13 of the Safest Vacations You Can Take This Summer
Updated: May. 26, 2020When looking for a safe place to travel, try to find your fun where the crowds aren't flocking and where lockdowns have lifted.
Bermuda
The British isle with the famous pink sand beach is approaching phase two of its reopening, with beaches and golf courses already welcoming visitors. While impacted by the novel coronavirus, Bermuda has seen only 125 positive tests as of May 18. Being sparsely populated not only reduced the spread of the pandemic but will help to make Bermuda a safe place to travel after lockdowns are lifted. At the time of publication, Bermuda's borders remain closed to visitors but the country's Tourism Authority is giving those dreaming of a safe, relaxing beach holiday in Hamilton, Southampton or St. George's some comfort when they say: "Rest assured, once normalcy returns and safe travel resumes, we stand ready to welcome you to our beautiful shores." Until that day comes, satisfy your wanderlust with these photos of the most gorgeous pink sand beaches in the world.
Saint Lucia
With only 18 positive COVID-19 cases since the start of the pandemic and zero reported coronavirus-related deaths, Saint Lucia is ready to safely welcome travelers looking for a tropical escape when the first phase of reopening the Caribbean island begins on June 4. To maintain the health of the island's residents and its guests, various safety protocols are being implemented, including requiring tourists to present certified proof of a negative COVID-19 test within 48 hours of boarding their flight, continued use of face masks, and ongoing physical distancing. Additionally, travelers to Saint Lucia will be subject to screening and temperature checks by port authorities. While this will likely seem cumbersome to some travelers, what Saint Lucia is doing to ensure a coronavirus-free environment offers a glimpse into the future of safe travel when lockdowns have lifted.
Scottish Highlands
At the time of writing, like most other destinations, this magical place in the north of Scotland remains locked down for the safety of its residents. But as travel restrictions ease around the world, one of the safest places in the entire world and certainly one of the prettiest, are the Highlands of Scotland. Whether you want to look for the Loch Ness monster, ride the picture-perfect Jacobite Steam Train, tour castles, trek through Britain's largest National Park, or explore the Highland's compact capital city of Inverness on foot, this special place of the world offers a safe, naturally socially-distant getaway. For lovers who have grown closer during the coronavirus pandemic, partake in the Scottish wedding ritual known as handfasting while in the Highlands. In the meantime, take a gander at these jaw-dropping photos of Scotland.
Staycations
Even as stay-at-home orders are lifted, one could argue that the safest travel in the age of coronavirus is a staycation. Now, you may think that being at home and surrounded by your familiar messes and piles of laundry doesn't make for a memorable vacation, but there's a way to do it right. A staycation can feel like, if not an exotic getaway, at least a getaway from everyday life. Enjoy takeout meals from local independent restaurants you haven't tried, spend time in that state park, or the museum you keep meaning to visit and bring the spa experience you would receive at a fancy resort to your family room. Have kids at home? Check out Traveling Mom's parent-tested staycation tips. Find out the best staycation idea in every state.