Would you go out and take the risk of contracting the contagion, or would you rather prefer to stay at home and wait it out for an indefinite time?
We have lost half a year, sitting inside our house, and scared of a tiny species that has the potential, however minuscule, to kill us. Over time mental fatigue has set in. Most people are in desperate need of a break. Many countries that have opened up and some at the cost of the second wave. India is also opening up in phases of unlocking. With fewer restrictions, people are now desperate to travel. Are you among one of them? Are you unsure if you should travel or not? Would you go out and take the risk of contracting the contagion, or would you prefer to stay at home and wait it out for an indefinite time?
You are ten times more likely to die of a road accident than Covid
If you are like me, you would rather take the risk. It is hardly a risk if you are young and healthy, and not likely to infect old people or someone with pre-condition. You are ten times more likely to die of a road accident than coronavirus according to this TOI article.
Even after knowing that we were skeptical to go out. Six months at home and we lost the confidence to travel. We had to do something about it. So, we decided to start our first post lockdown travel by visiting our friends house. The long drive from Delhi to Bhatinda gave us some confidence to take one more step. That’s when we decide to take the real risk and visit Mcleod Gunj in Himachal Pradesh.
It has been long enough and it is time we learn to live with the virus, like we have been doing with many others for ages. Having said that, the world has changed. From what you pack, how you travel or what hotels you book, travelling isn’t the same anymore. But do not worry. Here is the list of 10 things you need to remember to keep yourself and others safe while still enjoying your vacation. This is what I learned from our first vacation post lockdown, and I am happy to share it with all of you.
Plan Before travel
- Before you plan you trip you must realise one simple truth: once you step out of the safety of your home, into the open, you are at risk. Be ready to accept that fact before travelling. Any person, apart from your regular family members, you come in close proximity with has the potential to infect you. Remember, most people would show no symptoms as they are asymptotic. Check the Covid-19 status of the place you want to visit and avoid places with a high caseload. Also be aware of local rules and guidelines.
- Which also means, you too are a potential threat to others. We all need to be extra responsible while travelling to make sure we do not spread the novel coronavirus (nCoV) to the places we travel to. If you are from a place where lots of people are infected and you think you are at risk, postpone the travel date. If you interact with people who are susceptible, like having old parents who stay with you, hold the travel thought for a while. If you feel sick at any point while travelling, quarantine yourself.
- What mode of transport should you choose? I prefer my own car. It is like a little piece of home I carry with myself and is much safer than any form of public transport. Start your vacation with places you can drive to. That way you reduce your exposure significantly. Before you begin your journey get your car serviced and sanitised. If you are taking public transport remember that chances of exposure increase with your proximity to the infected person and the amount of time you spend with them. So, maintain social distance and take short trips.
- Where should you stay? Look for places which are either home stays, full apartments or individual huts, preferably with kitchen. Spend extra to get the good ones that spend money on sanitisation and safety. You get what you pay for. A little bit of premium for extra safety is worth it. Remember, the good ones will get booked early. So, do your research and book in advance.
- What to pack? It goes without saying, carry enough masks, disinfectant wipes, tissues, disinfectant spray, Pee safe, gloves and sanitisers. To be on the safe side, you can pack your own towels, bed sheet and blankets if there is enough space to carry them. Always carry a first aid kit with your regular medicines, antihistamines, paracetamols, multivitamins and immunity boosters. Also carry a digital thermometer and may be an oximeter. Remember to carry your own dustbin bags and be mindful of where you throw your thrash.
When in doubt, SANITISE.
During Travel
- While travelling on the road, plan and pin the places you want to take breaks. Public conveniences are hubs of contagion. The roadside highway dhabas are at very high risk. Carry your own food, water and lots of tea or coffee. Also, better to take pee breaks in bushes rather than public toilets. How often do you get that opportunity anyway!
- Covid spreads from person to person, so the thing you should stay away from is – persons. Avoid crowded spaces, swimming pools etc. Always wear a mask in a public place and keep a safe distance. Social distancing is not only essential for your safety but also for the locals.
- A lot of Covid transmission happens indoors. So, avoid closed spaces like museums, restaurants etc. Try open-air restaurants and home service.
- Be mindful of what you touch. While touching anything think of how many people might have touched it before you. ATM or an overused door handle is likely to be more infected than the door handle of your hotel room. Avoid touching with your hands as much as you can. Use elbows and legs. When in doubt, sanitise.
After Travel
- Once you are back, stay home and stay quarantined for 1-2 weeks as you may have brought the tiny buggers with you and you are not even aware of it. It can be tough and my daughter does not like the fact that she has to stay at home while her friends are playing in the society ground. But that is the new value that she is learning. When you love your friends you need to do that bit of sacrifice to keep your friends and their family safe.
I understand that there are a lot of things to remember and a little bit of extra work that has the potential to turn us into a maniac and spoil the vacation. But, if you can accept the new reality, remember the 10 tips, and do not panic, you are going to get used to it very quickly. As long as you plan ahead, maintain social distance, avoid indoors, and be mindful of what you touch, your vacation is going to be worth it. You deserve a break, go take it.
What do you say to the god of death?
Interesting and useful blog.
Thank you