Travelling during pandemic; Experiencing changes

     The past year of Covid-19 has consisted of lockdowns, quarantines, restrictions, and overall changes to our day-to-day life. In the midst of it all, some found ways to continue their lives and travelled during the pandemic. 

     According to cdc.gov some travelling restrictions include staying at least six feet apart from people who did not travel with you. They also suggest wearing a mask that covers your nose and mouth when you are in shared spaces.

  During the summer break some students from North Harford went on vacation during the pandemic and experienced the changes and restrictions firsthand. Junior Abbey Heuneke visited New Hampshire and Florida. Heuneke commented that “we didn’t have to wear masks in Florida, which was weird because in New Hampshire we did. Other than masks and social distancing it was pretty normal.” 

      As for junior Lahela Thomas she travelled to Disney World in Florida and experienced it a little differently. “There were washing stations everywhere you turned. Social distancing markers, and you were to wear a mask and if you failed to wear it correctly you were kicked out.” It’s noticeable that different areas handle this pandemic in different ways.

  Cdc.gov mentioned that state, local, and territorial governments may have travel restrictions in place, but they are different everywhere.  To get up to date information and travel guidance it is recommended that you check the state and local health department wherever you are.  Senior Riley Stem travelled like other students and went to Virginia Beach. “We went expecting to need to wear masks and social distance, but there was a lot more than just that. Restaurants had only half capacity and some beaches were even closed. It’s not the vacation my family expected but we made the best of it.”

     A rise in cases occurred in the summer because it is the time of the year that people tend to travel more, putting them at risk because they are in close proximity with others. According to NPR.org “In the summer, infections were concentrated in the Sunbelt, with states like Texas, Arizona, Florida and California, adding the bulk of cases.” With most students going to sunny states for their summer vacations being safe by following the state mandated laws was common. 

  Senior Chloe Mcartor experienced the same thing as Stem in her travels to Utah with her family. “We went to Utah to see a family friend and everywhere we went masks were mandatory. Lots of businesses had their own restrictions including capacity level and how long they were open. Other than that majority of my trip was normal.” It is encouraged from the CDC that staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others from COVID-19, but if you do decide to still travel make sure you intend to follow the restrictions to stay safe.