How Summer Plans Will Change Because of COVID-19
The coronavirus pandemic is just starting to ease in some areas, but infections are just starting to rise in other places around the globe. Non-essential travel is still prohibited in most states, borders are still closed, festivals and sporting events are still canceled, and even some national and state parks are closed or offering only limited access to outdoor spaces. Here is what some are saying about how summer plans will change because of COVID-19.
Taking the “Non” Out of “Non-Refundable”
Non-essential travel is out until the CDC and local public health authorities believe the danger of transmission has decreased significantly. Until then, travel restrictions and stay-at-home orders are likely to remain in place. Even when state authorities decide it is safe to begin easing restrictions, the process is likely to be measured and gradual.
Airlines and hotels have shown a willingness to be flexible by waiving change and cancellation fees. Many have eased cancellation penalties and are offering vouchers or deep discounts on future travel. The travel industry hopes for a rebound in the fall (assuming there is no resurgence of COVID-19, which is entirely uncertain at present) and expects a major bounce-back next year when a vaccine may be nearer to reality. Some travelers are already snapping up discounted deals for future travel. Consult a professional travel agent for recommendations on what to do about future travel plans.
Hometown Becomes Hot Town
The staycation may be the new norm for summer 2020. Even if museums and theaters are closed, it is still possible to get out for a drive with a guidebook and learn about local history and geography. Day trips may offer access to wide-open spaces for picnicking, hiking, or cycling while accommodating recommended social distancing practices. The national park service has recommended checking with individual parks about closures and has posted information on the park service’s response to COVID-19. If you find an open park near you, choose a less popular day or time to go. A day trip allows you to get out and get back home, and to stay within a generally known territory without being stranded across a border or finding yourself subject to a two-week isolation period.
Home as Spa, Theater, and Restaurant
Staying home has been stressful for families, couples, and singles alike. People have become creative with ways to stay entertained at home, and that will continue as we find ways to celebrate summer from the living room or backyard. Ways to stay upbeat and fight the feeling of restriction include self-care options such as finding a flattering summer dress, ordering a basket of spa products online, or planning a double-feature movie night at home. A meal delivered from a favorite restaurant served on the “good dishes” with a soothing dinnertime playlist streaming in the background can take the place of a visit to the restaurant itself, and ordering for take-out or delivery might just help keep a favorite eatery in business until dining rooms can open again. Backyard barbeques with friends and family will go online through the many free video chat services that make it possible to socialize at a safe distance.
Summer 2020 will be a summer no one will soon forget. Although COVID-19 will change plans for summer activities, it won’t keep summer from coming, and people will find ways to enjoy the season close to home.
