In this post:
US extends mask mandate
Airlines in the US had been lobbying fr the federal mask mandate to be removed for public transport. The mandate means that currently, all forms of public transport including taxis and Ubers as well as flights require you to wear a mask. This is despite CDC guidance that says you do not need to wear a mask indoors in most circumstances. The mask mandate had been due to expire on 18 April but Biden has decided to extend the mandate for a further two weeks. This is disappointing but at least it’s only for two weeks rather than the usual month.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said it was extending the order, until 3 May to allow more time to study the BA.2 omicron subvariant.
A spokesman said
“In order to assess the potential impact the rise of cases has on severe disease, including hospitalizations and deaths, and health care system capacity, the CDC order will remain in place at this time,”
Greece removes travel restrictions
Greece will lift all COVID-related entry requirements for all international arrivals from 2 May. This means that you will no longer be required to show proof of vaccination or a negative test.
Greece is also suspending use of its COVID Pass, so you will no longer have to show proof of vaccination, a negative test or a recovery certificate to enter public indoor and outdoor spaces. Masks will not be required inside either from 1 May.
Hilton Amex offer
There’s a new offer for Hilton which I received on my BA Premium Amex. If you stay at one of the participating Hilton hotels and you get £50 back when you spend £200 or more. It does not all need to be in a single transaction either. The Hiltons included are within Europe. It includes some great options such as the Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam, The Biltmore Mayfair, The Westminster in London, Fellows House in Cambridge and Hilton Lake Como.
You need to book, stay and pay by 30 June 2022 to qualify. This Offer is only available to the first 55,000 Cardmembers to save the Offer so it’s worth saving now if you think you may use it.
BA Free AirPortr trial
British Airways have been trialling giving people on certain flights free access to luggage collection and delivery company Airportr. Reader A wrote in with the details. I have used Airportr pre-Covid and it’s a very handy service that effectively allows you to travel as if you are hand baggage only for departure from Heathrow. They will pick up your luggage and check it in for you providing you have your mobile boarding pass. This usually costs between around £30-50.
The email says that it will be available for selected people travelling 15-17 April though it’s not clear which people are “selected”.
Enjoy complimentary baggage collection with AirPortr
Have your bags collected and travel light
We have partnered with AirPortr to offer you a complimentary baggage collection so you can travel light on your upcoming flight from London Heathrow Terminal 5.
This exclusive service is available for London collection addresses and parts of Surrey, whether this is from your home, hotel or office. You can choose a convenient pick-up time and track your bags from doorstep to plane.
5 comments
With regards to Greece and the lifting of the mask use obligation, the only exceptions to the measure will be on all means of public transport (buses, trains, ships – indoors – and airplanes), where it will be mandatory. Additionally, the new easing of measures is only until 31 August in case anyone is thinking of a September holiday.
The BA offer doesn’t apply if you used a similar one previously it seems. They continue to frustrate their Honors members
Although it’s not a BA offer, it’s an AmEx offer… which I assume has applicability conditions laid down by Hilton.
I think it’s good to know who one should be annoyed with
I have been offered free Airportr by BA on several occasions recently. The offer has been going on for a good while now. I haven’t tried it as I’m a staunch handbaggage traveller
Thanks Sue for the Greece info. A holiday in a mask doesn’t sound like a holiday to me…so Greece is definitely off the list!
Comments are closed.