No one wants to dwell on the past. However, while we witnessed progress in terms of traveling last year, there were still some setbacks. With the emergence of the coronavirus variant, Omicron, and increasing concerns about crime and personal safety, it seemed only apropos to focus on some of the best options. 

This was assembled based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance, U.S. State Department advisories, and info from the 2021 Global Peace Index (GPI)—which rates over 160 nations across the globe based on the amount of security, societal safety, ongoing international and domestic conflict and militarization, and crime-related data from the Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection List. Here then, are nine of the safest places to travel.

9 Of The Safest Places To Travel

1.  The United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates, or UAE, is situated at the eastern end of Western Asia’s Arabian Peninsula. Its capital is the scenic city of Abu Dhabi. Its most populous city is the coveted destination of Dubai which is also an international hub.

This is perhaps one of at least a dozen different nations to earn a Level 1 travel advisory in 2022. The CDC reports that there is a “low level of COVID-19” here. It’s slotted in at 26 on the GPI. Be on your best behavior as flogging is still a legal punishment here.

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The British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands, a.k.a. BVI or the Virgin Islands, are located in the Caribbean, northwest of Anguilla and east of the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. This British Overseas Territory also started the new year with a Level 1 travel advisory from both the CDC and the US State Department. Officials here have just eased entry protocols for all fully vaccinated travelers. Highlights here include the popular Baths National Park, Devil’s Bay Beach, and Spring Bay Beach. Need some privacy? Look into a stay on the privately-owned isle named Little Thatch.

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Jamaica

Jamaica is located in the Caribbean Sea just south of Cuba. This island nation kicks off 2022 with a Level 2 travel advisory from the CDC and the US State Department. Officials suggest that travelers be careful because of COVID and the amount of crime there. The CDC reports a moderate level of coronavirus present on the island. It is famous for its beach fun and seafood. It’s also a popular romantic getaway. Honeymooners not only enjoy strolling hand-in-hand along the sand. They also can enjoy the numerous pubs and beachfront nightclubs there.

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The Bahamas

If you crave fun in the sun, and glee in the sea then the Bahamas is the safe place to be. The islands scored a Level 2 travel advisory from both the CDC and the US State Department just last month. Local officials told the press that this is evidence that their official protocols and various protective measures to stave off COVID-19 there are working. As regular readers already know, favored activities there include a visit to Paradise Island, swimming with the pigs at Pig Beach, and horseback riding on Little San Salvador Island. 

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Fiji

This island nation is located in Melanesia, Oceania in the South Pacific, and is open although COVID-19 testing requirements are in place. The country is starting the new year with a Level 1 travel advisory from both the CDC and the US State Department. The CDC adds there is only a “low level” of the coronavirus present here.

Looking for recommendations? As previously reported elsewhere on the website, Dolphin Island is a great option here. This unique isle possesses what veteran visitors say is a certain “breathtaking beauty” that’s both “surreal” and nigh heavenly.  

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Grenada

The island nation of Grenada, found in the West Indies in the Caribbean was given a Level 2 Travel Health Notice due to a moderate level of the virus. The US State Department is currently advising all travelers to “exercise increased caution” as well. The popular Spice Isle is open to visitors with COVID-19 vaccinations and testing and quarantine protocols are in place.

Grenada has always been listed as being a good value to travelers because of its significantly lower guest-to-staff ratio. Highlights include beautiful beaches, colorful markets, jade-colored waterfalls, lovely lakes, and spice plantations. 

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Canada

Located in North America across the northern US border, Canada is the world’s second-largest country. It is often listed as one of the world’s safest countries too. Due to COVID, the country started the new year with a Level 3 travel advisory from both the CDC and the US State Department. Still, if you are not at risk, it’s good to know that Canada slots in at number 12 on last year’s GPI and at number three on the Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection List of “the safest places to travel to” this year.

