Though it has been well over a year since the first case of COVID-19 was reported, the coronavirus is still affecting travel not only in the United States but also worldwide. If you thought it was a good idea to wait until the pandemic had died down before making plans for a vacation, then you will probably still be waiting for some time yet. COVID-19 is still impacting travel plans but not necessarily forcing a full cancellation altogether.
International vs. Domestic Travel
There is no doubt that COVID has put a damper on many travel plans this year, especially international ones. The main reason for this is a conflict of restrictions on both the departure and arrival destinations, with many countries outright banning travel into their borders altogether. However, this isn’t the case for all potential destinations, and there is a handful that you can travel to from the U.S. with far fewer restrictions.
Saint Lucia is one such example of a country that the CDC has deemed a safe option to visit with low risk. With fewer people visiting the Caribbean during the pandemic, keeping a social distance is much easier. There is plenty of room for peace of mind should you wish to travel abroad. Coconut Bay is even running several promotions to bring people in to see the sights due to cancellations from potential travelers who cannot leave their country of origin at this time, so now is the perfect time to check it out.
The Open Road
Domestic travel is still much possible during the pandemic, and with a country as varied as the United States, a lot of people have realized that now is the perfect time to explore America. The added benefit of avoiding international trips is avoiding the ambiguity of regulations between countries and the risk of being stuck in quarantine within another country.
That being said, it’s still important to know how to protect yourself on the road. Covid or not, car insurance elements, distracting the younger family members and having the right legal advice as a new driver are paramount. Furthermore, the freedom afforded using your own vehicle (especially as public transport is heavily restricted) and dictating where you go and when is a great way to relax without breaking the bank.
Some Extra Precautions
There is no denying that the spread of COVID-19 has been incredibly stressful on families across the U.S., and given the option, a vacation is always a welcome relief. However, be aware that whilst international trips are limited, finding the right travel insurance that will cover you during the pandemic is potentially even more problematic.
At no point has the pandemic made traveling, or any other part of it, impossible? Granted, the CDC suggests that travel is avoided completely, but for some, this isn’t an option. As more places worldwide open up, international travel plans are not off the table just yet. The CDC has also compiled a list of countries that they have deemed safer to travel to during the pandemic, which is definitely worth looking through and selecting your destination.
Though travel has not been restricted completely, many elements of your trip depend on the rulings at the State level. Masks are a priority across the U.S., but the rules of statewide travel in New York are vastly different to Wyoming. Many states are requesting that travelers quarantine upon arrival over the state lines. Vermont, which has the strictest regulations so far, has made quarantine for travelers mandatory. Regardless of whether you are traveling within the country or outside, the key here is research and meticulous planning. Perhaps, in some instances, a stay-cation may be the preferred option!
