Tips to Traveling Responsibly
Benicia is routinely ranked as one of the safest cities in California, and we are doing everything we can to extend that commitment to safety during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to our local businesses ,taking measures to increase public safety, there are a number of things that visitors can do, as well!
This summer, the California Tourism Board developed the ,Responsible Travel Code to educate visitors on easy ways to be respectful of the health of others as you travel to new places. The state’s recommendations are broken down into a simple acronym, R.E.S.P.E.C.T. , that we ask our visitors to commit to:
R : Roam Responsibly
“ ,I will explore California thoughtfully and responsibly, maintaining the utmost respect for everyone and everything I encounter.”
Benicia has so many ,beautiful things to offer , please take extra care to make sure Benicia locals and your fellow visitors don’t feel uncomfortable or at-risk. Be mindful of social distancing and wearing a face covering. If everyone behaves respectfully during this difficult time, everyone will be that much safer!
E : Educate Myself
“I will do my research before traveling across the state, familiarizing myself with local regulations and community concerns, which may have changed over time. This is especially important in rural communities with limited healthcare resources.”
Different counties in California have different regulations regarding the pandemic. You can learn more about Solano County’s pandemic guidelines ,here.
S : Safety First
“I will follow public health directives from government officials, including physical distancing measures. I will take all necessary steps to minimize health risks to myself and others and stay home if I’m sick.”
Not surprisingly, the number one concern visitors have right now is their safety. Regardless of your personal feelings towards the government’s guidelines, please adopt a mindset of being as safe as possible -- both as a precaution, and as a show of respect to everyone around you.
P : Preserve California
“I will protect and nurture the Golden State’s pristine outdoor spaces and cultural icons, by maintaining a light footprint at every turn and paying special attention to delicate ecosystems.”
Between the beautiful views of the Bay, the expansive State Recreation Area, and the nearby delta, Benicia offers visitors a ,number of ways to enjoy nature’s beauty. When you come by to escape for the day, please stay on the trails, protect the natural ecosystem, and remember to clean up any litter from your ,scenic picnic.
E : Embrace Community
“I will support local businesses and do my part to ensure the long-term prosperity of the places I visit.”
Benicia is proud of its quirky personality, which is why it has no chain stores and few franchises. Visitors get to enjoy a unique cultural experience at each of the ,quirky boutiques and ,restaurants.
That said, the coronavirus has devastated small businesses around the country, as reduced pedestrian traffic has made many locations close forever. Instead of ordering your next meal or outfit from a massive online retailer, why not support your community by ordering from local businesses?
C : Celebrate Culture
“I will immerse myself in California’s diverse local cultures and embrace the traditions and practices I encounter.”
Benicia is a special place, culturally far-removed from the tech giants and urban gentrification of neighboring Bay Area cities. Let's all continue to embrace our neighbors and appreciate the unique personalities and experiences we find there.
T : Teach Others
“ ,I will lead by example and share these practices with fellow travelers, acknowledging that we all share the responsibility to protect California.”
The only way we can get through this crisis is together. Lead by example, pass this message along, and do your part in making sure our community stays safe, prosperous, and healthy!
Learn more about the state’s R.E.S.P.E.C.T. program at ,Visit California.
#RespectCalifornia