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Iceland

While the US State Department and CDC are advising against travel to Iceland and most of the other nations around the world last month because COVID-19 remains a global issue, this breathtakingly gorgeous European island nation still tops the GPI list and the Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection’s list of “safest places to travel” this year. Also known as the land of Fire and Ice, Iceland offers visitors multiple travel experiences on a single platter, from the unexpectedly urban vibe of the capital city of Reykjavik to the isolated, castaway landscapes.

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New Zealand

The attractive island country of New Zealand in the southwestern Pacific Ocean pretty much posted “Off Limits” since the pandemic started in 2020. Indeed, the nation was known for some of the strictest pandemic regulations and border policies on the planet. As noted in a previous piece, many of us are hoping that they will soon be welcoming tourists again. After all, New Zealand took third place on last year’s GPI and second place on the Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection’s list of “the safest places to travel” this year. It’s a great place for hikers and movie buffs who want to see where The Lord of the Rings film franchise was shot.

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The US has a significant number of coronavirus cases.  Thus, some other countries are concerned. Many US tourists are sticking close to home taking short trips, some still long to travel abroad.  For those folks, here is a list of other countries currently welcoming Americans:

Albania

Situated in Southeast Europe on the beautiful Adriatic Sea, Albania is open for business.  According to the US Embassy website, there are no specific Covid-19 health test requirements or quarantine, but you’ll undergo a general health screening.

Antigua and Barbuda

The official tourism website states all US tourists over age 12 “arriving by air must present a negative Covid-19-RT PCR test result, taken within seven days of their flight” and two-week health monitoring. Masks are required.

Aruba

All US travelers 15 and up must complete a health assessment.  All arrivals regardless of origin must have recent negative test results and purchase specific health insurance.  See the Aruba tourism site for the rather lengthy details.

The Bahamas

An online health visa is required.  Five days or less before leaving, a negative Covid-19 RT-PCR test result must be uploaded.  As of November 1, the quarantine will be replaced by a rapid test upon arriving there.  

Bangladesh

The US Embassy in Bangladesh notes that US travelers are required to have a “medical certificate with English translation” declaring that within 72 hours he/she has tested negative for Covid-19 and “home quarantine” for two weeks.

Barbados

The US Embassy reports that US travelers submit an online form one day prior to their trip, submit a negative Covid-19 PCR test result no older than 72 hours, and quarantine up to two weeks upon arrival.

Belarus

Despite recent reports of protests, US Embassy officials state that as this goes to press, Belarus is open to US travelers.  There are no unusual restrictions, although visitors must clear a temperature check in Minsk National Airport.

Belize

This Central American gem is requiring all international visitors to download the official Belize Health App and provide a negative Covid-19 PCR test result no older than three days.  You may also pay $50.00 and be tested there.

Bermuda

Visitors to Bermuda must pay  $75.00 per adult and $30 for children 9 and under to apply for a travel authorization.  A negative Covid-19 PCR must be presented upon arrival.  Additional tests are required during the first two weeks.

Brazil

The US State Department officially advises citizens not to travel here “due to Covid-1.”  Nevertheless, Brazil permits any visitors to enter providing they can show proof of health insurance valid during their entire visit.  No tests are required.

Cambodia

A Cambodian adventure costs $2,000.00.  You need a negative Covid-19 test result that’s no more than three days old.  Upon arrival, you’re tested again and then again on the 13th day of a mandatory two-week quarantine.

Colombia

Upon arriving in Colombia you’ll need to show a negative Covid-19 PCR test result that is no more than 96 hours old.  There is no mandatory quarantine period although they’ve had over 1 million confirmed coronavirus cases.

Costa Rica

As of November 1st, US citizens are required to complete a special “health pass” form indicating they have tested negative for the virus in the last two days.  You must also have proof of health insurance.

Croatia

The US Embassy in Zagreb reports that upon arrival tourists must show proof of a negative Covid-19 PCR test, ”not older than 48 hours (starting from the time of taking the swab until arrival at the border crossing).”

Curaçao

As of November 1st, Curaçao will reopen to US citizens from specific states. Travelers must complete digital documentation at dicardcuracao.com, upload their negative Covid-19 PCR test results within two days before departure, and have a current state-issued ID.

