Hello! I’ve been on a little bit of a hiatus, but I’m back like I never left with a new blog post! Thank you for staying tuned in. As mentioned in my Amsterdam blog post, I promised I would cover what it was like traveling during the novel Corona Virus. This is what occurred while returning back home to the U.S.
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Corona Virus
Learning about the novel Corona Virus while away from home was unnerving to say the least. There were so many unknowns about contracting the virus, surviving the virus, as well as ways to remain healthy and safe. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous and scared.
When I left the U.S. for my vacation to Amsterdam, travel was still allowed. Towards the end of my trip, cases began to rise as well as the deaths caused by the virus. Countries began shutting their borders, and traveling home at this point was unknown. I finally managed to get in contact with the U.S. embassy in Amsterdam who informed me that I should be able to return to the U.S. as long as I wasn’t exhibiting symptoms. The representative also advised additional screening with the CDC would be required upon return.
In order to boost my immune system I took ginger shots, drank fresh fruit juices, and turned to my handy manuka honey, and tea. I always carry these items when traveling. Some honorable mentions are activated charcoal in case you become nauseous, or have gas; wipes to sanitize the room and plane, and manuka honey cough drops. Also, I highly suggest carrying bottled water with you when you travel as this may not be readily available, or a water bottle with a filter.
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Travel During Corona Virus
Amsterdam looked like a ghost town by the time we were leaving (and with good reason). Upon arriving at the airport, we were surrounded by long lines of concerned travelers who were also trying to get back home. After waiting, my sister and I finally spoke to a ticket agent and discovered the flight we originally had scheduled with a stop in Canada was canceled. We were then informed that Canada closed its borders to U.S. Citizens. What did this mean for us? After giving us the news, we were told to speak to customer service to see what other flight options were available.
After waiting in line again we spoke with another agent who found us a direct flight from Amsterdam to NY. The only issue was that it would be leaving within an hour. She warned if we were to wait for the next flight, we would risk possible cancellations or further delays. I told my sister we should take our chances and rush to make the flight although we hadn’t yet checked-in or gone through TSA.
After retrieving our tickets, my sister and I began a mad dash to catch our flight. But wait, remember the long line of passengers I mentioned earlier? Well, that’s exactly what we had to face when attempting to check-in and go through TSA. Frantically, I pulled a worker for the airline aside and explained to them our situation and we were allowed priority to the front of the line to check-in. We just made it and I was so thankful to God.
Flight
The flight itself was peaceful after the initial panic we went through. The plane was relatively empty with plenty of space between the passengers so that we could avoid sitting close to one another. Everyone wore their mask, and there were no issues. The food on the flight was also surprisingly delicious. I had the coconut Thai curry, cheese and fruit, and salted caramel ice cream.
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Arrival
I was so thankful to be back home because at one point it was all in the air. After the plane arrived, everyone was told that they’d have to be screened by the CDC as well as fill out a questionnaire about our travels among other things. The CDC took our temperatures as well as the forms and we were on our way. After retrieving our luggage, my sister and I headed home thankful and appreciative that we made it.
Despite the scare and uncertainty of Covid-19, I will say that everyone was so cooperative, helpful, and understanding. The employees went above and beyond to ensure that not only my sister and I made it back safe, but that EVERYONE was well taken care of. The strangers we met traveling were also kind and thoughtful. This was a difficult experience, but I’m glad that I was able to overcome it.
Final Thoughts
As always, thank you for reading. Please remain safe during this difficult time and follow the necessary precautions. Learn anything new or have any feedback? Let me know! Please comment below, and subscribe here.
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The recommendations for immune boosting products are my own personal suggestions on what works for me, and does not serve as medical or professional advice. Please consult with a medical professional.
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It must have been so scary being abroad when the pandemic struck! I haven’t travelled abroad since the start of the pandemic so it was so interesting reading about your experience. Thanks for sharing it!
It was pretty unnerving but it all worked out in the end. Thank you for reading!
It’s always interesting to read people’s experiences about travelling during covid-19. We have only travelled locally since all this madness started. Flying does sound like a lot of extra stress.
I understand. I’ve done a little of both, but the uncertainty is always there.
Traveling during covid is definitely a unique experience. 100% agree that it is so so important to be as safe as possible and follow all precautions! Here’s to hoping that travel returns to normal soon!
I couldn’t agree with you more! Hoping things get better soon.
I’ve had similar experiences as I was living abroad during 2020 and had to travel internationally in Asia and domestically in Australia right as the pandemic was kickstarting so I get what you mean about the fear and uncertainty! It’s interesting to compare that experience with flying this year
I agree! It’s almost like night and day. Travel has gotten a lot easier compared to the initial phase.
Thank you for sharing your experience!!
You’re welcome!
I am a little jealous of those who have traveled despite the quarantine. I look forward to the time when we can again travel freely!
Well to be fair this was prior to the quarantine and when it was put into place. It was actually a scary experience. I’m looking forward to the day we can travel freely as well.
I’ve recently travelled from England to Spain and was pleasantly surprised by how well Spain seems to be doing in terms of everyone having masks on all the time while in public. But it’s still very strange because a lot of the main tourist attractions are pretty empty.
I’m glad Spain is on top of things. I can only imagine how strange things must look now.
I love that you shared this! I’ve been very curious about what travel will look like now. Glad you had safe travels!!
Thank you! It was scary, but I’m glad we made it back in one piece.
I should boost my immunity with ginger and Vitamin C too. Good ideas. We did a road trip (safely), but it wasn’t easy.
Ginger and Vitamin C are great immune boosters. I’m glad your road trip was safe, even if it wasn’t easy.
I totally feel you because I had a similar experience leaving China back in January. I’ll never forget the sad sight of the completely abandoned Shanghai Railway Station. A few months later, I got very used to empty spaces and I was shocked to see huge crowds at US airports again.
Oh no, I can only imagine how sad that must’ve looked. I agree, getting used to crowds after a period of places being deserted will take some time to get used to.