What’s on your travel bucket list? If you’re like most people, the more you travel, the more places you want to add to your bucket list. But unfortunately for us travel lovers, we have been forced to stow away our bucket lists for the past two years. That is, until now – as many countries are slowly starting to open up their borders to tourism this year. It’s time start traveling again. Here are 15 bucket-list destinations that don’t have too many restrictions for tourists.
While the U.S. omicron surge is subsiding, ever-changing testing and vaccination requirements for international travel continue to make it challenging for Americans to figure out what’s required for entry into specific countries. The European Council, for example, recommended in late February that its member countries open more broadly to travelers from outside the EU, but individual countries are setting specific dates for easing their restrictions, with Italy dropping its pre-travel test requirement for fully vaccinated travelers on March 1 and Iceland dropping all COVID-19 entry requirements for all travelers on Feb. 25.
Here are 15 bucket-list destinations that are opening to international tourism starting spring 2023. Of course, travel requirements constantly change so make sure to check the governmental websites (linked below) that will give you the most up-to-date information.
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1. Bali
Get ready, because after two years my favorite bucket-list destination, Bali is finally open to tourism!
In Bali you’ll find beaches, volcanoes, Komodo dragons and jungles sheltering elephants, orangutans and tigers. Basically, it’s paradise. It’s likely you’ve seen an image of Bali on social media at least once in the past seven days, as it’s such a popular bucket-list destination in recent times. Along with Thailand, it is also considered a hub for nomads because of its affordable prices. You can live comfortably in Bali for under $1,000 per month.
Requirements (as of January 2023)
Make sure to check the following websites for up-to-date information regarding travel to Bali:
US Embassy | Indonesia consulate statement | Indonesia.travel | CDC advisory
Click here to find to check affordable flights to Bali on Expedia
Click here to see hotel nightly rates in Bali
Affordable Hotels To Stay At
Adiwana Resort Jembawan
$117 per night
Natya Resort Ubud
$179 per night
Bliss Ubud Spa Resort
$49 per night
More posts if you need some travel inspo:
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15 Best Destinations for Solo Female Travelers
Erawan National Park, Erawan Falls, Thailand
2. Thailand
A trip through Southeast Asia is a must for any traveler, especially so for foodies who love juicy and exotic street foods. While you could spend weeks in each of these countries, a trip to Thailand is an exciting and eye-opening experience – known for its lush scenery, cultural experiences, and delicious food. Have a little extra time to spare? Add Cambodia to the mix and include a visit to Angkor Wat.
Requirements (as of January 2023)
Make sure to check the following websites for up-to-date information regarding travel to Thailand:
US Embassy | Royal Thai Embassy | Certificate of entry | CDC advisory
Click here to find to check affordable flights to Thailand on Expedia
Click here to see hotel nightly rates in Thailand
Affordable Hotels To Stay At
The Hive Hotel
$39 per night
Kongkarn Resort and Farmstay
$39 per night
Papillon Bungalows
$35 per night
3. Italy
Italy is all the rage these days, it’s literally a country made for bucket lists. From history to culture, and an incredible cuisine known the world over, Italy has a lot to offer.
Are you a lover of mountains? Head to the Dolomites. Love the beach? Head down south to Cinque Terre. There literally is nothing prettier than this area of centuries-old seaside villages on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline. There’s a reason stores in Cinque Terre (a.k.a. “Five Towns”) sell so many postcards — it’s insanely gorgeous. The northwestern region of Italy embodies the type of beauty that makes visitors gasp when they first catch sight of it. Lover of wines and food? Head over to Tuscany. The options are endless for any kind of traveler.
Requirements (as of January 2023)
Italy now requires a ‘super green pass’ to enter hotels, bars, restaurants, cafes, use public transport and the majority of indoor venues. This super green pass is only available to people who are fully vaccinated, unlike previously when proof of a negative test was sufficient. Italian citizens and residents can obtain green passes in many ways, but for visitors, a vaccination certificate from your home country will be accepted in its place.
