Now that we’re finally getting to the end of the pandemic (or so it seems), many of us are thinking about where we’d like to go next on our travels. Staying in the US is one option, but there’s a whole world out there to explore. So where do people say they want to go this year? Let’s take a look.
Iceland
Typically, when people go to Europe on vacation, they visit France or Italy, two of the most culture-steeped countries in the world. But things are changing. And now Iceland is the place everyone wants to go. The reason for this is simple: Iceland offers landscapes that you can’t find anywhere else in the world. Besides Greenland, it’s one of the only major islands in the northern hemisphere. What’s more, it’s home to many of the world’s most impressive geothermal vents, allowing you to go swimming in warm water, even in the middle of winter.
Costa Rica
Another common destination is Costa Rica. The small territory remained open to the world throughout most of the pandemic, meaning that you could travel here freely, without any checks. The only problem was the quarantines when you arrived home. Costa Rica is popular for its safety and beaches. It’s one of the rare places in the world where everyone seems happy. Crime barely exists here, and there are plenty of places to just lie back and enjoy the sun.
Safaris In Rwanda
If you’ve had your travel vaccination, you might consider going on Safari in Rwanda. The country is still implementing strict protocols for travelers, but that’s one of the reasons why it is drawing so much interest. People want to travel somewhere that’s fundamentally safe. Rwanda is currently attracting the majority of tourists from places like UAE and Morocco. However, there are many English-speaking tours operating in the country for people from the US to enjoy as well.
Thailand
East Asia closed its borders at the start of the pandemic and hasn’t opened them, except in special circumstances. Thailand, though, is an exception. It began opening up in the summer last year and is now welcoming tourists with open arms. Thais are still being quite strict with their entry requirements. However, many travelers are looking to make the trip for health and wellness reasons. Thailand is famous for its well being-focused travel options, perfect for burnt out Westerners just looking to get away from it all for a while. The most popular activities include visits to temples, meditations, vegetable-based food, and cooking classes. Tourists may also take part in healing ceremonies if they wish.
The Galapagos
Many people believe that the 2020s may be their last chance to see the Galapagos Islands in their full glory before rising sea levels and tourists damage them permanently. And, according to estimates, they’re willing to pay high prices for the privilege. Other similar destinations include Fiji and the Maldives. Private huts and villas reduce interactions with strangers and give people more of their own space. Ultimately, people want to stay in places that feel safe. Getting sick on vacation may lead to all sorts of complications, including difficulties in seeking out medical treatment.
Croatia
Croatia lost more than 10 percent of its population in the last decade, but it hasn’t lost its tourist status. People love traveling to the region because of its beautiful scenery and generally laid-back culture. Croatia is a surprisingly wealthy country. Cities, such as Zagreb, are well-presented. What’s more, it’s almost entirely geared towards the tourist market. The country relies on foreign travelers to support its economy by filling its hotels and buying restaurant meals.
Botswana
Botswana is one of the most intriguing countries in Africa. Despite being landlocked and mostly desert, it’s built a thriving economy and is now perhaps the best place to live on the continent. What makes Botswana so special, though, isn’t the cities, but rather the vast untamed wildernesses that surround them. The country is just about as wild as you can get outside of the Congo, offering mile after mile of savannah. Commercial farming never took root in the country, so what you see is a genuinely wild landscape, with only minimal human interference.
The Scottish Highlands
Lastly, many people are booking trips to the Scottish Highlands this year. The reason is simple: the Highlands offer spectacular natural beauty in the context of a developed country. You can walk for miles in these lands without encountering a single soul, enjoying the beauty of the landscapes that surround you.