Founder Christine Drinan’s Predictions on Travel
This is not to tell you that I have a crystal ball and know what will happen in travel in the next few months. I’ve gotten a lot of questions from you, though, about whether or not you should be traveling. How will the Delta variant impact your plans? Is there insurance for Covid? And will we shut down again? Here are my thoughts.
I’m not going to bury the lede. I’m in the camp that believes Covid is here to stay, at least for the next few years. The duration and intensity of the virus, though, depend on how accessible the vaccine will be to the world population. And, of course, how quickly we get out of this depends on whether individuals make the choice to get vaccinated.
This, Too, Shall Pass
I’m not a scientist or medical professional, but my prediction is that, at some point, this virus will run its course. During the Spanish Flu of 1918–1920, millions of people died, but it ran its course with no vaccine. So my eternal optimism predicts that the same will happen with Covid, and one day, it will be as common as the flu. Maybe even a gentle cold. Until then, though, Covid is something we will need to manage. And each of us has a personal decision to make on how to ease back into life, as well as travel.
One year ago, the world just opened up and a few adventurous people began to travel again. I include myself in that group; during the pandemic, I was on over 36 flights across four countries. We did not yet have a vaccine. The entire world was different, yet we all found a way to make that period of time work. I would say that, with all the innovations in travel and dining this past year, we managed remarkably well.
It’s Looking Up
I frame this to put the current situation into perspective for where we are at today, August 2021. My assessment, even with the Delta variant, is that we are in a much better position. In my opinion, it is unlikely there will be another massive global shutdown. So no need to hoard toilet paper or buy extra freezers again. I actually think things will only continue to improve. This is not to say there won’t be plateaus in between, but I’m bullish on global recovery. I’m also bullish on travel in general. If bookings this summer in Aspen and for holiday 2021 are any indication, I think that certain segments of the travel market will rebound fully. However, for the majority of travel, including corporate travel, cruises and exotic locations like Asia, Africa and the Middle East, we will have to settle in for a longer-term recovery. While flights are currently full, they are full only to certain locations. So my trip to Mongolia may have to wait another year, but I am still on track to reach all 195 countries in the world.
My Two Cents
As for my advice for those who have asked, I think you should travel when you’re ready. I look at vacation as something to be excited about, not to dread. If you’re stressed about Covid, stay home, or take a road trip. There are so many beautiful places to travel in the US.
If you are planning to travel, I highly suggest getting travel insurance and supplemental Covac Global insurance. Regular travel insurance will not cover you unless you get Covid during your trip. Covac Global will help you with the unpleasant additional expenses until you are deemed eligible to fly again. It will also help out if you need to be evacuated.
On a Positive Note
Of course I can’t end on that doomsday scenario. I’m in the field for the rest of the year, and I can say, it’s nice to be back. Expect on-the-ground coverage in Europe as our travel show begins to film this fall. Also, we will be launching reviews on our website, so please stay tuned. You have been my best travel resource, so if anything, I’m looking forward to enjoying your hotel and restaurant recommendations this coming year. After all, it’s a big, beautiful world.
See you out there.
Christine Drinan, Founder
