BY MOLLIE MANDELL, HERRICKS TRAVEL AMERICAN EXPRESS
The ongoing situation related to COVID-19 has completely changed the travel landscape, but that does not mean you can’t travel. There are still ways to keep that traveling spirit alive and well. Presently there are over fifty countries that are welcoming U.S. travelers. Planning ahead for future trips also keeps our travel dreams fueled as we look forward to getting out more.
As a Travel Consultant with Herricks Travel American Express, it’s my job to ensure that your trip is stress free door to door. With so much information online, it’s easy to get lost and confused when researching destinations and COVID-19 regulations. That’s why using the services of a real live person is so important. A Travel Consultant helps you cut through the clutter and misinformation and gets you traveling sooner.
Right now, traveling involves new protocols and it’s important to be aware of these rules while en route, at your destination, and upon your return. Testing and documentation are often required prior to entry, and some countries and states require quarantine upon arrival or return home. Mask wearing and social distancing is now standard. But, even with these new regulations, there are still opportunities to explore.
Not ready to get on a plane just yet? There are a variety of driving destinations that can be tailored to families, a girls’ trip, or quick romantic weekend away. Upstate New York’s wine country, The Finger Lakes, offer year-round access to wineries and breweries, plus hiking and antiquing. Just north of Manhattan, the Hudson River Valley offers loads of outdoor activities like apple picking and leaf peeping which is especially colorful this time of year. Long Island’s North and South Fork offer a plethora of inn’s, wineries, farms, and beach resorts.
Looking to plan a driving trip outside the Empire State? New York has been working closely with its state neighbors (NJ, PA, CT, MA) when it comes to managing travel restrictions. Because of so much interstate commerce, New York has been hesitant to add certain states to the quarantine list. But the situation does constantly evolve and it is important to check the state website for the most up to date information before planning a trip.
If possible, head north to the coasts of Connecticut, Massachusetts or Rhode Island which offer a wonderful selection of seaside resorts and historical points of interest including Mystic Seaport’s Maritime Museum and Newport’s Gilded Age Mansions. Looking to start planning a ski trip? Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine have cozy inns and manor homes complete with accommodations with fireplaces for après ski relaxation.
Prefer a weekend in the city? Boston and Philadelphia are great options for a driving trip within just a few hours. Many properties are now open with increased sanitizing and attention to guest safety. Some museums are welcoming a limited number of guests through timed entry tickets including Philadelphia’s Barnes Foundation and Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts.
If you prefer a quick trip, a staycation in Manhattan is a great option. Spend a weekend in a hotel downtown and take the ferry and visit the grounds of the Statue of Liberty, walk the Brooklyn Bridge, or head to One World Observatory for amazing 360-degree views.
If you would like to get back in the air and escape the winter’s cold temps, I recommend jetting to the Caribbean or Mexico. Riviera Maya’s coast is lined with resorts and is easily reached via Cancun airport. Costa Rica also just recently announced that it is accepting U.S. travelers. Many islands are welcoming travelers and resorts are excellent places to social distance and spend time in open-air accommodations and restaurants.
Although the cruise industry is mostly “on pause” right now, Herricks Travel is receiving bookings for upcoming itineraries in 2021, 2022 and beyond. Most cruise lines are offering flexible booking and cancellation clauses, so if there is a bucket list trip you have an eye on, I recommend checking it out now and putting down a deposit to hold the dates because popular itineraries will book up and may have decreased capacities to satisfy social distancing. When cruising does come back, there will be strict protocols for testing, cleaning, and ensuring that customers have a smooth sailing experience. There will be some changes, but any great trip does require some flexibility and open-mindedness. Plus, there will probably be some incentives out there to get you back on board.
There are many Travel Trends that are driving the return to travel. Here are just a few:
Remote Outdoorsy Vacations – hiking, trekking, sailing, kayaking, fishing.
Integrating Volunteerism: a great way to add value to your experience, make a difference, and feel like you are contributing to something positive.
Some families are looking at Pod Travel: traveling with your friends and family in a private group tour with everyone participating in COVID testing prior to departure.
On the Luxury End, there are lots to indulge in including private air, villas, and yacht charters, or buyouts of small properties and lodges.
With many working remotely, there are plenty of options to Live/Work while away since many properties are offering upgraded WIFI and personal workspaces.
Another focus is on Restorative Experiences that integrate wellness, health, and mindfulness to soothe the body and soul.
For children attending school online, moving their Remote Learning experience to a new destination will give them a whole new perspective on what life is like outside their usual environment. Many properties offer long term rates and special amenities for kids.
Prior to traveling, it’s very important to review all testing and quarantine requirements for both your home state and your destination by checking the CDC website and NY.gov. Travelers ARE resilient and confident in the future and we will get back on the road, in the air, and on the sea and satisfy our need to travel… safely, of course.
Herricks Travel American Express can offer our clients upgraded amenities like resort and cabin credits, complimentary breakfast, and VIP service. For travel inspiration, itinerary suggestions, and packing tips, please check out my travel blog, uniquefamilytraveler.com.
For help planning your next trip, email me at mollie@herrickstravel.com.