Category: Travel

How to Plan the Best Vacation in the Time of COVID

As more and more Americans are being vaccinated against COVID-19, many are experiencing a strange feeling for the first time in a little over a year – it’s called hope. While I’ve not received my vaccine yet, I find myself searching my travel agent back office planning the destinations I want to travel to, even if it’s not as rigorous as I had hoped my travel schedule would be in 2020. Even with the advent of the three vaccines currently approved for use in the United States at the time of this writing, there are still protocols that responsible travelers need to adhere to. This entry will focus on tips to make your travel easier. As we’ve seen things change, sometimes rather quickly, as it relates to information on the ground with COVID, I will point you directly to the CDC’s COVID Communication Resources for Travelers. Here you’ll be able to get the latest updates and click around to get the specific information you’re looking for.

Now, let’s get to hoping and planning for some sensible vacations!

Are you wondering how you can be sure you’re planning the best vacation? Are you not sure how to go about planning for your vacation this spring or summer? Depending on your circumstances and experience, planning a vacation can seem daunting. And a poorly planned trip can be more of a headache than a relaxing vacation. Here are some common tips to help you plan and get the most out of your vacation this year.

1. Flexibility

It may seem contradictory, but part of good planning is being flexible. If you expect every detail of your plan to play out exactly as it is on paper, you’re likely to end up frustrated. Some things are just not in your control. For instance, heavy traffic, flight delays, and weather can all affect your travel time. So, it’s a good idea to allow some extra time for these unpredictable things, and to have a back-up plan (more on that below).

Flexibility also allows for sight-seeing and other diversions. Unplanned stops can make for great memories and experiences.

2. Back-up Plans

It’s not a bad idea to have a back-up plan in case of unforeseen events. For instance, even if you leave early and allow time for a traffic jam, circumstances could come together in such a way that you have to spend the night somewhere before reaching your destination. Before leaving, scope out hotels that are along your route and bring their information with you.

3. Food

It can cost valuable time if you must hunt down a restaurant for every meal on travel day. Like the hotels, look ahead to find out where restaurants are located en route. Plan your travel time so that restaurant stops will hit close to mealtimes.

Also, on the topic of food – it’s a good idea to bring snacks, drinks, and non-perishables (like granola bars and tuna packets). This gives you an option if you run out of time and can’t stop for a meal, or it prevents having to find a place to pull off and buy a snack.

4. Pack Light, but be Prepared

It can be a little tricky to be prepared while keeping your packing light. The key is knowing what to be prepared for. For instance, you can’t be prepared for absolutely everything (or else you’ll end up taking the entire contents of your home along with you!); but you can prepare for some basic things. For instance, prepare for various weather events by packing outfits that can be layered (you can add or remove layers according to the weather). This saves space by not packing different outfits for each possible weather scenario, but it keeps you covered.

A basic first-aid kit is also a good use of your packing space. It doesn’t have to be big, but it can make all the difference.

Are you dreaming of travel, whether it’s to see family you haven’t seen in a year or to responsibly venture out of self-quarantine? I would love to hear your tips on how you make vacation plans. Share your thoughts in the comments…I may have some questions for you, too!

P.S. Please continue to wear your mask, remain physically distant and have hand sanitizer to keep yourself and others safe.

P.S.S. You can utilize travel agents like me of course but if you want to make your plans on your own and make HUGE savings, be sure to check into my Elevation Travel program where you can save up to 70% on your travel!

Top Winter Cruise Destinations

Hey there,

 

Doesn’t a warm, sunny cruise sound so good in the middle of a cold, damp winter? It’s a perfect escape that can provide all kinds of prodigious memories! You’ll have a chance to shop. Soak up sunshine, explore historic places and view spectacular, natural landscapes.

 

So, if you’re already feeling the telltale signs of cooler weather, here are some of the top cruise destinations for winter:

 

Australia and New Zealand

It doesn’t get much more “south” than the sunny southern hemisphere, which is in the middle of summer during January. You can scuba dive on the Great Barrier Reef, tour the Sidney Opera House, and visit the historic area known as “The Rocks.” In New Zealand, there are lovely national parks like Tongariro National Park and Fiordland National Park. Expect a cruise to this part of the world to last about two weeks.

 

South America

A South American cruise offers sightseeing in Peru, Brazil, Ecuador, Chile, and other destinations. You can see the Amazon River and the Galapagos Islands. When you choose a South American cruise, your choice is based on the sights you want to see, as there are many South American cruise routes.

 

Caribbean

On a Southern Caribbean cruise, you will get to see the islands that are dry and warm this time of year, such as Aruba and Barbados. This is a wonderful cruise for those interested in or fascinated by volcanoes. There are also dense rainforests on the islands of Grenada, Tobago, and St. Lucia.

 

Cruises to the Bahamas are included in Eastern Caribbean cruises, particularly those that set sail from Florida. The islands of St. John, the Bahamas, and Puerto Rico are usually visited on these cruises.

 

If you choose a Western Caribbean cruise, you can visit Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Cuba, and Cozumel.

 

Dubai

For an exotic cruise with a Middle Eastern flavor, Dubai is an excellent choice. There is also very good shopping in Dubai, and the beaches are said to be very beautiful.

 

Hong Kong

This teeming, vibrant city is a good cruise destination for the winter. Its impressive harbor, Victoria Harbor, provides a striking view. You can engage in dolphin-watching, or watch a “Symphony of Lights” at Victoria Harbor.

 

Hawaii

Another volcano-intensive cruise, a trip to Hawaii in the winter months is a tradition for some. The temperature in Hawaii remains pretty much constant, and the beautiful beaches and spectacular views make this a popular cruise in winter. You get all the exotic experience of an out-of-the-country cruise, but without worrying about changing currency or other headaches.

 

What did you think about this cruise list? Do you think I missed anything? Share your thoughts below in the comments.

 

P.S. If you’re looking to get away from the cold temperatures of winter, I can help since I’m an Independent Travel Agent. Check out my travel site or just contact me directly through The Libra’s Balance contact form. Let’s chat!