If you’re planning to travel to Singapore soon, you may have heard about the “travel bubble” concept.
This is a new initiative that aims to allow travel between countries while keeping the risk of COVID-19 transmission low. The travel bubble is a way to re-open borders and revive the tourism industry in a safe and controlled manner.
The Singapore-Hong Kong Air Travel Bubble is one of the first travel bubbles to be launched in the world. This bubble allows people to travel between Singapore and Hong Kong without the need for quarantine as long as they meet specific eligibility criteria and follow the pre-departure and arrival procedures.
The travel bubble has been designed to ensure the safety of travellers and the local communities and to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Key Takeaways
- The travel bubble is a new initiative that allows travel between countries while keeping the risk of COVID-19 transmission low.
- The Singapore-Hong Kong Air Travel Bubble is one of the first travel bubbles to be launched in the world.
- To be eligible to travel under the travel bubble, you must meet certain criteria and follow the pre-departure and arrival procedures.
Understanding the Travel Bubble Concept
If you’re planning a trip to Singapore soon, you might have heard about the concept of a travel bubble. This exciting new development in the world of travel has been gaining popularity as countries try to find ways to reopen their borders while still keeping their citizens safe from COVID-19.
In this section, we’ll explain what a travel bubble is and how it works.
Origin and Development
The idea of a travel bubble originated in the early days of the pandemic when countries started closing their borders to prevent the spread of COVID-19. As the situation improved in some countries, there was a need to reopen borders to kickstart the tourism industry. The travel bubble concept was born out of this need.
The first travel bubble was established between Australia and New Zealand in October 2020. Since then, many other countries have joined the bandwagon, including Singapore and Hong Kong. Singapore and Hong Kong’s air travel bubble was supposed to start in November 2020 but was postponed due to a rise in COVID-19 cases in Hong Kong. The travel bubble was finally launched on 22 November 2021.
Key Features of Travel Bubbles
A travel bubble is essentially an agreement between two or more countries to open their borders to each other. The countries in the travel bubble have to demonstrate that they have successfully contained the spread of COVID-19 within their respective borders. The travel bubble allows citizens of these countries to travel freely between them without having to quarantine upon arrival.
To be a part of a travel bubble, countries have to agree on a set of public health measures that they will adhere to. These measures usually include testing protocols, contact tracing, and quarantine procedures. The measurements are designed to ensure that the risk of COVID-19 transmission is minimised.
In conclusion, the travel bubble concept is an exciting development in the world of travel. It allows countries to reopen their borders while still keeping their citizens safe from COVID-19. If you’re planning a trip to Singapore, the travel bubble with Hong Kong might be an option for you to consider.
Eligibility and Requirements
Eligibility Criteria for Travellers
If you are planning to travel to Singapore under the travel bubble arrangement, you must meet specific eligibility criteria. First and foremost, you must be a resident of either Singapore or Hong Kong. You must also have remained in Singapore or Hong Kong for the last 14 consecutive days before departure. If you have travelled to any other countries or regions in the past 14 days, you will not be eligible to travel under the travel bubble arrangement.
Travel Documents and Insurance
You will need to have a valid passport and a return ticket to travel under the travel bubble arrangement. Additionally, you must have travel insurance that covers COVID-19-related medical expenses, including hospitalization, quarantine, and repatriation.
It is advisable to purchase travel insurance that provides coverage for trip cancellation or interruption due to COVID-19-related reasons.
Health and Safety Protocols
To ensure the health and safety of all travellers, several health and safety protocols have been put in place. You will be required to take a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test before departure and upon arrival in Singapore.
You must also download and activate the TraceTogether contact tracing app on your mobile device. Additionally, you must submit an electronic health declaration form before your arrival in Singapore.
Quarantine and Testing
If you test negative for COVID-19 on both the pre-departure and on-arrival tests, you will not be required to undergo quarantine. However, if you test positive for COVID-19, you will be required to undergo medical treatment and quarantine at a designated facility.
Vaccinated Travellers
If you are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, you may be exempted from some of the pre-departure and on-arrival testing requirements. However, you will still need to take a pre-departure PCR test and activate the TraceTogether app on your mobile device.
SG Arrival Card
You will need to complete the SG Arrival Card before your arrival in Singapore. The SG Arrival Card is an electronic form that collects your personal and travel information. It is advisable to complete the SG Arrival Card at least 3 days before your arrival in Singapore to avoid delays at the immigration checkpoint.
That’s all you need to know about the eligibility and requirements for travelling under the travel bubble arrangement in Singapore.
Singapore-Hong Kong Air Travel Bubble
If you’re planning a trip to Hong Kong from Singapore, you’re in luck! The Singapore-Hong Kong Air Travel Bubble (ATB) is now in place, allowing you to travel between the two destinations without the need for quarantine.
Flight Arrangements
Under the ATB, designated flights by Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific will operate between Singapore and Hong Kong. These flights will be subjected to stringent health and safety measures to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.
Quota and Booking Details
There is a quota for the number of travellers allowed on each flight, so it’s important to book your tickets early to avoid disappointment. You can book your tickets directly with the airlines or through your preferred travel agent.
