As the United States reopens its borders, international travellers are preparing for emotional reunions
33 countries, including most of Asia and Europe, were banned from flying into the United States, and Mexico and Canada were restricted from crossing the border by land.
The lifting of travel restrictions imposed more than a year and a half ago at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic has prompted a wave of joyous anticipation among travellers.
Gail and Paul Chamberlain said they were eager to meet their daughter’s fiance in person as they prepared to fly to Los Angeles from London’s Heathrow Airport.
It’s been a long time since Gail Chamberlain had such a good time, she said. My bridesmaids and I are [going] wedding dress shopping. That was something I never expected to be able to accomplish with her.”
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It has always been open to US citizens and permanent residents. However, the restrictions on travel meant that tourists, business travellers, and family members could not enter.
More than a dozen countries, including China, India, and much of the rest of Europe, were barred from entering the United States via air, as well as Mexico and Canada.
There will be exceptions for children under 18 and those who are medically ineligible to be vaccinated, but foreign nationals must be fully vaccinated in order to enter the United States. Covid tests taken within the last three days are also required for those over the age of two.
Border crossers from Mexico or Canada will need proof of vaccination, but will not be tested for the disease. There was already heavy traffic on Monday morning at many land border crossings in both Canada and Mexico.
Fargo is located in North Dakota. Connor Giesbrecht drove from Winnipeg to Fargo on Monday. A later flight would take him to Orlando, where he would spend the weekend with his brother in college, via Chicago.
According to Giesbrecht, 21, a frequent shopper in the US before the pandemic, “With the border opening, it is much easier to see him,” Giesbrecht said. “Traveling to the United States by car rather than flying from Canada saves money. The reopening of the road has made travel much more convenient.”
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