Dominica

Visitors must provide a negative Covid-19 PCR test result, recorded no more than 72 hours prior to arrival, and complete the electronic Immigration and Customs documentation one day before traveling.  Expect additional screening and testing upon arrival.

Dominican Republic

Proof of a negative PCR Covid-19 test isn’t necessary here.  Officials give official breath tests to 10 percent of randomly selected arrivals and/or to any individual displaying any symptoms.  A pre-entry health affidavit is required.

Dubai

The Visit Dubai website indicates that travelers must present a negative Covid-19 PCR test result (under four days old), and proof of medical insurance.  They’re also “required to register all their details in the Covid-19 DXB app on arrival.” 

Ecuador

US visitors can avoid quarantine here by providing proof of a negative Covid-19 PCR test taken within the past 10 days.  They’ll you there if you will quarantine at an officially-approved place while you await the results.

Egypt

All visitors over the age of five must show physical paper proof of a negative PCR Covid-19 test no more than three days old.  They are especially welcome in the temples, museums, and archaeological sites of Aswan and Luxor. 

Ethiopia

Prior to boarding their flight, all United States citizens must provide proof of a negative Covid-19 RT PCR exam no more than five days old.  This East African nation also enforces a two-week quarantine.

French Polynesia

Before boarding your plane to French Polynesia, you’ll need to show proof of a negative Covid-19 test less than 72 hours old, fill out a “sanitary entry form”, agree to report symptoms, and submit to additional potential testing.

Ghana

Unless you’re an online scammer, you need to present a negative Covid-19 PCR test result less than three days old.  You must also submit to a temperature screening and a second test that’ll cost you $150.00  

Grenada

Proof of a negative Covid-19 PCR test no older than 1 week is required.  You must also have at least a four-day reservation at quarantine-approved accommodations.  A second exam is required to leave your hotel.

Guatemala

Travelers 10 years and older must show proof of a negative Covid-19 PCR test result that is no older than 72 hours when they arrive in this Central American nation.  There is no quarantine period.

Haiti

The US Embassy in Haiti confirms travelers must fill out a “health form” and agree to a two-week self-quarantine.  Additionally, “The Ministry of Public Health will check in with passengers three times . . .to determine any onset of Covid-19 symptoms.”

Honduras

To travel to Honduras tourists need either a serology test or a recent negative Covid-19 PCR exam.  If you have any obvious symptoms you may also be required to quarantine for an unspecified time.

Ireland

Unlike some other countries, Ireland never had a ban on US travelers.  Nevertheless, you must still complete a two-week quarantine and complete an official “passenger locator form.”

Jamaica

All visitors 12 and up must complete an online “travel authorization” and upload negative Covid-19 exam results to get travel authorization. The test must be less than 10 days old.  There may be additional tests once upon arrival. 

Kenya

To visit Kenya one only needs a negative Covid-19 test result that’s under 96 hours old and “pass a strict health screening.”  There is no quarantine period in this East African nation.

The Maldives

Visitors must show a negative result for a Covid-19 PCR exam that’s less than three days old.  The Maldives has no enforced quarantine at this time. 

Malta

American citizens may enter Malta only via a “safe corridor country” but must have been quarantined for two weeks in the previous country.  Prior to leaving they must complete the Passenger Locator and Public Health Travel Declaration forms as well.

Mexico

Regardless of any border closures, American travelers can fly to Mexico. There are no testing requirements at present, but visitors should expect a temperature check and other possible screenings at the airport.  

Montenegro

Visitors aged six and older need to show proof of a positive coronavirus antibody test result or a three-day-old (or less) negative Covid-19 PCR test result.  There is no quarantine for anyone with proof of a negative result.

Morocco

According to the US Embassy, Morocco is only open to certain US visitors.  All visitors must have a printed, negative Covid-19 PCR test less than two days old or a serological exam.  There’s also a mandatory health screening.

Namibia

US citizens need a negative Covid-19 PCR test result that’s less than 72 hours old.  There’s a health screening at the airport.  There’s no enforced quarantine but you’re tested again if you stay more than four days.

