Travel signifies progress. Whether that is in the form of personal growth and fulfillment, new business opportunities, or any other driver. And the human spirit’s natural desire to further ourselves through new experiences will not be dominated by COVID-19 or any other setback we may face.
Francisco Pérez-Lozao Rüter, President of Amedues IT Group
Now that travel restrictions are slowly lifting within Botswana borders, citizens and residents are now looking for places to travel locally. For relaxation and to revive the economy and tourism industry. One may wonder though, what does travel looks like during COVID-19?
Well, safety remains the biggest motivator for people’s choices of how, where to travel and what to do for a holiday. Here are a few things to consider when planning your next trip:
Type of trip
Most travelers right now would opt to self-drive than other forms of travel. With the current fuel shortages, destinations that are closer to home may be more desirable.
Trips are also more likely to be dominated by an escape to nature and the outdoors. Very much influenced by the hangover from prolonged lockdown and extreme social distancing.
Now is the perfect time to experience Botswana’s world-renowned safari and other outdoor experiences.
Duration
Many people will prefer excursions and weekend getaways in smaller groups over long-stay. Preferably with family and friends.
Price
Because incomes have been affected by the pandemic, and it’s still not known when it will actually be over, the need to travel will be balanced by the importance of careful spending. Many service providers, tour operators, and accommodation providers have reduced their prices by up to 50% and even 70%. To attract local travel.
Flexibility Of Travel During COVID-19
Because things could change at any time, customers don’t want to find themselves stuck in contracts that they can’t get out of. When making a reservation, it’s advisable to ask about the terms & conditions for adjustments for COVID-19 times.
Destination Management Companies (DMCs), now offer flexible promotional packages. City and Safari have the #iphukisephefo #takeabreak collection of short trips. Easily accessible by road around Botswana. These short trips are packaged for families, couples and small incentive corporate groups.
The company’s Managing Director, Mrs. Tshepiso Mganga, says their main goal is to get local clients in the spirit of travel. Taking frequent short breaks in Botswana and surrounding areas.
The company mostly uses small-sized properties that allow very flexible bookings. She says, “we go with suppliers that have eased booking terms and conditions. In consideration of the uncertainty of travel due to Corona.”
Extra regulations have been created to manage the COVID-19 pandemic. Travelers will have to jump over new hoops. Experiences will not be the same as before; new habits will be formed and adapting to the new normal continues. What the industry needs is our patience and support to put the joy back into traveling.
Contactless Experience
Guests are now more likely to choose service providers that incorporate technology to deliver a memorable experience. Some businesses have since introduced contactless services.
Little interaction with other guests is also what travelers are now looking for. Botswana Tourism Organisation has put together the Tourism Industry COVID-19 Guidelines, to help travelers know what to look for, and ask for. From reception and arrival, shared spaces, bedrooms, food, and refreshments. These are the new hygiene and safety standards.
Family Gems recently did a roundup of discounts on luxury travel around the Okavango. Here are some more discounted excursions closer to Gaborone.
African Casa
Enjoy this country club setting nestled behind Ruretse Hill, just outside Phakalane. Equipped with tennis courts, campsite, and cottage tents. The facilities are clean and cozy, safe, spacious, and quiet with a feel of nature. There’s a kid’s play area, DSTV, and free Wi-Fi. For activities, they have a pool table, table tennis, board games, and books that will keep you and your family well entertained.
Phone: (+267) 72 113 854
WhatApp: (+267) 76 395 158
Email: [email protected]
Happy Soul Adventures
Happy Soul Adventures own and run Ziwaphe Guest House in Mogobane village, 25 km outside of Gaborone. This village life experience is what your soul needs to unwind.
Activities include a picnic overlooking the beautiful Mogobane dam, early morning, or late afternoon cycling around the village. Massages out in the bush surrounded by nature. Their famous creative lessons include relaxing pottery to tapestry.
Accommodation options include rooms, caravans or vans for family or solo trips.
Phone: (+267) 71 891 937
Email: [email protected]
Mokolodi Nature Reserve
This place offers a wide array of unique nature and wildlife experiences. Largely known for their game activities, this extends to a variety of accommodation options. To suit every nature lover’s comfort.
The self-catering bush chalets are comfortable and overlook a waterhole in the heart of the Reserve.
On the other side of the reserve are the campsites suited for the more adventurous traveler. For an authentic bush-experience in the Reserve. These five exclusive campsites accommodate a maximum of eight guests per campsite and privacy is well guaranteed.
The last self-catering camp is named after the famous author, Alexander McCall Smith. The thatched huts resemble a traditional Tswana dwelling. Found south of the Reserve and offers an up-close game viewing and a unique, rustic African experience.
Phone: (+267) 316 1955/6 or (+267) 71 321 021
Email: [email protected]
- Travel During COVID-19: What You Need To Know - 22/07/2020
1 Comment
Thanks Eva!