Every time a global tragedy strikes, it changes the world forever. Whether it’s the world wars, wildfires, earthquakes or outbreaks, life doesn’t remain the same in the aftermath. The COVID-19 pandemic has been the most recent event that divided life into before and after. One virus changed everything. The way we work, buy groceries, study, see our environment. And also the way we travel.
Earlier, planning a trip was all about packing your bags, keeping your tickets, following your itinerary. Now, after almost two years of being at home, travel has become much more than that. Health and safety have become the key elements of planning a trip. Everything else has become secondary. Although the global cases and deaths are simmering down, the pandemic still exists, and it’s not going anywhere soon.
If we take our vaccine doses and follow the safety guidelines, we might free ourselves from the clutches of this horrible disease. But if we don’t do our part, it can turn into something much worse. In the middle of these two realities, lies our present where people have started to book tickets, to quench their irresistible wanderlust after being cooped up indoors for more than a year now.
While countries have started reopening their borders and welcoming vaccinated tourists, it doesn’t mean you can lower your guard. Remember, it’s not 2019 anymore or any year before that. We are stepping into the post-pandemic era where caution is more important than leisure. Where your safety and health is more important than your travel destination. That’s why planning your trip is more important than ever.
We spoke to a few travel enthusiasts about their travelling plans, the safety precautions they’ll follow, and what it means to be finally able to travel.
What does it mean to travel after almost two years?
Sara Fathima: It’s very exciting to get back in the world and explore things. But there is always going to be the element of fear. I will be a bit anxious and nervous that I might catch the disease. But after staying at home for such a long period, I am willing to take that chance. I think travelling is important for mental health. One needs to get back into socialising and exploring various cultures and places.
Vivek MV: It’s a mixed feeling to travel after so long. While I think I deserve this break from monotony, I carry the fear of getting infected constantly with me.
Pratyush Pratik: It’s a wonderful feeling to be finally able to go to the places that you have been yearning to go. I am very excited that I will be wandering around the hills and waking up to beautiful mountain sunrises again.
What safety precautions will you adopt while travelling?
Sara Fathima: I will make sure that I get vaccinated before travelling. I will have my mask on and maintain social distancing. I will avoid public transport as much as possible, and follow all the safety protocols such as sanitising, washing hands, et cetera.
Vivek MV: Safety precautions will be the same as I took when I was in my city. I will be mindful not to drop my guard and try and avoid crowded places. If I find myself there, I will be extra careful. When I am out, I will always sanitise and wear a mask.
Pratyush Pratik: I will keep wearing a mask and sanitise regularly. Also, I will look for hotels that have high standards in following the protocols.
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