Happiness is often referred to as a journey rather than a destination. For many people who have HIV being able to travel anywhere remains a very desirable activity. Before 1996 and effective HIV treatments, some newly diagnosed people (given their individual circumstances) would sell their property or other assets and begin their holiday of a lifetime. After I was diagnosed in 1993, I saved up for what I thought was to be my last big holiday in 1995. I remember savouring moments thinking ‘I’ll never pass through here again, but I’m glad I got the chance to’. Even now, many individuals regardless of whether they have health challenges, manage to prioritise and plan for lifetime dream destinations.
Unfortunately, for people with HIV there are entry restrictions into some countries like the U.S., China and some Middle Eastern countries like Saudi Arabia. The International AIDS Society regards these countries’ laws as ‘discriminatory and irrational’, affirming instead the consensus among experts in infectious disease and public health that ‘…HIV/AIDS should not be considered a condition that poses a threat to public health in relation to travel because, although infectious, the virus cannot be transmitted by the mere presence of a person with HIV in a country or by casual contact’. For someone with HIV, it is definitely worth anonymously phoning embassy staff from your travel destination and making appropriate enquiries.
If you are a cautious person with HIV, how can you prepare for travel? Some easy tips include discussing your arrangements with your doctor. For example some locations may require vaccinations. You may need a letter declaring the medication in your luggage is for personal use. You should also discuss a plan of action if your medication is lost or destroyed as missed doses may lead to the development of drug resistance, which has critical health implications. Travel insurance is also available for people with HIV. It is worth shopping around early to reduce your cost and to anticipate the longer processing time of your application. It is also worthwhile discussing your travel arrangements with your HIV peers who have been to where you are going.
With or without HIV, travelling can be one of the most rewarding and memorable experiences. Upon return from a new travelling adventure I always have a greater appreciation of where I live, my friends, family and the relaxed cultural lifestyle of Perth. Play globally, appreciate locally.
