The pandemic began on March 11, 2020, when the World Health Organization declared Covid-19 a global pandemic. Shortly after, U.S. states implemented shutdowns and introduced stringent travel restrictions. By the end of March, the European Union had prohibited nonessential travel, while cruise ships in U.S. waters faced a complete no-sail order. Travel ground to a halt for months.
Following the widespread availability of Covid vaccines in the spring of 2021, the travel industry began to recover, albeit under safety protocols such as mask mandates in airports and on flights. As restrictions eased, travelers eager to explore sought to reclaim lost adventures in a rush known as “revenge travel.” Notable hotspots including Venice, Iceland, and Barcelona quickly shifted from empty streets to overwhelmed tourist sites, prompting many destinations to implement restrictive measures to manage the influx.
Over the past five years, the landscape of travel has fluctuated drastically. We invite our readers to share their reflections on how these experiences have reshaped their travel preferences and behaviors. Your stories matter; we will carefully review every submission and may reach out for further discussion, ensuring your privacy throughout the process.