2020 was the mess that is still being cleaned up. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected every single person on this earth’s life, whether they chose to admit it or not. Mentally, physically, and emotionally, everyone’s experience has been different, and how people handle it overall differs. I’m sure one thing everyone can agree on, is hoping the end is near.
During this winter break, I went on two vacations, both were COVID safe, and I would love to share my experience!
In December 2020, I flew United from Albany- Ft. Lauderdale, with a connection flight in Washington DC. My experience was great! Upon arriving at the Albany airport I went through security like normal. Everyone was masked up and socially distanced. Immediately when boarding the plane I was overwhelmed with the smell of cleaning supplies. I felt like I wanted to gag, but was also comforted at the same time; I knew the plane was clean. Before heading to my seat, a flight attendant handed me a packaged cleaning wipe to wipe down the seat at my own convenience. I was very impressed with this!
I was traveling alone and was given a seat all to myself! During the snacks in flight, we were given bottles of water vs. cups and a pre-packaged bag of United goodies. I never felt uncomfortable once! When arriving at the Fort Lauderdale airport, it was to my surprise to see all travelers wearing masks. From what you see on the news right now, Florida seems like a free for all and that’s simply not the case. Everyone was masked up and doing what they were supposed to be doing just like in the Albany airport. When I got into my uber upon arrival the same thing, all masked up. The trip to Fort Lauderdale was awesome and exactly what I needed, some fun, COVID safe, but fun!
In early January 2021, I went on another trip to Florida, this time to Treasure Island. I went on this trip with my dad, brother, and boyfriend. We flew direct from Albany to Tampa where we rented a car and drove 40 mins to Treasure Island. On this trip, I flew Southwest. Upon entering the plane this time, I did not smell the cleaning supplies like on the United flight. However, you could still tell it was clean! This time I sat with my boyfriend and it was just the two of us in a row of three while my dad and brother sat across from us. Southwest did the same thing as United with the prepackaged snacks, and the bottled water. Upon arriving back into NYS there is a travel advisory form to be filled out by all passengers. This can be done on your phone or on paper at the airport. There are army workers stationed at the airport to make sure the forms are filled out by everyone.
All in all, I felt very safe during my travels. I understand everyone has different takes on traveling during these crazy times, but my stance is to have fun safely! As long as you follow the rules put into place, you can have a fun, safe, COVID-free vacation!