2020 shook a lot of stuff up for everyone – especially travel. But new year, new mentality: what can we do in this time of reflection and contemplation? Let’s use it to change our travel habits.
Traditional travel has, for the moment, been put on hold. But when it returns, do we want it back in the way it was? Should we not consider to move towards slow travel, sustainable travel, travel that is conscious and respectful of all and everything? If 2020 taught us anything, it is to appreciate all that we have. Let’s appreciate then, the fact that at the beginning of the pandemic, when people retreated to the confines of their homes, we were able to see nature reemerge. We were able to see such positive changes in a time of worldwide anxiety and grieving. Nitrogen dioxide levels fell, global carbon emissions fell, the Venice canals became cleaner and sea turtles returned to previously overcrowded beaches to lay their eggs in the Bay of Bengal.
If a reset can be brought on so quickly in these tourists hotspots, with such positive results after only a short while – we should then look to help create these results elsewhere, even when restrictions are lifted…and corona returns to being just a beer.
Maybe the silver lining of the global pandemic has been the wake up call it has given us, to a lot of things. Let’s care more – about each other, industries and people who have suffered, as well as the world which we often take for granted. Let’s do more – 2020 woke us up from the shutter vision we may have had to worldly things outside of our routine bubble. Let’s be more – when we return to the moving world, post-covid, let’s be the best versions of ourselves we can for the world and all the people in it.
So what can we do to shape our new travel world, post-pandemic? Here are some things to consider…
Slow Travel
Slow Travel is a great concept for us to bare in mind when re-entering the world of travel. With its focus on connection – let’s indulge ourselves in the experience of being able to freely move again. Let’s get to know the locals of our destinations, let’s try the local cuisine and let’s dance to the local songs we don’t understand the words to. When we visit these destinations, let’s be conscious of the environment we are privileged to see. Now more than ever, we need to ensure we are having a positive, sustainable effect on the local communities and areas we are visiting. Slow Travel also promotes the idea of visiting quieter, less crowded places – which many people may find more comfortable after having kept their distance for so long. A big crowd might be overwhelming for some struggling to find themselves in the post-covid world. Slow Travel will keep us conscious and kind throughout our journeys. Who wouldn’t want to aim for that?
Helping Out The Travel Industry
Any industry related to travel has been extremely hard hit by the pandemic. As travellers, we can help out by staying at local hotels (as opposed to large chains), we can shop local and avoid the all-inclusive complexes and even when booking, if you do need assistance, why not check in with your locally run travel agents to see where they can help out. From home to destination, there are lots of family run businesses who have suffered during the last year. Let’s try to bare local businesses in mind for the planning, accommodation and activities of future trips.
Road Trips
A road trip, while letting you experience your travel on a more personal level than flying, also lends itself to any last minutes changes that may arise from travel restrictions. Again, you may find being closer to home more of a comfort and a road trip, although potentially spanning different countries, keeps you relatively close to home and loved ones. A road trip is a great idea for multiple destinations and fits in with last minute planning (because we’re all a bit rusty at planning things aren’t we?!). If you’re not quite ready to leave the country again, keeping it local and exploring your own country also has its benefits – no language barriers, less expenditure and a great way to learn more about the land in which you live. Post-pandemic, it will help support businesses that have been struggling within your own economy.
Whatever You Do…
These were just a few things to consider while we’re all waiting for the world to reopen up. But when you do get out there, stay safe, happy, healthy and enjoy the freedoms which we are all so privileged to have. If you have any questions about this article we would love to hear from you!