The New Normal

2021-06-21

Can’t wait to travel again? Things will look a little different this year but make no mistake—tourism is back. Here are a few tips on what to look out for as you get back to traveling in the new normal.

Airline Safety

Don’t expect social distancing on the plane. Flights are now fully booked—sometimes overbooked. Whatever your comfort level, be prepared for close quarters with strangers. The best option here is to make your own safety choices and be respectful of others and their choices—even if they don’t align with yours.

Note: Physical conflict on the plane or in the airport is grounds for the removal of either party or both. If you don’t want your trip to go sideways before it even gets started, just be respectful. If you have safety concerns, bring them to the attention of the staff and let them address the matter. It’s better to leave it to the professionals and keep your trip on track.

Remember to bring hand sanitizer and anti-bacterial wipes to keep germs at bay.

Airport Transfers

Transfers from the airport to your accommodations often involve riding with a group in a bus or van. These transfers can sometimes take more than an hour. If possible, take some time at the airport to use the facilities, freshen up, and get a snack. Once you’re on the transport, apply the same practices you did on the plane and you’ll be fine. If you prefer to avoid the whole prospect of traveling more with strangers, private transfers are available to and from the airport.

Accommodations

According to the CDC, the risk of COVID transfer by way of surfaces is minimal. However, many hotels and other establishments have stepped up cleaning protocols to make guests feel safer. This being the new normal, it should be safe to assume that most accommodations have been cleaned and sanitized to an even higher standard than previously expected. If you still have concerns, you can contact your hotel for specifics. It might also be prudent to pack some anti-bacterial wipes (for phones, remotes, etc.) and hand sanitizer. Keep in mind, some venues still require masks when indoors or in common areas.

During Your Stay

Most states are following CDC guidelines. If you have concerns, you can go to each state’s website for the most up-to-date COVID restrictions. Most locations are either fully or partially open with shops and restaurants working on getting back to 100% capacity. Beyond that, it seems mostly up to personal choice—either on the part of the individual or the business. While traveling, it’s still a good idea to wear a mask in crowded public areas, such as public transportation, common spaces, and high-traffic tourist spots. If you’re respectful of others and their decisions, you should not have any issues.

If you still want to maintain social distancing practices while on vacation, consider looking for accommodations with a kitchen and dining setup. You’ll be able to eat meals in privacy, but can still enjoy all the local activities and attractions your particular destination has to offer.  You also have take-out and delivery food options, which would make for the perfect afternoon or even picnic.

Note: It’s a good idea to have your vaccination cards handy. If you’re participating in an active adventure with a risk of injury (i.e., mountain biking, hiking, rafting, etc.), it may prove helpful should emergency medical services be required.

Travel Insurance

The new normal means—you never know what could happen. We suggest you get travel insurance and stop worrying about canceled flights, COVID complications, or whatever else might happen. Now, more than ever, you should take advantage of trip insurance and have some peace of mind.

Book Early

The best locations are booking up fast, so start planning early and beat the rush for the 2021-22 winter ski season. Resorts in Colorado, Utah,  and California will fill up quickly. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, take a look at Big Sky in Montana, Sun Valley in Idaho, Telluride in Colorado, or Solitude in Utah (to name a few). These are world-class resorts with a great low-key vibe.

The other benefit of booking early is taking advantage of “Early Bird” promotions. Resorts are offering up to 45% off, if you reserve early on.  Multi-day and seasonal ski passes (we offer Epic and Ikon passes) are also available at a discount if they are purchased prior to the fall.  This could save you hundreds of dollars, especially if you are booking a family or group trip.

 

Call us for the best deals and “Early Bird Specials“, from California to Vermont. We’ll take care of you!

 

THANK YOU

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