How to plan your first after-Corona trip?
What are the things you need to consider when booking your first after-Corona trip when the world is opening up again but the coronavirus has not been beaten yet?Â
If you like to plan ahead – months in advance, like me – then this year will present you with a unique challenge: the challenge to plan everything last minute. You might have to step out of your comfort zone for that. Just go with the flow and perhaps this will also lead to more spontaneous trips in the future.
You will be traveling in a vastly different world. There will still be restrictions for the time being. Less is possible than you’re used to.
What to consider and expect for your first after-Corona trip?
1) Quarantine and regulations
There is a need to check quarantine regulations for every country you are considering. If you have to stay in quarantine for the first two weeks after your arrival, the trip might not be worth it.Â
Are there any other rules you need to comply with? Do you need to wear masks and bring your own hand gel? There will be more focus on hygiene everywhere, so make sure you follow the local regulations.
2) Booking
It might be smart to book your flight and hotel only a few weeks in advance when you can somewhat predict what the situation will be like during your trip. You don’t want to be stuck on the other side of the world when the virus resurges full strength. Or perhaps you do… in that case, choose your favorite new home country.
3) Crisis response
Consider how well the country you’re visiting can deal with a new outbreak. Perhaps delay your more adventurous travel plans to countries with an unreliable medical system or an unstable government.
4) Insurance
Check your cancellation insurance and the cancellation policy of the party you’re booking with. If you do need to cancel your trip, you want to minimize the financial consequences.
5) Weather
You might have missed the best season for your intended destination. Perhaps you need to broaden your scope to the other side of the equator.
6) Crowds
It might be more interesting to travel to a less crowded destination. Skip the big cities and visit rural areas.
7) Wariness
In the country you’re visiting, people might be wary of travelers. Even if they rely on tourism for their income, they might still fear contamination.
8) To travel or not to travel?
Think thrice before deciding that you really want to or need to go on holiday. Are there any interesting places to visit closer to home?
9) When is it safe to travel?
When to go? I don’t know the answer to that question either. I’m watching the news and keeping an eye on situations around the world. I don’t think anyone can predict whether it will be okay to travel half a year from now, in a year or in two years. Travel to countries close to yours might be possible sooner than international trips. For me, living in Europe, it will be possible to drive to another country when the borders open. If you’re living on an island, it might take longer for you.
One thing is sure: I won’t be going anywhere until I’m fairly sure I won’t spread or catch anything.
10) Responsibility
If there is an outbreak where you live, take your responsibility, and don’t spread the virus yourself!
11) Appreciation
You probably won’t ever take traveling for granted anymore. You never know when your next trip will be, so love every single day of the one you’re on!
