***Disclosure: I don’t advocate for or encourage travel during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Make sure that conditions are safe in the world before you travel.***
Puerto Vallarta
Sunshine, warm beaches and a carefree agenda. That’s what Puerto Vallarta offers visitors who come to spend their vacation time there. Although travel is currently open to Mexico for those flying into the country, many people are not yet comfortable taking vacations abroad. When the times change though, Puerto Vallarta is definitely a location to be considered for your next getaway.
Located on the western coast of Mexico, Puerto Vallarta is on the same latitude as Hawaii. Did you know the amazing tropical weather that makes the Hawaiian Islands so popular can also be found in Puerto Vallarta? Unlike Hawaii, PV (as it’s often referred to) can be much less expensive to travel to, making it a popular destination to visit. With hotels lining the beaches (many of them four and five star), there are plenty of places for every budget level.
It’s also an easy location to get around, and you really don’t even need to rent a car. You can use Uber to pick you up at the airport and anywhere else you want to go. Downtown Puerto Vallarta is known for its lively nightlife and shopping area, as well as authentic Mexican restaurants.
Puerto Vallarta is definitely worth considering for your first post covid getaway!
Contributed by Karee at Our Woven Journey
Bali
Bali is probably the most famous island in Southeast Asia. This is the best place to come for culture, nightlife and some of the best beaches around. Bali is a big hotspot for remote workers and digital nomads. After COVID this is the perfect island for people looking to relax, unwind and get in touch with nature. Bali’s south has some of the best beaches for surfing and beautiful cliffs making the landscape unique.
Make sure to visit the Uluwatu Temple which is one of the most popular tourist attractions on the island. A little bit further north lies Kuta with incredible nightlife and lots of shops and bars. Then, Head inland to Ubud to get away from the crowds and experience the beauty of Bali’s rice terraces and jungles.
The Monkey Forest is an absolute must-see and perfect for a day-trip. Thousands of monkeys roam wild here among temples and it’s a great spot to go for tourists. The northern coast of Bali is a lot quieter and the best place for diving and seeing marine wildlife like dolphins. You’ll love the beautiful beaches and the serenity of this area. Bali has a lot to offer so put it on the top of your bucket list for places to visit after COVID.
Contributed by Victoria of Guide My Travel
Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik has become a really popular destination in Europe and a is also actually a perfect choice for a trip after Covid. The so-called “Pearl of the Adriatic” has a lot to offer – nature, beaches and an historic old town! In generally, there are so many amazing things to do in Dubrovnik, and so it’s worth staying there a week or more.
The city is especially famous for its historic old town, which has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1979 and attracts visitors with its many interesting sights and museums. Another important attraction is the city wall of Dubrovnik, which surrounds the entire city center with a length of about 2 kilometers. During a walk over the wall you can also enjoy a breathtaking view over the red roofs and the deep blue sea.
Whether city trip, action or nature, this destination meets all requirements. The beachesare beautiful, the water is wonderfully clear and glows in the most beautiful colors. If you like, you can grab a kayak and paddle down the beautiful coast. You will discover beautiful sea caves and hidden bays. Or you go on a boat trip and explore the beautiful island pearls like Lokrum, Lovran, Korcula or Mlijet. Another highlight is the ride on the Dubrovnik cable car, from where you will have the most amazing view of the city, the harbor and the Riviera.
Contributed by Martina & Jürgen of Places of Juma
Thailand
Thailand is without a doubt one of the most popular and most visited destinations in Southeast Asia. The country is known for its tropical islands, delicious curries, beautiful temples, and friendly people. There are so many good reasons to go to Thailand.
Thailand should be on your list of places to visit after covid because it (like so many other countries) has suffered the economic consequences of lost tourism. If you visit Thailand after the pandemic, the tourism will most likely not be back to normal at once, which would give you the opportunity to discover this wonderful country without the big crowds. There are so many things to see and do in incredible Thailand depending on where you go.
If you go North, you can visit the many elephant sanctuaries and beautiful temples in Chiang Mai. If you stay in the center of Thailand, you can explore Bangkok’s many delicious street food options or hike in the Erawan National Park West of Bangkok. If you travel South, you can explore the beautiful, laid-back beaches in Koh Tao and Koh Phangan. Thailand has so much to offer for every kind of traveler, and it would be the perfect country to go explore after the pandemic.
