One of my big disappointments during the “Corona Era” has been the restrictions on travel. I’ve managed to get away on a few selective driving trips but certainly not anywhere close to the dream destinations I had in mind for 2020. This has been a tough year for my incurable wanderlust condition.
When I was offered a chance to attend a retreat in the Blue Ridge Mountains with hiking and meditation on the Appalachian Trail, I didn’t hesitate to make my reservation. The fresh air appeal propelled me even more. Under pre-corona circumstances, I would have flown to Asheville and driven into the remote mountain location. Due to the circumstances, my friend and I planned on driving the 12 hours to get there. But it seems the Universe had other plans for us. The rental was canceled at the last minute and provided a refund that more than covered our flights.
This was our first flight after COVID. I couldn’t help thinking this was some kind of milestone — like I had survived something big — of global proportions actually.
To my great surprise, the flight was totally full. Zero social distancing there. This was a contrast to how the airport looked — a complete ghost town. Depressing by my standards. Where I once referred to the TSA as Thousands Standing Around, it was now more like Tens Standing Around.
Walking through the airport with everyone wearing a mask — not being able to see anyone’s true expression was another reminder that we are all going through something big. Wearing a mask is impersonal, impossible to breathe well, but nevertheless important. We are standing at the gate of a new beginning.
Masks should have always and probably always will be required on airplanes. The concept of more than 100 people traveling thousands of feet in the air inside a cylinder has to be a health risk. Pandemic or not.
A Swiss-based information technology provider states that in 10 years your face could be your airplane ticket. Biometric software installed in terminal video cameras will recognize and match your features to your flight while assessing your security and health risks. This will allow most travelers to stroll unimpeded from check-in to gate.
Germophobic fliers may have the option to pay extra for “Hygiene Class,” a premium cabin that comes with a higher standard of cleanliness. These higher-priced seats will come with more frequent sanitization and scented sprays.
The UV coating used on American Way magazines is treated with Biomaster, a process that prevents the growth of unwanted organisms and demonstrates a 99.99% reduction in microbes in independent lab testing. It’s just one of the steps American Airlines is taking to ensure your health and safety while flying with them.
The impact of the Coronavirus crisis will extend well beyond the concerns for humanity’s physical health. The aftermath is already having and will continue to have severe economic implications. This may leave many travelers strapped for cash and unable to afford the international adventures of pre-pandemic times.
Nevertheless, people will still want to travel — myself included. While personal budgets may tighten, the desire to get out and explore will only ramp up, especially after thrill-seekers and adventure junkies like me have been released from lockdown.
I would expect more people to tour around their home countries, supporting local economies, and exploring their own cities and states.
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