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The Department of Homeland Security runs Trusted Traveler Programs across two main departments: Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
The CBP’s International Trusted Traveler Programs provide expedited cross-border travel for pre-approved, low risk travelers and commercial entities through dedicated lanes and kiosks across four specific areas:
Global Entry: Travel abroad and move quickly through CBP processing when returning to the US
NEXUS: Travel between the U.S. and Canada
SENTRI: Travel into the U.S. from Mexico via land
FAST: Import commercial shipments between U.S./Mexico or U.S./Canada
The TSA’s Domestic Trusted Traveler Program – TSA Pre-Check - can be applied for separately, but is accessible by eligible members of Global Entry, NEXUS and SENTRI:
TSA Pre-Check: Domestic expedited screening process that allows eligible travelers to move more quickly through security without removing shoes, laptops, liquids, belts and light jackets etc.
As travelers are more concerned about flying during the times of COVID-19, one of the key issues is determining how the air on planes can possibly spread infection.
Before getting into the discussion, always keep in mind these key Considerations to stay as safe and healthy as possible on planes:
As travelers are more concerned about flying during the times of COVID-19, one of the key issues is determining how the air on planes can possibly spread infection.
Before getting into the discussion, always keep in mind these key Considerations to stay as safe and healthy as possible on planes:
A good place to start for evolving information and regular updates is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Zika page. The About section specifically provides an overview, FAQs, what is known and what you should know etc
CDC’s Interactive World Map lets you search for location-specific information with Zika risk
For more real-time updates, I follow the CDC and CDC Travel Health and also search using the hashtag #Zika
My favorite sites to start brainstorming tend to be those that give a variety of recommended travel ideas from destinations themselves to activities, attractions and accommodations etc. It is also helpful if they have powerful visuals and regularly updated social media platforms. To see our list of recommended sites with some specific favorite lists within them, click here.
It is helpful to remember that the act of planning leisure can be the best part of the experience because we tend to enjoy consuming the anticipation of an experience just as much as or even more than the leisure event itself. Remember to share your experience afterwards as well.
While everyone’s personal and professional situation may be different, I would consider starting with the following suggestions to better hone a vacation mindset: