What could travel look like in 2021/22? The roll-out of the COVID-19 vaccines brings renewed optimism and it’s the question we’re all asking. This year is much the same as 2020 so far although there’s certainly fresh hope for future travel. Since restrictions were introduced, we’ve relished exploring places close to home but like everyone else, we miss travelling and exploring new destinations. With the situation changing so rapidly, it’s impossible for anyone to predict what travel will look like even in 2021 but we can ponder. Staycation, road trip or short-haul flight to a favoured destination? Or what about an activity holiday, villa trip or planning that bucket list destination?
Holidays are currently not permitted in this country with travel only allowed if it’s for work that cannot be done from home, education or medical reasons. Despite the uncertainty and rise in COVID-19 cases, some travel companies are already reporting a surge in bookings. So what are the current trends and what could travel look like in 2021/2022?
Staycations
Having lived in London for the best part of 20 years before re-locating to Surrey in 2010, we totally get the appeal of being in the countryside. There’s honestly nothing better than taking time out to re-charge the batteries and spending time surrounded nature. It’s an excellent way to gain some perspective and fresh country air makes certainly has the feel good factor. Much as we’d relish being in the mountains again, there are plenty of incredible places to visit in the UK from Cornwall, Devon and Dorset to the Lake District, Wales and the Scottish Highlands.
Road trips
We’re massive fans of family road trips having driven from the UK to the likes of the Swiss Alps, Asturias and Cantabria to name a few in the past. Should restrictions allow, it’s easy to take the Eurotunnel to Calais and, depending on how much time is available, drive to the likes of France, Germany, Switzerland, Austria or even Italy. Another option we also love is to take a Brittany Ferries cruise ferry to destinations such France or Spain and drive to Green Spain. Self-catering accommodation, such as glamping, camping or hiring a campervan, is a great way to keep the costs down. We’re yet to set off on an adventure with a campervan but never say never! On our list is more of Europe of course and we’re itching to do a road trip in Scotland – if we can decide where!
Short-haul flights
It seems forever ago since we just browsed a travel site and booked an impromptu flight somewhere. We used to do it regularly before POD came along and while we plan more these days, the option is always there. Little did we know a global pandemic would arrive in 2020. We’ve taken many a city break in the past, great for kids as well as adults, including in France, Spain, Italy, Germany or the Czech Republic. Funny how we’re craving visits back to all our favourite places as well as yearning to explore other destinations.
Package holidays
Package holidays are a great alternative to independent travel as they typically have flights, accommodation and food (half or full board) included within the price. It means there are less surprises and makes budgeting that much easier. We’ve taken several of these trips in the past albeit activity-based holidays with the likes of Mark Warner and Neilson. Both are brilliant as there are a range of destinations to choose from with heaps of water and land-based activities on offer from waterskiing, sailing and stand-up paddleboarding to tennis, cycling and fitness classes. There are also excellent kids activity clubs that provide children with superb experiences while being looked after by qualified British nannies. We tend to have a split between activities and spending time together as that’s what holidays are all about.
Villa holidays
Villas are an excellent self-catering option whether travelling as a family (including multi-generational) or a group. We’ve stayed in villas in Lanzarote, Tuscany and Puglia to name just a few, using each as a base from which to explore. There is the option to stay at the villa and relax by the pool of course. Villa destinations vary enormously and there are plenty of options to suit when it comes to style and budget. We tend to gravitate towards authentic properties situated off the beaten track and always have our own car or hire one. We’ve stayed in some incredible places over the years including this trullo and rustic properties in Cantabria and Asturias.
Travelling is not currently permitted in the UK or Internationally unless it’s for work that cannot be done from home, for education purposes or for medical reasons. So while we’re considering what travel might look like in the coming months and into next year, it’s fairly uncertain at this time and dependent on the vaccine roll-out. The Government recently announced new guidance for travellers returning to the UK. We’ll be staying home until it’s safe to travel again but we do hope at some point this year, we’ll be able to get away somewhere.
