Top tips for travelling during this period of uncertainty.
The thought of travelling in a pandemic can be daunting and you may have a lot of questions as to how to approach it in the safest way possible. After returning from my first trip since lockdown, here are my top tips to help you every step of the way.
Phase One: The Planning
Travel Advice
The FCO travel advice is changing constantly, with countries coming in and out of lockdown on a weekly basis. Make sure to have a good read of the Government’s advice before you travel, particularly if it will mean quarantine on your return.
See https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice for more details.
Check the Weather
When choosing a destination, make sure to look at the weather first. If you can find somewhere where al fresco dining is made possible due to warm evenings, then this is beneficial to sitting inside a crowded restaurant. https://www.thebesttimetovisit.com can give a useful insight as to where is best to go at any time of year.
Go off the Beaten Track
Choose somewhere less popular to tourists. This will automatically reduce the crowds. It doesn’t have to be a complete off road adventure, but just think-instead of being in a big city, why not try a region of that country that is less visited but still as beautiful?
Book Small Hotels
By booking a small hotel you are again limiting the number of people you will come in contact with. This also means the facilities such as the pool and spa will also be quieter. Try looking at specific boutique hotel websites including https://www.secretplaces.com and https://www.mrandmrssmith.com for some inspiration. Alternatively, Airbnb is another way to guarantee having an entire place to yourself (https://www.airbnb.co.uk).
Test Yourself
You may find it reassuring to book a Coronavirus test before and after your trip. This is not necessary but it is worth checking you are safe before you travel. The hotels will most likely require a temperature test on check-in and there may also be random testing in the airport.
Phase Two: The Travelling
Fly Early
Flying early in the morning will reduce the number of other passengers waiting around in the terminal building. Not all shops will be open with the restrictions in place and so there is not point in sitting in the terminal for hours waiting for your flight. By flying early there is also less of a risk of flight delays cause by late incoming aircraft.
Check the Paperwork
Some countries may require you to fill out a Mandatory Passenger Locator Form on arrival. You can find this information under the specific country on the FCO website (https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice). Remember you will also have to fill out one of these for the UK when you return within 48 hours of your arrival. You will find this form at: https://www.gov.uk/provide-journey-contact-details-before-travel-uk.
Pack lots of Masks
The current recommendation (July 2020) is to change your mask every 4 hours. I would recommend carrying lots of masks with you so that you can change them as and when you need freshening up sooner than the four hours. It is worth having a different mask for both the departure and destination airport also.
I would recommend a comfortable cotton mask to fly in that can be washed. This way you can reuse the masks during the trip. Also remember lots of hand sanitiser. It will need to be less than 100ml and be carried in an airport approved plastic bag.
Phase Three: The Exploring
Mornings are Best
If you particularly want to do something, whether it is to explore a local hot spot or simply sit by the pool, consider doing this in the morning. Generally things get busier as the day goes on, so this is one way to avoid the crowds and enjoy your activity.
Respect Local Rules
Be aware that other countries may have stricter or different rules that you are used to. Always be on the more conservative side and respect what you are asked to do. If unsure, ask one of the locals. Most shops and businesses will provide hand sanitiser and the staff should wear masks themselves with social distancing measures in place. If you feel uneasy at any stage then just move on.
Avoid Public Transport
If you are able to walk/cycle or even hire a car this is much better than using public transport. Consider how you will move about the local area and if you have to use public transport, make sure to carry appropriate masks and sanitiser. I use Rome2Rio to work out my best way to get around a place: https://www.rome2rio.com/ .
Stay Safe and Happy Travels!
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