People are starting to travel again, even though things are far from settled. Canada’s border is still closed to us, although it may be reopening soon. Look up some foreign vacation packages, and you’ll find lots of COVID-related entry requirements.
The U.S. is currently denying entry to folks from the UK, the European Schengen area (some 26 countries), and others. Countries often reciprocate as to entry requirements – if you don’t let in our folks – then we’re not letting in yours. I’m not an expert on current travel conditions and restrictions, but it appears to be too early to be taking a trip out of the country. Who knows what new rules the virus might generate, right in the middle of your trip?
And don’t go anyplace where you’ll need a rental car. Costco Travel has a banner notice on their website stating that there is a rental car shortage in Hawaii, which is expected to continue through December. None of the packages I saw included a rental car – just a ride to and from the airport. “Let’s take the road to Hana – we can use an Uber.” I would think there’s lots of business for Uber and Lyft right now.
And if you are fortunate enough to get a car – you’ll pay through the nose. One fellow said his midsize was costing him $150 a day. That’s a big chunk of the travel budget. I remember renting a car whenever we took a road trip. Why put all those miles on the family truckster when you can drive a rental for $20 a day or so? And if it breaks down, they’ll give you a new one. Sweet. But that’s not economically feasible now, even if you could get a car. And how much are those expensive cars renting for, now that a Corolla is $150? It’s madness.
I believe the rental car shortage is related to the lack of new cars, so they are unable to replace their fleet. What a great time for the company to be selling all those rentals – except that they can’t get new ones. That’s the problem. Some used cars are apparently selling for as much as new ones – maybe more. I thought used pick-up trucks were priced were overpriced six years ago. I’d hate to be looking now. “Supply and demand” – “a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.”
“I have a car to sell. You need one. Pay me this much and it’s yours. If you don’t like it – buy a car from someone else – if you can find one.”
And folks are starting to get nervous about “breakthrough” infections. Now that millions are fully vaccinated, we’re starting to see some of them get infected, although apparently with minor or no symptoms. At least that’s what they’re saying, but it’s too early to know for certain. They’re not even sure if people with breakthrough infections are contagious. So, there is a real possibility that rules everywhere could change at any time. It might be a good idea to keep wearing a mask. Especially in crowds. They’re still required on planes.
The joy of travel. Countries won’t allow you to come. Fistfights on the plane between anti-maskers and flight attendants. No rental car when you arrive. Then the place goes into full lock-down the next day, and all of the sights are closed.
I think if I go anywhere soon, it’s going to be a road trip. I’ve known the person seated next to me for over 20 years, and I know she’s vaccinated. And if everything goes to hell in a hand basket, we can just turn around and go home.
Corky Pickering and his wife relocated from the Bay Area to Cottonwood in 2014. He recently retired from the federal government as an attorney advising law enforcement. He has been a rock and roll bass player and a Marine JAG. He can be reached at thecork6@gmail.com.
