The Ultimate Guide to the Best Places to Travel in 2020 During Coronavirus

The year 2020 will be etched in history not just for the unprecedented global events that unfolded, but for the fundamental shift in how we perceive travel. The emergence of the coronavirus pandemic transformed the tourism industry overnight, forcing travelers to rethink safety, flexibility, and the very definition of a "safe" destination. However, rather than viewing this period solely through the lens of restriction, savvy adventurers saw an opportunity to explore the world in a way that had never been possible before. Fewer crowds, lower prices, and a renewed appreciation for nature created a unique window of opportunity for those who dared to look beyond their borders.

At Alice's Adventures On Earth, we believe that travel is not just about visiting places; it is about connection, discovery, and sustainable exploration. As the world adjusted to the "new normal," certain destinations stood out for their rigorous health protocols, vast open spaces, and commitment to sustainable tourism. This comprehensive article will delve deep into the best places to travel in 2020 during coronavirus, offering detailed insights into why these locations became sanctuaries for the modern traveler. Whether you are seeking the quiet majesty of the Nordic fjords or the vibrant, socially-distanced culture of South America, this guide provides the essential intel you need to plan your journey with confidence and clarity.

The Rise of "Bleisure" and the Preference for Nature

One of the most significant trends of 2020 was the shift from urban centers to rural and natural landscapes. City breaks, once the staple of leisure travel, were replaced by requests for wide-open spaces where social distancing came naturally. This shift was not merely a reaction to health guidelines but a psychological need for space and breathing room. Travelers flocked to destinations where the density of people was low, allowing them to enjoy the thrill of exploration without the anxiety of crowded terminals or packed museums.

This trend gave rise to a new category of travel: eco-adventure tourism. By choosing destinations that prioritize environmental sustainability, travelers also inadvertently chose healthier environments. Nature has always been the best healer, and in 2020, it became the safest place to be. Countries with vast territories and low population densities, such as Iceland, New Zealand, and Canada, became prime candidates for the title of best places to travel in 2020 during coronavirus. These locations offered not just safety, but an unparalleled opportunity to disconnect from the digital noise and reconnect with the raw beauty of the planet.

Iceland: The Nordic Sanctuary of Safety and Serenity

If there is one country that embodied the spirit of safe and serene travel in 2020, it is Iceland. With a population of less than 400,000 people spread across a massive, rugged landscape, Iceland offered the perfect recipe for a stress-free vacation. The island nation was widely praised for its transparent communication regarding the virus, its high testing capabilities, and its low infection rates during the key travel months of the year.

Travelers were drawn to Iceland not just for its health credentials, but for its dramatic scenery. The Golden Circle, the Northern Lights, and the black sand beaches of Reynisfjarg remained accessible, allowing visitors to experience the country's otherworldly beauty without the usual summer crowds. The infrastructure was perfectly adapted for sustainable tourism; hotels and rental cars were easily sanitized, and the outdoor dining scene thrived, with many establishments moving entirely to private, outdoor terraces. For the adventure traveler, hiking the glacier lagoons or snorkeling between tectonic plates in the Silfra fissure provided a sense of isolation and awe that is rarely found in other parts of the world.

Moreover, Iceland's commitment to renewable energy made it a top choice for the eco-conscious traveler. Knowing that your travel footprint was minimal added an extra layer of satisfaction to the journey. The combination of safety, sustainability, and sheer aesthetic wonder cemented Iceland's place among the best places to travel in 2020 during coronavirus. It proved that a destination could be both remote and accessible, wild and well-managed.

New Zealand: The Ultimate Bubble Destination

Another standout destination in the landscape of 2020 travel was New Zealand. Known for its natural beauty and friendly culture, New Zealand implemented one of the world's most effective pandemic responses. The concept of the "trans-Tasman bubble" (allowing travel between New Zealand and Australia without quarantine) opened up a new realm of possibility for regional travelers. However, even for international visitors, the country's isolation provided a formidable barrier against the spread of the virus.

The South Island of New Zealand became a haven for hikers and road-trippers. The famous Milford Track and other Great Walks were adjusted to allow for smaller groups, ensuring that nature lovers could explore without congestion. The country's focus on adventure travel meant that activities like bungee jumping, jet boating, and skydiving could be conducted with strict hygiene protocols, making them viable options for cautious travelers. The air was clean, the people were welcoming, and the infrastructure was geared towards outdoor experiences.

New Zealand also excelled in the realm of digital nomadism. With reliable internet and stunning backdrops for video calls, it became a hub for remote workers who wanted to combine productivity with exploration. The ability to work from a cabin in Queenstown or a lodge in Rotorua, knowing that the local health system was robust, made it an attractive option for long-term stays. This flexibility was key to its reputation as one of the best places to travel in 2020 during coronavirus, as it catered to both short-term vacationers and long-term explorers alike.

Portugal: The European Gem of Safety and Culture

While Iceland and New Zealand dominated the list of remote destinations, Portugal emerged as the top choice for those seeking a European getaway in 2020. The country was lauded for its early and effective implementation of safety protocols, its mild climate, and its relatively low case numbers compared to other European nations. Lisbon and Porto remained vibrant, with outdoor cafes and terraces becoming the central hubs of social life.

The Algarve region, known for its beautiful beaches, adapted well to the new normal. Beaches were spacious enough to maintain social distance, and the local government invested in sanitizing public spaces. Portugal’s focus on sustainable tourism was evident in its promotion of lesser-known regions, such as Alentejo and the Azores, which offered a quieter, more authentic experience. The Azores, in particular, became a darling of the travel community, with direct flights from Europe and a reputation for pristine nature and clean air.

