When planning a vacation, one thing that has undoubtedly crossed travelers’ minds is how safe their intended destination really is. No one wants to fall victim to a crime, especially while on a trip that’s meant to be fun and relaxing. Knowing which countries are the safest in the world is great for international travel, but what about domestic travel? Using current crime statistics, we have determined the top 10 safest cities in the United States.
The crime index is listed for each city below. Lower numbers are better, and any number below 40 is considered ‘low-crime’. For all other statistics, scores are based on a scale of 100. Also, one of the most common crimes that affect travelers is pickpocketing. For this reason, we have included data about pickpocketing in each city.
10) San Diego, California
Crime Index: 38.43
Beautiful beaches, near-perfect weather, and countless activities draw millions of visitors to San Diego annually. Though it is a top tourist destination in the U.S., it still ranks quite well for safety. People feel comfortable in San Diego, with little worry of attack due to discrimination.
Pickpocketing Worry: 31.41 (Low)
9) Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Crime Index: 38.19
Pittsburgh welcomes over 12 million overnight guests every year. It is a popular destination for travelers who love great food, art, and big cities with a small-town feel. People feel particularly comfortable walking alone during the day in Pittsburgh.
Pickpocketing Worry: 34.70 (Low)
8) Austin, Texas
Crime Index: 38.03
Great food, craft beer, local music, and amazing parks draw more than 30 million domestic travelers to this city every year. With an eclectic mix of residents, visitors will feel right at home in the melting pot of Austin. Though crime has been increasing in the city over the last three years, it remains one of the safest cities to visit in the U.S.
Pickpocketing Worry: 30.00 (Low)
7) Raleigh, North Carolina
Crime Index: 36.11
Littered with craft breweries, new restaurants, cool coffee shops, and beautiful parks, Raleigh welcomes about 13 million visitors per year. A visitor’s favorite, the Raleigh Beer Trail is designed for craft beer enthusiasts. Prizes are given to those who visit enough breweries, and it is an interesting way to see more of the city.
Pickpocketing Worry: 29.51 (Low)
6) Boise, Idaho
Crime Index: 35.39
Visitors enjoy Boise for its proximity to nature and easy access to activities like skiing, fishing, and hiking. The city itself is full of activities and is surrounded by beautiful snow-topped mountains.
Pickpocketing Worry: 28.57 (Low)
5) Madison, Wisconsin
Crime Index: 33.70
Madison is growing in popularity and is even ranked #1 on Livability’s top 100 places to live in 2022. With over 200 miles of recreation trails for hiking and biking, it’s a popular city for outdoor enthusiasts.
Pickpocketing Worry: 26.10 (Low)
4) Salt Lake City, Utah
Crime Index: 32.96
Salt Lake City is the perfect base camp for visiting five national parks, including Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Arches, Capital Reef, and Zion. Public transportation is widely available for days in the city, and the light rail system, TREX, is free. For winter tourists, there are many ski resorts nearby.
Pickpocketing Worry: 25.25 (Low)
3) El Paso, Texas
Crime Index: 32.28
Authentic Mexican food, stretching desert landscapes, and visiting the historic Plaza Theater are popular attractions for travelers heading to El Paso. The city isn’t the most popular tourist destination in the states and sees about 2.3 million visitors per year. However, El Paso may be an excellent option for travelers who like to explore places that aren’t as frequently visited.
Pickpocketing Worry: 24.57 (Low)
2) Amarillo, Texas
Crime Index: 22.97
Amarillo sits at the midpoint of U.S. Route 66, making it an ideal place to stop on an iconic road trip. Visitors can leave their mark at the Cadillac ranch, where they can spray paint their own graffiti on old Cadillacs that have been half-buried in the ground. Like El Paso, the city doesn’t see an overwhelming number of tourists per year, making it a more off-the-beaten-path destination.
Pickpocketing Worry: 20.31 (Low)
1) Irvine, California
Crime Index: 20.58
Irvine is an excellent location for checking out different parts of California. About 85 miles from San Diego, 45 from L.A., and just a 15-minute drive from Disneyland Resort, Irvine is an excellent base camp. Irvine scored very low across the board for safety considerations, with the index citing low rates of violent crime, drug use, and general crime levels. Visitors enjoy visiting the Irvine Spectrum Center, home to the Irvine Improv, which regularly welcomes well-known comedians.
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As remote work becomes more prevalent, many people are beginning to blend work with travel. The number of digital nomads is steadily increasing, and companies like Airbnb have benefited. The company says that many travelers have been living in an Airbnb for entire seasons at a time, with about 20% of guests in 2021 reporting that they were working remotely during their stay. Airbnb says the trend has continued into the first quarter of 2022 and has announced the five most popular U.S. cities for digital nomads this year.
1) Los Angeles, California
As the second most populated city in the U.S., Los Angeles is known for being a city of dreamers and is called home by people from all over the world. It’s an excellent city to settle into for a while and offers great options for digital nomads.
Some benefits of Los Angeles as a digital nomad include:
Fast internet all over the city. For those using Airbnb, the internet is also likely included.
There are plenty of cafes with internet and coworking spaces to work out of.
You’ll never run out of new things to do and try.
