Slowly, travel is starting. Not everywhere, and not quite “like it used to be”. Here is what you can expect:
Vacation travel is, by definition, personal.
And so is deciding whether or when you’re ready to go. While some of us aren’t ready to think about travel at all, others can’t wait and want something to look forward to. (see the results of our recent travel and Coronavirus questionnaire).
We'd like to share the most recent developments we see in travel right now:
Travel Restrictions
Europe slowly reopens its borders for Europeans and residents of countries with similar or better coronavirus infection rates. That includes Canada, but for now, not the United States. The EU will update its recommendations every two weeks, and each EU country makes its own final determination who will be let in, and who has to wait longer. Restrictions or self-quarantine requirements may impact imminent travel to and from certain destinations – including Chicago. And the US still requires a 14-day self-quarantine for US citizens and permanent residents returning from EU countries. One thing is certain: travel right now requires flexibility, as changing rules may change where you can go.
Airlines
Airlines are (re)scheduling flights – early this year, airlines cut their schedules as much as 100%. Many now are rebuilding their operating schedules, and are gradually increasing flights. What you can expect: compared to last year, fewer flight frequencies or nonstop itinerary options. If you have flights booked, anticipate schedule changes. Social distancing at airports, and on some airlines, in flight. Flight attendants and passengers are asked (or required) to wear masks. Airlines report that they use high efficiency HEPA filters and refresh the entire volume of air every two or three minutes to keep the air onboard clean. And service onboard and in lounges will be (even more) limited, to reduce potential exposure between staff and passengers. Airlines are also more flexible, providing you with travel credits when you change your plans.
Hotels and Resorts
Hotels and resorts reopen with new cleaning protocols. Hotel chains announce partnerships with professional cleaning organizations and health authorities. Rooms are “deep cleaned” between stays, with limited service during your stay, receptionists are shielded by plastic screens, and guests made aware of social distancing requirements. Expect masks indoors; maximum two per elevator ride; limited capacity in (indoor) restaurants and menus called up on your phone by QR code. Mid-range hotels offer a grab-and-go bag for breakfast. And waitstaff at luxury properties will serve a la carte or from buffets. But importantly, the views, the comfortable hotel beds and the enjoyment of being away from home are still there!
Cruise Lines
Cruise lines established partnerships with health professionals and organizations, to re-start their sailings when the time is right. The European Union released guidelines for cruising’s return. Royal Caribbean Group and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings have jointly created a “Healthy Sail Panel”. Comprised of globally recognized specialists in medical practice and research, public health, infectious diseases, biosecurity, hospitality and maritime operations, the panel will advise on a science-backed plan for a healthy return to service that ensures the well-being of guests and crew as well as the communities they visit.
Ocean and river cruises have restarted: small ship cruise lines like Ponant, SeaDream Yacht Club and Hurtigruten are operating limited initial ocean cruises in Europe. River cruise companies have also gently started to operate some sailings. While these cruises are only sold locally to Europeans, they will help the cruise lines to fine tune their future operations.
AFAR magazine’s recent article (that quotes Rob Clabbers of Q) talks about when Americans can cruise outside of the United States again.
Private Experiences
Private jets, villas, yachts. Another trend we’re seeing: clients who want to travel with their own family or friends only, to limit their contact with “others”. Think private jets (also a major time saver), villa rentals in the USA or the Caribbean, and renting a private yacht for 2 to 12, with or without crew, in the Caribbean, Bahamas, Belize, or even in the Mediterranean, Tahiti or Thailand.
However eager you are to travel (or not, and that’s fine too), know that when you are ready, the team at Q will be ready to help you too.
On a Backroads tour, you are traveling with a small group and three or four tour leaders who are there to support you. You travel at your pace: on a Backroads biking or walking tour, you can choose from multiple itineraries at different levels each day. You choose how active you'd like to be. Need some help? A van will support you and take you back to your hotel if needed.
Sample Backroads Adventures in the USA
