Global easing of restrictions means many countries have lifted their quarantine requirements for travellers. Everybody is now super excited to be able to finally get out of their homes and go somewhere. We can’t wait to travel abroad for work or play, or to meet up with family and friends. And thus, here’s a warning: Expect delays on practically every step of the traveling process!
Firstly, check to see if you’ve got valid travelling documents; as most people haven’t taken a trip for quite a while, their passports may have gone expired.
So suddenly EVERYBODY needs to renew their passport. Staff at the passport offices say they are overwhelmed by the high volumes of applications. It follows that there were multiple complaints of lost applications or other errors which have resulted in extended delays. For the past month, Canadians are seen lining up outside passport offices at around 4am in the morning, and many have had to spend the entire day waiting.
Airports are also requesting that travellers arrive 3 hours before their international flights, or 2 hours before their domestic departure. Airport personnel say they are so short-staffed that there’s no way they can let someone jump the queue just because their plane is departing. Some travellers who did not arrive the airport ahead of time as requested have missed their flights.
But of course all that hassle is still worthwhile as our spirits are lifted by the mere thought of going on vacation. Have yourself a great trip!
News-plus.ca 