2) New York, New York
New York City is the second most popular city for digital nomads and is the most populated city in the United States. For those just getting started as a digital nomad, the big apple can be a tall order as it has one of the highest costs of living in the world. However, for those who can afford it, New York City can be a great place to call home for a time as a digital nomad.
Some benefits of New York as a digital nomad include:
Endless coffee shops with fast internet and loads of coworking spaces to choose from.
There is so much to do in this city you’ll have trouble crossing everything off your list.
You won’t need a car. New York City is very well connected, and public transportation is everywhere.
3) San Francisco, California
San Francisco is the third most popular choice for digital nomads, according to Airbnb. Following the theme of the first two cities on the list, San Francisco is also an expensive city. The average rent in the city is nearly $3,400, so digital nomads should prepare for higher costs. Still, there are benefits to the area.
Some benefits of San Francisco as a digital nomad include:
Networking. As the home of global technology, San Franciso is a great place to meet other like-minded people using the internet to leverage their careers.
The weather is incredible all year long. Winter is mild, and summer hovers in the mid-70s.
It’s easy to explore. Public transport is thriving in the city, and those with a bicycle can quickly get around due to the city’s extensive bike lanes.
4) Houston, Texas
Houston is the fourth most popular choice for digital nomads this year and the fourth most populous city in the United States. The city covers a lot of ground and is fairly car-dependent regarding transportation. Digital nomads may find it challenging to get around without one. However, digital nomads are still flocking to the city.
Some benefits of Houston as a digital nomad include:
It’s a big city but it is more affordable than many others. It had the second lowest cost of living compared to other populous U.S. metro areas in quarter one of 2022.
There is always something going on. Concerts, sporting events, museums, and shows are constantly being put on. Entertainment will never be in short supply.
5) Seattle, Washington
Seattle is the fifth most popular choice for digital nomads for 2022. As the home of the world’s first Starbucks, it goes without saying there are endless options for coffee shops to work out of. There are plenty of transportation options in the city, and there really isn’t much need to have a car.
Some benefits of Seattle as a digital nomad include:
Close to nature. Seattle is an excellent city choice for those who like to get away from the city to refresh for a day, with Olympic National Park in close proximity.
There is no shortage of coworking spaces in the city for those who need more structure.
As digital nomads continue to change the fabric of work culture, it’s likely that Airbnb and other accommodations companies will work to attract them. Airbnb recently announced their own “live and work anywhere initiative,” allowing their employees to work remotely from anywhere without any change in pay. Hopefully, other companies will introduce similar programs for those interested in the digital nomad lifestyle.
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Italy’s primary train operator, Trenitalia, recently launched three new high-speed rail services connecting Rome-Fiumicino’s International airport to main train stations in Naples and Florence.
Trenitalia started serving these new routes on July 11 and new train schedules were designed considering air travel to synchronize comfortable connections between air —arrivals and departures— and train travel. Great news for international travelers!
The new routes will connect the Frecciarossa—the name of the fast trains in Italy— and will allow tourists who arrive at Rome’s airport to go straight to Napoli to taste the original pizza. And those exploring charming Florence will now also be able to take a fast train to Rome’s international airport. These are the new services:
From Naples —Napoli Centrale (central station), and Napoli Afragola (high-speed trains station)— to Fiumicino Airport.
From Fiumicino Airport to Naples: Napoli Centrale and Napoli Afragola.
From Florence’s train station, Florence Santa Maria Novella, to the Fiumicino Airport.
American travelers will benefit from the new routes. The Aeroporti di Roma stated in the official announcement: “With these connections, passengers can be in New York in the early afternoon, leaving early in the morning from Naples or Florence.”
The alliance between the Ferrovie Dello Stato Italiane and Aeroporti di Roma hopes to keep improving schedules and connectivity and allow passengers to register and carry out baggage check-in from train stations in the near future.
These new routes go hand in hand with the Italian Government’s strategy to facilitate connectivity and help travelers visit different destinations in this country. They recently also launched a campaign to promote 1,000 off-the-beaten-path destinations in Italy.
More Routes And Connections For Travelers
The new services will improve connectivity between central and southern Italy, enhance the integration between rail and air service and also comply with the European Union’s sustainable strategies in transportation.
The new connections will include the Leonardo Express route, which is the fast train service from Rome’s main station to the International airport, which is the quickest way to get to the airport and it takes 32 minutes. This airport shuttle usually offers travelers train services every 15 minutes.
Now international travelers will not only get the fastest services to Naples and from Florence to the Airport, but they will also have many more options to visit other fascinating destinations in Italy faster and easier.
The routes of the Frecciargento trains —the high-speed train services in Italy that go up to 250 Kilometers per hour (around 155 miles per hour)— also provide services that, with the new connections, will be more accessible for travelers.
The Florence route will allow passengers who visit iconic destinations like Venice or Padua, and Bologna, to get to Rome’s international airport faster and plan exciting routes while they visit this fascinating country.
About Naples and Florence
Travelers from all over the world will now be able to land at Rome’s main international airport and quickly arrive in the south of Italy to taste the original pizza. Naples is known as the “Home Place of Pizza”, where it was created, but it also hosts fascinating architecture, landscapes, and fascinating activities.
