Though the COVID pandemic brought many of our travel plans to a halt, I am optimistic about the future. With the first vaccines rolling out, the light is finally starting to appear at the end of the tunnel. Travel in 2021 will be a personal decision - many are longing to get away and others will continue to dream from their couches. Regardless of your stance, I hope that these travel ideas provide inspiration and ignite your wanderlust.

It’s important to remember that there’s more to travel than just pretty pictures on Instagram. Travel supports the livelihood of communities and the conservation of precious environments. Tourism is a critical revenue source for nearly every country in the world. I confidently believe that safe, responsible travel is possible, especially with the new health requirements that airlines, hotels, and tour operators have in place.

For those who decide to travel, it is important to take all steps to keep yourself and others safe. The CDC recommends taking a COVID test one to three days before travel and another five days after travel, plus reducing nonessential activities for seven days after travel. Be sure to check entry requirements, too, as most countries have strict protocols.

If you’re wondering where are the best places to safely travel in 2021, check out the list below highlighting both domestic adventures and far flung bucket list destinations.

Domestic Adventures

COVID taught Americans to get back to basics and embrace the road trip. Suddenly a weekend down the Jersey shore felt novel and luxurious. An overnight camping adventure was bold and rejuvenating. Even post-pandemic, I think we will continue to dedicate time to exploring our own bigggg beautiful backyard.

Tip: Look at a map and check out the states surrounding you. Is there a beach that you have always wanted to visit? A mountain range that you’ve never heard of? There is always somewhere new to discover.

For the East Coasters, here are some ideas for overnight or weekend trips:

Cape May, New Jersey - A historic beachfront town with stately mansions, locals with genuine hospitality, and coastal farms and wineries, reminiscent of a Southern seaside getaway. Check out my Cape May travel guide here.

Poconos, Pennsylvania - Revisit this childhood pastime and rediscover the magic of Penn’s Woods.

Lake George, New York - This iconic lake with deep blue waters has Adirondack mountain views.

The Finger Lakes, New York - Eleven long and narrow lakes offer water activities, hiking in state parks, and waterfront wine tasting.

The Catskills, New York - Amazing hiking and camping in forested mountains with babbling brooks.

The Berkshires, Massachusetts - A rural region of Western Massachusetts with stunning mountains, charming villages, fresh farm to table dining, and a thriving arts scene.

Woodstock, Vermont - A picture perfect Vermont town with covered bridges and a quaint main street, near all of the state's recreational offerings.

Newport, Rhode Island - Pack your J Crew for this preppy, yachtie paradise - don’t miss the Cliff Walk and a stroll past the Gilded Age mansions.

Old Saybrook, Connecticut - One of Connecticut’s oldest towns, set on the Long Island Sound. This laid-back region has some of the best seafood in America.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts - A quintessential New England summertime getaway with multiple seaside villages to choose from.

St. Michael’s, Maryland - An idyllic waterfront village on a tributary of the Chesapeake Bay, perfect for a day of sailing and crabbing.

Middleburg, Virginia - A low-key country town with chic boutiques and an impressive winery and brewery trail.

For the National Park lovers, here’s my top 10 list:

Yellowstone National Park - America’s first National Park, where wolves, elk, and buffalo herds live next to geothermal geysers and multi colored pools.

Yosemite National Park - Boasts the tallest waterfall in North America, majestic granite mountains, giant sequoia trees, and soaring bald eagles.

Grand Canyon National Park - The panoramic views of the Grand Canyon literally take your break away.

Zion National Park - The scenery along the Zion Narrows hike feels otherworldly. Attempt Angels Landing if you are brave, using chains to help guide you up the spiny ridgeline.

Arches National Park - Arches has a Martian-like landscape too, with over 2,000 sandstone arches and impressive formations to wander around.

Shenandoah National Park - This was the first place that I saw bears up close, so it’s memorable to me. Skyline Drive has scenic views around every twist and turn, with easily accessible hikes.

Rocky Mountain National Park - Gorgeous lakes and mountain peaks to explore, with 60 peaks over 12,000 feet.

Acadia National Park - Here you can catch the first glimpse of the sunrise in the US on top of a jagged mountain jetting out from the coastline.

Glacier National Park - This one is still on my list, but I did get to visit the gorgeous state of Montana this past summer. The beauty of Montana is pure and the wilderness feels untouched.

Tropical Getaways

Sometimes you just need to get away from it all and relax on the beach for a few days with a piña colada in hand. Here are some tropical destinations that are open to Americans:

Turks and Caicos - I safely traveled to Turks and Caicos during the pandemic and cannot wait to return. Read about my experience here.

The Bahamas - Don’t overlook this classic Caribbean destination with easy flight access, white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and fun, welcoming locals.

Mexico - Cabo, Riviera Nayarit, and the Yucatán Peninsula have some of the most pristine beaches in Mexico. You can include adventures to ancient Mayan ruins and cenotes too.

Maldives - This chain of over 1,000 islands in the Indian Ocean is the ultimate example of seclusion and luxury.

Hawaii - You don’t even need a passport to experience the Polynesian charm and beauty of Hawaii.

French Polynesia - South of Hawaii in the South Pacific Islands, Moorea and Bora Bora are some of the most picturesque islands in the world, with rich coral reefs, tropical jungles, and volcanic peaks.

Costa Rica - Explore the rugged beaches or the diverse wildlife in this Central American gem, a global leader in conservation and sustainability.

Bucket List Trips

If you are ready to spread your wings, these international bucket list destinations are open for you to explore:

Go on safari - Once you experience the thrill and the magic of an African safari, you are hooked for life. Read about my time in South Africa and Tanzania, the best locations for first timers.

Trek with gorillas - One of the safest countries in Africa, Rwanda is lush, green, and clean. Trek with gorillas in Volcanoes National Park and pass bamboo and eucalyptus forests, tea plantations, and swampy river valleys.

Explore ancient Egypt - Discover the ancient history of Egypt and its architectural wonders with limited crowds.

Visit the United Arab Emirates - Visit the cosmopolitan and flashy cities Dubai and Abu Dhabi or head to a desert oasis to experience the Bedouin culture and mystical Arabian nights.

The COVID pandemic forced me to think critically about the power of tourism and the livelihood that it provides for millions of families. I am excited to share my knowledge and help support responsible travel. Please reach out to me with any questions or if you are looking for personalized suggestions.

Adventure awaits!

xx Kathryn