International travel is looking-up, as the world turns a corner on the COVID-19 pandemic. Ready to make up for those travel plans cancelled in the virus’ wake and dust-off the ol’ passport? While forecasting what international travel will look like in the months ahead is difficult, as a result of changing travel requirements and restrictions, there are a number of enticing far-flung destinations that are open to U.S. tourism (as of this posting date). Plus, flying private significantly reduces your risk of exposure, making travel even more worry-free. Please note, for U.S. re-entry, a negative COVID-19 test (taken within 72 hours) is required regardless of vaccination status.
Read on for our recommendations and what to expect:
Mexico
This client-favorite destination has largely remained open and accessible to U.S. tourism, via jet.
What to expect: a no-touch COVID-19 health assessment form.
Enjoy Mexican hospitality and soak up the year-round sunshine on the pristine, white sand beaches of Los Cabos (the neighboring towns of San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas), where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean.
We are partial to the luxurious, ultra-private Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, accessible by Mexico’s only privately-owned Don Mares tunnel. Experience the property by way of our “Passport to Pedregal” partnership, which includes round-trip flight into Cabo San Lucas International Airport from anywhere in the U.S. for four to eight guests, seven-night stay in a two-bedroom ocean view suite (with private plunge pool and terrace), and more.
We suggest our CJ3 light jet, for up to seven passengers.
Turks and Caicos
The Carribean region British Oversea Territory, is open for U.S. tourism.
What to expect: Travel insurance is required.
Over 40 islands and cays (8 are inhabited) make-up the spectacular tropical archipelago, located south of the Bahamas. Pristine, white-sand beaches make this a favorite Caribbean destination — in fact, Turks and Caicos was ranked one of the “five best islands to visit in the Caribbean & Atlantic” by Conde Nast Traveler readers in 2018.
Home to the world’s third-largest barrier reef and some of the finest white-sand beaches in the world, it’s a mecca for diving and snorkeling.
We suggest our midsized Citation Latitude, for up to eight passengers.
Montenegro
The postage stamp-sized Balkans nation is open for U.S. tourism.
What to expect: Active vaccine passport program.
Named an “emerging destination” by Conde Nast Traveler in 2017, Montenegro offers an array of experiences from multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites and majestic mountains to spectacular beaches along the Adriatic Sea and well-preserved medieval towns.
The Sveti Stefan islet, once a tiny 15th century fortified village and a favorite destination for the likes of Elizabeth Taylor and Sophia Loren, is now the five-star Aman Sveti Stefan and exclusively accessible to resort guests. Hand-restored buildings with breathtaking sea views have been thoughtfully transformed into ultra luxe rooms, suites and cottages.
We suggest our midsized Challenger 350, for up to eight passengers.
Maldives
This isolated island paradise welcomes U.S. tourists.
What to expect: Passengers must have accommodations at a declared resort for length of stay. Online Traveler Health Declaration Form required (includes a confirmed negative COVID-19 PCR test taken 96 hours prior to departure).
The 1,000+ island haven (nearly 500 miles from the Asian continent) is best known for its quintessential overwater bungalows and boasts the third best beaches in the world, as ranked by U.S. News & World Report Travel.
Experience the utmost in luxury with a stay at Waldorf Astoria’s exclusive Ithaafushi Private Island, a 32,000 square-meter paradise (for up to 24 discerning guests) complete with a 3-bedroom villa, a 2-bedroom over water villa, 4-bedroom residence, 5 pools and a private entertainment clubhouse. Dedicated chefs and personal concierge attend to your every wish.
We suggest our Challenger 601 heavy jet, for up to 12 passengers.