From Florence, travelers will also be able to reach very social-media-trendy getaways at the moment like the beautiful Amalfi coast or the fascinating Capri, an island located in the Bay of Naples.
For travelers looking to discover more about Italian history and art, Florence will definitely satisfy their needs. Visitors can explore the most fascinating museums and worldwide famous art galleries. Unique pieces from Brilliant artists like Da Vinci, Botticelli, and Michelangelo are located in this city.
Venice is also a trendy and iconic destination —travelers must remember that next year visitors will have to pay a fee to visit for the day— famous for its beautiful architecture, bridges, and gondolas. Those visiting Venice will also benefit from the new route and access to high-speed trains that will connect them quickly to Rome.
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The American travel magazine Travel + Leisure has recently shared The World’s Best Awards 2022, the results of a survey performed by editors and the research firm M&RR. Mexico stood out earning great reviews and recommendations.
This fascinating country earned the award of best destination 2022 and the government’s efforts to improve the tourist experience have been paying off. According to data collected, travelers are now visiting Mexico more than they did before the pandemic started.
Travel + Leisure’s readers shared experiences, voted, and ranked the top destinations in this country. Many factors were considered, like cultural experiences, history, restaurants, infrastructure, art, food, hotels, transportation, and travelers’ personal anecdotes.
Surprisingly, the Mexican cities with the best recommendations from travelers and experts are not coastal cities. For this ranking, more elements besides beautiful beaches were considered and trendy destinations like Cancun or Puerto Vallarta didn’t make the cut.
Here are the 5 best cities in Mexico according to Travel + Leisure, and a brief description of what travelers should know about these interesting destinations:
1. Oaxaca: Mexico’s Food Capital
This fascinating city is located in the south of Mexico and offers travelers unique and exotic experiences. It earned first place with a score of 92.96 because of its art, delicious food and drinks, welcoming indigenous cultures, and its great variety of attractions.
Readers highlighted culinary experiences like tasting the seven types of mole—a traditional sauce— and the impressive diversity of mezcal and cocktails. This city is known as Mexico’s food capital and hosts wonderful places to eat, but also interesting ancient culture and spectacular traditional art.
2. San Miguel de Allende: Unique architecture
This beautiful colonial city earned second place and a score of 91.77. San Miguel de Allende is located in central Mexico and travelers will find fascinating Spanish architecture in this destination: from neo-gothic churches to temples from the 18th century.
Those looking for an authentic Mexican experience can find it here. Travelers will find traditional festivals with folklore music and dances, old stores, beautiful local art, and of course delicious food and even trendy wine experiences. It has also gained popularity for bachelorette parties and as an attractive among American expats.
3. Mexico City: The Charming capital
Mexico’s capital has been offering travelers vibrant experiences. The largest city in North America has it all: great restaurants, fascinating museums, beautiful parks, spectacular landmarks unique attractions, and friendly people. It scored 90.90 in the survey.
Mexico City has been gaining popularity and last year it was considered among the top 10 best cities in the world. From visiting Frida Kahlo’s house to exploring the Aztec ruins to eating delicious tacos in the bohemian district of Roma, there are so many things travelers can do!
4. Mérida: A Colorful Experience
This colorful destination offers travelers the opportunity to visit ancient temples, admire the local colonial architecture, and taste delicious traditional meals. This city in Yucatan is considered one of the safest cities in Mexico and also got a great score in the survey: 90.90.
In Mérida, travelers can learn about Mayan culture and historical events and also visit nearby beaches like Progreso in the Yucatan peninsula. The city’s main market —which dates back to the 19th century— offers visitors great local goods and local festivals can also be fascinating experiences for tourists.
5. Guadalajara: Where Modernity and History Combine
This large metropolis, located in western Mexico, is popularly known for its tequila, the famous mariachis, and its recent technological development. Guadalajara is a major tech hub in Latin America, has become an international center of business, and also a capital of culture, the most important film festival in Latin America takes place in this city.
Travelers from all over the world can enjoy this fascinating city. Visitors can explore its modern infrastructures but also the historic center with colonial buildings and neoclassical architecture.
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When most people think of the best cities in the world, they likely picture some of the most well-known cities like Paris, London, New York, or LA. However, after a massive survey of over 20,000 city residents around the globe, the best cities in the world, according to Timeout, may surprise you. Not just because they aren’t the most well-known or the first to come to mind, but because several are known, but not for reasons that would point to them being the best. So, what are the best cities in the world according to Timeout?
1) Edinburgh, Scotland
According to the 2022 Time Out Index, the best city in the world is Edinburgh, Scotland. With all this beautiful European city has to offer, it isn’t surprising that it secured the top spot. Some of the city’s attractive qualities include:
Incredible views and history dash the streets of this highly walkable city.
Independent shops are everywhere, offering unique merchandise you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
Edinburgh offers a progressive feel and welcomes everyone, with 88% of residents reporting that expressing who you are in Edinburgh is effortless.
