Where to Travel Summer 2020

Well summer is in full swing, though it may not feel like it! I’m used to spending my summer days at beaches, pool parties, BBQ’s and of course rooftop bars. Most of those things are no longer possible thanks to covid. This will be my first summer without having a real social life, much less any girl’s trips! I’ve been lucky enough to take some small local vacations with my husband, but I was really hoping to be able to get a girl’s trip in this summer. One of the things I miss most since we’ve been social distancing is the quality time with my friends.

I have been doing some research on summer travel destinations and where it might be safe to take a vacation, so I wanted to share some of my ideas. Please be sure to do your own research before planning any vacations right now. Health and safety come first! You also need to take into consideration your personal risk factors. If you feel confident and comfortable planning a summer trip, keep reading for my tips on how to enjoy a vacation this summer!

Is it Safe to Travel Right Now

Covid-19 is still on the rise in several areas in the US. The situation is changing every day, so be sure to check up to the minute news and alerts to be safe. I initially thought about focusing on domestic travel this year, but I am rethinking that strategy. As much as I wanted to go to Sedona this Spring and Miami in December, at the time I’m writing this post, Arizona and Florida are both covid hotspots.

If you want to plan a safe summer vacation, research destinations that have low levels of coronavirus and are also friendly to social distancing. A boutique hotel on a small strip of beach may be a better bet than a sprawling resort or a big city. AirBnB is also resuming service, so look for properties with great amenities and a hotel feel. Bonus points if they offer contactless check-in. If you are travelling, or really leaving your house for any reason, you are taking a risk. Be smart about how you plan and take all necessary, CDC recommended precautions! Being quarantined for months on end is hard, and I’m sure we are all starting to feel stir crazy. Give yourself a much needed break; just do so cautiously and responsibly.

Where Can Americans Go for Summer Vacation

International travel has largely been restricted since March, and things are finally starting to loosen up. But before you hop on a flight out of the country, do your research! While the EU is allowing travel to resume, visitors from the US are banned. When can Americans go to Europe? Who knows! But if you want the feel of a European vacation, consider Croatia. The Mediterranean country is stunning, cheaper than most of Western Europe, and currently welcoming Americans without requiring a quarantine period. Serbia is also allowing American tourists in, and as of now the country hasn’t listed any restrictions or quarantine guidelines.

Other countries that are welcoming tourists include Mexico, the Bahamas, Aruba, Belize, Bermuda, the Dominican Republic, Grenada, and Barbados. Barbados is actually pioneering a program to allow remote workers to stay for up to 1 year if you are looking to really get away! If you are looking to go somewhere more exotic or far-flung, Tanzania, the Maldives and Dubai are all set to reopen to tourists this month.

Regulations vary by country, so check local guidelines before booking. Some will require proof of a negative covid test, testing on arrival within the country, a period of quarantine, installing a contact tracing app on arrival, and more. If you aren’t comfortable with the rules, stay home!

Should I postpone travel until the Fall?

It’s unclear how the coronavirus will progress over the next few months. Things could be much better by Fall or much worse, especially with schools reopening. If you are nervous about summer travel, definitely hold off. You won’t have fun or be able to relax if you are terrified of everything. There will always be travel opportunities! Save the time, stress and money for next year. You could slowly save for a really nice bucket list trip to take in 2021 instead of throwing something together right now.

If you are getting antsy and can’t take the thought of another weekend trapped at home, there are still options! Road trips and camping (or glamping) are always a blast! Or you could rent a tiny cabin in the woods for a socially distant escape. Travel will continue to be more affordable than ever this year so you should have plenty of options.

Hopefully these tips help you plan a safe vacation and take a healthy break from quarantine! Just remember to monitor local guidelines and recommendations from the CDC, and continuously research your potential destination before traveling!