Safe Travels - Your Guide to a 'Safe-cation'
You don’t have to let the pandemic ruin your vacation plans - you can still have a dream getaway in Florida! The COVID-19 outbreak has certainly changed the way in which we travel, and has taught us new ways to enjoy traveling. We explore ways to travel during these unprecedented times, and give you our list of top choices for airlines, RV parks, hotels, rentals, and beaches.
Airlines
Surprisingly, taking an airplane is actually a safe way to travel these days. Flying can be safer than going to a restaurant or public pool, notes Dr. Amesh Adalja, a senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security. This is primarily due to the fact that airlines and airports have measures in place to reduce the spread of the virus. We also know now that high-touch surfaces aren't as common a method of transmission as previously thought. Still, there are things you can do to make your flight even safer for you and your family:
Check the policies of certain airlines and choose one whose precautionary measures suit you best.
Many airlines are blocking out middle seats in planes to create distance between passengers; but it’s still best to look for seats away from other travelers. Window seats have been deemed the safest.
Just to be on the safe side, bring disinfectant wipes in your carry-on bag, and wipe down any non-porous surface areas of your seat and tray tables before sitting down. You should do the same when using the restroom.
Apart from when you eat and drink, you should wear your mask the entire flight.
Our Top Safe Travel Choices:
Located in the center of the state, Orlando International Airport (MCO) is ideal for exploring all that Florida has to offer. Not only is MCO centrally located, but it's also easy to get to. In 2019 MCO exceeded over 50 million passengers, making it the busiest airport in Florida. Travelers have non-stop service from many domestic and international cities as well as a variety of airlines to choose from making MCO the best airport choice for your travel to Florida. In addition to more destinations, MCO also gives you more services, more travel comforts, more parking options, more dining, more shopping, and more conveniences.
orlandoairports.net
When you visit the west coast of Florida, Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) is your world-class aviation getaway to Florida's Gulf Coast. Conveniently centered in a region full of exciting attractions, nearby points of interest include the famous white-sand beaches of Siesta Key, only minutes away. As the primary air carrier and general aviation airport of Manatee & Sarasota counties, their extended catchment spans Florida's west coast, from Tampa Bay to Ft. Myers. Also, they are a smaller airport, which means you get a more personal touch and stress-free environment without the long lines of bigger airports.
srq-airport.com
Driving and RVs
Many travelers are choosing to take a road trip rather than fly these days. Dr. Allison Agwu, an infectious disease physician at Johns Hopkins Medicine, suggests that this is because you have the opportunity to control your environment.
Be sure to bring your own sanitizing supplies with you, as well as protective gear. Pack plenty of hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, paper towels, and masks.
If you need to stop at a rest stop, touch as little as possible - try to use a disposable hand towel to open and close doors. Use toilet seat covers, especially for children.
Wear masks when stopping at rest stops, gas stations, convenience stores, and fast food restaurants.
After using your credit card, be sure to wipe it down with a sanitizing wipe.
One of the healthiest things to do is bring your own food and drinks for the road trip to avoid extra stops.
Many travelers of the road, particularly families, are opting to rent RVs for the most controlled environment while traveling - since it is both your ride and your hotel! If you’re traveling via RV, be sure to keep in mind:
If possible, set up virtual tours of potential rentals vs. touring them in person.
The CDC notes “RV travel typically means staying at RV parks overnight and getting gas and supplies at other public places.” When you stop, wear a face mask, practice social distancing, and wash your hands often.
Check your state’s COVID guidelines to ensure that the business you choose adheres to its safety standards, and also be aware of state-to-state regulations and rules.
When you arrive at the RV park, be sure to follow all safety rules.
