Enjoy your Travels, but don’t forget your feathered friends.
Archive for category: Uncategorized
Braving the 2020 Pandemic into 2021
The year 2020 has been rough
We’ve had to prove that we are tough
We must remember those we have lost
While still enjoying the winter frost.
Our self-restraint has been put to the test
Wearing masks for everyone’s health is best
Social distancing is still a must
Large gatherings are still a bust
We have found new ways to socialize
proving that we are both strong and wise
The pandemic is hard to contain
So, vigilant we must remain
Vaccination, masks, and distancing are our best chance
To keep the virus from its advance
Even with a vaccine, containment is hard
It will be a while before we let up our guard
Thank you to all our health care personnel
And researchers for their dedication and a job done well
By Demetra
When Life Gets Stressful, Don’t Worry be Happy
In these times, long-distance travel and social distancing have limited our vacations as well as daily activities. Life gets stressful and sadness and anxiety creep in. You are not alone; these are trying times and feeling overwhelmed is normal. However, getting outdoors will make you feel better; a brisk walk, run, bike ride, or stroll through a park will help you feel rejuvenated. I love looking for new outdoor spaces to explore.
I check State, Federal, Park, and town listings for places near me. I recommend searching for places in your area.
Or in Massachusetts go to: https://www.stateparks.com/massachusetts_parks_and_recreation_destinations.html for a complete list.
I have discovered and explored many amazing places in Massachusetts and New Hampshire from these listings. You too will be amazed at how many places await your exploration.
Here is one of my favorites.
Halibut Point State Park in Rockport MA.
There are amazing views of a granite quarry where you can walk around and enjoy the views and learn about the history of Cape Ann’s granite industry. If you follow longer trails and pathways to the ocean, you will be rewarded with even more spectacular views and sounds of the ocean waves on the wide-open rocks. Be warned, it can get very busy on a beautiful weekend. The first time we attempted to visit the parking lot and nearby streets were full. However, our second attempt was early Monday morning and there were only two other cars in the parking lot. What a treat. 
When it is time to travel, don’t forget your Demi Hugger.
I wish you good health and many happy adventures.
Love
Demi
Travel Safely During the Pandemic
Many of us will travel for business, vacation, or to visit family. Yes, visiting family far away is hopefully considered a pleasurable vacation. My point is many of us will travel and we need to be as safe as possible.
Last week my husband and I spent the week in Vermont. It is the first time I have stayed anyplace but my home in the last 5 months. That’s right I have not even gone to the market. We were seriously considering forfeiting our traditional week at the Trapp Family lodge. I am sure glad we decided to go.
This is how we made it work. First, we both got tested for COVID 19 as required by the state of Vermont. After receiving our negative results, it was time to quickly plan. OK, I admit it, I had already started packing.
As a family, we decided that only people living in our house should go. It was a difficult decision which disappointed our extended family. I truly missed spending time with my children and great-nephews. As an asthmatic and over 62, my children are very protective, and would not come, even if invited.
We used allergy covers for the couch and bedding, disinfectant sprays alcohol and wipes on all surfaces as well as switches, remote controls, and bathroom. We even put all the dishes through the high-temperature cycle in the dishwasher. After setting up we were comfortable for the week. Wait I meant to say 6 days, the lodge was leaving all units, after a thorough cleaning, empty for a day between guests.
We enjoyed outdoor activities of bike riding, kayaking, picnicking, and hiking. No eating out. We didn’t even spend time at the beautiful outdoor pool because it was too crowded. Obviously, we were very cautious and washed or disinfected our hands frequently and wore masks. Since this was a driving trip, we only made one stop at a large rest area. Wearing masks and hand washing was essential. I admit I was nervous, but the rest area was so clean, and I went through very quickly.
Taking the above precautions made us feel safe while enjoying a great vacation together.
If you are traveling by plane or public transportation here is an article with some great tips on how to travel safely during the pandemic.
https://traveler.marriott.com/tips-and-trends/germ-prevention-while-traveling/
I wish you many happy, healthy, and safe travels.
demihugger.com
How the Corona Virus is Changing Travel
I do not know exactly what the future of travel will be. I know it will be different than a year ago. We know that safety precautions should be taken when traveling. Begin with social distancing as much as possible, wear a mask to protect yourself and others, frequent handwashing, and don’t touch your face.
Plan ahead to make sure your destination is open. Many attractions are still closed. If you are eating out (hopefully no buffets), going to museums, landmarks, or even outdoor zoos you need to maintain a healthy distance from others, wash your hands often, don’t touch your face, and always wear a mask in public.
Many States are requiring you quarantine for 14 days after entering. I’m not sure about you but I don’t want to go all the way to Hawaii to spend two weeks in a hotel room. Even if you are traveling by car, make sure to check the CDC guidelines, https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html, and also each state’s updated regulations.
Air, bus, and train travel will be very different and difficult to keep a healthy distance from others. Make sure to confirm your travel arrangements since many are cutting back and/or canceling trips. Some will be running at half capacity which could mean higher prices. Do your best to follow all health recommendations.
If you are interested in European travel, https://www.traveloffpath.com/countries-that-have-reopened-for-american-tourists/ is a good site to check out.
We wish you all a safe and healthy summer. Together we will get through this difficult time.