January 2020 looked promising. New Year’s Day was all about living your best life, taking those dream vacations, going to school, or maybe even tying the knot. While no one could have imagined what 2020 actually had in store for us on December 31, 2019, we unfortunately now know the impact of COVID-19.
Vacations became Staycations. Travels became neighborhood walks. 4 course dinners became takeout.
How COVID-19 Changed Travel
What started as a ‘mystery’ virus has completely changed the way we live, work, study, dine, socialize, and of course, travel. After the Macau casinos began shutting down, travelers realized this virus wasn’t the flu or the common cold. After famous casinos like the Wynn and Sand closed their doors in China, the world started to pay attention. From that point, it was a domino effect. Borders closed, flights got canceled, hysteria ensued, and local governments put stay-at-home orders in place.
Weddings, birthday parties, vacations, graduations, and social gathers came to a screeching halt. The travel and tourism industry took a notable hit. Airline workers, hotel employees, and travel agents began losing their jobs.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Black Culture.
Amid the COVID-19 craziness, the US saw one of the most tumultuous times in American history. While the pandemic caused a wave of stress and social media outlets were booming, Americans rallied against the discrimination and racism that have contributed to adverse emotional, mental, and physical health outcomes in Black communities.
What Comes Next?
As Americans continue to heal, grieve, and digest the impact of COVID-19, there’s light at the end of the tunnel. Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, and Moderna are rolling out vaccines to the American public.
While staycations, Zoom meetings, and working out at home will still be part of our agenda for the foreseeable future, we are making progress toward getting back to “normal.” For now, we suggest staying active at home. Do something special like create a spa day, learn a new craft, or take up a hobby. Sometimes being home isn’t all that bad!
The skies will slowly begin to reopen, but the travel and tourism industry has changed forever. Health safety will likely be a concern for travelers from here on out. Moving forward is all about learning to enjoy where you are, being patient, and knowing things will get better..
