Canadians reunite with American relatives after a long separation as border restrictions are finally eased.

This week marks the start of a wave of reunions for Hamilton residents with family across the border, as travel restrictions for US residents lessen. According to the Canadian government, beginning of Monday, fully vaccinated U.S. citizens and permanent residents are no longer required to quarantine when crossing land borders for non-essential travel such as tourism. The relaxation of the restrictions caused many people to travel by land and air to cities across Canada, including Hamilton and its surrounding areas.

As he arrived at Toronto's Pearson International Airport on Monday, Ronald Byrd of Atlanta, Ga., told that he was taking an Uber to meet his expectant girlfriend in Hamilton. They haven't seen each other since February. "It's been insane. It's been quite difficult "He stated. "We've been monitoring every month to see when the border will open."

He described his discovery that he could visit without being quarantined as "one of the most beautiful moments of my life." "We've been planning it for the last two weeks, and it's finally here," he remarked. "I'm going to kiss my son on her belly. This is the first time."