Post COVID-19 Travel Speculations – Things we think are likely to change _ Travel challenges after COVID-19 – How to travel after COVID-19.
The Outbreak of the lateset strain of coronavirus known as COVID-19 has created a havoc in almost every corner of the world. Lots of people have died, or lost loved ones including close family and friends, infections are still ongoing, countries (and regions) have impossed a lockdown, many industries are at standstill, millions are being laid off and global economy is suring great downfall…..to mention at least.
The Travel industry In which Realm Africa Safaris™ and other player has equally suffered: several airlines are either bankrupted or near compete shut down, hotel industry is almost completely out of business around the world and travel industry in general is very much at a full stop.
The current COVID-19 pandemic will leave lasting impact on human behavior, way of life, economy and travel plans in the future.
Let’s see what will change for a common traveler when COVID-19 is over. Yes, we are optimistic and hope that this will end soon.
Post COVID-19 Travel Speculations
Travel might become more expensive
That’s right, with many travel related industries collapsing, demand might grow considerably higher than available supply of travel services, so prices might go up. With less competition among airlines, hoteliers and tour operators, there will be less offers and deals. There will be no need for discounts and offers if all the seats or safari packages are fully booked.
On the other hand, if oil prices remain low, this might affect positively prices of air travel as large part of ticket price is based on fuel expenditures. It remains to be seen how this will unfold when everything goes back to normal.
There might be some other expenses indirectly related to travel & tourism that might incur in this situation and they will be listed further in this article.
You might need to pack differently after COVID-19 is gone.
Our habits of traveling light might be altered a bit – we might need to bring extra clothes, face masks, gloves, hand sanitizes and some extra medicine (just in case). All this won’t be able to fit into a carry-on, so extra luggage is to be expected. This will, of course, increase trip budget payments for the purchase related to COVID-19 protection gear and equipment.
You might need to obtain mandatory vaccination or medical certificate
It is still not clear how the movement of people between the countries will be facilitated: mandatory health certificate, mandatory health check upon entry, quarantine, etc.
In case the COVID-19 vaccine is developed and approved for public use, some countries might ask for it with certificate proof required at entry points. Similar requirement is for Yellow Fever vaccination for travellers to Africa. (see: list of countries that require a yellow fever certificate on entry)
Until the vaccine is available, countries will probably ask for some sort of recent medical certificate to confirm that you are COVID-19 free. This will add extra cost and additional hassle for your travel plans.
Airport queues might become longer
In a situation where you will probably have to wear face mask and gloves, have additional medical certificate or vaccination certificate and even subjected to quick COVID-19 medical exam- perhaps using the rapid test kits – temperature check, etc, queues at the airport might just become longer and more painful.
This will add to your waiting time and become stress factor in the future. Hopefully, airports will be prepared for new measures and make our travels less hectic.
You will need to be prepared better for emergencies while you travel
More than before, traveling abroad will require from you to become more vigilant and more aware about your surroundings and global situation.
To be on a safe side, you will need to purchase travel insurance, in case your credit card company doesn’t provide comprehensive travel insurance coverage. Do a research before your next trip, it is better to be safe than sorry.
You will need to make sure that there are adequate medical facilities in the area where you travel in case of any emergencies and to have information about your country’s embassy or consular offices in destination country.
Current recommendations about washing hands regularly, keeping distance and not touching your face might be in place for extended period, so it will be new normal during your future travels.
And it goes without saying, if you notice any symptoms of COVID-19 or any other health problems, to immediately look for medical help.
You will not have time to waste!
Like with any emergency, don’t waste time! We know it is very frustrating to cut your hard-earned holidays and go back home because of emergency situation (global pandemics, natural disaster or political unrest), but the price to be paid is too much and again, better to be safe than sorry. There will always be chance to earn more money and days off to travel again #postponetravel #StayHome #staySafe.
Conclusion
Travel habits might change and travelling might become more expensive and more complicated, but we will need to adapt to a new reality. Most of the above listed examples of our Post COVID-19 travel speculations remain speculations!. Realm Africa Safaris™ is however committed to bringing you the latest, and most relevant COID-19 updates – We care to keep you informed!
