Von Trapp Brewing Bierhall

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

USATODAYSPECIALEDITION

FOR MORE THAN A year, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected our lives, our livelihoods and the economy, and upended plans for travelers across the world. There have been major developments on the health front, accompanied by cautious optimism that global travel could be embarking on a “new normal.”

As we continue to grapple with the unprecedented scope of this pandemic, some events, festivals and celebrations are resuming with varied stipulations and baseline measures that aim to reduce the spread of the virus while others remain suspended. And businesses across the country that remained open with safety precautions to provide lodging, food and transportation throughout the shutdown are welcoming more visitors.

The USA TODAY Network is committed to providing timely, engaging and accurate information in our coverage, but given the evolving nature of this health crisis, we realize that there will undoubtedly be changes to the accessibility of many of the locations, venues and services mentioned throughout this publication. Please check with businesses for the latest updates.

We also know that the travel and tourism industry is resilient. It has rebounded from natural disasters, economic recessions and other crises before, and while this pandemic is uncharted territory, it is our hope that national and international exploration will safely return to robust levels. In the meantime, we will continue to look beyond today and provide you with the amazing sights, sounds, tastes and experiences that await.

Lakes of the Clouds, New Hampshire

EMILY DAVENPORT/APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB

Deirdre van Dyk Issue Editor

USATODAYSPECIALEDITION