Tag: Country

Why Moldova Should Not Be Europe’s Least Visited Country
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Landlocked in Eastern Europe between Romania and Ukraine lies an under-appreciated country that doesn’t get enough attention. Ranking last in Europe’s tourism numbers, Moldova simply deserves better. Especially during unprecedented times when “Eastern Europe” and “Ukraine” can be trigger words used to entice fear given the ongoing attacks from Russia.

Contrary to popular belief, Moldova is safe. It is unique. It is a place that should be explored and appreciated for standing firm in its identity. Moldova doesn’t need the glitz and glamour to become an attractive destination to travelers.

The Ever-Evolving Capitol: A Gateway Into Moldova

Tourism numbers have always been on the low end for this country, but it doesn’t have to be that way. More airlines are beginning to fly here to the capital, Chisinau, making it more accessible than ever for those willing to give Moldova a chance.

Chisinau is the biggest city in the country, with remnants of its Soviet past everywhere. Keyword: past.

There is no active threat to travel here as it relates to their neighboring country’s war. Chisinau has an interesting reputation even without travelers’ hesitation to visit. It would be hard to argue that the city is different than one might expect when they envision Europe. Visitors will not see a lot of color or pizzazz. That’s just not how Moldova rolls.

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When you are the poorest nation on the continent, you appreciate what you have. That is what makes Moldova exceptionally beautiful.

The capital city has undergone many identities since its independence in 1990. Worth a visit all on its own; exploring Chisinau is not about getting the perfect selfie or eating picture-perfect food. It’s about getting a local feel of Moldovan life to gain a new perspective.
- Check out a variety of museums, such as art and history
- Take a walk through one of many parks to choose from
- Visit the local market
- Go to a cafe
Moldova Comes Alive At Night

Like any other major city, one might hear the background noise of car horns, dogs barking, or sirens every so often. Other than that, Chisinau is relatively quiet most days.

That changes when the sun goes down. This is where travelers might feel as though they’re in Europe again. Chisinau can go toe to toe with any European city that knows how to party.

@hype_withus We just wanna have a good night 🥳🍾 #hypewithus #nightclub #ночнойклуб #хайп #chisinaumoldova #кишинёв #party #молдова #fyp #рекомендации #capcut ♬ Players – DJ Smallz 732 – Jersey Club Remix – Coi Leray

New bars, restaurants, and clubs are packed on weekends near the historic city center. Whether visitors are looking to pull an all-nighter fist-pumping to local DJs or just show off their karaoke skills, there is something for everyone.

Get Outside The City Life

Moldova is home to multiple monasteries an hour outside Chisinau, the most popular being the gorgeous Old Orhei, which also has caves kept mostly intact to display the history of monks in the region. This place is surrounded by beautiful scenery of the countryside where recent travelers rave its “magical” and “definitely worth a visit”.

There is also the Hancu Monastery, as well as the Capriana Monastery, a 15th century time capsule where recent visitors noted the cleanliness and preservation of such an important piece of history.

Never-ending Wine

Possibly Moldova’s greatest attraction and best-kept secret are the various options to get a taste of locally produced wine.

In fact, Moldova is home to the largest underground wine cellar in the world!

There are 142 wineries spread across the country, but not all of them offer tours to the public.

One of the more popular wineries is known as Milestii Mici. Designed like a fortress from the outside and a wine paradise on the inside, wine enthusiasts will not be disappointed coming here! Travelers say tours are provided in English (if needed), and the full-course meal that’s included is a perfect pairing with the wine.

@themanwhosawtheworld I’m not gonna say it’s real wine BUT I’m not gonna say it’s not either 🍷 #wine #vino #winecountry #winecountrytour #moldova #chisinau #discover #trynewthings #winetasting #booze #alcohol #howisthisreal #isthisreal #explore #wineo #redwine #milestiimici ♬ Rehab – Amy Winehouse

Another popular winery is Cricova, just 30 minutes north of the capital. Cricova is also an underground cellar where recent wine tasters describe it as “phenomenal” and were really impressed with the customer service.

