Do you need a breather from all the weight the world has today? If you want to travel this year despite the pandemic, do not worry. There are territories who have already adapted to the new normal and are already accepting international tourists. Head on to our list of the top 10 travel destinations in the world that you should visit this year and know how you can still explore the world despite restrictions and protocols.
Travelling after COVID-19 outbreak
When looking for a place to spend weeks or months remotely working, there are various factors that a digital nomad prioritizes. Depending on your preference, here are some properties that you should check for your next city to visit.
1. Travel Restrictions
In the early days of the pandemic, most countries closed their borders. With the governments imposing local and national lockdowns, people have been stuck at home. We understand that these are all necessary measure to prevent the spread of the virus. But with the discoveries about the virus, institutions have been adapting to this new normal as well. These lead to the re-opening of the tourism industry in the new normal landscape.
Countries who have successfully managed their local units have been slowly opening their boarders once again. COVID-19 swab test has been standard for most airlines and quarantine policies are in place on airports. These protocols are expected to be in place for the next years.
>> Drink your multivitamins wherever you go to maintain good health.
2. Local Protocols
Aside from international restrictions and airport policies, local protocols are done in most parts of the world. Wearing of masks and face shields have been a standard. Curfews are imposed in some areas. Social distancing has become universal.
To avoid any hassle and enjoy the most of your travel destination, always update yourself from existing local protocols. While we want to indulge ourselves with a vacation, we always must look upon ourselves and for others until we completely eradicate the virus.
Asia
1. South Korea
South Korea is a much deserving country to be the first on our top 10 travel destinations this year. They made headlines all over the world for being one of the countries who has the best strategy in fighting the pandemic. With manageable statistics, South Korea has now reopened their boarders to travelers. Yes! You can navigate through the places of your favorite Koreanovela even during pandemic.
Covid-19 Requirements:
- Negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to departure
- Facility Agreement
- 14-Day quarantine in a government-designated facility (134 USD per night)
Where to go:
Here are the destinations travelers sought for in South Korea. Plan ahead and get a tour package online from 12 USD (Activity Tour) to 2,249 USD (all-in week-long tour).
- National Museum of Korea
- Gyeongbokgung Palace
- Bukchon Hanok Village
- Nami Island
- Jeju Island
Important Details
A law in South Koreas has limited the data available in Google Maps. There are other apps available for download in the country, but they are mostly in Korean. Booking a tour package will save you from the hassle of navigating around by yourself.
South Korea has 4 seasons. Visit from March to May to experience the colors of cherry blossoms in full bloom during spring. The temperature is typically 15-18°C. For a much Koreanovela feels, experience the autumn colors from September to November. Experience a 20-22°C weather with less chances of rain than spring.
South Korea Outfit Packing List
Koreans like dressing up. If you want to blend-in, wear sharp clothes rather than trying to sport a backpacker look.
General Reminders:
- Avoid revealing clothes and keep shoulders covered.
- It is advisable to avoid wearing bikinis in beach unless you are in a tourist area.
- Wear sunscreen (even during cold seasons).
- Remove sunglasses when talking to locals as it is deemed as disrespectful.
Everyday Wear
- Light clothes (cotton and linen)
- Pants or shorts
- Sneakers or travelling sandals
Spring/Autumn
- Long sleeves
- Jackets or light-weight blazers
- Light sweaters
- Scarf
- Sneakers or boots
Winter
- Thermal sweater
- Heavy windproof or wool jackets
- Scarf
- Gloves
- Winter booths
Summer
- Light loose-fitting shirts (linen, silk, or cotton)
- Shorts
- Sunglasses
- Caps or hats
- Sneakers or comfortable shoes
2. Thailand
With only 88 deaths, Thailand is also a worthy country to applaud for its COVID-19 response. They have reopened their territory for all nationals subject to certain protocols. They are back to processing applications for Special Tourist Visa for passport holders of countries not included in their visa exemption list.
Covid-19 Requirements
- Approved Certificate of Entry
- Negative COVID-19 Test taken within 72 hours prior to departure
- COVID-19 Test upon arrival
- 14-day quarantine at government-approved facility
- Health insurance policy covering COVID-19 up to 100,000 USD
Where to go: Spots:
- The Grand Palacehe cheapest cities to live in
- Phang Nga Bay
- Phuket
- Ayutthaya
- Khao Yai National Park
Important Details
Thailand has one of the best beaches around the world. If you dream about having the best water experience, do not miss this chance to book an adventure in one of their coastlines for as low as 26 USD.
