Look for events i.e. Big Bear’s Wine Walk last held in 2019 to return in the near future. Photo by Greg Zook
As vaccinations rise and Covid restrictions decline, the travel industry is exploding with special offers over the next 18 months in almost every sector. Initially, airline seats unexpectedly sold at greatly-reduced then markedly-increased fares as those who could wait no longer were booking tickets to anywhere vacant seats would take them. Totally unexpected? Yes and no. There are those who think they are invincible and willing to risk anything to desegregate. Any possible consequences are for other folks. All that aside….
Vacation homes, B&Bs and other short-term single property rentals began selling early while most hotels remained nearly or completely shut down. It makes sense seeing that the use of masks and social distancing is just occasional and people are free from the 24-hour confines of all-too-familiar settings. Families and close friends can actually see one another smile again — in person — watching the sunset shimmering on the waters from a beachfront or lakeside setting, exploring mountain villages and forests from a cozy cabin, enjoying golf from their fairway condo, exploring small towns from country houses or city attractions from condos — with many being pet friendly. They can dine together, laugh, and hug. If cooking in rental kitchens becomes tiresome, they can bring back take-out or try a new recommended restaurant patio.
With 65% of Americans currently having at least one shot and new cases markedly decreased, we can expect domestic travel to open up far more quickly than international. To expedite the numbers vaccinated and continuing toward our goal of herd immunity, a potpourri of incentives is being offered to the unvaccinated by various levels of local governments, industries, and businesses. United, American, Delta and Southwest airlines have launched sweepstakes giveaways. MBL teams are aboard with free Yankees and Mets tickets, and the NFL is giving away tickets to Super Bowl LVI. Some states are offering lotteries and drawings with jackpots up to $5 million. Locally, look for free fries, pizza, donuts, beer, and discounts to restaurants, movies and sporting events. Even dry cleaners and clothing shops are participating. Check your local media.
Before planning any international travel, check reliable sources i.e. COVID-19 Travel Recommendations by Destination | CDC. Many countries are still far from safe. Verify their status, arrival restrictions and other conditions before purchasing that airline ticket.
Stay tuned as we continue our post-Covid luxury travel news, updates, and special offers!!!
