So, like you, I am extremely ready to travel but one big key to that decision is whether the countries or states you want to fly to want to let you in and also the protocol for them allowing you in. We are still under Level 4 travel advisory and with cases rising daily, there are countries that have begun restricting our access.
Trends are reflecting that destinations and hotels are still making frequent changes as many are also still trying to figure out how to deal with the “new normal”. The situation is monitored daily and processes and procedures are being reviewed and updated on a regular basis. The protocols that are in place today may not be in place when you arrive. It is something that must be monitored on a regular basis, possibly daily
But there are still a lot of people traveling so I wanted to talk about a few things to consider before booking a trip that has travel dates within the next 60-90 days.
- Safety First – Do you want to be part of the problem by continuing to spread or possibly contaminate other countries more since the Americans traveling to the Caribbean will be the reason that they are harder hit after spring break? (essentially can you do your part as a good global citizen)
- Your Destination – First you must determine if you can travel to the country or state of your choice. It is not as simple as your state lifting the shelter in place order. What about the state you desire to travel to? Yes, hotels have open dates, and airlines have listed flights but ultimately it is up the government of each country Can you spend 2-4 weeks outside the US on your own dime if the borders were closed down suddenly?
- The Experience – Is there a quarantine period for new arrivals. Will you be placed in quarantine for any number of days upon arrival? Can you afford to have those extra days tacked on? What type of precautions has the resort put in place? How will this change your vacation experience?
- Getting Home- Based on the US Travel Ban 4, can you get back home and back into the country or your state? And if there are no restrictions can you self-quarantine for 14 days upon your return (government imposed or employer imposed quarantine)
Also, do your research – know reschedule, cancellation, and refund policies of the vendors you book with. And please buy a comprehensive trip insurance policy – and be very clear on what your policy covers – as most agencies have revised policies during this pandemic.
Travel life is going to be a bit different my friends. We just have to be patient!
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