Olivia Maurel, Author at SafeScore

Sustainable Travel: An Exciting Partnership to Save the Rainforests

by Olivia Maurel20/06/202220/06/2022Press Room

SafeScore and Reflora are pleased to announce their exciting new partnership. SafeScore, a B2B travel data company based in Ireland, and Reflora, an innovative sustainability start-up based in Lisbon, have joined forces to reduce carbon emissions and make travel more sustainable.

Reflora Initiative helps businesses around the world reduce their carbon footprint, whilst causing a deep ecological and social impact through globally placed forest projects. These projects are focused on the reduction and neutralisation of carbon emissions, thus contributing to the mitigation of climate change on the planet.

Through high-impact forestry projects, Reflora’s environmental investments focus on conservation and reforestation of ecosystems, and the empowerment of local communities through means of sustainable employment. In addition, the company’s many projects protect ecological havens, home to over hundreds of rare and endangered species.

Together with SafeScore, this partnership will provide the aviation industry a transparent method to improve, not only their own carbon footprint, but also that of their passengers. By purchasing affordable carbon credits through a few clicks, travelers are given the power to do their bit to save the rainforests.

*Become an environmental and social hero in just a few clicks: SafeScore and Reflora help passengers travel responsibly*

SafeScore Head of Communications, Olivia Maurel says, “We work hard to help the travel industry’s recovery, but we also know that it’s imperative for the rainforests to recover too. Our partnership with Reflora allows us to help the passenger’s journey go that one step further”.

The whole process of carbon credits is transparent and registered by international certifying companies that attest the quality of the supported projects and guarantee that the resources are being allocated to their real purpose.

Featured alongside need-to-know travel data provided by SafeScore, passengers have easy access to the carbon credit function, and can be confident that their credits are going towards reputable, and impactful environmental projects.

For the co-founder of Reflora, Nicholas Phillips, “only the joint action of all can guarantee that the planet achieves environmental balance. We believe that this partnership with SafeScore is an important step in that direction, as it provides an opportunity for all of us that are part of the aviation industry, whether as passengers, consumers, or employees, to reduce our carbon footprint”.

If you would like to contact a member of our team please send an email to: contact@gosafescore.com.

Travel Changes Across Europe

by Olivia Maurel28/09/202128/09/2021News

We take a look at some of the latest changes to travel restrictions across Europe.

Cyprus

Cyprus has moved the following countries from the red, high risk, category, to its orange list:

France
Netherlands
Portugal
Spain
Uruguay

Arrivals from these countries now only need to present a negative PCR test no older than 72 hours.

Czech Republic

Travellers to the Czech Republic from Lithuania will now be obliged to following a double testing requirement and quarantine for 5 days on arrival. This comes as arrivals from France, Spain, Monaco and the Netherlands have been moved to the medium risk, orange category. Travellers from these countries are required to complete the passenger locator form and receive a PCR, or antigen test no more than 5 days after their arrival.

These restrictions do not apply to fully vaccinated or fully recovered travellers.

Ireland

Ireland has dropped the mandatory hotel quarantine requirement for non-vaccinated travellers arriving from outside the EU+ zone, and Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. These arrivals are now required to self-quarantine for 14 days on arrival in Ireland.

If you have received the full dose of an approved vaccine, or have recovered from Covid-19 in the last 180 quarantine is not required.

Germany

Germany has moved the following countries onto its ‘high risk area’ list:

Ethiopia
Burundi
New Caledonia (French overseas territory)
St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Slovenia

The following areas are no longer considered high risk:

France – the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region
Japan
Senegal

>> EU Travel Restriction Changes

Norway

Norway has gradually started making some travel changes by easing its stringent restrictions. Starting this week, quarantine requirements will be dropped for travellers from green and orange category areas. Those arriving from red, dark red, purple, and grey countries will still be subject to a 10-day self-quarantine, although this can be shortened with a negative PCR test taken no sooner than 3 days after arrival.

