PANDEMIC TRAVEL UPDATE

The latest on resorts, planes, and destinations for when you’re ready to go on vacation again.

by BECAH FLIEHS, LOVE TO TRAVEL

International and domestic travel slowed or stopped in 2020 while COVID-19 kept people close to home. As testing availability has increased and a vaccine seems to be on the horizon, we’ve been getting more travel questions. We wanted to share what’s happening regarding planes, resorts, and destinations to help your family decide if an upcoming vacation is right for you.

RESORTS

While each hotel has its own set of standards for COVID-19, there are a couple that stand out as best in class. For example, Hyatt Zilara Cancun provides guests with a bottle of sanitizer, wipes, and amenities in a sealed bag to guarantee a fresh set for each guest. Margaritaville Island Reserve in Riviera Maya takes temperatures at check-in and at each restaurant to monitor guests when they arrive and throughout their stay.

Most resort staff are required to wear masks, while guests are encouraged to wear them in smaller spaces like the lobby and elevators. Once you’re on the property, beach chairs are spread out, dining tables are seated every other, and occupancy is typically 50 percent or less. The experience feels more normal than not, allowing guests to enjoy the sunshine, water, and outdoors with minimal requirements.

We encourage everyone to ask the resort about their current procedures before you book, or even better, work with a travel agent who can point you in the right direction.

PLANES

With their enclosed space, airlines have had to improve and prove their safety to the public. Many have added cleaning procedures and steps to keep guests safe. All airlines are currently requiring masks while onboard planes. When masks are used, studies have shown that the air circulation and filtration with HEPA filters have drastically reduced the likelihood of spreading the virus. Delta has gone a step further and blocked off the middle seats, allowing only twothirds of the plane to be full through March 30, 2021.

Snacks and drinks are still provided via an individual bag of goodies handed to each passenger as they board. Every airline will have their own procedures, so we always recommend checking with them or your travel agent to make sure you understand any requirements needed to fly.

DESTINATIONS

Many states, countries, and islands are requiring some additional information of their incoming guests. Jamaica is one location that does require a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of travel to the island. Cancun asks tourists to fill out a health survey and pass a thermal scanning at the airport but does not require a negative test. Even states in the US, such as Hawaii, have had requirements like quarantining once you arrive. Check your destination to know the current regulations, or ask your trusty travel agent. //

HYATT ZIVA & ZILARA - CAP CANA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Located in the “Beverly Hills” of the DR, these fantastic resorts, which offer both a family side and an adultsonly side, would be the ideal location for your next trip. Only 15 minutes from the airport, Hyatt offers a beautiful white sand beach with shallow turquoise water, two large infinityedge pools, and even a water park for kids and adults alike.

DREAMS NATURA - RIVIERA MAYA, MEXICO

This brand-new resort south of Cancun offers an amazing mix of nature and luxury designed to look like the region’s remarkable cenotes. This resort features three large water slides, a kids splash pad, and a large infinity pool looking out to the ocean. But our favorite is the new aerial roller glider ride that slides guests through the air.

HARD ROCK HOTEL LOS CABOS - CABO SAN LUCAS, MEXICO

The Baja Peninsula provides a stunning backdrop for this resort that is the perfect mix of nightlife and sunny lounging. Grab a drink and take in the sunset around one of their pool firepits, or stay up late with live music in one of the many late-night lounges. During the day, enjoy the dry heat at the beach, waterpark, or in one of the five pools. Great for adults or families, with specific spaces for both, this modern rocking resort is a sought-after destination for anyone.