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February 4, 2023
Why Albania Is The Best European Country For American Nomads In 2023
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After being dismissed as Europe’s underdog for decades, Albania is surging in popularity as the top digital nomad hub in the continent for 2023: remote workers from the U.S. have been flocking to the nation in record numbers, and in this article, we will finally explain why.

Europe is the preferred destination for American nomads seeking a better quality of life and culture, especially Western countries like Spain and Italy, but now that they are facing energy crises and rising prices, attention has slowly begun to shift from West to East.

Fortunately for remote workers and budget travelers alike, the Shqiptar heartland has remained largely shielded from the latest economic upheaval, and it has taken a firm stance against unnecessary visa bureaucracies:

Albania Is Growing Shockingly Fast

Out of all European countries that are offering long-term permits, the one that’s stealing the show is Albania, a previously unheard-of Balkan state that was off-limits to tourists up until the early nineties, the reason for that being a communist regime that was eventually toppled as pro-democracy movements advanced across Europe.

Very few foreigners were allowed to enter Albania — and an even fewer number of Albanians were allowed to leave — as the dictatorship ensured the country remained isolated from the rest of the world. In the meantime, other Mediterranean competitors flourished as tourism hubs, leaving a soon-to-reopen Albania no option but to clumsily try and catch up in modernizing its economy.

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Fast forward thirty years since democratization, and it’s evolved a lot since the first post-Communist decade, plagued by unreliable pyramid schemes and widespread anarchy. It may not be as developed as some of its closest neighbors, namely Croatia or Greece, but it is treading an impressive path to recovery many in the European elite could only dream of.

According to data shared by both Instat and Eurostat and later compiled by Monitor magazine, almost 3.6 million stays were fulfilled in Albania throughout 2022, a 22.8 percent increase from 2021, in stark contrast with the European Union, which has registered an average of 5.6 percent decrease in tourist rentals, short or long-term, during this period.

Essentially, Albania had the highest increase in stays in the entire continent last year, shortly followed by Serbia (21.3%). The other top five entries, Denmark (12.3%), Iceland (5%), and Norway (2.5%), all recorded less-than-impressive growth. In total, 7.1 million foreigners visited in 2022, surpassing the previous record year of 2019 by 17%.

Why Is Albania So Popular All Of A Sudden?

Albania has always been a sleeper hit waiting to happen:

It Is Shockingly Cheap

It straddles the same Adriatic coastline shared by Croatia, Montenegro, and Western Greece, directly facing Italy on the opposite peninsula, and boasts the same Mediterranean weather and nature, and in spite of being cornered on all sides by world-renowned tourist destinations – pretty expensive ones, at that – it is shockingly cheap.

Comparing the cost of living between the main capital cities in the Balkan region, consumer prices in Tirana, Albania are:
- 5.2% lower than Belgrade, Serbia
- 6.7% lower than Bucharest, Romania
- 11.7% lower than Sofia, Bulgaria
- 21.7% lower than Zagreb, Croatia
- 26.1% lower than Ljubljana, Slovenia
- 32.6% lower than Athens, Greece
All of the countries above, perhaps with the exception of Croatia and Greece, are famous among backpackers for their historically low prices, yet Albania succeeds in being even more affordable than any of those listed. In order to live comfortably as a digital nomad in Tirana, with some level of luxury, Americans would need, on average, US$2,452 per month.

This includes renting a centrally-located, fully-furnished apartment, dining out in mid-range restaurants frequently, grocery hauls, and weekend escapades to the resort-packed coastline. In New York, you would need to budget at least US$9,000 to safeguard the same standards of living or higher that you could enjoy in Albania while spending roughly 70% less.

To put it plainly, it’s a steal of a deal.

Zero Border Bureaucracy

On top of its affordability, Albania is also open for tourism and business as usual, having removed all Covid entry requirements and offering bureaucracy-free, one-year stays – that is, when you’re a U.S. citizen. You read that right: Americans can relocate to Albania for up to twelve months visa-free, a privilege not extended to Canadians or even Europeans.

