#pre-entry PCR test

[travelmd]

5 Essential Bahrain Travel Restrictions for Indian Travelers

Traveling from India to Bahrain can be a captivating and enriching experience, but it's imperative to stay informed about the essential travel restrictions that can impact your journey. Understanding these regulations will ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the crucial travel restrictions for Indian travelers heading to Bahrain, providing you with all the details you need to navigate your travel plans effectively.

Visa Requirements and Application Process

Before planning your trip to Bahrain, securing the appropriate visa is a priority. Indian travelers need a visa to enter Bahrain, and the process involves several steps:

Types of Visas Available

Tourist Visa: This visa is ideal for short visits, typically for leisure or visiting family and friends.

Business Visa: If you are traveling for work-related purposes, a business visa is necessary.

Visit Visa: Issued for those visiting relatives or friends residing in Bahrain.

Application Process

The visa application process for Bahrain can be completed online or through a visa service provider. Here are the steps involved:

Online Application: Visit the Bahrain eVisa website and fill out the online application form.

Document Submission: Submit required documents, including a valid passport, passport-sized photographs, and a confirmed return ticket.

Payment: Pay the visa fee using a credit or debit card.

Approval: Wait for the visa approval notification, which is usually sent via email.

Print Visa: Once approved, print the eVisa and present it upon arrival in Bahrain.

Important Considerations

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry.

Keep a copy of your visa approval and all relevant documents during your travel.

COVID-19 Related Entry Requirements

The global pandemic has introduced new entry requirements to ensure the safety of travelers and residents. Indian travelers must adhere to the following COVID-19 protocols:

Pre-Travel Testing

PCR Test: A negative PCR test result is mandatory for entry into Bahrain. The test should be taken no more than 72 hours before departure.

Test Verification: Carry a printed copy of the test result, preferably in English, and ensure it includes a QR code for verification.

Vaccination Requirements

Approved Vaccines: Bahrain recognizes vaccines approved by the World Health Organization (WHO). Ensure you are fully vaccinated with an approved vaccine.

Vaccination Certificate: Carry a vaccination certificate as proof of immunization. The certificate should be in English and include your personal details.

On-Arrival Testing and Quarantine

Testing: Travelers may be required to undergo additional PCR testing upon arrival at Bahrain International Airport.

Quarantine: Depending on the test results and vaccination status, quarantine measures may apply. Follow the guidelines provided by Bahraini health authorities.

Health and Safety Regulations

Bahrain prioritizes the health and safety of its residents and visitors. Indian travelers should be aware of the following regulations:

Health Insurance

Mandatory Health Insurance: Travelers must have valid health insurance that covers COVID-19 treatment and other medical emergencies.

Coverage Proof: Carry proof of health insurance coverage during your stay in Bahrain.

Hygiene Protocols

Mask Mandates: Wearing masks in public places and adhering to social distancing norms is mandatory.

Sanitization: Frequent hand sanitization and the use of hand sanitizers are encouraged.

Health Declaration Form

Submission: Complete a health declaration form before arrival, which can be found on the Bahrain eVisa portal or the airline's website.

Details: Provide accurate health information and travel history to ensure a swift entry process.

Travel Restrictions and Prohibited Items

Understanding the Bahrain travel restrictions and items prohibited for entry into Bahrain is crucial for a smooth journey:

Restricted and Prohibited Items

Narcotics and Drugs: The importation of narcotics and certain medications is strictly prohibited. Carry prescriptions for any essential medications.

Weapons and Firearms: Importing weapons, firearms, and related items is illegal without prior authorization.

Cultural and Religious Sensitivities: Avoid carrying materials that might be considered offensive to Bahrain's cultural and religious values.

Customs Regulations

Duty-Free Allowance: Familiarize yourself with the duty-free allowances for items such as tobacco, alcohol, and personal electronics.

Declaration: Declare any items exceeding the duty-free limits to customs officials upon arrival.

Currency Regulations and Financial Considerations

Managing your finances during your trip to Bahrain is vital. Here are the key financial considerations:

Currency Exchange

Local Currency: The Bahraini Dinar (BHD) is the official currency. It's advisable to exchange some currency before your trip or upon arrival.

Exchange Services: Currency exchange services are available at the airport, banks, and authorized exchange centers.

Banking and Payment Methods

Credit and Debit Cards: Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted. Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any transaction issues.

ATMs: ATMs are readily available in urban areas. Ensure your card is compatible with international transactions.

Financial Declarations

Cash Limit: Declare any amount exceeding BHD 10,000 (or equivalent in other currencies) to customs authorities.

Conclusion

Navigating the travel restrictions for Indian travelers to Bahrain requires careful preparation and adherence to regulations. By understanding the visa requirements, COVID-19 protocols, health and safety measures, travel restrictions, and currency regulations, you can ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey. Stay informed, follow the guidelines, and enjoy your visit to the vibrant and culturally rich kingdom of Bahrain.

[globaltravelclinics]

Travel Convenience with Covid Testing Services

Traveling opens doors to new experiences and adventures, but it's essential to prioritize safety and health along the journey. As travel norms evolve, the necessity for Covid testing before and after trips has become paramount. Finding reliable Covid testing services tailored to travelers' needs can be a game-changer. Here's why and where you can access these services seamlessly.

Convenience at Your Fingertips

Gone are the days of lengthy queues and inconvenient testing appointments. Travelers now have access to Covid testing services designed with their mobility in mind. These services offer flexibility in scheduling, often providing same-day or next-day appointments to accommodate tight travel itineraries.

Accessible Locations

Convenience is key, and travel Covid testing centers are strategically located in areas frequented by travelers. Airports, city centers, and even some hotels have partnered with medical facilities to offer on-site testing services. This accessibility ensures that travelers can easily incorporate testing into their pre-travel preparations without disrupting their plans.

Variety of Testing Options

One size does not fit all when it comes to Covid testing. Travelers can choose from a range of testing options to suit their needs and destination requirements. Rapid antigen tests, PCR tests, and antibody tests are among the choices available, each offering different levels of accuracy and turnaround times.

Certification and Compliance

Many countries and airlines require proof of a negative Covid test for entry or boarding. Travelers can rest assured that testing services for travel purposes provide the necessary documentation and certification to meet these requirements. This ensures smooth passage through airports and borders without unnecessary delays or complications.

Peace of Mind for Travelers

Above all, access to reliable Covid testing services offers peace of mind to travelers. By knowing their Covid status before embarking on a journey, travelers can make informed decisions to protect themselves and others. Whether for personal reassurance or to comply with travel regulations, these services empower travelers to navigate the current landscape with confidence.

In conclusion, COVID testing services tailored for travelers provide a vital resource in today's dynamic travel environment. With convenience, accessibility, and reliability at the forefront, these services ensure that travelers can focus on the joy of exploration while prioritizing safety and well-being.

[xtruss]

Mass Surveillance Technologies Put in Place During Pandemic Aren’t Going Away

Mass surveillance technologies put in place to protect public health during the COVID-19 pandemic haven't gone away. Instead, they've been expanded in an effort to exact worldwide social control.

— By Dr. Joseph Mercola | January 13, 2023

Story at a Glance:

An investigation by The Associated Press (AP) reveals pandemic-era mass surveillance technologies are being utilized as instruments of control.

In China, COVID-19 QR codes have been used to restrict movement, protests and other forms of dissent.

In Israel, the Shin Bet security agency used COVID-19 contact tracing technology to send text messages accusing innocent people of acts of violence.

There is fear that COVID-19 mass surveillance technologies will become a measure for widespread social control in which health data, housing information, financial profiles and more are used to create a comprehensive profile of each individual on earth.

The solution to opting out of the madness and protecting your personal privacy and liberties as much as possible is not to voluntarily give up your control and information.

Much like air travel was fundamentally changed post-9/11 — justified by national security and the “war on terror” — the world is now profoundly different than its pre-COVID-19 state. Freedoms taken for granted in 2019 were abruptly taken away in 2020, again justified by national security and public health.

But now, even with COVID-19 neutralized, technologies supposedly put in place to monitor and track the virus haven’t gone away.

On the contrary, they’re still being used and expanded throughout the world, revealing that mass monitoring of the global population wasn’t about COVID-19 after all but something much bigger, with the potential to eliminate freedom as we know it.

COVID-19 Technologies Being Used For Control

A year-plus investigation by The Associated Press reveals a concerning trend worldwide in which pandemic-era mass surveillance technologies are being utilized as instruments of control.

“In the pandemic’s bewildering early days, millions worldwide believed government officials who said they needed confidential data for new tech tools that could help stop coronavirus’ spread. In return, governments got a firehose of individuals’ private health details, photographs that captured their facial measurements and their home addresses,” AP noted.

Now individuals are finding that data is being used against them — restricting travel and activism, in law enforcement cases and even being shared with spy agencies.

As John Scott-Railton with internet watchdog Citizen Lab told AP, “Any intervention that increases state power to monitor individuals has a long tail and is a ratcheting system. Once you get it, is very unlikely it will ever go away.”

