Last Updated on October 12, 2024 by Dawn Head
COVID Friendly Traveling over the last year has been a complicated business as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, with planning, research, and following some detailed guidelines, it is still possible to plan an exciting vacation adventure while keeping yourself and your family safe. As the world slowly opens up over the next few months, there will be plenty of travelers looking to take advantage of their new-found freedom and shake off the cabin fever of 2020 – 2021. With vaccination programs well underway in most countries, this is the right time to plan the much-needed holiday in 2023.
If you’ve been looking forward to a Caribbean vacation or a cultural city break for months, here are some tips for planning a COVID-friendly trip.
COVID Friendly Preparation is key
Vacation preparation has never been more critical than it is right now, and doing your research and getting everything in order before you head off on your travels is key to a COVID friendly trip. You need to know what the situation is like at your destination, what mitigation measures there are in place, and what attractions, bars, restaurants, and so on are open.
If you have access to decent testing sites, it is well worth getting tested before traveling for peace of mind. Most of all, you will want to prepare for the unexpected as much as you can.
Go through WHO COVID Guidelines
The World Health Organization (WHO) issues updated positions regarding COVID and vaccinations regularly. It is essential to be aware of the WHO’s position regarding COVID-19 immunization, especially for international travelers.
Currently, considering the limited availability of vaccines, WHO’s position does not introduce the need for COVID-19 vaccination proof for international travel. However, WHO is working with partners to establish a framework for a digital vaccination certificate that could possibly be used for national and international travel.
Learn about the latest COVID 19 travel restrictions
Get info on federal, state, and local restrictions on travel, especially at the destination of your choice or where you plan to holiday. As changes are likely to happen regularly, make sure that you are aware of the current recommendations and restrictions and what the country demands of travelers. Many countries and states still demand 14 days of quarantine upon arrival, and in some spots, stay-at-home orders have been made necessary again.
Obey the local regulations
It is super important to pay attention to the rules and regulations of the community you are visiting regarding social distancing, mask-wearing, and capacity in restaurants. Partly because it is always vital to be respectful when you travel and because if you fall foul of what is required, you might not be able to visit at all! Checking the local situation often in the run-up to your trip is key too, as the situation changes all the time and you don’t want to be caught short.
Consider travel insurance
Weigh the pros and cons when deciding on travel insurance, especially if you plan to holiday during Covid-19. Read the fine print, know what is covered, and guarantee that your vacation will be fully refundable. The travel insurance may not cover cancellation due to a lockdown happening in a certain location.
Try a new vacation style
You might be used to heading out to packed clubs every night or going to crowded concert halls when you are on vacation, but this year will be different. So instead of going to the same old places and being disappointed that you can’t do your favorite activities, why not try an entirely new style of vacation?
Rent an RV and camp up somewhere spectacular, or jump in a van with your family and road trip across the US. Escape to a remote mountain cabin with stunning views, or book a boutique wilderness hotel on the edge of a National Park. The possibilities for socially-distanced vacations are endless, and you might just discover your new favorite adventure!
Pack smart
Travel advice often focuses on how to pack less, but this year being over-prepared trumps having a smaller bag. Make sure you pack everything you might need, from extra masks, hand sanitizer, and alcohol wipes, to spare sheets if you are particularly risk-averse. If you are planning a socially-distanced, COVID-friendly vacation, the last thing you need is to have to search for necessities, so pack a little extra to ensure a more relaxing experience for everyone. Some travelers prefer to pack their own pillowcases and sheets.
Consider location and crowds
When booking accommodations, try to keep away from crowded areas, and thus it is essential to take the proper precautions. Even if you are getting deeply discounted rates, do not take risks if you will have to share spaces and elevators with a higher number of people.
Look for hotels and accommodations such as Airbnb that follow new cleaning guidelines and place a buffer between guest stays. So, look for remote locales that are a lot less populated and those that attract fewer crowds.
Plan more outdoor activities
Experts generally recommend skipping indoor activities, like museums, and plot an itinerary for outdoor activities. It is possible that most destination restaurants and popular destinations might be closed as they might be considered unsafe right now. Even if they are one, you might face limited reservations and shorter hours. So, it is much safer and better to plan activities such as camping, hiking, biking, or spending quality time at a peaceful and less crowded beach.
Where to holiday in 2023?
Right now, due to the travel restrictions due to the global pandemic, you need to be careful about where you plan to go and where to stay. Travel planners already report a rise in vacation bookings. Based on the recommendations of travel experts, here are some of the best spots you could plan and travel to.
Safety is ensured at these holidaying spots with strict travel requirements and testing needs for each traveler. So, as a traveler, you can be sure of having peace of mind that you are in a safer place.
- Kenya – Kenya has allowed small groups and ensures rigorous testing requirements. Stay in eco-chic safari lodges and enjoy a new experience as you get exposed to Maasai and Samburu traditions.
- Costa Rica – Costa Rica is one of the few countries that has managed to maintain the lowest Covid-19 fatality rates because of its successful management of the virus. So, if you meet their strict travel requirements, you can go ahead and plan a trip there.
- British Virgin Islands – Another popular holiday location you could consider during the pandemic is the British Virgin Islands. Known for its breathtaking scenery, and secluded beaches with pristine waters, it is indeed a paradise.
- Slovenia – Slovenia had often been ignored by tourists up until now but is going to be among the top destinations. As one of the most sustainable countries, the country and its capital have become a massive trend amongst travelers.
- Islands of Tahiti – The Islands of Tahiti boast naturally pristine and remote beaches. These islands are a perfect escape in this new age of travel. Enjoy an authentic Tahitian experience.
- Rwanda – Sustainable travel has been at the part of Rwanda culture even during the days before the pandemic. So, in Rwanda’s case, you can enjoy a tourism product that is well-tested and developed with additional safety measures that not only protect the locals and the travelers but the endangered species of their forests.
- Tunisia – Tunisia is perfect for travelers and boasts of some amazing archeological sites and seaside villages. Get ready for one-of-a-kind experiences in Tunisia for travelers interested in history and culture.
- Maldives – Maldives may not be a new destination and is already very popular among tourists. The only difference is that it has become even more popular as a getaway during the pandemic. The recent peace negotiations and new hotels make the Maldives perfect for those looking for ultimate seclusion as it is a naturally socially distant getaway.
- Donegal – Donegal, with its lush green country sides, is among one of the many stunning areas in Ireland. Get ready for a wonderfully different experience that is both authentic and breathtaking. Embark on a journey that is safe and covers those captivating beaches, wild landscapes, and great stargazing.
With more and more countries opening their doors, one should still be careful as health and safety protocols are still in place and many places around the world still remain off-limits. Just keep the above tips in mind to travel safely and confidently and enjoy your trip.
There is no need to miss out on your travel escapades, provided you know where to go and what safety guidelines to follow. Get ready for an amazing vacation!