COVID-19 has interrupted a lot of schedules and rituals. But it doesn't have to take away your plans for vacation, if you settle on a cheap flight from Atlanta for a late summer trip in 2020.
With so much loss and sacrifice playing out on the global scene, it may seem frivolous to be considering palm trees or charming historic towns. But focusing on a possible vacation in late summer 2020 might help you make it through this tough time. As human beings, we need things in our future to be excited and optimistic about.
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So far, even with the ravages to the travel industry as the coronavirus hits various destinations, there is still the historic drop in many plane ticket prices for travel that starts in mid-August or early to mid-September.
If you're doubtful about booking a flight when the impact of COVID-19 is still so uncertain, take comfort knowing most airlines are currently offering some sort of "change fee" waiver on tickets purchased in these unpredictable travel times.
As of April 6, 2020, Delta, for example, is allowing travelers to change plane tickets purchased between March 1 and May 31, 2020 without a change fee for a year from the purchase date, while American Airlines is granting one free change on tickets purchased between now and April 30, 2020. Study all those policies ahead of purchasing a cheap summer vacation flight from Atlanta so you won't lose your purchase price, even if you have to postpone a late summer flight still further as COVID-19 events unfold.
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Here are five roundtrip flights for late August and early September that are cheap to book in the next couple of weeks, along with a description of what makes each destination so appealing at any price:
Atlanta to San Juan, Puerto Rico
The prices: Flying out on Thursday or Friday, August 20 or 21, and returning about a week later, round trip starting at $158.
The appeal:The temperatures may be the same as those you left behind in late summer Atlanta, but refreshing Caribbean breezes, short daily rain showers and azure waters will cool and refresh. Since this is the low season, you'll be able to share the pools and views with the locals, and get their tips for homestyle Caribbean restaurants. If you tire of the beaches (as if!), old town San Juan is there for the strolling.
Atlanta to Denver
The prices: Starting August 15 with returns until about August 30, round trip airfare is about $115. It can dip even lower on certain weekdays, too.
The appeal: You won't be skiing in the Mile High City in the late August time frame, but Denver is the gateway for the epic Rocky Mountain National Park. Plan for hiking, biking, viewing wildlife and native flora and fauna, and checking out mountain towns that circle the park. The brewery offerings alone could launch a full week of pub crawls.
Atlanta to Dublin, Ireland
The prices: If you set the search engine for Atlanta-to-Dublin departures beginning Sept. 6, you can land a round trip as cheap as $651, and prices may dive lower still before you book.
The appeal: Fare Compare chose Dublin as a best cheap destination for August 2020, urging, "If you haven't been to Ireland, what are you waiting for? Dublin is a lovely city with wonderful people. See Dublin Castle (dating from the 13th century), the Book of Kells (circa 800 A.D.), and decidedly modern nightlife. Head out of town for endless hills of green and an endless supply of inviting pubs."
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Atlanta to Panama City Beach, Florida
The prices: Any Delta round trip starting about August 15 and running through mid-September costs about $146, including non-stops.
The appeal: Palm trees! While many use Panama City Beach as a hub while they check out the nearby Gulf Coast town like pretty and luxurious Destin, Panama City Beach has its own 27 miles of sandy beaches and soothing blue waters and the snorkeling and deep-sea fishing that go with them. In addition to this taste of summer that you might have missed earlier in 2020, Panama City offers shopping, galleries and trolleys chugging along its historic St. Andrews district.
Atlanta to Boston
The prices: A late August round trip fare starts at $140 per person
The appeal: Colonial history (good and bad), appealing architecture, and residents who still talk with a New England accent are a few reasons to visit Boston. The seafood and museums are equally abundant, and you can walk much of the historic area, which may be a real relief after spending the spring and early summer on lockdown.
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