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US won’t lift inbound travel restrictions, citing delta variant concerns
With the delta virus causing havoc across the globe the US administration said it will not relax any travel restrictions.
That has frustrated leaders across the globe, in the UK, Europe and Canada for example, which have made progress in allowing Americans in to their countries.
"Driven by the delta variant, cases are rising here at home, particularly among those who are unvaccinated, and appear likely continue to increase in the weeks ahead," White House press secretary Jen Psaki said.
President Joe Biden previously hinted that travel restrictions from Europe could be eased but since then, the delta variant has led to skyrocketing cases across the US such as Florida.
"While other nations, like Canada, the UK and much of the EU, have all taken steps to welcome inbound travelers this summer and rebuild jobs and local economies, the United States remains closed to one of the most important segments of the travel economy – the international inbound traveler," said Tori Emerson Barnes, US Travel Association’s Executive Vice President of public affairs and policy.
"Covid variants are of concern but closed borders have not prevented the delta variant from entering the US while vaccinations are proving incredibly durable to the virus’ evolution," Barnes added.
USTA urged the White House to review the decision again ‘in the very near term’ and allow inbound travel for the fully vaccinated.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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