Updated on 5/20/21
Last week the CDC announced an exciting new guideline: fully vaccinated people do not need to wear a mask in most indoor and outdoor places.
While this is certainly great news, it's important to keep in mind that this guideline does not override state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules, and regulations, including local business and workplace guidances that state masks are required. For up-to-date information on your destination's COVID policies and requirements, check out the AmTrav Covid Resource Center.
We want to make sure all travelers understand that masks are still required on planes, buses, trains, and at airports, vaccinated or not (the TSA extended this requirement until at least September 13th). Ride share companies like Uber and Lyft are still requiring them too.
However, the good news keeps on coming as earlier this week the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) - which represents 80% of all hotel franchises including Marriott, Hyatt, Wyndham, Hilton, and others - announced that their new stance on masks is in line with the updated CDC guideline. This means that fully vaccinated guests no longer need to wear a mask or physically distance in most of those hotels.
While things slowly start to get back to normal and we allow ourselves to see a light at the end of the tunnel, it's still vital to take precautions while traveling. So don't forget to pack your mask before heading out for your next business trip, and be sure to wash your hands and keep your distance!