There is a trend emerging with countries opening up their borders to those who have been fully vaccinated against Covid. Whether you are pro or anti receiving the shot, this is a hard fact that is likely to be inked into many countries travel requirements over the coming months. That's not to say it won't be possible to travel without getting the vaccine, but your options will be more plentiful and your hoop-jumping much less stressful if you do.
Even though the European Union are behind the USA with their vaccine rollout, they have announced plans to create a vaccination passport for its 440 Million citizens by this summer which will enable travel to reopen fully between EU countries. This, I hope, is something that will develop globally.
Meanwhile other individual nations have recently announced changes to their immigration procedures and our Top 5 (of many possibilities) this week focuses on countries who are now fully open to US citizens again, providing you have your vaccination certificate. It may be hard to believe given relentless negative media headlines, but 90 countries are now open to US citizens. That's nearly half the world.

1. Iceland (above and below)

As of today, (3/18/21) Iceland now welcomes any travelers who are fully vaccinated against Covid, with no further tests or quarantine required. At the moment you still need a Covid test to return to USA, but we expect some form of vaccination passport to emerge which will supersede that requirement. We expect there to be quite a rush for summer bookings given this news, so if Iceland has been on your radar, call us to plan quickly. It's simply a spectacular country and perfect for the adventurous. Remember though the Northern Lights are not visible in summer and you have to travel in late Fall through early Spring to do your best to guarantee that exceptional experience.

2. Seychelles (below)
If you combine a vaccination certificate with a negative Covid PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure, then the Seychelles are open again! Whilst the Maldives remain our go-to currently for exotic, safe and amazing chill beach vacations, the Seychelles are similarly gorgeous and will likely remain a quiet destination, which only improves the experience.

3. Slovenia (above and below)
Overshadowed by its southern neighbor, Croatia (which has been open to all for a while), Slovenia is a beautiful country. Lake Bled, which both photos feature, may be the most scenic lake in the whole of Europe. The country remains a "hidden gem" and I believe it's been called that for far too long. A Fall trip would be stunning and likely to be ahead of the flow of tourists that will undoubtedly be booking trips there soon. You are now able to bypass the quarantine protocols with proof of vaccination.

4. Belize
Belize is the first Caribbean nation to embrace vaccinations and the only additional requirement is to fill in details on a Belize Health App within 72 hours of arriving in country. Belize provides the perfect opportunity for a chill and jungle 2-center vacation. Perfect beaches (above) abound on the coast and there are some wonderful luxury jungle eco-lodges inland which also provide the opportunity to visit Mayan ruins (below).

5. Coming soon...Thailand (above and below)
Currently there is a prohibitive 16-day quarantine period if you wish to enter Thailand, but there are advanced government plans to reopen the country again, likely in July. This is particularly exciting to me, as I am heading there as soon as the vaccination passport is implemented. It will be my chill place for a post Covid recuperation work/rest trip. I just love the food, the people, the vibe and the value.

I love travel and I love travel planning just as much. It took me a very long time to align my career with my undeniable passion for exploring, but now I and the team are here for you. Your personal travel tailors - award reservation and luxury custom itinerary experts.

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