It’s so funny how different people can be. One group has no desire to leave the comfort and security of their homes, and the other is practically breaking down doors.

With the state of things, it’s understandable why people are cautious. Numbers are on the rise in many countries due to miss management and it seems like they aren’t doing a thing to address it. But I would say the majority of countries and destinations are handling COVID-19 with the utmost respect. I wanted to take a quick moment to update you on places you CAN go if you are in the latter group. I’ve had so many people message me and simply ask, what’s available? So here are my top 5 places you can travel right now (seriously this is Oct 18th, things are changing by the moment so be sure to check back often!)

1) Croatia. 

Despite spending the last decade as Europe’s fastest-rising holiday destination, Croatia still doesn’t feel overrun with tourists. With new developments kept on a human scale and businesses retaining a pronounced local flavor, the Adriatic coast emphatically retains a unique character. Whether you’re interested in unspoiled Mediterranean islands, edgy urban culture, Game of Thrones location tours or simply splashing around in the Adriatic’s famously clear waters, Croatia is a place to discover many different landscapes and experiences. I recently put together a month-long itinerary for a friend and couldn’t believe all of the amazing sites, foods, and experiences I had never heard of.  

COVID Requirements – A negative COVID-19 test (PCR and/or serology) required for entry within 48 hrs of arrival.

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2) Turkey

Turkey has something thrilling for everyone – world-class hot air ballooning, swoon-worthy beaches, historic biblical sites, iconic Grand Bazaar shopping, and the bustling metropolis of Istanbul. It’s one exciting globetrotting moment after the next. Explore the ancient city of Istanbul, take amazing tours of the Underground Cities in Cappadocia, or take a Hot Air Balloon ride, then take a hike along the Lycian Way Trail on the coast for breathtaking sites. There is something for everyone in this amazing country and I have some amazing friends who would love to take you on a personal tour!

 COVID Requirements – No Negative COVID- 19 Test is required unless you show symptoms for COVD-19, then a PCR test will be administered.

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3) Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a rugged, rainforested Central American country with coastlines on the Caribbean and Pacific. Though its capital, San Jose, is home to cultural institutions like the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, Costa Rica is known for its beaches, volcanoes, and biodiversity. Roughly a quarter of its area is made up of protected jungle, teeming with wildlife including spider monkeys and quetzal birds. What an incredible time to visit the beaches of Costa Rica while its virtually empty!

COVID Requirements – a negative COVID-19 test (PCR and/or serology) is required for entry with 72 hours of arrival.

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4) Ecuador

Ecuador is a country straddling the equator on South America’s west coast. Its diverse landscape encompasses the Amazon jungle, Andean highlands, and the wildlife-rich Galápagos Islands.  Explore culture, history, and architecture in Quinto, Ecuador’s Capital. Hike to incredible craters and explore the Amazon by boat, and enjoy the amazing wildlife on the Galapagos Island. With its simplicity and beauty, Ecuador should be on your list. 

COVID Requirements – a negative COVID-19 test (PCR and/or serology) is required for entry within 10 days of arrival (note access to the Galapagos requires a negative test within 96 hours and a mask the entire stay)

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6) Kenya

Kenya is a country in East Africa with a coastline on the Indian Ocean. It encompasses savannah, Lakelands, the dramatic Great Rift Valley, and mountain highlands. It’s also home to wildlife like lions, elephants, and rhinos. From Nairobi, the capital, safaris visit the Maasai Mara Reserve, known for its annual wildebeest migrations, and Amboseli National Park, offering views of Tanzania’s 5,895m Mt. Kilimanjaro. Kenya is one of the most amazing destinations you can go to right now because of the sheer privacy. Because people are not traveling as much they are seeing virtually private safaris with just you and a guide. What an incredible experience!

COVID Requirements – a negative COVID-19 test (PCR and/or serology) is required for entry within 96 hours of arrival.

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What an amazing world we live in, while I’ll admit a lot of these places were not on my radar pre-covid they are NOW! To go on a safari practically alone, to have a beach in Costa Rica to myself, and to take in the sites of Croatia without a crowd… let’s book those flights! As with anything right now I highly suggest booking early and staying in touch with your advisor for any changes. 

xo, Chelsee