With such a relaxed entry policy and easy route to permanent residency, it’s barely surprising most nomads would rank Albania as their number one dream country for a long-term ‘workcation’. There is more:

Albanian Nature Is Simply Jaw-Dropping

It is getting increasingly popular for its jaw-dropping display of natural scenery. Up North, close to the borders with Kosovo and Montenegro, it is traversed by the menacing Accursed Mountains, a vast range comprised of rugged, snow-capped peaks, vertiginous mountainside drives, and deep, lush green valleys.

Traveling South, the geography changes drastically from alpine to coastal: the country’s sea access runs for 280 miles between the Montenegrin border all the way down to Greece, and we may argue it is one of the most scenic drives and beautiful sections of the cross-border Adriatic route, lined by quaint stone-built villages and ancient historic fortresses.

The Albanian Riviera is, in fact, one of the top-rated relaxation spots in the wider Balkan Peninsula. Stretching from the modern, fast-developing city of Vlore to the Greco-Albanian, multicultural Sarande, a stone’s throw away from Corfu, it has golden sand beaches, turquoise waters, and up-and-coming resort zones that are worth checking out.

Visit Albania For Culture

Lastly, Albania is becoming a household name in the Culture department:
- Towns like Berat and Gjirokaster have been acknowledged by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites for their unspoiled Ottoman architecture
- Tirana is a sprawling metropolis littered with Communist-era bunkers and dark tourism spots known for their off-path appeal and edginess
- Castles galore: massive hilltop forts, cobblestone citadels and medieval sites yet to be ruined by the Game of Thrones overtourism effect are spread across the country
- It occasionally hosts pop music festivals headlined by Dua Lipa, Rita Ora, and other major acts of Albanian heritage
- After decades of being suppressed, the urban art scene is booming, with the quality of the murals in Tirana rivaling those of Belfast or Berlin
Albania is super trendy right now, and if you want in on the secret before everyone else, you better make your way there fast.

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January 25, 2023
Why This Underrated European Country Should Be On Your Bucket List This Year

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When you picture crystal-clear blue waters, white sand beaches, quaint historic towns, and stunning natural scenery, which European country comes to mind?

Maybe you answered Italy, Greece, or Croatia.

Albania may not have come to mind at all, but this Balkan country is one of the most underrated destinations in Europe that offers all of the above and more.

Here’s why Albania should be on your bucket list this year:

1) Incredible Beaches

One of the top reasons to visit Albania this summer is for its amazing beaches.

Located on the Adriatic Sea, Albania’s beaches are among the best-kept secrets in Europe. While they are widely visited by locals and tourists from other Balkan countries, Albania’s beaches are still largely off the radar for most other tourists.

However, they are some of the best beaches in Europe, with white sand beaches and clear turquoise-blue waters.

Sarande is a resort town known for its beach parties and nightlife, while Ksamil and Borsh Beach are known for their stunning natural beauty.

2) A Cool Capital City

Albania’s capital city Tirana is extremely cool, hip, and funky. It’s a hodgepodge of striking architecture, a mixture of modern design and Communist-era buildings.

The city was named the European Youth Capital of 2022 because of its rapid growth and its youthful, vibrant spirit. Tirana is a city that’s constantly in flux and changing by the day.

There are so many reasons to visit Tirana, and this city offers something for everyone, including foodies, history fanatics, and party lovers.

3) Quaint Historic Towns

Although Tirana is a great city to visit, the real charm of Albania lies in its quaint historic towns.

Berat, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most striking historic towns in the country due to its nickname of “The City of a Thousand Windows.”

Gjirokastra is another beautiful ancient town that is known as “The City of a Thousand Steps” due to its many stone stairs and hilly landscape.

4) Affordable Prices

One of the best parts of Albania is how affordable it is. It’s a great destination for budget travelers, or luxury travelers who want to travel in style in a destination where their money goes much further.

While many popular destinations in Europe, such as Italy, France, and Greece are extremely pricy, countries in the Balkan region can be shocking cheap, and Albania is among the cheapest of all.

Even other once-affordable Balkan countries like Croatia are experiencing skyrocketing prices this year, making Albania a refreshing alternative.

