All of our lives have been vastly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. We’ve been working from home where possible, home schooling, and adjusting to new rules and regulations. For a while, business trips and travel generally were out of the question. But, as companies try to find new ways to navigate a world in pandemic, to make money, and to continue to grow, practices like business travel are starting to take place.
But that doesn’t mean that it’s normal. Like most other aspects of life, how we travel, whether for business or pleasure, has had to adapt. While you might want to delay leisure travel for a while longer, you don’t always have a choice when it comes to taking a business trip. So, it’s crucial that you find ways to travel safely, and to protect yourself as well as your colleagues and family when you return home.
Check Local Restrictions
Restrictions are different all over the world. Even if your trip is in this country, the new tier system means that neighbouring cities and counties can have different guidelines and regulations. Don’t just assume that the rules are the same as they are at home.
If your destination is in an area with high infection rates, consider postponing if at all possible. If not, at least make sure you read up on the restrictions in place, and that you understand your responsibilities. If you have any doubts, get in touch with the people hosting your meeting and your accommodation to ask for advice or clarification.
Find the Right Accommodation
When choosing accommodation for a business trip, you always need to take into account things like location in relation to the offices you are visiting and comfort. You might need good internet access, a place to work, and perhaps a conference room. Right now, you also need to know that the setting is taking all available precautions to protect visitors. Staying in a serviced apartment like those at https://dreamapartments.co.uk/serviced-apartments-liverpool can be the ideal solution.
Plan Travel Carefully
If you are travelling on any form of public transport, you will need to wear a face covering. You may also need your temperature taken, and perhaps even evidence of a negative COVID-19 test. Make sure you know what is expected of you before booking your ticket.
Protect Yourself and Others
It’s essential that you wear a face covering, wash or sanitise your hands regularly, and maintain appropriate social distancing at all times. Even when you are in meetings, you should stay two metres away from other people and avoid handshaking, sharing of pens, and the like.
Don’t Take Unnecessary Risks
If you have any doubts at all, or concerns over your health, cancel your trip. If you have already arrived and you develop symptoms of COVID-19, you must self-isolate and try to book a test as soon as possible. Don’t try to get home first.
Perhaps the best advice is to take care of yourself. Eat well, exercise, get lots of sleep and avoid stress, and you will have the best chance of both avoiding illness, and beating it if you become unwell. Then, use your common sense, and remain alert.
