Do we need to learn how to travel again?

Whether you’ve had COVID-19 or not, chances are you’re afflicted by some other type of non-medically diagnosed malaise. If you search the interweb for your symptoms, it will most likely tell you that you are in desperate need of a holiday… and lots and lots of retail therapy. It’s always good for what ails you.

Thankfully, we can now venture further than our local petrol station and are free to explore the world and all the amazing things it has on offer.

Travelling beyond your balcony

Unfortunately, many of us are way out of practice when it comes to travel, especially of the overseas variety. It can trigger all kinds of questions that all of us have had on our minds. How much have travel costs gone up? What happens if you get sick abroad? What countries do you need COVID-19 vaccination paperwork upon entry? What if your flight gets delayed or cancelled? Do you have to wear masks again? It’s a lot to think about, but thankfully Latitude 28° Global Platinum Mastercard credit card can help make some things a little easier. Like say your flight gets delayed… you can take the edge off with our 'flight delay pass' and enjoy free drinks while you wait for your airline to come up with a good excuse for why they’re running so late.

Change your latitude, change your attitude

Whatever vexing question you may have a plane ticket to anywhere is almost always the answer. When you get the confirmation from the airline, an immediate sense of euphoric elation overtakes you, transcending every fibre of your being... you are finally escaping humble confines of your four walls. It’s hello bucket list, goodbye couch. If only travel and retail therapy was covered by your health insurance. Sadly, they’re not. But on the bright side, the only thing you have to worry about now is “window or aisle”…and where to go shopping!

Make your dollar travel further!

Like the rest of us, you’re probably looking to save wherever you can when you travel, because every dollar counts. Fortunately, there are ways to get more bang for your buck when you’re on holiday overseas.

Travel and shop overseas with ease with your Latitude 28° Global Platinum Mastercard credit card and enjoy all kinds of cost-saving benefits, like:

• No annual fee - There’s a reason why we win awards, and that’s a big one. You’ve got better things to spend your money on than fees, after all.
• Global savings - No international transaction or currency conversion fees on purchases online or overseas. Those can add up fast, but not with us. Want to see how much you can save on a trip? Check out our travel calculator and see for yourself.
• Complimentary Flight Delay Pass - Turn a delay into a delight and have a drink on us. You’ll need it.
• Free Global Data Roaming - Because no one should ever live unplugged.
• Mastercard Travel Rewards program - Get a global advantage with access to cashback offers with well-known international merchants. It’s a win-win!

Think of everything and forget nothing

Traveling in today’s new normal requires some extra planning, consideration, patience, and money. Here are some helpful tips to help you get back into the swing of things.

Make sure you have your proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Some countries need it, some don’t. The last thing you want is to show up and be told to go home. So, better safe than sorry.

Is your passport up-to-date? Seems obvious, but so many people think they have another 5 years on their passport when they only have 5 minutes left. As a rule, passports must be valid for six months beyond the date you exit the country. So, dig it up and have a look. Because the long line delays will most certainly delay your travel.

Learn about the healthcare there – make sure you’re aware of the healthcare system in the country you’re visiting, any risks and any potential costs you might incur if you have a medical emergency.

Check the exchange rate so you know how much your dollar is worth (or not worth) when you arrive. And be sure to have your Latitude 28° Global Platinum Mastercard credit card handy, because it doesn’t charge international fees on purchases.

Pack plenty of masks and COVID-19 tests for the entire trip. Regardless of whether they’re mandated, it’s always best to be safe rather than sorry!

Do your paperwork before you get to the airport. Filling out multiple forms for entry into one country can take time. So, print them out in advance and fill them in. You’ll be so much better off.

Don’t forget your Latitude 28° Global Platinum Mastercard credit card. You can travel and shop overseas with ease and it will help you save money in more ways than one. That way, you can spend it on important things… like more shopping!