Written by: Debbie Martinez • February 7, 2022• Featured Travel

Spring Break Plans: Be Realistic

It seems like I’m rushing things to be discussing spring break right after 2021 came to an end, but you really need to start thinking of any potential vacation plans. Even though travel has opened up, it can still be a maze to maneuver. Here are some things to consider when planning your getaway.

Who will you be traveling with? This really needs to be your first step. If you are planning to travel with another family, you need to know if they are vaccinated. If you are and they aren’t, or vice versa, then your travel destinations will be a shorter list to choose from.
Be honest. Whether you are traveling solo or with your family, a friend or another family, be honest with what you are willing to put up with. The last thing you want to do is start your vacation on a negative note with someone complaining of wearing a mask on a plane for five hours. Maybe you don’t want to do the mask up, mask down routine every time you enter a building. In that case, set your sights on the great outdoors or a city that has a mask-free policy, which brings me to my third step.
Where do you want to go? Once you decide what regulations you are willing to adhere to, make a list of where you would like to go and start your due diligence. This step will take some time, but I promise you it will be worth it. Don’t take for granted that just because a city is mask-free their attractions don’t have mask restrictions. Here is a perfect example. I have a friend who loves tribute bands, and her favorite was going to be in Charleston. Charleston is a mask-free city, but when I looked into the theater for her, you had to “show your papers” and wear a mask. She opted out because she would not have enjoyed the show with a mask on for two hours. So, the point being, make a list of all the activities and attractions you want to do and see and call them to get their latest updates. I say call because the websites are not always current. With policies changing as quickly as the wind blows, don’t risk looking at yesterday’s update.
Finally, check on cancellation policies for hotels, attractions, etc. Many places have become more flexible with cancellations, or those that wouldn’t normally have one have implemented them.

This has been another tough year for everyone, and I am sure you are yearning for an escape. So, pick a place that won’t add to your stress level. Airbnbs seem to be very popular because they don’t come with the restrictions of most hotels. I was in a hotel a couple of weeks ago, and the bar closed early, the restaurant was limited, a mask was required in the lobby and the spa had limited hours — yet the price of the stay was the same. I felt taken advantage of and aggravated the entire time I was there. I would have gone for a massage to relieve my stress, but the spa wasn’t open.

My final tip is all encompassing: Be realistic. It might be disappointing that you can’t go to where you really want to, but what is the alternative? Go where you want to, spend tons of money, be limited and aggravated and come home not having had a good time? For me, I choose to be realistic and to come home relaxed, happy and with fun memories. The choice is yours.

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