TRAVEL
Worries about the current geopolitical strife in the Ukraine go far above how it affects travel, but we also know that many people have spring and summer trips planned and are wondering, “Is it still safe to go to Europe?” The current opinion of most travel experts is “yes.”
Russia and Ukraine are obviously “Do Not Travel” destinations, and travelers should avoid any countries that border Ukraine or Belarus, but currently, we are not recommending anyone cancel trips to Western European / NATO countries like France, Italy, Spain or Portugal.
If you do intend to keep your travel plans, we have several tips for protecting your investment in the unfortunate case that things change to stay safe while traveling:
Whether it’s your sense of safety, worries over a new COVID surge or variant, or any of the more typical reasons that you may cancel a trip, having it insured is important. Even if you’re not worried about recouping travel costs (you’re using miles or staying with friends), we still recommend medical coverage: at least $50,000 of medical expense coverage plus medical evacuation benefits (make sure the policy specifically covers COVID). Travelers need to keep in mind that the medical evacuation of most travel insurance policies is only meant to get them to the “nearest adequate facility” in an emergency. Once they reach an “adequate” hospital, insurance will likely insist they stay there. That’s where a medical transport membership comes into play. Medjet gets members moved to hospitals at home regardless of “medical necessity” (even if they’re COVID positive). With a MedjetHorizon upgrade, Medjet members also have access to a 24/7 security line. This covers crisis response for political threat, disappearance, violent crime, natural disaster and more, with expert in-country response teams to help get you to safety.
(For U.S. residents, see here).
Stay informed on current news, follow the U.S. Department of State on Twitter and your destination’s consular Twitter for local news. U.S. citizens should enroll in S.T.E.P. (Safe Traveler Enrollment Program) so government officials know you’re in the area if there’s an emergency. MedjetHorizon members can also access security updates and assessments via the eTravel Alerts portal on the Member Resources page of our website.
Each country has different requirements and may now have different definitions of what “fully vaccinated” means. Research the entry requirements for countries you’re just passing through as well, and prepare all paperwork in advance. We have the Sherpa Trip Planning and Entry Requirements tool on the Member Resources page of our website to help our members with this.
Even though you may have only had to quarantine with COVID for 5-10 days, you can test positive for up to 12 weeks. As long as the “test negative to come home” rule is in effect for U.S. residents, you may need this document from a qualified physician to prove that you’ve recovered, are no longer contagious and are cleared to travel. There are several tele-med services that offer these specific letters or you can obtain one from your own physician (just make sure it incorporates all the appropriate dates, wording, and the physician’s license information).
Our COO once said in a USA Today article, “The number one piece of advice I have is to think through every single worst-case scenario, create a plan for how you’ll react, and make sure everyone in your travel party knows that plan (as well as at least one person at home).”
I’m a firm believer in a well-planned Plan B. Some of the most important things you can do are:
Travel is more complicated these days – and the ongoing conflict between the Ukraine and Russia is a top concern for would-be European travelers - but don’t let that deter you. Many experts are saying that now is the time to go, while crowds are still thinner, recovery deals still abound, anticipated fuel surcharges and airfare increases have not yet been drastic, and the dollar is still strong.
Accidents, illness and safety concerns can happen anywhere. Medjet can get you home. Save 30% - 45%.
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A new benefit for eligible E*TRADE clients
As a Reserved member, you now have complimentary access to exclusive benefits, including discounts from over 70 premium brands and curated lifestyle content.
By clicking “Continue” or continuing to use the website, you agree to the Terms and Conditions. An email with your login and password will be sent to your email address on file for your next visit.
You now have access to the Morgan Stanley Reserved Living & Giving program. An email with your login and password has been sent to your email address on file.
In the meantime, you can start exploring the complimentary offers and insights available to you.
As a Reserved member, you will have complimentary access to exclusive benefits, including discounts on cars, travel and luxury retail brands.
As a Reserved member, you will have complimentary access to exclusive benefits, including discounts on cars, travel and luxury retail brands.
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