Travel during COVID-19 has gotten a bad rap. Contrary to popular belief, in many ways, there’s never been a better time to travel than right now.
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Travel During COVID-19 Means More Precautions Than Ever Before
Unlike any other time in recent memory, more air travel safety precautions are being performed than ever before. It’s not just hand washing and masks, but a general awareness of good hygiene practices. Due to some of the entry requirements around the world, travelers during COVID-19 that do arrive have already proven that they are virus-free or possess the necessary antibodies. Those with any cold symptoms whatsoever are self-quarantining out of an abundance of caution.
Travel During COVID-19 Means Limited Crowds
Many are staying home but that means for those locations that are open, fewer tourists are visiting. Unlike most summers in Europe, cobble-stoned streets are empty right now creating once in a lifetime opportunities to explore some of the world’s most beautiful locales.
Despite capacity constraints, it’s incredibly easy to secure top-flight restaurant reservations. Upgrades in hotels have become far easier than in the past as occupancy in many places is down to some of the lowest levels in years.
Travel During COVID-19 Means a Great Value for Your Money
When we speak about costs, we don’t refer to the absolute numbers or a low-cost item as being cheap. In fact, we aren’t looking for cheap, we are looking for good value.
Traditionally, some of the best values for money hotels in the world could be found in Bangkok. A night in the St. Regis, the Park Hyatt, or the Waldorf-Astoria – all properties that in New York, London, or Miami fetch $800-1200/night – in Bangkok go for $200-300 with an even higher level of luxury. A stay in the Bangkok Le Meridien would command $400 anywhere else in the world for the location and amenities but due to the incredibly high level of competition in the city, it ranges from $100-140/night. That’s not a cheap hotel, it’s not even a cheap price, but the value for money is incredible.
Like Bangkok hotels, the world is offering terrific value for money right now. Flights in coach from the east coast to Japan were offered two weeks ago for as little as $162 roundtrip with just one stop (they remain cheap at $400-500). That’s cheap, but upgrading them in both directions could be as low as $450/each way for a total of $1062 roundtrip in lie-flat business class is a great value for money.
Get Ready … The World Is Re-Opening
Many countries aren’t just re-opening, they are offering unheard-of access to their countries. For example, Barbados is opening not just for American tourists, but allowing Americans to live and work remotely for up to a year in the country with the Barbados Welcome Stamp program.
Croatia is one of a handful of European countries greeting Americans with open arms. The country runs north and south along the Mediterranean coast opposite Italy and is home to many of the top beaches on the continent.
Conclusion
As we reach the conclusion of our exploration of travel during the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s crucial to reflect on the evolving nature of international travel and its intersection with public health concerns. The decision to travel internationally during these times is complex and multifaceted, impacted by factors ranging from COVID-19 cases to travel restrictions and health protocols.
The pandemic has undeniably altered the landscape of travel. While travel increased in certain periods, it’s important to acknowledge the ever-present risk of the spread of COVID-19. Countries, including the United States, have implemented various measures to mitigate this risk, with COVID-19 testing becoming a standard requirement for travelers. This testing regime, while ensuring a degree of safety, also highlights the high-risk nature of international travel during the pandemic.
One of the critical components in the arsenal against COVID-19 has been the development and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines. Travelers who are fully vaccinated have, in many instances, found it easier to navigate travel restrictions and requirements. However, being vaccinated doesn’t eliminate the risk entirely. Areas with higher COVID-19 cases still pose a higher risk for travelers, vaccinated or not.
Public transport and air travel have seen significant changes in response to the pandemic. From mandatory mask-wearing to social distancing measures, these changes aim to reduce the risk of transmission during travel. Airlines have adapted by modifying boarding processes and handling boarding passes with minimal contact. Despite these measures, public transport and air travel remain potential sites for the spread of the virus.
Travel during the COVID-19 pandemic is not just about navigating travel restrictions or producing a negative test result. It’s about understanding and weighing the risks, being cognizant of the rapidly changing nature of the virus, and adapting to new public health guidelines. The pandemic has taught us the importance of flexibility and preparedness in travel planning.
In conclusion, while there are certainly aspects of travel during the COVID-19 pandemic that may seem appealing, such as lower prices and fewer crowds, it’s vital to approach the decision to travel with caution and informed awareness. The dynamics of COVID-19 continue to evolve, and with them, the landscape of international travel. Being fully vaccinated, staying informed about the latest travel restrictions and public health guidelines, and being prepared to adapt to changing circumstances are essential steps for anyone considering travel during these unprecedented times. The safety and health of travelers and the communities they visit should always be the paramount consideration in any travel decision during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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