The travel industry is just one of many facing challenging times. It is in our souls to explore and people are yearning to travel again. After being cooped up at home, there is incredible pent-up demand to get out. Just as our day-to-day routines have changed, so has traveling as we know it. What do you need to know about traveling in a world where a virus with no cure is traveling as well?
When deciding on your destination, here are some key questions to ask yourself:
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- What are the health and safety guidelines at your destination?
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- Do you need to have a COVID-19 test before you leave?
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- Will you be required to quarantine at your destination?
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- What are the travel requirements in your departure state?
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- Does your employer require you to quarantine upon your return?
The travel industry is continually working to make travel as safe as possible with enhanced health and safety protocols based on the latest developments as they are learned.
What can you expect on your next vacation? If you’ve always enjoyed the buffet on your cruise or all-inclusive vacation, it will still be available, but you will not help yourself, a server will put the food on your plate.
Many resorts require their staff to wear masks at all time. Guests are also required to wear masks until they arrive at their room. Mask requirements for guests in public areas around the resorts vary, depending on your destination.
What is the cancellation policy for the travel supplier?
Most cruise lines have implemented a “Peace of Mind” cancellation policy allowing travelers to cancel, without penalty, up to 48 hours prior to departure for any reason and to receive a refund or credit. Similarly, many land vacation suppliers are offering liberal cancellation policies. This allows travelers to make reservations with confidence, now knowing that when it is time to travel, they can make their final decisions based on the current state of travel at that time.
If traveling abroad, sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive information from the U.S. Embassy about safety conditions in your destination country so you can make informed decisions about whether or not to travel there. In addition, while traveling, the Embassy will contact you if there are any emergencies.
If you want to get away now, consider traveling within the continental United States. There is so much to see and experience right in our own backyard – from beautiful national parks and historic landmarks to river cruising and outdoor adventures!
We will travel again. Now more than ever, it is important to enlist the help of a travel agent. Your travel agent keeps up-to-date in this ever-changing world of travel and can provide the answers to all of your questions as they arise.
