Best Vacation Ideas During Covid-19
I will be outlining the best vacation ideas for you or your family during Covid-19.
Just like most people me and my family have had to deal with Covid-19. The quarantine, loss of income, stress, and travel restrictions. As with most people we were not able to take our usual family vacation. Our vacation was the time that the family as a whole could bond and have fun together.
I have been looking at ways to travel, but due to significant income loss options are very limited. I still would like my family to enjoy the vacation, that when I started thinking what about all-inclusive resorts. This was an excellent option, we paid one price which includes unlimited drinks and food, tons of free things for the kids to do, romantic places for me and my wife. So, an all-inclusive island vacation was a great idea. The weather was great with plenty of sun, which is a natural killer of Covid-19, white beaches with plenty of space.
I and my family felt safe while still having an amazing vacation. So, I wanted to share this with others who are also looking to get out and start back living. I will first talk about how do you get Covid-19, is flying safe, and give you some examples of great areas to visit including links that will help you plan if you desire to do so. I will try to answer all your questions so that you can plan the best and safest vacation.
How does the coronavirus disease spread?
The virus that causes COVID-19 is thought to spread mainly from person to person, mainly through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Spread is more likely when people are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
Does social distancing help?
COVID-19 spreads mainly among people who are in close contact (within about 6 feet) for a prolonged period. Spread happens when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, and droplets from their mouth or nose are launched into the air and land in the mouths or noses of people nearby.
The droplets can also be inhaled into the lungs. Recent studies indicate that people who are infected but do not have symptoms likely also play a role in the spread of COVID-19. Since people can spread the virus before they know they are sick, it is important to stay at least 6 feet away from others when possible, even if they do not have any symptoms.
Does UV light kill COVID-19?
Ultraviolet (UV) rays are part of sunlight. Studies show that UV light can be used to kill airborne COVID-19 particles and disinfect surfaces. For this reason, some hospitals, subways, and other public locations are using UV light to help disinfect areas when they are not occupied by people. Locations with plenty of sunlight is a natural killer of the airborne virus (Covid-19).
Is flying dangerous?
All passengers are required to have proof of a negative covid-19 test before being able to board the plane. Most viruses and other germs do not spread easily on flights because of how air circulates and is filtered on airplanes. But being packed together on a big airliner is challenging during normal times, and many people are justifiably concerned, but the airlines have put into place several safety mechanisms to make traveling by air as safe as possible.
Here are some great vacation ideas for you to consider:
All-Inclusive Resorts are an all-around great choice for couples and families they are budget-friendly, lots of warm UV sunlight, and wide-open beaches with inherent social distancing. You benefit from the natural protection of UV light that has been shown to kill the airborne virus(covid-19). You will be able to enjoy your vacation comfortably and safely. These are a few of the amazing islands that have affordable resorts.
Gleaming beaches, glamorous guest rooms, and gourmet cuisine are just some of the features of the best luxury all-inclusive Caribbean resorts. Knowing your stay includes food, beverages, and many activities means you can relax and enjoy your vacation without worrying about hidden extras.
The Caribbean offers all-inclusive luxury hotels to suit every type of traveler, whether you want to unplug from the workaday world or sign up for a busy schedule of tropical adventures. You can escape to a private island, hideaway at an adults-only haven, or frolic with the family at an activity-packed resort. From private islands in Antigua to honeymoon havens in St. Lucia and family-friendly hotels in the Turks & Caicos, discover the best of the best with this list of luxury all-inclusive Caribbean resorts.
1. Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is the second-largest and most diverse Caribbean country, situated just two hours south of Miami, less than four hours from New York and eight hours from most European cities.
This Caribbean island is like no other, featuring astounding nature, intriguing history, and rich culture. Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the north and the Caribbean Sea on the south, featuring lush tropical island paradise boasts nearly 1,000 miles (1,609 km) of coastline, 250 miles (402 km) of the world’s top beaches, magnificent resorts and hotels, and a variety of sports, recreation and entertainment options.
Click HERE to Find Deals & Offers for Dominican republic.
