How to have a safe holiday after lockdown lifts
Coronavirus lockdown restrictions continue to lift in Belgium, and soon enough many people will be planning a weekend break. Stay safe and be prepared with these 7 simple steps, so you can relax once you’ve hit the road.
1: Plan ahead for your pet
Will you take your dog with you on your trip? Here are some handy tips on travelling with your dog. And if your pooch will be joining you in the car, here are some common car mistakes to avoid.
If your dog is staying at home, it’s important to plan your pet sitter early. This is because a little more preparation and time will be needed for a contactless meet and greet, and pick up and drop off.
Here is our guide to pet sitting during coronavirus, and we strongly recommend sticking with our safety recommendations, even though the lockdown is lifting.
2: Maintain social distancing
Just because we are flattening the curve in Belgium doesn’t mean that you can immediately return to pre-lockdown life on your holiday.
As such, be sure to adhere to social distancing, keeping at least 1.5 metres away from people in public, and avoiding crowded places. You might want to consider heading away from the busy city and visiting somewhere closer to nature instead.
Respect and follow the rules in businesses by standing on marked spots on the ground. And, needless to say, wash your hands frequently and don’t touch your face.
3: Plan ahead and be prepared
Before you hit the road, research the rules at your planned destinations, including national parks, monuments or other tourist locations.
Pack extra hand sanitiser, disinfectant wipes, gloves and masks in case you need to visit a public toilet, go into a shop or refill your car with petrol.
4: Support local businesses
The coronavirus lockdown has been tough on the local economy, and now you can do something to help! Support small local businesses offering takeaway food, or use online food ordering apps to try out the local cuisine.
Also, consider staycationing close to home rather than jumping on a short-haul flight if this can be avoided.
5: Plan a road trip
Hit the open road with a fun road trip! Using your car instead of public transport is a substantially safer choice, or better yet, consider renting a motorhome or caravan. Your holiday will be completely self-contained, and you can enjoy exploring the great outdoors.
6: Be careful when swimming
Keep your distance from other swimmers, even in the sea, and skip your swim if there are crowds of people. Exercise caution by keeping well away from other people on beaches.
7: Stay informed
It’s everyone’s job to stay in the know when it comes to coronavirus for the next phase to be successful.
Avoid any locations where there are flare-ups of the virus and if you feel at all unwell, stay at home. If you have any symptoms, contact your local doctor for next steps.
