The New Normal

Living in a pandemic has certainly shuffled our lives upside down. While it can be frustrating either being locked up or taking extreme safety measures, it is very vital we do so. Continuing about our daily lives with the ‘new rules’ has taken a new toll on us. Travelling, for instance.

While we can not greet anyone with big smiles and hugs, exchange a hand shake or share the same supplies, we need not give up our love for traveling entirely.

Should I travel during a pandemic? How can I keep myself safe at all times? Are places open? Are there any travel restrictions?

These are some of the questions most of us have. Therefore, here are some tips, do’s and don’ts you can keep in mind before you embark on your adventure!

What to do -

Before planning your trip, check for travel restrictions at the places you are visiting. You can simply do this by visiting licensed travel guides. Websites such as Sri Lanka Tourism Alliance are the ideal sites you can get all the information from. Sri Lanka Tourism Alliance is a licensed travel guide formed by several key operators in Sri Lanka’s private tourism sector. From the latest COVID-19 news and updates to insights about travel restrictions, places which are open to visit to opinion pieces by industry veterans, they have sources to all the information you need. This site is your one stop platform for all travel inquiries.

Planning your trip can be a bit overwhelming, there are so many places you want to visit in a limited time. If you schedule it incorrectly, your journey might be incomplete. Authentic websites such as, Love Sri Lanka come in very handy here. They have numerous articles about how to plan a trip, best ways to pack your travel bag, popular destinations you can visit, famous places and sites in each destination you shouldn't miss out on, local experiences, the cuisine and so much more! Plan your adventure accordingly, in order to avoid missing out on all the fun.

When it comes to packing, make sure you are supplied with plenty of fresh masks, mini sanitisers to carry around easily, gloves to wear at the airport and other crowded places and a face shield. Personal sanitation and hygiene are essential and cannot be stressed enough. Don’t forget to sanitize your hands every time you touch something, whether it’s a pen or a door.

Strengthen your immune system. Make sure you take plenty of vitamins and drink herbal drinks to keep your immune system healthy and strong. ‘Kothamali’ is a popular drink in Sri Lankan which is consumed by many. It is known to fight infections and protect your body.

What to avoid -

Avoid travel to places experiencing major outbreaks of COVID-19

Avoid large gatherings and crowded public spaces whenever possible

Avoid touching or petting animals.

Avoid using utensils provided and carry your own cutlery, bottles and drinks whenever possible. By doing this, you can even avoid standing in queues.

Avoid using public transportation and utilities.

Avoid touching your face. Keep wipes and hand sanitizers on you at all times.

Avoid exchanging supplies with others. For instance, keep an exact change of money with you.

Avoid close contact with people. Stay at least six feet away from others. You can even choose an off peak day to travel, when you know public rest stops won’t be that crowded. For instance, don’t start your journey on a Friday.

Avoid sharing a ride with many others. Socially distance yourself as much as possible.

Hope you have a safe and exciting journey!