With just seven days until our planned trip to Kauai, Hawaii, the governor of the state has changed the rules to a mandatory 14-day quarantine. Everything suddenly changes as we digest this new information. Is it preferable to sit and stare at an oceanfront view or continue to look at the same boring rooftops in front of me now? My wife and her daughters will make a decision today that will probably involve canceling our flights, hotel, and other reservations. We had several restaurants booked, a catamaran tour, and a hike. These would all certainly not be possible – even the pool will probably be closed. 

A discussion took place and the consensus was to cancel. Our next travel is scheduled for mid-January, prior to our permanent move to Florida. This means another two months of apartment isolation and gray skies. Also, because we used booking points, the only money we’ll really save is on dog sitting, dining out, Covid tests, airport parking, car rental, occupancy tax, tips and excursions. I feel sorry for all the small business owners and resort staffers for their loss of wages. It will not be a Merry Christmas in Hawaii. Our restaurant and shop owners here in Portland are feeling the same crunch. For us, it’s home for the holidays!

We probably shouldn’t be traveling at anyways with all the money we’re putting into our new house, not to mention health concerns. The virus is making that easy! Here we are in the prime years of our retirement without the ability to leave the mainland. Two pending Viking European cruises scheduled and paid-for in 2021 are also in jeopardy. At least, we’re staying healthy. The travel industry is dying. A vaccine is imperative! This Kauainteen is just the latest retirement set back!