Click here to find to check affordable flights to Italy on Expedia
Click here to see hotel nightly rates in Italy
Make sure to check the following websites for up-to-date information regarding travel to Italy:
US Embassy | Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation | Italy’s rules for Americans | Entry form | Digital passenger locator form | CDC advisory
Affordable Hotels To Stay At
Al Segnavento – Fiori&Frutt
Nightly Rate $176
Agriturismo Le Cascatelle
Nightly Rate: $138
Villa Di Sotto
Nightly Rate: $179
4. Iceland
Catching a glimpse of the elusive northern lights is possible in several destinations close to the Arctic Circle, and one of the best places to see the lights is in Iceland. There are even hotels where you can see the phenomenon from your bed, in addition to great, wintry scenery. (The lights are best viewed from late fall through early spring.)
Requirements (as of January 2023)
As of 25 February, Iceland has dropped all domestic and border restrictions. This means that no restrictions will be enforced at the border and all passengers will be able to enter Iceland whether they are vaccinated or not.
Make sure to check the following websites for up-to-date information regarding travel to Iceland:
US Embassy | Iceland travel rules | Iceland travel registration | CDC advisory
Click here to find to check affordable flights to Iceland on Expedia
Click here to see hotel nightly rates in Iceland
Affordable Hotels To Stay At
UMI Hotel
From $270 per night
Hótel Dyrhólaey
From $140 per night
Arnarstapi Hotel
From $170 per night
5. France
Home to culture, countryside, historic architecture and mouth-watering food, France is a country that won’t disappoint. France is a country that offers visitors incredible diversity. It is loved by so many and is one of the most visited countries in the world. Europe’s most revered city of love, Paris has so much more to offer than its iconic Eiffel Tower. You’ll find some of the world’s best stores selling clothes so fashionable they haven’t yet hit the North American market. The restaurants serve food so divine, you’ll crave seconds (and sometimes thirds).
Requirements (as of January 2023)
Make sure to check the following websites for up-to-date information regarding travel to France:
US Embassy | French Ministry of Foreign Affairs | CDC advisory
- France lifts COVID passport requirement for access to most venues and events from 14 March
- Connected to the EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC), which allows restriction-free travel across all EU and EEA countries following proof of vaccination and a negative COVID test.
- Non-vaccinated visitors from the EU need to present a negative test taken 24 hours before travel. Unvaccinated visitors from countries on France’s ‘orange list’ will still need to give a compelling reason to travel to the country.
Click here to find to check affordable flights to France on Expedia
Click here to see hotel nightly rates in France
Affordable Hotels To Stay At
Hotel Brin d’Azur – Saint Tropez
From $181 per night
Le Mouillage
From $220 per night
Art Hotel
From $150 per night
6. Greece
Are we shocked that Greece made it onto this list of bucket-list destinations? No. No we aren’t. Surrounded by azure waters, this greece is the perfect vacation destination for those who dream of lazing on the beach between dips in the balmy ocean. Greece is also a historical and cultural land that can charm even the most jaded traveler. The museums are some of the most incredible in the world. You don’t even need to go indoors to experience the culture and history. You can simply stroll through the cobblestone streets.
With over a hundred islands to explore, you’ll be hard-pressed to get bored exploring this country and its many islands.
Requirements (as of January 2023)
Make sure to check the following websites for up-to-date information regarding travel to Greece:
US Embassy | Ministry of Tourism | CDC advisory
- Greece is scrapping Passenger Locator Forms from 15 March.
- Connected to the EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC), which allows restriction-free travel across all EU and EEA countries following proof of vaccination and a negative COVID test.
- From 7 February fully vaccinated travellers no longer need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test to enter Greece.
- Unvaccinated travellers will still require a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before arrival or a rapid antigen test taken within 24 hours.
