There are a few things you should consider before you decide for traveling on summer vacation. They include money, safety, and weather. It’s also important to know where you’re going and where you’ll be staying.
Money
If you’re planning a summer vacation this year, you’ll need to bring some cash. Not only will you buy plane tickets and book hotel rooms, but you’ll also have to consider transportation and activities. Thankfully, there are ways to make your trip more affordable.
The best way to ensure you only spend what you can afford is to plan your vacation carefully. For example, consider booking a hotel in a location that has free attractions. Or you can use public transportation to travel to and from your destination. Consider camping, which is much cheaper than traveling by car.
Another way to save money is to stay with friends and family. You can also take advantage of credit card rewards. Millennials and Gen Zers are more likely to use their cards to offset travel expenses.
While traveling by car is often a cheaper alternative, you’ll have to keep an eye on gas prices in different states. Additionally, you can save money by waiting to fill up once you’ve crossed the state lines.
Taking advantage of special offers is always a good idea. Some airlines offer discounted flights, and AAA can help you find cheap hotels. Taking a city pass is another excellent way to save money. These passes cover multiple museums and sometimes include discounts for transportation.
Safety
The summer season means fun, sun, and relaxation but also increases the risk of heat-related illnesses and bug bites. According to the CDC, you should take safety precautions when traveling this season. Here are some of their top tips.
Travelers should be wary of ticks. These pests can spread several diseases, including dengue and Lyme. To avoid ticks, spray shoes with permethrin, wear insect repellent, and check for ticks daily.
If you are going to be traveling with children, make sure to supervise them. While swimming pools are fun for the whole family, they can also pose a dangerous risk. In addition, it’s essential to be aware of sharks. Young children should never dive headfirst into the water.
Water safety should be high on your summer travel safety list. Make sure your family knows how to swim and that all of them are wearing life vests. It’s also a good idea to carry an emergency kit.
Be aware of the risks to your health, and follow the CDC’s recommendations for vaccinations and health information. Keep in mind that the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides information and medicines for destinations across the globe.
Alternative accommodation options
Are you looking for a unique way to stay in town? Hotels are fantastic and offer a host of amenities for a price. However, if you are a savvy traveler, you know that the hotel industry is one of many options in your price range.
You can also look at boutique hotels offering a more personalized experience. Depending on the location, you can find a range of accommodations, from tiny bungalows to lavish mansions.
The American Hotel & Lodging Association estimates domestic hotel occupancy rates will soar to pre-pandemic levels in the coming year.
The most recent statistics show that vacation demand will increase by 27% compared to last year. To accommodate this surge in travelers, the hotel industry needs to develop new, innovative ways to woo guests. This includes the ever-popular alternative accommodation.
There are many websites, apps, and services out there that will help you do this. For example, make your travel experience a seamless one by using services such as FlipKey and Airbnb.
These companies offer various options and services, including short-term rentals, vacation rentals, and holiday homes. These options will save you the hassle of reserving a hotel room or renting a car.
COVID-19
When traveling on summer vacation, it’s important to remember to follow COVID-19 guidelines. While there are many places where the disease is still active, the infection rates are declining. As a result, travelers can feel confident this summer.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that people travel only with fully vaccinated individuals. This includes vaccinated children and adults. It’s also essential to follow all safety protocols to avoid spreading the disease.
Even if fully vaccinated, you may still be at risk for the virus. If you plan on spending a long time in a country with many COVID cases, consider getting a rapid test to ensure you are not infected. You should take the test three to five days after your trip.
CDC recommends travelers bring disinfecting wipes, extra face masks, alcohol-based sanitizers, and a thermometer. It’s also a good idea to carry prescription medications to treat COVID-19.
It’s essential to keep a positive attitude when traveling. Your immune system is more robust when you’re not stressed. A smile and kind words will go a long way. Also, try to give others plenty of grace.
Many countries are lifting their vaccination mandates for travelers. These include Mexico, Poland, Cyprus, and Seychelles.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has gone disastrously wrong. In addition to the economic and political consequences, the war has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced millions. It has also created Europe’s largest refugee crisis since World War II.
After the invasion, EU leaders, NATO, and the US declared that Russia must stop its military actions or face heavy sanctions. They have also vowed to provide humanitarian aid to refugees.
Russian commanders have resorted to tactics used in previous Syria and Chechnya wars. Ukrainian forces have fought back with ferocity. However, it is unlikely that the Kremlin will reverse its gains.
The invasion of Ukraine is the most severe international crisis since World War II. The European Union has imposed the toughest sanctions on Russia, including many entities.
Several diplomatic talks have been held in hopes of halting the violence, but nothing has been accomplished so far. Even a resolution to the attempted annexation of four regions in Ukraine failed.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has been widely reviled for his military campaign. He is blamed for ignoring Ukrainians’ national character and failing to recognize their commitment to independence and democracy.
