From the Desk of Clearissa Coward’s Command Center
How To Travel Safely During a Pandemic… 5 Tips From a Professional Travel Advisor
A Cozy Lifestyle with Clearissa Coward
Last week, I shared my travel tips from a novice traveler’s perspective. You all seemed very interested so I thought I would bring you tips from a professional travel advisor as well as a professional traveler. I just happen to have very good friends in the travel industry and because I care about you and want you to travel safely this holiday season, I am collaborating with one of those friends for this post.
There are affiliate links within this post. However, all opinions and ideas are my own. Clicking on and using the links to purchase products does not increase your cost at all. I appreciate your support.
My friend and travel adviser has traveled to 12 different countries during COVID and 38 prior to COVID so as you can see she is personally well-traveled. But wait there’s more (a little drama for you 🙂 ) she also has 22 years in the travel industry, 15 as an independent travel advisor, 3 as a Dream Vacations franchise owner. So you see, I have brought you a real pro.
Without further ado, let’s dive right into Mia’s travel tips.
How To Travel Safely During a Pandemic… 5 Tips From a Professional Travel Advisor
Mia Burwell – Genesis Travel Group Dream Vacations, Travel Safety Verified Advisor
COVID cabin fever is a very real thing, so many of us are ready to break free and make up for the last 18 months that we’ve been stuck at home! While we’re happy to be able to travel again, it can be a bit overwhelming to understand all of the protocols and requirements that are related to travel during this pandemic. As a professional travel advisor, I’ve spent countless hours in continuing education on the ever-changing landscape of travel during COVID. Check out these tips to ensure an enjoyable vacation:
Know the rules & expect changes – COVID rules, restrictions, and protocols can change at a moment’s notice! Testing, vaccination, quarantine orders, and even local activities are all subject to change. Travelers must be ready to roll with the punches. I promise, you’ll save yourself a lot of anxiety if you accept that there will be changes, but trust that every challenge/change can be managed!
- Gather your ‘safe travel’ kit – Your kit components may vary depending on your personal needs. We recommend hand sanitizer, antibacterial wipes, sanitizing spray, and masks. Travelers are now allowed to carry small cans of antibacterial spray-on planes in carry-on luggage, but you can pack full-sized items in your checked luggage! I also recommend trying a variety of masks to determine the best fit for you individually. You may be more comfortable with 1 mask for walking through the airport, but use a different one for just sitting on a plane, and still a different one for more physically demanding activities. Keep your Safe Travel Kit ready so that when it’s time to travel, you’re not scrambling to find things.
- Make a COVID testing plan – Many destinations and cruise lines require that travelers present a negative COVID test; additionally, travelers who are flying internationally will need to present a negative COVID test result in order to return to the US. Testing is widely available at many local pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics. For your return testing, be sure to confirm availability of onsite testing at your resort, or locally in your destination. At-home testing is another convenient option; these tests are monitored via telemedicine and some results may be available in as little as 15 minutes.
- Purchase Travel Insurance – Now, more than ever, it is extremely important to purchase travel insurance! Should you test positive for COVID prior to your trip, or prior to returning home, you could incur costs for additional testing, quarantining in-destination, and/or change fees. Travel insurance is the best way to protect your travel investment. It may also cover a variety of other expenses such as lost or stolen luggage, delayed or canceled flights, and even emergencies at home that require you to cut your trip short.
- Work With a Qualified Professional Travel Advisor – Just like you rely on your doctor as the expert for your health, rely on a qualified travel advisor to help navigate all of the intricate details of traveling during a pandemic. Protocols are constantly changing and your Travel Advisor will simplify and communicate all of the details to you to ensure that your trip goes as smoothly as possible. Should you run into any issues, your Travel Advisor will alleviate the stress of working with travel suppliers to resolve any issues.
I hope these tips help to provide a little peace of mind for your future travels. Travel right now is definitely a different experience, but with the right tips and tools, you can enjoy your Dream Vacation!
I hope you have found Mia’s tips helpful and will consider them when traveling this holiday season and as long as we struggle to get through the COVID situation. And if you are in the market for a professional travel advisor, consider Mia Burwell – Genesis Travel Group Dream Vacations, Travel Safety Verified Advisor. You can reach her at info@GenesisTravelGroup.com or (866) 830-5325. Wishing you happy and safe travels.
I hope you and your family will have a safe holiday season filled with family, laughter, and love. Happy holidays.
Thank you guys for all of the support you show to me and my blog. I feel so blessed because of you.
Until next time…I remain in my Element – God Bless!
Don’t forget to share this post with your friends & family. I greatly appreciate it.
Hugs & Blessings
Such good advice – I heard a few ideas I hadn’t considered. Thank you! Pinned and tweeted.
Thank you friend. Happy you got some new info.
Pingback: Wonderful Wednesday - Oh My Heartsie Girl
Thank you. Have very Merry Christmas.
Thank you for stoppimg in. I hope to see you again soon
Pingback: Wordless Wednesday, December 8, 2021 - Clearissa Coward's Command Center
Thank you.
Pingback: December Linky Party #2 DIY, Crafts, Recipes ⋆ My Crafty Zoo
Thank you.