Are you thinking of going on vacation? Travel during the Covid-19 pandemic requires additional planning. We asked Michele Stuart, contributor and founder of Stuart Travel Design at Suburbs 101, to give us her Covid-19 travel tips and resource list.
Exactly a year ago I founded Stuart Travel Design, a personalized, fun, thriving boutique travel company. Little did I know the whole world was going to be turned upside down by a pandemic that would bring the travel industry to a complete standstill. For the past five months, I’ve studied cancellations, travel insurance, refunds, the status of hotel openings, logs while traveling, and trying to understand the ever-changing world of travel. Every aspect of our industry is affected and fluctuating, day by day, minute by minute and sometimes seconds by seconds. There are so many nuances to traveling during COVID-19 and I am here as your attorney to assist you with any question or concern you may have. to provide you with up-to-date guidelines and protocols; to notify you of the status of hotel openings, villa rentals, private cottages and cabins in resorts; and especially if you choose to take a getaway to help you make informed decisions about travel in the months to come.
So where do we go from here? Wherever we go – we wear masks; we exercise patience; we think of things for which we should be grateful; we value the time we have with our families, our pets, our close friends; We’re doing our best to look forward to free travel again because so many places will be waiting for us with open arms!
Traveling in 2020 looks very different with the new health and safety protocols. There are many incredible travel destinations to explore near your home, but before you grab your suitcase, here are some tips for traveling during COVID-19 and links to important resources.
Covid-19 travel tips
Get a COVID test 72 hours before you travel
Some destinations require a negative COVID test for entry, others do not (yet). The rules for each spot are fluid and can change at any time. So avoid the risk of getting caught without one and get that negative endorsement.
Must-pack essentials during the Covid-19 trip
Many hotels require masks in public spaces, even if the destination itself does not meet these requirements. Be on the safe side, bring a couple of masks for the good of everyone and carry a “COVID kit” in your car additional masks, Gloves, Disinfectant wipes, Hand sanitiser, Lysol spray and Paper towels.
Feel free to ask any questions
If anything comes to mind, ask! It is common to have questions and concerns prior to travel. So it is important that you check with your hotel, airline, tour operator, and restaurants for the latest information that will make you feel comfortable on your vacation. If you want to make planning easier, contact your travel agent. As a travel agent, we may not know all the answers, but we can help you find the best source for your questions. From the latest updates from your hotel to speaking to our local partners, we can help you get information so you can make your travel decisions with confidence.
Confirm all and ALL reservations before departure
Check your restaurant reservations, tours, and activities before you leave as things can change day by day.
Protect yourself on the go
Maintain social distance if possible, wear your mask, wash your hands … you know the exercise. It’s easy to let go of your guard when you’re finally on vacation, but always keep an eye on normal safety precautions.
Be flexible
If you are used to having dinner at 7:00 p.m. but want to avoid peak hours, be prepared to make concessions. Consider dining sooner or later, exercising at a different time, and adjusting “normal” schedules to avoid crowded areas.
Purchase and proof of travel insurance
Getting travel insurance is extremely important. Some travel destinations require proof of travel insurance that covers medical expenses. We have an in-house insurance expert to help you navigate the different types of travel insurance so you can choose the best option for you.
Practice patience and understanding
Things will be very different, traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic can be stressful as you have to think about your safety and well being
no matter where you are. But everyone is working on the changes. If check-in or eating takes longer or is not what you are used to, be patient and understand that everyone is trying to protect you, your fellow travelers, and their staff.
Review and review local rules and regulations
Things can change quickly in any travel destination, from mandatory quarantines to open ones, so be sure to check back for the latest local ones regularly
Rules and regulations. The never-ending coverage of COVID-19 is enough to fray even the most steely nerves. Find below travel resources, sources of information, and updates on domestic and international travel.
Air travel information
Domestic travel
Trips abroad
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About Michele Stuart
Michele Stuart is the founder of Stuart Travel Design, a boutique travel consultancy offering trips from short weekend getaways to hotels to unique, bespoke trips around the world. Website: www.stuarttraveldesign.com
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