As many states have eased COVID-19 restrictions, people have started travelling especially to the hill states like Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
We have seen several pictures of tourists flocking to the hill states and visuals emerging out of these locations show travellers forgetting the critical COVID-19 protocol that has been followed for months.
The term ‘revenge travel’ is being thoroughly put into practice now as thousands flock to hill stations and retreats.
What is revenge travel?
Revenge travel stems from a feeling of wanting to break free from the monotonous life of lockdowns. It is a product of another phenomenon called ‘lockdown-fatigue’ or exhaustion that escalates on account of monotony.
It seeks a change from the months of anxiety, of working from home (WFH), doing or conducting classes online and inability to meet friends and relatives.
In simpler terms, people are tired of following the same routine day after day. This has led to a sort of fatigue that makes them want to escape to the hills or other tourist destinations, a concept, also known as revenge travel.
Here are some things to keep in mind while travelling in the COVID-19 pandemic:
– Vaccination: One of the ways to reduce the risk of getting infected is by the taking COVID vaccine. Take at least the first dose of vaccine before travelling anywhere. While it does not promise a complete immunity, it does reduce the risk of developing complications.
– Check inter-state requirements like e-pass, negative PCR Test, etc. and plan your vacations accordingly.
– Follow COVID appropriate behaviour: Practice social distancing, wear a mask and carry a sanitiser at all times.
– Travel in smaller groups
– Limit contact with frequently touched surfaces, such as handrails, elevator buttons etc.