Being in the tropical region, Thailand has a hot, rainy, and dry season. Book a visit from November to April to experience cool breeze with less chances of raining. As this country has reach biodiversity, expect bugs around all-year round, too. Pack an extra insect repellant as an added protection.
Thailand Outfit Packing List
Although it is generally okay to walk with shorts and tank tops on Thai streets, pants will protect you from mosquito bites. Rain can occur all year long, always have an umbrella or raincoat with you.
Temple Visits:
- Maxi dress (for women)
- Long scarf
- Shirt
- Pants
- Easy-to-remove shoes
Everyday Wear:
- Light clothes (cotton and linen)
- Pants or shorts
- Sneakers or travelling sandals
Beach Wear:
- Swimsuit that does not show cleavage for women
- Board shorts for men
- Cover-ups
- Sunglasses
United Kingdom
1. Norfolk
A COVID-free island haven which is open for business is next to our list of the top 10 travel destinations to visit this year. The Norfolk County’s charming landscape and unspoiled shores might just be what you need to re-energize yourself from the pandemic that has ruled over UK. The ruined castles and medieval churches will surely give you a travel back in time where life is so much different.
Covid-19 Requirements:
- Approved Norfolk Island Entry Pass submitted 24-72 hours prior to departure.
- Confirmed booking of a self-contained accommodation
- COVID-19 swab testing will be required if you develop symptoms upon arrival.
As of this writing, the whole UK is in national lockdown. Norfolk is said to reopen boarders from tourists by April 12.
Where to go:
- The Broads National Park
- Norwich Cathedral
- Hunstanton Beach
- Hokham Beach
- Castle Acre
Important Details
The county is snake free, but mosquitoes are quite common. Make sure to bring a repellant with you. Book for four to five days and that would be enough to explore the island. You may get tours and experience packages for a hassle-free trip. A DIY itinerary is much feasible, too.
It is wet and partly cloudy all year round in Norfolk. Rains are least heavy from October to March. The summer season is mild and cool. The country experiences an average of 1 snow day per year.
Norfolk Outfit Packing List
- Sneakers
- Raincoat
- Light Jacket
- Beachwear
- Pants or jeans
- Long dress
- Leggings
- Sunblock and insect repellant
2. Yorkshire
If you are already in the United Kingdom, you will love this next entry on the list of top 10 travel destinations this year. A 2-hr train travel from London will get you straight to a country home to a World Heritage Site, Saltaire. National parks and world-famous coastlines are waiting for you. It is the perfect getaway to escape from the busy, chaotic world while embracing nature’s art and Victorian architecture.
Covid-19 Requirements
If arriving from a different country to UK, prepare for the following requirements:
- 10-day quarantine in a government hotel (1750 GBP) Certificate of Entry
- COVID-19 negative swab test result taken within 72 hours prior to departure to UK.
- Two pre-booked COVID-19 Tests (for day 2 and day 8 of quarantine)
In lieu of the national lockdown, UK is closed for tourist flight. Yorkshire is yet to announce when they will be opening their territory. Announcements change so make sure to update yourself.
Where to go:
- Market Weighton
- Bridlington Coast
- Beverly Minister
- Georgian Town Centre, Howden
Important Details
The east of Yorkshire is known have rich medieval sites. The whole part of the county is an attraction itself. With preserved architecture to agricultural soils, this is the perfect site to feel what it is like during the middle ages.
This part of UK has an oceanic climate. Rainfall is a possibility all through the year. Account for the prevalent humidity. Summer (June to August) is the most visited month with cool and comfortable temperature. Winter (December to February) is a good season to go if you want to avoid the crowds. Daytime temperature is between 5.9 to 9.2oC. Spring season (March to May) offers travelers a lot of attractions, too, without the busyness of Summer.
Yorkshire Outfit Packing List
Summer:
- Light jacket or fleece
- Waterproof shoes
- Standard footwear
- Socks
- Raincoat or umbrella
- Dresses and shirts
- Long sleeves
- Long skirts or pants
Fall/Spring:
- Fleeces and socks
- Scarf
- Waterproof shoes
- Standard footwear
- Socks
- Raincoat or umbrella
- Jacket or coat
- Warm pants or jeans
- Thermal shirts
Winter:
- Thermal pants or jeans
- Gloves or mittens
- Boots or sneakers paired with thick socks
- Fleeces and scarves
- Windbreaker jacket
- Thick coat
- Raincoat or umbrella
Africa
1. Botswana
Safari destinations are still open with Botswana resuming its operating last year. As a matter of fact, this is one of the most operational destinations with protocol in place. The country is known to be the safest country in Africa. The large conservation sites allow distancing and safety precautions for locals and tourists.