Sweden

Travellers from the following non-EU/EEA countries who have a valid vaccination certificate do not need to present a negative PCR test on arrival in Sweden:

• Albania
• Andorra
• The Faroe Islands
• Israel
• Morocco
• Monaco
• Northern Macedonia
• Panama
• San Marino
• Switzerland
• Turkey
• Ukraine
• Vatican City State

The certificate must be more than 14 days old.

Travel restrictions can change quickly, and with little notice. All travellers are advised to check their trips in advance of travel.

Tagged : EU Travel / Re-Opening / Travel Restrictions

Travel to Austria: What you need to know

by Olivia Maurel22/09/202103/11/2021News / Travel

Whether you’re thinking of doing some autumnal hiking, or planning ahead to the ski season, this is what you need to know to travel to Austria.

Austria is open for visitors from low risk countries and all other countries not considered very high risk. Travellers from very high risk countries can only travel to Austria for essential reasons. These countries are currently: Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Suriname and Zimbabwe.

Travellers from all other countries need to present one of the following:

A negative PCR test result (no older than 72 hours)
Vaccination certificate of an approved vaccine.
Certificate of recovery no older than 180 days
Positive antibody test no older than 90 days

A 10 day quarantine is mandatory for unvaccinated arrivals and those without a recovery certificate when travelling from medium risk countries. These travellers must also pre-register before their trip.

In Austria

Austria’s sites are open to visitors, as are restaurants, bars, hotels, museums, and other attractions. Almost all indoor and some outdoor public spaces require you to present either a negative Covid-19 test, or proof of vaccination or recovery. From the 15th of September the following rules apply:

Antigen tests only valid for 24 hours as entry tests for restaurants, hotels etc. (this does not apply to entering the country)
FFP2 masks (instead of regular face masks) required for everyone on public transport, in cable cars, and essential businesses such as supermarkets, chemists, petrol stations, banks
FFP2 masks required in all shops and museums for those that are not vaccinated or have recovered from COVID
Proof of vaccination, past infection, or negative test required for events and gatherings of 25 people and more

Children under the age of 14 do not need to wear a mask.

Out and About

You are allowed to eat and sleep in the mountain huts, if you are planning a hiking holiday to Austria. An ‘entry test’ is a requirement however, as these huts follow the same rules as restaurants. An entry test is either, proof of vaccination or recovery, or a recent negative Covid-19 test result.

Cable cars are back up and running. Masks are a requirement, and booking in advance is advised as there are capacity limits.

>> Outdoor Travel: Our Top Picks

Spas, wellness centres, gyms and swimming pools are operational. As with restaurants and other venues, proof of vaccination, or recovery, or a negative PCR test are required for entry. You do not need to wear a mask in these establishments.

Tagged : EU Travel / Travel Advice / Travel Restrictions

Vietnam to Re-Open in October

by Olivia Maurel21/09/202117/09/2021News / Travel

The borders of Vietnam have been shut for the last 18 months, and now, the country is set for a phased re-opening in October.

Phased Re-Opening

Vietnam’s initial re-opening will be the tropical island of Phú Quốc, to the south of the mainland. Much like Thailand’s sandbox re-opening of Phuket, this scheme is designed as a boost to the local economy, and a precursor of a further re-opening down the line.

From October, fully vaccinated tourists can visit Phú Quốc, and travel by both chartered and commercial flights. A negative PCR test is a requirement.

The government is also working towards securing mutual recognitions of vaccine passports with other countries in order to facilitate travel and ensure a smooth return to the travel market.

About Phú Quốc

Considered one the best kept secrets in Vietnam, Phú Quốc is a holidaymaker’s dream. Also known as Pearl Island, the 150km long coastline offers visitors their pick of glitteringly white beaches. Dotted along the southern coastline are palm-lined resorts, restaurants, bars, and markets. It is not yet clear whether visitors will be required to stay in specific hotels, but Phú Quốc has accommodation options to suit every budget.

