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I Flew To Paris During A Pandemic
Here’s what it’s like to travel in the middle of a health crisis.
“You’re absolutely crazy for going abroad during the middle of a global pandemic. Why the hell would you want to do that?”
That’s what my dad said to me when I told him that I was going to France. He was nervous. So was my mom. But my accommodation and flights were booked. There was no going back.
Throughout my life, I’ve been pretty adventurous. I’ve always tried to escape my comfort zone, find new opportunities, and explore a variety of places. My family loves the fact that I’m curious about everything this beautiful planet has to offer. But this time, they said I was being way too risky for their liking.
Yesterday morning, I packed my bags and got a ride to the airport from my brother. We spent the entirety of lockdown living together in a small apartment. Even at this age, the sibling rivalry between us is pretty common. He was happy to see me go. And to be honest, so was I.
It felt surreal walking through the entrance of London Heathrow. We’re all battling a virus that’s taking the lives of friends, family, and other people we care about. But aside from the mandatory obligation to wear a mask, everything seemed pretty normal at first.