Surveillance in China Used to Stifle Dissent

In China, citizens were required to install cellphone apps that produce QR codes depending on health status. A green result, based on PCR test results, allows a person to move about freely while a yellow or red result restricted travel or required home confinement.

Following widespread demonstrations, the country stated it would no longer enforce national-level health codes to open up travel between provinces.

But Beijing was still requiring local codes for admittance into restaurants, gyms, offices and more. At times over the last three years, entry to a supermarket could be restricted unless a green code was presented, and residents could be quarantined if they were a close contact to someone who tested positive for COVID-19.

The AP investigation, supported by the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting, also revealed that the government used COVID-19 codes to stop dissent:

“In early September, former wealth manager Yang Jiahao bought a train ticket to Beijing, where he planned to lodge various complaints with the central government.

“The night before, a woman he described as a handler invited him to dinner. Handlers are usually hired by state security as part of ‘stability maintenance’ operations and can require people to meet or travel when authorities worry they could cause trouble.

“Yang had a meal with the handler, and the next morning Guangzhou health authorities reported a COVID-19 case less than a kilometer from where they dined, he said.

“Based on city regulations, Yang’s code should have turned yellow, requiring him to take a few COVID tests to show he was negative.

“Instead, the app turned red, even though tests showed that he didn’t have COVID. Yang was ordered to quarantine and a paper seal was placed on his door.”

In another example, bank customers who were unable to access their online bank accounts attempted to travel to Zhengzhou to protest.

When they arrived at the train station, their QR codes turned red and they were escorted by police to quarantine in the basement.

In all 1,317 people traveling to the city to protest the banking commission received red codes — picked up at the high-speed rail train station, the airport and the highway.

Israel’s Shin Bet Security ‘Repurposing’ Surveillance Tech

A similar trend is occurring in Israel, where the Shin Bet security agency repurposed phone surveillance technology used to monitor militants for COVID-19 contact tracing.

It’s since been repurposed again and has sent text messages accusing innocent people of acts of violence during a period of unrest in May 2021 at the Al-Aqsa Mosque and vowing, “We will hold you accountable.”

Majd Ramlawi was among those who received the text. He’s a barista at a coffee shop outside the mosque compound, an area peppered with security cameras. “It’s like the government is in your bag,” Ramlawi told the AP. “When you move, the government is with you with this phone.”

AP reported:

“The Shin Bet’s domestic use of the technology has generated an uproar over privacy and civil liberties within Israel, as well as questions about its accuracy. The Ministry of Communications, which oversees Israel’s telecommunications companies, refused a request seeking further details submitted for the AP by the Movement for Freedom of Information, a nonprofit that frequently works with media organizations.

“Gil Gan-Mor, an attorney with the nonprofit Association for Civil Rights in Israel, estimates that hundreds of Arabs in Jerusalem received the threatening message during the unrest and said the mass text message blast was unprecedented. ‘You cannot just say to people, ‘We are watching you … and we will get revenge,’ he said. ‘You cannot use this tool to frighten people. If you have something against someone, you can put them on trial.’”

Surveillance Overreach is a Global Problem

The AP obtained documents via the Freedom of Information Act, revealing that countries around the globe are engaging in mass surveillance of their citizens.

Mexico — In the Mexico City suburb Huixquilucan, a surveillance tool was implemented during the pandemic that transmits location, live video and audio of emergency callers to authorities. The technology was said to be necessary for public safety.

Pakistan — The country used military spyware and intelligence services to create an app that identified people infected with COVID-19 as well as those nearby. The Radius Alert function was criticized for privacy violations and leaving users vulnerable to tracking and cyberattacks.

South Africa — Authorities used technology developed to track wildlife poachers for pandemic contract tracing. Movement restrictions were enforced and “smart policing” technologies, including facial recognition and automatic license plate scanners, were implemented in certain cities.

Indonesia — The Health Ministry’s eHAC app collected passport numbers, government IDs and COVID-19 testing status from users as a requirement for travel to or within Indonesia. Data from 1.3 million people on the app was left exposed to potential fraud on an open server.

Singapore — Data collected by Singapore’s Trace Together COVID-19 app is available to law enforcement to investigate certain crimes designated serious offenses.

In India, meanwhile, facial recognition technologies were used to enforce mask mandates, with police taking pictures of people not wearing the masks, or wearing them incorrectly.

Such technologies have been rapidly expanded since the pandemic, and now a patrolling officer can randomly scan a person’s face in public and use an app to check for any past criminal activity.

According to the Associated Press (AP):

“[Hyderabad] Police Commissioner C.V. Anand said the city has spent hundreds of millions of dollars in recent years on patrol vehicles, CCTV cameras, facial recognition and geo-tracking applications and several hundred facial recognition cameras, among other technologies powered by algorithms or machine learning.

“Inside Hyderabad’s Command and Control Center, officers showed an AP reporter how they run CCTV camera footage through facial recognition software that scans images against a database of offenders … Officers decide who they deem suspicious, stoking fears among privacy advocates, some Muslims and members of Hyderabad’s lower-caste communities.”

Apps in Australia were also implemented to collect data and notify people if they were in the vicinity of someone who tested positive for COVID-19. But the data was later collected by intelligence agencies.

At the local level, citizens used a check-in app that would notify them if a COVID-19 outbreak occurred in their area. But law enforcement used the data for criminal investigations and contact tracing.

There is fear that the technologies will become a measure for widespread social control, in which health data, housing information, financial profiles and more are used to create a comprehensive profile of each individual on earth.

“Surveillance today is being posed as a technological panacea to large social problems in India, which has brought us very close to China,” Apar Gupta, executive director of the New Delhi-based Internet Freedom Foundation, told AP.

“There is no law. There are no safeguards. And this is general purpose deployment of mass surveillance.”

Pandemic Accelerated Mass Collection of Data in U.S.

In 2020, the U.S. gave $24.9 million to data analytics software company Palantir Technologies to support the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ COVID-19 response. AP reported:

“Documents obtained by the immigrant rights group Just Futures Law under the Freedom of Information Act and shared with the AP showed that federal officials contemplated how to share data that went far beyond COVID-19.

“The possibilities included integrating ‘identifiable patient data,’ such as mental health, substance use and behavioral health information from group homes, shelters, jails, detox facilities and schools.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also purchased cellphone location data in 2021. The “mobility insights” data revealed the daily locations of at least 20 million cellphones, courtesy of “device IDs” provided by data broker Cuebiq.

The ID can link information to individual cell phones and could be used to assess the effects of lockdowns and business closures, among many other more nefarious uses.

As Scott-Railton with Citizen Lab told AP, “What COVID did was accelerate state use of these tools and that data and normalize it, so it fit a narrative about there being a public benefit. Now the question is, are we going to be capable of having a reckoning around the use of this data, or is this the new normal?”

Are They Watching Your Every Move?

Measures toward authoritarian control and mass surveillance have been increasing worldwide, and in the U.S. Silicon Valley and the national security, state are now fused, according to one of my favorite independent journalists, Whitney Webb.

The decades-long wars against domestic dissidence have always involved technology like databases, and now it’s progressing to technology like facial recognition apps and the widespread use of cameras.

The Chinese government has given billions to the video surveillance company Hikvision, for instance, whose cameras have spread throughout the globe. Their low costs, courtesy of Chinese subsidizing, allowed them to outpace their competition, but concerns have risen that they’re ushering in a police state and may act as a “backdoor to Beijing.”

The company is a heavyweight in the industry, capable of producing 260,000 cameras daily, which works out to two for every three people born each day.

In Britain, 6 million cameras are in use — most of them provided by Hikvision — while the company’s presence has also increased, increasing from 70 U.K. staff members in 2018 to 128 in 2021.

Among Hikvision’s technologies widely used in Britain were heat detection cameras brought on to detect COVID-19 symptoms in 2020.

Worldwide, millions of Hikvision’s cameras are in use, concentrating in major cities, including more than 750,000 devices in the U.S.

Hikvision also has a U.S. subsidiary called EZVIZ, which is based in California and calls itself a “global smart home security brand” that creates a “safe, convenient and smart life for users through its intelligent devices, advanced AI technologies and cloud services.”

Many people have embraced the convenience of “smart” devices in their homes and wearable devices, but there are dangers in intertwining mass surveillance systems with daily living, whether they’re made by Hikvision or another company.

The solution to opting out of the madness, and protecting your personal privacy and liberties as much as possible, is to not voluntarily give up your control.

They’re counting on you taking your cellphone with you everywhere and adopting other forms of digital control, like vaccine passports, smart devices and central bank digital currencies.

When given the choice to opt-in to the latest privacy-sapping technology, don’t.