Click here to find to check affordable flights to Greece on Expedia
Click here to see hotel nightly rates in Greece
Affordable Hotels To Stay At
Aeolos Resort
From $114 per night
Peninsula Resort & Spa
From $141 per night
Kalestesia Suites
From $155 per night
More posts if you need some travel inspo:
The 15 Most Beautiful Hotels in the World
The World’s 10 Most Underrated Travel Destinations
What’s In My Camera Bag?
The Best Travel Gifts To Get Your Jet-Setting Friend This Holiday Season
7. Africa
I’ve never met a person who hasn’t added a trip to Africa or a safari excursion to the top of their “dream bucket-list vacations”… Guaranteed to be a trip of a lifetime, it’s no wonder so many people crave to experience Africa at least once. African safaris are thrilling, awe-inspiring, and picturesque, especially when conducted in one of the world’s most phenomenal landscapes.
There is nothing more magical than an African Safari. Whether you’re hoping to catch sight of the “Big Five” (lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos) in Kenya, bounce along in a jeep through Kruger National Park, or soar through the air in a hot air balloon over the Serengeti National Park, an African safari won’t disappoint. Have you ever heard the saying, “I left my heart in Africa.”
Don’t forget to add Cape Town to your list – it’s an absolute dream: endless natural beauty with clifftop views, pastel pink neighborhoods, and turquoise waters. Cairo is also a must – one of the most ancient cities in the world. Sitting on the Nile river with wonderful museums, vibrant culture and friendly locals, it makes for a great holiday
Requirements (as of January 2023)
Make sure to check the following websites for up-to-date information regarding travel to Africa:
• Kenya: US Embassy | Health form | Trusted Travel initiative | QR code | CDC advisory
• Seychelles: US Embassy | Seychelles Travel Advisory Updates | Travel authorization | CDC advisory
• South Africa: US Embassy | South African government | CDC advisory
• Tanzania: US Embassy | Health surveillance form | CDC advisory
• Zambia: US Embassy | CDC advisory
Click here to find to check affordable flights to Africa on Expedia
Click here to see hotel nightly rates in Africa
Affordable Hotels To Stay At
Mara River Camp
From $239 per night
Ikwanitsha Lodge
From $134 per night
8. India
India is an absolutely fascinating conglomeration of cultures, colors, and flavors. It can be overwhelming to the inexperienced traveler and is one of those countries that you will either love or hate. It’s one of the biggest and most diverse countries in the world, multifaceted and constantly in flux. There are chaotic traffic-loaded cities with modern skyscrapers alongside impoverished slums; with lavish ancient palaces sporadically located next to ethnic tribal areas where people continue to live the way their ancestors did.
Make sure to visit Jaipur – known as the ‘Pink City’ for its pale terracotta buildings. This was originally done to impress the visiting Prince Albert during his 1876 tour of India by order of the Maharaja (Sawai Ram Singh). Even today, it’s illegal to paint buildings any other color.
Requirements (as of January 2023)
Make sure to check the following websites for up-to-date information regarding travel to India:
US Embassy | India health declaration | New Delhi Airport Covid information | CDC advisory
Click here to find to check affordable flights to India on Expedia
Click here to see hotel nightly rates in India
Affordable Hotels To Stay At
Taj Lake Palace Udaipur
From $600 per night
The Leela Palace Chennai
From $130 per night
Taj Aravali Resort & Spa Udaipur
From $215 per night
9. French Polynesia
Known for being the honeymoon destination of the world – French Polynesia is paradise on earth.
A trip to Tahiti or Bora Bora (the most famous islands) is something you’ll never forget. French Polynesia has 118 islands stretching across a chunk of the South Pacific Ocean the size of Western Europe.
One of the top bucket-list travel destinations, Bora Bora sets the bar high for an ideal beach vacation. A utopia set in the heart of French Polynesia, this fabulous archipelago is all turquoise waters; soft white sand; and lush, volcanic peaks. With lagoons to explore, coral reefs to snorkel and rain forests to hike, there’s no shortage of things to do in this tropical wonderland. Peppered with resorts featuring private huts standing on stilts above the water, visitors are rewarded with an unforgettable and utterly relaxing vacation.
