To say that the last year was momentous would be an understatement. There has been plenty of stress-inducing events, from lockdowns to schooling at home to canceled events. Now that there is a light at the end of the tunnel, it’s time for a vacation! While not all destinations are open to American travelers just yet, the list certainly is getting longer. You need to know that your vacation destination is welcoming visitors and what protocols to follow before you begin planning your tropical getaway.

Mexico

America is Mexico’s largest trading partner and a huge source of tourist revenue for their country. This is great news for Americans because they want us to visit, and their resorts and destinations are waiting for our arrival. Travel is easy and largely unrestricted which means the diversity of destinations in Mexico are all on the table for your post-pandemic getaway! Mexico is a great, affordable destination that is sure to brighten your spirits and make you forget that 2020 even happened! 

Jamaica

Miles and miles of pristine, white-sand beaches, delicious food, and beautiful all-inclusive resorts are all well within the realm of possibility when you’re headed to Jamaica. An incredibly popular destination with Americans and other nationalities, Jamaica is eager to welcome tourists with open arms.

Jamaica is an island nation which means they have a better ability to control the potential for a COVID outbreak, so they require a negative Covid test within 72 hours of arrival. Jamaica is an amazing island getaway that I’m sure you’ll love! 

Aruba

Located outside of the hurricane belt, Aruba is an island gem famed for year-round sunny skies and little rain. The perfect remedy after being stuck inside for the last year! 

Like Jamaica, you will have to prove a negative COVID test within 72 hours of arrival on the island, and you may be given another test upon arrival. You will also have to fill out an online Embarkation/Disembarkation card consenting to COVID testing and mandates and providing traveler health information, including the purchase of travel insurance. Aruba may be the most stringent tropical destination on the list, but trust me when I say it’s well worth it!

Dominican Republic

Highly accessible from the United States and with few COVID requirements, the Dominican Republic high on my list of destinations. There’s so much to see and do in the D.R. that it’s sure to wipe away any pandemic blues. Countless miles of beaches, amazing natural elements, and beautiful scenery are sure to delight any traveler! 

You don’t need proof of a COVID test for entry into the country, but as with any destination, you may be subject to one upon arrival if officials deem it necessary.

St. Lucia

If you want to travel like the movie stars, then St. Lucia is the place for you! Renowned as a world-class destination, this is a romantic, Caribbean paradise. It’s easy to see why, with cultural events like Carnival, ecotourism, and perfect white-sand beaches, this destination is simply breathtaking. 

You’ll have to complete a COVID PCR test before departing and fill out some paperwork, but other than that, you won’t have any more restrictions than you’re used to stateside. 

Hopefully, the worst of the pandemic is behind us, and more tropical vacations are in the future for everyone! But until then, several destinations are open, and I can help you navigate the tricky requirements to get you on your way! Contact me at katestravel.com to start scheduling your long overdue tropical vacation!