North Macedonia

North Macedonia in Southeast Europe requires no tests or mandatory quarantine.  They do, however, thermally-screen all arriving travelers regardless of country of origin.

Panama

Travelers need to show proof of an antigen test or Covid-19 PCR exam with a negative result, taken two days or less before arriving.  With an older test, you’ll be given “a rapid Covid-19 test” upon arrival. 

Rwanda

International visitors are required to show a negative Covid-19 PCR test of your flight to this country. They are also tested upon arrival, quarantined in a local hotel, and learn the results within 24 hours. 

Senegal

Authorities state that in order to enter, all visitors age 3 and older must present “an original Covid-19 PCR test certificate with a negative result” taken 120 hours or less to their arrival date.  There’s no quarantine.

Serbia

Unless you are coming from Bulgaria, Croatia, North Macedonia, or Romania, Americans must complete an official self-assessment form and show a less than two-day-old negative Covid-19 PCR test result to visit this landlocked European country.

South Korea

The US Embassy & Consulate in the Republic of Korea reports that Americans “traveling to [South] Korea from the United States as tourists on the 90-day visa-waiver program do not need a Covid-19 test prior to travel but will be tested upon arrival … and may be subject to quarantine in government facilities at their own expense.”

St. Barts

The island of St. Barts requires visitors to present proof of a negative Covid-19 PCR exam result, taken within three days.  If you stay longer than a week you must pay $150.00 for a new test.

St. Kitts and Nevis

This beautiful Caribbean island federation reopened for Halloween.  As this goes to press, no official Covid-19 safety protocols have been officially announced and confirmed.  Still, having a negative Covid-19 PCR test handy wouldn’t hurt.  

St. Lucia

American citizens visiting here must have proof of a negative Covid-19 PCR test, less than one week old, and complete an official “travel registration form.”  They must also have reservations at an officially Covid-certified hotel.  

St. Maarten

Officials say that in order to visit St. Maarten US citizens must provide proof of a negative Covid-19 PCR test “obtained from a naso-pharyngeal swab only and performed within 120 hours prior to departure.”

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

US tourists must have a negative Covid-19 PCR exam result no older than five days.  Visitors must also quarantine in an officially approved hotel for five days and submit to another Covid-19 test.

Tanzania

Travelers wishing to visit Tanzania must pass a health screening and complete a “health surveillance form.”  A Covid-19 test may also be required by the time you read this.

Turkey

Sources at the US Embassy and Consulates in Turkey confirm US citizens visiting here must fill out an information form and expect to be checked for any coronavirus symptoms.  Anyone showing symptoms will be tested and all American travelers must buy “for onward travel” to the US.

Turks and Caicos

Travelers age 10 and older must show proof of a negative Covid-19 exam result.  They must be no more than five days old.  Visitors must also fill out an official online health questionnaire and have travel medical insurance.

United Kingdom

US tourists visiting the UK must complete a mandatory, two-week quarantine.  Go to this website for specific details concerning England, Northern Ireland. Scotland, and Wales.

Zambia

In order to vacation in Zambia, you will have to show proof of a negative Covid-19 test result dated within two weeks of your arrival date.  You will not be quarantined here unless you are showing symptoms when you arrive.  

Go here for further updates on entry requirements.

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Has the coronavirus got you rethinking your travel plans? We don’t blame you. Still, if you need to get away for a while then it is a good idea to learn all you need to know about the coronavirus.

December 2019

It was December 2019 in Wuhan, China when the world learned of people becoming infected with a new strain of the coronavirus . The new strain, called COVID-19 would also soon be known as 2019-nCoV, the coronavirus disease 2019, the novel coronavirus, and the Wuhan coronavirus.

Since the first incidence of infection, this new virus has spread beyond borders and across oceans. It has also drastically impacted international travel plans as entire cities have been put under quarantine and even borders have been closed.

General Terms

In general terms, coronaviruses concern a specific family of viruses. This family impacts birds, humans, and non-human mammals. Transmission occurs between species.