— Originally published by Mercola. | ChildrenHealthDefense.Com

[dcoglobalnews]

TAIWAN ENDS PRE-ENTRY PCR RULE FOR ALL ARRIVALS MONDAY - CECC

TAIWAN ENDS PRE-ENTRY PCR RULE FOR ALL ARRIVALS MONDAY – CECC

..Non-resident foreigners no longer have to take pre-flight PCR testTaiwan’s Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) on Monday (Aug. 15) ended its pre-flight polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test requirement for all inbound passengers.During a press conference on Aug. 10, CECC head Victor Wang (王必勝) announced Taiwan will end the requirement for all arriving passengers to submit proof of a negative…

[daisiesonafield-blog]

ATTENTION everyone attending ‘Love on Tour’ PORTLAND on Nov 8 2021

COVID-19 protocol:

EVERYONE must wear masks for the entirety of the show, at all times inside the venue and while standing in any admission lines.

You must provide proof of full COVID-19 immunization OR

Provide proof of a negative COVID-19 diagnostic test within 48-hours prior to entering the venue.

Also, bring appropriate ID matching the name on your COVID-19 documentation.

Acceptable as proof of vaccination: •    A CDC-issued vaccination card including the name of the person vaccinated, the type of vaccination provided and the date that the last dose was administered. •    A digital or printed photo of a CDC-issued vaccination card.

Acceptable as proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR or lab-based rapid test: •    Digital or printed photo of negative COVID-19 PCR test that includes name of ticketed fan. •    Digital or printed photo of negative rapid test result with date/time stamp and name of ticketed fan.

OR

Speed up entry:

Check in online using the new RQ Check-In by uploading your vaccination card or your negative test results. •    You will receive a green checkmark to show vaccine verification. •    You will receive a blue checkmark to show negative test verification.

Simply show your checkmark to the guest attendant at the doors for entry.

COMPLETE CHECK-IN

You will NOT be allowed into Harry’s show (regardless of age) without proof of vaccination OR proof of negative COVID-19 test. Yes, even if you have a ticket.

For more details click here.

General admission (Cherry & Watermelon pit tickets):

Guests are not permitted on campus before 8am.

GA entry A21/to the right of the Rip City sign on the South end of Campus

Overnight camping on Rose Quarter property is prohibited and guests will be escorted off property.

Show at the Moda Center building. Campus map here.

Details here and here.

Door opening times:

Doors open at 6PM. Show starts at 8PM. Ends aprox. at 11PM.

Show is at the Moda Center building. Campus map here.

Here are important policies:

No cameras, video, or audio recording will be permitted during the show. Non-professional cameras (no SLR or DSLR cameras) without detachable lenses are permitted in the arena for Rose Quarter events, as long as no flash is used. Professional photography, video, & audio recording, tripods, iPads, tablets and selfie sticks are strictly prohibited. This policy will be strictly enforced and management reserves the right to deny any device at their discretion.

Laptops or tablets are not allowed.

Outside food and beverage are not allowed.

No fruits or vegetables (no kiwis or watermelons).

No Beach balls/inflatable items

Coolers, beverages (in any type of container) are not allowed.

Weapons/chains, Mace or pepper spray are not allowed.

There is no reentry

Purchase pre-paid parking for $25 CLICK HERE.

Show is at the Moda Center building. Campus map here.

For a complete list of policies and more details, as well as prohibited items click here and here.

Bag Policy

Only medical bags, children’s bags and clutches no larger than 5×8″ are allowed.

All bags must go through x-ray machines at specific ADA entrances.

All other bags are prohibited.

A contactless bag check will be available on Rose Quarter commons for $5/bag.

For more details click here.

Banners, signs and flag policy:

For events that allow signs, signs must be handheld, holdable by one person, and may not obstruct the view of other guests.  

Signs must be germane to the event, must not be commercial or political in nature, obscene, or cause any disturbance to other guests.

Poles, sticks, or any apparatus to display signs are prohibited, and there may not be any items attached to the sign. 

Signs may not be temporarily or permanently affixed to, or displayed on, any Rose Quarter structure, including through electronic or projected means.

Rose Quarter Management reserves the right to confiscate or remove any sign from the Rose Quarter.

For more details about signs click here

Merch Shop:

Fans can shop early for mech in Portland on Sunday, Nov 7 from 12PM – 7PM at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum, 300 N Winning Way (front of main entrance).

Masks required while shopping.

All purchases must be card only (Apple/Google Pay accepted).

Merch will be available on the day of the show too.

Details here.

For additional questions please call the arena at (503) 235-8771. Contact them here. Check their twitter here. You can also access their website.

[itakelotsofpictures-blog]

No Prep Left

Jen and I are sitting in the living room (the old one, not the new one) and I’m letting my mind wander. Where is it wandering to? Where do you think? I went for my pre-surgery Covid PCR test today. I got an email saying that I had a new entry in my patient portal. I don’t speak hospital but I think it says the results were negative. So what’s the significance of that? Apart from not having…

[healthclinicslimited]

Travel testing guide for the UK’s most popular holiday destinations

PCR? Lateral Flow? 48 or 72 hours? Quarantine or no quarantine?  Each country has its own Covid-19 travel rules to follow – both before you leave the UK and on arrival. We’ve listed the key requirements for some of the most popular holiday destinations from the UK.

The information in this guide is reviewed and updated regularly. Last updated: 07/09/21.

Please ensure you review the Foreign Office guidance and government and tourist websites for your destination. The arrival information is for entry into England only. If you are travelling to Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, please check here as the requirements may be different.

Covid19 health Clinic provides accurate, affordable & reliable private Covid tests to the public at various walk-in locations across the UK. Book online your private Covid test in UK Today!

Jump to Country:

Croatia

France

Germany

Greece

Italy

Malta

Portugal

Spain

USA

Croatia

: Green Watchlist

Who can enter Croatia ?

Croatia is open for travellers from all countries with various entry requirements.

Departure test required ?

Yes – for all travellers aged 12 years and over, regardless of whether they are fully vaccinated or not.

No – for all children under the age of 12 years accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Which departure tests are accepted?

Lateral Flow Antigen Fit to Fly Tests and PCR Fit to Fly Tests.

Testing window :

For PCR: 72 hours before travel.

For Lateral Flow Antigen: 48 hours before travel.

Quarantine on arrival ?

No.

Required arrival documentation ?

A completed Traveller Health Declaration (completed 24 hours before arrival)

Pre-return test required ?

Yes – for everyone aged 11 or over.

Testing window :

Within 3 days before arriving in England.

Which pre-return tests are accepted ?

Take a Return Antigen test abroad with you or find a local testing centre in Croatia.

Arrival tests & quarantine ?

Croatia is on the green watchlist.

Everyone entering England from a green list country does not need to quarantine, but must take a PCR test on arrival day 2. The day of arrival in England = day 0.

More information ? https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/croatia

France

: Amber List

Who can enter France ?

All fully vaccinated travellers from the UK. Non-fully vaccinated travellers from the UK must give an essential reason to be allowed to enter France.

Departure test required ?

No – for fully vaccinated adults.

Yes – for children aged 12 and over travelling with fully vaccinated adults.

Yes – for travellers who are not fully vaccinated but are allowed to enter France for essential reasons.

Which departure tests are accepted?

Lateral Flow Antigen Fit to Fly Tests and PCR Fit to Fly Tests.

Testing window :

48 hours before travel.

Quarantine on arrival ?

No – for fully vaccinated adults and accompanying over 12s.

Yes – 7 days isolation for not fully vaccinated adults and accompanying over 12s.

Required arrival documentation ?

A completed Sworn Statement.

Vaccination Proof: NHS Covid Pass for travellers from England and Wales

NHS letters for travellers from Scotland

Covid certificate for travellers from Northern Ireland

Pre-return test required ?

Yes – for everyone aged 11 or over.

Testing window :

Within 3 days before arriving in England.

Which pre-return tests are accepted ?

Take a Return Antigen test abroad with you or find a local testing centre in France.

Arrival tests & quarantine ?

France is on the amber travel list.

Everyone aged 11 or over entering England from an amber list country who have been fully vaccinated in the UK, US or EU will need to take a PCR test on arrival day 2. Children aged 5-10 will also need to test on day 2. The day of arrival in England = day 0.

Anyone aged 18+ entering England from an amber list country who hasn’t been fully vaccinated in the UK, US or EU will need to quarantine at home for 10 days and take two PCR tests on arrival day 2 and day 8, with the option to reduce the quarantine period by taking an additional PCR test on day 5.

The quarantine requirement has been lifted for all under 18s.

Germany

: Green List

Who can enter Germany ?

Germany is open for Citizens and Residents, Family Members, and Diplomats. UK residents may only enter Germany if they are serving an important role, there is an urgent need to travel, or if they are fully vaccinated.

Departure test required ?

No – for fully vaccinated adults.

No – for travellers who have proof of recovery from Covid-19.

Yes – for travellers who are not fully vaccinated.

N.B. Minors between the ages of 12-17 are only allowed to enter Germany if they have an urgent need or if they have been fully vaccinated.

Which departure tests are accepted?

Lateral Flow Antigen Fit to Fly Tests and PCR Fit to Fly Tests.

Testing window :

For PCR: 72 hours before travel.

For Lateral Flow Antigen: 48 hours before travel.

