Pandemic. When I say the word, a hundred things may run through your mind – virus, masks, sanitizer, social distancing, 6 feet away, work from home, cooking, cleaning. Bet travel may not make it to the list. Or does it?
We are all stuck at home. Barely stepping out yet planning to travel places once all of this gets over.
Interestingly, as the cases decrease, people have and will gradually start travelling by road or air, and stay at hotels—completely understanding that there is a possibility of their co-passenger or one of the hotel staff having COVID-19. Frightening?! Barely.
The wants are kicking in and we have chosen fun over fear—in defense, we are treading carefully, by sanitizing our hands, wearing masks, keeping distances, and probably sleeping on a bedsheet that was in the same laundry bag like that of an infected person that wasn’t washed properly.
To be human is to taste freedom, venture out and breathe free. And we do not care if it’s cold or COVID, we rush to the Himalayas in the freezing December or go and get a whiff of the sea breeze in early January as is the ritual.
If you are one of those who rush to the Himalayas: maybe visit the holy Gangotri,
try the Southern gem, Ooty, or head to the ancient city of Hampi
Get a whiff of the sea breeze at Gokarna, because Goa is overrated
or have the authentic wheat puttu next to the lazy beach of Varkala, Kerela
So what precautions to take when we travel?
The ones we already know plus a ‘hedge of protection’ or a spoon of dahi shakkar (yogurt with sugar) for good luck before leaving.
On a serious note,
– Check the place you plan to visit – the no of cases in the past months, travel policies,
pre-requisites like a COVID negative certificate
– Check for reviews at your place of stay
– Boost your immunity before you step out
– Take foods rich in Vitamin C
– Consume an immunity booster drink frequently
– Exercise regularly and strictly practice hygiene
– Isolate yourself for a good 15 days once you are back, and keep your friends
and family safe
Not like me. I bought a woolen cap from a person who sneezed twice and wiped his face with his bare hand.
Stay warm.
Travel safe.
Between Places and Time 