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Travel

Pulse Check: How Do People Feel About Traveling?

This summer, Full-Time Travel surveyed 300+ people to see how the pandemic is impacting their travel plans for the rest of 2020. So, how do people feel about traveling at the moment? Read on to see where vacationers are hoping to go, and what’s important to them now.

Laura Gohl - Jul 24, 2020

They Are Still Optimistic About Travel

It seems the majority of travelers are keen to make up for lost time. With six months left of 2020, 67% of people said they’re planning on traveling the same amount or more than they were before the pandemic hit. In fact, 63% are already actively planning trips. If that includes you, check out the selection of properties we’ve rounded up that are perfect for upcoming holiday travel, fingers crossed! 

With a landmark location right on the sand in Myrtle Beach, SeaGlass Tower is the ideal focal point for a beach vacation. 

This Summer, They’ll Be Traveling to Domestic Destinations

About 42% of respondents said they were planning to travel over the summer, but most felt safer staying closer to home. Fifty-seven percent said they were thinking about taking a road trip. 

The most popular states for a “nearcation” are California, Hawaii, Colorado, Wyoming, New Mexico, and Utah – destinations with awe-inducing landscapes and some of the country’s most popular national parks.

Beach-y Locations Are Top Priority 

Because it’s summer, 37% of respondents said they were looking for island and beach destinations. This was followed by destinations geared towards outdoor adventure and eco-tourism, with 30%, and cities, with 19%. 

The Ritz Carlton Club St. Thomas lives up to our expectations with gorgeous everything: pools, rooms, property, cuisine, you name it.

International Travel is Still on Their Minds

Although crossing international borders is complicated right now (many countries have enforced quarantines or are only welcoming residents from places with a low rate of infection – which excludes America), 59% are interested in planning an international trip. Dream destinations included Mexico, Greece, and Caribbean islands – countries that have recently announced reopening without strict entry requirements for U.S. visitors.

They Are Willing to Fly

Although there’s some inconsistency in how airlines are handling the pandemic – some are keeping middle seats open and requiring all passengers wear masks, while others are not – 44% of travelers said they are still intending to fly to their next vacation. Thirty-three percent said they would prefer to drive.  

At Bluegreen SeaGlass Tower, nineteen stories of suites featuring floor-to-ceiling windows ensure stunning views of the ocean and Grand Strand, South Carolina’s famous 60-mile stretch of golden sand beaches. 

Cleanliness is Paramount 

Thoroughly sanitized surroundings are still the top priority for travelers. Over 65% said safety and cleanliness will be a top consideration when they book accommodation. Other important factors included the location and accessibility of the destination (64%) and a tempting deal or offer (46%).

They Would Pay More For Peace of Mind

Although adaptations have made travel possible again, some variables are difficult to control. When it comes to what they’d be willing to pay extra for, 62% of respondents said refundable travel. Around 51% would pay for more privacy/fewer crowds, and 22% value 24-hour travel support. 

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