Contributed by Cecilie of Worldwide Walkers
Sardinia, Italy
Sardinia is the second-largest island in Italy and is one of the most spectacular places to visit in the world. It is mainly due to its rich history, outstanding beaches, fun cities, quaint villages and incredible hiking. Therefore, as there are so many exciting and different things to do, it is undoubtedly one of the best places to travel to after Covid.
Where else can you visit a UNESCO World Heritage site, Barumini, a nuraghe dating back to 1900-700 BC, hike through Europe’s largest canyon, visit enchanting beaches all in one trip? The Sardinians are proud of their island and will welcome you to it. It is a jewel in the Mediterranean, and you will have the trip of your life, especially if you decide to go on a Sardinian road trip.
Some of the best places include exploring the capital Cagliari, where you can hike the Devil’s Saddle for sunset and driving the scenic coastline to Villisimuis and admiring the electric blue water. You can also visit La Maddalena Archipelago, where you can discover hidden beaches in a magnificent national park. There are also the small towns of Bosa and Castelsardo, where you can explore ancient castles surrounded by colourful houses. There is no denying that Sardinia is picture-perfect. It is not a destination you will forget quickly.
By Rachel from Average Lives
Great Ocean Road, Australia
Australia is filled with perfect places to visit when COVID restrictions ease. From beautiful road trips to wide open spaces, there are plenty of places to explore and feel safe. One of the best places in Australia to visit after COVID restrictions are lifted in the Great Ocean Road in Victoria.
The Great Ocean Road is a windy coastal drive that stretches 243km from Torquay to Warrnambool and is often completed as part of a road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide. The Great Ocean Road was built by returning WWI soldiers between 1919 and 1932.
Your first stop on the Great Ocean Road should be Bells Beach. Bell beach is world famous as a surf beach. Even if you are not surfer it is always great fun to try a group surfing lesson. If you’d rather give surfing a miss, you can pack a picnic and enjoy the stunning views of the coast.
The most famous stops along the Great Ocean Road are the 12 apostles. The 12 apostles are limestone stacks sticking out of the ocean. However, these days there are no longer 12 limestone stacks! How many can you find?
Mixed in with all of the natural there are plenty of beautiful wineries and cellar doors for you to enjoy a glass of wine and some amazing food. I recommend booking an Airbnb and enjoying some wine and charcuterie, both of which you can stock up on along the Great Ocean Road.
Contributed by Fiona of Travelling Thirties
Tulum, Mexico
Tulum is one of the top destinations in Mexico and an incredible place to visit. It has become a hot spot for tourists and digital nomads alike. For starters, it is quite simple to get to from Cancun International Airport taking approximately two hours on a straight forward highway. You can spend a few days or weeks in Tulum with tons to do. And don’t forget, if you are planning a trip to Cancun or Playa Del Carmen, you can easily add on a day or two to Tulum. Make sure that you take time for Breakfast in Tulum as it is truly an experience!
You should be aware that Tulum is a small town and not a massive city. It is a special place due to its Mayan history, incredible jungle, and stunning beaches. You will have plenty to do, starting with visiting the local ruins. These are located right by the public beach. Another unique attraction you can check out is Sian Ka‘an. a biosphere reserve. And you definitely want to visit at least one of the numerous cenotes in the areas. The most known are Cenote Dos Ojos, Cenotes Casa Tortuga, and Cenote Calavera. Overall, a visit to this part of Mexico is like no other and the perfect spot for your next trip.
Contributed by Poonam from rexangel.com
Bora Bora
How do sandy white beaches, fiery sunsets, and a crystal clear lagoon sound to you right about now? Bora Bora’s jaw-dropping landscape makes it one of the most beautiful islands in the world and tops the bucket list for your next vacation.
Located in the South Pacific, Bora Bora may not be the easiest destination to travel to. However, its seclusion and luxurious hotels are one of the many reasons why so many people visit throughout the year. Bora Bora is famously known for its overwater bungalows that hover above the turquoise lagoon. The breathtaking views from your bungalow give front row seats to dream-like sunsets and provides a memorable once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Besides your daily dips in the lagoon and cocktails on the beach, there are plenty of things to do in Bora Bora. A snorkel excursion is a perfect activity to add to your itinerary. Swim up close to sharks, stingrays, giant manta rays and explore Bora Bora’s colorful reefs.