Covid-19 Requirements:
- Negative COVID-19 PCR Test result taken within 72 hours prior to departure
- Pass health screening upon entry
- 10-day quarantine for symptomatic tourists with COVID-19 test on day 5 or 6.
- Must be in constant communication with local health authority for the first 14 days of self-monitoring.
Where to go:
- Chobe National Park
- Tsodilo Hills
- Nxai Pan
- Moremi Game Reserve
Important Details
Any tourist who exhibits symptoms upon arrival will be required to undergo a quarantine period of 10-14 days regardless of a negative OCVID-19 result. Masks must be worn at all times.
There are fenced campsites in Chobe National Park with basic toilet facilities. Prices are starts at only 35 USD. Cottages and hotels are also available for your convenience. The best time to visit is from May to October where the season is dry and warm during the day. Nights get cooler so prepare extra clothing.
Botswana Outfit Packing List
- Long-sleeves for sun protection
- Light shirt, shorts, and pants (khaki, green, and neutral colors are best to attain a safari look)
- Safari trousers for evenings
- Jackets and sweaters for colder morning and nights
- Raincoat
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Leggings
- Sunscreen and safari hat
2. Tanzania
One of the best safari destinations, Tanzania is home to world famous game reserves. If you are going on a safari tour for the first time, this African country is your best bet. There are tour packages for all budget and, as long as you meet the criteria, you won’t have to do any mandatory quarantine.
Covid-19 Requirements
- COVID-19 swab test is not a government policy but will highly depend on the following: requirement of the airline you are flying with and requirement of the country of departure.
- Symptomatic passenger will have to commit to an enhanced health screening and may be tested for the virus.
- Full protective measures are observed at all times (masks, face shield, distancing, other precautions prescribed by the management).
Where to go:
- Serengeti National Park (Best! See packages here for as low as 1800 USD)
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area
- Lake Manyara National Park
- Mount Kilimanjaro
Important Details
Visa is required for most countries. Australia, Canada, and UK nationals have a 150 USD visa fee upon entry while US passport holders can avail multiple-entry visa for 100 USD. For other nationalities, check with your consulate.
The best time to visit highly depends on the activity you want to prioritize. For game safaris, visit between January to March. For birdwatching, schedule from October to April. Kilimajo treks are open all-year round but not that rainy season start on March to May. Avoid making physical contacts with opposite sex in public, this may be offensive to some locals.
Tanzania Outfit Packing List
Summer:
- Light Shirts
- Safari trousers or shorts
- Fleece or warm jacket for colder morning and night time.
- Swimsuit
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sandals or slippers
- Dust protection (shades, bandana, safari hat)
- Warm sweater (if travelling from June to August)
Mediterranean
1. Turkey
Turkey is a Where to go for most travelers because this is where you can experience a unique euro-asia culture. Luckily, it is also one of the first countries to re-open its boarders for tourism. Aside from the local curfew and age restrictions, the country has pretty much came back to life.
Covid-19 Requirements:
- Negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to departure.
- Fill-up Turkey Entrance Form within 72 hours upon arrival
- Symptomatic passengers will undergo another test upon arrival.
As of the latest announcement, flights from Brazil, UK, South Africa, and Denmark are not allowed.
Where to go:
- The Blue Mosque
- Hagia Sophia
- Grand Bazaar
- Hot air balloon in Cappadocia
Important Details
A weekend curfew is being implemented for locals starting every 9 PM Friday up to 5 AM, Monday. Turkish people aged 20-65 years old will only be allowed to go out for essential errands. Foreigners are exempted but this affects the local atmosphere where most shops are closed.
Turkey has extreme weather. Summers have an average of 30oC temperature while winter can go down up to -13oC depending on the exact climate zone. The spring (April – May) and fall season (September – October) are the best months where the weather is moderate.
Turkey Outfit Packing List
Winter:
- Insulated outdoor jacket / winter jacket
- Light raincoat
- Warm long sleeves
- Long skirts or pants
- Thermal leggings
- Warm gloves or mittens
- Winter boots or sneakers with thermal socks
- Warm scarf
Fall/Spring:
- Raincoat or umbrella
- Windbreaker jacket
- Spring coat
- Light gloves
- Boots or sneakers
- Scarf
Summer:
- Loose cotton clothing
- Jacket for evenings
- Trousers or mid-way skirts
- Sunblock
- Hat
- Sneakers or comfortable sandals
Visiting Mosques:
- No clothing showing shoulders, cleavage, and knees
- Long sleeves
- Long skirts or pants
- Headscarf for Muslim women
2. Greece
Greece houses 18 UNESCO World Heritage sites. Its current landscape is reflection of its rich history and culture. The Greek coastlines are a Where to go too if you want to indulge in a whole new beach experience.
