Travel To See Your Partner: What You Need To Know

Travelling with your partner can be a wonderful way to strengthen your bond and create lasting memories. However, it can also be a challenging test of your relationship, as you navigate new environments and situations together. During the COVID-19 pandemic, travel restrictions and lockdown measures further complicated the decision to travel to see a partner, particularly if you lived apart. While rules varied based on location and timing, some general guidelines included limiting social gatherings, maintaining social distance, and avoiding non-essential travel. For international travel, additional considerations, such as visa requirements and customs inspections, also come into play. Ultimately, the decision to travel to see your partner involves weighing the potential benefits of shared experiences and deeper connection against the challenges of coordinating plans, managing stress, and adhering to relevant health and safety protocols.

International travel restrictions

COVID-19 Considerations:

While visitors to the US are not required to be tested or vaccinated for COVID-19, individual countries may have their own requirements for incoming travellers. Before planning any international travel, it is essential to check the COVID-19 restrictions and requirements for both your destination country and your return trip home.

Country-Specific Travel Advisories:

The US Department of State provides country-specific travel advisories, including COVID-19 restrictions, for US citizens travelling abroad. These advisories offer valuable information on safety, security, and other important considerations for your destination country. Be sure to consult these advisories before planning your trip.

Travel Restrictions in Your Destination Country:

In addition to COVID-19 restrictions, your destination country may have specific entry or exit requirements, visa regulations, or other travel-related restrictions. Research and understand the specific rules and regulations of the country you plan to visit, as they may differ significantly from those in the US.

Local Laws and Customs:

When travelling internationally, it is crucial to respect the local laws and customs of your destination. Familiarize yourself with the legal system, cultural norms, and any restrictions or prohibited items to ensure you do not unintentionally break any laws. Understanding local laws can help you avoid legal complications during your trip.

Travel Insurance and Emergency Preparedness:

Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other potential issues. Review the terms and conditions of your policy carefully, as some insurers may have exclusions or limitations for pandemic-related claims. Additionally, enrol in your country's embassy or consulate's registration programs to stay informed about important safety and security information.

Stay Informed and Flexible:

Domestic travel restrictions

United Kingdom

In the UK, lockdown and social distancing measures have been put in place to slow the spread of COVID-19. During the lockdown, people were advised not to meet with their partners if they lived separately. However, people were permitted to meet outside, including in public spaces and private gardens, either in groups of six or as two households, as long as they maintained a two-metre distance. Those who disobeyed the rules faced fines, which increased for subsequent breaches.

United States Virgin Islands

The US Virgin Islands previously required all domestic travellers to complete the USVI Travel Screening Portal to enter the islands of St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas. However, as of May 31, 2022, these restrictions were lifted, and domestic travellers are no longer required to complete the screening portal. It is important to note that international travellers, including those from the British Virgin Islands, still need to follow federal guidelines and restrictions, including providing proof of vaccination and a negative COVID-19 test result.

Creating a support bubble

A support bubble is when a single-adult household mixes with another household of any size. This allows them to visit each other indoors and outdoors and stay overnight. Once a support bubble is established, it must remain exclusive, meaning people cannot switch their chosen household with another one.

If your partner lives alone, you could form a support bubble with them. This means you can visit each other, stay overnight, and provide informal childcare for any children under 14 in the bubble.

You can form a support bubble with another household of any size if you live by yourself, or if your household only includes children under the age of 18. You can also form a support bubble if your household includes just one adult, with or without children under the age of 18.

If you decide to create a support bubble, it is important to remember that you should not socialise with anyone from outside your bubble in any indoor setting, and you should avoid close contact with anyone you do not live with or is not in your support bubble. This means you cannot meet people outside your support bubble in their homes or gardens, or stay overnight in a different household.

If you or anyone in your support bubble develops COVID-19 symptoms, you should immediately self-isolate and get a PCR test. If the test is positive, you and your support bubble should self-isolate for at least seven days. If you are identified as a close contact of someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, you and your support bubble should self-isolate for 10 full days.

