As we all continue to combat the coronavirus pandemic by staying home and implementing social distancing procedures when we do venture out, many are looking forward to taking a vacation – escaping to somewhere fun, surrounded by people, and making happy memories after months cooped up.  The question is, what will that vacation look like and how does the travel industry have to change in order to accommodate the “new normal”?

Focus on Health. The one thing that will be on everyone’s mind as they begin to plan any vacation is their health and the health of those that they will be around. Crowded airplanes and packed cruises may be a thing of the past as we will most likely need to continue with some form of social distancing. You may even need to provide proof of good health when traveling by plane or cruise ship – especially if you are in one of the more vulnerable health groups.

Airlines. When non-essential flights return, air travel will be much different than before the pandemic hit. Most airlines will concentrate on high-traffic routes and may even eliminate or severely curtail those flights that weren’t profitable.  Most travelers will prefer direct flights to limit exposure, and flight attendants and crews will most likely wear masks and gloves as they interact with their customers. Expect to see a ban on middle-seat occupancy and changes to boarding procedures as airlines practice social distancing as well.

Cruises. One of the hardest hit in the travel industry will be cruise lines.  As we’ve seen over the past few months, cruises have been hammered with COVID-19 outbreaks, and many struggled (and are still struggling) to find ports where their passengers could disembark.  This is on top of the other periodic outbreaks aboard cruise ships that we’ve heard about in the news for years.  Cruises tend to get a bad rap as far as health and safety are concerned, but this is much different. There are several hurdles that cruise lines need to overcome in order to bounce back after the pandemic ends – especially trust.

Cruise lines are going to have to prove to the public that their ships are not a health risk. Endless buffets will be a thing of the past, with glass protecting food and servers in masks and gloves handing you your selections. Casinos, theaters, swimming pools and even dining rooms will limit the number of passengers allowed in at any given time. Cruise lines will have to make the public aware of what they are doing to keep the ships clean and their procedures to contain onboard illnesses.  In fact, most will probably increase their medical staffs and facilities to ensure they can handle medical emergencies.

Another issue that cruise ships will need to explore is air circulation.  Right now, most cruises rely on recirculated air, thus making it very easy for viruses and other illnesses to spread throughout the ship. We’ll most likely see systems put in place that bring fresh air into common areas and cabins, and an increase in sanitizing procedures.

When it comes to handling sick passengers, cruise lines will have to improve their coordination with ports around the world, ensuring that remaining passengers are protected and there is little threat to the port city as they disembark.

Hotels and Rentals. In addition to airlines and cruise lines, the hotel industry will have its own challenges. Hotels will need to promote their cleanliness, and will contend with a slow return of leisure, business and group travel.  Rentals will have a bit more to overcome as people continue to be concerned about health conditions and cleanliness of those vacation homes.

In all cases, expect to find discounted rates as the travel industry tries to rebound. Travel agents, like Luxury Destinations Concierge, will have the most up-to-date information to help you plan your trip, and will be there for you in case your plans change. Give us a call at (805) 236-4437. We’re happy to answer your questions and make your next vacation memorable!

River cruising is one of the fastest-growing segments of the cruise industry, and it’s no wonder:  River cruises give you a more intimate and diverse experience that you just don’t get on the bigger ocean cruises.  You get to experience cities and port that bigger cruise ships can’t get to, which allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture.

A great way to think about river cruises is as a land tour – only on a boat.  The focus is much more on your ports of call than on activities on the ship.  In fact, you’ll probably spend more time in each port than you do on the ship, and, unlike ocean cruises, some – or even all – of your on-shore excursions are included in your overall trip pricing.  Since river cruise ships are smaller, they have access to more ports, many of which are closer to the town center – so you get a better look at typical life than the touristy attractions you usually see with ocean cruising.  You’ll even get an opportunity to try some local activities such as cheese making, brewing beer, or learning to cook the local cuisines.