Quarantine on arrival ?

Yes – for travellers arriving in Germany from a high-risk area (e.g. the UK) have to quarantine for 10 days on entering Germany. Travellers arriving in Germany after having been in a high-risk area can end their home quarantine early if they submit proof of vaccination or proof of recovery via the entry portal. Alternatively, from day 5 they also have the option of doing a “test to release” and submitting proof of a negative test.

Yes – for children under the age of 12 years. 10 days quarantine on arrival but can end early by presenting a vaccination / recovery certificate. Alternatively, quarantine can be ended early with a negative Covid-19 test on the fifth day after entry.

Required arrival documentation ?

A completed Digital Registration on Entry.

Vaccination Proof: NHS vaccination certificate.

Pre-return test required ?

Yes – for everyone aged 11 or over.

Testing window :

Within 3 days before arriving in England.

Which pre-return tests are accepted ?

Take a Return Antigen test abroad with you or find a local testing centre in Germany.

Arrival tests & quarantine ?

Germany is on the green list.

Everyone entering England from a green list country does not need to quarantine but must take a PCR test on arrival day 2. The day of arrival in England = day 0.

Greece

: Amber List

Who can enter Greece ?

Greece is allowing entry for EU and Schengen citizens, and for individuals residing permanently in the US, EU, and Schengen states, and certain other countries.

Departure test required ?

No – for fully vaccinated adults.

No – for travellers who have proof of recovery from Covid-19 (a positive PCR result dated 30-180 days before travel).

Yes – for travellers who are not fully vaccinated.

Yes – for children aged 12 or over.

Which departure tests are accepted?

PCR Fit to Fly Tests only.

Testing window :

72 hours before travel.

Quarantine on arrival ?

No.

N.B. You may have to take a rapid Covid-19 test on arrival in Greece, with a quarantine in a hotel for at least 10 days if positive. You may also have to self-isolate if other passengers on your flight or ferry test positive for Covid-19.

Required arrival documentation ?

A completed Passenger Locator Form.

Vaccination Proof: NHS Covid Pass for travellers from England and Wales

NHS letters for travellers from Scotland

Covid certificate for travellers from Northern Ireland

Pre-return test required ?

Yes – for everyone aged 11 or over.

Testing window :

Within 3 days before arriving in England.

Which pre-return tests are accepted ?

Take a Return Antigen test abroad with you or find a local testing centre in Greece.

Arrival tests & quarantine ?

Greece is on the amber travel list.

Everyone aged 11 or over entering England from an amber list country who have been fully vaccinated in the UK, US or EU will need to take a PCR test on arrival day 2. Children aged 5-10 will also need to test on day 2. The day of arrival in England = day 0.

Anyone aged 18+ entering England from an amber list country who hasn’t been fully vaccinated in the UK, US or EU will need to quarantine at home for 10 days and take two PCR tests on arrival day 2 and day 8, with the option to reduce the quarantine period by taking an additional PCR test on day 5.

The quarantine requirement has been lifted for all under 18s.

Italy

: Amber List

Who can enter Italy ?

Italy is open for travellers arriving from within the EU and Schengen member countries, as well as those arriving from countries defined as safe by the EU.

Departure test required ?

Yes – for all travellers over the age of 6 years.

Which departure tests are accepted?

Lateral Flow Antigen Fit to Fly Tests and PCR Fit to Fly Tests.

Testing window :

48 hours before entry to Italy.

Quarantine on arrival ?

No – for fully vaccinated travellers. Yes – for unvaccinated travellers and those arriving without proof of vaccination and a negative test will be required to self-isolate for 5 days.

N.B. Travellers will need to contact the regional health office (ASL) to inform them where you will be completing the quarantine period as you will be under surveillance. A test will be required at the end of the 5 day period.

Children under the age of 6, from the UK, do not need to test but are not exempt from self-isolation.

Required arrival documentation ?

A completed online digital form.

Pre-return test required ?

Yes – for everyone aged 11 or over.

Testing window :

Within 3 days before arriving in England.

Which pre-return tests are accepted ?

Take a Return Antigen test abroad with you or find a local testing centre in Italy.

Arrival tests & quarantine ?

Italy is on the amber travel list.

Everyone aged 11 or over entering England from an amber list country who have been fully vaccinated in the UK, US or EU will need to take a PCR test on arrival day 2. Children aged 5-10 will also need to test on day 2. The day of arrival in England = day 0.

Anyone aged 18+ entering England from an amber list country who hasn’t been fully vaccinated in the UK, US or EU will need to quarantine at home for 10 days and take two PCR tests on arrival day 2 and day 8, with the option to reduce the quarantine period by taking an additional PCR test on day 5.

The quarantine requirement has been lifted for all under 18s.

Malta

: Green List

Who can enter Malta ?

Anyone aged 12 and over can travel to Malta as long as they hold a certificate of full vaccination for an EMA-approved COVID 19 Vaccine, including EU Digital COVID Certificates, Maltese and NHS (UK) certificates.

Departure test required ?

No – for fully vaccinated adults.

Yes – for children aged 5-11 travelling with fully vaccinated adults.

N.B. Children aged 12-18 will only be able to travel if they have proof of full vaccination.

Which departure tests are accepted?

Lateral Flow Antigen Fit to Fly Tests and PCR Fit to Fly Tests.

Testing window :

For PCR: 72 hours before travel.

For Lateral Flow Antigen: 48 hours before travel.

Quarantine on arrival ?

No.

Required arrival documentation ?

A completed online Passenger Locator Form

Vaccination Proof: NHS Covid Pass for travellers from England and Wales

NHS letters for travellers from Scotland

Covid certificate for travellers from Northern Ireland

Pre-return test required ?

Yes – for everyone aged 11 or over.

Testing window :

Within 3 days before arriving in England.

Which pre-return tests are accepted ?

Take a Return Antigen test abroad with you or find a local testing centre in Malta.

Arrival tests & quarantine ?

Malta is on the green list.

Everyone entering England from a green list country does not need to quarantine but must take a PCR test on arrival day 2. The day of arrival in England = day 0.

Portugal (including the Azores)

: Amber List N.B. Madeira is on the green watchlist. The Azores will move to the green list at 4am on Monday 30th August.

Who can travel to Portugal ?

All travellers from the UK can enter Portugal, however, there are entry restrictions. If you travel to mainland Portugal from the UK, you must quarantine for 14 days unless you can prove you are fully vaccinated with an EU-approved vaccination. Children under 18 years travelling with a fully vaccinated adult do not have to quarantine.

Departure test required ?

No – for fully vaccinated travellers.

Yes – for all travellers who are not fully-vaccinated aged 12 and over.

Which departure tests are accepted?

Lateral Flow Antigen Fit to Fly Tests and PCR Fit to Fly Tests.

Testing window :

For PCR: 72 hours before travel.

For Lateral Flow Antigen: 48 hours before travel.

Quarantine on arrival ?

No – for fully vaccinated travellers.

No – for children under 18 years old, as long as they travel accompanied by their parents, or a guardian who is fully vaccinated.

Yes – for 14 days, for travellers who are not fully vaccinated.

Required arrival documentation ?

All travellers: a completed Passenger Locator Card.

Vaccination Proof: NHS Covid Pass for travellers from England and Wales

NHS letters for travellers from Scotland

Covid certificate for travellers from Northern Ireland 3. For unvaccinated travellers: a completed Isolation Form.

Pre-return test required ?

Yes – for everyone aged 11 or over.

Testing window :

Within 3 days before arriving in England.

Which pre-return tests are accepted ?

Take a Return Antigen test abroad with you or find a local testing centre in Portugal.

Arrival tests & quarantine ?

Portugal is on the amber travel list.

Everyone aged 11 or over entering England from an amber list country who have been fully vaccinated in the UK, US or EU will need to take a PCR test on arrival day 2. Children aged 5-10 will also need to test on day 2. The day of arrival in England = day 0.

Anyone aged 18+ entering England from an amber list country who hasn’t been fully vaccinated in the UK, US or EU will need to quarantine at home for 10 days and take two PCR tests on arrival day 2 and day 8, with the option to reduce the quarantine period by taking an additional PCR test on day 5.

The quarantine requirement has been lifted for all under 18s.

Madeira is on the green watchlist. The Azores are being added to the green list on Monday 30th August. If you arrive before 4am on 30th August from the Azores, please follow the rules above. If arriving after 4am 30th August, follow the rules below.

Everyone entering England from a green watchlist country does not need to quarantine but must take a PCR test on arrival day 2. The day of arrival in England = day 0.

Spain (including the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands)

: Amber list

Who can travel to Spain ?

Spain is open for travellers arriving from within the EU and Schengen member countries, as well as those arriving from certain other third countries listed in the Annex or for travellers with valid vaccination certificates.

Departure test required ?

No – for fully vaccinated adults.

Yes – for children aged 12 and over travelling with fully vaccinated adults.

Yes – for travellers who are not fully vaccinated.

Which departure tests are accepted?

