Fast Five Travel News of the Month
Although recent times make it quite challenging to voyage around the world, the travel industry is finding new and safe ways for us to slowly return back to normal. Take a look at some of this month’s positive news to learn how countries and companies are adapting to the new circumstances.
Here's our top five travel news of October:
1. Russia to Offer New E-Visas to Tourists from 53 Countries
The Russian government have enacted legislation permitting foreign travellers from 53 nations to tour Russia with an electronic visa from January 1, 2021. Tourism directors anticipate that the e-visa will rejuvenate the country’s travel industry which has suffered from the pandemic. Citizens from EU member states, China, India and more will be able to apply for a 16-day single-entry tourist visa online. The e-visas will cost around £40 (free for children aged six and under). Foreigners can apply for the visa on the Russian Foreign Ministry website and obtain the visa under four days. From the date of issue, the visa will be valid for 60 days. Read more about Russia’s e-visa.
2. Finnish Airline Selling Business-Class Meals in Supermarkets
Finland-based airline Finnair is now selling ready-made business-class meals in a local store near Helsinki airport. The ‘Taste of Finnair’ meals, which include reindeer and beef in teriyaki sauce, is a fusion of Nordic flavours and Tokyo’s street food culture. The meals, cooked at the airline’s Finnair Kitchen, offer two main course options that range from €12.90 and are set to change bi-weekly. Marika Nieminen, VP at Finnair Kitchen said: “As so many of Finnair Kitchen’s employees are temporarily laid off, the project enables us to create new work and employment for our people.” Read more about Finnair’s business-class meals.
3. European Council Launches Colour-Coded Travel Restrictions Map
The European Council recently announced that the European Union would adopt a colour-coded map to illustrate COVID-19 travel constraints. The map will be updated weekly by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. All countries will be divided into red (high risk), orange (medium risk), and green (low risk), and common rules for each region will be recommended. The interactive map allows users to search for specific countries and provides detailed information on the rules and regulations implemented. The information provides answers to questions such as, “May I transit in this country?”, “Is a mask required in public spaces?” and more. Check out the colour-coded interactive map here.
4. Lord of the Rings Filming Location is Now Open to the Public After 11 Years
New Zealand’s Deer Park Heights, in Queenstown, where “Lord of the Rings” was filmed is now open to the public after an 11-year hiatus. During the interval, the park operated as a private farm, including deer, goats, llamas, alpacas and donkeys. Now that it has reopened, visitors can embark on scenic drives, see and hand-feed the farm animals, have picnics at the scenic lookouts, and enjoy the iconic filming locations. There are interactive maps on the farm’s official website listing seven filming spots that guests can use to find their favourite “Lord of the Rings” destinations.
5. Dubai Announces a New Visa for Remote Workers
The United Arab Emirates is the latest country to offer visas for professionals whose companies are based overseas. The new scheme provides benefits to remote workers that was previously only afforded to residents. To be eligible for the visa, overseas professionals must earn a monthly income of at least $5000, have a working contract that is valid for a year, and provide three months of bank statements. The visa costs $287, plus medical insurance and processing fees. Those who obtain the visa will be able to open a bank account, enrol their children in schools, and set up utilities. A supplementary advantage of relocating is that the UAE does not require income tax on individuals. Read more about Dubai’s latest visa here.
Although this is not the most comfortable time for travel, we still have the opportunity to learn and educate ourselves about how different countries and companies are finding solutions and alternatives to travelling safely again. To get updates and be notified of changes in the travel industry, sign up for our weekly newsletter. Read last month’s fast five here.