It's clear to us that things have started picking up this month in terms of travel inquiries. People are starting to think about future travel.
The market research firm Sports and Leisure Research Group reported that 58% of surveyed individuals who took a cruise within the last 12 months, would be willing to go on a cruise again immediately. They also found that 47% of Americans would stay in a hotel, 46% would go to a casino, and 43% are ready to fly commercially. This study, along with many others, supports the fact that almost half of the nation is ready to go on a trip. With this data in mind, it is a good time to start planning vacations for the ready-to-go travelers, while still understanding that many of you are simply not ready.
So what can you expect in terms of travel?
We realize that many of you may be concerned about the new norm and health and safety issues of travel during the time of Covid.
Keeping up with pandemic-driven health practices policies of suppliers is a huge challenge in itself, compounded by the situation that some hotels, tour operators and airlines will have differing policies that may or may not be enforced. You are likely thinking: “what can I expect in terms of airport, aircraft, hotel and so on?” It’s a fair question during this unprecedented time.
Many of these changes you are already probably aware of and are practicing now at local establishments. Below are a few items to help you prepare for what you may encounter.
Below are some situations that can arise and/or change at any time prior and during travel that you may experience:
Your flight schedules may change, even last minute –For instance, if you have a non-stop flight booked the airline may change it to a connection or even change the day of departure. This is when it is very crucial to reconfirm your flights the day before departure as well as the day of departure.
Arrival time to the airport could be lengthened and mandatory. In other words, 3 hours may not be enough time for international trips, or 2 hours for domestic.
You may be required to hold your own passport for scanning at the airport
There may be sanitizing of suitcases at the airport or resort.
Temperature checks, medical screenings, or questionnaires may be in place.
Masks may be mandatory - much like your local Costco.
Social distancing rules may be in place like standing in lines or even chair placement 6 feet apart
Additional Rules - Discretion of the property to impose any special per-cautions or additional rules
Resort staff may be limited and have limited interaction with you, cleaning services may differ on frequency, (as well as daily turn down may or may not be offered)
Possible limited room service, restaurants, and bar options. Although some resorts have increased their room service offerings, and many have consolidated their restaurant and bar schedules.
There may or may not be a buffet - Many resort have opted to keep their buffet, but eliminated the self-serve option to one where they serve you instead.
Spa/Gym or social activities like tours/activities may be limited, with more opening as travel relaxes
Off-site venues such as restaurants, nightclubs, bars, lounges, casinos might have limited availability as well.
When you work with Romantics Travel, we will help you prepare for your trip by giving you the most current up to date information on what to expect while traveling during this time, along with our 24/7 support.
Contact us today using the form below!