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Jul 22, 2020 • 4 min read
Is it safe and sensible to travel right now? Journalist John Walton was considering an overnight trip to see family but ultimately decided against it. This article shares his reflections on non-essential travel during these uncertain times.
The COVID-19 lockdown has impacted everyone, particularly those who live far from family. Walton resides in central France, while his parents live near the Welsh border in western England. Typically, he would visit them frequently, hopping on a plane or having them travel by car. However, since December, the family has been unable to reunite, which has been challenging.
Despite the lingering presence of the novel coronavirus, Walton felt that such travel was still unwise, even for meaningful occasions.
Alternatives to Air Travel
Although Walton considered making the trip this month, he maintained that air travel poses a considerable risk. However, he is grateful for other travel options. With access to a car and fuel, he could have taken the Eurotunnel car train, Le Shuttle, a safer low-contact travel method. The French section of the journey is via excellent autoroutes, while the UK side leaves much to be desired.
Working from his parents’ home would not have been a problem, even with their slower internet connection. As many people are realizing, spending time with family can be facilitated through technology, yet this is not the same as physically being together.
Ultimately, despite these options, Walton chose to forgo travel.
Uncertain Risks
A significant factor in Walton’s decision was the concern for his safety and that of his parents, who, while active, fall into a higher risk age category. A seven-hour drive to the tunnel, plus another four hours on the UK side, would inevitably require overnight stays and several breaks along the way.
Staying in hotels, despite enhanced disinfection protocols, introduces an additional layer of risk due to the nature of short overnight accommodations. In France, there are outdoor areas for comfort breaks; however, many UK service stations are confined indoors, increasing the risk of virus transmission.
Another pivotal factor was the variable handling of the pandemic in the UK compared to France, which has raised concerns particularly due to increased infection rates in areas Walton would need to travel through.
Potential Quarantine
Walton also expressed concern about the possibility of being stranded in the UK due to sudden quarantine measures that are often thought to be poorly considered. The risk of not being able to return home loomed large in his mind, contributing to his decision against traveling.
In reflection, he respects others’ choices regarding travel, acknowledging that individual situations vary widely, and we must each make decisions that prioritize our health and that of our loved ones.
Although disappointed by this situation, Walton and his family are utilizing technology to stay connected through video calls and family chats, looking forward to the prospect of visiting if circumstances improve.
Meta Description:
Explore John Walton’s reflections about the risks of traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the challenges of distance, safety, and alternative travel options.
