This may be entirely too optimistic, but hopefully 2022 is a year that the travel industry can get back to a bit of normality. Whilst ‘the world is your oyster’ may not scream loud and true just yet, there are some countries that have opened their doors to tourism. I’ve done my best to research entry requirements and COVID-19 restrictions for each one at the time of writing (January, 2022). However, please double check these yourself as well as visa requirements for each country before traveling. So let’s get into the top 22 destinations to visit in 2022, shall we?
1. Dubai, UAE
You’ve probably seen a lot of travel influencers and celebrities hit up Dubai recently, and for good reason. A beautiful city filled with Insta-worthy resorts, beaches, restaurants and bars is also currently hosting the 2020 World Expo. The event runs for 182 consecutive days and was postponed due to COVID-19. It officially started on the 1st of October 2021 and will run until the 31st of March 2022.
Expo 2020‘s theme is ‘Connecting Minds and Creating the Future’ and focuses on innovation, sustainability and technology. Enjoy foods from around the world, watch parades, live shows, light installations and admire art & architecture throughout.
United Arab Emirates – COVID-19 entry requirements:
Citizens of most countries can visit the UAE for tourism if they are fully vaccinated with one of the WHO-approved COVID-19 vaccines. A printed negative result of a COVID‑19 RT PCR test done no more than 72 hours before departure is also required. Visitors from some countries may also need to take a rapid PCR test at the airport on arrival.
If a traveler has been in one of a list of countries in the preceding 14 days, they are not permitted to enter.
Unvaccinated travellers may enter the UAE as well, with mostly the same requirements as vaccinated travellers.
Be aware that Abu Dhabi and Dubai have different rules for testing and quarantine so if you are flying into Abu Dhabi, please check this.
2. Kaunas, Lithuania
A small, beautiful Baltic country that often gets overlooked by backpackers will have its chance to shine this year. The city of Kaunas is one of three European Capitals of Culture for 2022 which will showcase its old but modern culture. With old architecture, traditions and food alongside its new arts and technology culture thanks to the city’s massive student population.
While you’re in Lithuania there you can check out the capital of Vilnius and the Trakai Castle & National Park (pictured above). Or explore the sand dunes of the Curonian Spit or learn about their fascinating history at the Rumsiskes Open-Air Museum.
Lithuania – COVID-19 entry requirements:
Both vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers may enter Lithuania, but rules regarding testing and isolation will depend on which country you are traveling from. Some countries are deemed safe (green) and others are high risk (red) with more restrictions.
Check where you stand here.
3. Cuba
Would you like to travel back in time to a period far far before the word Corona was even associated with a beer let alone a pandemic-level virus? Cuba is for you! Still one of my favourite countries I’ve ever been to (see the map of 73 countries I have been to so far) and one I can’t wait to revisit.
Unfortunately, the Caribbean countries have been some of the hardest hit in terms of loss in tourism. Let’s hope it picks up for them in 2022.
Cuba – COVID-19 entry requirements:
Cuba recently changed their requirements and will no longer allow unvaccinated travellers to enter the country. You will need your proof of vaccination as well as a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure. Proof of health insurance will also be required as well as filling in a health ‘D’Viajeros’ form before departure.
4. Burgundy, France
Dijon, France will be the International City of Gastronomy and Wine in 2022 and it won’t take long to see why this region was chosen. Burgundy is full of vineyards and the area has mastered the thousand-year-old tradition of pairing culinary meals with the perfect wine.
Festivities will begin in the spring, with the date of commencement set to the 6th of May 2022.
Other attractions in the region include the Château de Cormatin, Hospices de Beaune, Abbaye de Fontenay. Or follow the beautiful Wine Trails to explore the five wine regions of the area.
France – COVID-19 entry requirements:
Anyone over the age of 12 entering France must have a COVID-19 vaccination certificate or certificate of recovery from COVID-19 between 11 days to six months old. Travellers coming from outside the EU (including some other European countries) will also need to produce a negative PCR or antigen test within 24-48 hours of departure (depending on departure country).