Here you can dance to the pulse-pounding thrill of the merengue, renew in our luxurious and diverse accommodations, explore ancient relics of centuries past, delight in delicious Dominican foods, or enjoy ecotourism adventures in magnificent national parks, mountain ranges, rivers, and beaches. The country overflows with fascinating history, museums, and exciting cultural experiences like music, art, and festivals, plus uniquely Dominican specialties such as cigars, rum, chocolate, coffee, merengue, amber, and larimar.
The Dominican Republic is the #1 destination for golf in the Caribbean and Latin America, play on any of the 26 designer golf courses amid breathtaking coastlines with mountain backdrops and lush green fairways. With so many beautiful natural settings like romantic waterfalls, breathtaking coasts, and idyllic accommodations, Dominican Republic is a top destination for weddings and romance. The Dominican Republic offers a fantastic combination of environments to capture your imagination and refresh the soul. And with eight international airports, paradise has never been easier to explore.
2. Cofresi Palm Beach & Spa Resort – Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
Here are the highlights of this resort so that you can see if this one is right for you, if not I will be listing others on different islands ranging in price.
Cofresi Palm Beach & Spa Resort offers 468 well-appointed accommodations that range from Adult Only Spa Suites to Standard family-friendly rooms located in a quiet setting between the ocean beach and spectacular pool, this is a paradise worthy of the Lifestyle name.
Click HERE to Find Deals & Offers for Confresi Palm Beach & Spa Resort.
The resort was created with space and comfort in mind, making Cofresi Palm a relaxing, enjoyable, and satisfying experience for all guests and their families. Endless days filled with abundant sun, glorious beaches, and a first-class, full-service experience.
This resort has incredible onsite amenities to help you make the most of your Caribbean vacation. Cofresi Palm Beach & Spa Resort features 12 swimming pools, 11 restaurants, 11 bars, live entertainment, clubs, and so much more. Created with the mystic energy of an Asian temple in mind, enjoy eastern style message techniques, blended with the warmth of the Caribbean culture, blended into a unique experience of indulgence and relaxation. Catering to both men and women, this facility houses shower, sauna, and health club facilities as well as.
A full range of services is available here including various body and foot massage options, facials, nail and hair care, and aromatherapy.
When the sun goes down, the resort lights up with live nightly entertainment so you never have to leave! It’s time to bring it! Within walking distance members have a great location to dance the night away with pulse-pounding music and electric lights guaranteed to get your body moving!
Looking for a show, a song, and dance number, and maybe a laugh or two? With two entertainment complexes on property, experiencing any number of diversions is not a problem.The Colosseum is a large outdoor stage with various stage performances, while Lights, Camera, Action theatre is a more intimate indoor facility, yet both are dedicated to your amusement.
Discover the most unique region in the world, diverse in terms of destinations and tourist attractions: Blue sea, white sand beaches, rainforest, archeological sites, cenotes, underground rivers, islands, lagoons, Mayan culture, and history. With an infrastructure that competes worldwide for the variety in its offer of accommodation, typical and international cuisine, connectivity, multiculturalism, and natural resources.
The Mexican Caribbean is the paradise of Mexico where there is always something new to discover national cuisine, connectivity, multiculturalism, and natural resources. The Mexican Caribbean is the paradise of Mexico where there is always something new to discover.
3. Cancun Bay Resort – Cancun, Mexico
About Cancún Bay, it is a hotel located in front of the Bay of Isla Mujeres, on a beautiful beach by the Mexican Caribbean sea. Excellent location and only 2 miles from the Cancun Downtown, it is ideal for everyone that wants to relax and take advantage of the beauty of Cancun or those who want to have fun and live the nightlife of this destination.
Click HERE to Find Deals & Offers for Cancun Bay Resort.
The resort is located on a beautiful sea observing the different shades of blue that the destination offers us without having to travel to long distances that remain in the dock that we have departures to Isla Mujeres and different aquatic activities like snorkel, parachute, among others. Enjoy the most beautiful sunrises and charge you with energy and in the afternoon, enjoy yourself in the company of family or friends of unique sunsets that turn an impressive pink color.
4. Turks and Caicos
The Turks and Caicos is a tropical Atlantic island located 575 miles southeast of Miami, Florida, and 75 miles north of the Dominican Republic.
