The Omicron variant has swept all 50 U.S. states, overtaking Delta as the dominant COVID-19 strain. With cases hitting record highs in New York, Maine, and Puerto Rico this week, Americans are reimagining holiday celebrations once again. 🎁
Adapting Traditions, Staying Safe
CGTN Stringer spoke to New Yorkers about their plans: “We’re keeping it small this year,” said Brooklyn resident Maya Torres. “My family canceled our flight to Florida – nobody wants to risk getting stuck in quarantine.” Others, like nurse Alex Chen, shared creative workarounds: “We’re doing a virtual Secret Santa with emoji reactions instead of hugs.” 😷💻
Travel Trends & Testing Hacks
While some plan road trips to avoid crowded airports, others stock up on rapid tests. “I bought 10 kits – one for each family member before dinner,” laughed Queens resident Priya Kapoor. The CDC’s recent “test-to-travel” guidance has turned at-home kits into 2021’s hottest holiday accessory. 🧪✈️
