As we move forward into a new era of global mobility, it’s critical to plan and prepare.
We’re all aware that the COVID-19 pandemic brought even more dramatic, rapid updates to a global mobility concern that was already of critical importance and subject to frequent change: immigration. Officials and governing bodies regularly assess local situations and consider new policies, solutions, and even technology to support doing business while staying safe.
For the last year, users of Living Abroad’s International Relocation Center (IRC) have been able to find the most current online resources for COVID-19 and immigration policies on the front page of every country report. That IRC feature will continue to be available for the foreseeable future.
Meanwhile, as the world has dealt with the pandemic as a whole, it’s become very clear that different effects are felt at all levels of community. Context, resources, and cultural attitudes figure prominently in these unique scenarios — and the results might not be immediately apparent in government-based resources.
One way to begin gauging an upcoming destination — especially when making decisions about scheduling travel — is to look at how traditionally large gatherings are being handled locally. Websites for annual events, schools, concert venues, nightlife and dining guides, clubs, and media venues often prominently feature responses to COVID-19, including the details of current policies and upcoming plans.
Similarly, the observation of holidays in a destination can also offer important local insight. Have mass transportation schedules and other traffic patterns been adjusted to accommodate customary travel within the location? When relevant, have places of worship been compelled to limit traditional services, or to offer alternatives? Are businesses adjusting hours and policies to accommodate more customers?
While the IRC has always made local resources easy for our users to find, they now offer important additional value.
Written by Erin Fitzgerald, GMS, Content Manager
