More than a year after the start of the pandemic and the country is working to get back to normal. The number of cases continue to fall throughout the U.S. and as a result, states are loosening their restrictions. You can travel to most states without having to quarantine or present a negative COVID-19 test. This is welcome news for many people looking to enjoy their summer vacation outside. But on the other hand, there are also a number of people hesitant about going back to their lives before the pandemic struck. In fact, many Americans are still hesitant about no longer wearing masks. Reuters has revealed that a lot of people are skeptical because they know others who have not been vaccinated yet.
If you want to enjoy your summer vacation but you’re still worried about catching the virus, here are the factors that you should prioritize to ensure you stay safe and healthy.
Transportation
The safest mode of transportation you can ever take this summer is a private one. Trains and buses do have their own measures to limit the rate of transmission. They clean the premises and have their own filters. But the problem is that this isn’t without its risks. The New York Times have published a graphic to explain what happens when someone sneezes in the subway. It reveals how the viral particles can circulate multiple times within the same car. There’s also the problem that you don’t know where the other people in the vehicles have come from. They may not have been fully vaccinated or have come from an area with a high number of cases. These are the reasons why it’s best to travel using your own vehicle.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends road trips with limited stops. One of the best ways to take a safe trip is with a fully-equipped bus. There are great models of motor coaches on the market, which you can customize according to your needs. Since they already have kitchens and bathrooms, you don’t need to make stops and be in close contact with other people. You get to enjoy the outdoors in peace and quiet.
Destination
No matter how safe you get to your vacation spot, it won’t mean much in the end if your destination is a high-risk one. Before you reserve a hotel and finalize the details, do your homework first. Check out the local government sites to find out what the city or town is doing to keep cases down. Rely on local news sources so you get a specific view on what it’s like there. If you happen to know someone who lives in the area, it would be best if you contact them. They can give you a first-hand account so you would know what to expect and what to do once you’ve arrived.
Besides the general location, your accommodation is also crucial to your safety. It may be a bit more expensive but it’s best to stay in a house you don’t have to share with other people. You can also ask the owner or manager to see how long before the home was last occupied. Epidemiologist Colin Furness says that COVID-19 lingers in surroundings for only three days. If it’s been empty for at least that long, then you’re safe.
Activities
Once you’re situated in your resort, cabin, or hotel room, the next big question is what you’re going to do. Since you’ve likely spent most of your time indoors, you’re going to want to enjoy the outdoors. This is the best move. According to the Environment Protection Agency, the coronavirus spreads through airborne particles by people in close contact. The risk is high indoors when the droplets circulate throughout a room with limited ventilation. It’s even worse if you eat at a restaurant with exterior structures. An expert from Purdue University has shown that the limited space without windows can cause the particles to be concentrated in the area.
Besides the location, the actual activities also matter. If you’re looking to get active outdoors, avoid sports that require close contact like basketball and football. It’s not just the lack of distance that poses a risk. It’s also the level of intensity so players are more likely to spread droplets to others. Try sports like swimming and surfing instead. There is no scientific evidence that COVID can spread through the water.
After a lot of sacrifices and adjustments, it’s completely normal to remain careful and hesitant about returning to pre-pandemic activities. Always remember to check out the latest news regarding restrictions and updates. As long as you do your part, you can stay safe while still enjoying summer.
