From cruises to campsites, summer is already almost fully booked
By Harriet Baskas
A growing wave of relaxed restrictions, along with an increasing number of vaccinated Americans, is leading to a surge in “vaxications” and other trips, after a year of pandemic-induced lockdowns.
Mothballed restaurants, hotels and attractions, canceled cruise seasons and record low airline passenger traffic are making way for a brisk uptick in travel plans, with around half of Americans set to take a trip in the next three months, according to an analysis from the U.S. Travel Association.
“People have an 18-month supply of events, visits and vacations to catch up on,” said Michael McCall, professor of hospitality business at Michigan State University.
“There is a substantial pent-up desire to travel. Families have not hugged or spent time together.”
Travel experts say anyone wishing to take a trip should be exercising caution, especially in light of the CDC's recommendation that travel be avoided where possible, even for passengers who are vaccinated.
