Did you know that over 40% of the jobs lost due to the coronavirus have been lost in the travel industry? According to the U.S. Travel Association, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused over $273 billion in cumulative losses for the U.S. travel economy. But, the news isn’t all bad for those who are planning to take a road trip or fly during the pandemic.
Hotel and airline prices are plummeting in the drive to boost the travel industry. This can mean big savings for those who are looking for that vacation or road trip.
For example… We searched a round trip flight on the ultra low cost carrier Spirit Airlines for travel dates of July 27 – Aug. 3. The round trip cost was $84.78. The same dates on the more traditional American Airlines came in at a respectable $383. (Note: This was for each airline’s lowest ticket price and without upgrades.)
According to Forbes, some hotels have lost as much as 80% of their business. To entice travelers, hotels are joining the bandwagon by offering some great deals. A quick search on Priceline revealed rooms for as low as $33 per night on a standard booking. Choose their promotion and the booking site is showing rooms as low as $27.
Similar deals exist in other parts of the company. I booked a room at a $60 discount the Mayor’s Mansion in Chattanooga, Tennessee. This was for mid-week travel. A mid-week room at a Comfort Suites in Lexington, Kentucky came in at just over $71.00 at the AAA rate!
Local travel can be a great option for those who don’t want to fly. State and national parks are reopening. Generally, trails are the first areas of the parks to open and then the visitor centers. You’ll want to check with the parks’ websites for those details when you’re planning the trip.
Before any travel, it’s critical to check the coronavirus the CDC guidelines and rules for each state before you book a flight or hotel. Be prepared to maintain social distancing, wear a mask, wash your hands frequently and bring hand sanitizer. Monitor your destinations and airlines for any changes throughout the trip.
The decision on whether to travel or have a staycation at home is yours alone. Whatever you decided to do be sure to have fun, relax and enjoy the moment.
Bodacious Broads Travel Blog 