The marine life around Phú Quốc allows for exceptional diving and snorkeling. The coral is colourful and abundant, a myriad of species of fish, and if you’re lucky, giant clams, sea turtles, and other rarities, make for a memorable experience.

To the north of the island is the Phu Quoc National Park – over 30,000 hectares of protected forest. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the park offers visitors a wide range of activities and experiences. The dense forest has a number of hiking trails, including, for the fit, a four-hour trek and a climb up a bamboo ladder, to Mount Heaven.

Phú Quốc is the ideal tourist destination, so it is hoped that it’s re-opening will provide a healthy boost to a struggling economy.

Tagged : Re-Opening / Summer Travel / Vaccinated Travel / Vietnam

Our Top Beach Getaways for the December Holidays

by Olivia Maurel21/09/202109/06/2022Opinion / Travel

Leave Father Christmas a forwarding address this year, and soak up some sun on a beautiful beach.

Aruba

With an almost guarantee of perfect weather, Aruba is the ideal destination for sun-soaking. And it has the beaches to match. One of them, Eagle Beach, was even named TripAdvisor’s 3rd best beach in the world. Pop on a mask and snorkel and explore Aruba’s gentle, turquoise waters. There are plenty of excellent snorkeling spots around the island, Boca Catalina, and Malmok are two of them. Away from the beaches, Aruba’s mountains and caves are ideal for those wanting to get active and experience the island’s diverse landscape.

Restrictions: All travellers are required to complete the Dis/embarkation travel card online (ED Card) before being granted entry to Aruba. Visitors who do not have proof of vaccination are required to take a Covid-19 test between 3 days and 4 hours before their arrival. All travellers must purchase the Aruba Visitors Insurance. The ED Card cannot be completed without it.

Bonaire

The island of Bonaire, in the Dutch Caribbean, is a haven for those in search of a pause button. Its unspoiled beauty is emphasised through its preservation efforts – the Washington-Slagbaai National Park is one such example, providing a sanctuary for flamingos, parrots, iguanas, and other land species. Bonaire was the first Caribbean island to have a protected marine park and the diving opportunities are unapparelled. Aside from the vivid corals and kaleidoscopic reef fish, keep an eye out for pods of dolphins, eagle rays, and sea turtles.

Stay: Divi Flamingo Beach Resort

Eat: Brass Boer

Restrictions: Bonaire has a traffic light system in place for travel restrictions. Only those from safe, green listed countries do not need to be tested before arrival. A Health Certificate needs to be completed by all travellers between 72 and 48 hours of departure.

Dominican Republic

Beaches, beaches, everywhere. The Dominican Republic is home to the Caribbean’s longest beach coastline. At 48km long, you’re guaranteed to get a sun lounger spot. If you’re looking for a wilder side to the Caribbean, then the Samaná Peninsula has it all. Rainforests, untouched beaches, and verdant mountains all play a role in a region that specializes in ecotourism. If you fancy wandering narrow, historical streets past sleek, modern art galleries then head to the capital Santo Domingo to learn more about the Dominican Republic’s culture and history.

Stay: Cosón Bay Hotel and Residences

Eat: Pueblo de los Pescadores

Restrictions: Most travellers do not need to present a negative PCR test on arrival. Travellers from some higher risk countries are required to present either a negative PCR test result no older than 72 hours, or, a complete vaccination card dated no sooner than 3 weeks before arrival. All travellers must complete the electronic exit and entry form.

>> Visit the Maldives – It’s Open!

Seychelles

The Seychelles archipelago consists of over 100 islands and atolls scattered across the Indian Ocean, enough to keep even the most curious traveller satisfied. The innermost are the main islands which have more amenities. Day trips can be arranged to explore uninhabited atolls such as such as Conception Island which is home to pristine beaches and undisturbed ecosystems. Situated on Curieuse Island is the Curieuse Marine National Park. Here, visitors can enjoy activities such as bird watching, nature trails, snorkeling, and diving. The latter two will introduce you to the breathtaking coral life, and maybe even some sea turtles.

