Something rather interesting is going on as the worldwide Coronavirus pandemic marks one of the most universal reference points in recent history. In the past, we referred to travel before and, more significantly, after 9/11 as a reference point of similar substance. After 9/11, travel changed. After Coronavirus, travel will also change. To say “we’ll get past this and back to normal” is becoming an increasingly inaccurate thought. More like a dream. Whatever normal was, it will be different going forward. All of the above is now something to think about before asking or answering questions about travel. So let’s get to it. These questions came up over the last week or so.

• “I’m more concerned with the problems on ships sailing right now. Or is that the same topic?”– Roger C, Tulsa. Exactly the same. Illness and death at sea events in the news have been pretty hard to miss recently. Some virus-related, others just cruise haters that jump at any chance to beat us up. They love this.

• When will it be safe to sail again? -Dorothy E, St Louis (and many others) – Totally safe? When you charter a ship and are the only person on it or when a vaccine is readily available. At that point, the Coronavirus thread will be demoted to the same rank Motion Discomfort has: easily controllable. There will probably be a test or two in the experience going forward. Just a guess.

• Do you think there is one brand or kind of ship that is safer than another? Phyllis R, Omaha. Well that’s a really slippery slope for sure Phyllis. Yes and no and there is not a good way to put this so I will just get right to it. Stay away from ships full of slobs (people with poor hygiene). “Well how would I know THAT?” you ask. You don’t and can’t know. Smaller ships with fewer people have an initial allure on this topic but when you think about it, the space between people is probably similar.

• “This bailout… cruise lines won’t get that will they? They’re not American companies are they? Susan M, Kansas City – While the effect of being flagged in other countries keeps their expenses down and the passenger experience/value up, they do employ many Americans. In fact, cruise expert Stewart Chiron, TV’s @CruiseGuy tells us the “#Cruise industry in the US is responsible for almost 500,000 jobs. Total US economic impact is close to $60 BILLION. Direct purchasing in US is over $24B. Wages and salaries over $24B.” My thought: The cruises we’re talking about are as American as Apple Pie. We should take care of them and their employees too. Make them American-flagged in the deal. It would be a pleasure to pay a premium for that distinction if they could make it work.

• “I’m confused about which special offer to accept from the cruise line on my cancelled cruise. Who can help?” – Jim R, Tampa. Your travel agent. Don’t have one? Correct that mistake immediately. Visit the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) agent finder website where you can find agents today.

• “What about flying? There are some really good deals out there! Sam S, Toledo- YES- there are some wonderful offers out there from airlines…but maybe not many that are practical. I can fly back to Kansas City for less than half the normal price on a prefered airline. Less than $40 on Spirit if I wanted to be sure I caught the deadly virus. Engage @JohnnyJet for expert air advice you can use.

The interesting part of all this is that the current state of travel has probably changed since I wrote this on Saturday morning. This virus affects so much more than those infected.

Send your questions to Chris@ChrisCruises.com