2) Chicago, Illinois
A surprising second-place city due to a high-crime stigma, Chicago is often mistaken for the murder capital of the United States. In reality, Chicago was 10th on the list of cities with the most murders in 2022, with 24 per 100,000 people. In general, Chicago is a very safe city to visit, with high crime rates mostly restricted to specific neighborhoods. Below are some of the things that draw people to Chicago:
The Food! Chicago-style deep-dish pizza is an absolute must when visiting this city, and Chicago-style hot dogs line the streets from vendors throughout the city.
Iconic art and culture. Art galleries are all over the city, and shows are constantly taking place.
Thriving nightlife. Whether you’re into happy hours, dinners, bars, or nightclubs, Chicago offers something for everyone looking for entertainment after the sun goes down.
3) Medellín, Colombia
Another surprise on this year’s list, Medellín used to be known as the most dangerous city in the world. When many people think of the city, they picture Pablo Escobar and crime. However, much has changed in the past 30 years, and Medellín is now generally considered safe. Here are some of the top reasons people visit:
The weather is almost perfect, with year-round averages of 72°F (22°C).
Medellín offers exceptional value for your money, with some hostels costing less than $10 per night.
Like Chicago, the nightlife is flourishing. Whether looking for a relaxed drink or a bass-fueled dance party, there is evening entertainment to suit every traveler.
4) Glasgow, Scotland
Glasgow is the second-largest city in Scotland and was voted the friendliest in the Time Out Index for 2022. The people are kind, and the city is brimming with things to do. People love Glasgow for many reasons, including:
5) Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Respondents to the Time Out Index voted Amsterdam the easiest place on earth to ‘express who you are’ and awarded it second place for progressiveness. Unsurprisingly, it is the best city in the world for bicyclists and is also extremely walkable. Here are some of the reasons people love this famous European city:
The nightlife is unlikely to disappoint. With countless nightclubs throughout the city and a closing time of 4 a.m. on the weekends, Amsterdam offers partygoers endless opportunities to dance to their heart’s content.
Coffeeshop culture. Amsterdam and Marijuana are two words that go hand in hand in many people’s minds. The city has over 160 coffeeshops to enjoy. Recently, the city proposed banning tourists from its coffeeshops, but for now, visitors are still allowed.
The five cities above each offer visitors unique experiences they won’t find elsewhere. Each has a unique blend of culture, commerce, and charm that has earned them the top 5 spots for the best cities in the world, according to Timeout. Below are the top 20 cities on Timeout’s list of 53 best countries.
Top 20 Best Cities of the World List
Edinburgh
Chicago
Medellín
Glasgow
Amsterdam
Prague
Marrakech
Berlin
Montreal
Copenhagen
Cape Town
Madrid
Manchester
Mumbai
Melbourne
Taipei
London
Porto
Lyon
New York
For a complete list of all 53 of the best cities in the world according to Timeout, see their website.
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Out of concern they will not be able to cope with a rising travel demand, and in order to protect other important routes, American Airlines has made the painful decision to suspend four of its most popular international flights. While two of them will be unavailable during winter only, the others were either paused indefinitely – or worse, axed forever.
As if that weren’t enough, the airline is pulling out of three U.S. cities amid a major network shake-up, unceremoniously severing vital links between smaller domestic hubs and larger airports. The first post-Covid summer may be completely restriction-free, as promised, but cancellations and travel disruption continue widespread across the industry.
American’s latest scale back is yet another proof of that:
American Drops 3 U.S. Cities From Map While Suspending A Number Of International Routes
Citing staffing constraints and, more importantly, pilot shortages, American Airlines is dropping three routes and ‘temporarily’ halting service on five others, both domestic and international. Three of those are paused indefinitely, while two are unavailable through winter 2022. Below, you will find a list of all affected destinations and their current status:
Domestic
Charlotte, North Carolina (CLT) to Alexandria, Louisiana (AEX) – Cut
Chicago O’Hare (ORD) to Ontario, California (ONT) – Cut
Chicago O’Hare (ORD) to El Paso, Texas (ELP) – Suspended indefinitely
Charlotte, North Carolina (CLT) to Sioux Falls, South Dakota (FSD) – Suspended indefinitely
International
Chicago O’Hare (ORD) to Saint Lucia (UVF) – Cut
Dallas/Forth Worth (DFW) to San Pedro Sula, Honduras (SAP) – Suspended indefinitely
Philadelphia (PHL) to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic (SDQ) – Suspended during winter 2022
Philadelphia (PHL) to Santiago, Dominican Republic (STI) – Suspended during winter 2022
Judging by the airline’s recent announcements, which include new flights to Cozumel, in Mexico, and two destinations in Jamaica, the Dominican Republic no longer ranks high on their list of priority destinations right now, with a majority of American travelers set to fly to Mexico instead this summer.
Small Cities In The States Of New York And Ohio Will Have New Connectivity Problems
Dealing another heavy blow to regional airports, which are among some of the most affected by cuts and trimmed schedules during the worsening aviation crisis, American Airlines is also dropping a further three U.S. cities from their route map altogether. Effective September 7, the airline will cease serving the following hubs:
Islip, New York (ISP)
Ithaca, New York (ITH)
Toledo, Ohio (TOL)
According to an American Airlines spokesperson, the company made the ‘difficult decision’ to withdraw from the three cities as it struggles with staff shortages, affecting not only them but every major airline in the U.S. at present. They have reassured customers they will ‘proactively reach out’ to them after September 7 to offer ‘alternate arrangements’.