PCR Fit to Fly Tests only.

Testing window :

72 hours before travel.

Quarantine on arrival ?

No.

Required arrival documentation ?

A completed Health Control Form (completed no more than 48 hours before travelling to Spain by air or sea)

Vaccination Proof: NHS Covid Pass for travellers from England and Wales

NHS letters for travellers from Scotland

Covid certificate for travellers from Northern Ireland

Pre-return test required ?

Yes – for everyone aged 11 or over.

Testing window :

Within 3 days before arriving in England.

Which pre-return tests are accepted ?

Take a Return Antigen test abroad with you or find a local testing centre in Spain.

Arrival tests & quarantine ?

Spain (including the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands) is on the amber travel list.

Everyone aged 11 or over entering England from an amber list country who have been fully vaccinated in the UK, US or EU will need to take a PCR test on arrival day 2. Children aged 5-10 will also need to test on day 2. The day of arrival in England = day 0.

Anyone aged 18+ entering England from an amber list country who hasn’t been fully vaccinated in the UK, US or EU will need to quarantine at home for 10 days and take two PCR tests on arrival day 2 and day 8, with the option to reduce the quarantine period by taking an additional PCR test on day 5.

The quarantine requirement has been lifted for all under 18s.

USA

: Amber list

Who can travel to the USA ?

It is not possible for most British nationals to enter the USA if they have been in the UK, Ireland, Schengen zone, and a number of other countries, within the previous 14 days. US citizens and permanent residents of the USA, certain specified close family members, and certain other limited categories of visas holders (such as UN staff and diplomats) are exempt. They will still be able to enter the USA, subject to normal entry requirements.

Departure test required ?

Yes – for all travellers.

Which departure tests are accepted?

The USA requires pre-departure tests to meet the requirements stated by the CDC. Tests can be either antigen tests or PCR tests. Self-tests (e.g. at home test kits) are acceptable if they include a telehealth service affiliated with the manufacturer of the test that provides real-time supervision remotely through an audio and video connection.

Testing window :

No more than 3 days before departure.

Quarantine on arrival ?

No – for fully vaccinated travellers with an FDA-authorised vaccine. Travellers must complete a viral test (e.g. Antigen or PCR test) 3 to 5 days after travel.  

No – for those who have recovered from a documented case of Covid-19 within the last 3 months. These individuals should follow all requirements and recommendations for fully vaccinated travellers, with the exception of testing 3 to 5 days after travel.

Yes, for 7 days – for travellers who are not fully vaccinated. Unvaccinated travellers must complete a viral test (e.g. Antigen or PCR test) 3 to 5 days after travel.  

Required arrival documentation ?

Consult the US State Department website to determine which documents you will need.

Pre-return test required ?

Yes – for everyone aged 11 or over.

Testing window :

Within 3 days before arriving in England.

Which pre-return tests are accepted ?

Take a Return Antigen test abroad with you or find a local testing centre in the USA.

Arrival tests & quarantine ?

The USA  is on the amber travel list.

Everyone aged 11 or over entering England from an amber list country who have been fully vaccinated in the UK, US or EU will need to take a PCR test on arrival day 2. Children aged 5-10 will also need to test on day 2. The day of arrival in England = day 0.

Anyone aged 18+ entering England from an amber list country who hasn’t been fully vaccinated in the UK, US or EU will need to quarantine at home for 10 days and take two PCR tests on arrival day 2 and day 8, with the option to reduce the quarantine period by taking an additional PCR test on day 5.

The quarantine requirement has been lifted for all under 18s.

[travelmd]

10 Essential Tips for Indians Getting a Bahrain Visa on Arrival

Introduction

Bahrain, an enchanting kingdom in the Persian Gulf, offers a blend of rich history and modern charm. For Indians eager to explore this jewel, the Visa on Arrival (VoA) process is convenient and straightforward. However, a few essential tips can ensure a seamless experience. Here, we provide comprehensive insights to help you navigate the process efficiently.

1. Understand the Eligibility Criteria

Before planning your trip, it is crucial to verify your eligibility for Bahrain’s Visa on Arrival. Indian citizens are generally eligible, but certain conditions must be met:

Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry.

Return Ticket: Possess a confirmed return or onward ticket.

Accommodation Proof: Provide evidence of accommodation arrangements in Bahrain.

Sufficient Funds: Demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay.

2. Know the Visa Types Available

Bahrain offers several types of visas on arrival, each catering to different purposes:

Tourist Visa: Valid for stays up to 14 days.

Business Visa: Valid for short business trips.

Multiple Entry Visa: Suitable for frequent travelers, valid for a longer duration but with limited stay per visit.

Understanding the right visa type for your visit can prevent unnecessary complications.

3. Gather the Necessary Documents

Having all required documents ready is critical for a smooth VoA process. Essential documents include:

Completed Visa Application Form: Available at the airport or online for a pre-arrival application.

Passport: Original passport with at least six months validity.

Photographs: Recent passport-sized photographs as per specifications.

Travel Itinerary: Detailed travel plans including return tickets and hotel bookings.

Proof of Funds: Bank statements or other proof of sufficient funds.

4. Be Prepared for the Visa Fees

Visa fees vary depending on the visa type. Typically, fees can be paid in local currency or via credit card at the point of entry. Ensure you have the necessary amount ready:

Tourist Visa: Approximate fee is BD 5 (Bahraini Dinar).

Business Visa: Fees may vary based on the duration and number of entries.

It is advisable to check the latest fee structure on the official Bahrain immigration website before traveling.

5. Plan Your Arrival at Bahrain International Airport

Bahrain International Airport is well-equipped to handle the Visa on Arrival process efficiently. To avoid delays:

Arrive Early: Allow ample time for visa processing, especially during peak travel seasons.

Follow Signage: Follow the clearly marked signs directing you to the Visa on Arrival counters.

Have Documents Ready: Keep all documents and fees ready for inspection.

6. Stay Informed About COVID-19 Protocols

The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced additional entry requirements:

Vaccination Proof: Carry proof of vaccination as per Bahrain’s accepted vaccines.

PCR Test: Some travelers might need to present a negative PCR test taken within a specified timeframe before arrival.

Quarantine Requirements: Stay updated on any quarantine protocols that might be in place.

Check Bahrain’s Ministry of Health website for the latest travel advisories and health requirements.

7. Understand the Visa Extension Process

If you wish to extend your stay in Bahrain, you can apply for a visa extension:

Online Application: Submit an extension request online through Bahrain’s eVisa portal.

Immigration Office: Visit the Nationality, Passports, and Residence Affairs (NPRA) office.

Fee Payment: Pay the applicable extension fees.

Extensions are subject to approval, and it's advisable to apply well before your current visa expires.

8. Know the Customs Regulations

Being aware of Bahrain’s customs regulations can prevent any issues upon arrival:

Prohibited Items: Certain items such as drugs, firearms, and religiously offensive materials are prohibited.

Duty-Free Allowance: Familiarize yourself with the duty-free allowance limits for alcohol, tobacco, and other goods.

Declare Valuables: Declare any high-value items to avoid complications during departure.

9. Utilize Airport Services for Convenience

Bahrain International Airport offers various services to ease your travel:

Currency Exchange: Available within the airport premises for convenient currency conversion.

Wi-Fi Access: Free Wi-Fi services to stay connected.

Transportation Options: Taxis, car rentals, and public transport options are readily available.

Leveraging these services can make your arrival and stay more comfortable.

10. Contact Local Authorities for Assistance

In case of any difficulties, it’s essential to know whom to contact:

Immigration Office: For visa-related queries and extensions.

Indian Embassy: For consular assistance and support.

Tourist Information Centers: For guidance on local attractions and travel information.

Having these contacts handy ensures that help is available whenever needed.

Conclusion

Obtaining a Bahrain Visa on Arrival for Indian citizens is a straightforward process when adequately prepared. By understanding eligibility, gathering necessary documents, and staying informed about fees and protocols, you can enjoy a hassle-free entry into Bahrain. Make sure to keep abreast of any updates from official sources to ensure a smooth travel experience.

[puckbunnies101]

To all my Canadians, especially those in the Toronto area, what are you hearing about entering Canada right now?  

This is what I just read: Trudeau said in addition to the pre-boarding test Canada already requires, the government will be introducing mandatory PCR testing at the airport for people returning to Canada.“Travelers will then have to wait for up to three days at an approved hotel for their test results, at their own expense, which is expected to be more than $2000,” Trudeau said.“Those with negative test results will then be able to quarantine at home under significantly increased surveillance and enforcement.”

I also read: “We will also, in the coming weeks, be requiring nonessential travelers to show a negative test before entry at the land border with the US, and we are working to stand up additional testing requirements for land travel,” Trudeau said.Canada already requires those entering the country to self-isolate for 14 days and to present a negative COVID-19 test taken within three days before arrival.

Trying to figure out if I’m ever going to be able to return home without jumping through a million hoops.  Sounds like driving in makes the most sense - only needing a negative test prior to entry?

