With global vaccination underway and the introduction of digital health ‘passports’, we are finally seeing a glimpse of hope for travel lovers. Whether it’s a postponed honeymoon, family reunion or a well needed getaway, the good news is – you can do it! As a travel consultant, I have been getting a surge of requests for trips in Summer 2021. I have therefore compiled a list of 7 countries that are currently (and should remain) open to visitors:

1. Iceland

Since March 12, 2021, everyone who has been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 is welcomed to visit Iceland without being subject to PCR testing and quarantine. “We are excited to safely reopen our borders to fully vaccinated U.S. citizens, as well as those who are no longer susceptible to the virus,” says Sigríður Dögg Guðmundsdóttir, head of Visit Iceland, said in a press statement.

Experience the magic of an Icelandic summer, starring 21 hours of daylight. The sun rises at 3am and sets at 12 am with average temperatures of 10–13 °C (50–55 °F). This is their brightest and most colourful season which is prime time for hiking and pool hopping between natural hot springs. It‘s also the only season you can access the awe-inspiring Highlands.

Credit: www.heyiceland.is

2. Mexico

Mexico has arguably been the easiest country to travel to since the onset of the pandemic. It is one of the few destinations that do not require visitors to show a negative COVID-19 test or quarantine on arrival. It’s also visa-free for a plethora of nationalities. No matter your travel style, there is a city to match your unique preferences. Cancun and Playa del Carmen have been known for decades for its spectacular white sand beaches, turquoise blue toned sea, mystical cenotes and Mayan culture. Tulum is the Instagram photo haven with super trendy spots and vegan gastronomy. The summer trend for ‘in the know’ travellers seeking luxurious seclusion is Punta Mita and Los Cabos.

Our preferred partner, Four Season Resort Los Cabos is a showpiece of contemporary design on Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula. Nestled on 2 miles of untouched beachfront on the Sea of Cortez. Fill your summer days with swimming, snorkelling at the UNESCO Marine World Heritage site – Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park, championship golfing and desert adventures. Book through Dream Aloud Travels for VIP perks such as 25% off room rate, complimentary daily breakfast for two, US$200 resort credit and suite upgrades.

Credit: Four Seasons Los Cabos

3. Maldives

If it’s one thing that the pandemic has taught us, it’s that life is fragile. Chances are that this ‘heaven on earth’ is on your bucket list so why not make it happen? Ditch the crowds and head straight to the pearl of the Indian ocean.

Our preferred partner, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resort boasts the ultimate escape – Ithaafushi – The Private Island. A getaway that comes with the utmost privacy and the personalised service that you deserve. It features a 3-bedroom beach villa, a 2-bedroom over water villa, 4-bedroom residence, 5 pools and a private entertainment clubhouse. Additional amenities include water sports and yacht mooring, as well as dedicated chefs and personal concierge to attend to your every wish. Dream Aloud Travels is a member of Impresario, their elite partner program, allowing our clients exclusive benefits. 24-karat gold facials, anyone?

Credit: Waldorf Astoria

4. United States of America

Dreaming of a beach house in Malibu or perhaps a Hawaiian vacation of hiking in a bamboo forest, swimming in lava caves, oyster farming and whale watching? If you’re looking for a socially distant trip, the USA has endless options.

Let us arrange a non-stop private jet to whisk you away to the pristine ranch life in Philipsburg, Montana. The Ranch at Rock Creek resort has been a member of Relais & Chateaux since 2012 and was also the world’s first Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star guest ranch. The Ranch offers 32 privately guided activities for guests to choose from. Start the day with ‘farm to table’ cuisine, experience awe-inspiring views from The Top of the World on horseback and cast your worries away under the stars.

The basic requirement for entering the USA is a negative COVID-19 test. Other specifics range from state to state which you can see on sherpa.com.

Credit: theranchatrockcreek

5. Saint Lucia

The Caribbean has been leading in pandemic getaways and this island underscores why. They began reopening its tourism industry in phases from June 2020. “Our people, our beaches and our mountains await you in all of their splendor,” the island’s tourism minister, Dominic Fedee said in a recent video message. “Now, the way we used to vibe will change just a little bit [with] responsible tourism [and] heightened protocols. There’s still going to be plenty of fun in the sun.”

Rising majestically above the 600 acre beach front resort of Jade Mountain St.Lucia is a cornucopia of organic architecture celebrating its stunning scenic beauty. A wide range of spa services can be enjoyed in the privacy of the Jade Mountain sanctuaries or at Kai en Ciel- Jade Mountains boutique spa and fitness studio. Book through Dream Aloud Travels and receive a complimentary two hour massage.

Credit: jademountain

6. Costa Rica

Wherever the destination – sustainable travel, whether hiking, biking or camping vacations is now a popular trend. Costa Rica is known for its “pura vida” (pure life) which is what we all need after surviving 2020. Similarly to Mexico, the government does not request coronavirus tests nor does it issue sanitary confinement orders as requirements to enter.

While hotel stars denote standards of luxury, savvy travelers to Costa Rica now look for accommodations that pride themselves with that country’s coveted Leaf certification. The Costa Rican Tourism Board designed it to differentiate the degrees that various tourism-related businesses in the country comply with a sustainable model of natural, cultural, and social resource management.

Nayara Tented Camp has been named one of the best sustainable hotels in the world. It’s built on the hillside to provide unobstructed views of the Arenal volcano. The design blends contemporary, barefoot-luxe touches and unique-to-location design featuring private plunge pools fed by natural mineral hot springs.

Credit: nayaratentedcamp

7. Jamaica

I couldn’t end this list without mentioning where I’ve been spending ‘lockdown’. This island is known as the ‘heartbeat of the world’ and has not stopped beating during the pandemic. Simply, complete an online Travel Authorization and submit a negative Covid-19 test within 3 days of your flight. Once you arrive, you will have access to their “coronavirus-resilient corridor” along the island’s northern coast stretching from Negril to Port Antonio. The list of things to do in Jamaica is endless! A must do activity is the ‘Sparkling Rafting at the Blue Lagoon’.

This has been a celebrity hideaway hotspot with a recent visit from Gabrielle Union and Dwayne Wade. The Sandals South Coast over water bungalow is perfect for honeymooners or you can opt to stay at a handpicked luxury villa like ‘Rio Chico’ costing an average of US$21,000 per night.

Credit: riochico

Still hesitant to travel? Schedule a consultation call with us and we will be happy to help you navigate these complex times. Continue to stay safe and remember to sign up below for our monthly newsletter with worldwide luxury specials.