Passengers from both Islip and Ithaca relied on the availability of intra-U.S. flights to access major networks, within the U.S. and abroad, while Toledo residents are left with no choice but to drive two hours to Cleveland when vital links are cut. Now that one of the largest airlines in America has given up on them, logistics could become a lot more complex.
Envoy Air, American’s regional affiliate, had historically connected Toledo’s Express Airport to Chicago O’Hare (ORD), one of the busiest in the States. Sadly, even after having established a strong presence in this market over many years, and offering Toledo’s only gateway into the world, American Airlines saw no other choice but to shut down all operations.
Similarly to Envoy, Piedmont Airlines provided easy links to Philadelphia (PHL) from both Tompkins International Airport, in Ithaca, and the Long Island MacArthur Airport in Islip. Those will no longer be available come September 7, when the changes will be enacted and American Airlines is due to end the aforementioned service.
Toledo Is Now Effectively Cut Off From All Major Flight Networks
It’s not all bad for the New York cities, as they will remain connected to the networks of at least 4 big U.S. carriers. Southwest Airlines will continue operating in Islip, alongside Frontier and Breeze, and Ithaca still has Delta Connection and United Express as backup now that American is leaving for good. Conversely, connectivity has been seriously reduced in Toledo.
Once American Airlines halts operations in the city, ultra low-cost airline Allegiant Air will be the only airline present in the city. Flights are only available to a handful of other small U.S. hubs, such as Orlando/Sanford, Phoenix/Mesa, Punta Gorda in Florida and St Petersburg/Clearwater – we’re afraid the two-hour drive to Cleveland is the least stressful option here.
The presence of strategic route maps that benefit smaller airports is paramount for regional connectivity, something that has come under threat again as the industry seeks to readjust overambitious schedules following an unprecedented surge in passenger numbers. Unfortunately, local hubs should brace for far greater future challenges yet to come.
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Delta has recently revealed that it has officially canceled flights to five cities across the US, with the cancellations in question starting this Fall. The most recent casualties of the post-pandemic cull of non-essential routes, Delta’s announcement makes it simply the latest in a long, growing list of airlines the world over that have moved to trim their overall route offerings in recent months, as airlines continue to scale back their operations and prioritize their services on the back of a tough period for the aviation industry.
Yet whilst Delta, which is the third-largest airline in the US, may be set to cut routes, the airline has also recently announced some additions to its overall flight roster. Here’s a closer look at which routes are set to be affected by Delta’s latest route trimming announcements, plus a recap of the new flight offerings that have emerged from the airline in recent months.
Delta Cut Routes – Information for Travelers
Like it has been for most businesses around the world, the pandemic has been particularly tough on the aviation industry. Between Covid-19 related pilot shortages and travelers following advice to stay home, several air routes that were not amongst the most popular or profitable have been slashed by airlines across the country, with just 80% of the flight routes available in 2019 now available for travelers to take this year.
Even major airlines like Delta have been forced to make cuts, as this week’s announcement shows. Delta revealed that they will be cutting flights to five cities throughout the month of September. The cities set to be affected by the route cuts are Albany, Rochester and Syracuse in New York, in addition to flights to Providence, Rhode Island and Houston, Texas.
From September 6th, Delta will no longer be operating flights from its Minneapolis-St. Paul hub airport to Albany and Rochester, with flights from Minneapolis to Syracuse, also being cut from September 12th. Not only will this cut the airline’s connectivity with New York, but it will force regular flyers of the route to take the flight with Delta’s competitors, which could see them incur some lengthy connection times in comparison to Delta’s.
Delta will also be cutting its flights from Minneapolis-St. Paul to Providence, Rhode Island from September 5th in what could be another blow to regulars of the route. Fortunately for travelers, there is still the option of flying from Minneapolis directly to Providence with Sun Country Airlines, which operates four direct flights between the two airports per week. The airline’s fifth and final route cancellation will be between John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK) in New York and Houston, Texas from September 12th.
As is the case with many regional airport flight route cuts, the decision has been largely made due to lack of demand. A spokesperson for the airline said “We continue to monitor and adjust our flight schedules and route network based on customer demand,” which suggests more route cuts could be on the cards in the future.
However, it hasn’t all been cuts coming out of Delta, with the airline recently having announced a series of new, exciting routes for travelers to take advantage of. Already this year, Delta revealed it would be adding more flights between the US and Hawaii starting in November, in addition to several new transatlantic flights for those looking to go a bit further this summer.
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There’s no denying that for the last few years traveling has been somewhat challenging – especially in comparison to pre-pandemic days – with practically every nation on the planet having an extensive list of entry requirements for visitors.
However, with much of the world having entered – or at least beginning to enter – the endemic stage of the Covid-19 pandemic, it is becoming much easier for international travelers to enter countries for tourism purposes.
Throughout this article we are going to take a look at 12 cities to visit this summer – from countries in Europe, as well as Central and South America – that have removed all of their covid-related entry requirements.
