Travel and Corona Virus: Re-book Instead of Cancelling
March 18, 2020
As I sit quarantined in my home office, my thoughts are with the first responders, government officials, and health care workers around the world who risk their very lives to either make policy or treat the thousands upon thousands who are fighting COVID-19. I am and will continue to be in awe of the selflessness of so many in the world coming together to attack and fight this war of epic proportions. As you well know, there is no way any of us can begin at this time to comprehend the eventual fallout. It will be known as one of the most horrific pandemics of all time. We will all recall this as a time of complete shock and uncertainty.
It may be especially presumptuous of me, the lowly and humble travel agency owner, to provide comfort to you at this time. Despite that, I do feel a responsibility to those who choose to follow me by reading my blog and newsletters, or by booking their hard-earned vacations with me. Now that all of my travelers whose plans were affected have been either re-booked or cancelled, I choose to share my thoughts.
The travel industry is one of the largest business categories in the world. It is estimated that more than 10% of the world’s jobs are linked to travel. I would dare say that estimate is higher if you consider entertainment and dining during travel. I have many good friends who do what I do…plan leisure travel to places all over the world. The people in some of these places live in poverty and, without travel, it will be difficult to put food in their families mouths.
I encourage you to consider postponing your vacation instead of cancelling. You will want to have something to look forward to when this world crisis is behind us and the travel advisor who has worked so hard to plan your vacation will appreciate you! Most importantly, the people who will be serving your needs in the future will know that you are still looking forward to exploring with them when this is behind us. It would be an honor to help you make that dream come true.
In the meantime, my friends, please know that my desire to spread hope, love and knowledge to support each other during this crazy time is strong. Please reach out to let me know that you are okay. I would like to offer my help in any way that I might while also being careful to follow this new normal we find ourselves facing.
Hug your loved ones virtually or physically as much as possible. That alone will boost your immunity. Community can be fostered technologically with APPS like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Linked In and we are so lucky this is true. Find comforting words for each other. Avoid the stress of constantly watching the news. (Once a day is plenty!) Arm yourself with knowledge, move physically as you are able, fortify your body with nutritious food if you have access, and see that those around you have the same. Start a journal, play games, work on home projects, garden, tidy that closet, reach out to check on your neighbors and friends by phone instead of text, read a good book.
I truly believe that good things will come of this. Yes, I dare say that. It will adversely affect our lives. Sadly, some humans will show their ugliness. I do hope you are able to look past the behavior and wonder what sort of life has made them so.
My wish for you and for all the world is this: May you see the beauty in every animal, sunrise, sunset, tree, flower, heath care worker, child…leave politics out of it. We must come together to fight regardless of our party affiliation.
Respectfully written with a true desire for your happiness and continued good health,
Bobbie Murphy
