COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Update

 

The health and well-being of all travellers in Ontario is our number one priority.

Please follow posted public health guidelines at all times, wear a mask, and limit movement to your immediate area for essentials and limit contact with those outside your immediate household. If you do venture out in a safe manner and in accordance with guidelines, it's important to note there are many changes when you visit. Here is what you can to expect to see when you visit a business during the pandemic Ontario's Southwest.

The Province of Ontario regularly updates rules and regulations for businesses to operate in the province, please always check the government of Ontario website for updates related to COVID-19.

As of September 7th 2021, foreign nationals who qualify for the fully vaccinated traveller exemption can enter Canada for discretionary travel! Now, we understand that it isn't the time for all our international friends to visit Ontario's Southwest. But we are looking forward to welcoming you when the time is right! In the meantime, keep an eye on the boarder restrictions and exceptions.

There are ways to support local small businesses from the comfort of your home, find them here.

Before your travel locally, we recommend that you call or check ahead online with each business, festival or event and attractions to ensure you have the most up-to-date information available.

Vaccine certificates are the newest safety protocol that was announced by the Government of Ontario. Starting on September 22, you’ll need to carry proof of immunization and photo ID to many public settings in Ontario including restaurants, bars, nightclubs, sporting events, concerts, music festivals, theatres, events spaces and more. Click here if you are an Ontario resident to download your vaccine receipt. 

Questions about the certification? Click here to see if your question is answered in the Frequently Asked Questions by the Office of the Premier.

Safe Travels Stamp 

World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) in partnership with the tourism industry, including TIAO, created a self-certified Safe Travel Stamp that is based on worldwide industry protocols. The stamp lets you know that the business you are visiting has adopted health and hygiene global standardized protocols so you can experience Safe Travels. There are nearly 250 businesses in Ontario's Southwest that have acquired the stamp for their business with more being added every week! 

Canada’s Border Reopening: Frequently Asked Questions

Here are links to information and advice from official authorities regarding the current COVID-19 outbreak. The information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. Below are trusted sources for the most up-to-date information.

Local Health

Tourism Industry Partners

For information on international border crossing and how COVID-19 is impacting travel please click crossingmadeeasy.com. Entry into Canada is only available for residents of Canada. 

For the latest updates from the Ontario government, please visit ontario.ca/coronavirus.

Ontario’s Southwest is not encouraging you to travel outside of your local area or break public health guidelines. Ontario’s Southwest cannot be held liable if you use the information on this website for anything other than inspiration and do not follow mandated rules and guidelines of public health regions.

 

Our tourism partners are committed to doing their part to ensure your safety. As the COVID-19 situation in Ontario may change quickly, please plan your travel to our region and activities while you’re here using the most recent guidance found at: Ontario Ministry of Health, Health Canada, or Southwestern Public Health.