After what felt like an eternity during the COVID-19 pandemic, the world slowly opened up to travel. Everyone addicted to travel is excited to start packing for the first post-pandemic holiday trip finally. 

However, travel as we know it has changed drastically in the last two years, and it’s once again possible to return to your favourite destinations of the past, such as Bali, Thailand or Vietnam. 

However, it’s time to consider different Europe or the USA destinations. Whether your travel bucket list takes you shortly, there are essential things to keep in mind when travelling on your first post-pandemic holiday.

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Tips For Planning Your First Post-Pandemic Holiday Trip

Tips For Planning Your First Post-Pandemic Holiday Trip

Let’s travel again with a few essential tips for planning a holiday after covid. 

Choosing A Destination and Accommodations

Plenty of countries are already open to foreign travellers (here’s a list of countries and their current requirements to help you start your planning), but that’s not without specific restrictions and paperwork. These may include some or all of the following: proof of vaccination, medical insurance, proof of accommodation, quarantine hotel if applicable, and others. 

While it’s generally safer to travel now compared to previous months, that doesn’t mean that there is no chance that you can still contract the virus while on your holiday abroad. It will be wise to research what the government of your chosen country requires if you do test positive during your trip. 

In addition, cancellation policies have also changed due to the virus. It’s recommended to study the cancellation policies of hotels and airlines before booking. 

Travel Medical Insurance

Travel medical insurance is the most critical aspect of your trip.

While many travellers have chosen to forego travel insurance in the past, this is not something you want to take for granted in the post-pandemic travel era because it can save you a great deal of money (and hassle). Most countries will likely not accept foreign tourists without the necessary travel insurance. Each destination will have its requirements as to the minimum amount of coverage you need to enter the country. 

There are now many recognised travel insurers who provide adequate insurance for COVID-19. There are many types of coverage that you can choose, but it’s essential to choose wisely. Some will provide coverage for cancellation costs incurred on repatriation and medical expenses, while others will only cover medical costs if you get COVID-19 while travelling abroad. Each provider will have its restrictions, so always check the fine print. 

When shopping around for travel insurance, it’s best to finalise your purchase when booking your flight and accommodations. Also, note that it’s improbable that travel insurance providers will provide coverage for cancellation costs if travel restrictions such as lockdowns occur either at your destination or home country around the time of travel, preventing you from going on your trip. 

Other things to think about when shopping for travel insurance: 

• How much of the hospitalisation fee will be covered if you have to be confined at your destination?
• Does the policy include coverage for the entire duration of your trip? If a cancelled flight or sickness leads to an unexpected extension of your trip, will the range be extended?
• If you will be going on a cruise, will the insurer cover medical costs for multi-night cruises?
• Will your cancellation costs be covered if a family member or business partner back home tests positive, requiring you to come back sooner than planned?
• Are you going to be covered for costs incurred by events such as self-isolation, mandatory quarantine, border closures, or government travel bans at your destination?

It would also be wise to look into Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) supplemental coverage, which is optional. CFAR is a policy upgrade that allows travellers to cancel anytime, usually for COVID-related fears and worries that are not included in the policy. It will usually provide around 75% reimbursement of trip costs that are not refundable. The procedure can be used if you have booked a trip but are unsure about the testing requirements at the destination, or suddenly your companions no longer want to go on the trip. 

Travel Agent

More people turn to travel agents again to seek experienced help with post-pandemic planning. 

In the past, it was easy to book everything online without asking for the advice of a travel agent. But now, especially with international travel, a travel agent is a highly beneficial service. There are many things to know about: border closures and openings, changing travel requirements, travel insurance, political upheavals and information on natural disasters and weather. Having a trustworthy and reliable travel agent can help you navigate the overwhelming changes and stay informed even during your trip. 

Travel agents are a worthy investment; they usually charge an upfront fee for their services, so ask for their rate card when scouring around for one. Some agents may assign an initial consultation fee, while additional costs will be charged for booking airlines or other services. 

Consider Slow Travel

With the sheer amount of preparation and the costs of travelling into international borders, many travellers find it pragmatic to travel slow.

Slow travel means staying in a destination for weeks, whereas it was easy to cross borders and travel from one city to another in the past without thinking twice about the consequences. Going down the slow travel path will save you money from constant testing and other related travel costs. However, there is also another great benefit: you’ll be able to immerse yourself in a new city or culture more efficiently. 

Conclusion to Post-Pandemic Travel

Given these recommendations, it’s good to know that you can still enjoy travel the way you did before. There are just a few adjustments to make, and pre-trip planning is more critical than ever, but as long as you’ve done your homework (and have some patience), the world is ready for you. 

