The travel industry was one of the hardest hit industries in the pandemic. Since February I have found myself spending more time re-booking clients’ dream trips to next year than creating new ones. We have all had to shift, pivot and get creative to keep our lives and businesses going.
It is no surprise the travel industry was one of the hardest hit industries in the pandemic we are all facing. Since February I have found myself spending a lot more time re-booking clients’ dream trips to next year than creating new ones. We have all had to shift, pivot and get creative to keep our lives and businesses going. It feels like we've gone backwards from thriving to surviving.
The Rise of Virtual Travel
Facebook Live, Zoom and virtual travel webinars with my partners have become the new normal.
- Recently, I held a virtual South Africa wine tasting event with the Women’s Wine Guild of Colorado and others that are enthusiastic about wine and travel. It was a great escape - a way to travel mentally without leaving our homes. We were temporarily transported to Africa as Harry, a wine master in the region, told us in his thick accent about the history and culture of Badenhorst family wine, while tying in stories of his in-person tours and surfing on the coast.
- This week I will be going live on my Facebook page with Quark Expeditions to recount my unforgettable Antarctica adventure this past January.
- In two weeks I will once again be hosting a virtual travel webinar - this time on Colombia and Argentinian wine with my partner Big Five Tours.These events are free and created to build connection, community and lighthearted fun during an uncertain time. Not the same as real travel, of course, but enough to keep the excitement, inspiration and lure of far-off places alive in our hearts. Many people have reported increased levels of wanderlust during lockdown, so these virtual events can help lightly scratch that itch as well.
Recommendations
I know many of you miss travelling equally as much as I do right now. Now, more than ever, it is imperative to use a travel advisor to book your next trip. We are most up to date with shifting policies and regulations, offer 24/7 support and save clients’ precious time, stress and often money. With my Virtuoso affiliation, I can typically offer free perks too at high-end resorts (think- spa credit!) I had a handful of people contact me over the past several months that could not get through to Expedia and were desperate for advice and guidance for their upcoming vacation. Do not let that be you!
Here are some tips and travel trends for summer 2020.
Travel Advice
- Use a Travel Advisor
- Purchase "Cancel for any Reason" trip insurance
- Check the CDC website for up-to-date travel restrictions and notices
- Stay flexible, patient and open-minded. We WILL be able to travel again soon!
Travel Trends
- Ranches are popular (Resort at Paws Up is a favorite that is currently open)
- Road Trips are big (happy to provide suggestions based on your location)
- Long term vacation rentals (month or longer) are popular near beaches, lakes, trails, etc. such as the Outer Banks in North Carolina, oceanfront in Maine, and various destinations in Florida
- Alaska and the National Parks offer ideal summer 2020 destinations
- Private vehicles and tailor-made US itineraries (Example: Phoenix to Moab, hitting the Grand Canyon, Lake Powell, Monument Valley, Arches National Park and ending in beautiful Moab)
- Mexico and Iceland plan to re-open for tourism in June
If you are feeling that wanderlust, don't hesitate to reach out. I am happy to provide custom suggestions for your upcoming getaway both here in the US and internationally.
I post deals, updates and stories of epic adventures on social media. You can follow me on Facebook or Instagram. Feel free to sign up for my free e-newsletter. I am looking forward to connecting with you!
“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.”
Continental landing in Antarctica (January 2020)
Amalfi Coast - Positano, Italy
Bogota, Colombia with their famous graffiti
Guest Post by: Michele Friedmann, Travel Advisor, Blogger, World Explorer Michele Travelsmichele.friedmann@gmail.com - 610.823.9971
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