By Lilly Miller
In the next several months, we can expect some of the lockdown rules to slowly be deemed unnecessary, and we’ll likely be able to start traveling internationally again sometime next year. While we’re getting ready for this new normal and the post-lockdown scenario where the virus still exists, we can benefit from planning our trips accordingly. That means that we should consider the importance of mindful travel, taking excellent care of our hygiene, and picking places that put a great emphasis on safety.
Another key factor to note is social distancing. In the months to follow, we should travel to places that aren’t crowded and where we can restore our wellbeing and reconnect with nature. Of course, certain cities should also be on our travel list, as long as we can travel safely. Here, we’ll tackle a few worthy destinations and tips to travel safely in the post-lockdown months, so that you can plan your trips well in advance and enjoy them to the fullest once the world is once again ready for international travelers.
Mindful travel to Italy
Since Italy has been hit by the pandemic from its earliest stages and has suffered greatly, it’s important to note that this European country remains a top travel destination, with the right precautions in mind. You should travel to Italy not only to see its many urban and cultural landmarks but also to revel in its vast natural beauty.
Millions of people in Italy depend on tourism, so your trip to this country will help restore their economy, and you’ll be able to choose spots that are more secluded. Consider visiting villages such as Campli or Monteverde, and you’ll have a taste of genuine Italian spirit without the crowds Italian metropolises are famous for.
Safe trips in New Zealand
One of those rare countries that have taken exceptional care to slow the pandemic, New Zealand is a favorite destination for nature enthusiasts as well as people who value such a vested attitude towards health and wellbeing. With that in mind, visiting this majestic country and thus restoring their tourism is perfectly possible when you choose affordable destinations that allow social distancing and still enable a complete local experience.
When you plan to travel to New Zealand on a budget post-lockdown, choose a central hub such as Queenstown or Christchurch where you can stay and then explore the nearby nature, beaches, and sights. You can organize a road trip to enjoy everything both North and South islands have to offer and remain away from crowds while you admire the wildlife and local sightseeing jewels.
The mysteries of Scotland
While you might be tempted to go straight to Edinburgh and spend time with the locals in pubs, you should aim for remote and mysterious places where social distancing comes naturally – and where you can truly enjoy everything Mother Nature has to offer. Consider, for example, the remote Isle of Skye, a hiker’s dream come true, and a perfect escapade for nature lovers who need a change of scenery in the form of rugged landscapes intertwined with sweeping emerald meadows.
This enchanting trip into nature will allow you to immerse yourself in the beauty of Europe’s remote and rugged corners, but you’ll still get to enjoy the local culture and the authentic local experience.
Follow country-specific guidelines
Once the lockdown is lifted, people will resume traveling for all kinds of reasons, not just for the sake of vacationing in exotic places or classic touristy getaways. In fact, as the world slowly gets back on its feet, even versed traveling nomads will need to adapt to the new normal. If you’re traveling and working on the go, you need to make sure that you’re able to abide by the local rules on social distancing, hygiene levels, and similar restrictions. This is especially important if you’re planning to travel continuously as a digital nomad and remain healthy in the process.
Support local tourism
Wherever you reside, chances are that your local attractions are affected by the pandemic as much as the global travel scene. In a sense, the entire travel industry has suffered tremendous losses, and we have months, if not years of recovery ahead to restore this industry to its original shine. Even as travel bans lift, your decision to explore local natural reserves, eat at local eateries and book local tours can mean all the difference to your own travel ecosystem.
Being a mindful traveler sometimes means staying in the vicinity of your home while enjoying the wealth of wonders your own country has to offer so that you can help recover your local economy and tourism. Plus, this travel philosophy is in line with the need to reduce travel on the whole and to practice more social distancing. Local road trips, rural getaways, and the like can all help your own local system grow while you bask in the beauty of your nearby destinations.
As travel bans are slowly lifted and we can once again restore our travel plans, consider these destinations and essential tips for your future trips. Of course, all of our plans can change in an instant depending on the situation and the pandemic, but we can remain mindful of our travel plans and adapt to the current requirements so that we prevent the spread of the virus after the lockdown. Wherever you choose to go, always stay safe and focus on your wellbeing and that of your travel companions – and traveling in the new normal will be much more enjoyable for all.