5. Egypt
Almost 100 years ago, on the 26th of November 1922, the hidden Tomb of Tutankhamun was discovered by British Egyptologist Howard Carter. To this day, it is still the most significant and best-preserved pharaonic tomb ever to be found in the Valley of the Kings.
Tutankhamun’s entire collection will be showcased in the world’s largest archaeological museum – the Grand Egyptian Museum – anticipated to open in November 2022. One of the oldest examples of an ancient vessel, the Khufu ship, will also be there. Khufu was sealed into a pit at the foot of The Great Pyramid of Giza in around 2500 BC.
Egypt – COVID-19 entry requirements:
Travellers require a negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate taken within 96 hours prior to departure or a vaccination certificate recognised by Egyptian authorities. PCR tests must have an accredited laboratory stamp and/or QR code displayed. Children under the age of six are exempt.
Depending on where you arrive from, you may also be required to undertake an additional COVID-19 rapid test at Cairo International Airport.
6. Gabon
Gabon – a small country on the African Atlantic coast – is one of the most ecologically friendly countries in the world. Over 10% of its land is completely protected which is vital considering Gabon hosts part of the worlds second largest rainforest – the Congo Basin. Around 70% of the country is heavily forested with 13 national parks, nine marine parks, and 11 aquatic reserves.
Gabon’s national parks celebrate their 20th anniversaries in 2022. Last year they launched the African Ecotourism safari project to encourage more visitors to the area. Loango National Park is one of the last truly wild coastal landscapes on the planet. It’s one of the only places where animals like elephants, hippos and gorillas have access to the sea.
African Conservation Development Group are set to open Gabon’s first luxury safari lodge this year as well so it’s a big year for the tiny nation.
Gabon – COVID-19 entry requirements:
Visitors travelling to Gabon must present a valid negative PCR test (printed) no older than 3 days OR hold a valid COVID-19 vaccination certificate.
You will need to fill out and print your Covid-19 registration form before arriving at Libreville airport.
On arrival, all passengers must take a compulsory test for COVID-19 at Libreville Airport.
Unvaccinated travellers must quarantine for up to five days or until they receive their negative result. They must stay in one of the selected hotels at the visitors expense. Reservations must be made here.
Vaccinated passengers are allowed to proceed out of the airport without observing a quarantine.
7. Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan celebrated 30 years since its independence from the Soviet Union in 2021, inspiring many initiatives to encourage more tourism.
Uzbekistan started their tourism campaign ‘Uzkekistan. Safe Travel GUARANTEED‘ to promote it as one of the safest tourist destinations. Check out the adorable promo video they made. I have to say, I can’t wait to visit this country!
Find colourful mosques & architecture in the former capital of Samarkand or in historical cities of Bukhara and Khiva. Head to Lake Aral – what used to be the largest fresh water lake in the world but is now a desolate desert. Or head into the mountains at Ugam-Chatkal National Park.
Uzbekistan – COVID-19 entry requirements:
Due to the Omicron variant risk, travellers from these countries must undergo a mandatory 10-days quarantine at home or in a hotel at their own expense:
– Australia
– Austria
– Belgium
– Great Britain
– Germany
– Denmark
– Egypt
– Israel
– Italy
– Netherlands
– Czech Republic
Please check for up-to-date information, as this may be temporary.
Arriving passengers must have a negative PCR test taken no later than 72 hours before departure.
8. Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
Walt Disney World Resort opened it’s doors on the 1st of October 1971, so it turned 50 in 2021! But don’t worry about missing the festivities as they plan to celebrate for 18 months! There are new themed rides, restaurants and fountain, light & firework shows.
Voyages on the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser will also begin in March 2022.
United States – COVID-19 entry requirements:
To enter the USA, anyone over the 18 must have proof of full vaccination against COVID-19. Passengers over the age of two must have a negative viral test taken within one day of travel.
9. Almere, Netherlands
The Netherlands are famous for their beautiful tulip fields spread all across the country, but in 2022 they’re going one better. The Floriade Expo 2022 is only held once every 10 years and this year it will be held in Almere, a town close to Amsterdam.
The international horticulture exhibition will run from the 14th of April until the 9th of October. Although, if you want to coincide your visit with prime tulip viewing, then make sure to take a trip to Lisse between April and May.
