Most of the world is open to travelers from the United States, but as COVID numbers continue to rise due to Omicron, traveling still can be quite difficult for many. Vacation planning season has peaked and as a Travel Agent, I am receiving a lot of requests for locations with relaxed COVID mandates or social distancing trips.
Below is a list of my favorite destinations for 2022:
1. United States
You can’t go wrong with seeing the beauty in our own country. The cruise industry still is a large COVID risk and most ships require a negative test and full vaccination status. This has pushed many families to choose different vacations for 2022.
- Theme Parks: Theme parks are a great family friendly vacation. Walt Disney World and Universal Studios aren’t requiring a COVID vaccination and masks are only required indoors (subject to change).
- Beaches: East Coast and Florida beaches are seeing a big spike in travelers. A beach vacation allows families to social distance safety. Masks are subject to the location.
- Dude Ranches: Thanks to Yellowstone and 1883, I have received many requests to visit ranches. This is a fun unique vacation idea! Most ranches are small allowing for a safe socially distant vacation.
- Colorado, Utah, Montana, and California: I have seen a huge uptick in sight-seeing vacations. This type of vacation allows families to socially distance, spend time outside, and see nature.
2. Mexico
One of the easier countries to visit right now. Mexico is allowing U.S. travelers to enter the country without testing or quarantine.
3. The Bahamas
The Bahamas is a short and direct flight from many of our major cities. Their COVID entry guidelines are simple, only requiring a negative result from a rapid antigen or RT-PCR test taken no more than three days before arrival. The Bahamas is home to two very popular tourist hotels: Atlantis and Sandals. If you want a direct flight beach vacation out of the United States, the Bahamas is a great option.
4. Dominican Republic
Another great country if you want to avoid COVID-19 testing prior to arrival. The Dominican Republic is not requiring vaccinations or testing for entry.
5. Jamaica
One of my favorite Caribbean islands, Jamaica is home to white sandy beaches and some of the best food. They are currently requiring travelers 12 and older to have a negative result from a Covid-19 molecular (PCR, NAA, RNA) or antigen test taken within three days of the travel date. You also must fill out a travel authorization form. Sandals (adults only), Beaches (family friendly), Grand Palladium (family friendly) are a few great resorts I recommend.
6. Europe
Most European countries are allowing entry to vaccinated Americans, and several countries, including the United Kingdom, Ireland and Switzerland, have recently relaxed their testing requirements for entry. Countries still enforcing masks include France, Italy, and the Netherlands.
