Traveling in the Time of COVID

Be prepared for anything this summer – and always play it safe

BY MARCIA BIGGS

In early June, Florida tourism destinations began to cautiously welcome back visitors. Since mid-March, no place has been immune to the COVID-19 pandemic shut-downs, from big beach resorts to small inns and short-term Airbnb rentals across the state. Now heading into prime summer travel months, hotels and resorts, theme parks and attractions are slowly opening back up, but travelers should not expect business as usual. Travel, at least this year, will be a whole new trip.

According to a AAA survey, nearly half as many Floridians will travel this summer versus last summer. The survey found that 57% of travelers will take fewer trips as a result of the coronavirus, and when they do travel, they will drive and stay closer to home. AAA’s Summer Travel forecast, which uses key economic indicators (versus a survey), indicates Americans are still making travel plans, though more cautiously and spur of the moment, often seeking long weekend getaways instead of extended vacations.

Car trips reign supreme accounting for 97% of the favored mode of transportation.

“The coronavirus has had a signifi cant impact on travel this year,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “This means more people are opting to take a road trip, instead of a fl ight, to avoid being in close quarters with strangers. The added value in driving is that summertime gas prices are the lowest in 15 years.”

The 2020 summer travel season looks quite diff erent than in years past. Travel restrictions limit international travel opportunities, and some states require travelers to quarantine. Additionally, the CDC urges travelers to wear face coverings while in public, and to practice social distancing. The CDC lists airports, bus stations, train stations, and rest stops as places travelers can be exposed to the virus.

PHOTOS/UNIVERSAL ORLANDO

What to Expect

Phased re-opening is the name of the game this year -- so don’t expect all experiences, exhibits and rides to be open. Resorts and theme parks are reopening with carefully managed plans that rely on safety and hygiene procedures based on guidelines from the CDC and health offi cials. Enhanced cleaning measures throughout the day will disinfect high frequency touch points, including ride restraints, tables and chairs, service counters, handles and door handles.

While most festivals and annual events have been cancelled, attractions have slowly been re-opening. The best way to determine the status of a destination is through their social media pages. Facebook, Instagram and Twitter offer immediate information, usually before web sites have a chance to be updated.

If you take precautions, this summer may be a good opportunity to re-visit Florida. The usual summer hordes and long lines will be reduced. Hotel rooms should be somewhat plentiful. Some attractions are off ering reduced admission, but reduced programming or closed exhibits and rides, too.

Remaining flexible is key if you plan a summer road trip. Be sure to inquire about cancellations and refund policies before you book. Many places are reviewing their policies and making them more flexible to accommodate changing travel plans, such as allowing people to rebook later.

And don’t expect hotels and resorts to be off ering deep discounts this summer. After two months of virtually no revenue, it’s reasonable to understand why regular summer rates will apply. Sure, you can still fi nd some deals, like fourth night free or no resort fees, but in general, our research for this story has found slashing of room rates uncommon at popular vacation destinations. Try checking the tourism web site for a Lodging Deals page and you might fi nd special off ers for 10% to 15% off .

TRAVEL TIPS IN THE TIME OF COVID

• Bring your own cleaning supplies for additional peace of mind and to sanitize high-touch areas like the remote control, phone, door handles, faucets. Bring your own face coverings and always carry hand sanitizer or hand wipes in your bags and backpacks.

• Understand the cancellation policy associated with any reservation you book.

• Make a habit of making reservations at restaurants, which are currently operating at 50 percent capacity. Request outdoor dining, if possible.

• If you are someone who likes your room cleaned daily, you may be disappointed. Many lodging facilities are suspending daily housekeeping services.

• Check web sites of your hotels and other lodging facilities to learn what safety measures are in eff ect, and what amenities are open and available, such as hotel pools. Hotel staff and guests are recommended to wear a mask or cloth face in public areas such as lobbies and indoor common areas.

• Self-parking is encouraged. If valet service is provided, disinfecting of any contact points within the vehicle will be required. Van and shuttle services may be limited or not off ered.

• Expect most attractions to require noninvasive temperature checks before entry. Those with a temperature above 100.4 F will not be allowed entry, nor will those in their party.

• Cash is no longer king. Credit and debit cards may be required, so don’t leave home without it.

• When at the pump, AAA recommends wearing disposable gloves or using a plastic sandwich bag to avoid touching the pump handle. When back in your car, be sure to clean your hands with sanitizer or wipes.

AAA has an interactive travel map you can use to check travel restrictions related to the coronavirus pandemic. You can also visit AAA’s Covid-19 Travel Restrictions Map at TripTik.AAA.com for the latest state and local travel restrictions.