After the past two years, it’d be no surprise if you’re raring to go on your next big adventure. A comfy couch and nonstop TV are no substitute for a beach chair and relaxing ocean waves. Countries are once again opening their arms to the travel-hungry citizens of the world. And people are finding any way they can to travel, whether by plane, cruise ship, or heck, even bicycle. So, it’s time again to whip out your suitcase and dust off your packing skills. We’ve gathered together some of the best flight destinations to travel during COVID. So, get ready for a fun and stress-free getaway.
Table of Contents
- Are You Ready to Travel Yet?
- If You Are Ready to Travel: Take Advantage Immediately
- Take a Look at 10 of the Top Destinations to Travel to in 2021
- These Destinations Look Amazing, But How About Cheap Airfare to Get There?
Are You Ready to Travel Yet?
So many of us are out of practice with traveling. Deciding if we’re prepared to travel or not counts as our first big step before diving back in.
It’s kind of like figuring out if we’re ready to jump headfirst into the deep end of the pool. Or if it might be a little less daunting to dip our toes in the shallow end first.
We touched on the decision-making process when going over our 5 Tips on Flying During COVID. However, the ultimate test for whether or not you’re ready to travel will be how safe YOU feel traveling.
Airlines are undoubtedly eager to get back to business as usual. To make that a reality, they’ve taken steps to ensure their passengers remain safe and healthy.
In a similar vein, some restaurants and attractions have put caps on the number of reservations they’re taking at once. That makes this one of the best times to travel and enjoy fantastic dining options and activities with smaller crowds in attendance.
Gearing up to travel to some of the best flight destinations amid COVID? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides recommendations and best practices for ensuring your health during travel. To prevent infection and spread, the CDC recommends wearing an appropriate protective mask.
How to Decide if You’re Ready to Fly During COVID-19
The pros and cons of flying, and travel in general, will differ for each individual. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide if traveling is a good idea right now.
If you want to travel, here are some things you can do to make sure you’re ready to hop on that next flight:
- Assess your level of risk
- Are you fully vaccinated or unvaccinated? Do you or anyone living in your household have pre-existing conditions that increase the risk of severe illness from COVID-19?
- Determine your comfort level with different forms of travel
- Flying nonstop, flying with layovers, traveling by bus or train. If you’re not ready to fly, you may still be able to travel while minimizing contact with others. Consider taking a road trip to some amazing domestic locales instead!
Once you’ve answered these questions for yourself and your family, you’ll have a better idea if you want to travel just yet. On the other hand, you may decide that waiting a few more months is best for your safety and comfort.
Whenever you’re ready, the world will still be waiting for you!
If You Are Ready to Travel: Take Advantage Immediately
COVID-19 hit the travel industry hard, and it’s still working diligently to make up for the lost time. So, if you know where to look and you’re ready to take advantage of these COVID-recovery deals, you can cash in on amazing deals to some of the best flight destinations.
Destinations around the world are offering discounts on all kinds of packages and experiences:
- Accommodations and hotel stays
- Car rentals
- Theme park tickets
- Golf course booking fees
- Spas
Los Angeles is among those cities enticing visitors to come back with deals on hotels, attractions, and more through their “Comeback” campaign.
Some countries have partnered with businesses and attractions to offer discounts meant to tempt travelers back and jumpstart their tourism industries.
Even New York City got in on the action. Over 110 hotels offered discounted rooms through Hotel Week earlier this year, while Broadway offered 2-for-1 tickets.
As you begin traveling again, look into deals and discounts that may be provided at your destination and take advantage of the savings!
Take a Look at Some of the Top Destinations to Travel to in 2022
Looking for places to visit that aren’t too far from home? Ready to break out that passport and leave home in the jet trail? These destinations are currently open to Americans and are some of the best places to travel during COVID, either solo or with your family.
Important: The CDC has issued travel advisories for over 128 destinations, including some listed here. COVID-19 rates continue to fluctuate. You can access up-to-date information—as well as advisories—from the State Department before finalizing any travel plans.
1. San Jose, Costa Rica
No quarantine or testing requirement in place
Travel Requirements: As of April 1st, travelers heading to Costa Rica do not have to apply for a Health Pass or purchase travel insurance for entry into the country.
Important: Vaccination isn’t required to visit. However, if you want to enjoy all Costa Rica has to offer, including most establishments, you’ll need to be fully vaccinated.
This tropical getaway is a place unlike any other. The rainforests teem with wildlife and striking creatures like the Ocelot and Quetzal bird call this place home. They and about 500,000 other species, almost 5% of the total estimated species worldwide!
Costa Rica’s awe-inspiring Cloud Forests are a must-see, offering a peek into the country’s vibrant plant and animal life along with stunning views of the rainforest. Of course, that’s when the low cloud cover allows for it anyway!