The family is getting excited for their next travel adventure. 

K-drama is one of the hottest television worldwide, and on a South Korea trip, you can visit the most popular locations for K-Drama filming.

Since the 1990s, South Korea has gained popularity for its television dramas, also known as K-dramas. These soap opera-style shows have captivated viewers worldwide, helping boost the country’s tourism industry.

In recent years, the popularity of Korean dramas has exploded, with fans all over the world eager to immerse themselves in the culture. “Descendants of the Sun,” “My Love from the Star,” “Mr Sunshine,” and other K-Dramas have enchanted audiences into visiting the country. 

The global popularity of K-dramas coincided with the emergence of other South Korean cultural products such as K-pop, cosmetics, and foods have had a tremendous impact on many aspects of South Korean society, including tourism.

The K-drama phenomenon, dubbed the “Korean Wave” (or Hallyu), has continued to grow in popularity, with more and more people visiting South Korea to experience the culture first hand.  

Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, South Korea, is one of the famous locations for K-Drama Filming.

Some of the Most Popular Locations for K-Drama Filming

If you’re a fan of South Korea‘s TV shows and the mega Korean stars such as Kim Tae-Ri and Lee Byung-Hun, you’ll be interested in learning about some of the top filming locations for K Drama in the country. From picturesque mountains to lively city streets, South Korea has it all when setting the scene for a compelling drama that’ll live in your hearts forever. 

1. Yeouido Hangang Park

Yeouido Hangang Park is a large public park in South Korea that stretches along the banks of the Han River. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, with plenty of things to do, see, and enjoy. From biking and hiking trails to paddle boats and playgrounds, there’s something for everyone at Yeouido Hangang Park.

The scenery is simply beautiful, making it a pleasant place to relax and fresh air. The park is also home to several cultural attractions, including an art museum, performance hall, and botanical garden. 

Hangang Park, South Korea

2. Forest of Wisdom

This public library, located in Paju Book City, is a bookworm’s dream, with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves loaded with over 200,000 books. It is just a few steps away from the demilitarized zone (DMZ), one of the premier book culture hubs in South Korea.

Although there is no book sale here, guests are welcome to explore and read the books as part of the library’s purpose to be more than just a library.

3. Namsan Tower

Namsan Tower, located in the heart of Seoul, South Korea, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. The tower offers 360-degree panoramic stunning views of the cityscape and surrounding mountains.

Visitors can enjoy various activities at Namsan Tower, including hiking, shopping, and dining. The tower, dazzling city lights, and love locks are frequently used in K-drama scenes shot at Namsan. It is the location of romantic dates between lovers, especially at night when the tower is illuminated.

Seoul N Tower.

4. Bukchon Hanok Village

Bukchon Hanok Village is a picturesque and historic neighbourhood in Seoul, South Korea. This lovely village, which is surrounded by palaces, temples, and traditional Korean dwellings, is a fascinating destination in the heart of Seoul. Visitors can learn about the area’s rich culture and history while touring traditional Korean residences, stores, and eateries.

Bukchon Hanok Village has been used to film several historical dramas, including Jumong, Dae Jang Geum, and Sungkyunkwan Scandal.

5. Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace is already well-known to fans of historical K-dramas. The palace was established in 1395 in Seoul and served as the primary royal residence during the Joseon Dynasty.

The grounds are beautiful and spacious, and there are many traditional buildings and structures to explore. Visitors can also learn about the rich history and culture of South Korea through various exhibits and programs offered at the palace.

The crowds gather at Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul.

6. Cheonggyecheon Stream 

South Korea is bustling with life and energy. The people are constantly on the go, working hard to make a living. Amid all this hustle and bustle is the Cheonggyecheon stream, another romantic K-drama favourite location.

This oasis of peace is a welcome respite from the busy city streets. Lovers can meet here, and single travellers can also go for some alone time as they stroll along the pedestrian walkway, admiring the waterfalls and landscaping. 

Start Planning Your Trip

From the bustling streets of Seoul to the peaceful countryside, South Korea has something for everyone. As K-drama fans, you often drool over your favourite shows’ stunning scenery and locations.

It is not a surprise if you want to be close to where these shows are filmed. When you visit the country, record your trip and edit it with a YouTube video maker, then share it with your family and friends. You may also upload your travel experiences on social media so that others can get inspiration for where to explore when they visit the country. 

Cheonggyecheon Stream in Seoul.