The most recent edition of Destination Analysts' Pandemic-related Travel Sentiment Index dropped earlier this week and, while long-range travel planning has ticked up with the arrival of the vaccines, the interest in short term travel continues to dim, likely based upon the post-Thanksgiving spikes around the country. And, it's about to happen all over again as governments start loosening restrictions. Which, as we look at the last month, is simply insane. But, elected officials clearly believe that, while they may be forgiven for banning Thanksgiving gatherings, they'll be skewered if they touch Christmas.
They really shouldn't be that concerned, of course, as Destination Analysts has found that less than 30% of those altering Holiday travel plans are doing it because of government edicts. Over the past nine months, consumers have deduced that the government simply can't be trusted...which is a true shame for our future.
No, we are basing our decisions on fear and science. 68% say they are changing plans for their own safety. 62% are concerned that they might infect another. And, 56% are concerned about the safety of their family. Me thinks there is something unsettlingly backward about those three numbers...but that just may be me.
What ever your decision this Holiday season, Mask up (and Vax up, whenever you can)...and let's get back to traveling once again.
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