Slightly livelier than its laid-back neighbor, Bora Bora, Tahiti offers travelers the same beautiful azure lagoons, lush mountainous landscapes, and lively coral reefs, with a little more excitement thrown in.
Requirements (as of January 2023)
Make sure to check the following websites for up-to-date information regarding travel to French Polynesia:
US Embassy | Islands of Tahiti | FAQ document | Online ETIS form | CDC advisory
Click here to find to check affordable flights to French Polynesia on Expedia
Click here to see hotel nightly rates in French Polynesia
Affordable Hotels To Stay At
Te Moana Tahiti Resort
From $310 per night
InterContinental Tahiti Resort
From $320 per night
Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa
From $650 per night
10. Ireland
Ireland is a popular destination on many travelers’ wish lists, for a good reason. This country is a joy to explore, with stunning landscapes. friendly and welcoming people, and ancient historical sites. Don’t let the small size fool you… there is a lot to see and do.
Ireland is one of the best places to catch a glimpse of the northern lights. While you can likely see them at any point of the year, the most spectacular shows happen between mid-October and early April. Witnessing the aurora borealis is one of life’s greatest pleasures. Whether you catch sight of a delicate green glow or are privy to vivacious crimson lines streaking across the horizon, this wonderful spectacle is breathtaking and unforgettable. To see them, though, you’ll need to be patient. The northern lights are as unpredictable as the weather, so you’ll have to budget in a few days to make your viewing attempt.
Requirements (as of January 2023)
- Connected to the EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC), which allows restriction-free travel across all EU and EEA countries following proof of vaccination and a negative COVID test.
- Travellers who plan to enter Ireland are no longer subject to entry requirements after the authorities decided to abolish all the restrictions imposed due to the COVID-19.
- Only people who are fully vaccinated, or who have proof of recovery from COVID-19 in the past six months, will be able to enjoy indoor hospitality.
Make sure to check the following websites for up-to-date information regarding travel to Iceland:
US Embassy | Iceland travel rules | Iceland travel registration | CDC advisory
Click here to find to check affordable flights to Ireland on Expedia
Click here to see hotel nightly rates in Ireland
Affordable Hotels To Stay At
Kilkea Castle
From $175 per night
Lough Eske Castle
From $344 per night
Ice House Hotel
From $265 per night
11. Morocco
Spanning the whole northwest corner of Africa, Morocco is huge. Across its landscape of mountains, desert, lush plains, and unique cities, the choices for the best places to visit here are hard to narrow down. But unless you have endless vacation time, you have to. With some research and choosing the right route, it is possible to see a lot of the country in one week.
The most popular city Marrakesh – is an ancient walled city home to mosques, palaces and lush gardens. It’s known as The Red City thanks to the color of the brick walls surrounding the city.
Restrictions & requirements may change at any moment.
Make sure to check the following websites for up-to-date information regarding travel to Morocco:
US Embassy | Visit Morocco | CDC advisory
Proof of vaccination & negative test is required before departure.
Click here to find to check affordable flights to Morocco on Expedia
Click here to see hotel nightly rates in Morocco
Affordable Hotels To Stay At
Dar Diaf
From $161 per night
Riad Jemaa El Fna & Spa
From $151 per night
Azzouna13
From $104 per night
12. Cuba
From visiting the colorful capital of Havana, to relaxing on Varadero’s pristine beaches, and exploring quirky Trinidad, Cuba is definitely a country like no other.
It’s somewhere you can spend your days drinking daiquiris, spotting dolphins, hiking through rainforests, visiting historic museums or salsa dancing with the locals. There really is something for everyone.