Two island groups: the Turks Islands of Grand Turk and Salt Cay to the east, and the larger Caicos Islands of Providenciales, North Caicos, Middle Caicos, East Caicos, South Caicos, and West Caicos to the west.
The 20 miles wide and 5000 foot deep Columbus Passage divides the two island groups. The majority of the population of Turks and Caicos resides on the island of Providenciales. Grand Turk is where the nation’s capital city of Cockburn Town. Unlike many Caribbean countries, the Turks and Caicos have one of the lowest annual rainfall averages in the region, and consequently a high percentage of sunny days and great weather.
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The islands in the Turks and Caicos are generally quite small, with low-elevation terrain. Drought-resistant tropical dry forest and marine mangrove wetlands make up the majority of vegetation in the country. Luxury tourism is the primary source of income for the Turks and Caicos.
Grance Bay Beach on the island of Providenciales is home to the majority of resorts and hotels in the country. The Turks & Caicos Islands have the perfect antidote for your hectic lifestyle: nearly abandoned, blindingly white sand fringed by shimmering azure water, colorful coral reefs, crispy conch fritters, and a sleepy, lighthearted atmosphere.
While the destructive hurricanes of 2017 did impact the island, much of the damage has been repaired and its beaches are still as stunning as ever.
Turks & Caicos holds tight to its reputation as an exclusive and secluded getaway. And regular vacationers to these skinny strips of alabaster sand will tell you that they wouldn’t have it any other way. This network of roughly 100 islands and cays has three dominant personalities.
There are glamorous Providenciales, or “Provo,” which shelters a bevy of luxurious hotels. Laid-back Grand Turk is the historic and cultural nucleus, best seen in the Turks & Caicos National Museum or along the shores of Cockburn Town. Salt Cay is one of the best places for deep-sea diving. Divers can explore one of the largest reef systems in the world.
Best Months to Visit
The best time to visit Turks & Caicos is April and May, a sweet spot featuring lower prices and fewer crowds.
The weather is pleasant year-round with average highs that hover in the 80s, but these islands do experience a rainy season, and the threat of hurricanes lingers from June to November. Statistically, hurricanes are most likely to disrupt the island’s tranquility between mid-August and September. Similar to other destinations in the Caribbean, Turks & Caicos’ peak travel period lasts from December to March.
5. The Meridian Club, Turks & Caicos
This resort is situated on crystalline turquoise waters and white sand beaches are trademarks to the over forty islands and cays.
Turks & Caicos is considered the World’s best-kept secret.
Its location makes it very easy to escape, this is due in large part to the connectivity from Miami, New York, Toronto, or London. Each island and cay is a destination on its own. Treat yourself and your family to the experience of luxurious accommodations, indulge in world-class spas, treat yourself to delectable dining in paradise and revel in our culture and local traditions.
With a fascinating history, and enviable crystal clear waters, unique airport, guests can enjoy privacy and tranquility, along with the company of a few others who share the same passion for life.
Aside from the perfect escape for couples and friends, the island and resort are also an unequaled destination for a private wedding or special celebration and is the ideal venue for family reunions, retreats, and corporate events. Snorkel. Kayak. Fish. Yoga. Sail. Spa. Hike. Relax. Walk the most beautiful private beach you have ever seen.
The opportunities to explore and rediscover yourself are endless here…
6. St. Lucia
Has a rich history of cultures, from Amerindians to Africans to the French and British, it’s no wonder St. Lucia has an enormous melting pot of cuisines.
Visit Resorts St. Lucia Destinations Page HERE
Of course, as an island, fresh seafood plays a central role, with everything from conch to mahi-mahi prepared in a myriad of ways. The island’s national dish, stewed saltfish with boiled green bananas, has a long history dating back to when salted cod was a staple for sailors on long voyages. It is prepared by stewing it with seasoning peppers and onions and is served with boiled, unripe bananas. You’ll find it on most menus across the island. Barbecued pork and chicken are also quite popular. Cocoa Tea, made with local cocoa, spices, and milk, is a standard breakfast drink, along with hot, deep-fried bread.
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Since many of the island’s best hotels offer all-inclusive packages and boast several restaurants on-site, you may be tempted to enjoy all your meals within the comfy confines of your resort.