Planning a trip

Keep it Short and Sweet

It's a good idea to make the first trip a short one, especially if you haven't spent much uninterrupted time together before. This way, you can test the waters and see how well you travel together without committing to a long holiday. A weekend getaway to a romantic city or a few days exploring a new place can be a perfect way to start.

Discuss Budgets and Expectations

Money can be a tricky subject, so it's essential to talk about budgets and expectations before planning your trip. Be open about your financial situation and how much you are comfortable spending. Setting a budget together is also a great way to see how well you work as a team and align your financial goals for the trip.

Talk About Your Holiday Goals

People have different ideas of a perfect holiday. One person might want to relax by the pool, while the other might want to go hiking or explore the local area. Discuss what you both want from the holiday and find a balance. Figure out what activities you would both enjoy and plan accordingly. This will ensure that you're both happy and avoid potential disagreements during the trip.

Be Open to Trying New Things

While it's important to consider each other's preferences, it's also beneficial to be open to trying new things. You might discover a new hobby or activity that you both enjoy. For example, attending live sports games or trying a new cuisine can create shared experiences and bring you closer together.

Divide the Trip Planning Responsibilities

Prepare for the Unexpected

While spontaneity can be exciting, it's also important to prepare for potential bumps in the road. Pack essential items like tissues, antibacterial wipes, and any necessary medications. Keep your devices charged, and always have a backup plan, such as a list of restaurants or activities you'd both enjoy. This will help you navigate any travel disruptions or last-minute changes smoothly.

Remember, the key to successful trip planning is communication and compromise. By discussing your wants, needs, and expectations beforehand, you'll be well on your way to creating memorable experiences and strengthening your bond. Happy travelling!

Privacy considerations

When travelling to see your partner, there are several privacy considerations to keep in mind, especially if you are crossing borders or travelling far from home. Here are some key points to consider:

• Keep your travel plans off social media: While it may be tempting to share your excitement about seeing your partner, posting travel plans on social media can increase the risk of your personal information falling into the wrong hands. Cybercriminals may take advantage of this information to break into your home or commit other crimes. Avoid posting real-time location updates or details about your itinerary.
• Protect your devices: Ensure that your phones, laptops, and other gadgets are password-protected and encrypted. Keep them with you at all times, and avoid leaving them unattended in public spaces or your hotel room. If you must leave them behind, lock them in a safe. Enable features like "Find My Device" to locate and wipe your device remotely if it gets lost or stolen.
• Be cautious with Wi-Fi and charging: Avoid connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks, as they pose a risk to your data security. If you must use public Wi-Fi, use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your traffic and protect your privacy. Disable auto-connect to prevent your devices from connecting to unknown networks. Be wary of public charging ports, as "juice-jacking" attacks can occur when you connect to a compromised charging station.
• Limit what you bring: Only bring the essential cards, travel documents, and personal information you need. Leave unnecessary items and documents at home in a safe place. This reduces the chances of losing valuable items and minimises the impact if something gets stolen.
• Monitor your accounts and cards: Regularly check your credit card statements for any suspicious or unauthorised charges during your trip. Report any suspicious activity immediately to your bank or credit card company. Set up two-factor authentication on your accounts for added security.
• Keep critical documents close: Ensure that you always have quick access to important documents like your passport, travel documents, and identification. Make digital or physical copies of these documents and store them securely. Leave a set of copies with a trusted family member or friend, so you can retrieve them in case of loss or theft.
• Choose accommodation wisely: Select accommodation that prioritises your privacy. If possible, opt for a private room or a villa, especially if travelling with family. Consider the safety and security measures provided by the accommodation to ensure your privacy is respected.
• Be aware of travel scams: Research common travel scams and be cautious during your trip. Criminals often target travellers, so be vigilant and protect your personal information. Be wary of suspicious ATMs, public computers, or unfamiliar people trying to access your data.

Frequently asked questions