‘Social media via Linkedin and facebook were important tools in communicating, the excitement of travel along with actual information regarding new travel processes,’ says Galloway.

‘Preparing to travel does take a little more time, with some destinations requiring online forms prior to arrival. All airlines required proof of my international vaccination certificate. In some placess information regarding the earlier two vaccinations was also required.  The original vaccination card was accepted as proof of these.

Galloway’s programme included a Doha stopover enroute to Innovative Travel’s newest destination Ireland, followed by meetings with CroisiEurope in France, and ending with Jordan and Egypt.

‘Although I knew travelling was normal, it was still a bit a shock to arrive at a Dublin hotel and realise that the lobby was vibrant and full of excited tourists, sadly a distant memory for many New Zealand hotels.  Those destinations which have opened earlier are certainly reaping the benefits of other markets’ longer lead time. New Zealanders who intend to travel this year will need to book now to secure a place on an Innovative tour or CroisiEurope cruise.’