COVID of course hit the world hard, and Australia had its share of lockdowns and isolations during the height of the pandemic. Many businesses suffered and closed. Nothing was hit harder by COVID than the travel and tourism industry.

International travel suddenly halted. In Australia, even travel between states was prohibited.

With COVID restrictions easing and so many people enjoying their newfound freedom comes the want and need to travel. And just like that, the travel and tourism industry has emerged like a Phoenix from the ashes.

This does not mean it is easy. With a shortage of skilled personnel, the upskilling and training of new staff is difficult and takes time. As the saying goes, Rome was not built in a day, not even a week or a month and getting new people up to speed on the procedures and processes in the various travel and tourism industry sectors is difficult.

Pre-COVID, we enjoyed our freedom, and it was easy to travel anywhere on a whim. We were spoiled for choice and could travel without a care. Post-COVID travel is a little different and by making a few changes in how we prepare for a trip and travel can help make the experience very enjoyable!

Our top tips on making it easier:

Tip 1: Before deciding on a trip, ensure your passport is current and has at least six months of validity from your return date.

Tip 2: Book early! Rising inflation means that airfares are increasing and demand for the seats is high so the earlier you can plan ahead the better the deal you will get.

Tip 3: If you are going to a country where visas are required, apply for these early as the demand may have increased.

Tip 4: Make sure you get comprehensive travel insurance. Travel insurance is more prevalent now than ever before. Take travel insurance that covers you for COVID.

Tip 5: Mark your luggage well and pack your belongings securely. Take a photo of your packed belongings and the outside of your luggage. This will can help with identification as so many bags look the same. Gadgets such as Apple Air tags are a great little device for locating your luggage when it is busy.

Tip 6: Take a spare set of clothing, medication, phone/computer chargers, and things important to you in your hand luggage. Remember to check the hand luggage allowance for the airline.

Tip 7: We know that there are many online options to DIY your travel, but in the current travel climate, so many things can go wrong. Booking through an accredited, trusted travel agent can relieve travel stress – that’s why we are here!

Tip 8: When you travel, whether for business or pleasure, be flexible, take your time and prepare for every eventuality and unforeseen circumstances such as delays or cancellations. This way IF it happens you are far less stressed.

But most of all, remember that travel is a wonderful gift, and we now appreciate it more than ever, so don’t focus on the things we cannot change.

Embrace it and enjoy!