[travelcenter-uk]

Unvaccinated Brits Allowed to have Holidays in Portugal!

In light of the recent change in Coronavirus rules, unvaccinated Britons can now go on holidays in Portugal.

UK visitors aged 12 and over will only need to show proof of a negative PCR or rapid antigen coronavirus test result to enter the country.

Before this rule, travellers were required to show that they had been fully vaccinated with an EU-approved COVID-19 vaccine, including Pfizer, AstraZeneca, and Moderna, upon entry to mainland Portugal or they would have to quarantine for 14 days.

Covid PCR tests must be taken up to 72 hours before departure, or lateral flow tests up to 48 hours before. People must also complete a passenger locator card before they travel.

Travellers planning to have holidays in Portugal and visit one of the below Portuguese islands MUST show either a negative PCR test or a vaccine certificate to avoid a 14-day quarantine.

Azores

Madeira

However, they can have a free test on arrival if they agree to go into “prophylactic isolation” – a 12 to a 24-hour waiting period for the test result.

In the UK, Portugal is on the amber travel list & fully vaccinated people entering from the southern European country do not have to self-isolate.

However, a PCR test is needed three days before entering the UK & a PCR test two days after arriving.

Covid Traffic Light: What you should do when you return to England from these countries.

Main restrictions:

Red list: Hotel quarantine for 10 days & pre-departure tests, plus PCR test on days 2 and 8.

Amber list: Home-quarantine for 10 days & pre-departure tests, plus PCR test on days 2 and 8. “Test to release” option on day 5. Different rules apply for fully vaccinated people arriving from EU countries and the US.

Green list: Pre-departure test & PCR test on or before day 2.

You do not need to take a COVID-19 test or quarantine on arrival in England if you are travelling within the Common Travel Area.

Read More:- Unvaccinated Brits Allowed to have Holidays in Portugal!

This Article, Information & Images Source (copyright):- Travel Center UK Blog

[dogsliampaynedoesntinstagram]

Hi. Do you have any specific thoughts about venue’s COVID restrictions (I know certain venues have none…) for Harry’s shows?

I’m a Canadian (RIP my show, I would have sold my other tickets had it gone forward) with tickets to both NYC and LA. I’m very much uncertain that I’ll be attending… (starting august 9th, Ill be able to cross the land border (air never closed) as a double vaxxed person, we’ll see if it holds of course…)

For NYC: “All guests will be required to provide proof of full vaccination, meaning the day of your event is at least 14 days after your final vaccine dose. The only exception is for children under the age of 16, who may provide proof of a negative antigen or PCR COVID-19 test, or full vaccination, to attend a fully vaccinated event when accompanied by a vaccinated adult.” (The unvaccinated under 16s have to wear a mask.)

For LA: “All Guests will be required to confirm on the day of the event, prior to their entry into the Forum, that they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as of the date of the event or that they have had a pre-entry negative COVID-19 test* before entry into the Forum.”(As of right now in July 21, non vaccinated people have to wear a mask at all times and it’s recommended for vaccinated people.)

___

Does the 100% vaccinated in NYC make a difference for you? (As in it’s a better bet to not get infected?) I haven’t read anything that was 100% conclusive on transmission rates in vaccinated vs unvaccinated people, have you?

I obviously will decide for myself in the end (and there are other factors in play), but would you attend a show without restrictions (hello Las Vegas! From what I read), with LA type restrictions, or with NYC type restrictions?

I know ventilation is THE thing but there’s no way for me to check that… Would bringing myself a mini electric fan help or make it worse? Lol, I dk.

Thanks for your thoughts!

(I sent an ask several hours ago re: COVID restrictions for Harry shows (LA and NYC). Just to add, I was wrong about the border. It’s only opened on the Canadian side starting august 9th so double vaxxed Americans can come in but Canadians still can’t cross into the US by land. I didn’t want to misinform anyone.)

***************

Hi anon,

It's great that you're vaccinated anon.

To me, personally, the rules at the venue wouldn't make much difference. I think those sorts of rules are mostly for show, so that people to feel like the venue is safe.

There's a few reasons I think that, but the first is most fundamental: such requirements are not able to be enforced in a meaningful way. It would basically require more than doubling the staff that you need to check tickets to check vaccine status in a meaningful way (you're talking photo ID checks as well as making sure ). Venues that say they have these reqirements will end up waving people in. On top of that the documents are pretty easy to forge. (The popcast episode about the return of live shows invovled people describing both these experiences already going to shows in NY).

The vaccines do work very well, and as well as reducing severe disease and death (which is the main goal), fully vaccinated people have a reduced chance of catching the disease and are less likely to pass it on. You asked if I'd seen definitive information - I've seen some good studies about household attack rates of vaccinated vs unvaccinated people - but I can't find them now. What I remember was the risk was reduced, but there was still household transmission. The takeaway message I've got from what I read is that the risk is reduced, but it's still there. As for the test - testing lots of people will act as a screen to reduce the total number of people who have COVID - but there will always people who test negative on Thursday, but are infectious by Saturday).

So the key point is that while these rules may lessen the risk that someone with COVID-19 will be sitting next to you during a concert, they don't eliminate it, whatever the rules it's a very real risk.

*****************

What all this means is that no matter what rules a particular venue has, you are risking being exposed to COVID-19, by going to an arena concert. Rather than rely on venue rules, that are probably more theatre than anything else, I would accept that there is a risk (and decide if you want to take mitigating steps like mask wearing) - and think about the worst case scenario.

I assume that you don't have a medical conditions that suggest the vaccine might not be effective - people that do would probably not come to me for advice. So the vaccine will protect you if you do get COVID. So the two things to consider are you then infecting other people - and your own fear.

I don't know the situation where you are - but take the risks of infecting other people seriously. Are most people in your community vaccinated? Do you have particular people you see regularly who are vulnerable and/or unvaccinated? People are in wildly different situations - and I think it's only by thinking about your situation carefully that you can figure out what sort of risks are appropriate for your situation.

I have two more things to say about fear - a little contradictory. First of all respect your feelings and your fear. You'll figure out over time what feels safe and what doesn't

But also - you, like everyone else, are deeply influenced by cultural ideas about disease. And one of those cultural ideas is that people who get sick deserve it. That plays out in all sorts of ways in general - but in this pandemic it has meant people have overestimated the risk of things that are fun and joyous and underestimated the risk of things that are more mundane (I just read this article, which touched on some of those issues which I really liked) A lot of discussion of the arena tour I've seen suggested that an arena would be a different order of magnitude than anything else when it came to risk. I don't think there's any reason to think this is true. Singing in a place with lots of other people is obviously risky, but so are lots of jobs and going to the gym, and living with people. It's a risky thing to do, in a world where there are lots of thing that are risky - not exponentially more risky than anything else.

So to answer your question - if I had the option to go to one of Harry's concerts - then whether I'd go would depend on what other decisions I had made about how to navigate this part of the pandemic. If I was regularly doing things inside, with other people and without masks (whether that was eating out, or going to people's houses, going to the gym, or going to smaller events), then I'd think about going to Harry's concerts.

When I had to make those choices for myself, I was very cautious, and I wouldn't be doing most of those things in the UK at the moment if I was still there.

I know I'm very lucky that I don't have to make these decisions any more. I found them very anxiety inducing and upsetting that I did make them. I was always worried that I was being impossibly reckless and would get sick, but also that I wasn't taking the opportunities that I had to meet some of my needs.

You have time - New York and LA aren't until October. You can wait and see how you feel, and how the situation has changed in the next few weeks. Good luck making a decision. I hope that whatever you decide it's an easy decision and you sell your tickets easily/have a great time.

[swati8984]

Countries Open For Indian Tourists: Which Countries Indians Can Travel Now?

Tourists were restricted inside their houses for more than a year, but now all tourists present around the globe can view a twinkle of travelling possibilities. Let us read the article more to find out about the restrictions and when should one start making their vacation plans because the rays of hope do not seem much far down the lane!

Can Indians Start Travelling Again?

Yeah, they can!

Since then, normal worldwide travel in India has mostly started all over again. India has now eliminated all the testing needs for both vaccinated and unvaccinated tourists flying from various countries to India. Anyway now, Indians can freely fly and return without going through different procedures.

Countries Open For Indian Tourists Now

Numerous nations are now opening up to worldwide tourists, relying on various measures and testing requirements. This depends upon the destination individuals returning from.

Africa

(No quarantine needed)

Cape Verde 

It just needs a legal COVID vaccination certificate showcasing that you are fully vaccinated well. Also, a COVID recovery certificate showcases what you recouped from COVID more than 90 days before your journey. And a COVID RTPCR test should be done 72 hours before the departure or maybe an antigen test done 48 hours before the departure. Children till 11 years of age are exempted from these requirements.

Djibouti

 A negative RT PCR test is needed. Tourists should perform this particular test within 72 hours of the trip and 120 hours of arrival in Djibouti. On arrival, individuals will be needed to take another COVID test at the airport for which one should pay $30. Unvaccinated tourists will be isolated for a period of 10 days.