And for those wanting to stick close to the ocean, visitors will find themselves spoiled for choice. Vibe on the Pacific or chill on the Caribbean. While the Pacific is considered the epicenter of tourism by many, be sure to visit the Caribbean side and explore its incredible gems.
2. Lisbon, Portugal
No quarantine; present a negative COVID-19 test
Travel Requirements: Children under 12 do not need to present a test. All travelers from the US, including fully vaccinated people, must provide a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of their flight. Passengers must also fill out an individual Passenger Locator Card before departure or onboard their flight.
Portugal was one of the first countries to receive the Safe Travels stamp—a stamp created by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) to help travelers recognize destinations and businesses that have committed to adhering to the SafeTravels health and hygiene global standardized protocols. Portugal also created its own Clean and Safe stamp to distinguish businesses compliant with its hygiene and cleaning requirements. All of that care makes it perfect for a spot on our list of the best flight destinations to travel to during COVID.
Lisbon is one of the world’s oldest cities, making it rich with history. But, the city also plays an essential role in present-day culture, economics, and entertainment.
Built over seven hills along the River Tagus, it’s known for amazing views and viewpoints—called Miradoures—are scattered throughout the city. Some of these viewpoints will most definitely point you toward the Castelo de Sao Jorge, a historic castle seated atop the highest hill in Lisbon and a spot you won’t want to miss.
Quiet escapes are never far if you want a break from the bustling city. Portugal’s capital sits at a prime location for day trips to places like the coastal resort town of Cascais or the enchanting Portuguese town of Sintra.
3. Mexico City, Mexico
No quarantine or COVID-19 test is required for entry
Travel Requirements: Travelers heading to Mexico must fill out a Tourist Entry card, which will serve as your Official Entry Immigration Form. Airports conduct health screenings upon arrival. As of March 2022, visitors no longer have to fill out the online health questionnaire.
Mexico has always been a great getaway for travelers from all over the world. And as a bonus for those in the US, it’s typically just a short flight away.
Don’t let the lack of beaches dissuade you from the rich culture and vibrant history of La Ciudad de México. With over 150 museums, visitors have unique and varied ways of experiencing it all. Between places like the Palacio de Bellas Artes—home to Diego Rivera murals—and the Museo Frida Kahlo—commonly known as the Blue House—there’s always something to capture your attention.
All of that’s not even half of what this city has to offer. Relax in beautiful parks, trek famous hiking trails, and dig into some of the best cuisines to top off your stay.
4. Belize City, Belize
Provide a negative Covid test or proof of vaccination
Travel Requirements: Effective March 1st, 2022, travelers can skip the COVID test with proof of vaccination. All unvaccinated travelers aged 5+ must present a negative COVID-19 test result prior to entry. As of February 15th, Belize requires all visitors to purchase insurance with COVID-19 coverage and book accommodations at an approved hotel.
Belize is open to travelers, and you can’t go wrong with a trip to this gorgeous spot in the Caribbean.
Belize is another country on our list that earned the Safe Travels stamp from the WTTC. They also have their own Gold Standard program in place to help you recognize businesses around the city that updated their procedures to keep customers’ health and safety at the forefront. This puts Belize firmly in the category of best flight destinations to travel during COVID because it means you can plan your visit worry-free
This haven on the coast offers up the perfect vacation spot unlike any other. From snorkeling in Belize’s expansive barrier reef to hiking some of its tallest mountains like Victoria Peak, you’ll find endless opportunities to make a trip to Belize a genuinely unforgettable experience.
5. San Juan, Puerto Rico
No quarantine or COVID-19 test is required for entry
Travel Requirements: As of March 10th, requirements for showing proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test have been eliminated. Likewise, visitors are no longer required to fill out a Travel Declaration Form. Travelers returning to the US are exempt from the CDC testing requirements.
Puerto Rico has also lifted its capacity restrictions for all businesses, including dining, accommodations, and attractions like museums, marinas, and hotel facilities. Fully vaccinated people are exempt from local rules requiring masks at public beaches and parks.
San Juan offers stunning colonial architecture and a wide array of beaches perfect for everything from snorkeling to sunbathing. Puerto Rico is also home to three of the world’s five bioluminescent bays in Mosquito Bay, Laguna Grande, and La Parguera. Any one of these is a must-see on a trip to Puerto Rico!
6. Hawaii, United States
No entry requirements for domestic travelers
Travel Requirements: As of March 26th, Hawaii has eliminated all previous arrival and entry requirements. The Hawaii Safe Travels Program has been decommissioned.
Hawaii is one of the best destinations for US travelers searching for their next adventure but hoping to remain close to home. Since the start of the pandemic, Hawaii has implemented countless safety measures on the islands. Those safety precautions are one of the reasons Hawaii has always been one of the best flight destinations during COVID. Now, with COVID numbers finally easing, many of the islands’ restrictions have eased as well.
Home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes, Hawaii remains a one-of-a-kind experience. Dive with manta rays, zipline through the trees, tour the islands via helicopter, and watch new earth form on the Big Island with a volcano tour.