Some things to keep in mind before deciding if a river cruise is right for you:

• You won’t see a lot of young children on board.  Since a river cruise ship is much smaller, the entertainment options (including kid-friendly activities) just aren’t there.  While children are welcomed, you may want to think twice before bringing your young children.
• Disability-friendly facilities may not be available.  River cruises tend to be a bit more active than ocean cruises, and many ports you will be visiting may not be handicap accessible.  If you have mobility or other health restrictions, you may want to check before scheduling your trip.
• Choosing when you go is just as important as where.  Because you are on rivers and smaller bodies of water, access will depend on the season.  Heavy rains or shallow waters could make it difficult for ships to pass under bridges or through locks, which may change your itinerary.

Here are some the best rivers to cruise:

1. Danube River (Germany, Hungary Austria)
2. Rhine River (Switzerland, Austria, Germany, France, Netherlands)
3. Rhone River (France)
4. Volga (Russia)
5. Elbe (Germany, Czechia)

These are all wonderful destinations.  Your experiences and ports of call along the way will vary significantly from cruise line to cruise line, so do your homework, find those places that you would like to visit along each river and then contact Luxury Destinations Concierge to help you plan out your perfect river cruise!  Give us a call at 805-236-4437 to get started.

Are you planning your first ocean cruise?  I’m sure you are very excited and at the same time wondering what to expect.  Here are my top 5 things to consider as you embark on this great adventure:

1. Take advantage of all the onboard activities.  Yes, you are on an ocean cruise, and probably thinking about lounging by the pool or going ashore to explore the various ports on your itinerary.  There is so much more to do on board that you don’t want to miss out on the fun.  Everything from rock climbing walls, to full-scale Broadway shows, and all kinds of other activities for all family members.  Each day you’ll receive a schedule of activities, so plan accordingly and don’t just sit by the pool!
2. Check out the Excursion options.  Every time your ship docks in port there will be an opportunity to explore your surroundings.  Before you go on your cruise, check to see what options are available.  In many cases, cruise lines allow you to book your excursions ahead of time, but if you decide to join an outing at the last minute you should be able to sign up on board.  If you aren’t sure if you are physically up to the challenge, don’t worry – most excursions are rated on physical difficulty and will give you restriction guidelines, allowing you to judge whether the excursion is right for you.
3. Choose the right cruise.  Not all cruises are created equal, so make sure you do your research.  Some cruise lines are geared more towards families and multi-generation vacations (think Disney Cruise Line), while others may have a younger adult feel – lots of night live and “party” atmosphere.  Of course your destinations are most important, but keep in mind the typical demographic that the cruise line attracts.  It could make or break your vacation.
4. Be aware of extra costs.  While cruises tend to bill themselves as “all-inclusive”, that usually means your room, your meals and most of the onboard entertainment.  There are some things that you should watch out for that will hit your wallet, though, including:
   • Beverages.  Cruises typically offer coffee, tea and water as complimentary – anything over and above that will be billed to you.  Cruise lines are notorious for charging high prices for alcoholic beverages and soda, so be careful when ordering that next round!
   • Additional Dining Opportunities.  While most food is included in your booking fees (including room service!), there may be opportunities for a special dining experience that will cost extra – and be well worth it!
   • Gratuities.  This is an interesting additional cost to your trip.  Most cruise lines have a per diem gratuity added to your overall bill, which takes away some of the guesswork about whether to tip waiters or room stewards.  My suggestion here is to make sure you don’t double-tip (unless, of course, the service was that good!).
   • Entertainment.  While most entertainment is included, there has been a recent trend to add a “cover charge” to some of these events.  Just keep this in mind as you choose what show or event you attend.
5. Get travel insurance.  This probably ranks up there with making sure that you choose the right cruise.  Getting a refund because of a family emergency is extremely difficult, especially when most cruise lines offer $0 refund if cancelled within 30 days of your trip (which negates the meaning of “emergency”).  Travel insurance will also help with medical emergencies during your trip and a lot more.  Bottom line:  for your own peace of mind, get travel insurance for your trip.

Are you ready to book your ocean cruise?  Let Luxury Destinations Concierge help.  Give us a call at 805-236-4437.