Marilyn Foster is pictured with Collette Vacations sales representative Jay Fehan at one of the colorful fishing villages in Norway
I recently experienced that it is not all that daunting to travel in this strange time of Covid. Yes, there was certainly the need to wear a mask almost everywhere but in your hotel room; however, after two years of mask wearing, it’s become rather a habit.
I traveled with a group of 12 from our area to enjoy New York City in mid-December to experience the city during the holiday, and yes, while it is annoying to always have to show your identification and proof of vaccination status before entering any restaurant or attraction, you just have to set your mind that this precaution is for the good of all.
And, yes, the airlines are very strict about their mask policy allowing removal only to eat or drink. Since there are no longer domestic flights with food service, that meant eating a cookie was not enough time even to take a deep breath if you even wanted to. Pretzels give you time for an additional breath or two.
I did not see one unmasked person on the airplane or in the terminal when transferring between gates to catch another flight. While we hear the news stories about the one or two dissenters, the general traveling public follow the safety protocols.
New York City was not any less exciting because of all the strict Covid policies, and I wouldn’t have missed it for the world. I enjoyed the famous holiday performance by the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall and a Broadway show. When in the sightseeing bus, we all masked up respecting each other. Cleaning policies were in place with sanitation supplies always at the ready.
If you want to travel, currently, the major cities require we all comply with their policies, so they need not shut down the hospitality industry again. In many ways, our own state has been rather liberal and has mandated only wearing masks indoors.
Traveling during this era of Covid is not for everyone. And, for those unvaccinated, you don’t even have the choice of traveling on public transportation or checking into a hotel or even enjoying what a destination has to offer. Your vaccination card has become your passport to the world. I’ll admit, I don’t want to get Covid after having been so careful and doing the right thing these past two years, so I am extra careful.
My mask has become like the handkerchief of yore – always at the ready!
I’ll be going to Colorado this summer and thinking now about another trip in the fall. It’s good to get away and experience more than your backyard so you can better appreciate your backyard.
If you feel comfortable enough to travel and have been triple vaxed, don’t let the press stories dissuade you.
The Carson City Chamber is focusing on some amazing domestic sites that may never have crossed your mind. Everyone who has experienced South Dakota tell the stories about the fascinating scenery and wonderful national parks. The tour of the Midwest to include Chicago and a 2-night stay at the historic Mackinac Island Hotel is a winner for those who love Americana history. In the fall, there’s a great tour featuring New Orleans, Nashville, and Memphis – the most incredible music cities in the world! The annual holiday tour in December 2022 will be to Santa Fe, New Mexico and we’re making plans for April of 2023 to discover the Bluegrass Country and Smoky Mountains.
As more tours are planned, I will feature them. Right now, I still have New York on my mind and in a few more months, I will be “Rocky Mountain High” riding the famous trains in this beautiful state. I love everything about traveling and hope you will join me on a future tour.
Marilyn turns 93 today and still is planning trips. You may email her to wish her a Happy Birthday or to ask a question at MarilynFoster@carsoncitychamber.com.