Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling in Mid-2020

Traveling is complicated these days. Families can’t spontaneously pack the car or book a flight. Research and a plan are necessary to determine less-affected areas along with their safety measures. 

This puts wear and stress on families because their plans can change at a moment’s notice. To help avoid these circumstances and keep everyone calm, here are answers to some of the frequently asked questions about travel, given the current global situation.

How do I keep my family calm?

Don’t keep them in the dark. If you were the sole vacation planner in the past, it’s time to involve the rest of the family. They need to know the options, the risk of illness, and how they can have a good time without fear of the coronavirus.

How do I keep myself calm?

First, don’t obsess about the situation. Be flexible when it comes to travel plans. If an area goes into a lockdown phase, look at other locations around the original destination. They might have lower risk rates.

Second, do something to avoid stress. Meditation works, as does CBD oil. Together, they can help reduce your stress. Another thing to do is to take a break from planning. If it doesn’t seem like things are going your way, step back for a day and come back with a fresh look.

Do I need to self-quarantine when we get back?

It depends on suggestions by the medical authorities of your destination and your home state. If the latter requests you self-quarantine, consider if it’s worth going in the first place.

Do we need to wear masks?

Again, this is up to the medical officials where you desire to travel. Most states and cities have asked residents and travelers to mask up when they’re in public places like museums or restaurants. 

On the other hand, masks may not be required if you visit a park or a beach. Though the virus is airborne, it only has a limited range. Therefore, you still need to maintain the proper social distance. 

Are amusement parks open?

Yes and no. Some of the major parks, like Universal Studios Orlando, Disney World, and Hersheypark are open with a slew of restrictions. On the other hand, as of this writing, amusement parks in California and other hot spots remain closed until infected numbers go down or have proper contingencies. 

By the time you read this, more amusement parks should be opened or in the process. Overall, review their pandemic plans and recommendations before you make a trip. Also, if it can wait until next summer, hold off. Wearing a mask in Disney World when it’s 90 degrees with the same percentage of humidity can cause people to get sick.

Can I swim in the ocean?

Yes, you can. Especially if you visit an area with a large swath of beach. One, it allows you to avoid other travelers. Two, it minimizes your risk of getting sick.

Can I swim in a pool?

That’s up to the location and daily pandemic numbers. In some areas, travelers are asked to make a reservation to swim. This helps increase social distancing and eases the stress of your family. 

You still need to wear a mask when not in the water. Also, some pools may ask you to bring your chairs to prevent cross-contamination.

Can I eat at a restaurant?

You can eat at a restaurant. However, some locations may be closed due to surges in infections or lack of staff. If a restaurant is open for indoor dining, contact them ahead of time to see if they require reservations.

The good news is many restaurants have made changes to accommodate diners. One is to increase the size of their outdoor dining areas. These spaces offer the proper social distancing measurements, so your family doesn’t have to wear masks.

Unfortunately, the pandemic is a fluid situation that changes daily. (The World Health Organization publishes a travel guidance page.) To prevent frustration and make your trip enjoyable, take it one day at a time. Also, be flexible in your destinations. Finally, if you or your family feel uncomfortable, postpone the trip for another time. It will provide an additional modicum of safety for you and those of other states.