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Written by: Peter Minkoff
Being on a trip was an experience many of us were looking forward to not so long ago. But a year of global pandemic changed the way we think about traveling. As nations worldwide struggle to balance travel restrictions and epidemic measures with tourism and vacation, the begging of vaccination in many countries promises a glimmer of hope for the restless.
Even though vaccines are deployed and administered worldwide, the struggle with a pandemic is still going on. More than ever, it would be wise to think about various details for any journey you planned this year.
Do your homework
2020 was a challenging year for tourism and travel alike. Many companies are looking to overcome losses by offering various packages and deals, including reduced prices and extra services. For example, some airline companies have dropped change fees permanently for customers flying domestically. Be sure to check the prices and compare all the offers. Also, keep a tab of the situation with pandemic at your destination. Even though last year showed us that we could not predict the flow of the virus, it is still advisable to know how the destination country is handling it.
Avoid crowds
Although they offer various entertainment options, big resorts have lost their attractiveness with the rise of COVID-19. Remote places, such as islands or isolated villas, or cabins, are becoming increasingly popular and smart choices. They offer a different if somewhat secluded way to enjoy the vacation, experiencing being away from the crowd and safe at the same time. National parks, with their untamed nature, became one of the traveling hotspots last year. The possibility of camping is also something that is becoming favored. These possible ways of spending vacation offer an opportunity to try something new and exciting. And who doesn’t need that after being stuck for a year?
Explore domestic offers
Distant and exotic locations may look like natural choices after a year in lockdown. But you do not need to travel far away. Like Australia, some countries have many beautiful places, such as the Great Barrier Reef or Uluru. Domestic tourism offers several advantages – It is usually cheaper and easier to negotiate with the hosts and, in case of emergency, it is much easier to return home. You can also do preparations relatively quickly. Traveling by car is also a possibility, with selected passengers (as opposed to airlines). If you do not have your vehicle, check for companies that offer car rental in Sydney. You should have no trouble finding something that suits your needs.
Pick the right companions
Months spent in lockdown with family members gave way to an increasing need to be with others and less familiar faces. Close relatives and friends are all viable traveling companions. Just be sure to agree on traveling rules beforehand. Various people have various experiences and attitudes towards Corona (and pandemic in general). Their ideas of what is a right or wrong way to behave may also vary. It is essential to be on the same page so that the traveling experience be as joyful and safe as possible. Talk about all the aspects openly and agree on the minimum set of rules – including socializing and external contacts in general.
Do the job in motion
Many companies turned to remote work last year, and it looks like it will stay that way for the time being. If your job permits you to leave the place of residence, why not merge enjoyment and focus? Changing scenery is not good only for your health. It may give you fresh ideas or a different perspective about the problems you are currently dealing with at work. You may also find new energy to tackle all the challenges that seem to only grow in the pandemic. And because other remote workers may also be on the road, it may lead to networking with possible cooperation in the future.
Related: Five Vacation Trends for 2021