2020 has come and let us know that we aren’t in control of anything. We can plan the most detailed event or vacation but ultimately we’ve learned that things can change, and they do. Rapidly. In the blink of an eye. For example; I had planned to take my first carnival trip this year. I had rounded up a few ladies, found the most perfect luxurious resort and an event company, The Carnival Boutique, to book costume and event packages. I had started a gym routine and changed my diet.
I had two small groups planned for this summer; one group would see the Nevis Food and Mango Festival and another group would experience a full carnival experience in Antigua. I had begun building excitement on social media with countdown timers and colorful photos. Then COVID-19 hit with a ferociousness that turned the whole world upside down. Travel plans came to a sudden halt.
Trips were cancelled and refunds are still being processed.
…But I still want to travel this summer, should I?
As regions are slowly beginning to open their airports back up, traveling this summer is definitely possible. However, it is truly a personal decision should you decide to go - be informed!
According to The Points Guy:
The CDC states that travel increases your risk of contracting and spreading COVID-19
Masks are required but not mandated by law
Flights are still limited but increasingly filling up
Food and beverage service on flights have been severely limited, including in first class
Delta has blocked middle seats from being booked and capped first class capacity. American and Spirit are blocking middle seats on most flights. Southwest is reducing the maximum number of flights sold per flight. United has created a system to avoid seating passengers together (unless traveling together)
TSA is now allowing hand sanitizer up to 12 ounces in carry-on bags until further notice
TSA is also permitting the use of driver’s licenses that expired after March 1, 2020 as acceptable identification at security checkpoints
Touch as little as possible! For example, print your boarding pass rather than handing your phone over to an agent for scanning.
Using Clear can also minimize the handling of your ID
Wipe down your surfaces using disinfectant wipes
Be prepared to quarantine if required. Many islands around the Caribbean have many security measures in place to prevent a quarantine. Be sure to research your location before you go.
The overall experience of flying during COVID-19 has been described as unusual and far from “normal”
Travel insurance is also super important, check out this highly informative article by Parlour Travel here
On the other hand (and with safety regulations in place), Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, St. Lucia and the U.S. Virgin Islands (though under a state of emergency) are now open for business with a limited amount of hotels ready for business.
Will you be traveling this summer?