And, on top of that, some countries have even gotten rid of all of their internal restrictions as well.
Yes, you heard right. The below cities can now be visited with ZERO entry requirements or travel restrictions.
This means…
NO Covid-19 testing – either pre-departure or on arrival
NO need to show proof of vaccination – both when entering the country or traveling around internally
NO quarantine requirements
that nationals from ALL countries can now enter.
These cities are also in countries that no longer have a requirement to present vaccine passports to enter public places – such as bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
And, in most of them, there are also no longer enforced rules when it comes to wearing face masks in public.
So, basically, you can now visit – and enjoy – all that these wonderful and fascinating cities have to offer, restriction-free.
Mendoza, Argentina
Famous for its warm and sunny weather, a wide variety of fine dining options – and of course, its Malbec and selection of other red wines – the city of Mendoza is a city not-to-be-missed when visiting Argentina.
Located in Argentina’s Cuyo region, Mendoza is situated in a picturesque setting – with its tree-lined and leafy streets, as well as its mix of both modern and art deco style architecture.
Here are some of the city’s must-see attractions:
Parque Provincial Aconcagua
Mendoza River
Bodega Tierras Altas
Parque General San Martin
Bodega Roberto Bonfanti
And, for all the wine lovers out there, Mendoza offers the opportunity to take a bike tour around its world-renowned wineries.
San José, Costa Rica
Not only is San José Costa Rica’s capital city – but it is also the nation’s largest, with it being located right in the center of the country.
Although most travelers would arrive in San José before heading off to other destinations inside the country, the city itself is not one to be missed – as it offers visitors some of the very best Costa Rican nightlife options.
And, for those who enjoy checking out the local architecture, San José will certainly not disappoint – with its beautifully constructed Victorian-style buildings.
If cafe-hopping is one of your favorite pastimes, then the Swedish city of Gothenburg might be the perfect option for you.
Situated on the west side of the country – off the nation’s Göta älv river – Gothenburg is home to some of Europe’s finest cafes and shops.
The city also boasts numerous historical sites – which can be explored by foot whilst taking in its beautiful Dutch-style waterways and leafy surroundings.
Here are some of the city’s must-see attractions:
Southern Gothenburg Archipelago
Botanical Garden
Liseberg amusement park
Volvo Museum
Haga
Copenhagen, Denmark
Known as one of the happiest cities in the world, Denmark’s Capital – Copenhagen – offers so much for visitors to enjoy.
With many iconic sites to visit, as well as being an easy-to-explore city by bicycle, the Danish capital certainly has a charm that will not go unnoticed.
The city also boasts some of Europe’s finest eating and drinking options for travelers – with some of the best Scandinavian restaurants located there.
Copenhagen is also a great choice for those who enjoy beer-tasting – with the city playing home to breweries and bars, which offer some of the planet’s very best when it comes to pilsner and craft beer.
Here are some of the city’s must-see attractions:
Tivoli Gardens
Nyhavn
Rosenborg Castle
Christiansborg Palace
Frederiksberg Slot
Riga, Latvia
Featuring a beautiful Old Town – which offers a wide variety of entertainment to suit the needs of all travelers – the Latvian capital of Riga is certainly a city worth checking out.
Situated right at the mouth of the River Daugava, Latvia is a great choice for travelers that enjoy visiting museums, concert halls, artistic architecture – as well as those who seek a good night out.
The city’s Livu Square – which can get extremely busy and lively – boasts many cafes, bars and nightclubs – with live music also taking place on a daily basis.
Here are some of the city’s must-see attractions:
Vecriga (Old City Riga)
House of the Blackheads
Riga Central Market
Riga Cathedral
Riga Motormuseum
Cork, Ireland
Known as the ‘foodie capital’ of Ireland, the city of Cork is certainly going to be favored by those who enjoy sampling a variety of fresh seafood and different cheeses – as well as those who have a sweet tooth, and enjoy a bite of homemade chocolate.
All of the above can be found in the city’s famous English Market – which dates back to the 18th century.
Cork is a great city to partake in a tour – with there being so much to take in for travelers, including some beautifully-characteristic seaside towns, as well as multiple historical sites and art galleries to check out.
Here are some of the city’s must-see attractions:
The English Market
Blarney Castle & Gardens
Blarney Castle is a medieval castle in Blarney, near Cork, Ireland
Cork Butter Museum
St. Patrick’s Street
Shandon Bells & Tower St. Anne’s Church
St. George’s, Grenada
Being the capital city of the beautiful Caribbean island of Grenada, St. George’s is home to the historical 18th-century Fort George – where visitors can take in breathtaking views of the island and its surroundings.
And, for those who have an interest in history, the Grenada National Museum is also located in St. George’s – which was built in the late 1700s.
There are also a selection of half and full-day tours that can be enjoyed in – and around – the city of St. George’s.
Here are some of the city’s must-see attractions:
Fort George
The Diamond Chocolate Factory
Rum Distilleries Tour
Snorkeling Trip to Underwater Sculpture Park
Half or Full-day Island Tour
Oaxaca, Mexico
Being the capital – and biggest city of the Mexican state of Oaxaca – Oaxaca City is a fascinating place to explore for those seeking something that is a bit more ‘off the beaten path’.