Some of the best reviews that I have found recommend the Pink Plantation House in Castries for brunch, giving it high marks for service, food, and views. Masala Bay in Marigot Bay is another popular restaurant, with an Indian-Chinese fusion menu.
Diners love all the options, including many vegetarian dishes, as well as the views. Many visitors love the casual Roots Bar, where you can enjoy barbecue, beers, and views on the beach in Marigot Bay.
7. Bahamas
The roughly 700 islands that make up the Bahamas that lure millions of visitors to their white-washed shores, duty-free shops, fishing, and scuba diving excursions, and luxurious accommodations each year. Families that visit the Bahamas tend to indulge in the diversions of Atlantis, Paradise Island, and other mega-resorts, but this diverse island chain also offers a range of activities away from the hotel zone. Nature enthusiasts can explore pristine protected areas like the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve (on Eleuthera) and National Park (on Grand Bahama Island) or take it easy at one of the country’s many beaches or private islands.
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Bargain hunters can patrol the marketplaces in Nassau (the country’s capital), in Freeport, and on Paradise Island for the best duty-free deals. For those that enjoy cultural history, the ruins and artifacts from the colonial era and indigenous peoples like the Lucayan and Arawak Indians can be found on San Salvador, Cat Island and other Bahamian islands visiting the ruins is a great family outing with the kids. Cruise deals are available year-round making the Bahamas a popular vacation destination.
When to plan your trip:
The winter months are the country’s busiest time of year, so many hotels and resorts (especially popular ones like Atlantis, Paradise Island ) are booked solid months in advance so if you want to go during this time be sure to plan and book ahead.
Prices skyrocket and you’ll likely be waiting in line for everything from car rentals to meals, but the season’s comfortable daytime temps (in the high 70s to low 80s) and clear skies make these months ideal for going snorkeling or diving. If you’re sticking to a budget, consider vacationing before Christmas or between early January and late February when the popular Junkanoo Winter Festival is not taking place and spring breakers have yet to arrive. Here are fewer key Bahamas events:
- Abaco Christmas Festival (December)
- Bahamas International Film Festival (December)
- Junkanoo Winter Festival (December-January)
- Rum Cay Day Festival (February)
- Bahamas Music & Heritage Festival (March)
Crowds at top attractions are significantly thinner, festivals are plentiful and the best hotel deals – up to 60% off – are offered between late April and early December. But many Bahamian properties schedule maintenance during these months, which can lead to noisy surroundings and reduced services.
If you are looking for sunny days you may not want to visit between May to October which are the wettest months of the year, with the northern islands (such as Grand Bahama Island and The Abacos) generally seeing the most rainfall. Hurricanes may also make landfall here between June and November. I highly recommend that you buying travel insurance, so if a hurricane makes your plan change you are covered and do not lose your money and plan to go another time.
To visit between May to October which are the wettest months of the year, with the northern islands (such as Grand Bahama Island and The Abacos) generally seeing the most rainfall. Hurricanes may also make landfall here between June and November.
I highly recommend that you buying travel insurance, so if a hurricane makes your plan change your are covered and do not lose your money and plan to go another time.
8. Jamaica
Jamaica is the heart of the Caribbean. The birthplace of reggae music, the Rastafari movement, and all-inclusive resorts, Jamaica symbolizes many of the things most loved and, perhaps, most misunderstood about the region.
The simplest way to judge this beautiful misunderstood island is to visit its land of sugar cane, coffee, and limestone, and form your own opinion. You will be mesmerized by cream-colored beaches, bordered by the rugged Blue Mountains and anchored in foamy waterfalls. Most who travel here don’t leave the comforts of their all-inclusive resort; those who do typically don’t venture too far outside their immediate area.
Click HERE to Jamaica Golf Resorts & Vacations
As the third-largest island of the Caribbean, Jamaica is hard to cover in one trip. Rather, it’s best to choose your activities and vacation priorities, then make your hotel plans accordingly. Of the three main tourist pockets on the island, westernmost Negril is popular for its beaches and upscale accommodations; northwestern Montego Bay is well-liked by golfers; and Ocho Rios in the northeast appeals most to adventurous types who might be interested in climbing waterfalls like Dunn’s River.
Some (but not many) visitors choose the eastern area of Port Antonio to try the top-notch surfing at Boston Beach, the hiking along the Blue Mountains, and the river rafting along the Rio Grande.
