Last month we talked about traveling safely in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now we’re going to talk about staying safe once you reach your final destination.
Hotel rooms and rental homes, according to experts, pose a similar risk of transmission, however they are both safer than staying with family or friends. It’s easier to arrange socially distant meet ups with others than to stay safe while visiting at their home.
Before you book a hotel room anywhere, it’s important to check what amenities are available. If you’re a fan of the pool or plan to spend time at the gym, research whether or not these facilities are open for guests to use. Never assume the space you’re in is clean either. When you arrive, wipe down all hard, nonporous surfaces. If the space is large, prioritize high touch areas such as the TV remote, night stands, door handles, and light switches. Don’t be afraid to ask for clean sheets to make your own bed. Avoid any open bars and don’t share communal food, such as free cookies at the reception desk. If you are in a rental home, ask the host how much time has come between you and the previous renter.
If you are staying with a loved one, there are a few things you can do to make your trip safer. Ask your host about their behavior in the weeks leading up to your visit. If they were gathering in large groups or doing other high-risk activities, consider staying somewhere else. If you cannot quarantine and stay away from your hosts, wear a mask indoors, minimize what you touch, and stay in a separate part of the house when possible.
If you find yourself dining out, call ahead to make sure the restaurant has space to seat you. Only dine with people you’ve been quarantining with and try to eat outdoors if possible. When you arrive at your table, wipe it down, as well as the menus if necessary. Our line of powerful disinfectants can be found here! Many places are providing paper menus, giving each guest a brand-new copy when they arrive.
General rules still apply when traveling. Continue to practice social distancing and mask wearing. If you plan on participating in any activities outside of your hotel, try to stay outdoors. Avoid touching your face in public, especially in crowded areas. Continue to wash your hands often, most importantly, after touching any shared surfaces. Seek out contactless payments when you can. As always, don’t leave home if you’re sick, have a fever, or have any symptoms of COVID-19.
The trip may be more tedious, but sometimes it’s worth it just for the peace of mind a getaway can bring.
