Thanks to Covid-19, travel has become more challenging than ever before. With cases still rising, many borders remain closed.
And especially If you live in the US like I do, traveling to international countries has become even trickier.
But if you’re craving to get back into the world and back to traveling, here are seven countries you can actually visit right now.
These captivating destinations are welcoming all travelers back as safely as they can in the midst of this pandemic.
1) Jamaica
The beautiful and lush island of Jamaica is open to all tourists.
From the stunning landscapes, gorgeous beaches, amazing food and attractions, it’s no wonder why Jamaica continues to be one of the most popular must-visit destinations.
All residents from the US, Brazil, Mexico, Panama, and the Dominican Republic ages 12 and up must submit a negative Covid-19 PCR or Antigen test taken within 10 days of travel.
You can use the test date calculator provided to see when you should take your test.
You must also apply for and get an approved travel authorization within 5 days of travel. You will need this document along with your negative covid results to check-in and board your flight.
You can apply for a travel authorization here.
Currently, if you are not staying at a private residence, and to ensure the safety of all, you and your family will have to enjoy your fun vacation in the “resilience corner”.
These are areas along the beautiful north and south coast (read: crystal blue water and white sandy beaches) where the staff of hotels and attractions have been thoroughly trained to adhere to safety Covid-19 protocols.
For full details on accepted Covid tests and to see all travel-related updates visit the official site.
2) Egypt
In Egypt you can expect to experience a rich culture and cuisine.
When you visit you’ll have the chance to see the famous historical sites and landmarks, to take a cruise on the Nile, to dive in the Red Sea or to explore the popular Khan al Khalili market in Cairo.
As of September 1, both the Luxor and Aswan governorates have also been re-opened to international visitors including temples, archaeological sites, and museums.
Luxor is home to the “World’s greatest open-air museum” and lies between the east and west banks of the Nile close to the Valley of the Kings.
Aswan also has various temples and museums. It offers an experience through the Nubian village and let’s you see the last of the Nubian civilization which co-existed with ancient Egyptians.
In order to visit this incredible destination, travelers from North America will have to provide a negative PCR test certificate.
The test has to be done within 96 hours prior to flight departure.
You must show paper copies of your results as digital copies will not be accepted. Children under the age of 6 are exempt. Proof of health insurance must also be shown upon arrival.
For more updates and more information visit here.
3) Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is the second largest country in the Caribbean, offering a lush, tropical paradise.
With its year-round warm climate, crystal blue water and home to a warm and vibrant culture, this is another popular must-visit destination.
To travel to the Dominican Republic, you no longer need to provide a negative Covid-19 test result to enter the country.
Instead, a breath test may be administered and a temperature check will be performed.
You will also need to complete a traveler’s health affidavit where you state that you have not experienced any covid-related symptoms within the last 72 hours.
As of February 1, 2021, digital forms (E-Ticket) will become mandatory.
This E-Ticket combines the Traveler’s Health Affidavit, Customs Declaration, and International Embarkation/Disembarkation forms into an online form.
One great thing is that if you go by March 31, 2021, the country will provide you with a temporary free travel assistance plan which covers you in the event of an infection or exposure to Covid-19.
This includes coverage for medical specialists, the cost of airfare changes, and accommodations if your stay is extended.
This is provided at no cost to you, but only if you arrive by air. This also only applies to guests staying at a hotel.
Visit here for updates and travel details.
4) The Bahamas
The popular destination of the Bahamas is actually made up of 700 islands!
Each island is home to its own alluring local culture.
With so many islands to visit, you won’t run out of things to do.
Whether it’s simply relaxing on a beach, going parasailing or diving, visiting historical and heritage sites or going on an eco-tour, your days can become quite full!
Of course, in order to keep everyone safe during the pandemic, The Bahamas requires all visitors to have taken a Covid-19 PCR test and received negative results no more than 5 days prior to entering the country.
However, children 10 and under are not required to be tested.
The test results must be uploaded so that you can complete the health visa application.
You will also be required to get Covid-19 health insurance which is included in the cost of the health visa application fee.
If you are staying more than 5 days or 4 nights, you will have to take a rapid test. But you will get the results within an hour via text or email.
For the latest updates visit The Bahamas tourism site.
And for all the fun things to do while in The Bahamas, go here.
5) St. Barts (St.Barthélemy)
The lavish and ritzy island of St. Barts has reopened.
Visitors ages 11 and older are required to submit a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival or a negative Antigen test taken within 48 hours of arrival.
If you are staying longer than 7 days, you will have to take an additional test at your own expense.
Of course, this island drips in luxury, whether staying at a plush hotel or villa, eating gourmet dishes or purchasing expensive designer pieces.
However, there is also plenty to do if you do decide to venture outside your hotel like have a picnic at one of the 22 gorgeous and uncrowded beaches.
You can also explore the local towns and experience the culture of the people of St. Barts.
Visiting the historical monuments in the capital city of Gustavia, with its “gingerbread” style buildings, will allow you to further immerse yourself in this island’s heritage.
For any updates before visiting go to the St. Barts official site.
6) Mexico
With its stunning beaches, intriguing archaeological ruins, delicious cuisine and dynamic culture there’s no mystery as to why Mexico remains a popular destination.
There are currently no testing requirements prior to arriving in Mexico.
However, you will have to fill out a health questionnaire and your responses may determine if you need to quarantine.
This has been an especially popular destination for those traveling during the pandemic.
You can read what it was like for me when I traveled to Mexico during the pandemic.
7) United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales)
While most of Europe’s borders remain closed to travelers coming directly from the US, the UK allows travelers to enter as long as you self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival.
Covid-19 test results are currently not required to travel to the UK.
You, (along with each person traveling with you), will have to complete the Public Health Locator Form.
This provides UK officials with your contact and travel information while you self-isolate.
For Covid-19 related updates visit here.
Each destination may also have more specific requirements. Check here for updates for each country in the UK.
These are just some of the most popular places you can go to right now.
While the new travel requirements may initially put a damper on your fun, it’s worth it to make sure you and your family remain safe throughout your trip!
Since this is an ever-evolving situation, be sure to check the country’s website for any updates before traveling to your destination.
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