crippled. Shocked. Crushed. These are just some of the many words that can be applied to the tourism sector after two long years of COVID-19. Indeed, while most industries have felt the effects of government-imposed restrictions and social distancing, very few have been hit as hard as tourism.
Consider the latest statistics from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). Although international tourist arrivals grew by 4% in 2021, they remained at a staggering 72% compared to pre-pandemic levels.
Luckily, things are finally starting to get better.
With vaccination rates rising, restrictions eased, and countries learning to live with the virus, borders near and far are now reopening—much to the delight of travel-hungry people around the world! Suddenly, after a few months of being chained to one place, the opportunity to pamper your itchy feet appears again.
But where exactly is it open? Which countries accept tourists? And, most importantly, which ones should be at the top of your wish list?
Keep reading to find the answers to these questions and discover the top 7 travel destinations you missed during the pandemic.
Australia
Having been closed to foreigners since early 2020, Australia finally reopened its borders to fully vaccinated travelers on February 21 this year.
It’s certainly not the most accessible place on this list, but the stunning weather, gorgeous beaches, unique scenery, and fun-loving locals more than justify the effort to get there. From the striking red splendor of Mount Uluru to the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, expect to be enchanted and entertained at every turn on any adventure on the Earth below.
Costa Rica
Sandwiched between Panama and Nicaragua, Costa Rica offers budget travelers a little piece of Central American paradise. Upon completion of the Health Pass*, you will have access to a land of vast biodiversity, spectacular national parks, beautiful sunshine, and first-class restaurants and restaurants.
If that wasn’t enough, Costa Rica also has a reputation for being one of the happiest places on earth, providing visitors with a taste of “Pura Vida” (its famous motto, meaning “pure life”). After two years of confinement due to COVID-19, this is sure to be a tempting prospect.
* This will be discontinued from April 1st, which will remove any remaining restrictions.
Greece
Proud, ancient, and picture-perfect, it’s no surprise that Greece draws hordes of tourists to its shores every year. Among its countless attractions are charming millennia-old monuments, endless sun-drenched islands to explore, and some of the finest white sand beaches in the entire world.
While COVID rates remain high, entry is allowed for US citizens who can show proof of vaccination, a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to departure (or a negative antigen test within 24 hours), or proof of recovery.
France
As one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, anyone with a growing sense of travel will be happy to know that France is now reopened to both vaccinated and unvaccinated visitors.
The incidence is high and restrictions remain (especially for the unvaccinated). However, for any Francophile, the rewards of visiting this cultural center may outweigh the costs. Get ready to enjoy fine food and even more exquisite wine in a diverse scenic landscape rich in unique historical and natural attractions.
Philippines
The Philippines are a group of idyllic islands in the Western Pacific. A true paradise on earth, travelers can look forward to rich biodiversity, wonderful natural landscapes, crystal clear turquoise waters, and a colorful culture that accompanies the tropical fauna and flora on offer.
One look at the pristine palm fronds and white sand beaches is enough to convince most people to put the Philippines on their bucket list. What’s more, recent legislative changes mean that anyone who can show proof of vaccination can go.
Iceland
Iceland is a country of natural wonders. Northern Lights turn the night sky a ghostly green, waterfalls rage down the towering cliffs, dramatic canyons cut through the landscape, and natural hot springs provide a luxurious escape from the icy air. Raw, wild and unspoiled, it would be the perfect retreat for outdoor enthusiasts hoping to spread their wings and visit foreign shores.
As of February 25, Iceland has also lifted all remaining travel restrictions. Now it’s as accessible as anywhere in the world: no pre-registration, no PCR tests, no quarantine on arrival, no vaccinations required.
Malta
This tiny archipelago in the middle of the Mediterranean is another great European travel destination. Largely due to its fascinating (albeit turbulent) history, Malta has a special atmosphere, an abundance of unique tourist attractions and a peculiar cultural mix unlike anything else on the planet.
Among the many attractions are giant age-old fortresses, otherworldly landscapes and 300 days of sunshine a year! For those who love history, sun, pristine beaches and Game of Thrones (many scenes of which were filmed here), Malta is hard to beat.
Travel restrictions are being eased, but standard COVID rules apply. These include providing a certificate of vaccination and completing a public health declaration form. Unvaccinated persons must be quarantined at the hotel for 10 days upon arrival.
Visit These Top Travel Destinations in 2022
After two years of pandemic-related restrictions, the travel industry looks set to finally get a breather. International borders are finally reopening, just in time to meet unmet travel demand!
With any luck, the destinations in this article will whet the appetite of anyone who decides to leave in the near future. Due to the lack of options over the past few years, accrued frequent flyer miles and cashback app travel booking discounts will go a long way towards making any destination on the list more accessible.
Careful note to close though:
The outlook seems positive, but history teaches us that things can change in the blink of an eye. Although the countries on this list are open at the time of writing, there is no guarantee that they will remain so. To avoid disappointment, be sure to check the latest CDC guidelines before booking your tickets.
Featured Image Credit: Pexels.