Global Destinations You Can Visit Now
Wanderlust With Us - Issue XXXIV
March 25, 2021
Global Destinations You Can Visit Now
As we do every week, we are limiting our list to ten. So, in case you're wondering where's Belize? Montenegro? Tanzania? Thanks to you, we're busy booking travel, so we're sticking to ten. We hear rumbles every day: Canada may open the border in June! Cruises will resume in the summer! However, if we've learned nothing else from this year, it is to proceed with caution as we saw parts of Europe, like France and Italy, go back into lockdown just this week. We kept this pattern in mind when we made this list and focused primarily on destinations that are either opening with vaccines or have been widely open for six months or more. So, if you are ready to stop lusting and wander now, we hope this whets your appetite.
Egypt
Egypt is experiencing a renaissance of sorts with new offerings such as the St. Regis Almasa and AMA Waterway's new AMA Dahlia, embarking this fall. Or charter your own vessel on a private Nile cruise with just six luxurious cabins. But the value proposition is also incredible with the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo (one of the four Egypt properties operated by Four Seasons) starting at just over $100 per night or splurge on a 1200sq ft suite for just under $600 per night - live like a pharaoh! Travelers must have a printed negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test result in Arabic or English. The test must be taken within 96 hours before departure.
Maldives
Escape to the overwater bungalows that are second to none in the world. Go to relax and recharge or go for ocean adventures like surfing, diving, fishing, or cruising with dolphins. There's too many fabulous resort options to mention, so you can island hop if time allows and treat yourself to multiple atoll experiences or make yourself at home on your own private island. Be a castaway, luxury style. Travelers must have a printed or electronic negative COVID-19 PCR test result. The test must be taken within 96 hours before departure from the first point of departure to the Maldives.
Morocco
Consider Morocco October-April (think Arizona weather with some humidity around the coast). While you could do a quick dash into Marrakesh with fabulous hotels and intriguing sites, to do the destination justice you really need ten to twelve days. Be prepared for some drive times to explore the most interesting areas from Fes to the Atlas Mountains, the blue city of Ourrzazate (Lawrence of Arabia, The Gladiator), and of course the desert - we recommend the Dune Camp by Dar Ahlam. Travelers must have a printed negative COVID-19 PCR test result. The test must be taken within 72 hours before departure to Morocco.
Iceland
Looking for rugged landscapes and unforgettable natural wonders? In Iceland, the sun doesn’t set from May 21st to July 21st. Ask us about possible activities under the midnight sun: hiking, diving, golfing, fishing, snorkeling, and more. Without a plethora of great hotels this may be your opportunity to rough it a bit - luxury yurt anyone? But no one goes for the accommodations, they go for the most awe-inspiring natural beauty. The exception being The Retreat at the Blue Lagoon which is a fabulous way to complete your visit. As of March 18, 2021, all those who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 will be allowed to travel to Iceland without being subject to border measures, such as testing and quarantine.
Turkey
While Istanbul is one of the greatest cities in the world with stellar weather right now and into the summer. Many travelers overlook Bodrum as a beach destination with fabulous spas and a jetset vibe - one of the best in the Mediterranean. And speaking of the sea, what about chartering your own gulet - our preferred way to visit the enchanting towns along the stunning Turkish coast. And as a bonus incentive, Turkish Airlines has amazing business class pricing from the US. Travelers must have a printed or electronic negative COVID-19 PCR test result. The test must be taken within 72 hours before departure to Turkey.
Costa Rica
No PCR test required and easy to get to with a slew of offerings, this adventure destination boasts great year round weather for the excursion bound traveler interested in hiking, jungle trekking, exploring the wildlife, and finishing it off with a couple of days by the beach. For the adventurer, we recommend Nayara's tented camp and for those looking for a little more posh setting cool down with a Verde Que Te Quiero Verde at the Four Seasons Papagayo juice bar, but don't miss the Imperial Light Michelada. US Citizens need to show proof of approved medical insurance. Check out our recent blog and review of Costa Rica.
Kenya
Authentic Africa, full of plentiful game, it's a safari experience great for families or even honeymooners. There is something romantic about sleeping in a tent overlooking the Mara and watching the sun come up. You'll see no shortage of Lion, Elephants, Zebra, Leopard, Rhino, Hippo, and even Crocodiles if you're near the Mara River. While overnighting in Nairobi we always arrange a visit to the elephant orphanage and the giraffe center. No photos, words, or videos can do it justice. Travelers must have a negative COVID-19 PCR test result. The test must be taken within 96 hours before departure to Kenya and the result must be digitally verified through the Trusted Travel (TT) Initiative.
Panama
With a PCR test 48-hours prior to arrival with many nonstop flights from US hubs, Panama has been an off the radar and still yet undiscovered gem. The beauty in that is it is far less crowded than other Central America destinations. We have two outstanding properties to tempt you: the stunning Isla Secas and, for an exclusive buyout for your best friends or family, Sweet Bocas. Travelers must have a negative COVID-19 PCR or antigen test result. The test must be taken within 48 hours before arrival in Panama.
Rwanda
Gorilla trekking is a once in a lifetime experience. Only Rwanda and Uganda offer the opportunity to visit gorillas in their native environment, but we favor Rwanda simply because of the over the top fantastic lodges, both of which opened in 2019: One & Only Gorilla's Nest and Singita Kwitonda. Children need to be fifteen or over to trek and you want to be in reasonably good shape to hike to where you can see the gorilla families. We do recommend the Genocide Memorial in Kigali, while if focuses on heavy subject matter our clients have thanked us for suggesting the visit. Often times an overnight in Kigali is necessary due to international flight times. All travelers are required to take a COVID-19 RT-PCR test at the airport at their own expense. Travelers will be required to quarantine at an approved hotel until they receive a negative COVID-19 result
Peru
Choose your own adventure whether you want to hike Machu Picchu or arrive via Belmond's luxury train, Hiram Bingham. Maybe it's an Amazon River experience to see pink dolphins or some R&R at Lake Titilaka. A well known destination for exquisite cuisine, Peru is rich in culture and a allows for a plethora of experiences. Plan at least ten days (twelve is even better) as Peru provides an excellent value proposition with more moderate pricing than you will find in other like minded destinations. Negative COVID test required upon arrival at Lima airport.
Honorable Mentions:
Dubai - see Maldives, Kenya, or Rwanda, above and plan a layover. Works great with Emirates.
Colombia - it's hard to give it just an honorable mention when the food scene is incredible. Between Cartagena, Bogota, and Medellin, we can keep you active during your entire trip. Please note, not all flights have resumed to/from Columbia, so it's not quite as convenient to travel to, but it will be soon!
