Log on to your social media right now, and it might be flooded with stories and posts of your friends whizzing all over ✈️ If you've already gotten the travel bug, it's time to get it cured and book yourself a trip now! We know that there's still another bug going around, but we know you still want to revisit your favourite destinations ? Don't worry, we got you the lowdown on the Covid-rules of destinations we at HHWT know you love!
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1. Malaysia
There's a reason we can't get enough of Malaysia - it’s perfect for any type of travel you want: a foodie vacay, romantic getaway, family break, and more! ? It takes less than an hour to reach any of your vacay spots such as Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Melaka and Ipoh by flight! The best part is you can take long scenic drives across the border - something we Singaporeans can't do back home! ? Just remember to download and activate the MySejahtera app before entering Malaysia. You'll need to indicate your COVID-19 risk status via the app during your stay!
Vaccination rate: 84.2%
Quarantine-free travel: Yes (applicable to partially vaccinated/unvaccinated travellers)
ART/PCR test requirement: No (applicable to partially vaccinated/unvaccinated travellers)
Mask requirement: Mask-wearing is no longer required outdoors, however, it's still mandatory in all indoor settings.
For more updates, click on Malaysia's official Covid-19 website here.
2. Singapore
Singapore is known for many things - a diverse local food culture, dozens of exciting attractions, and non-stop shopping opportunities everywhere you look. Whether you're here for a stopover trip or a long vacation, there's endless fun in each corner! Restrictions have been loosened even further - no masks are required in many indoor settings ? Before heading to the little red dot, check out our handy mask guide!
Vaccination rate: 93%
Quarantine-free travel: Yes (also applicable to partially vaccinated/unvaccinated travellers)
ART/PCR test requirement: No for fully vaccinated travellers. Partially vaccinated/unvaccinated travellers must show proof of negative test for Covid within 2 days before their departure to Singapore)
Mask requirement: Mask-wearing is no longer required outdoors. Masks are also not required to be worn indoors except in healthcare facilities and on public transport, or i.e. places where essential services are carried out in enclosed and crowded areas, and which are frequently used by vulnerable people.
For more updates, click on Singapore's official Covid-19 website here.
3. Thailand
Picturesque islands. ?️ Golden with swaying palms. Halal amazing Thai food on offer. ?️Scoring some of the cheapest buys ever. Thailand has long been the go-to destination for those looking for a much-needed tropical break. Thailand has long gone through a series of changes in their Covid-19 rules, from dropping the need to have the Thailand Pass and compulsory insurance to loosening restrictions on mask requirements. More trips to Thailand now ?
Vaccination rate: 76.4%
Quarantine-free travel: Yes (also applicable to partially vaccinated/unvaccinated travellers)
ART/PCR test requirement: No for vaccinated travellers. Partially vaccinated/unvaccinated travellers must show proof of negative test for Covid within 2 days before their departure to Thailand.
Mask requirement: Mask-wearing is voluntary, however advisories remain for wearing face masks in crowded places, when social distancing is impossible, or in venues where ventilation is poor.
4. Indonesia
Ah, the land of gorgeous beaches, rich culture, scenic nature spots, and scrumptious halal food. There’s no denying that Indonesia is truly a location with everything any traveller is looking for ? Perfect for a romantic getaway, or a family vacation, Indonesia is perfect for a quick but fun and fulfilling spot for a holiday break ? Bali, in particular, is becoming a popular tourist spot again this year, so if you need any guides, check it out! Do remember though, to download the Peduli Lindungi app before entering Indonesia!
Vaccination rate: 62.4%
Quarantine-free travel: Yes, for fully vaccinated travellers. Partially vaccinated/unvaccinated travellers will have to undergo a 5-day quarantine at CHSE-certified quarantine hotels and must take the PCR test on the 4th day of their quarantine.
ART/PCR test requirement: No for vaccinated travellers. Partially vaccinated/unvaccinated travellers must show proof of negative test for Covid within 2 days before their departure to Indonesia.
Mask requirement: Mask-wearing is required in outdoor and indoor settings. However, compliance has been low.
5. Australia
There’s so much to love about Australia. Brimming with bustling cities, stunning landscapes and friendly locals, it’s no wonder why Australia is one of our favourite Muslim-friendly destinations in the world ? While Australia has done away with multiple travel exemptions, such as the Digital Passenger Declaration, they still have strict regulations on what you can or cannot bring, so check out this website beforehand!
Vaccination rate: 84.7%
Quarantine-free travel & ART/PCR test requirement: There are no quarantine or testing requirements for international travellers, regardless of vaccination status.
Mask requirement: Mask-wearing is not enforced in outdoor settings. However, indoors are mandatory, especially in enclosed areas or places with vulnerable people. Do note that masks are still required on flights to Australia.
6. New Zealand
Postcards come and go, but there’s nothing more mesmerising than wandering through the scenic splendours of New Zealand. Dotted with magnificent mountains, emerald lakes and birds whistling, the country’s natural wonders are simply out of this world ? Whether you want to experience the unique Kiwi and Maori cultures in the North Island, or deep-dive into nature at the South Island, it's a country you'll want to visit again and again ?
For unvaccinated travellers, New Zealand is still out of bounds for now. However, you can apply for a exemption if you have legitimate reasoning via this link.
Vaccination rate: 81.2%
Quarantine-free travel: Yes for fully vaccinated travellers.