Netherlands – COVID-19 entry requirements:
There is currently an EU travel ban for people traveling from a high risk country, however if you are fully vaccinated you are exempt from this ban.
People aged 12 and over travelling from outside the EU/Schengen area must also show a negative COVID-19 test result. This is not required for people travelling from within the EU/Schengen area who can show proof of vaccination or proof of recovery (a Digital COVID Certificate).
10. New Orleans, USA
Rattled by Hurricane Ida in 2021, this lively city was brought to its knees by yet another natural disaster. Many events will be returning with a vengeance in 2022 including the famous Mardi Gras New Orleans which is to be held on the 1st of March.
Other events to look forward to in the jazz capital are:
- New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival (29th April – 8th May)
- Essence Festival of Culture (30th June – 3rd July)
- Bayou Bacchanal (4th – 5th November)
United States – COVID-19 entry requirements:
Entry to the USA for anyone over the 18 requires proof of full vaccination against COVID-19. Passengers over the age of two must have a negative viral test taken within one day of travel.
11. Jamaica
Jamaica celebrates 60 years since it’s independence in 2022 and the country will be holding celebrations year round. There’s no celebration quite as big as the Jamaica Carnival (Bacchanal) which is similar to the Carnival celebrations in Brazil. Running from the 21st to 26th of April.
Aiming to revamp its tourism industry, this Caribbean country recently introduced the Resilient Corridors, encouraging safe tourism practices.
Visitors may stay at any COVID-19 compliant accommodation listed here or a private residence. They may enjoy all approved attractions, restaurants and duty free shopping malls.
Jamaica – COVID-19 entry requirements:
A travel authorization is required for all travellers to Jamaica. Travellers aged 12 years and over are required to have either a negative Antigen or a negative molecular (PCR, RNA or NAA) test result from an accredited lab. Test sample must be provided within 3 days of travel.
Getting a PCR test is recommended over the other methods. Vaccinated travellers that present a negative PCR test will be allowed to move outside the Corridor. Presenting an antigen test will mean you have to get a negative PCR test once in the country to be able to move freely.
12. Birmingham, UK
Did you know that Birmingham is the second largest city in the UK? If I was asked that question a few years ago I would have sworn that Manchester or Edinburgh had to be it. In 2022, the almost-forgotten-about city is ready to be put on the map.
Birmingham will host the 2022 Commonwealth Games so expect an ambient atmosphere across the city with sports stars and spectators. There’s sure to be a lot of fun events and activities on for the occasion.
United Kingdom – COVID-19 entry requirements:
Fully vaccinated travellers can enter the UK, but before you travel you need to pre-book and pay for a COVID-19 test. Test needs to be taken in the first two days of arriving in the UK. If it is positive, you then have to self-isolate.
You will also need to complete and submit a passenger locator form within 48 hours before arrival.
Unvaccinated travellers will need a negative PCR test result taken up to 2 days before boarding their flight and will need to self-quarantine for 10 days. Pre-paid COVID-19 PCR tests are to be pre-booked on day 2 and day 8. Proof of natural immunity will not be accepted as an alternative to proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test.
13. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka was becoming quite the backpackers paradise pre-COVID. Since relaxing border restrictions in the last few months, they have seen another boom in tourism. In fact, in the first few weeks of 2022, Sri Lanka hit record numbers of visitors! Sri Lanka is affordable, has a lot of cultural opportunities, beautiful scenery and a fun vibe.
Also trips to Sri Lanka are currently on sale with up to 40% off tours across Asia!
Sri Lanka – COVID-19 entry requirements:
Fully vaccinated travellers are able to enter with a negative PCR test within 72 hours before departure.
Unvaccinated travellers need to pay for the mandatory COVID-19 Insurance, PCR tests and tourism reference number required for the visa. A ‘Tourism Bio Bubble’ with all facilities of the hotels is available for the first 7 nights/8 days. You may also visit approved tourist sites when staying there. More info can be found here.
All travellers need to fill in a health declaration form and for more information, check their travel website.
