Covid-19 has literally changed the world as we know it. The pandemic amongst other things has taken a toll on the travel industry as well. Earlier, we were busy adding new places to our travel list but now staying home became the new norm. While travelling in this scenario is not advisable unless necessary, we were one of those who had too. And boy! what a change it was! As we are locked up in the safe confines of our homes, under quarantine, let us commemorate on how radically different travel in the times of Covid-19 has been.

Travel in the Times of Covid-19

Coronavirus has spread all over the world and has literally brought the world to a standstill. But as the countries are slowly opening up, the travel industry will also slowly inch towards normalcy. And it has to. The tourism and hospitality industry has seen the immediate effects of the lock-down. Right from airlines, hotels, travel operators; small businesses like that of tour guides, taxi operators and souvenir shop owners are badly hit with the lock-down. But there is a silver lining to this. According to a survey almost 70% of people are open to the idea of travelling by year end.

Sentiments

There is a lot of uncertainty about travel now. But we all know there will be a tomorrow where things will be as it used to be. Once the crisis is over, the World economy needs a lot of recuperating and the travel industry will be instrumental to this. Travel industry is diverse with many jobs indirectly linked to it which we can’t even imagine thereupon it supports 1 in 10 jobs. Moreover travel is also necessary to bring you out of your comfort zone and help you adjust to this new world with a new perspective. It will also bring hope and help you realize our dreams once again.

But till that happens lets see how different it is to travel in the time of the Corona virus.

Accommodation

Earlier hotels were all about luxury and pampering. But these days stay-cation has taken up a completely new meaning as the hotels now serve as a paid institutional quarantine centers.  The list of hotels in Delhi where you can spend your mandatory quarantine is as below:

Taking a Flight

This is how empty our flight and Delhi Airport looked during this pandemic

Many carriers are now offering flexible cancelling and rescheduling policy. The credit note they provide has a validity of one year. Make sure you read the terms and conditions before booking. However, if you are still required to travel ensure you follow the SOP of the airlines as well as the destination. Many cities require a min of seven days home quarantine after landing.

The airport and the airlines are striving hard to make your trip safe but for this you need to undergo a thermal testing and follow the social distancing guidelines. They also follow a compulsory mask policy. You need to web check-in, attach your baggage tag and download Arogya Setu App before arriving at the airport.

Tip: Reach the airport at least 3 hours before in case of domestic and 4 hours for international flights.

Road Trip

Taking a road-trip is considered safer than any other mode of transport in the pandemic. It provides the very much needed – social distancing. Of course you must avoid the Covid hotspots. However, you are required to have the necessary paperwork and passes as different states in India follow different guidelines. Its advisable to carry your own food and water so that you need not stop at midway restaurants.

Travel Insurance

Earlier like many others I too didn’t care much about Travel Insurance. But it is a good idea to get insured in today’s scenario. It is always advisable to read the terms and condition and also the cancellation policy before buying an insurance. This will be helpful if you have to cancel your travelling plans at the last minute. Also, do check the travel insurance offers available on your credit cards.

Also Read: Everything You Need To Know About Travel Insurance

Packing

Gone are the days when we used to travel with in vogue hand bags. Now all that we care about is whether the luggage can be easily sanitized or not. Apart from other things the essentials these days are disinfectant wipes, loads of sanitizers, sprays, gloves, face shields and masks. Keep some dry snacks handy to avoid eating outside.

As the world is in rebound and the travel industry is slowly opening up. As you plan your travel be informed about the travel restrictions the cities are following and follow all the safety guidelines. Travelling in the times of Covid-19 may seem scary and stressful but the right safety measures will ensure yours and others safety. Here are some pointers to ponder:

General Precautions

Download the Arogya Setu App (Do not forget to register yourself on it)

Sanitize, Sanitize and Sanitize! Sanitize each and every surface you may come in contact with.

Limit your lavatory usage. (This was a little difficult for me as my lil one wants to use one every 45 mins)

Wash your hands frequently (if you can) or use an alcohol based sanitizer.

Carry loads of sanitizer and disinfectant wipes with you. (And make sure you use it)

Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth (You can also apply some tabasco on your fingertips. It may sting the first time but the stinging will remind you not to repeat it ever again! Disclaimer: Haven’t tried this tip though. You can comment your experience once you try it)

Carry your own food if possible. Many eateries are still closed. (Trying out different cuisines and restaurants will have to wait for some time)

Carry your travel and health insurance papers with you. (Hope you do not need it but keep it handy to be sure)

Maintain appropriate social distancing. (You can save the handshakes, kissing, hugging, nose rubbing and other customary greetings for the future when things get better) Go with the traditional Namaste!

Be a responsible traveller. The safety precautions you take can safeguard you as well as people around you. (No matter how adventurous you are, this is not the time to take unnecessary risks)

Also Read: Vande Bharat Mission Repatriation Flights – 8 Tips for travellers headed to India

Vande Bharat Mission Repatriation Flights – 8 Tips for travellers headed to India