Much of the world is still on high alert because of COVID-19. The travel industry has taken a significant hit with a 44 percent decline in travel spending over the past year. No group has been more affected than the people who work in the service sector. The COVID recession has economically devasted those that make their living working in resorts, hotels, or on cruise ships. As doctors and scientists have learned more about the coronavirus and promise a viable vaccine draws near, I believe travel will continue to be a thriving industry. I also think there is a great deal of pent up demand. People are dying to get back out, and I look forward to seeing a travel boom in 2021. While some will probably be a little apprehensive about booking a trip shortly, it’s essential to know that leisure travel and tourism contributes significantly to a thriving and productive society. With a new year approaching, isn’t it time to start planning your next vacation? Here are four compelling reasons why you should make travel a priority in 2021 and beyond.
1) Travel is good for the economy. Many signs point to a significant rebound for travel in 2021. People will be making up for missed travel in 2020 and trying to use their travel vouchers, which will expire soon. When you book that trip, know that you are making a positive impact. No one will be more glad to see travelers than those whose livelihoods depend on tourists. And when you get out there again, be a generous tipper. If you usually tip 20 percent, consider giving 30 percent. And how about saying thank you to every person who goes out of their way to make your vacation a trip to remember.
2) Travel is beneficial to your mental health. A significant amount of scientific research suggests that traveling can do wonders for your mental and emotional health. Traveling is a tremendous stress buster. It can boost your happiness and satisfaction in life. Travel expands your mental acumen. And lastly, traveling with family and friends enhances your relationships. All of us could use more real-life connections and perhaps a little less virtual. We were designed to be in relationships with others.
3) People who travel more often live longer and healthier lives. A recent study by the Global Commission on Aging and Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies concluded that traveling keeps you healthier. The study showed that women who vacation at least twice a year are at lower risk of suffering a heart attack than their non-traveling counterparts. The study also revealed that men who do not take an annual vacation increase their heart disease risk by 30 percent. While on vacation, travelers can rack up plenty of steps per day. Activities like canoeing, paddleboarding, hiking, swimming, and even walking on the beach can boost fitness. Even having a trip on the calendar can have a positive impact on our bodies. Travel can be an opportunity to improve our fitness routines. Nothing like a future beach trip to send us back to the gym to work on those six-pack abs and tighten those tummies. If there was ever a time to be thinking about health and wellness, now is the time.
4) People who travel more make priceless memories with their families and friends. Yes, this sounds a little cliché, but it’s 100 percent true. No one will look back on their life and wish they have had a bigger television, a better car, and nicer clothes. What they will remember was an unforgettable Christmas cruise with their family. They will remember that trip to Cabo with their closest friends. A day isn’t wasted if a memory is created. Travel experiences remain with us, and they remind us of how good life can be. More than anything, traveling allows us to see the world God created and behold its beauty.
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You Rock,
Bill Garner