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If you want to explore areas of the island not often seen by tourists, sign up for one of the tours in Jamaica is well-liked by golfers; and Ocho Rios in the northeast appeals most to adventurous types who might be interested in climbing waterfalls like Dunn’s River. Some (but not many) visitors choose the eastern area of Port Antonio to try the top-notch surfing at Boston Beach, the hiking along the Blue Mountains, and the river rafting along the Rio Grande. If you want to explore areas of the island not often seen by tourists, sign up for one of the tours in Jamaica.
9. Barbados
You can find a white-sand beach, a sprawling golf course, or a duty-free shopping plaza just about anywhere in the Caribbean, but in Barbados, visitors can taste the bittersweet Mount Gay Rum, dance to the thrum of a calypso song, or take in a polo or cricket match. And though you could spend all your time on the beaches, you’ll find plenty more to do when exploring this Caribbean paradise. This luxurious island is brimming with breathtaking architecture, a passionate sports culture, and a party-loving attitude making it a vacation destination.
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The easternmost island in the Caribbean, Barbados juggles two different cultures to create a distinctly Bajan personality. Even after gaining its independence from Great Britain in 1966, this island still holds tight to British traditions like afternoon tea, cricket, and horse races. Trademarks of the Caribbean and West Africa are still evident, however, in the island’s sugar cane fields, rum distilleries, and lush landscapes. While all of Barbados’ shorelines boast picturesque views and calming ocean breezes, some of the country’s must-visit beaches include Dover Beach, Bathsheba Beach, and the sands overlooking Carlisle Bay.
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Best Times to Visit Barbados
The best time to visit Barbados is between July and November. Though these months fall within the Caribbean’s hurricane season, hurricanes rarely hit the island, and you could attend one of the lively Crop Over Festival activities if you vacation during this time of year. Temperatures stay between the mid-70s and mid-80s year-round, so there’s little reason to travel during the peak season, which occurs from late December to mid-April.
10. Antigua
Antiguan culture is heavily influenced by African tradition and British colonialism. Many of Antigua’s residents are of African descent, as their ancestors were forced to come to Antigua at the hand of the British slave trade. If you visit Antigua you will notice the surviving African influence in the island’s rhythmic music and Creole language. The effects of British colonialism can also be seen in the presence of Christianity, specifically the Anglican religion, on the island as well as through the popularity of historically British sports like cricket. English is the country’s official language, but most Antiguans speak Creole in several different dialects.
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Calypso music, which was originally created by slaves as a means of communication, can be heard all around the island. Not to mention, the national dish, “fungi” (the island’s take on polenta or grits), wouldn’t be served anywhere else in the Caribbean. The country’s massive Carnival event – which is celebrated every August to commemorate the emancipation of Antiguan slaves – is the best time to understand the complexity and diversity of Antiguan culture.
When it comes to typical island customs, like tipping for service, a bit of extra generosity is always accepted. Many restaurants and hotels add a 10% service charge to the bill, but if they don’t, be sure to leave a 10 or 15% tip. Use those guidelines to tip bartenders and taxi drivers as well. The currency of Antigua and Barbuda is the East Caribbean dollar, but United States dollars are widely accepted. One U.S. dollar is equal to about 2.70 East Caribbean dollars.
Best Times to Visit Antigua
The best time to visit Antigua is from May to November, the island’s offseason. Rates are cheapest at this time, and although there is a slight threat of hurricanes, the weather rarely escapes 80 degrees. You’ll encounter less rain between December and April, but rates are more expensive and crowds are abundant.
December-February is the dry season that begins in January, and though there are sometimes droughts, the sunshine creates one of the most pleasant climates in the Caribbean. But you’ll have to make flight and hotel reservations several months in advance – this is the peak tourist season. March-April Antigua is often overlooked by spring break vacationers, so it’s perfect for dodging the crowd. However, the cruise crowds won’t taper off until the end of April, meaning that hotel rates remain relatively high.
Key Events for you to help with your planning.
Antigua Charter Yacht Show (December)
Antigua Sailing Week (Late April-Early May)
Antigua and Barbuda International Kite Festival (Late March-Early April)