Coronavirus has certainly unfolded a lot of questions about the future of travel, especially with travel being at a standstill right now. When non-essential travel reopens, I predict that we will see people choosing to travel closer to home. Here are my picks for the top travel destinations for 2020 and 2021.
The Florida Keys
My favorite time of year is here to visit the Florida Keys. September and October are the best in my opinion, as long as there isn’t a hurricane. This is when the water is the warmest, kids have gone back to school and most tourists have gone home. The Florida Keys opened to tourism this summer and maintained strict rules for social distancing and mask wearing. Kayaking through mangroves without a soul in sight sound good to anyone? This is my top choice for a Caribbean vacation without leaving the country!
St. Lucia
St. Lucia was recently reduced to the lowest COVID-19 rating by the CDC. But, there are a few things you have to do before you travel. You must stay at a COVID-19 approved resort, fill out a travel registration form prior to travel, and have the results of a negative PCR test taken up to seven days prior to travel. Some sites and excursions are even starting to open back up, sunset cruise anyone? This would be my top choice for newlyweds still wanting to go on that unforgettable honeymoon! Tahiti or the Maldives are other options for honeymooners wanting to go far, far away.
National Parks
Almost everyone has at least one national park on their bucket list, make 2020 your year to check it off the list. I think that roadtrips, camping and national parks are going to be a great way for people to start traveling again. Roadtrips allow people to avoid airplanes, but still see some place new. If you’re not into camping, try glamping with Under Canvas. Yosemite National Park is definitely on my priority list for this summer, what park is on yours?
Alaska
Alaska is far away, but still feels close to home. If you have been itching to go to Iceland, Norway or Sweden why not head up to Alaska. Traveling to Alaska lets you stay within the U.S., but with landscapes that make you feel like you’re in another part of the world. Instead of going by way of sea, choose to take a land tour. Sightsee on the Alaska Railroad, hop on a day cruise to see a glacier up close and take a flight over Denali National Park.
Holbox, Mexico
I like to think of it as the new Tulum, with laid-back boho vibes. Part of traveling sustainably is choosing not too visit destinations burdened from over-tourism. Tulum has gained a lot of popularity over the years and Holbox can give you the same kind of experience, but with less crowds. Holbox has the added bonuses of being an island and having no cars or paved roads. The water is crystal clear, the drinks are refreshing, the food is unbelievable and the atmosphere will make you never want to leave.
Dominica
Don’t confuse it for the Dominican Republic. Dominica was deemed the nature island, for obvious reasons. Dominica is a Caribbean island made for the modern day adventurer. Like going to Indonesia or the Philippines, but much closer. Hike to remote waterfalls, dive with whales, mingle with locals and bask in the sun on secluded beaches. There are accommodations for every type of traveler, from budget to luxury. Why not visit the Caribbeans most little known island! This is my top choice for digital nomads wanting to get away for a month or two.
I hope you enjoyed my top travel destinations for 2020 and 2021. If you are traveling right now, please be respectful. Always check for local travel requirements and don’t forget to book your trip with your favorite travel planner, yours truly. If you liked this blog post, please check out my Holbox, Mexico travel guide!
