While countries on the Amber list may see a green light in a couple of days, it is yet to be seen whether South Asians would dare to travel abroad, and what would happen to those who own holiday homes in countries that are now a part of the European Union. While the elderly are vaccinated, the vulnerability towards the virus can’t be ruled out.
Asian Voice’s ardent letter writer and reader, Bhupendra M. Gandhi told the newsweekly that he had his last holiday some six months before lockdown due to the Covid-19 epidemic. He said, “Our last holiday was to the beautiful island of Ibiza with my brother Vinay and his wife Gita who may join us now and then. Spain was our favourite destination, mainland and Balearic Islands in spring and Canary Islands in winter, a real tonic for the ageing, aching bodies and to get away from the dark, gloomy and wet winters!”
Mr Gandhi hasn’t given up on his zeal to travel. He said, “Being retired, we loved last-minute unbelievable bargains widely available on the internet, as well as from our travel agent who has looked after us well, being long-standing clients. So we keep our bags ready and paperwork handy to get away at short notice, three to four times a year!”
Sharing a hard-hitting truth, he also mentioned, “It seems our last holiday is a fading memory, perhaps it could be our last holiday, as due to age and health, the insurance premium would cost more than the holiday, as only a few companies are willing to insure over 75!”
Mr Gandhi added that he is wary of the fact that the virus has affected the BAME community more than indigenous people who are more willing to take the risk while we are more cautious, a waiting game.
