It is now officially 5 weeks since our world turned upside down. I am sure you are getting stir-crazy just like we are. We have been diligent to self-isolate in our home in Apex, North Carolina. My children have not left the home in over a month other to take a family walk around the block. I have left only once a week to grocery shop (with my mask on of course). Last night we got take-out dinner for the first time since this all started! Our staff is working remotely from their own homes. Zoom calls are our new normal. You do not know how much I miss having our team together in the office.
For those who don’t know, my husband works for Southwest Airlines, and has been going to work at the airport each day. Flights are practically empty, but still flying, though fewer flights. Each day I ask him how many people were on the flights. I truly get excited when he says there were more than 20 on any particular flight. For me and the travel industry, it is a sign of hope.
One thing I will say, is that this week we have been seeing glimmers of the light at the end of the tunnel. Glimmers of Hope. Signs of people Finding Forward.
What does that mean?
We all know that the virus can be very dangerous. We do not dismiss or want to make light of it. Right now we are all doing our part to make that “curve” not only flatter, but to make it curve down. But, it is also important for your mental health to have something to look forward to. To have hope for life to get back to normal. Whatever normal may look like. For some, it means planning something fun to look forward to.
This week we have been approached by our clients to plan vacations for later this year and into next Spring. Clients asking for Greece, Alaska, Disney World, Iceland, Mexico, and Bora Bora! My own daughter even asked when can we go back to Italy (2021 Italy planning was put into motion immediately!đ). People are itching to get out. Planning an exciting vacation for when it is safe to travel gives you something to look forward to. With low commitment deposits and very forgiving rebooking policies now, it is the perfect time to plan for your future travels. Something to look forward to. The light at the end of the tunnel.
“Where” will you Find Forward?
US Travel Will Surge Once Our Quarantine Ends
I can say with certainty that once we begin to travel again, most will want to stay somewhat local. As mentioned in past issues, road trips will surge and domestic flights will soar. Here are a few of my favorite destinations to get the ideas flowing and get you excited to plan a domestic vacation later this year.
Situated in the heart of Wyomingâs famed Platte River Valley, between the Sierra Madre Mountain range & stunning Medicine Bow National Forest, Brush Creek Ranch is an all-inclusive luxury ranch resort like no other, exclusively designed for discerning travelers, ambitious adventurers, corporate group retreats, family luxury dude ranch vacations.
*Upgrades and Resort Credit are a VIP Travel Designs Perk
When wine country beckons, Carneros Resort and Spa is the answer. This uniquely styled retreat has 94 individual guest cottages and suites and six luxurious homes, three full-service restaurants, two swimming pools and a top-rated spa. The cottages themselves are heaven-sent, with cozy fireplaces, spacious patios with teak furnishings, and private outdoor spaces. Spend an afternoon at the inspired spa; treatments are based on local flavors, from rosemary and olive to quince and honey. Then cap off a memorable day with a dinner of fresh local ingredients at FARM.
*Breakfast Daily and Spa Credits are a VIP Travel Designs Perk
At Sunset Key Cottages, enjoy an escape on this serene 27-acre island located only 500 yards from the vibrant energy of Key West. There is a complimentary seven-minute ferry service that operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. However, you’ll feel drawn to remain in this welcoming oasis, with its white-sand beach, spa, Latitudes restaurant, pool and fitness center.
*Daily Breakfast and Resort Credit are a VIP Travel Designs Perk
With Savannah and Hilton Head just minutes away, you might be drawn to explore. But it will be hard to find a reason to leave Montage Palmetto Bluff, a gracious and serene Lowcountry escape set along the beautiful May River with 200 guest accommodations, eight dining experiences and three pool venues. This is a sporting paradise with golf, tennis, boating, biking, kayaking, fishing, sporting clays, equestrian activities, full spa and more.
*Sparkling Wine, Breakfast and Spa Credit are a VIP Travel Designs Perk
