Commentary: While everyone flies off for the holidays, I’m taking it slow and staying in Singapore
INGAPORE: There’s not a day that goes by when I don’t see in my social media feed photos of friends touring theme parks in Japan, slurping jjigae in South Korea and relaxing in Bali resorts.
With the easing of COVID-19 restrictions and border controls in several countries, it’s no surprise that many are heading out of Singapore, even if it’s just for a day trip to neighbouring Malaysia. It’s clear that many of us miss travelling, having been cooped up in Singapore the past few years.
My family and I are no exception. We miss travelling too, having been used to holidaying overseas during the June and December school holidays.
However, despite the allure of good food in our neighbouring countries or the snowscapes of Europe, we have chosen to stay in Singapore this holiday.
LINGERING COVID-19 CONCERNS
There are a few reasons why we have decided to give travelling a miss this year. One of them is we don’t feel safe to do so yet, at least not during this holiday season. he lifting of COVID-19 restrictions in many countries has allowed life to return to normal in these countries but it doesn’t mean that COVID-19 is no longer a concern. Popular tourist destinations including Australia, Japan, South Korea, France and Germany, have recently warned of new COVID-19 waves or are experiencing rising cases. The dry and cold conditions of winter season tend to aid the spread of respiratory illness including COVID-19. The World Health Organization highlighted in December the early start of the flu season in the European region while noting COVID-19 is still a threat. Travelling during this period carries its risk. Aircraft passengers are up to three times more likely to catch COVID-19 during a flight due to the highly transmissible Omicron variant, said Dr David Powell, physician and medical adviser to the International Air Transport Association, late last year. No doubt one can also catch COVID-19 in Singapore. Singapore Health Minister Ong Ye Kung said earlier in December that more COVID-19 infections are expected amid an increase in year-end travel and more people enjoying the festivities.
Source: CNA