Ethiopia 

Tourists compulsorily must show proof of vaccination or maybe submit the negative RT PCR test report taken 72 hours before the departure from the country of India.

Kenya 

All tourists coming to Kenya should have a legal COVID negative RT PCR certificate performed within 96 hours before the trip. 

Mauritius

From now on, vaccinated tourists no longer require a negative RT PCR test before flying off to Mauritius. The test is just required on arrival in Mauritius.

Somalia 

Negative COVID test reports are now mandatory to enter Somalia. If individuals fail to show this report on arrival, then one will definitely have to waste all of the 14 days which is 2 weeks in quarantine at their own expense in a government-approved facility.

Zambia 

Fully vaccinated visitors are exempted from testing! The ones who won’t be able to show their vaccination certificate, mandatorily have to submit their RT-PCR test taken at least 72 hours before their arrival in Zambia.

The Americas & Caribbean

(No quarantine needed)

Bermuda 

All tourists to Bermuda aged above 2 years of age are needed to have an authorised Travel authorisation to enter Bermuda. All tourists aged more than 2 years of age must have a negative COVID test report before entering Bermuda and also they should post their negative report to their Travel Authorisation form. Fully vaccinated visitors should take a COVID NAAT test before their arrival, or an antigen test too before their arrival!

Brazil 

Tourists will have to showcase the proof of vaccination against COVID. Alternatively, individuals may showcase a negative antigen test performed within a day of boarding.

Canada

Pre-entry tests are no longer a need for any of the fully vaccinated tourists entering Canada by any means! Individuals still use ArriveCAN within the 72 hours they arrive in Canada.

Ecuador

A fulfilled Travel Health Declaration Card should be showcased on arrival! Also, tourists, who are considered to be more than 3 years of age, all have the option of either showcasing their COVID vaccination certificate or a negative RT PCR test report, performed 72 hours before boarding their flight.

Guatemala

Individuals require to present any one of the following-

COVID vaccination certificate proving the vaccine was allocated 2 weeks before the arrival.

A negative COVID test report was taken within 72 hours of the arrival.

Mexico

Mexico is open to tourists and there is no need to showcase a negative RT PCR test report on the arrival, anyway, most resorts do ask tourists to fill out the health questionnaires. There are also health screenings at the airports.

The Dominican Republic 

Visitors will not require any sort of pre-departure tests but all definitely would be subjected to some randomised breath testing stuff along with the health screening immediately on arrival! Visitors who have a vaccination card or maybe a negative RT PCR for an antigen test that was performed within 72 hours before they arrived in the Dominican Republic will be freed from the particular testing procedures. Visitors mandatorily should complete an Electronic Ticket form.

Asia

(No quarantine needed)

Kyrgyzstan 

The proof of COVID vaccination certificate or maybe a negative RT PCR test performed no more than 72 hours before the arrival by air is now required for foreign citizens whenever they enter or travel to Kyrgyzstan.

Thailand

Under the Test and Go scheme, fully vaccinated tourists, both Thai and foreigners, are authorised to enter Thailand without any sort of required quarantine or sandbox stay! Visitors are requested to have an insurance policy with coverage of no less than US$20,000 and a Thailand Pass. All should also have proof of prepayment for 1 night of stay at a government-approved hotel on Day 1, which will also include the expenses for 2 COVID tests and those are an RT-PCR test report on arrival on Day 1 and an antigen test on arrival on Day 5.

Sri Lanka

The fully vaccinated tourists can enter Sri Lanka without testing or any type of isolation or quarantine! 

Europe

(No quarantine needed)

Austria

Tourists entering Austria can tour Austria freely with the proof of vaccination or with the proof of recovery and also a negative COVID test report.

Bulgaria 

If tourists are fully vaccinated, one can easily enter Bulgaria without even requiring to test or quarantine as long as the below-mentioned documentation showcases the following:

A minimum of 14 days which is 2 weeks must have gone through since the last dose of your vaccination plan was allocated.

These above-mentioned requirements apply to all tourists aged 12 and above.

Croatia

If you are fully vaccinated within the last 270 days, you can easily enter Croatia without even requiring a test or quarantine!

Estonia

No tests and also no quarantines are needed for both vaccinated and unvaccinated tourists travelling from India.

France 

Currently, India is there present on France’s green list-

No more negative test reports are needed on departure for vaccinated tourists! No tests or quarantine are needed upon the arrival in metropolitan France.

Children who belong to the age group under 12 years of age are exempted from the above-mentioned necessities!

Greece 

Tourists must fulfil the Passenger Locator Application Form before their arrival in Greece. Testing and quarantine are no longer a need if individuals are eligible to showcase their COVID vaccination certificate proving that they were fully vaccinated at least 14 days before their arrival. It is going to be effective from 2 May 2022 that all the tourists, nonetheless of their country of origin, will be freed from this need to showcase their cagal vaccination, recovery, or maybe test certificate upon their arrival.

Montenegro

Individuals do not need to give their vaccination status or a negative test report for entering Montenegro.

Poland 

Tourists coming from outside the Schengen region must showcase their negative COVID test report in English.

Switzerland

There is no such test or maybe quarantine needed at the current time for entering Switzerland, and tourists entering do not have to fill out any entry passenger locator application form.

The United Kingdom

It doesn't matter whether you are a vaccinated tourist or not, while entering the UK, you do not need to:

Individuals mandatorily need to fulfil a UK passenger locator application form before travelling to England!

It is your choice. Performing any type of COVID test of your choice is crucial anytime before you travel or after you arrive, whatever you want and feel important.

Quarantine when you arrive!

Middle East

(Quarantine not needed)

Bahrain

There is no need for an RT PCR test report or quarantine need for any arrivals regardless of their particular vaccination status.

The United Arab Emirates 

All Indian tourists should mandatorily complete any one of the below-mentioned needs:

Individuals should show that their legal vaccination certificate, which is mandatory, reflects that the tourist is fully vaccinated, particularly with a vaccine approved by the WHO or the United Arab Emirates, and also must comprise the QR code!

Showcase a valid negative COVID RTPCR test certificate performed within 48 hours after the specimen was obtained and issued by a health service provider mandatorily with a QR code.

Qatar 

Fully vaccinated tourists should compulsorily showcase the negative pre-travel RT PCR test report performed no more than 48 hours before the time of departure and isolation or quarantine at a hotel or resort for a day. Authorities will undergo a Rapid Antigen Test on the initial day of the hotel quarantine. Entry is rejected for unvaccinated travellers coming from India.

[helvaticacare]

5 TIPS FOR OPTIMAL LAB EFFICIENCY BIOFIRE FILMARRAY

Over the last few years, the medical industry has experienced a challenging time. Amid the global pandemic of Covid-19, labs worldwide have had to pull double shifts to cope with the ever-increasing volume of output while maintaining quality and standards in the results generated.

Optimising lab efficiency has, therefore, become a priority. Focusing on lab efficiency is essential to review, assess, and upgrade lab equipment and processes, manage resources, upskilling the workforce, and achieve optimal performance without compromising the quality of output.

The BioFire® FilmArray® System is one such platform that can enhance lab efficiency. This advanced technology takes a syndromic approach to diagnosing infectious diseases and features a broad spectrum of possible pathogens in a single rapid test. The ground-breaking method increases the chances of getting the correct answer in a clinically consistent period.

The system can also benefit hospitals that need to run in-house comprehensive molecular tests instead of running and dispatching individual tests to external or third-party labs.

The equipment comes with its entire set of instruments and consumable pouches. It has proven to be an excellent investment in the long run, given the accuracy of the results generated, the output speed and the comprehensive target menu of the BioFire® FilmArray® Panels.

In this article, we look at why maximising lab efficiency is essential and share five steps to achieve this.

DIGITISE YOUR LABS

Modern times need modern measures. With the world going digital, it’s time you digitise your lab too. Documentation and filing in the paper lead to cluttered workspaces. Besides, the age-old methods of documenting, filing, and sharing information daily are tedious, require human resources and are no longer suitable for tech-savvy customers. Switch to digital processes for recording, storing, and sharing information. Digital transformation will help your lab to

improve productivity,

gain easy access to information,

index and organise your data,

increase collaborations within the staff or the with other parties, and lastly,

reduce carbon footprint.

AUTOMATE PROCESSES WHERE NECESSARY.

Automation is the need of the hour to keep up with the constantly rising demand for lab services, and given the lack of qualified lab professionals, technicians, and scientists. Lab efficiency can improve considerably by utilising automated technology wherever possible. Data entry, specimen preparation, results reporting, and other pre-analytic and post-analytic procedures can be streamlined by investing in the right automation technology. Additionally, automating time-consuming processes will allow technicians and researchers to focus on more crucial tasks.

