Top 8 Sunny Destinations Open For American Tourists This Winter

Last Updated 1 year ago

It’s fair to say that as far as travel goes, summer didn’t really live up to its expectations, courtesy of Delta-inspired restrictions around the world. However, entry restrictions seem to be easing just in time the winter travel season, when Americans will be desperate to get in the air once more and soak up some much-needed vitamin D. With that in mind, here are some of the top sunny destinations open for American tourists this winter.

Mexico

Where better to start than the US’ neighbor and the most popular travel destination for Americans? From city breaks to beach getaways, Mexico has everything a sun-starved traveler needs. Whether heading to Cancun, Puerto Vallarta or Los Cabos, travelers are guaranteed pristine beaches, deep blue seas and an unrelenting, warm sun. Most importantly, there’s no testing or quarantine for American travelers, making it a destination that’s hard to turn down.

Jamaica

Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, Jamaica has long been a popular haunt for American travelers – and a few extra hoops to jump through shouldn’t change that. In order to enter Jamaica and experience island life to the fullest, travelers will need a Travel Authorisation form and proof of a negative PCR or antigen test taken within the last three days. Once you have those, it’s a matter of boarding your flight and taking in the culture of downtown Kingston or heading straight to the beach in one of the countries pre-approved destinations – with no quarantine required.

Greece

Few can deny they have daydreamed of being in Greece, staring out into the deep blue Mediterranean amidst a backdrop of bright white buildings in the hills, particularly during winter’s darkest nights. Fortunately, due to their relaxed entrance requirements, it’s a distinct possibility for all American travelers. Those with a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of travel, proof of infection within the past 2-9 months, or proof they’ve been fully vaccinated can enter without needing to quarantine, leaving you to explore its picturesque islands.

Dominican Republic

Perhaps the very definition of the perfect winter getaway, the Dominican Republic offers beach after beach of unspoiled coastline, adventure and nature at its finest – and the only ice in sight with be in your drink. From the breathtaking beaches of Punta Cana to the backstreets of Santa Domingo, there’s something for everyone in the Dominican Republic – and, to top it off, there’s no testing or quarantine on arrival required this winter for American travelers.

Costa Rica

For such a small country, Costa Rica has a lot to offer. Not only will it provide the perfect amounts of sunlight and heat for those escaping an American winter, but it’s also home to 5% of the world’s biodiversity, giving travelers the chance to be at one with nature. Factor in the secluded beaches, dense jungles and the fact that there’s no testing or quarantine for Americans this year, and it becomes one of the must-visit destinations this winter travel season.

Mauritius

For those wanting to go a little further away this winter, Mauritius is well-worth the longer flight time. The East African island is paradise on Earth, offering the types of turquoise seas and white, sandy beaches that are usually only reserved for postcards. The country has fully reopened for the first time in 18 months, and is accessible for both vaccinated and unvaccinated Americans. Vaccinated travelers will need to provide evidence of vaccination, along with a PCR test taken in the last three days, whilst unvaccinated travelers will need to quarantine for 14 days. Both groups will need Covid-19 health insurance, and to fill out a passenger locator form and a health self-declaration form. A lot of admin, but anyone who has ever been will tell you it’s worth the extra effort.

Brazil

The land of samba, soccer and street parties, Brazil is perfect for travelers looking to do a little more than just soak up the rays – though it’s got more than enough beaches to do just that. The hot season starts in December, so winter travelers can rest assured they can leave their hats and scarves at home. Entry is easy for both vaccinated and unvaccinated Americans too, with just a negative PCR test performed within 72 hours, and a traveler’s health declaration form needed – and no quarantine.

Colombia

Whether you’re visiting the colorful city of Cartegna, soaking up the culture in Medellin or wandering the history-rich streets of Bogota, there’s a reason why Colombia is growing in popularity with American travelers. And, with its lack of testing or quarantine for American travelers, it could be set to grow even more popular in the coming months. Aside from sprawling cities, Colombia is also home to some of the continent’s best beaches, along with plenty of mountains and jungles for the adventure types to explore.