Why I Still Travel and Mask - Even in Paradise 🏝️

TLDR: An academic trip to Hawaii in 2024 inspired this COVID-cautious travel blog.

Hilton Waikiki Beach

In 2024, I had the opportunity to present at the American Association of Geographers conference in Hawaii - an honour to be selected to present my graduate research to the leaders in my field and visit one of the top destinations on my Travel bucket list! A literal dream come true (x2!), but as the departure date crept closer, I found myself clouded in doubt. Not about the logistics. Or even the cost. It was my commitment to continue wearing a mask and taking other measures to minimize my exposure to COVID-19.

I was/am the only one in my personal, academic, and professional circles who continues to mask and take COVID precautions. And, I'll be honest, I don't like wearing face masks either. I have tried many (a review post is coming!) and still haven't found one that's comfortable to wear for more than a few hours. The thought of the 12-hour flight, navigating airports, and walking through the hot, humid streets in Hawaii while masked did not sound like paradise. I wasn't sure it would be feasible or comfortable to travel across the planet as someone who remains COVID-conscious.

Luckily (as I would come to realize), I had told my mom about the trip before these doubts crept in. She was so excited that we were going to Hawaii 😅 there was NO backing out.

And I am so glad I didn't.

Living in a small rural area with occasional trips to surrounding mid-sized Canadian cities, I am accustomed to being the only one wearing a mask in public. To my surprise, the public presence of "Maskers" was noticeable! Everywhere I went in Maui, I saw several others wearing masks. Residents, workers, and other travellers were choosing to protect themselves and others indoors, along the beach, and on the streets. For the first time, I felt a part of a community I tend to only feel online (primarily on Instagram).

The experience inspired me. I had almost cancelled a dream trip because there was so little information about the travel experiences of COVID-conscious folk. We can and should still travel in ways that are safe and enjoy ourselves.

What COVID-Conscious Travel Means to Me

Being COVID-conscious means travelling thoughtfully, at times bravely, and with care. For me, it means thinking critically about destinations. Right now, for an endless number of reasons, travelling to the States (sadly, even Hawaii) doesn't feel safe for me. It means acknowledging that I am in the minority—and that there's a level of courage involved in staying masked when it might draw judgment or even harassment.

Most importantly, it means that no matter how many precautions I take, there is always a risk. It means recognizing that travel is a privilege - to travel at all and to be able to take precautions in these non-pandemic pandemic times, requiring me to be exceptionally considerate about how my presence and choices impact the health and well-being of others.

COVID-conscious travel means taking responsibility, showing respect, and experiencing joy.

Victoria Travels Masked on the Beach

Who I Am

I am Haudenosaunee ("People of the Longhouse") - Indigenous to Turtle Island (lands currently occupied by the colonial states of Canada and the US).

I'm also a mom to one incredibly bright teenager who inspires me to live with care and intention. I strive to continually improve myself for the sake of my health and well-being, and to be a positive influence on my family, friends, and community.

Who this Blog is For

I created Victoria Travels Masked for folk like me - the ones still taking care. This space is for:

• COVID-conscious travellers and non-travellers alike

• Immunocompromised people

• Solo moms

• Indigenous travellers

• Anyone who values community care and kindness

Through the COVID-conscious Instagram community, I found a connection when I felt alone and full of self-doubt. I started this blog to give back to that community—and to anyone out there who wants (or needs) to travel more safely.

I'll be sharing stories, reflections, honest reviews of places I visit - from a COVID-conscious, Indigenous, and middle-aged mom perspective 😃

Let's travel safely and kindly - together. 🛫