5) Friendly People

One of the biggest highlights of all in Albania is the people. Albanians are extremely friendly and hospitable.

You’ll be blown away by the level of hospitality that is shown by Albanians. Even if there’s a bit of a language barrier (English is not widely spoken, especially among the older generations in Albania), people will go out of their way to help you in any way that they can.

Unlike some other European destinations like Italy that are flooded with American tourists, Albania has not experienced much of that yet, and you don’t have to worry about being scammed or ripped off.

6) Relaxed Visa Rules

Albania is an emerging destination for digital nomads in Europe because of its sunny climate, affordable prices, great places to base yourself, and relaxed visa rules.

Americans can spend up to one year in Albania without a visa. This makes it very attractive for digital nomads and long-term travelers.

It’s one of the few countries in Europe that still offers long stays for American travelers hoping to reset their Schengen visas after nearby Croatia joined the Schengen Zone.

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January 12, 2023
Why This Caribbean Country Is Breaking Tourism Records
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The Caribbean is a popular destination for Americans with so many islands to choose from, each offering its own unique appeal, but one country is breaking records and beating visitor numbers more than ever before.

Grenada is becoming a more popular destination for Americans, who account for more than 60% of visitors. This is helped by its proximity to the United States, which is a five-and-a-half-hour flight, regular flight itineraries to get travelers to the island, and an attractive digital nomad visa program.

This small island country had a stand-out November, accepting over 14,000 visitors which was the highest-ever total of visitors on record, and December is projected to stay on track for breaking the record for the same period in 2019.

“We continue to build our brand equity so that travelers keep Grenada in their consideration set of destinations they want to visit,” said Petra Roach, CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority. “We are laser focused on attracting visitors who want to take advantage of our safe environment, numerous community initiatives and who want to get out and about.”

Why Is Grenada Popular For Tourists?

Crystal-clear waters, rainforest trekking, pristine landscapes, aromatic spices, and friendly people are just some of the reasons that attract visitors to this beautiful and safe destination – not to mention its continuous balmy temperatures with an average of 82 Fahrenheit. This oval-shaped island measures only 13 square miles, which means you could drive around the island in under six hours, but you’ll be distracted to stop by all the beautiful views and attractions along the way.

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Due to its history, Grenada has some interesting cultural influences since the British took over control of the French in the 1700s, so the country has a mixture of Amerindian, French, and English customs. You’ll find this, particularly in its cuisine, which reflects a variety of different cultures, such as its national dish – Oil Down, which is a salted meat and vegetable stew. You’ll also come across the heavy French influence as seen by the names of places and people’s last names, making this a diverse city to explore and witness its many customs.

What Are The Best Things To Do In Grenada
- Swim In Its Glorious Beaches: with over 45 different beaches to explore, each consisting of fine white sand, clear waters, and beautiful views, you’ll find it hard to choose between them. Grand Anse beach is a favorite among tourists, due to its long stretches of perfect sands with gorgeous views and offerings of water sports, such as water skiing, parasailing, or kayaking.
- Discover Its Underwater Sculptures: Grenada was home to the world’s first underwater sculpture park and contains 75 sculptures to either get up close and personal via snorkeling or scuba diving or view from a glass bottom boat. Installations include an underwater Jesus Christ, children holding hands, a newspaperman, and more.
- Search For The Best Waterfall: Amongst Grenada’s rainforests, you’ll discover some breathtaking hidden gems – waterfalls. From the Seven Sisters waterfalls that create a large pool for swimming to Mount Carmel Falls which drops water 100 feet down a sharp edge, many of these waterfalls require some beautiful hikes through the jungle, which gives you an opportunity to see the local fauna and wildlife.
- Learn About Grenada’s Agriculture: Belmont Estate is a popular tourist attraction that allows you to learn about Grenada’s agriculture scene, such as a tree-to-bar craft chocolate experience, a tour through its organic farm as well as a farm-to-table meal at its restaurant. Grenada wouldn’t be complete without a spice tour of its different spices, such as cloves, mace, and cinnamon, as well as a tour of its river Antoine Rum Distillery to taste some local rum.
- Taste-Test The Delicious Cuisine: from checking out the best barbecue joints firing up the fish, pork, and chicken to tasting authentic Caribbean food at the local restaurants, there’s a long list of flavorful food you’ll have to try in Grenada, which has been dubbed Spice Island.
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January 4, 2023
This Beautiful Southeast Asian Country Has Lifted All Travel Restrictions Returning To Normal Tourism
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Another Southeast Asian destination has lifted all Covid requirements returning to normal ahead of 2023. With immediate effect, Americans are no longer be subject to strict health controls traveling to Laos which is one of the most beautiful, and awe-inspiring countries in the sub-continent.

