These Five Countries Are Open to Vaccinated Tourists
It’s crazy what a year can do. This time last Spring, our travel prospects hardly expanded beyond the range of bed to couch to bed, then repeat—throw in more than a few trips to the fridge, for good measure. Widespread lockdowns triggered by the spread of COVID-19 halted international travel as we knew it, almost overnight. With many either canceling trips or postponing long-awaited plans, adjusting to the needs of a pandemic world was a massive wake-up call for the nomads-at-heart. Now, as vaccines begin working their ways into communities big and small, we find ourselves on the cusp of yet another pivotal moment, one that, though hopeful, still places us in a perpetual state of limbo.
Whether you’re of the Pfizer, Moderna, or J&J variety, you’re in the clear to hit the skies again two weeks after a second dose. Back in early April, the CDC announced that fully vaccinated people were at low risk of spreading COVID-19 and, therefore, could resume domestic and international travel--while abiding by some baseline precautions. Especially for those of us in the United States, where coronavirus seemed to be on an upward climb with no end in sight, this clearance helps us all breathe a huge sigh of relief. That being said, one shouldn’t be too quick to assume that the world is now their playground, as infection rates and vaccine rollouts have varied tremendously. For context, while just shy of 20% of Canadians have received at least one dose of the vaccine, nearly 50% of all adult Americans have gotten their first. Suffice to say, our return to normalcy is still very much in a hurry up and wait for phase. So, if you’re looking to grab your passport and vaccine card and venture somewhere new this summer, you’ll need to mind your Ps and Qs to keep yourself and locals safe.
Check out a few major hotspots for vaccinated travelers that are open for business. It might be a somewhat distanced and very-masked vacation, but hey, it’s something, right?
Iceland
As of early April, Iceland updated its COVID-19 travel regulations for international tourists, welcoming travelers from outside the Schengen zone while still restricting travel from Iceland to parts of Europe. Admission to Iceland requires testing for all people across the board. Those with a vaccine card do not need to submit a negative PCR test before boarding their flight but will be expected to comply with testing measures upon arrival. Those without vaccine cards are still permitted but are required to submit a negative PCR test 72 hours before departure, followed by two rounds of testing and five to six days of quarantine. The government has also clarified that these border control measures will likely be amended by June 1st.
With views like this, Blue Lagoon more than lives up to the hype. Photo from Popsugar.
What to Check Out:
Though definitely a little off the beaten path, Iceland is a stunning gem of a country with no shortage of sights and sounds to enjoy. A trip over to the Blue Lagoon followed by an evening under the Northern Lights are a must, two of their most recognizable claims to fame that’ll ramp up your Instagram feed. Beyond these, Iceland has so many other incredible nooks and crannies from hiking spots, national parks, volcanoes, hot springs, and even just local restaurants. If you’re really itching to get about as far away from home as possible, look no further.
Ecuador
Ecuador’s standards are updated as of April 5th permitting international travel. Per government mandate, all tourists must either submit a negative COVID PCR-RT or antigen test three days prior to arrival or show proof of vaccinations within proper timelines. These regulations do not apply to travelers under the age of two.
Crystal clear water and blue skies as far as the eye can see--sign us up. Photo from Teknomadics Adventures.
What to Check Out:
Right on the South American Coast, Ecuador is a small but incredibly multifaceted country, rich in culture and natural wonders. On the top of anyone’s list should be a tour of the Galapagos Islands, one of the world’s most famous hotspots for wildlife diversity and the site where Charles Darwin first observed the foundations of evolutionary theory. For the thrill-seekers, take a trip over to Nariz del Diablo (The Devil’s Nose), where visitors can take a steep but gorgeous trek up the Andes Mountain. Famous for its blend of colonial architecture and indigenous roots, Ecuador has no shortage of small-town gems such as Quito, Cuenca, and Otavalo.
Egypt
Even during the height of the pandemic’s rise, Egypt was one of the few countries that kept its borders fairly open to international travel. Having updated its requirements as recently as April 11th, travelers must simply submit a negative COVID PCR test within 72 hours of their flight’s departure time. Additionally, tourists must show proof of health insurance upon arrival.
Nestled right on the Nile, Cairo is bursting at the seams with life on every corner, seamlessly blending old and new-world charm with captivating Islamic architecture. Photo from Pexels.
What to Check Out:
Last month, we actually caught up with an Elon senior who spent his January touring all over Egypt. While maybe a little more off the beaten path, Egypt is no doubt a beautiful and diverse country with hidden gems around every corner. Right off the bat, making the trek over to the Pyramids of Giza, Abu Simbel, Sphynx, and the Karnak Temple are definite must-sees you’ll want to check off. Assuming you’ll likely make a stop in Cairo, make an effort to take in the sights and sounds on the ground by visiting markets, checking out bars, and exploring landmarks. Outside of the city, you’ll find Egypt has no shortage of natural diversity, from the Mediterranean coastal flair of Alexandria to the Nile vibes in Aswan. It’s got something for just about anyone.
France
Without jumping the gun, there might still be hope for a trip to France after all. Even as the French are weathering their third national lockdown, President Emmanuel Macron revealed to the press recently that the government does have plans to allow vaccinated tourists into the country this summer. While plans are still being finalized and details not yet clarified, Macron confirms that they will begin significantly lifting restrictions come May.
A relic of a fallen empire, the halls of Versailles are enough to make mouths drop among even the most seasoned world travelers. Photo from Britannica.
What to Check Out:
When it comes to France, I think you’d be hard-pressed to find a shortage of sights to see. In Paris, perhaps no trip is complete without the Louvre, Musee d’Orsay, Notre Dame, and the sparkling Eiffel. Just a quick 30-minute drive outside Paris, spending a day walking the halls and gardens of Versailles is a feast for the eyes like no other. Going further beyond city limits, though, is a whole new ballgame. In the heart of Strasbourg, La Petit France is a stunning step into old-world charm, lined with historic cobblestone streets and 16th Century architecture. A similar vibe, Nice’s Old Town is the perfect place to spend the day getting lost among bustling markets nestled between seas of pastel buildings.
Croatia
Travelers to Croatia have a handful of options at their fingertips. Per requirements listed by the U.S. Embassy, tourists may show or perform any one of the following to be granted entry: a negative viral test, a vaccination certificate submitted within 14 days of arrival, a medical certificate confirming successful recovery of COVID-19 within 90 days, or consent to be administered a test and subsequent quarantine at the border. These standards, however, are subject to change at any point from the Croatian authorities.
With an unbeatable blend of history and culture and views like these, it’s clear why Croatia has become a hotspot for curious travelers all over the world. Photo from Global Grasshopper.
What to Check Out:
Directly across from Italy and bordering the Adriatic Sea, Croatia is a true stunner in its own right. Though just shy of only 22,000 square miles, it’s gushing with culture on every corner, home to nearly 10 UNESCO World Heritage sites. Leading the pack has to be the Walls of Dubrovnik, incredible defense relics from the medieval era that give Game of Thrones a run for its money. Croatia has no shortage of stunning small-town gems rich with history. Take a trip over to Split where you’ll find shops, restaurants, boat tours, and the Palazzo di Diocleziano, ancient ruins from Roman Emperor Diocletian dating back to 4 A.D. For the more outdoorsy-minded, check out Plitvice Lakes National Park, a breathtaking cross-section of crystal clear waterfalls, turquoise lakes, and evergreen cliffs--cameras required.
Hope is in the air for an adventure this summer. Make sure to tag @theedgemag if any of these places are marked on your calendar!