Welcome to Friday around the planet, a roundup of some of the travel-related news and inspiration you might have missed over the past week.
This roundup was created at the beginning of the year as Omicron cases surged and travel restrictions fluctuated. It was challenging to keep track of everything during those times, but this effort aims to assist travelers in sorting through the noise.
Now, with a decline in Omicron cases, it feels like we are approaching a new normal (although such feelings have been misleading before). In response to this shift, this column will evolve slightly.
While you will still find an overview of the entry requirements that have changed over the past week, there will be more emphasis on highlighting the inspiring stories published by our team. At the very least, my hope is that this provides a reprieve from doom-scrolling, allowing you to experience all the wonderful places and people around the globe.
Entry Requirement Changes This Week
As international COVID-19 cases decrease, several governments worldwide have relaxed their entry requirements. Here are some notable changes from the past week:
- Ireland: Ends COVID restrictions for incoming travelers.
- India: Will resume regular international flights one week after Holi celebrations.
- Puerto Rico: Set to scrap most COVID rules.
- Greece: Will eliminate its Passenger Locator Form requirement.
- Malaysia: Will allow quarantine-free travel starting in April.
Inspiration from the Outdoors
For those who enjoy nature, Arizona’s The Wave is making it easier to enter the daily lottery as the Bureau of Land Management is transitioning the in-person lottery to mobile devices. The twist? You still need to be physically present in the area as the system uses geofencing technology, ensuring applicants can attend a safety briefing before the hike. For those seeking an alternative less complicated hike, consider other options.
Places to Wander
As March rolls in, the beach calls, promising relaxation. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for activities in Santa Barbara or aiming to uncover the top spots that make Ibiza enchanting, allow this section to aid your daydreaming about your next trip.
Experiences to Remember
Rather than facing the spring break crowds at a beach, consider the tranquility of natural hot springs. Discover 10 places in the United States where you can experience the charm of geothermal wonders.
In addition to hot springs, there are numerous other opportunities for unforgettable experiences:
- Ghost Towns: Explore some of the coolest ghost towns in the United States.
- Kayaking: Seek out seven epic kayaking destinations for adventurous experiences.
- Mayan Architecture: Visit the best Mayan sites in Central America.
