Traveling in a Time of Crisis

In our globally connected world, we are facing an unprecedented crisis. Not only has travel and tourism been decimated by the current pandemic but we also face a crisis of confidence.

For all our technological and medical advances, despite our ability to communicate across countries and continents, we have been made aware of our frailty and mortality by a small, invisible but dangerous virus. This is not the first time of course that humanity has had to deal with such pandemics. Our history provides more than enough evidence of global catastrophe, of human suffering, of intolerance and indifference, and sadly of arrogance.

Even during times of crisis and pandemics we travel. It is in our blood. It is inscribed in our genetic code. We need to move, to run away, to explore, to see what is on the other side. Because, more than anything, we hope it will be better, safer. Or perhaps we have just become accustomed to too many luxuries, become too lazy and selfish.

Tips for safe travel

I do not claim to know what is the best or safest way to travel. All I can do is share my experiences and thoughts on the matter and offer some travel tips for those wishing to venture out there.

Option 1: by train

I personally think traveling by train is the way to go if you are not in a huge hurry to get to your destination. Nowadays, trains are generally clean and safe and you can often practice social distancing better than in a bus or plane. I also think trains are romantic. I would love to travel on the Orient Express or Trans-Siberian Express, two of the world’s classic train journeys. I also find train stations fascinating and a perfect place to people watch, to observe both singles and groups in their migratory patterns.

Option 2: by plane

This is obviously the quickest, usually safest, and very often the cheapest option to travel in our modern world. But even with sanitary precautions and advanced air systems I would not feel comfortable sitting on a plane for even a few hours with a mask. It’s just me, but I find it claustrophobic at the best of times wearing a mask let alone on a potentially cramped plane to who knows where.

Option 3: bus

In the old days, this was often how I traveled from place to place. Buses were cheap, usually comfortable and you got to see more scenery than by other means of transport. Plus, I met some wonderful people traveling on buses and those memories will always remain with me. But with the need to practice social distancing, I am in two minds as to whether this is a safe way to travel during this time.

Option 4: on foot

Those familiar with classic religious and secular literature will know that pilgrimages were usually conducted on foot unless you were lucky enough to be a noble or member of the clergy who could afford a horse. There is something quite romantic about the notion of moving from one place to another powered only by your own feet and will. Is it practical nowadays? Almost certainly not. Is it a safe way to travel? Possibly, but I guess it all depends on where you are.

Preparations for travel

Traveling is not just about packing your bags, making sure you have your tickets, passport, and money ready. I believe it is also about being mentally prepared. Knowing the laws or restrictions of the country you are leaving from and the one you are going to is very important. Check the websites of government and health agencies to understand what you may need to do or bring to be safe. Check travel website and blogs for more travel tips. The more information you have, the easier things will go.

During the journey

To the extent possible, practice social distancing. Wear a mask at all times. Wash your hands often and thoroughly. Take music to listen to, a book or magazine to read, a notepad to keep a diary or just write down random thoughts or ideas. Drink lots of fluids, especially on planes.

Once you arrive

Make sure to follow any instructions from local authorities regarding health and safety. Try and make an effort to learn a few words of the local language, if relevant, and always try and smile and be pleasant. Even if you are tired or frustrated, a smile or a thank you can go a long way to making your journey more pleasant and you will find people are more willing to help.

Final words

Is it safe to travel during a pandemic? Is it selfish to do so for personal reasons, like a holiday? I am unsure about both matters. On the one hand, I think we are better off putting our personal needs aside for now and waiting until the worst of it is over, hopefully. On the other hand, I understand people’s need to get away, to have a break and try and forget the lockdowns and other hardships. At the end of the day, every person needs to be at peace with their conscience and know what is best or right for them. Personally, I have decided to forego personal travel for the foreseeable future. I also see this is an opportunity to plan ahead for possible future travels, to reflect upon past experiences, and perhaps to learn more about myself during the process. Hopefully, some of these travel tips will help you have a smooth experience both now and in the future.

Safe journeys!

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