Top Tropical Destinations: Spring/Summer 2021
As the world continues to rollout the COVID-19 vaccine, people are beginning to look ahead and plan spring and summer travel. Life as we once knew it is soon within reach again. But where is it safe to travel?
In recent weeks, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) announced more than 250 destinations worldwide that have met the requirements to earn the Safe Travels Stamp. A global safety and hygiene stamp of approval that identifies “destinations around the world which have adopted health and hygiene global standardized protocols.” In essence, locations that are safe! And with 250 to choose from, skies the limit. Here are a few of our favorites:
Bermuda – With clearly outlined COVID-19 safety protocols, Bermuda is calling your name. Although the island limits transportation to protect its 21-square miles, bikes, scooters, and small electric cars are easily available for getting around and are super fun to use. Bermuda, the oldest Parliament in the British Commonwealth, Bermuda exudes luxurious pink sandy beaches and a plethora of caves, bays, and exotic fish to experience and explore. So, dig out those Bermuda shorts and get packing!
Bahamas – Diligent health and safety protocols offer peace of mind for visitors to the Bahamas. Made up of 16 islands covering 100,000 square miles, a visit to the Bahamas offers rest, relaxation, and fun in a variety of forms. Boat trips provide access to the many sandbars, private coves, award-winning beaches, and even to visit the world-famous swimming pigs. World-renowned fishing and diving also joins the list of activities available for young and old alike.
Costa Rica – Open to air travelers from all countries since fall 2020, entry into Costa Rica is made simple and easy. Known for its rainforests, volcanoes, rivers, wildlife, beaches, and more, this island location is a go-to for thrill-seekers and adventurers. Becoming one with nature, with a focus on sustainability, Costa Rica is one of the “top 20 richest countries in biodiversity.” Also considered “paradise for divers,” wildlife protected areas are in abundance for viewing.
Puerto Rico – While detailed COVID-19 travel guidelines are in place, as a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico currently is excluded from requiring U.S. travelers to provide a negative COVID test before returning to the mainland. With 500 years of history built on Taino, African, and Spanish traditions, visitors to Puerto Rico experience a delightful blend of old-world history in Old San Juan, as well as the beauty of nature found in places such as the El Yunque Rainforest. Beyond its beautiful beaches, Puerto Rico offers a number of art museums that explore both contemporary as well as street mural art – and everything in between.
St. Lucia – The only sovereign nation named after a woman, St. Lucia packs a punch in terms of its offerings to its visitors. Romance, nature, adventure, and family fun can be found on St. Lucia (as well as its sister islands). The island offers crystal-clear, warm blue-green waters, luscious rainforests to explore, and a compilation of Caribbean, African, English, and French cultures. Additionally, there are close to 20 annual events that range from historic celebrations to beach parties. With well-thought out and detailed COVID-19 travel requirements, St. Lucia is definitely worth a visit.
Turks & Caicos – This British territory is made up of 40 coral islands in the Atlantic Ocean. To ensure the safety of all its visitors and residence, they have set up a health and safety site for easy access. As with many islands in this part of the world, water sports are key to a fun time in Turks & Caicos. There are many ways to charter a boat and explore the beauty of the islands. Visitors can also experience vibrant sea life by booking a diving, snorkeling, or whale watching excursion. Additional water sports include kayaking, paddle boarding, sailing, kite boarding, and more. And once back on dry land, there are many culinary experiences to be had and even a little casino time if you so desire. If you can imagine it – Turks & Caicos offers it!
As with any vacation, the hardest part is deciding where to go. But once you make your selection, don’t forget to book your safe, reliable, and professional airport transfer with Dav El|BostonCoach.
Note: *If you choose to travel to any of these destinations, please be sure to check all local government rules, guidelines, and safety precautions related to COVID-19, before your departure. **As of January 26, 2021, the CDC is “requiring all air passengers arriving to the US from a foreign country to get tested no more than 3 days before their flight departs and to present the negative result or documentation of having recovered from COVID-19 to the airline before boarding the flight.”