General Symptoms

The symptoms reportedly vary per species. Human beings typically develop some type of respiratory illness from a coronavirus.

Infamous Coronaviruses

If anything you have seen on the news or social media gives you the feeling of deja vu, you are not alone. Anyone who wasn’t born yesterday has already seen or heard about coronaviruses in the recent past. You may recall MERS (the Middle East respiratory syndrome outbreak) and the equally well-known SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome).

Both of these coronaviruses have had historically significant outbreaks in the past two decades. COVID-19 is a more recently discovered coronavirus. The first reported human infections were reported two months ago in Wuhan, China.

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The WHO

The World Health Organization (the WHO) officially designated the COVID-19 outbreak as “a global health emergency” on January 30, of this year.

Keep Yourself Current

The current global coronavirus situation is changing rapidly. If you choose to travel you should check with the CDC (Centers for Disease Prevention) and the previously-mentioned World Health Organization for the latest developments.

The Spread Of The COVID-19

COVID-19 is presently believed to have originated in the city of Wuhan in China. It has since gone on to infect people across the globe. Mainland China remains the epicenter of the virulent virus, with almost 77,000 confirmed cases as this goes to press.

Indeed, some sources suggest that Chinese officials have not been providing accurate data. Only last month they upped the count by close to 800 cases in one day. Over 30 other countries and territories have somewhere between one and 218 confirmed cases.

The list includes Australia, Belgium, Cambodia, Canada, Finland, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Nepal, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Taiwan, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, the United States of America, and Vietnam. As this is being written, almost 1,400 people have died from COVID-19, mainly in China.

Symptoms of COVID-19

COVID-19 has three main symptoms. They are cough, fever and noticeable shortness of breath. Some speculate that one reason why the numbers seem to fluctuate so quickly is due in part to the fact that a number of the additional symptoms are comparatively mild and some individuals infected with the virus may not display any indication of being ill at all.

In extreme cases, which usually happens in individuals who have immune systems that are weakened, like the elderly or ill, a respiratory infection can be followed by organ failure, pneumonia, or even death. COVID-19 is presently said to be spread from one human to another via close contact. There is an incubation period that reportedly ranges from two days to two weeks. At present, there is no antiviral treatment, vaccine, or cure.

Individuals infected with the coronavirus but are free of any underlying complications will probably recover assuming they get plenty of rest and fluids. Should you believe that you have any signs of respiratory illness, remain at home, be sure to always cover your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, wash your hands often, and be sure to thoroughly clean and sanitize all frequently-touched surfaces. Most importantly, be sure to see your personal physician if you have recently been to China and are showing any of the previously-mentioned symptoms.

Protecting Yourself From The Coronavirus

You may have already seen travelers wearing masks. Unfortunately, masks are not guaranteed to prevent anyone from contracting the coronavirus. Masks should definitely be worn by anyone who is sneezing and coughing.

However, because they might help prevent the spread of any sickness from a common cold to COVID-19. If you are healthy but are in frequent direct contact with anyone infected, you should wear a mask. Washing your hands with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer or soap and water is said to be critical in the prevention of the spread of COVID-19.

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Travel Advisories

The US Department of State issued an official Level 4 travel advisory for China on February 2, 2020. Officials advise all US citizens to avoid traveling to China because of COVID-19. Since then American, Delta, and United Airlines have canceled every flight between the U.S.A. and China through March 27th, April 30th, and March 28th, respectively.

All United States citizens who’ve flown to the Hubei province in China are now subject to quarantine for as long as two weeks upon returning to the US. US citizens who have flown anywhere else in China are presently subjected to health screening where they enter the US. They may be monitored for as long as 14 days. Additionally, any foreign national traveling to America from China may even be denied entry to the US.

Suggested Precautions

If you still have trips booked to China in the near future or even layovers in any airport in China, think about changing your plans. You should also know that numerous airlines are currently offering passengers waivers for their change fees. As this goes to press, frequent flyers should know that it remains relatively safe to travel to other locations including nations with confirmed cases of COVID-19. Simply be sure to take every precaution to protect your health.

Stay positive . . .

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