Pandemic Wanderlust: 6 Places to Travel to in 2021
As the Covid-19 vaccines roll out into 2021, despite our weary optimism, there is light on the horizon — and a promise of a return to some measure of normalcy. And with that, comes the delight of considering where to adventure to next!
Whilst we may not be able to travel freely anywhere just yet, we can plan. Here are some magnificent wet-your-travel-appetite wanderlust ideas to inspire you to get planning, if only in your head for now.
Photo by Jeremy Dorrough on Unsplash
1. Maldives
For some, it might be paradise that is calling — and it doesn’t get much more idyllic than the Maldives. Picture-perfect villas hover over brilliant aqua-blue waters amidst white-sand beaches. Heaven. Plus, thanks to a multitude of restaurants, high-speed Wi-Fi and indulgent spas, the Maldives is a paradise that doesn’t leave you yearning for any sophisticated creature comforts. Soak up the sun island-style as you swing in a hammock by the pristine water or explore the depths of the Arabian sea with a scuba diving excursion — all to be reflected upon as you sip cocktails before a spectacular tropical sunset.
2. Japan
With the delayed 2020 Olympics set to take place in late 2021, Tokyo may be the place to head to. With the snow-capped mountain peaks of Hokkaido, Kyoto’s golden temples or the bright and energised feel of Osaka, Japan is a beautiful country of wonder. Bathe in a steamy, soothing onsen (Japanese hot spring) or learn the art of the geisha in Gion. Getting around is also super easy with Japan’s famous zippy bullet trains that link everything up. Ah, breakfast sushi at dawn from the Tokyo Tsukiji fish market, does it get any better than that?
3. New Zealand
As one of the countries that has dealt with Covid-19 the most effectively, New Zealand may very well have been bumped up many a bucket list, becoming a top spot to visit in 2021. They certainly also have no shortage of wide-open spaces for any continued social distancing that may still need to be adhered to. The country is essentially divided into two regions — the North and South Island. The North Island offers up some big city travel to the likes of Auckland and Wellington, with some geysers, beaches and hot springs thrown in. The South Island is the country’s adventure capital, where bungee jumping and heli-hiking are just some of the adrenalin-pumping experiences that await you amidst the Southern Alps and the glaciers.
4. Greece
For any history enthusiasts, Greece is undoubtedly on your bucket list anyway, and being one of the first countries to reopen its tourist borders, may now be worthy of the top spot. Thanks to its archaeological delights and stunning climate and landscapes, Greece really does have something for everyone. Many choose to spend the first couple of nights taking in the grandeur and history of Athens before heading out to the gorgeous islands dotted around the coast. Scenic Santorini and the more lively hotspot of Mykonos are also particular favorites. The Mediterranean culture and delicious food are also stand-out experiences in themselves.
5. Peru
Ah, Peru, is there truly anywhere more magical on earth? With its stunning landscape and rich, historical past, Peru is, for many, a once in a lifetime experience that may be exactly what any starved traveler needs as soon as the pandemic conditions allow. Wide-open spaces, phenomenal Inca trail treks, and, of course, exploring the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu itself are only some of Peru’s charms. Gaze at the spectacular sight of condors soaring amidst the Colca Canyon or, if you’re feeling more adventurous, head to the desert oasis of Huacachina for a day of dune-buggying or sandboarding! Peru is a wonderland of adventure.
6. The Swiss Alps
If awe-inspiring walks in the fresh air are the order of the day, then look no further than the Swiss Alps. After the chaos of the last year, getting out into nature on a spectacular scale may be just what you need. Simply taking in the Alpine goodness along the shores of Lake Geneva might suffice, but perhaps better topped off by checking into one the country’s many world-renowned spas.
Final thoughts
There are so many exquisite locations to choose from and this is just a taste of the ideas you can throw around for your next adventure. Only you know whether the conditions of the past year have left you needing a deeply relaxing time, some adrenaline-pumping activity, an awe-inspiring historical exploration, or all of the above! The world is certainly eagerly awaiting our return to travel.
