After years of shelter-in-place orders and border closings, travelers around the world are finally packing their bags for a much needed vacation. And it seems that quite a few holiday-makers have the same destination in mind: Hawaii. Hawaii’s beauty and allure are indisputable. But the Aloha state has been overrun with tourists; so much so that even the local government is encouraging tourists to stay away.
Fortunately, there are plenty of destinations that are just as beautiful and alluring. Here are five alternatives to Hawaii that are less crowded but just as stunning. We’ve also added information about the required documentation, including travel insurance, required for entry.
Cozumel, Mexico
Tucked away in the Yucatan Peninsula, the island of Cozumel, Mexico boasts a bevy of beautiful beaches made for snorkeling, scuba diving, and just plain relaxing. This makes it a perfect alternative to a Hawaiian getaway.
Travel requirements: All foreign travelers must have a valid passport and receive the necessary vaccines. Neither the Covid vaccine nor a negative test result is required to enter Mexico. However, your home country might require this for your return.
Liberia, Costa Rica
From lounging on the beach to hiking in one of Costa Rica’s national parks, this might be the spot for you. Liberia is also great for snorkeling and scuba diving and experiencing the adrenaline rush of other adventure sports. Instead of the aloha spirit, you can revel in the “pura vida” or pure life spirit.This hotspot has the versatility to make your getaway anything you want it to be.
Travel requirements: All foreign travelers must have a valid passport and must complete the electronic Health Pass within 72 hours of traveling to Costa Rica. Foreign visitors to Costa Rica must also receive the required vaccinations. If you are fully vaccinated against Covid you must show proof of vaccination.
Nassau, Bahamas
If you are up for a trip to the Bahamas, Nassau, the country’s capital has a lot to offer. Similar to Hawaii, you’ll find some of the best beaches in the world. From relaxing on the beach to hitting the town at night, you’ll always find something to do here..
Travel requirements: Foreign travelers to the Bahamas need a valid passport and must have the required vaccinations. If you are fully vaccinated from Covid, you need to show proof of vaccination. If you aren’t vaccinated, you need to produce a negative test result that is no more than five days old. All travelers 18 and older are required to complete an individual Bahamas Travel Health Visa.
Montego Bay, Jamaica
Duty-free shopping, beautiful beaches and authentic jerk dishes make Montego Bay one of the most sought-after destinations out there. It’s also a bustling port of call for many cruises.
Travel requirements: Foreign travelers to Jamaica need a valid passport and have the required vaccinations. All passengers should obtain a travel authorization document prior to departure. You can begin the process by registering through the country’s Travel Authorization portal. A negative Covid test result taken within three days of your planned departure is required.
Oranjestad, Aruba
In Oranjestad, luxurious beaches meet luxury shopping. Whenever you tire of sunbathing or shopping, you can hit the capital city for some extraordinary cuisine, take a pleasure boat tour, or explore Fort Zoutman, where every Tuesday tourists can participate in the indigenous people’s Bon Bini Festival
Travel requirements: Foreign travelers to Aruba need a valid passport, a filled and signed Embarkation and Disembarkation card, a valid return/departure ticket, required vaccinations. Some eligible U.S. travelers may provide proof of vaccination instead of testing. Some travelers may be required to provide proof of adequate finances and lodging accommodations for the duration of their stay.
Whether you plan on taking a vacation later this summer or decide to put off your getaway a little longer, these five amazing destinations will be waiting for you. And when you do decide to pack your bags, VisitorsCoverage will be there to keep you safe.
