Luxury Destination Travel Post-COVID: 5 Things to Consider

Posted on Feb 6 2021 - 11:50pm by Katie Tejada

While many favorite global destinations were off-limits in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, 2021 and beyond promises a post-COVID world. Thanks to the steady rollout of vaccinations, we can look forward to travelling in a post-COVID world sooner rather than later. As we plan our future luxury travel trips, it’s important to think about where to go, what to do, how to get there, and more.

  • Where to Go
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Deciding where to go is the first step in traveling after the virus. You will need to pay attention to what health requirements certain countries require, so as to choose countries with few entry requirements or ensure you’ve taken the correct steps before embarking on your trip.

Some countries will open to tourists earlier than others. In fact, countries such as Costa Rica have already been open to tourists for months—you don’t even need vaccination to take a holiday at a private luxury vacation rental in Costa Rica (at the time of writing). Conversely, other countries and even airlines are likely to require proof of vaccination before you can enter the country or aircraft. So be sure you’re aware of the necessary health requirements for your destination and transportation of choice.

If you’re having trouble deciding where to travel, it might be helpful to consult with a luxury travel expert, whose job it is to stay up-to-date on the latest travel requirements. They also have the connections and experience necessary to plan a customized and seamless vacation for you. If you choose not to consult with a travel professional, ensure you check and double-check the health requirements you’ll need to fulfill before embarking on your trip.

  • What to Do
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Once you’ve decided where you’re going, it’s time to check out the available activities. If you’re heading to Africa, for example, going on a safari to see the wildlife is an unforgettable experience. Or, if you’re heading to a big city like Paris, consider historical tours or visits to local cafes.

Don’t forget to build time into your schedule to relax. A vacation isn’t really a vacation if you’re stressed about making a bunch of deadlines or adhering to an inflexible plan. Having at least two rest days built into your schedule (depending on how long you’re traveling) can help everyone unwind and enjoy themselves.

  • How to Get There
post-covid

One of the most important considerations for traveling post-COVID is which transportation method is safest and most convenient. No matter whether you’re flying in-country or internationally, you’ll likely need to participate in pre-flight virus testing to make sure you’re clear to travel. It’s crucial to book your flight and your pre-flight test at the required intervals to obey all safety precautions.

If you’re driving, you’re less likely to need a test. However, you should still obey all health and safety protocols of the areas you’re traveling through and traveling to. This is especially true for road trips where you may be crossing multiple borders.

  • What to Eat

Arguably one of the best parts of any luxury vacation is the food. Fine dining can make the difference between an “okay” getaway and one you’ll savor. When you’ve decided where you’re going, search for the best local restaurants and eateries to sample once you’re there.

Don’t rely only on the “big name” restaurants—ask the locals or a coffee shop barista for their favorite recommendations. You can discover hidden gems with truly authentic cuisine when you venture from the well-worn tourist path.

Restaurants and the food industry, in general, were hit hard by the pandemic, so the coming months and years are going to be crucial for keeping smaller restaurants afloat. Next time you travel, forgo eating at international chain restaurants in favor of supporting local establishments.

  • What to Pack

What to put in your suitcase will be even more important in post-COVID times. Whether or not masks are still required at your destination, they’re almost certain to be required on public planes for a while, and it’s still a good idea to take a few masks even if you’re flying private.

Similarly, don’t make the mistake of thinking hand sanitizer and cleaning wipes will no longer be needed post-COVID, these supplies were a good idea before COVID and they’ll continue to be a good idea after the virus is under control. You don’t want to get sick from getting any virus at all during your trip, so it always pays to quickly sanitize often-touched surfaces like light switches, doorknobs, and the toilet handles at your destination. A COVID vaccine doesn’t equal protection from every virus.

Post-pandemic travel is closer than ever since COVID-19 first emerged. While many people are understandably eager to revisit their favorite destinations as soon as feasible, be sure to keep these important tips for traveling in a post-pandemic world in mind before your next trip.

Katie Tejada

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About the Author

Katie Tejada is a writer, editor, and travel enthusiast. With a love for adventure and the great outdoors, she enjoys writing about various places, events and destinations, but also covers other topics as well, including real estate, finance, and law, among others.