Though it’s only natural to want to escape, travel, and create positive experiences after such a grueling start to the year, it is imperative that you proceed with caution. For those thinking about taking a summer vacation this year, there are some important factors to keep in mind.
Since the beginning of the year, most of the world has been sheltering in place in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Now that many countries are starting to see a decline in the number of new cases, hospitalizations, and deaths, government officials and leaders have begun easing restrictions, prompting many to want to plan a summer getaway.
Though it’s only natural to want to escape, travel, and create positive experiences after such a grueling start to the year, it is imperative that you proceed with caution. For those thinking about taking a summer vacation this year, there are some important factors to keep in mind.
The Coronavirus pandemic is still in effect
One of the biggest things to keep in mind when planning a summer vacation is that the coronavirus is still very much present. This means that there is still a chance that you and/or someone you love could contract the virus.
It would appear that lots of people are mistaking the reopening of certain areas for the end of the fight with this vicious virus. Unfortunately, there are some people that no longer wear masks or practice social distancing. It would behoove you not to be one of those people as this could put you at risk.
Not all places are out of the woods yet
When you’re looking for places to travel this summer, keep in mind that not all areas are out of the woods just yet. There are countries that are just now starting to see an increase in coronavirus cases. Therefore, you want to steer clear of those places to reduce the likelihood of contracting the virus.
Another thing to remember when choosing a destination for your summer vacation is popularity. Where there are crowds there is an increased risk of contracting the coronavirus. Try to select places that are least popular to travel to. At the very least, try to stick to outdoor activities and participate in things during off-peak hours.
Staycations may be your best option
While there are areas that you can travel to for summer vacation this year, staying close to home is ideal. The further you travel, the more you’re potentially exposing yourself and others to the coronavirus. Though a staycation may not have been exactly what you were looking for, you’d be surprised at just how fun they can be. You can reserve a hotel or vacation rental nearby and look for activities in your town (or a nearby town) to participate in.
Health and safety preparedness
No matter where you travel to or how you plan on getting there this summer, you need to be prepared to safeguard your health and safety. This means packing plenty of personal protection equipment, cleaning and disinfecting your hotel room or vacation rental, washing your hands regularly, and practicing social distancing wherever you can.
To prioritize the health and safety of yourself and others, when you return from your vacation, you and those who traveled with you may want to get tested and/or remain sheltered in place for a few days to ensure that you did not bring the virus back with you.
On the brighter side… You can travel cheap
Though there’s a lot to consider if you’re going to travel this summer, there is some good news you can take away from it. Due to the coronavirus pandemic wreaking havoc on the hospitality and tourism industries, many companies are offering unheard of deals to try and generate revenue.
You’ll find everything from airline tickets and cruise packages to hotel stays and vacation rentals for pennies on the dollar. The same is true for many popular restaurants and tourist attractions. You could easily take out an installment loan and cover the entire cost of your trip and repay it in small monthly payments once you return without much issue.
The news of countries reopening and phasing back into some sort of normalcy is inspiring. Now that restrictions are being loosened, it’s only natural that you want to get out of dodge as soon as you can. Whether you decide on a fun-filled staycation with the family or you want to go surfing on the west coast this summer, it is imperative that you keep the above-mentioned tips in mind to ensure that you’re planning a vacation that will be just as safe as it is fun.