Safety Measures in Place
To ensure the safety of all passengers and crew, strict safe distancing measures will be enforced throughout the journey. All passengers must wear masks at all times, except when eating or drinking. The flights will also be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected before and after each journey.
So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready for an exciting trip to Hong Kong with the Singapore-Hong Kong Air Travel Bubble!
Pre-Departure and Arrival Procedures
If you are planning to travel under the Singapore Travel Bubble, there are certain procedures you need to follow before departing and upon arrival. Here is what you need to know:
Testing and Documentation
Before departing from Singapore, you need to book a pre-departure COVID-19 test with any clinic found on this list. Make sure to check with the clinic on the type of test administered, cost, and estimated turnaround time for the release of the report. You also need to ensure that the trial and report meet the requirements of your destination country.
In addition to the pre-departure test, you are required to submit the SG Arrival Card within three days (including the day of arrival) before arriving in Singapore. The SG Arrival Card is a mandatory e-Service that collects personal information and health declarations from all travellers entering Singapore. You can submit the SG Arrival Card online or via the Visit Singapore Travel Guide app.
Arrival in Destination City
Upon arrival in your destination city, you may be required to take an on-arrival COVID-19 test. The requirements vary depending on the destination country, so make sure to check the latest information before travelling.
In Singapore, you are required to download the TraceTogether app and the LeaveHomeSafe app. The TraceTogether app is a digital contact tracing tool that helps to identify and isolate potential COVID-19 cases. The LeaveHomeSafe app is a digital check-in system that logs your entry and exit from public places. Both apps are mandatory for all visitors and residents in Singapore.
Overall, the pre-departure and arrival procedures for the Singapore Travel Bubble are designed to keep you and others safe during your travels. By following these procedures, you can enjoy a hassle-free travel experience and make the most out of your trip.
Living in the Bubble
If you are planning to visit Singapore during the travel bubble, there are a few things you need to know about living in the bubble. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your stay.
Accommodation and Dining
When it comes to accommodation, you can choose to stay in a hotel or serviced apartment. Most hotels and serviced apartments in Singapore have implemented strict health and safety measures to ensure the safety of their guests. You can also choose to dine out in restaurants, cafes, and bars that have implemented safe management measures.
To ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable dining experience, make sure to check the restaurant’s capacity limits and make a reservation in advance. You should also wear a mask when not eating or drinking and maintain a safe distance from other diners.
Leisure and Activities
There are plenty of leisure activities that you can enjoy during your stay in Singapore. You can visit tourist attractions, go shopping, or explore the city’s parks and gardens. Most tourist attractions have implemented safe management measures, such as limiting capacity and implementing temperature checks.
If you want to go shopping, make sure to check the mall’s capacity limits and safe management measures. You should also wear a mask at all times and maintain a safe distance from other shoppers.
When it comes to leisure travel, you can also consider taking a day trip to nearby attractions such as Sentosa Island or Pulau Ubin. However, make sure to check the attraction’s capacity limits and safe management measures before visiting.
Overall, living in a travel bubble can be an exciting and enjoyable experience. Just make sure to follow the safe management measures and guidelines to ensure that you have a safe and memorable stay in Singapore.
Additional Considerations for Specific Groups
Work Permit and S-Pass Holders
If you are a Work Permit or S-Pass holder, you may be wondering about the travel bubble arrangements. You should note that you can travel to Hong Kong under the travel bubble arrangements if you are a resident of Singapore and have no travel history to any country other than Hong Kong in the past 14 days before departure.
However, if you are a resident of Hong Kong, you must be a Work Permit or S-Pass holder in the construction, marine shipyard, or process sectors to be eligible to travel to Singapore under the travel bubble arrangements.
Medical and Business Travel
If you are travelling for medical or business purposes, you should note that there are no restrictions on the purpose of travel under the travel bubble arrangements. However, you should take note that the travel bubble arrangements only apply to air travel between Singapore and Hong Kong. If you are travelling by land or sea, you will need to comply with the entry requirements of the respective countries.
For medical travel, you should also note that you will need to comply with the relevant health protocols and guidelines in both Singapore and Hong Kong. You should also check with your healthcare provider to ensure that you have the necessary medical documentation and insurance coverage for your trip.
For business travel, you should also note that you will need to comply with the relevant business protocols and guidelines in both Singapore and Hong Kong. You should also check with your employer to ensure that you have the necessary documentation and insurance coverage for your trip.
Overall, if you are a Work Permit or S-Pass holder or travelling for medical or business purposes, you should ensure that you have the necessary documentation and comply with the relevant protocols and guidelines in both Singapore and Hong Kong.
Global Impact and Future Prospects
International Relations and Economy
The travel bubble between Singapore and Hong Kong is expected to have a positive impact on the economy of both countries. As the first travel bubble in Asia, it has garnered attention from other countries, and there is a possibility that more travel bubbles will be formed in the future. This could lead to a boost in international relations and economic growth.
With the success of the Singapore-Hong Kong travel bubble, other countries such as New Zealand and Australia have expressed interest in forming similar travel bubbles with Singapore. This could lead to a revival of the travel industry and a boost in the economy.