Portugal’s culinary scene also flourished. With a focus on fresh, local ingredients and outdoor dining, the country offered a taste of normalcy amidst the chaos. The warmth of the Portuguese people, combined with their efficient health systems, made it a reassuring destination for anxious travelers. It stood as a testament to the idea that even in the heart of Europe, it was possible to enjoy culture, history, and cuisine safely. This balance of accessibility and safety solidified Portugal's spot among the best places to travel in 2020 during coronavirus.

Costa Rica: Eco-Tourism Leading the Way

In Central America, Costa Rica continued to prove why it is a leader in eco-tourism. Known as the "Pura Vida" country, Costa Rica embraced the slow-living philosophy perfectly suited for a pandemic-stricken world. The country’s dense rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and pristine coastlines offered ample room for outdoor adventure. Activities like zip-lining, horseback riding, and wildlife watching could be easily adapted to include health precautions.

One of the key advantages of Costa Rica in 2020 was its decentralized tourism model. Unlike countries where tourism is concentrated in a single city, Costa Rica’s attractions are spread across the country, reducing pressure on any single area. This distributed model meant that travelers could find solitude even in popular spots. The country’s commitment to sustainability was further highlighted by its use of renewable energy and its protection of biodiversity. For travelers who wanted to feel good about their impact while enjoying world-class adventures, Costa Rica was an obvious choice. Its reputation for safety, combined with its natural beauty, made it one of the best places to travel in 2020 during coronavirus.

Japan: Precision, Cleanliness, and Culture

Japan, a country renowned for its cleanliness and order, found itself in an advantageous position during the pandemic. While it initially faced challenges, its disciplined approach to hygiene and social behavior made it a relatively safe destination for those willing to navigate its specific protocols. The Japanese concept of "omotenashi" (wholehearted hospitality) extended to health care, with hotels and restaurants implementing rigorous sanitization routines.

Tokyo, often perceived as a crowded metropolis, actually offered ample space for social distancing due to its efficient public transport and vast urban design. Fewer tourists meant that iconic sites like the Senso-ji Temple and the Meiji Shrine could be enjoyed in a more intimate and peaceful manner. The high-speed rail system, known for its punctuality and cleanliness, remained a reliable mode of transport, connecting travelers to historical sites like Kyoto and Nara.

Furthermore, Japan’s advanced technology infrastructure made contact tracing and health monitoring seamless. For tech-savvy travelers, this level of efficiency was reassuring. The cultural emphasis on health and cleanliness resonated deeply with the global mindset of 2020. Japan’s ability to preserve its cultural integrity while adapting to modern health challenges made it a unique and compelling destination. It secured its place among the best places to travel in 2020 during coronavirus by offering a blend of tradition, technology, and tranquility.

Key Factors That Defined the 2020 Travel Experience

To understand why these destinations were the best places to travel in 2020 during coronavirus, we must look at the common threads that tied them together. Each of these locations prioritized three key elements: transparency, adaptability, and sustainability.

• Transparency: Travelers demanded clear, honest information about infection rates, testing facilities, and entry requirements. Iceland and New Zealand excelled in providing real-time data, allowing travelers to make informed decisions.
• Adaptability: The ability of businesses to pivot to new models was crucial. From outdoor dining in Portugal to flexible booking policies in Costa Rica, adaptability ensured that the travel experience remained enjoyable despite restrictions.
• Sustainability: The shift towards nature-based travel aligned perfectly with sustainable tourism goals. By exploring rural and natural areas, travelers helped disperse economic benefits and reduced the strain on over-touristed urban centers.

How to Plan Your Trip to These Safe Havens

Now that we have identified the top destinations, how do you ensure a smooth journey? At Alice's Adventures On Earth, we recommend the following strategy for planning your trip to any of these best places to travel in 2020 during coronavirus:

1. Check Entry Requirements Early: Policies can change rapidly. Keep an eye on official government websites for updates on visa requirements, mandatory quarantine periods, and vaccination proof.
2. Purchase Comprehensive Travel Insurance: Ensure your policy covers medical emergencies related to the coronavirus and includes coverage for trip cancellations and interruptions due to health issues.
3. Embrace the Flexible Mindset: Be prepared for changes. Your hotel might be repurposed, or a tour might be moved online. Having a flexible itinerary allows you to enjoy the journey even if plans shift.
4. Invest in Quality Gear: Bring high-quality masks, sanitizers, and hand sanitizer wipes. While these are available everywhere, having your preferred brands ensures comfort and familiarity.
5. Support Local Businesses: With tourism down, local businesses are struggling. By choosing locally owned tours, restaurants, and accommodations, you contribute directly to the community's recovery.

Conclusion: The Future of Travel is Resilient

The year 2020 was not just a year of survival; it was a year of innovation and redefinition. The best places to travel in 2020 during coronavirus were not just safe; they were inspiring. They showed us that travel could be slower, more intentional, and more connected to the environment. As we look back on this unique period, we see that it laid the groundwork for a new era of travel—one that values safety, sustainability, and authenticity.

Whether you chose the icy landscapes of Iceland, the lush hills of New Zealand, the sunny shores of Portugal, the rainforests of Costa Rica, or the temples of Japan, you were part of a global community of resilient travelers. You proved that the desire to explore is indomitable. As you plan your future adventures with Alice's Adventures On Earth, remember the lessons of 2020. Let them guide you towards destinations that offer not just beauty, but also a sense of security and responsibility. The world is still vast, and the best places to travel are always waiting, ready to welcome you with open arms, clean air, and unforgettable memories.

Embrace the adventure. Stay safe. Explore sustainably.