The Pandemic Sparks My Travel Desires, Yet Fear Lingers

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As a true introvert, I often find comfort in solitude, yet I have a deep appreciation for connecting with others, discovering new cultures, and immersing myself in different perspectives. The idea of exploring new places has always filled me with excitement. However, the pandemic has intensified my longing to travel and prompted me to reflect on how I might make those dreams a reality.

Traveling has long been something I told myself I would do “when I had the time.” The pandemic, however, has made me realize how fleeting time can be; it has reinforced the idea that life is fragile and that each day is valuable. While I feel a strong desire to travel and learn about the world beyond my small New England town, I am also burdened by fears—fears that have emerged in the wake of COVID-19 and my experiences as a woman of color.

I remember my college days when I studied abroad in Mexico. Some locals would mockingly call out to me, urging me to “bañarse,” which translates to “go bathe,” suggesting that I wash off my dark skin. This painful experience has left me acutely aware of my identity while traveling, especially in unfamiliar places. I find myself hyper-aware of how others perceive me; those stares can be uncomfortable but also serve as a chance for connection.

Being an African American in the U.S. comes with its own challenges, and past encounters have made me cautious about traveling abroad. I can’t change my skin color or my identity as an American, but I can strive to educate others about the complexities of my experience. The pandemic also reignited my interest in tracing my ancestry, leading me to purchase a subscription to Ancestry.com. I want to uncover the paths of my ancestors and honor their journeys.

I consider myself a bit of a luxury traveler. I appreciate the comforts of running water, warm blankets, and a nice cup of coffee—elements that are often absent from camping trips, which have surged in popularity during the pandemic. While many are discovering the beauty of the great outdoors, I yearn for experiences beyond my own backyard, where I can immerse myself in diverse landscapes and cultures.

Since the shift to remote work due to COVID-19, I’ve realized I can work from anywhere in the world. This revelation has sparked my desire to travel, but I am also aware of the potential risks of contracting COVID-19 and the apprehensions that come with my racial identity when traveling abroad.

The pandemic has taught me the value of life and the importance of seizing opportunities—whether it’s strolling around my home or dreaming of vibrant marketplaces in Uganda. Perhaps my newfound stillness has allowed me to reflect on the legacy I wish to leave for my children, teaching them resilience through travel. Moreover, I understand that our world can benefit from our presence, especially as Americans and African Americans, to help heal the societal fractures that exist.

As we navigate life during the pandemic, at least I can look forward to fewer crowds when I finally decide to board a plane. I’ll embrace my fears and dreams simultaneously, wherever my travels may lead.

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In summary, the pandemic has ignited a longing to travel, coupled with fears stemming from both the ongoing health crisis and the complexities of my identity as a woman of color. As I navigate these emotions, I hold onto the hope of experiencing the world and sharing those experiences with my children.

Keyphrase: travel desires during pandemic

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