Pay Now/Fly Later-10 Options “Nearby”

Travel News and Updates:

In light of the ongoing Coronavirus epidemic, multiple airlines are offering special deals with some where you can “Buy Now/Fly (Much) Later”:

1. United has special offers on their website: One way from $97.
2. Delta has anounced that their tickets which would expire in March or April can be extended and rebooked through the end of 2020.
3. Southwest is showing one way deals from $49 with “no cancel fees. No change fees. No questions asked”.
4. Cheapoair has “Book now, Pay Later”.
5. Spirit Airlines had a $42 one way fare from DC to Atlanta and one way Detroit to Las Vegas $22.

In addition, airlines and travel providers are offering reduced penalty or free cancellations.

Be aware:

1. Others are allowing for flexible rechedulings for up to the next 12 months. If not and you can’t get a refund, see if the airline will give you a credit. You will likely be able to use it within their alliance, such as a Delta credit with Air France.
2. If you have travel insurance, be sure to make a timely claim for any covered losses.
3. If you had a travel insurance policy that included cancellations, being a “no show” may not be covered. Remember to cancel if you need to.
4. Hotels are generally willing to reschedule or return deposits if you cancel within a stated period of time prior to your scheduled arrival.
5. If you plan to take advantage of new deals being offered, be sure to check the fine print on cancellation, nd take a look at “Cancel for Any Reason/CFAR” insurance.
6. In the current uncertainty, domestic travel appears to be the best bet starting again in the fall. See below a sampling of our US & Canadian suggestions.
7. My own plan is to vacation in the fall. This will give time for greater certainty as to cancellations, and prices go down as early as Sept.9.

10 Solo Travel Destinations in North America:

With daily updates on the current coronavirus epidemic, cancellations and immigration restrictions, it is a good time to plan a vacation closer to home once restrictions/staying at home requirements have been lifted . In every corner of the globe, there are a wide range of options from state and national parks to historic sites. While some famous museums and venues may be closed for now, others can still be viewed, at least in part, from the outside. Here in Washington, DC, I like to drive visitors at night past the White House, Capitol Hill, the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials and the Washington Monument.

Here are my top personal suggestions for North American residents for relatively close-by and bargain solo travel destinations.

More good news? Once travel restrictions have been lifted, for extra savings, you can drive or take the train (or even bus) saving costs and the waiting in lines when flying.

In addition, there is a wide range of options. You can start to choose a cultural travel package, adventure vacations for singles or even wildlife vacations. Surprised? You don’t need to go on a distant safari to see some fascinating wildlife in their natural or sometimes adopted habitat. Did you know that there are even Amazonian Capybaras adopted by US families in the Southwest? (If you have always longed for a unique pet, note that Capybaras need a swimming pool. You may be less than pleased when soaking wet, they then lounge on the living room sofa!)

North American “Foreign” Spots Popular with Foodies:

If you love international cuisine, culture and architecture, here are my top two North American picks:

Quebec City:

After 7-8 travels to this walled city, I see it as the perfect destination. It is relatively close-by except from the West Coast. From fine dining to neighborhood bistros, it feels like Europe but costs less! (See our blogs and packages on Quebec City and “Best Solo Travel Destinations: Quebec City” for more details.)

New Orleans:

I made my first trip to New Orleans as a child. I was especially fascinated by the spooky St. Louis Cemetery with above-ground tombs. My imagination made it a place to look over my shoulder for wandering ghosts. In more recent years, visiting family and friends there, I really appreciated its lengthy history, unique international feel and innumerable top restaurants. The latter can be pricey! I recommend trying out some bistros as well. Be sure to order the Crawfish Etoufee. (Don’t say Crayfish!) (For more information, see our updated blog on New Orleans.)

State and National Parks:

This is also perfect for those who want an active vacation. Hiking is available all-year except in dead of winter. White-water rafting is an option in many national parks in the West. If you want to find out why there is no such thing as an “American Buffalo”, you may see “Bison” in at least one of our picks below:

Yellowstone National Park

Grand Canyon

Yosemite

(From spas to national parks, see our blog on the US Southwest.)

Mt. Rushmore and the Black Hills of South Dakota-I especially loved the Old West feel of my hotel in Rapid City. One million visitors a year from the US and abroad visit Mt. Rushmore. Don’t forget to save at least a half-day or full day at nearby Crazy Horse Memorial. (Check out our blog on America’s Old West.)

San Francisco:

One of America’s most unique and enchanting cities. Whether you love the enchantment of riding cable cars or the 21st-century lure of nearby Silicon Valley, you will fall in love with San Francisco!

Seattle:

A little known fact? Oregon has the only year-round skiing in the US, Timberline. Not a skier? You can ride hermetically sealed in a gondola to the glacier near the mountain top!

The Deep South:

Charleston

Savannah

As a child of the Old South, I recommend both as ways to step back in time strolling past antebellum homes. Both being on the water, also offer special local cuisine. An added benefit? The prices, especially as the temperatures go up, tend to be especially attractive.