Stay: Hotel L’Archipel

Eat: Moutya

Restrictions: All travellers to the Seychelles must provide a negative PCR test no older than 72 hours before departure. All prospective travellers must apply for Travel Authorization via the Seychelles official site. All arrivals must present proof of sufficient valid travel insurance for the duration of their stay. The Seychelles are open to visitors from all countries except: Brazil, India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Cote D’Ivoire & Guinea.

Zanzibar

If you’re looking for a bit of everything – wildlife, history, gastronomy, and tropical beaches, then head to Zanzibar. Visit Stone Town, a UNESCO world heritage site with a vivid and complex history. Other eye-catching landmarks in Zanzibar town include the Old Dispensary which has a beautiful lattice-work exterior, and the Old Fort, which was built by Omani Arabs in the 17th century. Zanzibar’s beaches each have their own character. On the island of Pemba, in particular, you’ll find a paradisiacal haven. Startlingly white beaches, and lush forests – the tranquility makes it the ideal beach escape.

Stay: Aiyana Resort and Spa

Eat: Pemba Moonlight

Restrictions: All travellers must complete the online registration form before arriving in Zanzibar. All arrivals must present the negative results of a PCR test which is no older than 96 hours prior to arrival. Travellers from, or who have travelled through, higher risk areas will be tested again at their own cost on their arrival (USD25). Children under 5 are exempt from testing requirements.

Tagged : Summer Travel / Travel / Travel Inspired

The EU Recognizes Digital Certificates From More Countries

by Olivia Maurel20/09/202117/09/2021News / Travel

The EU Digital COVID Certificate entered into circulation in July of this year. The system, that allows users to store their vaccine, recovery, and testing details on their phones, is designed to facilitate travel both across the EU and within EU countries. The EU is now recognizing the digital certificates of a number of third party countries.

What is an EU Digital Covid Certificate and how do I get one?

The digital certificate acts as proof that the user has either been vaccinated by a vaccine approved by the EMA, has recovered and has a certificate issued by a medical authority, or, has received a recent negative PCR test result no older than 72 hours. Each user receives a unique QR code, which can either be stored on their phones, or printed out and kept as a hard copy. Additional information included on in the system are personal details such as your full name, date of birth, and the date the certificate was issued. The system is secure, free of charge, and valid in all EU countries.

The digital certificate should be issued by your country’s health authorities. Either through testing centres, medical institutes or, online e-health portals, such as an official Covid-19 website. In the case of a minor, parents can either store their testing/recovery information on their own profiles, or the child can have their own.

>> Applying for a French Vaccine Certificate for non-EU Visitors

Which digital certificates are recognized by the EU?

Aside from the 27 EU member states, the certificates from the following countries, regions, and principalities are also recognized by the digital certificate system:

Albania
Andorra
The Faroe Islands
Iceland
Israel
Liechtenstein
Monaco
Morocco

North Macedonia
Norway
Panama
San Marino
Switzerland
Turkey
Ukraine
Vatican City

Tagged : COVID-19 passport / EU Travel / Green List / Re-Opening / Travel Restrictions / Vaccinated Travel

The US Issues Travel Warnings for More Countries

by Olivia Maurel20/09/202117/09/2021News

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the USA has issued risk level travel warnings for a number of countries thanks to rising case numbers.

CDC Travel Warnings

The CDC monitors Covid-19 case numbers per capita and issues travel warnings and advisories based on these figures. Countries can fall into one of four levels. These are:

Level 4 ‘Do Not Travel’ – Covid-19 levels are considered to be very high, and travellers avoid visiting these countries. If travel is essential, then the CDC advises being fully vaccinated.
Level 3 – High levels of Covid-19 cases have been recorded in these destinations, and nonessential travel for unvaccinated people is not advised.
Level 2 – Moderate levels of Covid-19 cases. Travellers should take all precautions, and preferably only travel if fully vaccinated.
Level 1 – Low levels of Covid-19 have been recorded in these countries, however the CDC still advises all travellers to be fully vaccinated before their trip.