After sealing itself off from the rest of the world for most of the pandemic, Southeast Asia began to timidly reopen for tourism earlier this year as Covid cases dwindled. Fast forward a few months, and foreigners are welcome across a majority of states without restrictions or any border formalities, making it one of the easiest regions in the world to travel.

Luckily for the unvaccinated, the reopening trend is showing no signs of slowing down, even after the latest viral surge arising from China:

The Only Landlocked Country In Southeast Asia Is Lifting All Border Restrictions

2 years and 9 months after the World Health Organization issued a historical declaration confirming Covid as a pandemic, prompting numerous countries across the globe to shut down in response and clamp down on leisure travel, the small and gorgeous, but often overlooked nation of Laos is finally ready to reinstate normality.

Similarly to its closest neighbors, namely Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam, the only landlocked country in Southeast Asia decided to fully abolish all health-related border mandates on December 28, in the lead up to the New Year – it turns out Kayak editors were right when they boldly claimed that 2023 would be a ‘comeback year‘ for Asia, after all…

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Entering Laos in 2023, Americans and all other incoming passengers will no longer be required to present a vaccination card, nor undergo testing prior to departure when failing to qualify as fully immunized. Additionally, all on-arrival and post-arrival testing policies applying to the latter group have been canceled, ending months of vaccine discrimination.

Lastly, there are no quarantine requirements upon arrival to Laos, as the country has done away with all special provisions pertaining to the health crisis that had remained in force throughout 2022. Effectively, we’re witnessing a return to 2019 entry guidelines, including the reinstatement of visa-waiver agreements and visas on-arrival.

Do Americans Need A Visa To Enter Laos?

In short, yes, but the visa application process couldn’t be simpler.

American citizens can travel to Laos without requesting a visa in advance, but they must apply for one upon landing at one of the authorized points of entry, such as the Wattay International Airport. Applications are made on-site and tourist visas are normally issued for 30 days for a fee of USD $35, though they may be extended for a further 60 days upon request.

Alternatively, U.S. passport holders are eligible to apply for an e-Visa before departure through the official website, in order to avoid unnecessary queuing at the airport. Other than visa procedures and carrying a passport valid for at least six months, tourists are exempt from presenting any health declaration, or disclosing their vaccination status.

In sum, all of the below applies to international travelers arriving in Laos:
- No mandatory vaccination
- No pre-departure, on-arrival, or post-arrival testing
- No health declaration forms to be completed prior to flying
- No quarantine
Within the country, some Covid measures are still enforced, such as social distancing and mask wearing in certain premises, though the severity of requirements may vary across the country depending on infection levels. Once in Laos, foreigners are advised to follow all rules set out by local authorities, even when travel restrictions have been lifted.

Before the reopening, only fully vaccinated travelers were allowed to enter Laos test-free. The unvaccinated were required to undergo an ATK (Antigen) test 48 hours before departure. Since December 28, however, all travelers are treated equally irrespective of immunization status, nationality, and country of departure.

Is Laos Worth Visiting?

Despite its lack of sea access and colder temperatures, Laos is a Southeast Asian gem deserving of your attention. A mountainous territory rich in nature and famous for its distinct multi-cultural character, torn between centuries-old Buddhist traditions and the legacy of French colonialism, it can be a surprising, and rather unusual, cultural destination for 2023.

We like unusual.

