Traveling Post-COVID 19

Cruises and theme parks and concerts oh my!

It's hard to believe that as more and more of the U.S. and world population embraces the COVID 19 vaccination efforts that we're starting to see a return to normalcy in the world and travel industry. There are several considerations to consider as you plan for travel during the upcoming year:

Vaccinated versus Unvaccinated

Certainly the biggest concern for travelers includes restrictions on vaccinated versus unvaccinated travels. While the debate over vaccination rages on, numerous industries have stated self-imposed rules on what vaccinated versus unvaccinated guests may do during travel - with some venues opting for the honor system and others requiring proof of full vaccination. As of this publication, Walt Disney World and DisneyLand Resorts have updated their Reopening Experiences - removing the mask requirement for vaccinated guests in almost all areas except for public transportation. While this has been viewed as a welcome return to the normal for some, others criticize the lack of monitoring guests for vaccination records as haphazard - citing that there is no way to trust that the mask-less crowds truly are vaccinated. The cruise industry is another venue hard hit by COVID 19 and the travel restrictions placed on the industry. Currently cruise lines in the U.S. have been given the option to either confirm that 95% of their crew and guests are vaccinated, or to operate several volunteer test voyages with safety measures - including mandated testing, face masks, and physical distancing, to demonstrate that cruises can operate safely. No consistent measure has been adopted across the board by the cruise industry, as of this writing. Lastly, some concerts and sports venues - such as the June 2021 Foo Fighters Concert in Madison Square Garden- are available only to fully vaccinated guests.

Supply and Demand

Whether you're hoping to visit the most magical place on earth, sail the seven seas, or check out road-trip worthy beaches, you've probably noticed that it is harder and more expensive to do so this year. As restrictions ease across the country - in correlation to vaccination rates rising - Americans are flocking to make the most out of their summer travel dates, leading to a lack of available lodging and steep price increases on what is left available. Some theme parks and tourist venues - Walt Disney World and Universal Studios included - have implemented reservation systems with statements that these reservation systems are here to stay. Regardless of your plans, one simply truth about travel in the foreseeable future is that you should expect to plan early or pay a premium to do so.... perhaps both

Costs are Rising

Another major factor impacting the travel industry is that costs are rising across the board, for everything. From labor shortages, to issues with supply chains being disrupted during 2020, we're far from being out of the woods in 2021. While demand for travel is at an all time high - companies such as American Airlines have had no choice but to cancel and change flights for customers due to a lack of trained pilots and support staff. Even basic costs of groceries and other staples are on a steep incline due to shortages in supply and a lack of skilled drivers able to deliver goods to retailers. This has lead to an overall increase to the cost of goods and services for consumers across the board.

 Planning is Essential

Whether you're braving one of the newly relaunched cruises, visiting a theme park, or staycationing within your state, I would expect you to plan for the unexpected when traveling in the foreseeable future. Budget to spend at least 25% more on overall costs, including food, gas, and clothing. Beware of last-minute deals, as many venues may require reservations that are not guaranteed with the price of admission