What took me so long?

This year have brought so many challenges to each one of us on our personal and professional levels. Travel have been hit hard for months, on all aspects, and while we navigate these new waters together, as a community, I would like to share some things I consider you should to take into consideration before planning and/or booking your next vacation.

• Travel Insurance - this have been suggested frequently on many of my posts. But why it's so important. Simply put...Peace of Mind. Advisors might have a preferred travel insurance company, but this doesn't mean you can't go with the one you trust. As of today, October 8, 2020; there are travel insurance partners that will protect you if you get sick due to Covid19, did you know that? Protect your investment, travel is an investment.
• Know the new entry regulations -  while many countries are opening their doors to tourists, there might have different entry requirement in place depending on where you live. For example, Costa Rica began accepting US Citizens to their soil, but this opening have been on slow and organized. They have been accepting citizens from 12 states and adding some states on the following weeks. By November 1st, all US States residents are welcome in Costa Rica. They have rigorous regulations in place, like negative test results, travel protection with at least $50,000 medical expense coverage, and more. To avoid deny entry you can read the detail here: https://www.visitcostarica.com/es/costa-rica/lo-que-debes-saber-sobre-costa-rica-si-deseas-viajar-en-el-contexto-covid-19
• Do I need airfare? - it might not seem important or the total opposite. You'll have to evaluate your personal concerns and how airlines are handling Covid19 situation. I had my own experience with Southwest and American Airlines back in June 2020. I flew both, and the safest in that moment for me was Southwest Airlines, which allowed the middle seats to be empty. Not only we were required to wear masks, but also we were distanced between each other and for me that was very important. With American Airlines I did not had the same experience and for what I've heard AA is still filling their planes to the max, no empty seats people! So be very aware of that. Your travel advisor can help you narrow the options, depending of your gateway. 
• Masks or no masks? -  That previous point brought this one up. Not all of us are comfortable wearing masks, and many places are imposing it. So it's not a choice, it's a requirement. If you are not willing to abide by this, my recommendation to you is that your travels will have to wait a little longer.  
• Are you afraid of travel shaming? - Sadly to say, this is happening. Nowadays everyone have an opinion and even worse they think they have to share it. Puertorricans have a saying that reads: "Quiet I look prettier". We must think before we speak; nothing struck us harder in the gut that an unwanted opinion and mostly from someone we know. Don't let other people's opinion hurt you or your plans. 

Do not get discouraged, make a list of your ideas, your likes and dislikes and while more countries open to visit, we as advisors can help you narrow them. This way you'll be able to fulfill what's most important for you and your family. Give yourself the chance to unwind and rest from what this year have brought to us. Time to re organize and shift, towards a better way to reach your goals. Whenever  YOU are ready, we are ready for you. 

Leila Reyes, CTA, MCC
Travel Advisor