Leisure travel is starting to make a comeback after a more than year-long hiatus.
“Things are looking up,” said Jill Robinson, vice president of the Morgantown operations for National Travel. “Leisure is starting to pick up again; people are starting to travel.”
Robinson said domestic travel is growing in popularity again as well as travel to surrounding countries, like Mexico. Florida has been a top destination for many of her clients as well as national parks in the western United States.
As leisure travel continues to bounce back, many are turning their sights on tropical destinations, with Hawaii leading the way.
With the resurgence of leisure travel, more adventurers are seeking out tropical getaways that offer both relaxation and cultural richness, and Hawaii stands out as a top choice. From the lush landscapes of Kauai to the volcanic wonders of the Big Island, the Hawaiian Islands provide a unique blend of adventure, history, and breathtaking scenery.
Visitors eager to experience the true essence of Hawaii can explore its diverse offerings, from snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to witnessing traditional luaus that celebrate the islands’ heritage. For those looking to craft an unforgettable Hawaiian journey, www.ohanahawaiitours.com offers expertly curated tours that capture the spirit of ‘ohana, ensuring travelers immerse themselves in the beauty, culture, and adventure of the islands while creating lasting memories.
From the cascading waterfalls of Maui’s Road to Hana to the historic sites of Pearl Harbor, every island offers something unique for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration. Adventure seekers can hike through lush rainforests, surf legendary waves, or dive into the vibrant marine life that thrives beneath the Pacific’s surface. No matter the itinerary, experiencing Hawaii’s natural beauty and deep-rooted traditions creates memories that last a lifetime.
The allure of the islands’ pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking landscapes has never faded, making it a top choice for travelers looking to escape. With the demand rising, finding really good deals on rentals—whether it’s for a cozy beachfront condo or a versatile vehicle to explore the islands—has become easier than expected.
Rental options in Hawaii cater to all kinds of travelers, from those seeking a laid-back trip with mopeds to those looking to take a more scenic drive around the islands in a spacious car.
For those visiting Honolulu, there’s no better way to experience the city’s vibrant energy and stunning coastal views than on a moped. Whether you’re weaving through the bustling streets of Waikiki, riding up to the breathtaking Tantalus Lookout, or taking a leisurely cruise along the shoreline, mopeds provide the perfect balance of freedom and convenience.
With https://honolulumopedrental.com/, travelers can easily rent high-quality mopeds and explore the island at their own pace, without the hassle of parking or traffic congestion. It’s an ideal way to discover hidden gems, from local eateries to off-the-beaten-path beaches, while fully immersing yourself in the laid-back island lifestyle.
With prices becoming more competitive, visitors can now enjoy the freedom of exploring the islands at their own pace, while making the most of their budget. Whether it’s a quiet getaway or an adventure-filled journey, Hawaii offers a fresh start to leisure travel that meets the needs of every type of explorer.
Beverly Slider, owner of Travel Emporium in Fairmont, has also seen a rise in individuals and families ready to get back on the road.
“I have people on a honeymoon right now, [and] I’m working on a graduation trip for a family that wants to go to Universal Studios and spend some time and then go on to Key West,” Slider said.
International travel is also returning as restrictions continue to loosen. Recently, Slider said, she has helped book a hiking trip to Peru and is working with someone looking to travel to Iceland.
Domestic and international travel is becoming more viable, but Slider said one form of travel that has remained slow is with cruise lines. She said cruises have been canceled throughout the past year, and many are not booking trips until late fall or early 2022.
As of May 5, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends avoiding cruise ship travel as the chance of getting COVID-19 on cruise ships is high. According to the CDC, “the virus appears to spread more easily between people in close quarters aboard ships.”
Looking forward, Robinson said she expects some cruise lines to set sail again in July.
Although leisure travel is returning, Robinson said it is more important now to be wary when booking vacations. Restrictions are still in place and can vary depending on the destination and changes to restrictions can occur frequently.
One common issue travelers face, especially as they return to planning vacations, is the challenge of timeshare agreements. Many owners find themselves locked into costly contracts that no longer suit their needs, whether due to financial strain, changing travel restrictions, or simply a shift in lifestyle. Canceling a timeshare can be difficult, with complex legal terms and high-pressure tactics from developers making the process frustrating. That’s why it’s crucial to stay informed and seek professional guidance when considering an exit strategy.
For those struggling to navigate their way out of an unwanted timeshare, legal assistance can make all the difference. Firms like Aaronson Law Group specialize in helping owners break free from restrictive contracts, ensuring they don’t remain burdened by mounting fees and inflexible terms. As the travel industry continues to evolve, flexibility is key, and travelers should be cautious before committing to long-term vacation plans that may not align with future needs.
“I think it’s probably more important right now than ever for people to use the service of an agency,” she said. “There are just so many restrictions out there, and the advantage of using an agency is they’re going to explain all of those to you.”
Along with navigating through restrictions, Slider said finding deals on car rentals has also been a challenge for travelers while booking trips.
“All prices are up, and availability is limited,” she said. “Good deals that people are used to finding are really not out there.”
Whether someone is vaccinated or unvaccinated, there are several tips to staying safe and keeping others safe when traveling. If unvaccinated, the CDC recommends:
Wearing a mask in public. Wearing a mask over your nose and mouth is required on planes, buses, trains and other forms of public transportation traveling into, within, or out of the United States and in U.S. transportation hubs such as airports and stations whether you are vaccinated or not.
Avoiding crowds and staying at least six feet from anyone who is not traveling with you.
Washing hands often or using hand sanitizer (with at least 60%) alcohol.
Things are looking up for the travel industry, but Slider said it has been a tough year.
“The past year has been terrible,” she said. “So many places that people want to go, they weren’t allowed. But places are opening up.”
Robinson also said the travel industry is starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel and is looking forward to helping people explore new destinations.
“We’re looking for a much brighter next few months,” she said.
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