As the year 2020 comes to a much-anticipated end and we can hopefully all let go of the struggles that the year has brought, especially in regards to the inability to easily travel. We hope that the new year brings a fresh start and opens the door to new and exciting opportunities. To start your year off right, we have compiled some of the safest locations to visit post-COVID.

An African Safari in Tanzania or Zimbabwe

Tanzania is known for its stunning panoramas, vast wildlife, and is regarded as a large cultural mixing pot. It is also home to one of the largest mountains in the world, Mount Kilimanjaro. When you visit, you will be made to feel at home with the kind-hearted locals, like the Maasai tribe. You’ll be greeted with some of the world’s most majestic creatures, which include Elephants, Lions, and Rhinoceros. When visiting as a family there are tons of options for everyone to enjoy. We recommend embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime safari expedition through Serengeti National Park, to see remarkably diverse landscapes and wildlife. Go chimp trekking in the rainforests in the north. Or visit the gorgeous white sand beaches of Zanzibar.

Zimbabwe is another safe destination to visit as a family, with a similar culture and hospitality like Tanzania. Here, you can also embark on a safari expedition to seek out the ‘Big Five’ (elephant, buffalo, rhino, lion, and leopard)! or you could hop on a boat cruise down the Chobe River and get up close to crocodiles, exotic fish, and beautiful birds.

Chasing the Northern Lights in Iceland

Iceland is known as the land of ‘Fire and Ice’ and home to elves and folklore, and it’s easy to understand why. The landscape is unworldly and feels like something straight out of a fairytale. On top of the stunning landscape and rich history, Iceland is also known for its hospitality and safety. In this country, it is often encouraged for travelers to hitchhike across the island as a means of transportation. During the height of the summer months, you’ll be able to enjoy daylight 24/7. Which makes soaking in the natural geothermal hot springs so much more appealing. You can stopover at the Blue Lagoon or find a secret hot spring off the beaten path.  In the winter, the endless darkness may seem daunting, yet being able to catch a glimpse of the vibrant aurora borealis is a journey on its own. 

Hot Air Balloon Rides in Turkey

Though the capital, Istanbul, previously known as Constantinople, is a fascinating place, being set in-between two continents, home to the stunning Hagia Sophia, and host of the Grand Bazaar, Turkey’s region of Cappadocia should not be overlooked. Cappadocia has some of the most stunning landscapes with whimsical spiky rock formations, cave dwellings that serve as homes, businesses, and accommodations, and historical underground civilizations open to the public to explore. This country is a great family destination. The sunrise journeys in the hot air balloons serving as an utter blast and breathtaking experience for those of all ages. 

Greece is also just a quick hop and skip away from Turkey and is another breathtaking and safe location to experience. Relax on the gorgeous beaches among the Greek Isles and indulge in delicious local cuisines. Greece is truly paradise.

Time Traveling in Cuba

Cuba offers so much when it comes to being an ideal destination. It’s no secret that Cuban hospitality shines among the rest. The food is out of this world, and Cuba is still an extremely affordable spot to visit. When traveling over to the island, you may feel as if you have traveled back in time. With an array of vintage vehicles getting you from point A to point B. Cuba is a great family destination with its gorgeous beaches and beautiful cities. You can go horseback riding, ziplining, or even learn the Cuban branded salsa as a family. It also serves as a refreshing and rejuvenating spot for solo travelers and couples.

Treasure and Troves of Morocco

Morocco is probably one of the most magical destinations. Offering gorgeous architecture throughout. Moroccan culture has such a long and rich history and you can surely feel and begin to understand it when visiting. There’s so much that Morocco has to offer for both families and solo travelers. Whether it’s exploring the famous blanketed blue city of Chefchaouen, journeying out to the Saharan desert, or trying culinary delicacies in the Fez. Morocco is the perfect location to visit and like many of the other destinations mentioned above, is known for its hospitable locals.

Llama Blessings in Peru

Peru is most commonly known for the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu and the famous llama blessings that are performed by the Andean people. It’s the perfect place to fully immerse yourself in a new culture. As the Indigenous Quechua people are the utmost friendliest and welcome all visitors to participate in their cultural customs. On top of the breathtaking Andes Mountain Range, Peru hosts a great portion of the lush Amazon rainforest. With opportunities to explore Peru’s stunning landscapes and the ability to experience music, dance, language, and cuisine by the locals, Peru is an ideal and safe location for all to enjoy.

Hiking Through Patagonia

If pristine mountain lakes, icefields, glaciers, and stunning mountain views are for you, then Patagonia is the perfect place to visit. Situated in the southern part of Chile and Argentina, Patagonia is a beautiful mountainous region perfect for skiing, snowshoeing, and spotting penguin colonies in the winter months and hiking, rafting, horseback riding, and swimming in the summer months. A perfect place to explore and breathe in the fresh mountain air for relaxation and rejuvenation.

The Ancient Civilizations of Egypt & Jordan

The ruins of Petra and the Great Pyramids are some of the greatest sites of the ancient world. Both Egypt and Jordan are culturally rich nations that offer a glimpse into their past and are top locations for history buffs. In Jordan, you can explore the ancient architecture, dig into some amazing cuisines, and spend the night under the desert sky in a Bedouin Beit Shar (goat-hair tent). In Egypt, you can explore pyramids, temples, and sail on the Nile. The history alone makes it worth visiting but the rich culture of both locations is not to be overlooked.

The Mountains of Nepal

Nepal is full of stunning landscapes. From jungles and rivers to lush grasslands and mountains with which Mount Everest is the highest regarded one. If you are looking for the ultimate adventure perhaps a journey up the tallest mountain in the world, Mount Everest is in your cards. The architecture is also something not to be missed. The gorgeous Buddhist and Hindu temples settle among the Himilayas and create the most picturesque views. The religious nature of Nepal passes off a sense of security to those who visit the country. and the kindness from the locals is not to go unmissed.

Seeking the Great Wildlife of the Galápagos Islands

When you hear of the Galápagos Islands you may think of Charles Darwin and the theory of evolution. These volcanic islands off the coast of Ecuador host some stunning landscapes and amazing biodiversity. Here you’ll have the opportunity to see all types of fish, birds, and reptiles, including the famous Galápagos tortoises. The lava tunnels, craters, and sandy beaches make for some fun exploration. Though some of the creatures on this island may seem a bit intimidating (especially the giant tortoises). The Galápagos Islands are very safe to explore.

Let’s hope that with the new year comes new breakthroughs and our love for travel can be replenished. Let’s start planning for when travel will be safe and accessible again!

Post written by Sophie Coderre