An Open Letter to Travelers Amidst a Pandemic

Dear Traveler,

It is April 2021 and I know you’ve been waiting over a year to travel. I know that 2020 was the year you pressed pause on your big plans and gave space for your wanderlust to grow. I know you spent a full year trying to find a clear path during the the most uncertain times we’ve faced in our lifetimes. I know it was not just one pandemic that broke your heart, but several. I know you feel that now and today, it’s your turn to emerge from your home and take back lost time.

I know you’re intelligent, that you’ll take precautions. I know that you value your health and the wellbeing of others. I know that you view traveling the world as a way to immerse yourself in culture that is unfamiliar, culture that may find a forever home in your heart. I know that you believe if everyone took responsibility for their health, we would all be okay.

I believe I know all of this because it’s been my lived experience, too. I’m here to help you be a well-prepared traveler so health and safety are a given for you while you travel abroad and so the health and safety of others around you are strengthened by your presence. I believe that together, we can work to improve the quality of our travels and the quality of life for the people and land that we travel to.

As you finalize your travel plans, I urge you to take action to keep yourself healthy and safe. As you explore someplace new (or someplace familiar), I encourage you to connect with the people and land to see how you can leave a positive impact. Though we may be citizens of one country, we make up the humanity of the world. Let’s be well and do good.

Cheers to Your Health & Happiness,

Dr. Mona Ligvani, PharmD, APh