With the COVID-19 pandemic in full swing, it’s probably been tough for you to travel. Travel restrictions are particularly tight right now, especially for Americans. It won’t be long until pandemic restrictions have eased, but if you need to go, knowing a few things ahead of time will help. Can you visit your favorite spots right now? If you can, is it possible to do the things you want to do?

Restrictions

There are lots of places that are completely off-limits during the pandemic and many of which are only partially restricted. Picking someplace which is both open and not restricted might be your best option at the moment. There are many amazing destinations here in the U.S. which are available for traveling nationally. It is a great time to investigate national destinations!

Where You Can Go

Most of the Pacific Islands and South Sea islands are fully closed at this time. As discussed above, there are websites where you can see which restrictions are in place. Some countries have formal plans in place to reopen, with specific dates announced. Others are more nebulous as they try to get the virus under control. As much as you want to go visit those world heritage sites, you want to make sure to be respectful of local regions and peoples. Some areas are just not possible to go to right now. Quarantine stations are in place in many countries to prevent the further spread of COVID-19.

Know the New Rules

If you are going to travel to any of the countries that have opened up to American tourists, make sure you follow local rules and restrictions. Your trip can be spectacular, and you can discover new cultures and favorite locales, but only if you’re willing to make sure to be compliant with local laws. Tourists have been jailed for refusal to quarantine, and that’s not a situation you want to get into! Make sure you’ve done your research into the area and culture, even if you’ve been there before. There might be new laws involved.

You absolutely can travel this gorgeous world, if you do it carefully and following local and international protocols for the virus. You need to see the beautiful earth around you, and your travel helps small local communities. But you have to make sure that you do so responsibly and while making sure that all those local communities are protected. Then, next time, you will have a new favorite place to return to visit!

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