5 Ways the Luxury Travel Industry is Responding to the Coronavirus Pandemic
Luxury travel is often associated with those long voyages spanning weeks and months, often jet setting to some faraway destinations across the globe either with your family, friends, or a significant other. Even if you’re traveling solo, luxury travel is often laden with up-scale experiences like fine dining, cultural events, and exclusive accommodation. Alas, now that the novel COVID-19 pandemic has forced us into lockdown, or to respect social distancing rules at the very least, traveling in such a way has become somewhat of a distant memory.
Well, not for long, because countries around the world are slowly lifting these travel bans, and you are finally able to breathe positivity into your life through travel once more. Now is the time to start planning a memorable journey for 2020, however, you need to know how the pandemic has changed the rules of local and international travel. Let’s take a look at how the luxury travel industry is responding to the coronavirus pandemic.
Prioritizing local destinations and delights
True international travel is going to be the stuff of dreams for many globetrotters in the foreseeable future, even though certain countries are slowly starting to welcome tourists and travelers into their midst. Not only is international travel dangerous and elevates the risk of spreading the virus, but it’s also impractical in these uncertain times. After all, the country you’re planning to visit can reinstate the ban at any moment.
This is why local travel is taking precedence in 2020, as it allows you to embark on an exciting escapade without putting you in harm’s way. Instead of visiting natural wonders around the world, this year you can go glamping with your family or significant other at a nearby lake, or visit a neighboring national park for an extended trip.
Small and secluded accommodation is on the rise
While we are on the subject of local travel, it’s interesting to note how luxury travel has transitioned from VIP accommodation and up-scale hotels to those breathtaking little cottages situated in remote landscapes and secluded oases in nature. Travelers are well-aware that staying at a hotel or a multi-apartment complex is not a good idea, so they are increasingly booking those recluse stays that are shielded from the pandemic yet offer a unique travel experience.
While this is not the same as traveling the world, it’s still an amazing way to experience the natural wonders of your own country and organize a truly luxurious getaway for you and your loved ones.
Off-shore travel is becoming safer and more appealing
There aren’t many places where you can shield yourself from the pandemic, at least not without risk, which is why staying indoors is the best choice. However, one of the safest places to be besides your home is the open sea. Venturing off-shore is also the best way to experience luxury travel in complete peace and privacy, which is why many travelers are choosing to charter a yacht for their grand escapade.
Chartering a yacht is a great way to enjoy a short trip, but now that brokers are offering luxurious motor yachts for sale at better prices than before, choosing to buy a yacht is becoming the more sensible option for travelers who want to have the freedom to explore. Commanding your own yacht allows you to find those secluded natural havens on the neighboring islands and archipelagos, and you can plan your route to avoid the crowds while enjoying a voyage of a lifetime.
Cleanliness and personal hygiene are paramount
Unsurprisingly, the luxury travel industry is putting more emphasis on cleanliness and general hygiene than ever before. As a traveler, you need to adhere to the guidelines issued by your travel agency and the authorities, and you should have your go-to hygiene essentials with you at all times. On the other hand, it’s important to note that business owners in the hospitality industry have implemented more stringent hygiene measures in order to ensure the safety of their guests.
Luxury travelers are choosing alternative destinations
While visiting those secluded natural gems is the best way to shield yourself from the pandemic and still have an unforgettable time, there is only so much greenery you can enjoy before wanting to return to civilization. Now, visiting Paris, Milan, or Prague might be out of the question, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t book a stay at a quaint little town on the French Riviera, or visit those breathtaking inland Italian gems the likes of Sienna, Taranto, or the breathtaking city of Campobasso.
Wrapping up
The COVID-19 pandemic has definitely shattered many a travel plan this year, but that doesn’t mean that all hope is lost. Now that you know how the pandemic has affected luxury travel, you can organize a safe and unforgettable escapade for you and your loved ones.
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