I’m a glass half full kind of person. I truly believe that in a few months the coronavirus chaos will be behind us and something else will have taken its place.

My intention is not to make light of this epidemic, but I will not allow myself to be at the mercy of the bloodthirsty media either. We can live in fear or we can travel through it. Which will you choose? And yes, it is a choice.

I like to say, “Fear of death is a waste of time. It will take me when and where it chooses. Until then, it will have to chase me as I intend to run very fast.”

Media Mayhem

Media hype should be taken with a grain of salt. It is important to be informed, but don’t fall prey to the news media’s bloodlust for ratings.

Last year’s coverage of Australia’s fires showed a continent in flames. In actual fact, only 3% of the entire continent experienced fires and most regions were where tourists do not visit. This resulted in discouraging tourism and devastating small, local businesses.

Positive Due Diligence

Aside from the obvious measures of physical safety, below are four ideas to keep your journeys of discovery front and centre and on track!

Choose Unaffected Destinations

Rearrange your adventures and choose the one that makes you feel the most comfortable for 2020/21. Why not explore closer to home?

If you live in the US or Canada, hike the Zion and Bryce Canyons, Utah, or British Columbia’s Purcell Mountains. Head south to warm climates such as Fiji, Australia, Anguilla or St Lucia. All great choices. Safe destinations are everywhere!

Go Small Scale

Consider staying away from super-sized ships, resorts catering to the multitudes, and big bus tours. Take a journey to a destination that is not trending. Uncrowded and off-season can be a good thing.

Don’t Shirk from Travel

Go ahead and book your future travel! Ask your Travel Advisor to book you on a trip where your deposit is refundable and to monitor those cancellation deadlines. Travel Advisors are professionals who receive daily updates on situations worldwide, so it’s wise to have one.

Rely on Good Travel Insurance

Buy cancel for any reason insurance (CFAR). If you think travel protection is expensive, just wait until you lose the cost of your entire holiday.

A Bit of Good News for You

My work is with boutique suppliers, i.e., small ships, yachts, country inns, boutique resorts, and tour operators. To date, none of my preferred suppliers have experienced coronavirus related issues and have taken necessary precautions to keep it that way. Many have even relaxed their cancellation policies and final payment due dates for guests.

That’s it! Keep on traveling!

Have you traveled with boutique outfitters and suppliers? Are you familiar with the services of professional Travel Advisors? Do you travel off season or to unlikely destinations? Let’s have a conversation!