[I wrote most of the post below a week ago.    However,  with coronavirus surging like never before, and countries going into lockdown again, I wondered whether I should still post it.    In the end, I  did because it still paints an accurate picture of travel on the road these days,  one that despite the latest serious surge in cases, probably won't change. Obviously, if states/countries shut down, advise against travel, and things continue to worsen, my more cheery outlook on 2021 travel is seriously off, at least for the early part of the year.   ]

"We are so happy to have our visitors back again!"    So told me the owner, an Indian woman with a sweet smile and orange mark on her forehead, of a small motel in Reedport.     "This year has been very hard for us but we are still here.  And we're so glad to see you!"    

I attempted this trip back in March of this year just as the pandemic--and it's lockdowns, quarantines, and sheltering in place--really took off.   I got as far as Oregon and had to turn back.   You felt exposed to getting seriously sick... nothing was open...  locals didn't want you around... and the social/family/political message was, rightly I think, stay home, take care of your family, help those on the front lines where you can.  

However, even with no end to the pandemic, a huge surge in this past week of cases, things are radically different for travelers now.   Unlike before, you can travel easily, enjoy it, and avoid much of the risk of infection.  Also, like the woman above, the towns you go through that have been KOed economically, the small businesses reopening in big cities, the hard-hit motels and restaurants along the way will be glad to see you.   

What's different now that makes getting back on the road on those delayed motorcycle trips possible?  

Then:   No masks or hand sanitizers available.  You were totally exposed.

Now:  Masks galore and hand sanitizers everywhere give a far greater measure of safety

Then:  Still figuring out and getting used to and actually following social distancing norms--6 feet apart, no touching,   even not going out when sick, etc...

Now:  We all do it automatically and every store/public place in the world has practices in place to reduce exposure.    Cafes, motels, and other frequented stops are (usually) especially vigilant in this regard.   For example, in Oregon, hotels must allow a four hour period between checkouts and check-ins to reduce the possibility of transmission between guests leaving and arriving.     

Then:   No tests available, the only solution to a sniffle was to quarantine oneself.   More uncaught transmissions.  

Now:   Testing possible and done everywhere, often drive-thru and free.  

Then:    National/state parks were closed as were all museums and visitor activities.

Now:   Almost all parks are open and most places have reopened their attractions.    (The open parks also mean that you  can camp, avoiding lodging altogether if you prefer.)

Then:   Visitors NOT welcome.  In fact, let's kick them out!

Now:   Red carpet welcome and gratitude for your visit and business.    

As for the virus itself, the treatments are more focused and effective than before.   A vaccine is at least within sight.   

So, with a month or two delay due to the latest surge,  I'd still feel comfortable planning and committing to a road trip within country and/or friendly, accessible ones,  in early 2021.    As for the rest of the world,  summer 2021 is a safe bet, I think.  In fact, it might be one of the best times in years--countries will be offering deals of all sorts, almost paying you to come visit.