The Greek government has opened its boarders to tourists of EU countries. It is also one of the first countries to incorporate vaccines to its protocol. By summer, they may no longer allow swab test for tourists who have already taken the COVID-19 vaccine.
Covid-19 Requirements
- Negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours prior to arrival
- Fill in Passenger Locator Form 48 hours prior to entry
Where to go:
- Oia Village, Santorini
- Mykonos Island
- Meteora Monasteries
- Ruins of Knossos
Important Details
The Greek government has been imposing nationwide lockdown. Plan your travel accordingly. Booking a package will assist you with getting the documents should you wish to tour different cities. There is a nighttime curfew in place from 9PM to 5AM. A weekend curfew from 7PM Friday to 5AM Monday is expanded to high COVID areas like Athens and Thessaloniki.
The best time to visit Greece is from spring to early summer (mid of April to mid of June) and Fall (Sept to mid of Oct). Summer has inflated costs but is loved by tourists who want to experience the Greek heat. Winter is not as harsh, but summer can hit a 35oC temperature.
Greece Outfit Packing List
- Pants or skirts
- Loose comfortable shirts
- Jacket or layers for the cold days
- Comfortable sneakers or sandals
- Dresses
- Swimwear
- Hats and shades
America
1. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is one of the few travel destinations not requiring a negative COVID-19 swab test. Instead, it is mandatory to avail a health insurance from approved local companies. The cost depends on the age and length of stay but typically ranges between 10 to 22 USD per person.
This country prides itself from being one of the few whose 25% of territory is protected. With 4 UNESCO world heritage sites, its biodiversity is impeccable and a must-have experience for nature-loving travelers.
Covid-19 Requirements:
- Completed health pass form submitted 48 hours prior to departure
- Health or travel insurance availed from approved Costa Rican companies
- Full itinerary (insurance requirement)
Where to go:
- Puerto Viejo
- Cahuita Village
- Corcovado National Park
- Arenal Volcano National Park
Important Details
Travelling in Costa Rica is not as cheap as what others think. Food can the same like in the US while gas is twice as much. Getting a tour package for as low as 87 USD can save you much and will also help keep you withing the budget. Aside from that, is known to have unpredictable traffic because most highways only have one lane. Take advantage of local’s street knowledge when you include transportation in your arranged tour.
Costa Rica Outfit Packing List:
- Loose shirts
- Tank tops
- Sundresses
- Shorts
- Swimwear
- Sunblock
- Hats and shades
- Jacket for microclimate
2. Belize
Belize, not known for many, is another culture hot pot. It is geographically located in Central America but is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations headed by Queen Elizabeth II. That is why it may not be technically one of the best cities to visit in USA, but it surely deserves this spot on the top 10 travel destinations to visit. Many languages are spoken here, and the place has wide cultural influences from Native Americans, Spanish, to Chinese and Lebanese.
Belize’s hidden beauty is open to travelers. COVID-19 test may be done prior to departure or in the airport for 50 USD. Other protocols are in place in tourist attractions like mask-wearing and social distancing.
Covid-19 Requirements
- Negative COVID-19 test taken within 96 hours prior to arrival (in-airport testing is also available upon arrival for 50 USD)
- Booking at an approved Gold Standard Hotels
- Belize Health mobile app downloaded and installed in your device 72 hours prior to arrival
Where to go:
- Ambergris Caye
- Great Blue Hole
- Altun Ha Archeological Site
- Lamanai Archeological Site
Important Details
The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with seven protected areas. It has the largest barrier reef located in the northern hemisphere (2nd in the world). English is the official language and English-speaking visitors would find it easy to communicate with the locals.
The perfect time to visit Belize is during their dry season (December to April). The cost will be higher, but it will make-up for the sunny weather. Expect a lot of rains and even typhoons for the rest of the year.
Belize Outfit Packing List
- Comfortable casual dress (t-shirts, trousers, shorts, jeans, blouse)
- Hiking and walking shoes
- Easy-pack raincoat
- Beachwear
- Sunblock
- Hat and shades
To Wrap It Up
There are many adjustments and requirements to travel in this new normal. With this list of the top 10 travel destinations in the world that you should visit this year, you can still experience the joy of travelling despite the world’s pandemic. Watch yourself always, do the necessary precautions. Let us help fight the virus, while still experiencing what life has to offer.
What’s Next?
Learn more about how you can explore top travel destinations here!