The travel and tourism industry is not insulated from man-made and natural disasters and crisis which confront humanity suddenly or gradually. Moments of crisis can be in form of a health pandemic like Covid-19, a security threat in form of protests or demonstrations, political tensions resulting in travel bans, etc. Any moment of crisis demands various business operational adjustments and implementing measures designed to safeguard business interests and the welfare of travellers. For travellers, travelling during a crisis or being caught up in a crisis away from the comfort and security of your home and community can be daunting. How best can you travel during a crisis?
Travelling tips you need to know during a crisis:
Book locally affiliated hotels and airlines
You must try as much as possible to book with hotels and airlines which have a business footprint or even headquartered in your country of residence if you are travelling out of the country. Not only will you be sure about their services and standards but it helps a great deal in a moment of crisis when you need to cancel or readjust bookings. Locally affiliated hotels and airlines also grant you an opportunity to make physical follow-ups in case of administrative delays or misunderstandings way after you have left your destination.
Essentials
It’s easy to think you will buy essential products upon arrival. Avoid this mistake because moments of crisis are punctuated by disruptions in the supply of goods and services which include essential items. In the current Covid-19 environment, make sure you have masks, bottled water, hand sanitiser, toilet paper and disinfecting wipes handy.
Secure your medical history
You must make every effort to secure some paperwork with regards to your medical history and possible vaccinations you have done. Not only does it make it easier to be assisted when you need medical attention but this will also assist you to move with ease in places where they have restrictions for certain health conditions.
Travel history of your destination
There is nothing as bad as getting caught up in an unfortunate situation simply because you never checked the do’s and don’ts and recent events in your destination area. Take time to check how many people your destination attracts, crime levels and security threats, cultural norms, security systems in place and generally how to stay safe during your trip. Try by any means to avoid crowds, demonstrations or large gatherings.
Precautions
Wherever your place of accommodation is, take note of emergency procedures and contacts. You must also keep close the contacts of your airline or tour operators should need arise in moments of disruption, cancellation or overbooking. Keep a close eye on local news and advise of the local authorities because they often have first hand information around the area. Lastly and vitally important are friends and family, keep them in the loop as your trip unfolds so that they know you are safe and can provide much needed support if a crisis happens.
The tips provided above will assist you to travel safely during a crisis.
