It's a weird world out there right now. I've spent the past week scrambling to help my clients reschedule their trips, obtain refunds and, generally, try to help them make sense of what is going on around them. You know what else I did? I booked a Disney cruise for my mom and myself for Mother's Day, an anniversary trip to Sandals in August and a cruise on the new Virgin Voyages adults-only cruise line this fall. "Christine, with all the uncertainty in the world right now, why are you still booking trips for yourself?" I know it may sound crazy, but now is the best time to book your future travel. Here's why:
It's good for your mental health. Did you know that planning a trip can actually make you even happier than taking a trip? It's true! (Here's a fun article that explains) There is so much fear and uncertainty right now, that having something to look forward to can be a huge mood-booster.
There are some great deals right now. With all of the cancellations, travel suppliers are looking to fill their staterooms, hotel rooms and tours this summer, fall and winter, so there are some great opportunities to finally take that dream vacation at a great price.
Availability is growing scarce. This is happening for two reasons. First, people are absolutely still booking their trips -- especially for the holidays or Spring Break 2021 and rooms are filling up fast. Second, there are a ton of people who were supposed to travel now who are rescheduling and taking up a ton of available rooms. If you wait too long, you may not be able to book the vacation or dates you want.
Cancellation policies are relaxed. The truth is, we don't know what's going to happen or when this is going to end. Honestly, I don't even know if I will be able to afford these trips depending on how long this goes on, but I rest easy knowing I can cancel if I need to.
I'd be lying if I said the past week wasn't one of the most stressful of my professional career and am completely expecting it to get darker before we see the dawn, but I love having something to look forward to. If this goes on longer than expected or if, financially, a trip in the future doesn't make sense, I can always cancel. In the meantime, I am dreaming of beautiful places, calmer times and a whole lot of margaritas! Now really is the best time to book your next trip.
PS -- Check out our amazing "special offer" below!
