Advisor Insider: Jamaica

October 19, 2021 ctn_admin

In our new Canadian Travel News series, travel experts share their reviews of the destinations they’ve visited as we emerge from COVID. Follow for the latest resort updates, best beaches and a first-hand look in the destinations you want to visit.

Here is Katherine Poon of Fun in Paradise Travel’s experience travelling to Jamaica recently.

It was with mixed emotions when I first received the Agent Familiarization Trip Invitation from the Couples Resorts Jamaica Director of Sales, Desiree Rolle in July 2021. As a Jamaica Specialist, I always seek out opportunity to sharpen my knowledge and sales skills and under normal circumstance, I should have been excited about this opportunity, right?

Just like many of you, while I have been diligently keeping up with all the current travel requirements and the ever-evolving changes, it does not mean that I don’t have any fears or hesitancies about travelling- after all, I am human. Doubts and fears continued to linger over me for months – What if my Antigen test was positive prior to leaving? What if my Travel Authorization Form was not approved? What if I ended up testing positive on return and had to be quarantined? What if I ended up being sick with COVID-19 and had to be hospitalized in destination? I went back and forth with my decision for a few months and honestly did not think I would ever hop on the plane to Montego Bay in September.

When I was in doubt, I am grateful that Desiree had not given up hope on me, instead, she was by my side all the way reassuring and supporting me as to what I deemed to be the best decision. When I had finally packed my suitcase and was on my way to Toronto- that is when I realize all will be worth it! Ya Mon!

What have I learned from this journey?

Be flexible, adaptable and have an open mindset – post-pandemic travel is not the same
Be organized – we have researched where to get our Antigen test done and have a black-up plan in case the test site is unable to test last minute. Have all the required documents organized
Be informed – don’t just go by information floating around on social media, however, try to obtain the information from reliable sources/sites and/or a travel advisor
Be educated – best to work with a knowledgeable and well-traveled advisor so that you’re educated, prepared, and traveled with peace of mind
Be patient – most resorts/airport/restaurants are understaffed, and services could be lacking or occasionally slower than normal
Be forgiving & kind – Everyone is trying their best to perform after 18 months of Pandemic, be grateful that they showed up to serve you
Be ready – be sure to get to the airport at least 3 hours prior to departure
Be prepared – In case you’re unable to return home as scheduled
Be covered – be sure to purchase Travel Insurance including Covid related and Quarantine insurance

Is it safe to travel during the Pandemic?

I have traveled on several occasions to various destinations since the Pandemic began. Besides the minor inconveniences associated with testing, additional paperwork, and extra screening processes, I felt totally safe to travel. Social distancing and mask wearing were observed. Airlines, resorts, restaurants, transfers, and excursion operators have been diligently following the Covid-19 protocol in keeping us safe and well.

On my recent trip to Jamaica, I was able to stay connected with my clients remotely under the shade by the beach. Who would say “NO” to this office setting?

The anxiety to travel is not going to go away any time soon and readiness to travel varies between individuals. If you are comfortable to travel during our current situation, I would strongly suggest you work with a knowledgeable and caring Travel Advisor for his/her guidance to navigate the Pandemic travel protocols together. It would be the best investment that you would never regret.

An elderly solo traveler, who is a client of mine was feeling incredibly apprehensive and overwhelmed about her trip to Kenya. After much discussion and guidance, this is what she has written to me: “Katherine, just to let you know that I am glad to have you as my amazing resource expert. I just booked my PCR through life labs who do it through Shoppers on Jalna. I now wait for them to connect with me to book test. Once again, thanks for keeping me informed of all the little bits and pieces that need to be done.”

Are you looking to travel again? Fun in Paradise Travel would be delighted to hear from you and guide you all the way from consultation to coordinating to booking. Please reach us at: https://www.funinparadisetravel.com/ or [email protected] or by phone at 519-902-0829.