As New York City’s Covid-19 lockdown eased, I wanted to know when it would be possible to travel safely again. Staying cooped up at home may minimize the risk of viral exposure, but it’s a guaranteed prescription for malaise. Where, I wondered, could I find the right balance of safety and joy? And how could I advise my clients on travelling safely until I had done so myself?
With that in mind, I made plans to meet with Nancy Smith, a dear friend and experienced travel consultant based in California. We agreed to meet each other halfway and explore the mountain towns of Southwest Colorado, which offer incredible natural beauty, solid local restaurants and a relaxed off-season vibe without the crowds of Winter skiers. You can read the full article here. But I want to share my experience of traveling during Covid first:
1. Air Travel
As of Summer 2020, all domestic US airlines require masks to be worn at all times while in the airport and aircraft. The data on the effectiveness and safety of mask wearing is overwhelming. On the flights I flew, the crew was diligent about enforcing the rules. If you’re sitting next to a non-mask wearer, inform the flight crew and they may be de-planed if they refuse to comply. If they are a sitting US Senator, don’t forget to post their picture to social media.
Gate crew may also limit the number of people on the jetway at any time, or load planes from the back. Be prepared for changes to the normal boarding routine, including temperature checks at the airport or the gate. Food and beverage service on-board is reduced, so consider bringing some snacks if it’s a long flight.
Some airlines are blocking off middle seats, while others are filling planes. On some routes, Jetblue offers pod-like seating in business class with a physical barrier to other travelers. If you want to ensure that you have space, please contact me about booking an empty seat next to you, or making a business-class reservation.
2. Ground transportation
Taxi services are taking Covid precautions seriously. Most have installed dividers between the driver and passenger (no sitting shotgun!) and many sanitize their cars in between passengers, especially if they’re phone services, rather than street hails or ride shares. Remember to wear a mask during your ride as well.
Rental car companies are also going the extra mile to clean and sanitize their cars, but you might consider bringing your own wipes for high-touch services. Many companies offer contactless pickup. If you can, you’ll want to pay extra for on-airport pickup instead of taking a shuttle bus to an off-site lot. Contact me to make sure you’re getting a contactless on-airport pickup.
Busses, subways and commuter trains are still running in most cities, but should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.
3. Hotels and Restaurants
All hotels are taking Covid precautions seriously for their guests and staff. Most offer contactless check-in and extra room cleanings. Indoor dining options vary throughout the US, but most states now allow outdoor table service, and all allow pickup. Procedures and requirements vary state-by-state and hotel-by-hotel.
4. Regulations and Cancellations
As the pandemic worsens in some places and gets better in others, regulations and requirements are subject to change. Airlines and hotels have generally gotten better with their cancellation policies, but each situation is unique. As of Summer 2020, the State Department is advising against non-essential international travel, and many countries have banned non-essential American travelers.
If you’re planning to travel this summer, consider local options with plenty of outdoor activities like State and National Parks, ranches, farmstays and beaches (but not beach parties!). Many summer camps are also offering cabin rentals to family units.
Above all, stay flexible and do your research. These aren’t normal times, but getting away for a vacation, fresh air and exercise will do wonders for your mental health and well being. I know they did for me!