Featuring stunningly-beautiful churches – and offering museum enthusiasts the opportunity to learn so much about this truly fascinating Mexican city – Oaxaca is certainly not to be missed when heading to Mexico.
And, although Oaxaca’s nightlife may not be quite as lively as popular tourist hotspots – such as Cancun and Tijuana – there are a sufficient number of trendy bars to enjoy some late-night entertainment at.
Here are some of the city’s must-see attractions:
Zona Arqueológica de Monte Albán
Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca
Templo de Santo Domingo church and cathedral in Oaxaca city Oaxaca Mexico
Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán
Mercado 20 de Noviembre
Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca
Pécs, Hungary
Situated close to the border of Croatia, Pécs is an ancient city in the southern region of Hungary.
Famous for being home to some of Hungary’s most iconic architectural landmarks – including the Pécs Cathedral and Mosque of Pasha Qasim – Pécs is, without doubt, a great choice for those who enjoy learning about a city’s history and culture.
Pécs is around three hours from the nation’s capital – Budapest – where visitors can take a relaxing and comfortable train journey directly to this calm city.
Here are some of the city’s must-see attractions:
Pécs Cathedral
Mosque of Pasha Qasim
Early Christian Mausoleum
Zsolnay Museum
Gallery of Modern Hungarian Art
Bucharest, Romania
Located in the south of the country, Bucharest is the capital city – and commercial hub – of Romania.
With its rich history, Bucharest is certainly an interesting choice when it comes to European cities – with it playing home to the world’s biggest parliamentary building, the Palace of Parliament.
While a bustling – but also entertaining – city, Bucharest offers a lively nightlife scene, with a wide variety of bars, clubs, and even rooftop bars to explore.
And, there’s no doubt that Bucharest is also a great choice when it comes to traveling on a budget – especially compared to other cities in Western Europe – with Romania being known as one of the most budget-friendly destinations in the region.
Here are some of the city’s must-see attractions:
Muzeul Naţional al Satului “Dimitrie Gusti”
Palace of Parliament
Herăstrau Park
Lipscani (Old Town)
Ceaușescu Mansion
Kraków, Poland
Kraków – situated in the south, and bordering Czech Republic – is Poland’s second-largest city.
It also has what is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful old towns – known as Stare Miasto – that you are likely to come across.
Here you will find luscious parks, a wide variety of traditional Polish eateries, accommodation – as well as the truly fascinating Wawel Royal Castle, which hosts a museum and cathedral.
Kraków’s old town also features a main square – Rynek Główny – which holds the title of being Europe’s largest medieval marketplace.
You will also find a selection of entertainment spots to spend the evening time – with a variety of pubs, craft beer bars and venues playing live jazz music.
Here are some of the city’s must-see attractions:
Rynek Główny (Main Square)
Wawel Royal Castle
Stare Miasto (Old Town)
St. Mary’s Basilica
Kazimierz The Former Jewish District
Bath, United Kingdom
Being the county of Somerset’s biggest city, Bath is situated in the valley of the River Avon in the United Kingdom.
Taking its name from the Roman-built baths, which feature in the city, Bath is one of the most beautifully-picturesque places in England.
With it only being a 90-minute train journey from the country’s capital – London – Bath features in the Unesco World Heritage’s list of ‘Great Spa Towns of Europe’.
Visitors to the city can enjoy a soothing and relaxing walk through its canal towpath – which is also a great spot for those looking for a great cycle route.
And, if you are looking to take a walk in some beautiful grounds, you can do so at the visually-beautiful historical Royal Victoria Park – which originally opened in 1830.
Here are some of the city’s must-see attractions:
The Roman Baths
Thermae Bath Spa
Bath Abbey
Pulteney Bridge
Royal Crescent
While the above list of 12 cities gives eager travelers some great ideas of restriction-free places to explore this summer, you can make your own ‘a la carte’ itinerary by choosing cities in the below countries that have no entry rules.
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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
Ready to get back out there? Entry requirements and mask mandates are dropping in many parts of the world and tourists are being welcomed back as we go forward in 2022.
These destinations have eliminated their entry restrictions for travelers, including mask mandates. If you’re looking to plan a spring or summer getaway, find out more about what these destinations have lots to offer.
From exploring the idyllic coastline of Galway, Ireland, to soak up some sun, culture, and food in San Juan, Puerto Rico, here are 10 amazing cities where you can visit mask-free.
Victoria, British Columbia
The weather is warming up and beautiful British Columbia is open and ready to be explored. Head over to Vancouver Island and get to know the capital city of Victoria.
The province dropped its mask mandate this month, and proof of vaccination to access a number of services will only be required until April 8th. And as of April 1st, pre-departure Covid tests will no longer be required from all international arrivals to Canada.
The spring and summer months means it’s the perfect time to stroll Victoria’s beautiful waterfront, the Inner Harbour. This is a great starting point for exploring downtown Victoria – go shopping, wander through the boutiques and restaurants and even stop by the iconic Empress Hotel. To end the day, head over to Red Fish Blue Fish (a local favorite) for a big plate of fish and chips.
