09/01/2021
Gone Traveling:
Peeking back in again, we have been asked where did we go lately? What no posts?
We didn’t go anywhere except traveling (almost) like its 2019.
Many clients and friends have asked us is it really safe to travel? Some have preferred to cancel their trips out of fear, or out of an abundance of caution, or out of something else. We can’t judge if traveling is right for you or not. We can only give you some honest feedback and let everyone know, not only is traveling reasonably safe, but there also isn’t a good reason we can see to keep putting off your travel plans.
So where did we go? First of all, we went to Italy. It took a little extra paperwork but after going out of my way for about 20 minutes to get my paperwork done, I was ready to go. Upon arrival I found an Italy that had fewer tourists than normal allowing us to see, do, and enjoy this amazing country even more than usual, which is very hard to do! Rome, Naples, Pesaro, and various points in between were visited. The vast majority of museums and monuments are open and were amazing as always.
However, know before you go, that now vaccinations are now mandatory, and you must show proof of a negative covid test within 72 hours before traveling. We are glad to help anyone who needs get through the hurdles which are easy (no really, they are easy!). You should also be ready to wear masks in many indoor locations. If you don’t mind going a tad out of your way, and abiding by local rules, Italy is open, very safe (safer than many parts of the USA) and utterly delightful. For those who love to travel there are no problems. However, realistically, if you are not vaccinated or don’t want to wear a mask ever, then Italy is probably not for you for a while.
Just for the record, we are going back to Italy in October. Its open, safe, and come on, its Italy!
Next after Italy we went to Brazil. Yes, the country with all of the bad Covid press. We don’t take big risks so made sure that things were on the right track before going. The country is also open to Americans and after presenting a negative covid test within 72 hours of the flight, we were heading South, way South…
What did we find? A country that has passed the US in vaccinations and who is now taking the pandemic very seriously. Masks were required in many indoor facilities and alcohol for cleaning the hands was literally everywhere. Knowing the Covid case load is low in many parts of the country, we were able to see and enjoy Sao Paulo and then the state of Para which is in the mouth of the Amazon. The food, the nature, the animals, birds, and friendly people made this trip worthwhile and the care the country is taking in beating back the virus made us feel very safe and even a little envious.
Should you go? Of course, but then again, this author is biased and a confirmed traveler. However, we never take risky trips and don’t advice anyone else to do so either. The fact is that many countries have the pandemic under control with caseloads continuing to fall. Brazil is a case in point.
Finally, after almost a month of traveling and travels ahead real soon, we know that the world is waiting for you. Our strong recommendation is that you get fully vaccinated, wear masks in crowded areas, and obey local rules. If you can do this, travel is not only possible, its even better than it was before.
If you want to know how to travel safely and make the experience easy, let us know and we will be glad to help you pack your bags. See you on the road!
