Kayak Covid-19 Travel Resources Interviews
* Due to the user traveling internationally, this interview was conducted over email

Thomas

Tell me a little bit about yourself

I’m 25, born in Seattle and love to travel. I studied architecture and work in real estate.

In a typical year, how often do you travel internationally?

2-3 times

You've traveled internationally during the pandemic, could you tell me a little bit about that? (some things to think about: how you decided where to go, how you felt about it, why you went, where...really talk to me about anything)

I have traveled 3 times internally during the pandemic and each time faced a lot of uncertainty from time of booking until trip. I had to tailor my timing of trips based on the changing covid restrictions. The big challenge is getting comfortable to book when the trip might have to be canceled.

How has traveling internationally during covid differed from a normal year?

There is so much more paperwork and process that has to be followed. I have to get to the airport earlier and leave more time overall.

How did you decide where to travel?

Hard to say- based on the appeal that certain destinations hold for me (lifestyle). I also just got back from Dubai and that trip was motivated by desire to see expo 2020. Usually I seek out places with strong or interesting urban culture.

What factors played into deciding on your destinations?

Photos of the destination, reading travel blogs, ect. Availability and price of flights is also important.

Did the pandemic affect your travel choice?

Yes- it has greatly limited possible destinations.

Have you found any challenges in traveling internationally in the current climate?

Mostly related to the stress of paperwork and needing to test negative to travel.

Walk me though the steps in planning a trip start to finish.

Usually I book the flight first several months in advance when tickets are cheap. Then I wait a little to book hotels. I’m not a heavy travel planner. Usually I like to sit down at a cafe a few weeks before and make a list Of places and things I want to see. Then I put together rough itineraries on the fly.

Is there anything you wish you had known beforehand when traveling in covid?

No.

Do you feel that anything is limiting your ability to plan an amazing international trip?

Just lack of vacation time at work! Some destinations I want to visit still remain closed.

If there was a tool to help you plan in these times what would it have?

It would need to provide accurate and up to date info on travel restrictions. It would also be helpful if it had information about local covid rules on the ground. The travel info would need to be regularly updated.

Is there anything you're avoiding in travel due to the pandemic?

Personally, I don’t think so.

Why do you think our demographic is traveling right now and what are they looking for when doing so?

The desire to seek novel and engaging experiences has continued through the pandemic. Travel meets this need, especially when things locally are more shut down.

Any closing thoughts / things you think I should know?

Nope!