Galway, Ireland
Fall in love with small-town Ireland in the coastal city of Galway. Ireland removed its entry requirements and people are hopping on the first flight to Dublin, Ireland. Upon arriving in the capital it’s a straight drive west along the highway to Galway, where you’ll find some of the prettiest landscapes in all of Ireland.
Start your Galway trip at Eyre Square, the heart of the city, before venturing off to the other parts of town. Here you can experience quintessential Irish culture: listen to folk music at a local pub, wander the historic streets and explore the stone castles and cathedrals. After a few blissful days you’ll be wondering why you never visited Galway before.
And if you’re looking for some of those “hidden gems”, this local website has some great insider tips for you.
Bucharest, Romania
Often overlooked by other Balkan countries, Romania has a lot to offer an intrepid traveler like yourself. And with entry requirements removed for international visitors consider a trip to Bucharest, the charming capital city of Romania.
Whatever you want to do on your trip, know that Bucharest is packed with experiences. Whether it’s history, culture or nightlife, you can do it all here. One of the top things to do in the city is to join a food tour where you can explore some of Bucharest’s old neighborhoods, sample some of the best eats at a local market, and just get a sense of the city’s history through food (and what better way is there, really?)
Bucharest is also becoming a popular city with digital nomads, so if you can work remotely and want to take a longer trip here, consider looking into Romania’s digital nomad visa.
Bath, England
Consistently rated one of the prettiest cities in the country, Bath is a city with a long history and amazing attractions for travelers. To get here, it’s just a 1.5-hour train ride or a two-drive drive west of London towards the Bristol Channel.
The top things to do in Bath, hence the name, is to visit the Roman-built baths. Built almost 2000 years ago, you can visit these ancient spas, the changing rooms, the connecting hot spring and museum all on a day trip. There’s so much beauty here that you’ll see why it’s listed as a UNESCO Heritage Site.
Nice, France
With travel restrictions relaxed throughout the Republic, there’s no better time to explore the incomparable beauty of the French Riviera.
After you’ve gotten your fix of museums and bustling marchés, head to Cave de la Tour, one of Nice’s oldest wine bars. Order some appetizers and just soak in the atmosphere of a sunny afternoon in the south of France. Ready to splurge? Book a hotel by the waterfront and you’ll be in paradise (and might never want to leave!).
Wondering what there is to do in the capital city of Copenhagen? Plenty. From the kid-friendly Tivoli Gardens, to museums and fine-dining, Copenhagen provides an unforgettable vacation experience.
When visiting the city, make sure to explore the CopenHot spa. This unique spa experience has wooden tubs and saunas overlooking the city’s habourfront. You can book the whole sauna with your travel buddies, or you can even sail the canal on a spa boat!
Oranjestad, Aruba
Just last week, Aruba became the 16th country to remove all entry requirements for incoming travelers. While travel medical insurance and filling out an embarkation/disembarkation card is still required, other travel restrictions have been scrapped on the island.
According to the VisitAruba website, wearing a mask is no longer mandatory at private businesses like restaurants and shops unless it’s required at the establishment’s discretion.
Aruba’s colorful capital city of Oranjestad is your perfect introduction Aruba. Being a Dutch colony, this is the place to admire all of the impressive colonial architecture – just wander the enchanting little streets and take it all in. Then, take a stroll along the waterfront and indulge at one of Oranjestad’s best seafood restaurants.
For the ultimate in beach vibes, Barefoot Restaurant is highly recommended for sunset and Lima Bistro for some of the island’s best fine-dining. Traveling with kids? Take them to Surfside Beach right in the center of town before exploring of this Caribbean island paradise.
San Juan, Puerto Rico USA
Entry requirements have been lifted in Puerto Rico and masks are no longer required at most indoor and outdoor establishments.
Take a vacation that mixes culture and calm in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Here in the capital city you can experience the fascinating history and delicious food before heading to the beach to laze the afternoon away. Even though you’ll be in close proximity to the city, some of Puerto Rico’s best beaches are actually near San Juan. Some favorites include Escambron Beach and La Playita del Condado.
Santa Fe, New Mexico USA
The American Southwest is calling! New Mexico scrapped its indoor mask mandate in February and all businesses are now operating t 100% capacity. That being said, there’s no better time to plan a little adventure to scenic Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Beyond the Georgia O’Keefe Museum and weekend artisan markets (as amazing as they are), Santa Fe, New Mexico offers a variety of things to do in see. Join a walking tour, head to the spa and explore the food scene in downtown Santa Fe to sample some of the best flavors of northern New Mexico. For an outdoor excursion, book a river rafting trip or go on an early morning hike to one of the top hiking trails nearby.
Stockholm, Sweden
Sweden recently became the 22nd country to drop all entry requirements for international travelers, including tourists from the US and Canada. And all internal restrictions throughout the country were scrapped last month, so book your flights to the capital city of Stockholm for a new adventure.
A walkable Old Town, live music, art, history and more – take your pick here in Stockholm. And after two years of restrictions, who’s ready for some festivals? Check out this calendar of the city’s top events and festivals scheduled for the spring and summer.
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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