14. Bahamas
Tropical paradise has just got more fun! Baha Mar resort have opened a brand new luxury waterpark called Baha Bay. The resort, on the main island of Nassau is less than half an hour from the popular Aquaventure water park at Atlantic Bahamas meaning there’s now double the fun and great for families!
For travellers who aren’t too keen on slides and rides, there are plenty of island hopping adventures to be had. I highly recommend a trip to Exuma to swim with sharks (small ones that won’t eat you) and pigs! Yes, you read that correctly. A unique island in the Big Major Cay is home to around 20 pigs and piglets who love to swim with their guests.
Bahamas – COVID-19 entry requirements:
Both vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers can visit the Bahamas with the same testing requirements. Any visitors travelling to The Bahamas are required to apply for a Bahamas Travel Health Visa and will need to upload their negative COVID-19 test results (either rapid or PCR) taken no more than 72 hours before departure.
There will be a visa fee when applying which will include a mandatory COVID-19 health insurance for the duration of your stay. Cost will depend on your length of stay and vaccination status.
15. Ireland
Another milestone comes in 2022 when the Emerald Isle celebrates 100 years since the Irish Free State Constitution Act was passed.
With incredible places such as the Cliffs of Moher, the scenic Ring of Kerry and the Giants Causeway in Northern Ireland, there is a lot of natural beauty. Or check out the cool cities of Dublin, Belfast, Cork or Galway.
Ireland – COVID-19 entry requirements:
To enter Ireland, everyone needs to fill out an online COVID-19 Passenger Locator Form as well as required to have one of the following:
– Proof of full vaccination (either an EU digital certificate or similar from your country of residence)
– Evidence that you have recently recovered from COVID-19
– Proof of a negative RT-PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before your arrival
For entry into Northern Ireland: If you are fully vaccinated, you will only need to pre-book and pay for a PCR or lateral flow device (LPD) test to be taken on or before day 2 after arrival.
Unvaccinated travellers will need to show proof of a negative PCR or LFD test within 48 hours or departure. Day two and eight PCR post-arrival tests also need to be pre-booked and paid for.
Every passenger arriving into the UK needs to fill out a passenger locator form within 48 hours of arrival.
16. Daintree Rainforest, Australia
In an historic move, the world’s oldest rainforest has been handed-back (well, partially) to it’s traditional Aboriginal owners. The Queensland state government will manage the national park alongside the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people. Such a big win for a country that is constantly criticised for its lack of promotion of the Indigenous Australians culture and acknowledgement of their land rights.
Close to the Daintree you will find Cairns and Port Douglas, both great gateways to the Great Barrier Reef, other national parks and and islands such as Fitzroy Island.
Australia – COVID-19 entry requirements:
Currently, Australia has banned the entry of any visitors except for citizens, permanent residents and visa holders. Not including the Working Holiday Visa. Immediate family members of any of those groups may apply for a travel exemption to enter.
Keep an eye on this website for travel updates as this all may change.
17. Qatar
Can you believe it’s time for another World Cup? I feel like those four years flew by! Qatar are thrilled about the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the capital of Doha is sure to put on some amazing events. The tournament runs from the 21st of November until the 18th December. Most likely to avoid the sweltering summer months of the Middle Eastern nation.
Tickets just went on sale in the last week and there has already been requests for over 1.2 million tickets. Ticket applications need to be submitted by the 8th of February at 13:00 Doha time for the first sales period and then successful applicants will be chosen at random.
Qatar – COVID-19 entry requirements:
Fully vaccinated visitors to Qatar from a ‘green list’ country only need to take a negative PCR test within 72 hours of departure.
Visitors who are not fully vaccinated will be required to take a pre-departure PCR test, quarantine for seven days in a hotel and then take a negative rapid antigen test (RAT) on day seven.
Fully vaccinated travellers from ‘red list’ countries need to quarantine for two days. On day two they may leave hotel quarantine after they produce a negative RAT test.
See the green, red and exceptional red lists or check this site for updates.
18. Kefalonia, Greece
Greece isn’t the most crazy choice, being a Mediterranean paradise most visiting Europe in the summer flock to. But there are literally thousands of islands and the most popular ones such as Santorini, Mykonos and Crete can get a little crowded and expensive.
