Google can help you plan a vacation amid COVID restrictions. Here's how
Google's new tools will keep you updated on COVID-19 travel advisories and changes for any destination worldwide. Here's how to stay in the loop so you can travel safely again.
- She received the Renau Writing Scholarship in 2016 from the University of Louisville's communication department.
On Wednesday, Google launched a new travel advisory feature to help people safely plan vacations after being fully vaccinated against COVID-19. When you search for flights, hotels or events, Google will let you know about any COVID-19 travel advisories or restrictions in that destination, and keep you updated on any changes that could impact your plans.
The new tools could come in handy as vaccines roll out across the US and as travel restrictions in some parts of the world begin to lift.
Here's how to use the new Google travel features.
How to get COVID-19 travel advisory updates when planning a trip
1. Search on Google for a flight or hotel for a particular destination.
2. Google will let you know if there are any travel restrictions or requirements in place (for example, if you need to provide a negative COVID-19 test prior to a flight departure). You'll also find a link to the CDC's website for more information about immunization, mask requirements and more.
3. To keep up-to-date with travel advisory changes for the destination you're searching, make sure you're signed into your Google account, and toggle on Receive an email if this guidance changes. You'll be notified when restrictions are added, lifted or reduced. Those updates are country-specific for international travel, and state-specific for the US.
For more, check out current travel guidelines for COVID-19 and the most recent guidance on wearing masks outdoors.
