We’re getting paper.
Here’s something fun and new: We’ve made doing your taxes something you’ll want to do. With the launch of our Tax Return tool, we can help you turn that hard-earned tax refund into something fun – a trip. Keep reading to get the full details on this feature.
The pre-check
This week, we’ve got stories about big spenders, new EU travel rules, destinations that aren’t testing vaccinated travelers and more. Feel free to jump right into the latest travel news.
- Go big or go (somewhere that’s not) home.
Americans have made it clear they’re ready to get back out there, as travel and event companies report that attendance is starting to exceed pre-pandemic numbers.
- What do EU mean we have to register?
Starting spring 2023, US citizens will need a European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) visa waiver to head to many European countries.
- Who wants a boatload of boosters.
The CDC updated its guidance on cruises, lowering the risk assessment to take fully-vaccinated and boosted passengers into account. No booster? They recco avoiding cruises.
- Are we going to be tested on this?
Apparently not – these 10 destinations do not require a COVID-19 test if you’re fully vaccinated.
- A subscription service, but make it travel.
Alaska Airlines is rolling out a subscription program, Flight Pass. West Coast travelers can subscribe for 6, 12 or 24 nonstop trips a year.
Trending travel
Here’s what’s trending and how it can help you make the most of your trip.
Taxed, vaxxed and ready to relax.
Getting a monetary boost from your 2021 tax returns is great, but you know what’s better? Doing something fun with that money. That’s where our Tax Refund tool comes into play. It takes our fan-favorite KAYAK Explore tool and lets you enter your refund amount (or whatever portion of it you want to spend) to show you where in the world you can plan a post-tax season trip. Already filed your taxes? Head here to give it a whirl.
Tricks of the trade
Where we share stories, tips or hacks that might’ve been missed in your usual content feed.
What to do if your passport needs a refresh.
With international travel resuming, many of us are eager to dust off and renew our passports. According to CN Traveler, the White House is working to make this process virtual in the near future. In the meantime, here’s a refresher on how to renew your passport:
- Start early…like 8 – 11 weeks early.
According to the US State Dept, it takes 8 – 11 weeks to process renewals. For expediting at an extra $60, it’ll take 5 – 7 weeks.
- Ship that stuff.
If your old passport meets certain criteria, you don’t have to renew in person – just ship it along with a filled-out DS-82 form.
- Or go in person.
If you don’t meet the criteria to renew online, you’ll have to do it in person. Plan ahead by making an appointment.
- Say cheese.
New passport = new picture. Be sure to read the instructions for photos so an improper pic doesn’t hold up the process.
Social Shoutouts
We help you know when to book AND try to save you money – @riaillustration knows what’s up.
Links in this Newsletter are for informational purposes only, and there is no affiliation, sponsorship, or endorsement by or with KAYAK Software Corporation whatsoever.
