Just when the nation seemed to open up in full swing for travel, COVID-19 made a blow again by firing its new variant Omicron. Since 2020, the pandemic had been a tough nut to crack for all those who love travelling. Even after things normalised to some extent, they had to travel with loads of restrictions. Then came the deadly second wave scaring the hell out of everyone. But as vaccinations began, several destinations started lifting restrictions for fully jabbed travellers. We were finally hoping that the virus would go away. But then, Omicron came into the scene. So, how are travel buffs reacting to the restrictions imposed by this new variant? Read on.
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Bookings Increased For Indian Hill Stations In January, WFH Is The Reason
Now, many people seem to have gotten used to the curbs that come on the way of travelling amid the pandemic. Earlier, many would get paranoid to get an RT-PCR test done a day or two before travelling. But now, travellers are ok with it. They are ready to do what needs to be done, but travel anyhow. Several reports have revealed that there has been a surge in bookings for destinations like Himachal, Uttarkhand and Kashmir in January, despite the Omicron fear.
In view of Omicron, many offices and organisations reverted to the work-from-home models. Thus, people are preferring to ditch the boredom of home and escape to mountains and beaches for staycations. A study has revealed that around 61% of Indians Were Busy With Workcations in 2021.
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To Ditch High Flight Fares, People Are Opting For Drivecations
Road trips and drivecations are also coming back in demand after the new restrictions. The primary reason behind these trips is the hike in airfares to destinations like Shimla, Manali, Gulmarg, Mussorie, Pondicherry, Coorg, Ooty and more. Secondly, these drivecations allow travellers to ditch public transport too.
Also, many travel agencies and organisers are advising tourists to keep an RT-PCR test ready and get double-vaccinated too, irrespective of state guidelines. As rules are changing every day now. Having said that, avoid travelling if you have symptoms or you have come in contact with someone with the virus.