After nearly 18 long months, it seems as though Summer 2021 might be a return to a new type of normal for the world. Most countries have gotten a hold of COVID-19 (thoughts and prayers for India and Brazil) and there are three vaccines for people to chose from. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has loosened restrictions and people can gather without masks if fully vaccinated. After more than a year of “Stay Home, Stay Safe” we are all yearning to do three things: gather with others, attend dinners, parties and concerts, and of course travel!
For those of us who live for traveling to see new and even familiar places, travel restrictions have been extremely hard. But we are starting to venture out again and it is exciting! However, even as the world opens back up, and more and more people become vaccinated, COVID is not going away and there are still precautions we must take, especially in non-familiar places.
Here are some tips to travel safely during these times. Remember, that the vaccine guards against serious illness. IT IS NOT A CURE OR WILL IT PREVENT YOU FROM CONTRACTING THE VIRUS.
- GET VACCINATED. The CDC recommends that only those who are fully vaccinate start to travel again, especially international travel.
- HAVE PROOF. Some cities are considering vaccination passports, but until then, keep proof of your vaccination with you.
- RESEARCH. Check out the COVID rates for the destinations you are considering traveling to and avoid those with still high infection rates.
- LIMIT YOUR TRAVEL TO MULTIPLE STATES/COUNTRIES. Most countries have different guidelines, testing requirements, etc. So, limit your number of destinations and really enjoy one or two spots.
- MORE RESEARCH. Find out how the resorts or hotels are managing their operations to protect guests.
- CHECK OUT CANCELLATION POLICIES. Unfortunately, COVID is unpredictable, so make sure that you can get your money back in the event an outbreak happens, and you are unable to travel to a particular destination.
- TRAVEL INSURANCE. Tied to #5, this is the time to always purchase travel insurance to protect your investment.
- MAP IT OUT. If you are taking a driving trip, map your route along with open restaurants, and rest and fueling stops.
- GET A COVID TEST. Most airlines require a COVID test within 72 hours of your flight – even if you are vaccinated. Be sure to schedule this in.
- GET A FLU SHOT. Flu rates are down because people have been social distancing, however it is still out there too. Protect yourself from the flu too.
- PAPERWORK. For international travel, fill out as much paperwork as possible prior to your flight and keep your own pen handy.
- BUILD UP YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM. Studies show that most COVID patients have Vitamin D deficiencies. Have your doctor check your levels and still incorporate it, and other immune boosting supplements into your diet.
- MASK UP. Even if your vaccinated, still wear a mask.
- MAINTAIN SIX FEET DISTANCE as much as possible.
- AVOID CROWDS. You never know if others are carriers.
- WASH YOUR HANDS or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, often.
- PPE SUPPLY. Make sure you have enough hand sanitizer and masks for your trip. Supplies may still be low, so you may not be able to purchase extra while traveling.
- MAKE PLANS AND SCHEDULES. Most places still have restrictions on the number of people that can be in spaces at one time, so as you prepare for your trip, book tours or even a guide to take you around.
- SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES. This will be perfect time to support the local establishments which have been suffering over the past year.
- PACK A LUNCH. Prepared with nonperishable foods in case you hit an area where full service has returned.
- PACK ALLERGY AND OTHER MEDICINE. You haven’t been away in a while, be prepared for reactions to different envrionments and foods.
- BUFFER YOUR RETURN TO WORK. Have some time between your return home and going to work, in case you need to quarantine.
- DON’T LET YOUR GUARD DOWN. It’s not over, even if the trip may make you feel that way.
- BE RESPONSIBLE. And be thoughtful and considerate – clean up after yourself, especially tissue and napkins.
- HAVE FUN! And be grateful we got through the first global pandemic in more than a century.
Native Chicagoan, Dr. Eugenia Orr is a nationally published freelance writer and journalist, an enthusiastic speaker, a devoted daughter, and a lover of all things beautiful. Dr. Orr loves to deliver messages about community, empowerment, beauty, tranquility, and leadership.