Kefalonia still isn’t much of a secret, but it does stand apart from its neighbour islands in a lot of ways. It’s more mountainous giving hikers a great opportunity to enjoy some uphill climbs and this island swaps out the traditional white-only-buildings for villages with colourful and unique architecture. The water colour, however, is very on brand with the bright blue hues of the Greek Islands.
Nearby Lefkada is just as impressive, sort of like a mini Kefalonia, and its attached to the mainland making it easier to access!
Greece – COVID-19 entry requirements:
Currently, due to the Omicron variant, all travellers need to provide proof of a negative PCR test no later than 72 hours before departure or a RAT test within 24 hours. Usually, fully vaccinated travellers can skip this testing requirement. There are also random COVID-19 testing upon arrival and if found to be positive you must quarantine for 5 days.
You must fill out a PLR form before entering the country. Check updates to entry requirements here too.
19. Taipei, Taiwan
Voted the second best city to visit in 2022 by Lonely Planet, this up and coming destination is one for the foodies. Taipei has also been described as very progressive, yet with a lot of ancient religious traditions which gives it a unique cultural experience alongside its delicious cuisine.
Taiwan – COVID-19 entry requirements:
Currently, due to the Omicron variant, all travellers need to provide proof of a negative PCR test no later than 72 hours before departure or a RAT test within 24 hours. Usually, fully vaccinated travellers can skip this testing requirement. There are also random COVID-19 testing upon arrival and if found to be positive you must quarantine for 5 days.
All travellers must fill out a PLR form before entering the country. Check updates to entry requirements here too.
20. Cook Islands
Speaking of Lonely Planet, they also released their Top 10 Countries for 2022 and this beautiful tropical paradise was voted number one. The Cook Islands have managed to keep completely COVID-19 free over the past two years and their vaccination rates are among the highest in the world making it a very safe place to visit.
But, because of this great track record, the country may be at risk when re-opening and don’t seem overly keen to rush into it just yet. They are also quite hard to get to and you need to transit through New Zealand, which have some of the strictest border policies in the world right now. So even though Lonely Planet has given this country the number one spot, it’s definitely not going to be easy to get to in 2022.
Cook Islands – COVID-19 entry requirements:
The Cook Islands government opened up their air border on the 13th of January meaning there would be two-way quarantine free travel between the Cook Islands and New Zealand.
Because you need to travel through New Zealand, you must meet their entry requirements as well though and then spend 10 days there before your scheduled departure to the Cook Islands. Currently, NZ are not welcoming travellers but they hope to open later in the year.
To enter the Cook Islands you also need to be fully vaccinated, have completed the online COVID-19 Cook Islands Ministry of Health travel declaration information form no earlier than 96 hours before your flight. A negative PCR test result within 48 hours of departure is also required.
21. Rwanda
A new Sextantio project named The Capenne Project in Rwanda has seen traditional huts turned into beautiful, traditional stays for guests. On Lake Kivu, the huts will be available for donation stays with proceeds going back into the local community. Opening on the 21st of March 2022.
Rwanda – COVID-19 entry requirements:
Arriving passengers must quarantine for roughly 24 hours until they get their negative COVID-19 result at their own cost. You also need to arrange a test on day 3. Most hotels may also require a recent negative result before checking in so best to check if you plan to move around a bit.
A passenger locator form will also need to be filled out within 72 hours of arrival.
22. Chile
Last, but certainly not least, is the beautiful South American country of Chile. Being a skinny country passing through so many climates, Chile really has it all. From the deserts and volcanoes in the north, the sand dunes of the coast, the colourful towns like Valparaiso down to the mountainous Patagonia region.
Chile – COVID-19 entry requirements:
Chile will only allow vaccinated travellers to enter. You must validate your vaccine but this process can take up to 30 days. If your vaccination status isn’t validated you will need to undergo 7 days of hotel quarantine. Validated vaccine holders only need to quarantine until they receive a negative result after a PCR or antigen test on-arrival.
A negative PCR test within 72 hours of departure is also required. Fill in the Traveler’s Affidavit up to 48 hours before departure and make sure to organize as appropriate health insurance.
