Check and verify before holidaying

The Malaysian borders are reopening on April 1 this year and travel and tour planners and experts are advising Malaysians to look into the ‘extras’ that did not exist before the Covid-19 pandemic so as not to be stranded or left in the lurch.

For example, travel insurance is a must when visiting some countries for Covid-19 related medical treatment and hospitalisation costs

The Malaysia Inbound Tourism Association (MITA) said that in order to enjoy a trip that is smooth sailing overseas, tourists should book the trip through a travel agent to avoid teething problems when borders reopen.

MITA also advised those who are looking to make a trip abroad to check on the latest travel requirements and advisory issued by the consulates of the countries they are going to, including the types of vaccines accepted, as these requirements change from time to time.

The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Outbound said while bookings for trips have yet to pick up, there is a lot of interest from customers.

MATTA said countries that may be popular choices among travellers are countries that have relaxed their SOPs and opened their borders such as those in European countries.