The journey of revenge sounds like the plot of a superhero movie.
The protagonist is seriously wronged by a powerful villain, directs his anger and bitterness into an elaborate plan for revenge, and an epic battle ensues in which justice will ultimately prevail. But instead of a superhero – an ordinary consumer, instead of a battle – travel plans, and instead of a powerful villain – a deadly global virus.
After many years of staying at home, people are eager to return to the world and travel. But for many, travel plans also have the added purpose of containing a virus that has claimed millions of lives, devastated the global economy, deepened political divisions and sparked a mental health crisis.
For a disease that brutally imposes social isolation, travel seems like the best way to get revenge.
What is a journey of revenge?
Revenge travel is a term for traveling as a way to catch up during a pandemic. There is no one specific definition or origin, but it usually refers to the frustration and anger people felt towards COVID-19 for canceling their plans and ruining their lives.
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The term originated as a prediction in 2020 about how people will react when it becomes safer to travel, but that prediction has completely come true. Travel is on the rise, according to a May 2022 survey by the American Society of Travel Consultants.
Despite economic pressure, people are spending more money on travel than on home improvements, technology and sports equipment (sorry, Peloton). The same report says that two-thirds of people plan to travel before the end of the year.
And the trend of revenge travel is not only limited to the US or some regions. 49 percent of survey participants “really want to travel the world without hesitation.” The main international destinations are Western Europe, followed by the Caribbean.
Domestically, 85 percent of Americans plan to travel this summer, and travel spending is close to pre-pandemic levels.
Why is revenge travel now gaining popularity?
Simply put, travel restrictions are being eased around the world. The CDC no longer requires masks on public transportation, and the US recently removed mandatory COVID-19 testing for incoming international travelers. Most countries in Europe have lifted all or most of their restrictions.
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While highly infectious strains of COVID are still rampant, experts say it’s safer to travel now if you take precautions.
Additional costs for revenge on Rhone
Along with the demand for travel, prices are also rising. With factors such as inflation, labor shortages and gas prices, it will cost you to book this revenge vacation. The above factors also affected the convenience of travel. Flight delays and cancellations are on the rise, and the sudden influx of travelers is causing long queues at airports and other slowdowns.
But what is the short wait at the airport compared to the pandemic-induced years of loneliness? If you’ve been through this, you might want to hold on a little longer. Revenge will only get worse with time.