>>US Travellers Face Restrictions from these EU Countries

What Has Changed?

The CDC has recently added the following countries to the very high risk, ‘Do Not Travel‘ list:

Albania
Belize
Grenada
Guatemala
Israel
Lithuania
Mauritius
St. Kitts and Nevis
Serbia
Slovenia

Other popular destinations already on the Level Four list are: Saint Lucia, the Bahamas, France, Iceland, Thailand, and Greece.

The following countries have been added to the CDC’s Level Three ‘high risk‘ list:

Australia
Brazil
Ethiopia
Romania

This is a positive sign for Brazil as its risk level has been decreased from level 4. These countries join a number of Caribbean destinations already on the list, including, but not limited to, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Turks and Caicos and Bermuda.

>>EU Travel Restriction Changes

Newly added to the CDC’s Level 2, ‘moderate risk‘ list are:

Slovakia
The Dominican Republic

There have been no new additions to the Level 1, low risk list. Currently on the low risk list are holiday destinations such as Hungary, Madagascar, New Caledonia, and Saint Pierre and Miquelon.

Travel warnings can be issued and changed at any moment. All travellers are advised to check their routes before booking a trip.

Tagged : Travel / Travel Advice / Travel Restrictions / US Travel

EU Travel Restriction Changes

by Olivia Maurel15/09/202115/09/2021News / Travel

EU travel restrictions change rapidly, we take a look at the latest updates.

Austria

Austria has removed the following countries from its ‘safe’ list:

Albania
Armenia
Azerbaijan
Brunei
Israel
Japan
Kosovo
Montenegro
North Macedonia
Serbia
Thailand
United States

Arrivals from these countries must now present either, a negative PCR test result, proof of vaccination, or proof of recovery. Travellers who can show proof of vaccination or recovery do not need to registered for pre-travel clearance. Unvaccinated arrivals are required to self-isolate for 10 days.

As from the 15th of September 2021, the following are considered areas of variants of concern:

Brazil
Chile
Costa Rica
Suriname
Zimbabwe

Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, and Uruguay have been removed from this list. Travellers who have been in one of these countries in the 10 days prior to travel will not be allowed to enter Austria. Exemptions such as for Austrian residents and citizens, are in place.

Children under the age of 12 are exempt from all testing and vaccination requirements.

>> US Travellers Face Restrictions from these EU Countries

Belgium

From the 11th of September, Belgium has placed the following EU/Schengen regions on its red list, indicating a higher epidemiological risk:

Croatia: Adriatic Croatia, City of Zagreb, North Croatia
Norway: Trøndelag
Caribbean Netherlands: Bonaire

Germany

Germany has removed the following regions and countries from it’s high-risk list:

Argentina
Bolivia
Ecuador
France – the regions Corsica, Occitanie and the overseas department Réunion
Greece – the regions Crete and South Aegean
Namibia
Oman
Paraguay
Peru

New high-risk areas that have been added to the high-risk list this week are:

Bosnia and Herzegovina
Grenada
Nicaragua
Norway – the counties Oslo and Viken

Travellers who have been in a high-risk area within 10 days before entering Germany are required to quarantine for 10 days on arrival (at home). Travellers with proof of either vaccination or recovery do not need to quarantine.

All arrivals over the age of 12 must carry with them either: a negative PCR test result; a vaccine certificate; a recovery certificate.

