In light of the COVID19 virus, otherwise known as the corona virus, I feel like it’s time to address some disturbing trends I’m seeing within the travel world; and that is the lack of responsible travel of non-essential travelers. Yes, I know, the ban isn’t everywhere. And no, it is not illegal to travel. But it is incredibly irresponsible during this time.

We, as wanderers, rally against animal cruelty- refusing to give business to tour companies that don’t treat their animals correctly. We use metal straws so to reduce pollution in the ocean and save a sea turtle, and we do so many other things under the name of responsible tourism. So why now, when it comes down to cancelling your plans and possibly losing some money on the trip (which is less likely now that most companies within the travel industry are making efforts to help minimize this) or putting someone else at risk, do you choose to ignore the responsible part?

Today I read a thread on social media where two travelers were overheard talking about going to a place because “they didn’t think they could get it in the jungle.” I was horrified. These two women would have to pass through multiple airports to get to their destination running the risk of picking up the virus (with possibly no symptoms) and then could potentially pass it along to the locals at their final destination- and they didn’t seem to care. I honestly question if that even came to their minds- but I wasn’t there so there’s that.

And that isn’t the only story I’ve heard.

I’m seeing people arriving in other countries and refusing to self-quarantine at the countries request- and even coming back to their own country and not self-quarantining. Guys- STOP this!

Travelers all over are still being irresponsible even after a worldwide pandemic has been declared. I see posts such as “We made it before the travel ban!” or “Corona virus won’t stop me from traveling!” or the famous “I’m going to continue to live my best life and if I die, I die” and all I can think of is; how selfish can you really be? It’s not about you, it’s about others, and it’s about being a responsible traveler.

The world is shutting down temporarily, whole countries such as Italy, France, and others are on total lockdown with people in isolation and all businesses and tourists spots closed, and you want to still go to these places because your upset about having to cancel your plans? These countries are already overwhelmed and are running out of room for their own people to be taken care of.

Italy announced today that people over 80 will no longer be treated- which is essentially a death sentence. In Spain, there are reports that they are no longer treating people with pre-existing illnesses. These are people’s families and loved ones that have been essentially been given a death sentence should they contract the virus.

In the United States they have started shutting down most schools nationwide, with bars, clubs, and non-drive-thru restaurants being told to shut down in some states.

Disney shut down their parks in both California and Florida.

Beaches are closing in Florida.

Large gatherings, concerts, festivals, and all sporting events have been cancelled.

The national guard has been deployed in a handful of states to help transport medical staff and other essential personnel. Some states have already issued a curfew. They are asking people to stay home if they can. But they are not doing this to spread fear.

The reason these bans, both international and slowly but surely stateside have been put into place is to slow down the spread of the virus that is overwhelming medical staff and hospitals in other countries and for the U.S. – so that that same thing doesn’t happen here. It’s called flattening the curve and you can read more about that in this link.

As travelers, we are supposed to be doing our part to make the places we go a little better. Sadly, sometimes this means not traveling. But remember, the beautiful places we long to visit, as well as the amazing people, will still be there when this is over. This ban won’t last forever, and when it’s over those places will need your tourist dollars more than ever.

My fellow wanderers, please do you part right now and stay put wherever you are. I know some of you are stranded in other countries for one reason or another, but this is the time to stay in place so the world can have a fighting chance to get through this. Do you part and be responsible, and be safe.