4 Summer Escapes from COVID House Arrest

@tomsommers1

As cities crack open from pandemic spring, I still see headlines for how to enjoy the inside of your house or to stay in your yard this summer. If I read one more indoor idea, I'll scream! We're not out of the COVID woods (with 21 states showing spikes), so the often-washed mask is close by. Yet these headlines don't mention the safe, mental and physical-health options just beyond your front yard.

We have the freedom the headlines forget to cite, further fueling pandemic fears. We're free to choose when, where and for how long to leave our homes (while wearing a mask and staying at a social distance).

Reminding ourselves that we have this freedom, helps to grasp control over the pandemic. And, proactive decisions make us feel happier and more confident with the uncertainty. Feeling a situation is beyond our control is when we get snippy and emotional with people and pets (damn the spilled water bowl, Sparky).

I'm here to shout, we have some control over COVID.

There's no COVID cop inside your front door, so inhale your freedom, put on your mask, and walk down your sidewalk for time away.

Escapes for Everyone

There are fun, unique and COVID-safe ways to leave your house this summer and get new perspective and appreciation for your surroundings.

Once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to see the world in relative quiet and fewer people.

Your Neighborhoods

This summer rediscover the surprises within your own city, neighborhood.

A joy of living in DC is experiencing the distinct, cultural nuances of each neighborhood. Capitol Hill and Georgetown aren't the same as AdamsMorgan or NoMa. A pandemic silver lining has been the quiet that's been so loud, without our annual 20+ million tourists. The no-tourists has helped me to find the District's local gems. No matter where you live, you too can see the world differently.

After walking and biking hundreds of miles over three months, I've discovered new green spaces, pocket-sized parks, dazzling murals on building walls, and nearing-completion of huge housing and multi-use complexes; Victorian houses abutting 21st-century architecture; restaurants I'd only heard of and didn't know the locations; and park benches on the National Mall that are typically so crowded, I'd not spotted them earlier.

As you're strolling or driving through your neighborhood, city this summer, stop. Take note of that historical marker to read the story; jot the name of a restaurant and visit when it reopens; spend more time in that new park to absorb the neighborhood vibe. Getting out and about for even a few hours, will change your outlook.

The Parklands

There may be a new or untried county, state or national park with walking trails near you. Get in your car, with or without dangling bicycle wheels, and discover the park's peace and quiet. You may be surprised by what you've read and not visited. What's there and why a park? What's the park's origin/history? Did someone famous fight or live there? Is there a natural-wonder rock, stream, mountain at its center? Walking in Nature is good anytime - more so when are minds are distracted with a pandemic.

The Beaches

These aren't the crowded Venice, Coney Island, Miami Beaches of the world. I'm referring to the less well-known stretches along our oceans and freshwater lakes. Take advantage of the early summer to visit and breathe-in the fresh air and salty breezes to relax. Take a yoga mat and practice a downward-facing-dog on the sand.

On a recent Tuesday, I drove to a Delaware beach. I'd been curious about the location; it was an easy drive; and I had a sense of adventure. I'm not a sun worshipper and instead go for the ocean scenery, breezes, walks, and reading. It's nice to see other beachgoers, just not the crowds. Even the beach towns have a personality away - walk the side streets and experience how the locals live. What are the quirky shops and food places they escape to on the weekdays?

Beach Recommendations:

1) Take advantage of the long days and enjoy the early mornings or late afternoons/evenings. These are the best time-slots for fewer crowds and better photography. The parking restrictions are more lax during off times. 2) Go to the less-traveled stretches if you want solitude. 3) Beach businesses can be open, so food/beverages are available. 4) Masks are required on boardwalks.

Going to the beach doesn't have to equal hoards of people putting you in pandemic danger.

Day Trips

When you have a mask, you're free to go anywhere. Since May 8th, I've taken three road trips for the sheer need of a better night's sleep and a change of routine and scenery. I went for the sole reason to go someplace - a serendipitous adventure - not to be with family (though possible at a distance) or to hang out in large groups.

Gasoline prices are near all-time summer lows; there's food available along major highways; and hotel chains are open and extra clean with limited services. Rental-car companies have thousands of clean cars at low daily rates. Companies in the travel industry are scrambling to confirm their safety and get you, the customers, back in their seats.

During my road trips, I've lapped at among the largest chocolate milkshakes ever at an uncrowded Delaware dairy; spotted a ginormous coal-exporting facility in Hampton Roads, VA; and visited a favorite Mediterranean, takeout in Raleigh. The road trips offered mental newness and comfort outside of my home routine.

There's no rule about the length of a road trip. Any amount of time that can refresh your perspective and help you relax, is the only requirement.

Roadside caveats: food options are predominantly drive-thru; hotels may require an online reservation ahead of arrival. I had a situation in Raleigh, North Carolina where I wasn't allowed into the lobby without a reservation. It's unclear whether that was the hotel chain's or the local government's policy. I was able to solve the problem and all worked out well.

Before You Go

The point of these escapes is to give you physical and mental breathing space. Above all, wear a mask when near other people; stay out of large groups; and use common sense. You have to weigh when/for how long it's helpful to stay indoors without natural/outdoor contact vs. taking documented precautions and leaving your house. It's your decision - you have the freedom to make it.

Best wishes and have fun with your summer options.

Thanks for reading!

Tom Sommers is a Washington, DC-based marketing writer, data analyst in the B2B, B2C sectors and an LGBTQ activist. Connect on LinkedIn or follow on Twitter today @tomsommers1.