Travel is Changing

Borders are loosening their knots, services are gearing back up, parks and accomodations are reopening, adults and older youth are getting vaccinations or even boosters for select Pfizer recipients…but I hope you like disappointment and overpaying.

This is the world we live in now. And we're all so desperate for a change of scenery, it's worth the headaches and hefty price tags. I'm talking about this unusual economical paradox we've found ourselves facing.

I read. A lot. On my phone, in my planner, on my computer, the physical book copy (you 'member those!), the slew of magazines I'm subscribed to, things I've printed - you get the idea. As a result of this constant in-pouring of information, the more unattainable a budget-friendly enjoyable family vacation becomes.

Gas prices are climbing hastily, moderately priced hotels are selling out, rental vehicles are impossible to snag, airport security lines are taking many multiple hours to get through, airport attendants are turning passengers away because of Covid-19 policy fine print, all the decent pet care providers are over-booked, and I hope you like waiting an hour for those breakfast biscuits that you have to order to-go because many smaller restaurants are back to not offering any sit-down services. Let's not forget the many flights being cancelled daily as well. This is travel now.

Pessimism aside, if these annoyances and higher prices don't bother you, I say dream big and plan small. We recently took a short trip to Seattle and it was definitely the reset that we needed. We experienced new things, we spoke to other adults outside of a video or phone call, and we ate without the dread of cooking followed by endless dirty dishes. Dare to do differently and be flexible enough to change your plans.

Instead of flying or renting a vehicle, we paid to have our family car detailed and oh what a difference! In our freshly cleaned vehicle, we hit the road when we were good and ready, we took in the sights along our route, we stopped to potty and stretch, we ate tasty snacks and stayed hydrated the entire course of the drive. As parents, this made the choice to drive absolutely priceless.

So next time you find yourself fantasizing about a getaway, don't think and just do!