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written by Helen Fanthorpe
updated 8.12.2020
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written by Helen Fanthorpe
updated 8.12.2020
If you’re itching to get abroad for the festive season, the good news is that there are still some stellar destinations welcoming tourists to their shores. From the bleach-white beaches of the Maldives to wildlife-rich Costa Rica and a glitzy getaway in the UAE, here are 10 countries open for travel during Covid. Be sure to check your government’s advice (and legal restrictions) first, in case they’ve issued a warning against all but essential travel worldwide; it's also worth checking if you'll be subject to a quarantine on return. If you want to wait a bit longer for your festive escape, there are some great deals to be had by settling a deposit now.
Here at Rough Guides, we work with local experts in more than seventy destinations worldwide to offer a range of fabulous – and totally customizable – trip itineraries. Some of these countries have already reopened their borders, and others are offering great deals and special prices. Browse the sample itineraries below or just send in your request here; please note that some of these itineraries may be adapted due to current coronavirus restrictions – our local experts can answer all your questions. As ever, your peace of mind is paramount, so all our tailor-made trips come with a money-back guarantee to cover any financial default of tour operators. In addition, we highly recommend taking out comprehensive insurance before finalizing any travel plans.
Aerial view of Maldives resort © Siraphob Werakijpanich/Shuterstock
Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacan, Mexico © Dmitry Rukhlenko/Shutterstock
Ngorongoro Crater wildlife, Tanzania © Travel Stock/Shutterstock
A spider monkey in Corcovado National Park in Costa Rica © Kit Korzun/Shutterstock
Panamanian dancer in traditional attire © NeblettStudio/Shutterstock
Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Abu Zabi © Luciano Mortula - LGM/Shutterstock
Trinidad, Cuba © Maurizio De Mattei/Shutterstock
Zebra in Tsavo National Park, Kenya © ANTONIO JIMENO JIMENEZ/Shutterstock
Cathedral San Pedro Claver in Cartagena, Colombia © Chrispictures/Shutterstock
Travelling to a fellow EU country over the Christmas period is a great way to explore the countries on your doorstep without the crowds. Strolling secluded streets and frequenting empty cafés – all without the tourist hoards – is a surreal and magical experience. If you’re after some Christmas magic, choose somewhere like Austria, where gluhwein stands provide festive outdoor colour. Decrease any Covid risks further by taking a rental car.
Town and fortress of Klis near Split, Croatia © xbrchx/Shutterstock
If you still haven't decided on a destination for your trip, perhaps our guide to unique travel experiences can help you decide.
There are many other countries that are open for travel during Covid – for example a number of Caribbean island-nations – but these are our top picks. While travel may still be restricted by your government, you can settle a deposit now for dates throughout 2021. There’s no time like the present to book the holiday of your dreams.
written by Helen Fanthorpe
updated 8.12.2020
Helen worked as a Senior Travel Editor at Rough Guides and Insight Guides, based in the London office. Among her favourite projects to work on are inspirational guides like Make the most of your time on Earth, the ultimate travel bucket list.
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