Is travelling in the middle of the pandemic a good idea? Should you do it, and if yes, where to go to vacation during quarantine? Travelling without reason is not a good idea but if you have been at home for a long time and now desperately need a break, with some preparation and planning you can take a vacation. It obviously won't be the same as travelling before COVID-19 struck us, but it can be a whole lot of fun if you do it right! So, what are the things that you need to consider before planning a trip? Where should you go on your trip? And before you leave, what are the last minute tasks you need to do?
Is It Safe to Travel?
One of the most important questions people thinking of taking a vacation ask is whether or not it's safe to travel? It is safe if you follow the rules of the region you're visiting. If you're traveling for the sake of taking a break, it is advised that you only take one person along or even better: just go alone!
Where to Go
As per BBC, there's a list of countries that are on the green list! This means that you don't need to quarantine after your vacation. They are accepting tourists from all over the world, but there are a few prerequisites, of course, like some countries advise that you quarantine for at least ten days after returning from them. These countries are on the amber list, which is different from the green list.
Other than that, every country has its own set of requirements that you need to fulfill before you can visit. For example, almost all countries need you to get COVID tested before you arrive, and some even test you themselves on your arrival. Similarly, some other countries are only accepting tourists from certain countries, so make sure that you are not from one of the restricted countries.
Here is a list of places that you can go to for a vacation during quarantine:
A Checklist
Once you have decided on where to go, the next big thing is to make a checklist. What should be on that checklist depends on you, as people have very different ways of preparing for a trip, but here is a list of things that should be on everyone's checklist.
1. Book your flight
First things first, book your flight as soon as possible so you can get good deals and early-bird discounts!
2. Make hotel accommodations
You'll want to make sure you have a nice place to stay during your fun vacation. Also make sure it is close in distance to activities or places your want to visit during your stay.
3. Travel insurance
Travel insurance is one of the most important things you should arrange before leaving your home country. In case of any emergencies that would cause you to cancel your trip, you'll want to make sure you are covered.
4. Check the weather forecast
Check what the weather will be like wherever you're headed. If it's going to be rainy, don't forget to pack your umbrella and raincoat. If it's going to be hot or cold, pack accordingly to the weather. It is always a good idea to check the forecast, so you're not surprised by inclement weather.
5. Pack your bags!
Pack the essentials like clothing and makeup. If you are looking to paint your nails before you travel, check out 786 Cosmetics! They have a wide range of halal nail polishes that you can wear during long journeys because you can pray without having to remove them. Other than that, be sure to include the necessary toiletries you may need in your bags.
6. Talk to a guide or get a map
This is a crucial step so you have someone to show you around and so you don't get lost when you go out for a stroll.
7. Stay on schedule but make the most of it
Plan your trip wisely. When visiting a new country, you should at least visit all the tourist sites before you come back. Visit the renowned places and eat at the popular food joints to make your trip memorable.
8. Turn off the lights
Before you leave, turn off the lights and all other electrical appliances. Make arrangements for your pets if you have any and lock away everything you need to keep safe and will not want to lose.
9. Relax!
Remember what you're there for. It is a break from your stressful routine, so don't forget to relax and have fun.
Vacation and Return
After you have returned from your vacation, now is the time to be the most careful. Quarantine for a few days, so just in case you're an asymptomatic carrier of the coronavirus, you do not infect the people around you. Take a few days off and stay at home. Utilize this time to rest from your long travel, or you can unpack your things at this time. Dust your couches and vacuum your carpets. Air your house out and sunbathe in your backyard! Do anything to distract yourself or keep yourself busy. Relax so you can keep yourself from going out and interacting with people for some time after your vacation.
It is a duty on you to keep yourself and others safe. After a vacation for yourself, it only makes sense that you should also quarantine from the people around you, so you don't infect them if you have somehow contracted the virus.
Don't forget to check out our Instagram page for our favorite halal nail polish shades.
- Saba Khalil