IS TRAVEL SAFE?      A statement OR a question.

Over the past two years “lockdowns”& “restrictions” have caused a number of issues too many people, entrepreneurs, business owners in many sectors.  We could decide to remain in our “bubbles” OR We could look at what science has given us with regards to vaccines, health and safety protocols to help us with moving beyond this time!

 A number of my clients, as well as myself, had to put trips & tours on hold since 2020 – then I followed the “science” as well as what was taking place in the proposed destinations, we then moved forward to 2022.     I, myself, would not recommend for my clients to embark on a vacation that was a potential health hazard.    Watching closely, and following world renowned scientists and medical professionals are an intricate detail in my planning, all which has brought me to today’s blog topic.

I recently returned to Canada after hosting a 19 day European Group Tour.   My first time out of the country since returning March 2020.   Also the first time for members of the group and the first time any of them had been to Europe or River Cruised!      I was so pleased to share these special moments with them as well as my love for Europe, the beautiful countries, cultures, people, cuisine etc.

I’d like to share, that I have tested negative for COVID-19 since returning to Canada & this is not just purely “luck”.    Being Proactive with Health & Safety Protocols both personally, as well as following the protocols in place within the countries travelled, transportation/cruising are the main contributors!

Beginning with travelling through Canada’s airports & rules of the Air Industry, to arriving in Amsterdam and following the Dutch Governments rules, we felt very comfortable.   Wearing masks when required – such as public transportation, stores, restaurants, along with washing and sanitizing our hands where followed by our entire group.    After a few days, we embarked on AmaWaterways River Cruise Vessel, the AmaPrima.   To note, the ship was not at the full capacity of 156 guests, they were around the 69 passengers. The protocols practiced where of high standard, notably both onboard and with all tour partners whom AmaWaterways use the services of.    Once again, everyone felt very safe and were therefore able to enjoy everything to the fullest.

Post Cruise our group set off on an itinerary, designed & booked by myself, which took us by Trains, Taxis, Tram Cars, Rental Car and Planes.   The Journey took us from Luxembourg to France; France to Germany; from Germany through Switzerland, Liechtenstein & Austria and home again.    Each country we visited practiced a high level of measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.   All those working in industries or those who utilized such as public transportation, shopping, grocery stores, restaurants, hotel staff, and tour operators all were required to wear masks etc.     No mask – no service straight across the board.

Although we experienced busy airports and flights – at no time did we feel potentially “exposed” or anxious.

For those of you still feeling a bit apprehensive or wondering – I personally am here to share:  “If you yourself have taken the health measures – such as immunization, wearing masks in public as well as proper hand sanitizing, travel is safe”    I would venture on to say, if you are still apprehensive, perhaps small group tours; working with a travel expert who will review the situation at the point of destination are your best options.

If you have been pondering travel to Europe, to one or a number of countries, I can honestly say, now is a great time to do so.   For many reasons, outlined above as well as the usual crowds found in cities such as Amsterdam, Paris and Salzburg….are quite simply just not there.   The hospitality and other tourism sectors are open and awaiting your visit. 

Upcoming Group Hosted Travel Opportunities with Wanderlust Excursions:

1. NYC Holiday Extravaganza 2022 Tour – In November join Kathy in New York City for all the excitement leading up to the Holidays.   Tour Highlights: Rockettes Christmas Spectacular – a performance you will be talking about for years to come; Tour includes visits to some of New York’s iconic sites, holiday markets, shopping, Central Park and much more.
2.  “Sailing for Wishes” 2023 – Join Kathy in November, 2023 for an unforgettable Christmas themed River Cruise on Europe’s Danube River.  Sailing for Wishes is a program developed by Wanderlust Excursions in support of Make-a-Wish Canada.    For every double booked cabin sold Wanderlust Excursions will donate a portion of profits to Make-A-Wish!    Contact info@wanderlustexcursions.ca for more information and details.     Together we can assist Make-A-Wish grant wishes to two (2) or more deserving children!! https://www.wanderlustexcursions.ca/sailing-for-wishes-2023/
3. NYC Spring 2023 Tour – Stay tuned for upcoming details.

For professional planned vacations and recommendations for your destination of choice, or interest in upcoming group hosted tours by Wanderlust Excursions, please reach out by e-mail;  info@wanderlustexcursions.ca or by phone: (902)798-6354.

Yours in Travel

Kathy M. Blois, Owner/Principal Travel Designer

Wanderlust Excursions

“Breathing Life into Your Travel Dreams”