If you are a seafood lover, you will be in heaven eating Bora Bora’s traditional Polynesian food. A must-try traditional dish is Poisson Cru, which is raw tuna that is marinated in lime juice and coconut milk.
Before you escape to paradise in Bora Bora, find a one-day itinerary for your layover in Papeete, Tahiti, where the international airport is located.Attachments area
Contributed by Alisha of Travel Today Work Tomorrow
Sydney, Australia
Sydney, the capital of NSW is Australia’s largest city and the most well-known city for every tourist wanting to visit Australia, thanks to the iconic Sydney Opera House. What makes Sydney a great place to visit is because you get to experience diversity among people and places. You also get to enjoy the warm summers and not-so-extreme winters making it a perfect city to enjoy and explore outdoors.
From an amazing beach lifestyle to cafe culture, world-class surf, and renowned landmarks, there are many wonderful places in Sydney you must visit and you will be spoilt for choices. If you are wondering how long you should spend in Sydney then anywhere from 3 days to a week is a good amount of time. You can even spend more days if you are looking to go beyond the borders of Sydney.
Some of the top attractions to see in Sydney includes Sydney Opera house, Sydney Harbour, Darling Harbour, and Bondi to Coogee coastal walk. If you are interested in checking out the beach scene then you can’t miss Bondi Beach, Bronte Beach, and Mainly beach. Manly beach is quieter than Bondi beach and a popular beach to learn surfing. The rock pool, Bronte bath at the southern end of Bronte beach is a gem and free to visit.
Contributed by Suvarna from Suvarna Arora
Havana, Cuba
If you’re looking for a relaxing yet fun-filled getaway after quarantine, make sure to add Havana, Cuba to your list. This unique city provides visitors with the perfect mix of Caribbean weather and beaches alongside so much history and culture, making it the perfect destination for all kinds of travelers. While visiting Cuba is easy for anyone from any country – even the United States! – you’ll need to secure a Cuban tourist visa before arriving in Havana, so make sure you have some spare cash on hand in the airport before you depart for the island.
Start the morning at El Café with Cuban coffee and a breakfast sandwich or smoothie, working your way through Old Havana and exploring the beautiful historic center of the city. The most impressive sites and historic buildings worth a visit surround the four oldest plazas in Old Havana: Plaza Vieja, Plaza de San Francisco, Plaza de Armas, Plaza de la Catedral. Take yourself on a self-guided walking tour around these four plazas and you’ll see much of the beauty and history that Havana has to offer.
In the evening, make sure to visit the Fábrica del Arte Cubano, one of the best places to go in the city for a drink and to experience the nightlife. This mixed-use space was a former cooking oil factory, and now it houses multiple bars, art galleries, and performance spaces, with rotating performances by Cuban and international DJs, singers, and more.
Contributed by Carley Rojas Avila of Home to Havana
Algarve, Portugal
Algarve, the beautiful south coast of Portugal, is an excellent choice of travel in these uncertain times. It features stunning beaches and picturesque fishing towns combined with great weather. The region is very safe, semaphore indicators signalising crowdedness of beaches and high standards followed in all the hotels.
Most tourists stay in the resort between Lagos and Vale de Lobo, where all the most famous landmarks are situated. What makes Algarve even more appealing is the distinct atmosphere of different towns with short distances between them, making it possible to explore them with ease.
Deciding to visit this sunny part of Portugal, you should put aside some time to explore heart formation at Praia de Marinha, kitesurf into the Benagil cave, wander around the picturesque village Ferragudo and explore lagoons at Cacela Velha. Often overlooked by tourist, it’s the charming town of Faro, which is also a natural park offering insight into the Portuguese wildlife. Here you will also find the most pristine beaches in Europe. And this is not even close to what Algarve has to offer. Read this post for a detailed overview, the best time to visit, where to stay and how to travel around.