No matter the island, Hawaii offers no shortage of incredible experiences.
7. U.S. Virgin Islands
No quarantine; show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test
Travel Requirements: Fully vaccinated travelers can skip providing a COVID test with proof of their vaccination. Non-vaccinated travelers aged 5+ are required to take a COVID test. All travelers should upload their information to the USVI Travel Screening Portal within five days of departure. No COVID-19 test result is required for traveling or returning to the US mainland (unless there are state-specific requirements in place).
The US Virgin Islands (USVI) consists of roughly 50 islands, rich with history and natural beauty. However, two islands draw more visitors than any other.
St. Thomas
St. Thomas is the epicenter of most tourism to the islands and your entry port to the island getaway experience. Here, you’ll find a historic downtown, home to local-history museums like Fort Christian and the watchtower built to protect it known as Blackbeard’s Castle. In addition, opportunities abound to shop, dine on local cuisine, and enjoy the turquoise waters along St. Thomas’ beautiful white sand beaches.
Because of the significant tourism draw, most of the islands’ big resorts make their home here. However, that shouldn’t stop you from hopping on over for a visit to St. Croix via the easily accessible inter-island air and ferry services.
St. Croix
St. Croix is the largest island and far quieter than its sister isles. So, if you’re looking for a peaceful escape, St. Croix is one of the best flight destinations you could ask for amid the trials of COVID.
Here, you can explore the islands’ colorful pasts, shaped by several nations around the globe. Those nations include France, Spain, the Netherlands, Great Britain, Denmark, the Knights of Malta, and the United States.
Ready to whip out your water gear? The first underwater monument in the US can be found in the waters of Buck Island Reef. It serves as a perfect destination for snorkelers and scuba divers!
8. Athens, Greece
No entry requirements
Travel Requirements: As of May 1st, all pandemic-related restrictions have been lifted and Greece is open to all travelers. The previous testing and vaccination requirements have also been dropped from restaurants, bars, and other businesses.
Athens is a must-have on any list of best flight destinations, whether before, during, or after COVID. A staple for its history, architecture, and culture, all of that barely scratches the surface of what this famous city has to offer.
The ancient citadel of the Acropolis overlooks the city of Athens. Take a museum tour and discover some of its most intriguing artifacts. Athens is full of must-see landmarks from the Parthenon to the Temple of Athena Nike and more.
Taking a stroll through this city will take you right to the heart of ancient Greece, and its beauty and history will keep you entertained throughout your trip.
9. Cancun, Mexico
No quarantine or COVID-19 test is required for entry
Travel Requirements: Travelers heading to Mexico must fill out a Tourist Entry card, which will serve as your Official Entry Immigration Form. Airports conduct health screenings upon arrival. As of March 2022, visitors no longer have to fill out the online health questionnaire.
Cancun is famous for its white-sand beaches and stunning blue waters.
Experience the vibrant nightlife found in Cancun’s Zona Hotelera or explore the hidden gems of Mexican culture in downtown Cancun, aka El Centro. This city boasts something for everyone, no matter your taste. That kind of ability to please, plus its close proximity, is what elevates it to the mantel of best flight destinations, especially during COVID.
And speaking of taste, you can’t go to Mexico without experiencing the local cuisine. Grab a bite from a vendor in the city, then hop on over to el Parque las Palapas. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the sights and sounds of Cancun like the locals do.
10. Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
No vaccination or COVID test is required for entry
Travel Requirements: As of February 17th, the Dominican Republic ended its COVID mandates. Visitors do not have to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to enter the country or access businesses. All travelers must complete an electronic ticket upon arrival to the country or 72 hours before entry.
As the second-largest island in the Caribbean, after Cuba, the Dominican Republic brims with wonder. Santo Domingo was the site of the first cathedral, hospital, university, and customs house and, as such, has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
But history isn’t all this Caribbean island has to offer. Hike the rainforests and explore the country’s rich landscapes or horseback along the hills and clifftops of the Dominican Republic. With a plethora of activities to choose from, your vacation here is guaranteed to be a memorable one.
These Destinations Look Amazing, But How About Cheap Airfare to Get There?
And there you have it! Ten of the best flight destinations during COVID. Now, you only have to worry about getting there, right? Well, not if you use Next Vacay to find the perfect deal for you.
Once you sign up for Next Vacay, our team of expert deal hunters will send all of the best deals straight to your inbox and customize them to your location! Typically, you may spend days, or even weeks, perusing different search engines and airline websites to find the perfect deal. (And if you’re new to deal hunting and want to give it a try, we’ve got some tips on how to find cheap flight fares that you’ll love.)
But finding the perfect deal can take time. Sometimes you may not have days or even hours to do so. Instead, why not take less than five minutes to sign up for Next Vacay and have your next adventure delivered right to your inbox!
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So what are you waiting for? Are you ready for your next adventure?
