Like most of you, I’m tired of sitting at home waiting for the world to open back up again. I’m well aware that it’s going to be a very long time before things feel “normal” again, but I need to start taking some baby steps back towards my pre-COVID-19 life. And for me, that includes travel.
I haven’t been on a plane since November, which is definitely setting records. Until a few days ago, I had not spent a night away from home since February. And I hadn’t eaten in a restaurant since the first week in March. Now that we are safely entering “Phase 3” of Rhode Island’s post-pandemic re-opening plan, I figured it was time to test the waters with a quick overnight getaway.
Block Island, RI seemed like the natural choice, with its fresh air, open spaces, and easy commute from my home in Wakefield (a one-hour scenic ferry ride). My husband and I booked a night at the Spring House Hotel, packed our masks, hand sanitizer and sunscreen, and took the plunge.
After so many months at home, heading out on a mini-vacation felt decadent, a little scary, and LONG overdue. And you know what? It was great!
We felt very safe because everywhere we went the proper protocols were being followed. People wore masks and observed social distancing.
The hotel room was spotlessly clean, and crowds were light.
We read books on our sunny deck, enjoyed cocktails and live music on the hotel lawn, dined al fresco on the back patio of their restaurant, and strolled through the shops and galleries in town.
In total, we spent less than 24 hours on the island, but it was just enough for a complete re-set. I came home feeling happier, more relaxed, more hopeful about the future, and only a little bit sunburned 😊
All in all, I would consider it a very successful experiment. What about you? Are you ready to venture out? If so, I’ve been gathering first-hand intel from colleagues (and their clients) who have already ventured further afield. Let me know if you want to hear about logistics/precautions for visiting Mexico, Jamaica, or any of the other destinations that have started to open up their doors to Americans.
And if you’d prefer to start with baby steps like I did, that’s cool too. I know some great spots close to home 😊
