Next week I am going to Alabama to see my mother. I haven't seen her in a while and I worry sometimes.
With all the commotion of this year, it would do me some good to have a change of scenery. Both my boyfriend and dog will be joining me, so I guess that makes it a family vacation? Anyway, the main goal this week is to stay focused and plan ahead.
Going to Alabama might be a little risky this year. The number of COVID-19 cases is rising fast which means more restrictions. The governor of Alabama, Kay Ivey, has issued a Safer At Home order. So visiting friends will be very difficult.
I realize that's a lot to deal with just to visit. But I'm very close to my family and being away from my mom for so long makes me homesick.
For those who are planning to drive or fly to see loved ones for the holidays, here are some travel tips you help you stay safe away from home.
2020 Travel Tips For The Holidays:
1. Check your destination's COVID-19 info. There are some places in the U.S. that a lower number of cases than others. It's important, that no matter where you go, to check the city's case numbers.
Every city in every state has a local government website. It tells you the status of COVID-19 in their city and what they are doing to help lower the numbers.
For example, some cities are allowing indoor and outdoor dining with masks. Other cities prefer to only do take out orders to reduce exposure. While other cities will let in a certain number of people at a time to adhere to the "6-feet-apart" ordinance.
Research and plan your trip accordingly.
2. Remember to pack your Coronavirus survival kit. Some stores are slow to restock on masks and cleaning products. Make sure to pack extra masks, disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizers, and gloves just in case you have to make a stop in a high-risk area. Also, don't stay in the area (gas station, crowded fast food joint) too long to reduce exposure.
Be sure to take a shower and change into some clean clothes the moment you get there. Being out on the road at rest stops can take a toll on your immune system.
If you are staying at a hotel, wipe down any surfaces like the bathroom sink and nightstand. I'm sure the cleaning crew is taking care of that. But it's still important to make sure you're safe.
3. Build up your immune system before, during, and after the trip. Taking vitamins to boost immunity won't cure COVID-19 but it can help reduce the severity of the virus if you catch it.
Supplements like vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, and elderberry support a strong immune system and maybe fight the virus from getting into the lungs.
Make sure to take your vitamins before, during, and after your trip.
Of course, if you are on any prescription medication, talk to your doctor about adding vitamins to your regimen.
4. Make a plan when you get into town. Some places have stay-at-home orders in place. If you plan on visiting family and friends, plan to bring a mask or limit the amount of time you spend there.
Call your friend or family member before the trip. This will be a good time to plan something outside, like a bonfire or something with a small group. This is good if you plan on hanging out longer than an hour.
If you want to go shopping and take in the local culture, look for places that have
5. Delay travel if you are feeling ill. If you start to feel symptoms, try to choose a different day to go. Especially, if you are visiting someone who is high risk.
For some people, COVID-19 feels like the flu. But for others, it could mean life or death. So please try to be considerate of other people's health.
Many people will not be traveling because of cost. Others can't risk getting sick and don't want to get loved one sick. If you can't travel, try a Zoom call or Google Hangouts. Sending a card or video message are also ways of staying close to family.
I plan on traveling early before Christmas since traffic won't be as hectic. We'll visit a close friend of mine and keep our visits to a minimum. Actual Christmas will be spent at home.
For those who are flying, check out the tips here by kayak.com. Whether you are planning to drive, fly, or taking a cruise, it's important to follow the guidelines to ensure a safe and relaxing trip.
Be sure to follow me here on Newsbreak when I begin my Christmas In Covid series. It will be articles of things to do at home, listacles of the best gifts of 2020, and more.
Happy holidays everyone. Be safe.
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