Covid has certainly changed the way people decide on, shop for, and book travel. The question isn’t only, “Where is a good place to go,” it’s, “Where is it safe to go?”

So, in no particular order, here are five destinations that are safe to visit and welcoming US travelers in the first part of 2021. Many clients have said with the safety protocols in place at these destinations, they feel safer at these destinations than where they live!

Aruba

One of my personal favorite places to visit, Aruba is a beautiful island with lots to see, do, and eat. Long a popular cruise destination, many people have visited Aruba for a day at a time but it’s a great destination for multiple-day vacations. With cruises on hold in the first part of 2021, it is a great time to visit one of the many beautiful hotels on the island.

Aruba is a safe place to go because of the Covid policies they have in place. To go, guests are required to have a negative molecular Covid-19 test result, insurance, and fill out a basic health assessment. If you’re looking for a safe place to visit, Aruba is a very good choice.

Related: Why Cozumel should be on your list of places to go

Bahamas

Have you noticed the ads for Atlantis on TV? People on waterslides, splashing in pools, and just having a good time. I’m not crazy about commercials, but seeing these makes me feel good. With relatively short and affordable flights, a trip to the Bahamas is the perfect “quick getaway” for anyone living from the mid-west to the east coast.

Guests 11 years and older will have to provide a negative PCR test taken within 7 days before arrival, apply for a Bahamas health travel visa (which sounds much more complicated than it is!), and opt-in to Covid-19 health insurance. While you’re there, take a rum sipping tour – it’s delicious and LOTS of fun.

Dominican Republic

The DR is more than just a Spring Break party destination! Whether it’s a guys/girls trip, romantic getaway, or family vacation, there are countless resorts to fit every budget. As of this writing (1/11/21) there is no negative test requirement to visit the Dominican Republic. Instead, officials will randomly give a breath test to 10% of arriving passengers and, of course, to anyone showing symptoms.

Mexico

Oddly, American’s can’t drive across the border into Mexico, but flying is no problem. At the moment (1/11/21) there is no negative test requirement but there are temperature checks and other health screening on arrival. I love Cozumel, but there are numerous resorts on gorgeous beaches all over the country.

St. Lucia

If you decide on St. Lucia as your safe place to go, you’ll need to provide a negative PCR test taken within 7 days of arrival. You’ll also need to fill out a travel authorization form and stay in an approved facility. On arrival and while you’re there, you’ll have to take random temperature checks and other health screenings.

When you’re deciding on a place that’s safe to visit, perhaps the most important thing to consider when you’re deciding where to go is what the policies are in your home state. Some states have strict quarantine policies for anyone leaving the state — much less the country! — and others have no requirements whatsoever.

Wherever you choose to go, make sure you’ve got the advice of a travel agent who knows the ins and outs of traveling during a pandemic. Use the contact form if you’d like my assistance — it’s free.