As things slowly return to a new ‘normal’ and the tourism industry resumes operations, locals can now feel like tourists close to home as we wait for international travel to bounce back from Covid-19 restrictions. As we take to the open road with enthusiasm, bags packed, holiday playlist at hand or board local flights, many will soon be checking in at one of South Africa’s most luxurious accommodations with few foreigners in sight.
But before you experience the comforting buzz of a lodge or hotel lobby, let us remind you of some health and safety tips that are here to stay to make your vacation less stressful. While the entire world has implemented best practice such as requiring customers to wear a mask, promoting social distancing, using online or contactless reservations, check-ins and contactless payments as well as enhanced cleaning procedures, these tips will let you look forward to your getaway with optimism and excitement …
Entering public spaces:
Wear a mask.
Avoid close contact from anyone who is not from your household.
Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer (with at least 70% alcohol).
Avoid contact with anyone who is showing flu or cold symptoms.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
On the go:
Keep spare masks in your car and in your bag.
Keep a travel-size sanitiser in your bag or pocket.
Bring enough of your medicine to last you for the entire trip.
Dining Out:
Wear a mask as much as possible when not eating and maintaining a proper social distance.
Maintain social distancing in any entryway, hallway, or waiting area.
When possible, sit outside or at tables spaced at apart from other people.
When possible, choose food and drink options that are not self-serve to limit the use of shared serving utensils, handles, buttons, or touchscreens.
Activities:
Try activities and using facilities with outdoor spaces as much as possible.
Limit indoor activities or group sessions with people you are not travelling with. Remember to maintain social distancing. Masks are also essential as long as they don’t interfere with your activity.
If you’re going to be using the gym facilities, wipe down machines and equipment with disinfecting wipes and use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 70% alcohol before using machines. Do not share items that cannot be cleaned, sanitized, or disinfected between use.
But we highly recommend some rest and relaxation on your first post-lockdown getaway…
After you travel:
Try to self-isolate for at least 10 days when you return back home, even if you are feeling well.
If there’s anything this pandemic has taught us, it is that we should never take our travels for granted! We hope you make beautiful memories in the great outdoors your country has to offer until you can venture off to undiscovered corners of the world again…