Welcome to the latest edition of my Vacation Views. This week in my Horizon Scan I look at the new UK visitor entry requirements that begin on January 8, share tips on how to save money navigating foreign currency exchange, and finally I answer Ella Fitzgerald’s question of “What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve” in Sail Savings. So, let’s get started!

My Personal Experience with the UK ETA and the New Entry Requirements, How to Apply and What to Expect

I recently applied for my own UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization), and I’m happy to report that the process was incredibly fast—literally taking just two minutes to receive confirmation! You can apply for your ETA through the UK ETA app (available for both Apple and Android devices in the app store), which is simple to use and typically processes applications within hours. If you don’t have a smartphone, you can also apply through the GOV.UK website.

Although the GOV.UK website lists the cost as £10, I was charged US$13.50, and my ETA is valid until January 2027. This new requirement for non-European visitors to obtain an ETA before traveling to the UK will become mandatory starting in January 8, 2025. The ETA system impacts millions of visitors, including 6 million people from the USA, Canada, and Australia, who pass through the UK border each year.

It’s also important to stress again that this new requirement applies to all travellers to, or transiting through, the UK. So if travel through the UK is in the plans make sure you get your ETA and not have your vacation be disrupted.

As a professional keeping an eye on global travel trends, I’m also preparing for similar changes in the EU. Many of you I know are planning trips to Europe next year, and the EU is set to introduce its own digital entry requirements, which will be a key development to monitor. I promise to keep you posted!

It's time to make the most of your travel budget! According to Forbes Magazine, a great way to save money while traveling internationally is to understand how currency exchange works. With a little preparation, you can avoid unnecessary fees and ensure you’re getting the best value for your money. Here’s what you need to know to maximize your funds and get the most out of your trip.

1. Exchange Currency at Your Bank Before You Go

To avoid high fees and unfavourable rates, consider exchanging currency at your bank or credit union before you depart. Many major Canadian banks offer competitive exchange rates with no additional charges, and you can even arrange to have the foreign currency delivered to your home. Planning ahead will save you from paying extra fees at the airport or exchange counters.

2. Avoid Airport Currency Exchange Kiosks

It can be tempting to exchange money at the airport for convenience, but these kiosks often offer poor exchange rates. For example, if your bank offers £72 for $100, the airport kiosk might only give you £67, meaning you’re losing money. Use an online currency converter to compare rates before you exchange money.

3. Use Your Credit or Debit Card—but Be Aware of Extra Fees

Once you arrive at your destination, you may want to use your credit or debit card to avoid carrying large amounts of cash. However, many banks charge foreign transaction fees of up to 3% on every purchase. These fees can add up quickly, so check your card’s terms before you travel. If you want to avoid this extra cost, look for a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, especially if it offers travel rewards.

4. Always Pay in Local Currency

When shopping or dining abroad, you might be offered the option to pay in your home currency (e.g., Canadian dollars) instead of the local currency. While it may seem convenient, paying in your own currency often comes with higher conversion rates and extra fees. Always choose to pay in the local currency to get the best exchange rate.

5. Know Your ATM Withdrawal Fees and Limits

Before using an ATM while traveling, it’s essential to check with your bank about daily withdrawal limits and any out-of-network fees. Some foreign ATMs may have lower withdrawal limits than what your home bank allows, so be sure to plan accordingly. To save on repeated fees, try to withdraw larger sums at once rather than making several smaller withdrawals.

6. Use International Banking Apps for Convenience

Frequent travellers can benefit from using international banking apps like Wise (formerly TransferWise) or Revolut. These apps allow you to hold multiple currencies and transfer money across borders with minimal fees. With a multi-currency account, you can lock in favourable exchange rates and always have local currency ready when you travel.

Where to Exchange Currency While Abroad

Once you’re overseas, ATMs are generally the best option for getting foreign currency, as they tend to offer competitive exchange rates. To minimize fees, consider withdrawing larger amounts at once instead of making several smaller withdrawals. If you need foreign currency for a country that’s not your current destination, visit a larger bank in the area—they often offer better rates than smaller exchange services.

So, before your next international trip, take the time to plan how you’ll manage your money. Understanding how currency exchange works, along with being mindful of fees and transaction limits, can help you save money and avoid unnecessary expenses. The more you know before you go, the more you’ll have to spend on your travel experiences

Sail Savings and other Vacation Values

Many of the exciting Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales are still in effect - so if there is a particular destination you are interested in exploring please reach out to me and I can help find the best options. However, today I want to help answer Ella Fitzgerald’s question of “What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?” How about joining me and Amanda on a Caribbean cruise in 2025?! Cabins start at only $1,750 per person and balcony staterooms at $2,267.00 per person for 9 nights on Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth and sailing from Miami after Christmas.

A small deposit now will secure your stateroom on this sailing. Reach out to me to learn more about this itinerary and to answer any questions you may have.

That concludes this edition of my Vacation Views from Crow’s Nest. The next edition will be sent on December 22.  Again, don’t hesitate to reach out to me to provide a quote for your next dream vacation and feel free to share this with colleagues and friends!

 Bon Voyage!