Publication ditorial – The new coronavirus pandemic represented a huge blow to the tourism industry during much of 2020 and 2021. Many traditional destinations closed their borders for a while and, for those who usually hit the road, long journeys and activities that were previously were commonplace became a potential risk. With the advancement of vaccination, however, we are starting to see a light at the end of the tunnel, and dreaming about traveling is once again on the horizon. Florida is already celebrating an advanced phase of reopening and is ready to welcome tourists post-pandemic.
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Thanks to good management of the pandemic, the state remained open most of the time and allowed the tourism and hospitality sector to resume activities safely, especially after the rapid mass vaccination carried out there.
According to the Visit Floridathe body responsible for promoting tourism in the region, masks are still a recommended item, as is maintaining social distancing, but in general the destination is already able to provide a feeling of normality, thanks to the many options for outdoor and contact activities with nature.
Since May 2020, Brazilian tourists can only enter the United States if they stay 15 days in another country, such as Mexico. The expectation is that, as vaccination progresses here throughout 2021, the pandemic will soon be controlled and the borders can be reopened safely.
Florida is one of the most visited international destinations by Brazilians, and promises to continue like this post-pandemic. According to Visit Florida, they are now open and ready to welcome Brazilians as soon as possible.
Post-pandemic travel: How is Florida preparing?
Consumer confidence will be a key component for travel in the coming years. This will be even more evident when traveling internationally. However, the expectation is that, with safety protocols being constantly reinforced and becoming even more efficient and with the expansion of vaccine distribution around the world, tourists will once again feel comfortable crossing borders.
Another important factor will be pent-up demand. After months of living with restrictions and countless plans postponed, it is to be expected that people will return to the road as soon as it is safe. It is already possible to notice a movement of people who missed their vacations last year and moved to the end of the year or even 2022. They are extending the duration of their trips or purchasing upgrades in accommodation.
Furthermore, it is already possible to notice a change in the travel profile. People are more willing to explore the destination beyond the most famous activities, spending more time on the region’s beautiful beaches and visiting Florida’s natural parks, where they can connect with nature and enjoy large green spaces free from crowds. .
Everything indicates that post-pandemic travel will also be a time to reunite with the people we no longer see. Multi-generational groups, made up of members of the same family, will take advantage of the reopening for special holidays to catch up and celebrate everything we’ve had to postpone in recent months.
Recommendations and protocols against Covid-19 for tourism in Florida
The recommendations and protocols against Covid-19 in Florida are no different from those already adopted in other parts of the world. It is necessary to avoid closed and crowded places, adopting a distance of one and a half meters from other people. The use of masks is still highly recommended, as is correct hand hygiene.
You can stay up to date on the latest recommendations and protocols on VF’s COVID Travel Safety Info page, the CDC website and the Florida Department of Health website.
Regarding the specific protocols for parks and other attractions, you need to visit the official website of each of them. You can find some here:
Florida as a nature destination
Tourist safety will remain a top priority in Florida. With more people looking for outdoor experiences, the destination is investing in campaigns to promote these activities, of which there are countless!
The state has very diverse landscapes and ecosystems, which provides a huge variety of activities that can be enjoyed all year round, safely and socially distanced. And don’t think it’s just for those who like intense or adventure sports. There are options for the most varied levels of comfort, ranging from a refreshing dip in the region’s numerous crystal-clear springs, spending the afternoon at a trailer camp or pleasant walks through natural parks.
Get inspired with some outdoor adventure ideas in Florida
Swim with manatees in the Crystal River
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Zipline over the Ocala Canyons
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Discover a high-end camp in Central Florida
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Kayak through a bioluminescent lagoon on the Space Coast
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Snorkel in Dry Tortugas National Park
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Take an air boat ride in the Everglades
Kayak, canoe or tube in one of the springs
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Destin, Florida: What to Do in the Emerald Coast’s Most Popular Destination