Potential Expansion and Unilateral Openings
The Singapore-Hong Kong travel bubble is just the beginning, and there is a possibility that more countries will be added to the list in the future. However, this will depend on the risk profile of each country and whether they meet the necessary criteria for a travel bubble.
The Singapore Transport Minister has stated that unilateral border openings are also a possibility, which would allow travellers from selected countries to enter Singapore without quarantine. This could further boost the economy and lead to an increase in tourism.
It is important to note that vaccination plays a crucial role in the expansion of travel bubbles. As more people get vaccinated, the risk of transmission decreases, and it becomes safer to travel. Therefore, it is likely that countries with high vaccination rates will be given priority when it comes to forming travel bubbles.
In conclusion, the Singapore-Hong Kong travel bubble has the potential to lead to a revival of the travel industry and boost the economy. With the possibility of more travel bubbles and unilateral border openings, it is an exciting time for the travel industry.
Practical Guide for Travellers
If you’re planning to travel to Singapore under the travel bubble arrangement, here’s what you need to know to ensure a smooth journey.
Checklist Before Travelling
Before you travel to Singapore, make sure you have the following:
- A valid passport with at least six months validity
- A valid visa (if required)
- A negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours before departure
- A mobile device with the TraceTogether app installed
- Travel insurance that covers COVID-19-related medical expenses
Make sure you have completed all the necessary procedures and obtained the required documents before your departure. Failure to do so may result in denied entry.
Tips for a Smooth Journey
To ensure a smooth journey, follow these tips:
- Check the latest travel advisories and guidelines issued by the Singapore government and your airline before departure.
- Arrive at the airport at least three hours before departure to allow sufficient time for check-in and security clearance.
- Wear a mask at all times and maintain a safe distance from others.
- Follow the instructions of airport and airline staff.
- Keep your TraceTogether app turned on and ensure that your mobile device is fully charged.
- Pack light and avoid bringing prohibited items such as weapons and drugs.
Remember that the travel bubble arrangement is subject to change based on the risk profile of the two countries. Keep yourself updated with the latest news and guidelines to ensure a hassle-free journey.
According to the Transport Minister, travellers are required to undergo COVID-19 testing upon arrival in Singapore. The test will be conducted at the airport, and the result will be available within 24 hours. If the result is negative, you can proceed with your journey. If the result is positive, you will be required to undergo medical treatment at your own expense.
Make sure you have all the necessary documents and follow the guidelines to ensure a smooth journey to Singapore under the travel bubble arrangement.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Singapore travel bubble is an exciting opportunity for you to travel to Hong Kong without the need for quarantine. The travel bubble is set to resume on 26 May 2021 after numerous delays and false starts. You can now plan your trip with confidence, knowing that you will not be required to quarantine upon arrival in Hong Kong.
Before travelling, it is important to familiarise yourself with the travel requirements and guidelines. You will be required to take COVID-19 tests before departing from Singapore, upon arriving in Hong Kong, and before departing from Hong Kong. You can find more information on these requirements on the Singapore-Hong Kong air travel bubble FAQ.
It is important to note that the travel bubble may be subject to change depending on the COVID-19 situation in both Singapore and Hong Kong. Therefore, it is advisable to keep yourself updated on any changes or updates to the travel bubble guidelines.
Overall, the Singapore travel bubble is an exciting opportunity for you to travel to Hong Kong without the need for quarantine. Make sure you plan your trip carefully and adhere to the travel requirements to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exciting new updates are there for the Singapore travel bubble in 2023?
As of December 29, 2023, there are no new updates regarding the Singapore travel bubble. However, it is vital to stay updated with the latest news and regulations regarding the travel bubble.
Are there any specific travelling regulations I should know before flying to Singapore?
Yes, there are specific travelling regulations that you should be aware of before flying to Singapore. All travellers entering Singapore must have a valid negative Covid-19 test result taken within 72 hours before departure. Additionally, travellers must have a good travel insurance policy that covers Covid-19-related medical expenses.
Is a pre-departure COVID test necessary for transiting through Singapore now?
Yes, a pre-departure Covid test is necessary for transiting through Singapore now. All travellers transiting through Singapore must have a valid negative Covid-19 test result taken within 72 hours before departure.
From April 1st, can vaccinated travellers look forward to entering Singapore without needing to quarantine?
As of December 29, 2023, there are no updates regarding vaccinated travellers entering Singapore without needing to quarantine. However, it is vital to stay updated with the latest news and regulations regarding the travel bubble.
If I test positive for Covid while in Singapore, what are the guidelines for going out?
If you test positive for COVID-19 while in Singapore, you must undergo medical treatment at a designated hospital. Leaving the hospital will not be possible on your terms. It can only happen until you have fully recovered and tested negative for Covid-19.
What should travellers expect regarding safety protocols within the Singapore travel bubble?
Travellers should expect to adhere to strict safety protocols within the Singapore travel bubble. This includes wearing a mask at all times in public places, practising good hand hygiene, and maintaining a safe distance from others.
Additionally, travellers must download and activate the TraceTogether app for contact tracing purposes.