ART/PCR test requirements: While no PCR test is required before you depart for New Zealand, travellers are required to self-test for Covid-19 on arrival. You will receive a Welcome Pack at the Biosecurity checkpoint. This pack will include detailed information on and testing requirements, including rapid antigen tests. The first RAT is to be administered on the day you arrive into New Zealand, and the second on day 5/6. If you have a positive COVID-19 test result, you must immediately self-isolate, register your result, and follow up with a PCR test.
Mask requirements: While masks outdoors are not required, masks are mandatory in public indoor settings.
For more updates, check out New Zealand's official Covid website here!
7. South Korea
Whether it’s your first time to South Korea or your third, there’s something about this city that keeps pulling travellers back ? Maybe it’s the delicious Korean cuisine, beautiful nature spots or exciting shopping spots, or the blend of everything but we sure are hooked! ? South Korea still upholds the need for PCR tests for all travellers, regardless of their vaccination status, and must take PCR tests on arrival as well. However, masks outdoors when in South Korea are not required anymore.
Vaccination rate: 86.3%
Quarantine-free travel: Yes (also applicable to partially vaccinated/unvaccinated travellers)
ART/PCR test requirements: A PCR test is required within 2 days of departure. If you decide to take the ART, you can take it within 1 day of departure. You must also take a PCR test within 1 day of your arrival, even if you will only be in South Korea for 3 days or less.
Mask requirements: While masks outdoors are not required, masks are mandatory in public indoor settings. Those who violate this rule face a fine of 100,000 won (S$104).
For more information, check out Korea Tourism Organization's website here!
8. United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is one of Western Europe's classic destinations, full of stunning landscapes, exciting attractions, rich culture and more. It's a place that guarantees an amazing holiday whether you're visiting with family, friends or your other half ? United Kingdom, like many countries in Europe, has one of the laxest restrictions ever. However, check the different Covid guidelines if you're going to other places in the UK such as Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Vaccination rate: 75.4%
Quarantine-free travel: Yes (also applicable to partially vaccinated/unvaccinated travellers)
ART/PCR test requirements: No (also applicable to partially vaccinated/unvaccinated travellers)
Mask requirements: Masks are no longer mandatory in outdoor and indoor settings such as airports and public transport. However, wearing one is highly recommended if you're in close contact with others.
For more information, check out the UK's government website here!
9. Switzerland
Switzerland is definitely one of those evergreen destinations that'll we’re always looking forward to visiting! Blessed with dramatic snow-capped mountains, picturesque century-old towns, scenic train rides and more, there’s a great adventure that only an ultimate Swiss getaway can tell! There are currently no entry restrictions at all; no proof of vaccination, recovery or testing is also required for entry into Switzerland ?
Vaccination rate: 69.6%
Quarantine-free travel: Yes (also applicable to partially vaccinated/unvaccinated travellers)
ART/PCR test requirements: No (also applicable to partially vaccinated/unvaccinated travellers)
Mask requirements: Masks are no longer mandatory in outdoor and indoor settings such as airports and public transport. However, wearing one is highly recommended if you're in close contact with others, or if you're feeling unwell.
For more information, check out the Swiss's government website here!
10. France
From luxurious shopping trips, iconic monuments, stunning cultural sites and amazing French pastries and cuisines, it’s no wonder this country, in particularly, the City of Love, is on so many of our bucket lists! ?We have plenty of guides and itineraries to check out, so don't forget to click on our France tag! France is lifted the need for a vaccine pass, a Covid certificate, and take any Covid test before entry! Great news for you? Oui oui ?
Vaccination rate: 63%
Quarantine-free travel: Yes (also applicable to partially vaccinated/unvaccinated travellers)
ART/PCR test requirements: No (also applicable to partially vaccinated/unvaccinated travellers)
Mask requirements: Masks are no longer mandatory in outdoor and indoor settings such as airports and public transport. However, wearing one is highly recommended in enclosed and small spaces, and at large gatherings for vulnerable persons.
For more information, check out the French's government website here!
11. Japan
Now we leave the best for the last - Japan! There's good reason why this country always a spot in our hearts: the delicious halal Japanese cuisine and the picturesque views are just a few of the many ? Nevertheless, we all know that the rules for travel to Japan this year is anything but straightforward. However, with more airlines like Scoot and AirAsia increasing more flights to Japan, there's a high chance a trip to Japan this end-of-year might be on the books ?Recently, Japan has announced that they will drop the need for fully vaccinated travellers to show proof of a negative Covid test prior to their entry. This will take effect from 7th September However, do note that the quarantine rules do differ depending on which country you're from.
Vaccination rate: 81.6%
*Quarantine-free travel: Yes (also applicable to partially vaccinated/unvaccinated travellers)
*ART/PCR test requirements: No from September 7th for fully vaccinated travellers only. Partially vaccinated/unvaccinated travellers must submit proof of negative PCR test 2 days prior to their departure to Japan.
Mask requirements: While the country has never legally enforced government guidance for mask-wearing in crowded areas such as public transport, and when meeting the elderly or spending time in a hospital, locals still voluntarily wear masks.
*Do note that these only apply to countries under the 'Blue' Group (i.e. Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia). Do click on the link below to find out what entry rules you should follow if you're from a different country.
For more information, check out the Japan's government website here!
What other destinations would you like us to cover? Feel free to drop us a message! We hope this guide will help you plan your upcoming trips. Judging by the rules thus far, it seems that many have been loosening their restrictions, so here's to celebrating our return to travelling again ?