by Lauren Kroger, Luxury Travel Advisor

Il dolce far niente: The art of doing nothing. It’s an Italian phrase we all mastered in 2020 and, if we have our way, it’s one we’ll quickly trade for buon giorno, come stai? once again. With the vaccine rollout fueling cautious optimism around the world, the Huffman Travel team is committed to making 2021 the year of truly extraordinary experiences and places.

It was with great care, intention, and enthusiasm that our team of advisors began to lead the way back into travel after a global pandemic changed everything early last year. We escaped into our own backyards, shopping our favorite boutiques in Palm Beach and learning to ranch like one does “Out West” in Montana and Wyoming. When borders began to open abroad, six of our advisors left for safari in Kenya, Tanzania, and Zambia. We prioritized wellness in Lanai and caught our breath on the white, sandy beaches of Mexico. However, most of what we learned about the restorative power of travel this year came from you – our loyal friends and clients.

There has been no other year in modern history that affected travel plans like 2020, and we thank you for weathering the storm with us. We see the light at the end of the tunnel, and are so happy to be working with you to plan soul-satisfying travel once again.

**BEST PRACTICES FOR TRAVELING NOW:**
Rely on our team to know which destinations and properties are excelling in our “new normal.”
A Harvard study showed that airplanes are as safe or safer than the grocery store, but it’s still worth flying privately or in First Class for additional space and peace of mind.
Consider properties that offer stand-alone accommodation.
Pack your masks and hand sanitizer. We’ll need those for a while.
Expect the unexpected – and yes, that includes room upgrades!
Get tested.

As border restrictions ease, let’s take a look at a few of the destinations you’ve told us you can’t wait to visit in 2021:

“We have Italy booked already.” – Priscilla & Keith B.

“Africa as a family.” – Paige B.

“St. Barths, to relax on the beach and enjoy the nightlife with girlfriends!” – Michelle K.

“We are headed to Paris and the French wine country. This was a surprise trip that was planned for our 30th anniversary last year, but it was canceled due to Covid-19… Although 2020 has been very rough, we’ve managed to stay in love and in good health and we are looking forward to finally seeing Paris and sampling French wines! Lisa Baker and Huffman Travel did an outstanding job in setting everything up and in helping us modify our arrangements when health concerns dictated. We’re looking forward to finally getting to the City of Lights!” – Kevin and Melissa H.

“We are very interested in Ecuador and the Galapagos.” – David and Anne M.

“Once restrictions are lifted, we’re headed on a Mediterranean cruise to Monte Carlo, Barcelona, and Florence with a few post-cruise days in Italy to celebrate two high school graduations… As with most things, a travel advisor’s true value isn't known until something goes wrong or a crisis occurs. Having Krista help us through our 2020 Covid-19 travel challenges amplified her already known value to us many times over.” – Joanne and Craig S.

Looking back, here are 21 destinations you loved in 2020, and that will shine even brighter in 2021: