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Happy New Year! I’m sure we all agree that 2020 was a year like no other, a year that everyone is looking forward to putting behind us. I hope that you, your family and friends have weathered the past 10 months well, and have overcome any challenges or setbacks that came up along the way. As I look forward into 2021 I’m very optimistic and hopeful about the future. While I feel the next few months might not look too different than the past few, I do see many positive signs. While this holiday period had far less travelers than years past, many days there were more than 1 million people flying. While that is half the amount of travelers compared to last year, that’s still 1 million people a day, and overall reports of airports and air travel have been fairly positive. Of course, there is always the isolated challenge or inconvenience, but that has happened long before the pandemic had ever begun. People are getting accustomed to a new way to travel.
I did travel a few times in late 2020 and found the experience to be pleasant and enjoyable. Airports and airplanes were clean and, mostly, uncrowded. While the cleanliness will remain, the crowds will be back. Hotels were also clean, and while I did encounter a few challenging areas of service, it was sort of expected with greatly reduced staff and new processes and protocols for their staff to learn. But, all of that will be much smoother as time goes on.
As for 2021, space and rates should probably remain fairly low, in many places, for a few months. However, after Memorial Day and well into 2022 I don’t think this will be the case. For most of the year we’ll all be exploring our own backyard…resorts in Mexico, the Caribbean, Hawaii and the National Parks. To not be disappointed, make sure you plan ahead, especially since many deposit and cancellation policies have been greatly reduced.
For the foreseeable future, COVID tests may be a common pre-travel requirement, and soon we may also see the vaccination card more widely used. Regardless of what is required, later this year travel will become a national pastime, once again. We have upgraded our network and systems to be able to provide you all the information and insight you need to have a safe and enjoyable trip or vacation.
Thank you for your confidence and trust in allowing us to provide you the best in travel, benefits, amenities and service. I know that each and every person on our team is grateful and appreciates you, as well. We all wish you a very happy and healthy New Year and a wonderful 2021 filled with enjoyment, fun and, of course, plenty of travel and exploration.
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