Escape COVID-19 In These 7 Socially Distant Destinations
5. Utah
Despite its popularity with rock climbers and mountain bikers, Utah is an enormously underrated destination. The state houses three of America’s most famous national parks: Arches, Zion, and Bryce. The only practical method for exploring Utah is by car, which means you’ll be maintaining optimal distance from folks while traveling. Hit the hiking trails early and wear a face mask if the path seems busy. Or pull over where you can, park, and go for a walk without the protective cover. If you’re the adventurous hardcore traveler, rent a van or pickup truck and car camp. If you want to camp but need a bit more luxury, purchase a yurt and an air mattress and reserve an isolated camping spot to spend your evenings and mornings.
#ForTheCulture: Visit Monument Valley, one of America’s most photographed natural wonders that’s not part of the United States (in a traditional sense). Monument Valley belongs to the Navajo Nation and, consequently, is not part of the United States National Park system.
Must-See Highlights: Arches National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park
4. Iceland
If your pockets run deep, Iceland might be the perfect place to live out your isolationist fantasy. The island is expensive, but its most beautiful regions are in remote locations accessible by highway. Optimize your trip by finding isolated lodging en route to the highlights, and grocery shop to avoid eating out. Fill your days driving, photographing waterfalls, hiking across glaciers, and minding your own damn business. COVID-19 testing is required for all travelers arriving in Iceland through KevlavÃk International Airport. If a passenger’s results are negative, they can enter the country without a mandatory two-week quarantine.
#ForTheCulture: Visit the town of Djúpivogur. In 1802, the first man of African descent arrived here from western Europe. Hans Jonatan was a slave, soldier, and slave again before escaping Denmark by boat for Iceland. Working as a peasant farmer and eventually managing the local trading post, Hans made plenty of extra lemonade by marrying and fathering three children. Now, Iceland’s first Black visitor has at least 800 descendants living in the country.
3. Mallorca
Caves, vineyards, rustic towns, deserted beaches, hikes, seafood, stunning AirBnB rentals, and affordable prices make Mallorca a must-visit destination. The roughest part of your trip will be arriving at the packed international airport. Grab a rental car and immediately head for some of the smaller towns. Spend a full-day driving the island’s loop, pulling over to snap photographs, and avoiding the crowds. Starting on July 1st, visitors to Spain will not be required to quarantine on arrival. “The worst is behind us,” Foreign Minister Arancha Gonzalez Laya tweeted. “In July we will gradually open Spain to international tourists, lift the quarantine, [and] ensure the highest standards of health safety. We look forward to welcoming you!”
