Itching to Travel? Be Flexible.

Photos by Emma Highfill, Rose Wheat Photography

Richard Knoll, president of Cruise Holidays of Topeka, says domestic travel is very doable for clients who are comfortable taking the risk and managing the new protocols.

Travel agents like Richard Knoll, president of Cruise Holidays of Topeka, and Kimbra Henry, manager for the Kansas branch of Travel Leaders NY, are busier than ever. Except instead of booking vacations, they’re refunding or postponing them.

Dedicated to their customers, they’ve been working hard to make sure their travelers’ investments are protected, either through refunds or future travel credits. Yet, despite the mass cancellations, Henry does have clients planning to travel this summer.

“Some people are comfortable taking the risk and managing the new protocols (preregistering, using wipes, wearing masks), so they go ahead and go,” Henry said.

So, should you?

Both Henry and Knoll agree: It’s hard to say. “I don’t want to discourage folks who have an interest in travel. But if I’m asked if it’s safe, it’s not an easy answer,” Henry said.

“It depends where you want to go,” Knoll said. “We can get specific if we talk about a particular destination, cruise line or resort. But it’s all going to depend on what happens.”

While Europe is a no-go, traveling within the country could be doable. But don’t count on the traditional complimentary breakfast buffet or even the hotel swimming pool.

“Even if flights begin operating, certain amenities or resorts may not be available,” Henry said.