Our Top Safe Travel Choices:
Red Coconut RV Park in Fort Myers is a beachfront experience like no other. A local landmark, this park sits on 450 feet of white, powdery sand, bordered by the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. There are shower and laundry facilities available onsite, perfect for an extended stay. Each site offers a concrete slab, full hook ups, basic cable, and internet service, and picnic table. Propane and sewer dump area available. Pets are welcome with up to date immunization records. Just steps away from the Calusa Blueway, with a canoe/kayak launch behind park in the Matanzas Pass Preserve.
redcoconut.com
Riverside RV Resort & Campground, A Florida Campground, in Arcadia offers you the chance to experience an undiscovered paradise and unmatched relaxation. When you enter the resort, you will arrive to warm, friendly smiles and waving palm trees. Sites include complete hookups, and the park offers a boat dock and ramp, picnic area, playground, shower facilities, and more.
rvonthego.com
Hotels and Rentals
You want to feel safe in the place you’re staying. When selecting a hotel or rental, know that there are steps you can tale to feel at ease with your health. Experts believe that while hotels and rental homes do pose a slight risk of virus transmission, it is safer to stay at these places rather than staying with family or friends.
Be sure to read through the lodging’s rules and ensure they take extra safety precautions. Choose a place whose safety steps set you at ease.
Amenities, particularly for families, can be quite important; so always check whether these are going to be open or available to you during your stay. Many shared spaces like gyms or pools are closed or highly regulated.
Don’t forget your sanitizing wipes! Focus on high-touch items like keys, remotes, night stands, door handles, sink tops, the fridge (inside and out), and other non-porous surfaces.
If you have a kitchen area, wash all dishes and cooking utensils before using them.
Don’t hesitate to ask for clean sheets and bedding, as well as towels and washcloths.
Any time you’re in a shared space, wear your mask. Try to avoid indoor shared spaces or visit them at times when there won’t be a lot of other people around.
If you choose a rental home, communicate with the owner about how much time will pass between you and another guest. Try to have a two-day buffer between stays.
Our Top Safe Travel Choices:
Embassy Suites by Hilton, Fort Lauderdale is centrally located on the 17th Street Causeway. Two miles from the Airport, Beach and Downtown and only blocks away from the Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port and Broward County Convention Center. Every room is a two-room suites with a living room area, and separate bedroom. Start the day with a complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast.
hilton.com
Emerald Coast Vacation Rentals offers a wide range of properties that include condos, townhomes, beach houses and cottages. Each property offers fully equipped kitchens and all the necessities of home. During your stay you will enjoy a free all inclusive vacation package that includes golf, fishing, and more!
ecvr.com
Beaches
One of the top choices for a safe travel destination is the beach! While it has always been a popular option, these days it provides extra safety when not crowded by offering natural social distancing and plenty of fresh air. Families can let children run around and play. Still, there are precautions you should take.
Research local guidelines for outdoor activities so you know ahead of time how to behave.
Maintain social distancing with anyone outside your family and friends.
If you are around other people, be sure to wear a mask - even if you’re outside.
Avoid or spend little time in places where people congregate like parking lots, restrooms, showers, and concessions.
If possible, bring your own food and drink to the beach to avoid concessions altogether.
In all the effort to practice safety, don’t forget to stay safe from the sun. Sunscreen up!
Our Top Safe Travel Choices:
Located on the shores of the beautiful Gulf of Mexico, across the bay from the mainland Sarasota, lies the gorgeous beach community of Siesta Key. Siesta Key is the perfect destination to spend a holiday, a season or a lifetime and, whether you are visiting for a week or just a weekend, you’re going to have the time of your life here. Recognized as the #1 beach in the United States by “Dr. Beach”, the white sand beaches of Siesta Public Beach offer a playground, tennis and beach volleyball courts, picnic areas and more. If you are looking for a quieter, more secluded beach, Crescent Beach is ideal. Turtle Beach offers a sportier atmosphere and fishing is permitted in nearby Blind Pass Lagoon. Lastly, if you are looking for live music, exciting night life and shopping, look no further than Siesta Key Village.
siestakeychamber.com
The island of Palm Beach is home to legendary resorts, exquisite mansions and historic landmarks, including Henry Flagler's former residence, now the Flagler Museum. Lined with stately palm trees, the shopping nirvana of Worth Avenue is known worldwide. Palm Beach Island's Gilded Age architecture will captivate, as will the chic restaurants and a winter highlight, the Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival. Golf here affords views along the Atlantic Ocean, the Intracoastal Waterway and Lake Worth Lagoon. Palm Beach has a way of making any visitor feel privileged.
thepalmbeaches.com
More Places to Travel Safe in Florida
