From the white-sand beaches of the Caribbean Ocean, to the luxurious top-tier resorts in Dubai, the world still has a lot to offer despite the COVID-19 pandemic that has made international travel a bit more challenging than ever.
Spain has historically been one of the Europeans’ most visited destinations in winter thanks to its privileged Mediterranean temperatures.
However, the never-ending lockdowns and the storms hitting the country are making residents, locals and visitors think about other potential destinations to run away from what is left of winter.
Here is a compilation of the best destinations to visit from Spain.
Mexico
Putting aside its white-sand beaches, delicious tacos and never-ending tequila parties, Mexico is a truly sunny treasure trove.
With ancient ruins and remains of the Aztec and Mayan cultures mixed with Spanish colonial cities, Mexico brings an interesting contrast between modern life and wild nature.
The country has never closed its doors to international travelers in spite of the COVID-19 pandemic. Most tourist attractions, businesses and hotels are open providing visitors the opportunity to forget about the strict lockdowns back home.
So far, visitors only require filling out a health form upon arrival. Proof a negative PCR test or quarantine are not required to come to this destination.
Tanzania – Zanzibar
Zanzibar isn’t like the mainland. This semi-autonomous archipelago claims its own culture, food, lifestyle and even its own unique way to keep time.
Locals will start counting time at sunrise rather than at midnight. This could be a bit confusing at first, quickly becomes part of a unique travel experience.
Fights in and out Tanzania continue to operate on a regular basis. As in any other country in the world, the number of people visiting has decreased so visitors are reaping the benefits of a more client-center attention and less packed tours to the Serengeti in the mainland or the sea activities in Zanzibar.
The Tanzanian government has not imposed any restrictions related to the use of masks, social distancing or PCR or quarantine upon entry.
Egypt
Egypt does not need an introduction. Home to the Great Pyramids of Giza, the only survivor of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, ancient Egyptians’ statues and tombs and lots of archeological mystery, Egypt is one of the most interesting places to visit with or without a pandemic.
However, more than ever, this may be just the best time to visit this country. In a bit to boost the tourism industry, the country has launched a tourism program called “Enjoy your Winter in Egypt”.
From January 15 to February 28, archaeological sites and museums in Egypt’s Qena, Luxor, and Aswan governorates will be reducing entry tickets to up to 50% and airlines will be changing 20% less in international flights.
All visitors must bring a negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate taken within 72 hours before departure to avoid quarantine.
Costa Rica
The wilderness of Costa Rica is more inviting than ever. Costa Rica is home to volcanoes, cloud forests, huge waterfalls, incredible wildlife and Caribbean and Pacific Ocean beaches.
All accommodations have been modified to meet government standards for social distancing, sanitation and cleaning.
Limited facilities and tourist attractions capacity are giving travelers a more intimate experience, which makes for ideal conditions for travelers looking to explore Costa Rica.
Most tourists are not required to present a negative COVID-19 test result or quarantine.
Filling out an epidemiological Health Pass and providing proof of health insurance to cover medical treatments and quarantine lodging while in Costa Rica will suffice.
UAE – Dubai, Abu Dhabi
From modern architecture, natural islands, world-class museums and an astonishing desert shifting sand dunes and cool oases, Abud Dhabi checks all the reasons to be considered a luxury gateway this winter.
Once travelers are free from their COVID-19 test upon entry, this multicultural city is open to offer all types of entertaining activities regardless of their age and interest.
Every two weeks, Abu Dhabi updates its green country list.
The city really cares about its visitors’ safety. In order to be granted access, visitors must submit a negative PCR COVID-19 test result taken 96 hours before departure, and agree to take another one upon arrival.
Visitors planning to stay longer than 3 days must take an additional PCR test on the 4th day and a last one of the 8th day.
Canary Islands, Spain
This iconic Spanish destination is open and ready to offer visitors a spot on its paradisiac beaches, luxurious resorts, and the best waves for surfing on this side of the planet.
All touristic activities in La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro are allowed. The same with Fuerteventura and Tenerife, albeit with a few restrictions.
The best news? Inter-island traveling is now allowed, so travelers can visit all islands on the same trip.
Hotels, restaurants, sports facilities, transport and markets are all open as are beaches and water sports.
Travelers from the mainland only need a negative PCR test taken in the 72 prior to landing, and proof of accommodation (only if they have one).