SAFETY FIRST
BY Pallavi Pinakin
As international borders reopen gradually and travellers venture out once again, are ‘bubble holidays’ set to become the next big thing? This type of travel is ideal for senior citizens, families with children or elderly members and anyone facing health issues.
Everything is tailored to maximise safety and hygiene, and interaction with other travellers is kept to a minimum. Here are some tips, should you want to plan your first bubble holiday.
THE DESTINATION Certain holiday hotspots are ideal for such vacations: island nations such as the Maldives and Seychelles are most suitable – and with good reason! Balmy weather all year round allows you to spend time outdoors and tourist accommodation tends to be spaced out.
Another option is to opt for a relatively undiscovered locale such as an isolated mountain hamlet, a remote wildlife lodge or a low-key beach town. There won’t be crowds and you can enjoy nature’s open spaces in relative solitude.
ACCOMMODATION Choose a resort-style property that’s sprawled across spacious grounds. Physical distancing comes naturally in such places, and they afford guests plenty of room to explore and have fun without getting in each other’s way.
For those who seek additional privacy, booking a standalone suite or cottage in the hotel makes the most sense. Airbnb and similar platforms offer the option of booking an entire apartment or homestay venue across a range of budgets.
LIFE IN A VILLA If you’ve dreamed of staying in a villa, now is the best time! Holiday villas offer a truly secluded travel experience. Having a kitchen on the premises means you can enjoy your meals in safety and comfort.
Carry plenty of games, books and music to guarantee hours of fun with family or friends. You can even take this to the next level by renting a luxurious property with all the bells and whistles, ranging from a sit out garden to a private swimming pool.
SAFE ADVENTURES Choose experiences that are high in excitement and low on risk. A seaside vacation provides a host of outdoor experiences such as water sports, beach walks, snorkelling, diving, cruising or simply relaxing on the beach.
Other nature oriented activities such as hiking, trekking and camping are also high on the safety index. If you’re likely to be in a city, choose guided open-air walks, explore outdoor monuments or street art, or visit museums during off-peak times. And when dining out, select restaurants where the staff is fully vaccinated.