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While everyone has to make decisions that are right for them, some travelers are taking advantage of international destinations that are opening up to American travelers this holiday season. And we get it, because as travelers ourselves, the desire to experience the world hasn’t been stopped by 2020.
147%
Increase in search share
year-over-year
If you’re going to the Maldives
Break up lazy days on the beach with activities on the water. From snorkeling to water sports, there are tons of opportunities to get outside and get moving. Snorkel or dive the Banana Reef, where coral attracts all kinds of sea life.
Hacker tip
Romantic and adventurous, the Maldives is the perfect couples holiday escape. Check out the underwater ecosystem then enjoy a sunset picnic sampling local food like boshi mashuni (banana flower salad) or garudhiya (fish soup).
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French Polynesia
121%
Increase in search share
year-over-year
If you’re going to Bora Bora
Bora Bora. Famous for hosting royals and megastars alike. Travelers are using this island oasis as a great holiday escape (from their couches, from cold weather, from reality) – and we don’t blame them.
Hacker tip
You can’t go wrong with the food on Bora Bora. One of the island’s most iconic dishes is poisson cru – a meal of raw fish, coconut milk and lime juice similar to ceviche.
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US Virgin Islands
75%
Increase in search share
year-over-year
If you’re going to Saint Thomas
Travel passport-free to a paradise of beaches, seafood, snorkeling and golf. And while people are catching on, it’s still not as popular as some other Caribbean spots, which means fewer tourists.
Hacker tip
While the weather is typically balmy, it cools down a bit in December with the “Christmas Winds.” Visitors and locals alike claim that during this time, Secret Harbor is the island’s warmest beach.
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72%
Increase in search share
year-over-year
If you’re going to Saint Barts
With rugged terrain, Saint Barts is a Caribbean resort island that combines beachside relaxation with outdoor adventure. Go for what is sure to feel like a semi-private adventure.
Hacker tip
A visit to Saint Barts can bring about a sense of “normalcy” during an abnormal holiday season. While mask-wearing and social distancing are mandatory, most shops, hotels, restaurants and bars are fully open – even their yearly festivals and holiday celebrations are expected to go as planned.
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US Virgin Islands
68%
Increase in search share
year-over-year
If you’re going to Saint Croix
Travel to the US Virgin Islands without a passport. Saint Croix is the USVI’s largest island, with beautiful beaches, outdoor adventure and plenty of rum.
Hacker tip
Nighttime is when this island truly shines… literally. Saint Croix is home to two bioluminescent bays. Socially distanced night tours on see-through kayaks are currently available and will let you marvel at the millions of microorganisms that glow in the waters at night.
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51%
Increase in search share
year-over-year
If you’re going to Saint Lucia
Caribbean escapes are the perfect winter getaway. Saint Lucia’s beautiful terrain and crystal-clear waters offer the perfect backdrop for anyone seeking a holiday away.
Hacker tip
If you’re looking to enjoy the island in some solitude, head to the Balenbouche Estate. This former home and current hotel contains large mango groves, a secluded beach and plenty of walking trails. For a small donation (around $6), you can spend the day peacefully wandering.
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Antigua and Barbuda
47%
Increase in search share
year-over-year
If you’re going to Saint John’s
Serene sandy beaches, private hideaways and a metropolitan vibe all add up to make Saint John’s a vibrant island city. Spend your holiday by the ocean, taking in expanses of sea and enjoying a local Wadadli beer. It’s also been awarded Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2021 pick for Emerging Sustainable Destination.
Hacker tip
There is so much to do outdoors on the islands, but if you want to get in some of the best panoramic views, hike up Mount Obama on Antigua (yup, it’s named after our 44th president). Just be prepared – bring your water bottle because the trail is a decent challenge.
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44%
Increase in search share
year-over-year
If you’re going to Aruba
This Caribbean favorite is seeing a recent surge in searches. Many are missing the warm island breezes, fabulous outdoor adventures and relaxing beach time for the holidays.
Hacker tip
Travelers over 15 must upload a negative PCR test between 12 and 72 hours before their departure to Aruba, or they will not be allowed to board their flight. So set a reminder on your phone and get to it!
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43%
Increase in search share
year-over-year
If you’re going to Turks and Caicos
With a calmer holiday season planned for this island escape, a trip to Turks and Caicos will afford you plenty of time alone with your thoughts (and the ocean waves).
Hacker tip
Needing some interaction but of the non-human variety? Little Water Cay is known as Iguana Island, as it’s the natural habitat of the endangered Turks and Caicos Rock Iguana. Explore several different habitats, make some new (green) friends and enjoy the natural beauty of the island.
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32%
Increase in search share
year-over-year
If you’re going to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
In before times, you would park your yacht on the white sand beaches of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and party all night long. Now, this collection of islands has become a private haven for travelers looking to get away to sunnier shores and socially distance in style.
Hacker tip
Pick a beach, any beach. These islands certainly don’t lack for beautiful stretches of sand that make you feel like your on your own private island. But if you’re looking to get out into nature, there are several trails circling the island – like the Vermont Nature Trail, which passes through a parrot reserve.
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Get the information you need to travel safely during the holidays. We’ve pulled together our top tools and resources to help you make smarter travel decisions, no matter how you decide to get around this season.
From an interactive map of the latest restrictions to resources for traveling during COVID-19, we’ve rounded up some of our most useful information for traveling safely. So that whether you’re traveling now or later, you’ll feel prepared to take on this new normal with safety top of mind.
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