For instance, BioFire® FilmArray® System can automate several functions for infectious disease testing. Lab professionals can automatically analyse a sample by running a BioFire® FilmArray® Panel in just 2 minutes without precise pipetting or measuring. The results generated are well-formatted and are simple to read and understand. In addition, each multiplex PCR BioFire® FilmArray® Panel screens for a broad spectrum of pathogens in a single rapid test. This syndromic testing method increases the likelihood of diagnosing a pathogen for the first time with just one test, significantly reducing the necessity for reflex testing to cover all probable pathogenic causes.

Original Source: https://www.h-h-c.com/5-tips-for-optimal-lab-efficiency-biofire-filmarray/

[theamericanfinance]

Travel to Japan: Flights, Safety And Tips

Most nations' citizens may now travel to Japan as part of pre-arranged trips. Students, business travellers, and relatives of long-term/permanent residents are all welcome at the facility. There are no exceptions to this rule. Travelers on their own dime are still barred entry. Travel restrictions, flights, and admission requirements may be found right here. Situation Plot summary - People from specified countries (including the United States) can travel to Japan as part of a package trip beginning June 10, but you must apply for a visa in advance. - Independent visitors are now unable to travel to Japan, but there are indications that they will be permitted to do so beginning in the fall. - Family members of Japanese citizens and overseas residents of Japan can visit Japan (you must apply for a kinship visa in advance – see information below). - Foreign business travelers and students can travel to Japan if they have the right visa (which must be applied for in advance and requires a sponsor in Japan). - Travelers from so-called "blue" countries are no longer subject to quarantine or arrival testing (including most developed nations like the USA, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand and most of the EU). - Travelers from "blue" nations will not be asked to provide confirmation of Covid vaccination. This implies that if you are from a "blue" nation, you do not need to be vaccinated to enter Japan. - This website will be updated weekly on Mondays, Japan time. - Japan is currently restricted to tourists, but it will reopen in the future. It's time to start thinking about a vacation to Japan.  Japan is once again letting tourists go there ( check our opinions below ) : 20 percent in June 2022 30 percent in July 2022 50 percent by August 2022 85 percent in September 2022 90 percent by October 2022 What You Must Do Immediately There are certain things you should do immediately if you are planning a vacation to Japan. Travel to Japan is in high demand, so booking aircraft tickets and lodging should be a top priority. Must-have: - Check out the greatest bargains on plane tickets right here. - Get the greatest hotel and ryokan prices here. - Get a quotation for travel insurance here. Is a Vaccination Required for Entry into Japan? Japan has recently implemented a color scheme to categorize nations as blue, yellow, or red. Travelers from blue nations are not required to produce confirmation of covid vaccination, are not required to be tested upon arrival in Japan, and are not subject to quarantine. Currently, blue nations include the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. See the MOFA website on covid limitations for a complete list of nations on the blue, yellow, and red lists. Other covid entrance limitations can be found on the MOFA page on resuming travel.All travelers must have documentation of a negative PCR test done 72 hours before to departure, regardless of place of origin or immunization status. Entry Details for "Kinship Visa" Close relatives of Japanese nationals, as well as foreign permanent and long-term residents of Japan, can now enter the country if they apply ahead of time. It's a little unclear, but according to the Japan Times, the following persons can visit Japan on a kinship visa: - Family members within the first degree of kinship to teijsha (long-term foreign residents) who wish to visit their relatives in Japan. (Children and parents are considered first-degree relatives, whereas siblings, grandparents, and grandchildren are considered second-degree family.) - Family members of Japanese nationals and permanent residents within the first and second degrees of kinship who wish to visit their relatives in Japan. So, here's the deal: If you have a Japanese family who lives in Japan, you should be able to visit. You can also visit a spouse, parent, or child who is a permanent resident (eijusha, ) or a long-term resident (teijusha, ) in Japan (one of those things must be written on their residence card). Foreigners who live in Japan are not all regarded as long-term or permanent residents. Many students and workers on temporary visas are not long-term residents. The simplest method to check is to have your Japanese contact look at their residence card (on which their status will be written in English and Japanese). Foreign military members are not normally considered long-term residents. Here are a few highlights: - If you qualify for a kinship visa, you can visit for social (non-emergency) reasons and travel within the nation. - Your Japanese relative will be required to provide documentation. Japanese nationals will be required to provide a koseki-tohon (family registry). Permanent and long-term residents must provide a copy, scan, or photograph of their residency card and juminhyo (residence certificate). - The entire application process takes about 5 to 6 weeks, although you may be able to expedite things. Finally, the government has just stated that friends and relatives up to the sixth degree may visit Japanese nationals and long-term foreign residents to give medical treatment or to attend a wedding or burial. For more information, please contact the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate (see also the Japan Times article below). Travelling to Japan is Possible Now? As long as you have a valid visa, foreign business visitors and students are allowed to enter Japan, providing they have the right paperwork (you will need a sponsor in Japan). It is also possible to enter the country with the use of a "Kinship Visa" for select Japanese nationals, permanent residents, and long-term residents. Certain nations' citizens may go to Japan as part of a group tour, but they must apply for a visa ahead of time. There is now a ban on self-guided visitors, although this is expected to change in the early autumn. Please visit the Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website for the most up-to-date information. Because that page is somewhat complex, you should also contact the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate. Alternatively, the US Embassy in Tokyo offers the most detailed information on the new immigration regulations here (scroll down to "Entry and Exit Requirements"). The ANA website is another excellent resource. What will you need to enter Japan after it reopens? Although Japan has not publicly indicated how and when it would return to visitors, we may make educated guesses based on how they have reopened to foreign residents and business people. As a result of this knowledge, you can get a head start on being ready for when Japan reopens its doors. Here are a few highlights: - Within 72 hours of boarding your flight to Japan, you will very probably be asked to provide proof of a negative COVID test result. Your confirmation of this will most likely be sought while checking in for your journey, and you'll be needed to show it to Japanese immigration upon arrival in Japan. PCR and the CLEIA quantitative antigen test are the only two tests that can be used right now. Look into airports that provide such services, as well as other places where you may get a test on this timetable. - Confusion prevails on the Japanese government's website on COVID-related issues. It's best to check out the US embassy in Tokyo's official website for the most current information. - You want to know that if anything terrible occurs, your travel insurance will take care of you. Insured by World Nomads, COVID treatment is covered. For additional details, please visit the website of our travel insurance provider. Flights taveling to Japan are currently in service. The following table lists the cities where you may travel directly to Japan, along with the airlines that operate there. However, there are certain flights that go to Kansai as well as Tokyo (Narita or Haneda) (Osaka, Kyoto). There are just a few flights here per week, rather than every day. North America - Air Canada, ANA, Japan Airlines, and American Airlines are all based in Vancouver. - ANA, Japan Airlines, Delta, American, and United Airlines all have flights to Seattle. - United, American, ANA, and Japan Airlines serve San Francisco. - United, American, ANA, Japan Airlines, and Singapore Airlines are all based in Los Angeles. - United, American, ANA, and Japan Airlines are all based in Chicago. - American Airlines, Japan Airlines, American Airlines, American Airlines, American Airlines, American Airlines, American Airlines, American Airlines, American Airlines, - Delta Airlines is based in Atlanta. - United, American, ANA, and Japan Airlines are all based in New York.

Coronavirus Information from Japan

According to the Japan COVID-19 Tracker, Japan was seeing around 27,000 new instances each day at the time of writing. In Japan, there were around 69,000 incidences per million persons. The Omicron wave has crested, and instances are fast declining. Here is a link to the most recent coronavirus figures in Japan: COVID-19 Coronavirus Tracker from Japan Tips to Traveling Safely in Japan Here are a few pointers for being safe when travelling in these unusual times. - For the most part, you can get them at drugstores, grocery and even department stores. Japanese airports are another possible source. Make sure you come to Japan with caution, and if you don't know where to find them, just ask someone: "Masuku Arimasu-ka?" Are there any masks in your possession? - Hand sanitizer may be found in many places where masks are sold (see above). - If you want as much room as possible around you on trains, choose green cars, particularly on the shinkansen. - Koshitsu (private chambers) are common in Japanese eateries. The receptionist at your hotel can help you locate and book these establishments. - The best time to see tourist attractions is in the early morning or immediately before they shut at night. Consider a trip to a less-known area. - Stay away from busy areas. Related Article: Travel to Canada in 2022 Read the full article

[regenerationcenterthailand]

Thailand eases entry rules for tourists, eliminates mask policy

Thailand’s Centre of COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) approved the removal of the Thailand Pass registration scheme and an US$10,000 health insurance requirement for foreign travelers, effective 1 July, 2022. From 1 July, 2022, foreign nationals are only required to show proof of either a certificate of vaccination or a negative RT-PCR or professional ATK test result within 72 hours of travel. Unvaccinated/not fully vaccinated travelers who are random checked and who are unable to show proof of a pre-arrival negative test will be required to undergo a professional ATK test at the point of entry. However, we suggest you or your patient to consult the Thai embassy or consulate in your area since an Embassy or Consulate in each city or country may have slightly different requirements and information. Also, note that some airlines might still require an RT-PCR test for travelers. Please check with your airline prior to departure to make sure that you meet their transit requirements.