Contributed by Tjaša of The Travel Momento
Greece
One of the best places to travel to after Covid is the island of Santorini. Santorini is a beautiful place in Greece with a lot of things to do and see. The island is part of the Cyclades Islands and you can find many other islands close to Santorini. Other islands nearby are Paros and Mykonos. The island of Santorini is well-known for the beautiful views and picturesque villages. One of the best things to do in Santorini is to go to the village of Oia. You find here beautiful things, such as the blue domes that are very famous.
Furthermore, you find Oia Castle in Oia, which is an old castle from where you have even more beautiful views. Also, the sunset from there looks amazing! Besides Oia, there are many other great places to go to. For example, there are lots of beautiful beaches on the island that are great for a relaxing time! One of the best beaches on the island is Red Beach, which features many red cliffs that look stunning! Another great thing to do on the island is going to Fira Town, the capital of the island. This is another idyllic village with lots of viewpoints, restaurants, bars, and more!
Contributed by Dymphe of Dyma Abroad
South Africa
South Africa is home to dramatic mountains, stunning coastlines, incredible wildlife viewing, and Cape Town, known as one of the best cities in the world. It is a land of great diversity and one of the most intriguing tourist destinations. There are so many things to do in South Africa. With such a wide variety of choices, you will find that there is something for everyone!
Learn about the history of South Africa, starting in Johannesburg. Also, don’t miss Robben Island (where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned), Nelson Mandela’s house, and the Apartheid Museum.
South Africa also has many options for the adventurous traveler. You will not want to miss having the experience of a lifetime on a safari. Kruger National Park is one of the most popular safari destinations in South Africa to find the Big 5. You can do a self-drive safari or go on your adventures with a lodge.
If the ocean is more your passion, adventure in search of the Marine 5. Go cage diving with great white sharks, admire the cute African Penguins at Boulders Beach, go kayaking with wild dolphins, or go whale watching. Or, perhaps you’re keen to have a relaxing break on the beach, hike in breathtaking landscapes, or shop until you drop.
Whatever you desire, you’ll find it in South Africa.
Contribute by Debbie Fettback from World Adventurists
Maine
Maine is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful states in the US. From its rocky coastline to the lush wilderness found inland to the hundreds of places to find delicious lobster, Maine is one of the best getaway destinations and one you should consider post-pandemic.
A drive along the coast should be on everyone’s bucket list for visiting Maine. Starting in Ogunquit in Southern Maine drive up along the coast towards Acadia National Park. Along the way be sure to stop at the many lighthouses, seafood restaurants, and costal beaches. A stop in Cape Elizabeth for the Portland Head Lighthouse is a must.
At Acadia National Park drive park loop drive, stop at the top of Cadillac Mountain, take a dip at in Sand Beach, and enjoy a harbor cruise. If you’re up for it, choose from the many hikes within the park to get even closer to nature or head up the mountain at night for some stargazing. Stop in Bar Harbor for that small New England town charm and enjoy some shopping and seafood.
In Northern Maine you can enjoy a moose viewing safari and see these majestic animals in their natural environment. An interesting stop in Maine for horror fans is Bangor, the home of Stephen King. Here you can take a tour of the sites that inspired some of America’s most famous horror stories. Maine is the perfect escape for anybody looking to get outdoors and enjoy nature!
Contributed by Melissa of Navigation Junkie
Colombia
You must just be waiting for the day you can finally travel again after covid. Now is a great time to plan your next trip to Colombia. Within Colombia, there are so many different cities to see, each with their own unique twist. One city is the capital of Bogotá which lies on a plateau of the Andes mountains. Due to the high altitude of 8,675 feet (2,644 metres) above sea level, the temperature is usually pretty cool all year around. Here, you can visit places like Monserrate which gives a beautiful view of the city. Also, the Catedral de Sal which is a magnificent underground Church surrounded by salt and rock formations.
There are also many museums including the most popular, Museo de Botero and Museo de Oro. If you know what Oro means, that’s a gold museum! A popular tourist city is Cartagena which is on the coast of Colombia. The weather is tropical and hot but loved by many visitors for the beautiful beaches. Between these two cities, in terms of both distance and temperature, is the city of Medellín which is another popular spot but not for the beaches but rather due to the rich history. An added benefit of visiting Colombia is that you can visit each city for a few days as you can usually get decent prices on hotels and internal flights.
Contributed by Venaugh
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Which of these destinations sounds the most appealing to you? Comment below with your next vacation location!