It’s no secret the past two years have been more than rocky for travel, and despite the bumpy start to 2022, we are manifesting those good vibes and good times for this year! Don’t know about you, but we’re feeling 22 (not 2020 too!!). All T-Swift references aside, there sure is a lot of making up to be done after all that travel deprivation the past two years. And we’re more than ready for it!
Travel post-pandemic may look a little different now. Those ever-changing travel restrictions during ‘unprecedented times’ makes it that little bit more stressful, but that travel bucket list is still very real and we’re more than ready to start ticking it off again! So the big question is, where to go in 2022!? Well here’s a list of not only destinations that are worth putting on your radar, but also destinations that are currently easy to travel to and are travel friendly. Because let’s be real, we want to avoid that pandemic airport stress as much as possible, it’s meant to be a holiday after all!
1. Costa Rica
Live your best ‘Pura Vida’ life in Costa Rica! Think lush jungles, idyllic beaches, wildlife galore and volcanic landscapes. From ziplining, hiking, jungle safaris and white water rafting, Costa Rica is an adventure lover’s dream and is more than worth putting on your radar.
Can I travel to Costa Rica?
At the moment, Costa Rica is up there on our list of easiest countries to travel to as it currently doesn’t require a negative Covid test prior to arrival and you simply just have to have the right travel insurance policy. And let’s be honest, it would be silly not to have travel insurance anyways! You need to fill out an electronic form in advance to receive a health pass and away you go! You can ready more about Costa Rica’s entry requirements here.
2. Sri Lanka
Home to one of the most beautiful train journeys, stunning hikes, incredible surf beaches, flavourful food, and timeless ancient ruins, for a small island nation, Sri Lanka sure packs a punch in all departments! Sri Lanka has something for everyone and if it’s not on your bucket list yet, here’s your sign!
Can I travel to Sri Lanka?
If you’re a fully vaccinated traveller, all you’ll have to do is have a negative PCR test on arrival, from here you’ll be able to stay in any type of accommodation and travel this beautiful country as you please! If you’re not fully vaccinated, you will need to stay in a ‘Flexible bio-bubble’. You can find out more on Sri Lanka’s entry requirements here.
Update:
Good news! From 27 February, the Sri Lankan government has announced that fully vaccinated travellers are no longer required to take a pre-departure test – Sri Lanka, we’re coming for you!!
3. Croatia
Whether you’re into culture, nature, partying, history or food, Croatia has it! Even iconic filming locations *queue Game of Thrones theme song*. Bask your days away in the sunshine, swim in the turquoise Adriatic, visit picturesque seashores, quaint cobbled towns, ancient walled cities and impressive national parks. Croatia is that Mediterranean heaven you’ve been dreaming of and one of the best ways to experience all it has to offer is by sailing! A Croatia sailing tour will be a week you’ll never forget!
Can I travel to Croatia?
Luckily for you, Croatia’s travel restrictions are pretty light, meaning you can live your best sailing life with ease! Croatia’s borders are currently open and there are no quarantine requirements, however you will need to complete an online form for arrival. If you’re fully vaccinated, you will just need to provide proof of vaccination. If you’re not vaccinated you will need to complete either a negative PCR up to 72 hours before or an antigen test up to 48 hours before departure. Read up more about Croatia’s entry requirements here.
4. Egypt
It’s no secret that Egypt has been on the radar and bucket list of many travellers. I mean how can you not have the Great Pyramids of Giza on your bucket list!? However, Egypt isn’t just dessert and ancient wonders. From incredible scuba diving in the Red Sea, to colourful Nubian villages and sailing along the Nile on a traditional Felucca, Egypt is sure to captivate and intrigue you with each step of the journey.
Can I travel to Egypt?
Big YES! Egypt is currently very traveller friendly at the moment and is open for tourism with many flight options available. If you are fully vaccinated, you don’t need to provide a negative test on arrival and are able to enter simply with your vaccination certificate. If you aren’t vaccinated, you will need to provide a negative PCR test taken 72 hours before departure. Read more about entry requirements and e-Visas here.
5. Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia is one of those places that’s still incredibly underrated and a hidden gem with a whole lot to offer! So you’ll want to add this country to your list before more word gets out! Watch the locals jump off the iconic UNESCO-listed Stari-Most bridge, wander the cobbled streets of Mostar and learn about the country’s humbling history in Sarajevo. From stunning mountains, a humbling history and quaint charming villages, Bosnia is sure to impress and intrigue.
Can I travel to Bosnia?
Like many other destinations on this list, Bosnia is also open for travel with no quarantine restrictions! If you are fully vaccinated and can provide proof, you won’t need to provide a negative Covid test. However, if you are not fully vaccinated, you will need to provide a negative PCR test within 48 hours of departure. Read more about Bosnia’s entry requirements here.
6. Bulgaria
Another not so touristy Balkan country, but hidden gem not to be overlooked is Bulgaria. With a blend of rugged mountains, sunny beaches, a vibrant nightlife and incredible hiking, plus add in the affordable prices, Bulgaria is a destination that is sure to surprise you! Particularly if you’re a bit of an adrenaline junkie, you’ll want to add Bansko to your radar! Forget your typical expensive European ski holidays, hitting the slopes of Bansko is where it’s at. From the stunning mountains, to the fun Apres-Ski scene, you’ll be in for the ultimate ski holiday that’s kind to your wallet!
Can I travel to Bulgaria?
The slopes of Bansko are calling because Bulgaria is open! Like most of the other destinations, you will just need to provide proof of full vaccination. And if not, then provide either a negative PCR test within 72 hours or negative antigen test within 48 hours of departure. Read more about Bulgaria’s entry requirements here
Well there you have it, ready to make 2022 your year? Go on, you deserve it! Two years worth of travel to make up for, so what are you waiting for!?
For more inspo, check out our blogs here and feel free to contact us with any questions at [email protected].
Please note: this is just a guide to entry requirements for the following destinations. Restrictions can change and be updated at any time, it is your responsibility to check entry requirements prior to travel.