Greece

In Greece, domestic travel on planes, trains, busses now requires all passengers over the age of 12 to provide one of the following:

Proof of full vaccination certificate which was issued no sooner than 14 days prior to travel
Proof of recovery certificate valid within the last 6 months
Negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before the scheduled time of arrival in their destination
A rapid antigen detection test taken within 48 hours before the scheduled time of arrival in their destination

Minors between the ages of 4 and 11 can have a self-test which is free-of-charge and provided by the state.

Spain

Spain has placed the whole of France on its high risk list. This list is valid until the 19th of September. Arrivals from France are required to present either a negative PCR test, or certificates of either vaccination or recovery.

EU travel restrictions are constantly changing, so we advise travellers to double check the requirements before their trip.

Tagged : EU Travel / Re-Opening / Summer Travel / Travel Restrictions

Travel to Europe: Where can UK travellers go?

by Olivia Maurel15/09/202115/09/2021News / Travel

Travel to Europe became trickier as the UK left the EU, and currently, Covid-19 restrictions are making it a bit harder still. Where can UK travellers visit without quarantine? Where can non-vaccinated travellers travel to? We take a look.

Which countries require quarantine for non-vaccinated UK travellers?

UK travellers are allowed to visit Austria. All travellers must complete the online pre-travel registration form – this must be done no earlier than 72 hours before travel. Additionally, passengers are required to present on arrival, either: proof of full vaccination certificate; a recovery certificate no older than 180 days; or a negative PCR test no older than 72 hours; or a rapid antigen test no older than 48 hours

Non-vaccinated travellers are required to quarantine for 10 days in their residence or location of their choice. They can leave quarantine if they test negative from day 5 of their trip.

Vaccinated and recovered UK travellers can also visit the Czech Republic and do not face any quarantine, or testing requirements. Vaccinated arrivals must present proof of a full dose of an approved vaccine administered no earlier than 14 days before arrival. Recovered arrivals are required to present a recovery certificate that is no older than 180 days.

Non-vaccinated travellers are required to take a PCR test no sooner than 5 days and no later than 14 days after arrival. Self-isolation is required until a negative test result is received

Cyprus is open to vaccinated and recovered travellers from the UK. Vaccinated travellers are exempt from restrictions provided they have received a double dose (or single, in the case of J&J) of an approved vaccine which was administered in an approved country. All passengers must complete the registration form, and receive the CyprusFlyPass within 48 hours of their departure to the country.

Non-vaccinated travellers are required to present a test, and be tested again on arrival. Self-isolation is needed until a negative test result is obtained.

Only essential travel to France is allowed for non-vaccinated travellers from the UK. These arrivals are required to have a negative PCR test, and pledge to self-isolate for 7 days. If you are vaccinated, then you are allowed to travel to France without any restrictions, provided you present proof of full vaccination.

Countries with no quarantine requirements

UK travellers don't face quarantine restrictions when visiting Portugal — UK travellers don’t face quarantine requirements when travelling to Portugal

Greece does not require any UK travellers to self-isolate on arrival, regardless of their vaccination or recovery status. If you haven’t been vaccinated, or don’t have a recovery certificate then you are required to present either a PCR, or an antigen test on arrival.

If you present either, vaccination or recovery certificates, or a negative test result taken in the last 48 hours, then self-isolation isn’t needed when entering Italy from the UK. A Passenger Locator Form must be completed prior to arrival.

The same rules apply to UK travellers wanting to visit Ireland. If a negative test result is used for entry, then it must be a PCR test no older than 72 hours. If you are travelling with a recovery certificate, then it cannot be less than 11 and more than 180 days old.

Portugal and Spain are open to travellers from the UK. Those not travelling with a vaccine certificate are required to provide a negative PCR test no older than 72 hours. The Portuguese authorities require all arrivals to complete the Passenger Locator Card. Prior to travelling to Spain, all passengers need to complete the Health Control Form and receive the QR code.

