Whale Island Trip

The COVID-19 pandemic may have changed how we travel, but it hasn't stifled our zest for exploring. Here are some tips on how to cope with the new challenges of travelling:

• Research if any travel restrictions apply to your destination and origin before locking in your flight. Also check if there are any requirements you'll need to follow on arrival, such as proof of a negative COVID-19 test.
• You're required to wear a face mask throughout your travel experience, including at screening checkpoints. You should be prepared to lower your mask for ID purposes when asked.
• To reduce the potential of cross-contamination, position your boarding pass on the reader yourself and then hold it up for inspection. Do not hand your pass directly to a TSA agent.
• TSA is now allowing passengers to take one container of hand sanitizer, up to 12 oz (350 ml) in size, in carry-on baggage. This will need to be removed from your bag and submitted for screening.
• Remove items from your pocket, like your wallet, phone and small change, and put them in your carry-on rather than the bins. This will minimize handling during screening.
• Transport any food items in a clear plastic bag and also put them in a screening bin. Keeping food separate from your carry-on means it's less likely a TSA agent will need to open and touch your bag for inspection.

As borders reopen and people begin travelling again, many airlines have adopted policies like social distancing to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. Below are two good examples:

• Vietnam Airlines - this airline is known for conducting passenger temperature checks and cleaning with disinfectant.
• Korean Air - this airline is known for electrostatic cleaning and cleaning with disinfectant.