A lot has changed in the world during 2020. Although travel looks different, we are excited to say that it is reopening. This summer we had the opportunity to visit both Universal Studios Orlando and Walt Disney World and experience the parks with all the safety protocols they have in place. Some experiences are on hold, but other new experiences have started. Overall, we found it to be a more laid back experience and enjoyed it.
Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Orlando are taking a similar approach to include the following protocols:
- Health and safety checks including temperature taking
- Social distancing with signage and markers on the ground as well as reducing capacity to allow for more space
- Facial coverings required throughout the parks
- Frequent handwashing signs as well as hand sanitizer and handwashing stations through the park
- Use of technology to reduce contact including mobile order, virtual queue, and contactless payment
- Increased frequency of cleaning processes
We are seeing these types of safety measures across the travel industry. Airlines are implementing many of these protocols as well. Domestic hotels and resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean are working to increase their cleaning protocols, doing health checks on staff, and ensuring the safety of guests. Cruise lines are not up and running from the U.S. yet, but they have also been working on their health and safety protocols and adjusting some of their offerings to increase safety.
What Opportunities Are There for Travel Now?
Most domestic travel options are available. The Orlando area is having a successful phased reopening which makes it a good vacation option. You can even drive if you prefer that over flying. Mexico and Caribbean resorts are mostly open, but your ability to travel there is dependent on their international arrival guidelines. Some require testing on arrival or proof of a negative test while others do not.
Cruises can be booked for 2021 and now is a great time to get in early at the best price. We are already seeing a lot of booking for the 2021 summer Alaska season. The timeline of reopening European travel to Americans is still unknown. Check out some of the current promotions available.
If you are not ready to travel right now, we are able to book vacations throughout most of 2021. Locking in at a great price now and securing the availability are great advantages of booking early. It is important to understand cancellation policies, final payment requirements, and change fees. It varies by destination, but we can work with you to be sure you fully understand the options so you can make the best decision.
Why Not Take a Schoolcation?
Working and schooling remotely opens the opportunity for a “schoolcation”. Why not take your virtual life on the road? With hotels offering WiFi, it’s a great opportunity to work during the day and have the best recess ever. After work and school are done for the day, you can enjoy the resort, pool, restaurants, and more. It is nice to have a change of venue and not miss any school or work. Plus, you are right where you want to be when the weekend hits.
Why Work with a Travel Agent?
Working with a travel professional is more important than ever.
Navigate the Changing Landscape
Most importantly, as travel reopens, we are here to help you navigate the changing landscape. Working with a professional helps you understand what changes affect your travel plans, answer your questions, and explain what to expect on your trip. Planning a trip can be stressful in the best of times and there are even more details to consider now. We use our firsthand experience and expertise to help you so you can stress less and enjoy your vacation more.
Handle Travel Changes
Having a travel agent handle your travel plans ensures that if changes arise you are informed and have someone to handle the changes for you. This saves you both time and energy.
Support Your Local Economy
Working with a local travel agent also helps our local economy. Travel agents are only paid a commission on traveled bookings. The months of closures this year have been hard on many in the hospitality industry so now is a good time to support your local restaurants, small businesses, and travel agencies.
Convenience
Working with an agent is also very convenient. We work from home and meet by phone and communicate by email. If you prefer to meet in person that may also be an option.
We look forward to getting back into travel and can’t wait until we can be out sailing on cruises again too. When you are ready to travel, we are here and ready to help.