>>Travel to Spain: Everything you need to know

Tagged : EU Travel / Travel Restrictions / UK Travel / Vaccinated Travel

Travel to Rodrigues – An Island Escape

by Olivia Maurel14/09/202115/09/2021Travel

If you’re searching for Indian Ocean islands to escape it all, then the island of Rodrigues is just the ticket. According to Mauritians, the unspoiled beauty of Rodrigues is what Mauritius was 50 years ago. So, experience both sides of the coin, and while you’re in paradise, travel to Rodrigues. Just over an hour away by air, and you’re in paradise of yesteryear.

About Rodrigues

The Mauritian territory is located 650km from Mauritius, but, beyond the beautiful beaches, it couldn’t be more different. While Mauritius has drawn a steady stream of tourism, and development over the last few decades, Rodrigues has not. The ultimate result of this is a tropical island without too much of the modern-day trappings of development.

Rodrigues has a small population – under 40,000 inhabitants – and the pace of life is slow, perfect for a holiday escape. The official language of the island is English, however, French and Créole are the most widely spoken.

The island’s natural beauty has been kept intact, and, as a small volcanic outcrop in the Indian Ocean, it’s surrounded by a turquoise lagoon and coral reefs teeming with marine life. Volcanic mountains, cloaked with rich vegetation provide ideal hiking routes, while coves and caves make for great exploring along the coastline.

Explore

There are plenty of islets dotted around Rodrigues — Explore the islets dotted around Rodrigues

For a small space (the island is only about 18km in length), Rodrigues packs a lot in.

The Grande Montagne Nature Reserve offers panoramic views over the island. Wind through the trails of the forest to reach the 300-350m high summit. The nature reserve is a prime spot to view the island’s rare plant life, endemic trees, and previously endangered bird species.

After working up a sweat, cool down on a boat trip to Île aux Cocos, one of the smaller islands neighbouring Rodrigues. White crystal white sands and turquoise seas are somewhat ubiquitous in this region, Île aux Cocos’ charm lies in its size – 1,2km in length and 250m across. Ensuring that you feel like you truly have escaped it all. You’ll find as your companions on your day trip, seabirds of varying species.

You’ll feel like you stepped into the pages of Treasure Island when visiting Trou D’Argent. Flanked by rugged cliffs, protecting pristine waters and picturesque beach, this little cove is only accessible by foot. Indian Ocean pirates and corsairs once sailed these waters, and it’s easy to imagine them choosing this spot to hide their loot. This spot is an ideal day trip for families as the path is easy-going and well marked.

The island has plenty to offer visitors, from intricate cave systems, to giant tortoises, and incredible diving, a few days spent here while on holiday in Mauritius is worth the trip.

Your Visit

When to visit: Rodrigues usually experiences pleasant weather all year round. November to April are the summer months, and temperatures usually peak at the mid-30^oCs. The winter months, between May and October see temperatures peak at the mid-20^oCs. Cyclone season usually runs from December to May, although this is often difficult to predict.

Where to stay: The island offers a range of accommodation types, although you won’t find the sprawling resorts you would in Mauritius. We love the charming beachside boutique hotel, Tekoma, or, the relaxed, garden retreat of La Belle Rodriguaise, with endless views over the ocean.

How to get there: Rodrigues is a Mauritian territory, so travel via the main island. Air Mauritius is due to restart flights to Rodrigues soon. Under usual circumstances, the airline operates daily return flights between Rodrigues and Mauritius.

Current restrictions: Until the 30th of September, fully vaccinated travellers can enjoy an in-resort stay at select hotels for 7 days. PCR tests: 3-7 days prior to travel. There is still a travel ban in place for arrivals from some countries.

From the 1st of October, Mauritius fully re-opens to vaccinated travellers. After presenting a PCR test no older than 72 hours, these arrivals are free to explore the island. Non-vaccinated travellers need to quarantine in their hotel rooms for the first 14 days.

>> Travel to Mauritius: Now Open to South Africans

Tagged : Summer Travel / Travel / Travel Inspired