Requirements (as of January 2023)
Make sure to check the following websites for up-to-date information regarding travel to Cuba:
Cuba Travel | Cuba Travel (UK)
Click here to find to check affordable flights to Cuba on Expedia
Click here to see hotel nightly rates in Cuba
Gran Hotel Manzana
Hotel Roc Arenas Doradas
Melia Buenavista
13. Turkey
Is it Asia or Europe? Turkey is both – the best of two continents in just one country.
At first, it may appear that Turkey mostly suits cultural travelers. After all, it sits on the cusp of both Europe and Asia, it’s no wonder that the Turkish heritage is a fascinating fusion of various cultures. But at closer inspection, Turkey has so much to offer for every kind of traveler. Adventure seekers, foodies, backpackers, families, fantasy landscape chasers, pilgrims, and party travelers – they all will love Turkey for the same as well as different reasons.
I’ve been living in Turkey for the past two years and I’ve really enjoyed my time here – the people are incredibly warm and inviting, the food here is some of the best in the world, and I guarantee that you will not ever be able to find a city in the world that comes anything close in diversity than that of the city of Istanbul.
Requirements (as of January 2023)
- Most travellers to Turkey aged 12 years and above must have proof of a negative PCR test result within 72 hours of arrival, an antigen test within 48 hours, or be fully jabbed.
- All arrivals will be subject to a medical check for symptoms of COVID, including temperature checks, and may be asked to take random PCR testing on arrival.
- Public and hospitality services are open.
- Masks are required inside but you are not required to wear them outside.
Make sure to check the following websites for up-to-date information regarding travel to Turkey:
US Embassy | Form for entry | CDC advisory
Click here to find to check affordable flights to Turkey on Expedia
Click here to see hotel nightly rates in Turkey
Notable Hotels To Stay At
Caresse Resort & Spa in Bodrum
Mandarin Oriental in Bodrum
The Bodrum EDITION
14. Spain
There’s just something about Spain. Everything about the country is extremely inviting for travelers looking for new experiences, new foods, and to see things they’ve never seen before. With a culture all its own and a remarkable blend of histories, it can seem like no two places in Spain are quite the same.
Requirements (as of January 2023)
- Connected to the EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC), which allows restriction-free travel across all EU and EEA countries following proof of vaccination and a negative COVID test.Antigen tests are now accepted instead of PCRs for travellers from countries on the list of risk zones – including France and Germany – while no tests are required for low-incidence areas.
- If your last vaccination was more than 270 days ago you will also need a booster to enter the country or you will be considered unvaccinated.
Make sure to check the following websites for up-to-date information regarding travel to Spain:
US Embassy | Ministry of Health | Spain Travel Health portal | Spain travel FAQs | CDC advisory
Click here to find to check affordable flights to Spain on Expedia
Click here to see hotel nightly rates in Spain
Hotels To Stay At
Royal Hideaway Corales Suites
From £240 per night
Predi Son Jaumell Hotel Rural
From £161 per night
Santa Catalina, a Royal Hideaway Hotel
From £122 per night
15. Canada
Did you know that Canada has around 2,000,000 lakes, which is why this country is perfect for people fond of bodies of water. Love nature? Canada was made for you. Canada is home to lush rainforests, rocky mountains, fjords, crystalline glaciers, and sweeping prairies.
But what makes Canada special is its people. It’s a place that embraces its diversity and that encourages people to be friendly, caring, and polite. I mean, in all my years of travel, Canadians have always been by far – the kindest.
Requirements (as of January 2023)
Make sure to check the following websites for up-to-date information regarding travel to Spain:
US Embassy | Canada Services Border Agency | CDC advisory
Click here to find to check affordable flights to Canada on Expedia
Click here to see hotel nightly rates in Canada
Affordable Hotels To Stay At
The Malcolm Hotel
From $238 per night
Nita Lake Lodge
From $157 per night
Sundial Hotel
From $327 per night
Heard of any more bucket-list destinations that are easy to travel to in 2023? Comment down below!
