As countries re-open and vaccines continue to rollout, travel searches begin again, and wanderlust returns. As more people become vaccinated, we see more tourists and higher flight prices. So what destination comes to mind after over a year and a half of isolation? Since many have had to avoid more concentrated areas, larger cities in the U.S. are now hotspots for travel. However, many travelers have their eyes on cities abroad as travel slowly expands worldwide once again.
With vaccinations and safety guidelines, here are some popular places people have been waiting to enjoy safely. According to Insider, these cities are the most searched after news of Moderna’s efficacy rate was released.
1. London
London offers alluring architecture and a stimulating city lifestyle. Its prime location offers countless activities inside and outside the city. Exploration of its historic streets, towns, beaches, and summits gives London a reserved spot at the top of many tourists’ bucket lists. According to CNN, travelers need to display a negative Covid test from within a 72-hour window prior to arrival.
2. Paris
One of the most romantic cities in the world, Paris provides a plethora of museums, restaurants, cafes, and historic city streets for that cinematic nightly stroll. Paris stands still in its beauty and people are drawn to its intimate and vibrant lifestyle. Although re-opening, the last of the restrictions will be lifted on June 30th according to the New York Times, with proof of vaccination (vaccine card) and a negative Covid test prior to arrival.
3. Copenhagen
Infamous for its architecture, the capital of Denmark continues to be a desired attraction for tourists post-pandemic. Why? It is referred to by some as the happiest country in the world, even with a newly opened Happiness Museum. Copenhagen tourists with full vaccination proof can visit without continued testing unless children have not received vaccinations according to Travel + Leisure. Copenhagen is the perfect location to marvel at the innovative architecture and unique museums.
4. Manchester
Another museum-goer magnet, Manchester offers a wide variety of historic and modern museums at no cost. Despite its beauty and culture, this is another perk of Manchester that makes the highly desirable tourist attraction more affordable. Not to mention its fine dining scene, nightlife, famous beer, markets, and easy transportation that make this English city so seductive.
5. Madrid
Ah, Madrid, another capital that brings liveliness to the monotonous pace that so many people have gotten comfortable with since pandemic isolation changed our lifestyles. The bustling, vibrant, and musical Madrid brings a new taste of tourism to the lives of culture-hungry travelers. The city’s layout makes it fairly easy to navigate, in close proximity to a few beaches, and a multitude of parks makes daily activities constantly exciting. The food and drink scene is just another bonus to the loaded itinerary many Madrid tourists will experience. Travelers must receive full-vaccination status 14 days prior to arrival and will need to display a QR code affirming their status in the country’s health portal according to USA Today.
Many influencers and tourists are taking advantage of re-openings and new experiences that seemed impossible just a few months ago. However, although the world is beginning to reopen again, it is still important to follow safety precautions and protocols depending on the city or country you visit. These places are just a few that we are all excited to visit or add to our bucket lists.