FEEL THE SUMMER OF 22
By Jason Jourdan
It’s a numbers game. Data shapes our perceptions and informs our choices. Recent digits, like 19, have come to represent challenges while others, like 22, offer opportunities. As the Taylor Swift song says, “I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling 22,” as in the Summer of 2022! The leisure season is fast approaching, and data points affirm a healthy return to international travel. Tourism increases as more travelers are encouraged by the number of countries lessening border restrictions. One too many COVID-19 lockdowns changed the way people plan trips and has given rise to new trends in travel.
According to a recent article on Travel Trends for 2022, Barron’s finds organized solo travel, multigenerational trips, private travel, and wellness tourism are the most popular ways to adventure this Summer.
Solo travel holds numerous benefits, one being personal happiness! A trip for you ensures the itinerary caters to one’s preferences and schedule. Traveling solo holds an increased chance for spontaneity and meeting other solo tourists – the adventures are endless! The pandemic has introduced numerous safety precautions, making traveling alone more appealing. Multigenerational trips have witnessed a 57% jump from 2019 to 2022. Research indicates the most popular destinations for generations of family traveling together include Italy, Greece, Portugal, Spain, Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Egypt. Extended isolation has many families seeking the togetherness and memory-building experiences unique to international getaways.
Private travel calls for the ultimate in luxury and wellness. Tastes run from yacht excisions and exotic villas to hidden islands. This Summer, a companion’s getaway, is ideal for traveling the world in comfort and style. The pampering expands into routines of self-care, learning, and other healthful practices. A wellness trip can include a cooking class to a group meditation circle. A 10% increase in the wellness/private travel segment is projected by 2025, with an estimated $7 trillion in market share.
Air travel remains an ever-changing narrative impacting travelers of all ages. AARP details what seniors can expect during the summer travel season regarding airport safety protocols. They recommend a review of country-specific recommendations from the CDC and a reminder that everyone must take a COVID-19 test before returning to the U.S.
To reduce the risks to passengers, the TSA requests that travelers store personal items (phones, wallets, keys) in carry-on bags instead of placing them in bins. Passengers are now allowed 12-ounce containers of hand sanitizers in their carry-on, increasing the previous 3.4-ounce limit. Travelers are encouraged to remain 6 feet away from each other while moving through security lines and require observance of the CDC guidelines mandating that staff members and passengers wear masks during flights while boarding, departing, and in-air.
International cruises are another popular choice for travel in the warmer months. Many cruise lines have gone above and beyond in establishing new safety procedures; however, the CDC advises against sails unless each party member is vaccinated. Cruise Critic outlines some of the Top Cruise Destinations:
– Japan
– South Korea
– Bahamas
– Italy
– Montenegro
– Mexico
– Israel
– Cyprus
Some destinations are closed to visitors, while other countries are eager to welcome travelers! According to Kayak, 26 countries are fully open sans restrictions:
– Iceland
– Mexico
– United Kingdom
– Poland
– Mongolia
– Norway
– Ireland
– Denmark
There are 164 countries whose borders are open but maintain applicable COVID-19 restrictions. These nations include:
– Brazil
– India
– Australia
– Thailand
– Canada
Some countries like China, Sweden, Japan, and New Zealand have indicated they may remain closed for the Summer of 2022.
As the numbers indicate, the Summer of 2022 holds endless possibilities for adventurous travelers. Along with exciting opportunities comes essential responsibilities. A healthy and safe journey requires planning and international medical travel insurance. An insurance policy is not an inoculation for every risk involved in journeying abroad, but it can provide peace of mind when choosing the benefits of Point Comfort Travel:
- COVID-19 Medical Expense Coverage up to the Policy Maximum
- Emergency Medical Evacuation and Repatriation
- Emergency Medical Reunion
- Return of Minor Child
- Emergency Traveler Assistance
Feel the Summer of 22 with the fast, simple, and secure benefits of Point Comfort Travel!
Is your trip covered? CLICK HERE for FREE quote.
Share your Summer Adventures with #pointcomforttravel