Vientiane, the capital, is home to the That Luang monument, where Buddha’s breastbone is reportedly kept, French-inspired architecture and communist-era landmarks. Elsewhere in the tiny country, visitors will find grand waterfalls, river islands, elephant reserves, and a quaint, sparsely-populated countryside virtually unspoiled by mankind.

Lastly, Laos is a country packed with historical ruins and pilgrimage sites. One of the holiest is Wat Phu, a UNESCO-protected archaeological complex dating back to the 5th century and originally built as a Hindu temple. Today, it is open for tourists for a negligible fee of 50,000 LAK, or only US $2.88, and it is totally worth the two-and-a-half journey from Vientiane.

More information about tourist activities in Laos, as well as visa requirements, can be found here.

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December 30, 2022
This Is The Safest Country To Travel In Latin America
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Safety remains a primary concern for Americans traveling in the Southern Hemisphere, especially in places where neither local customs, nor the language feel familiar and scamming culture is widespread. However, there is one country where risks aren’t as high, and that has been deemed the safest to travel in Latin America.

The geopolitical group remains a major tourist destination as a whole: whether it’s a beach getaway closer to home in Mexico’s stunning Riviera Maya, or a prolonged city break in the Wonderful City of Rio, in Brazil, Latin America is full of wonders and beautiful off path places ready to be discovered.

On the downside, those visiting these countries are usually advised to be more ‘cautious’ as crime rates are usually high.

What Are Some Of The World’s Safest Destinations?

This year’s edition of the Global Peace Index (GPI) ranked 163 independent countries and territories based on their ‘level of peacefulness’. The study makes use of 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators from ‘highly respected sources’ and takes into account three main ‘domains’ in measuring peace:
- The level of ‘Societal Safety and Security’
- The extent of any ‘Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict’
- The degree of Militarization
These factors contribute directly to the perception of tourism safety – when locals themselves feel crime levels in their home cities are low, visitors have no reason to worry themselves. As expected, the safest continent with the highest score of safety markers remains Europe, headed by the insular nation of Iceland, the most peaceful in the world.

Iceland is one of the few counties to have secured the nearly unattainable blue badge from the U.S. Department of State, meaning it is placed at the lowest possible Level 1 Travel Advisory. Touring Iceland, Americans should ‘exercise normal precautions’. Other countries in the top ten include New Zealand, in the runner-up slot, Ireland, Denmark and Austria.

Image by IPE Global Peace Index

Conversely, the countries with the lowest scores this year are Afghanistan, having held the title for five consecutive years now, Yemen, Syria, Russia, largely due to its aggressive campaign against neighboring Ukraine, and South Sudan. In sum, the ‘State of Peace’ across different countries has been classified according to the categorization below:
- Very high (Dark green)
- High (Light green)
- Medium (Yellow)
- Low (Orange)
- Very low (Red)
- Not included (Gray)
And The Most Peaceful Latin American Country This Year Is…

Out of 33 Latin American and Caribbean countries, only four achieved at least a ‘light green’ certification, those being Chile, Uruguay, Panama and the highest-peaking Costa Rica. With an overall safety score of 1.732, up 0.017 points from last year’s index, Costa Rica is officially the safest destination within the collective.

In the global ranking, it is the 38th most peaceful country, beating other American competitors like Mexico and even United States by a large margin. To draw a comparison, these North American giants are ranked 129th and 137th, respectively, being assigned an ‘orange’, or ‘low safety’ badge.

The U.S. and Mexico share this sub-optimal status with nations like Brazil, Turkey, Colombia and Israel.

Back to Costa Rica, it sits behind only Canada (12th globally) in the Americas, charting 26 slots lower. In Central America, it is the country where Americans will feel the most secure – this is part of the reason why it has become so popular among young backpackers in recent months, being crowned a regional tourism leader.

This year’s GPI does note there has been a ‘deterioration’ in peacefulness, attributed to an increase in violent demonstration, importation of weapons, rising crime rates and political instability, but Costa Rica maintains a good score both on the Militarization and Ongoing Conflict fronts, faring a lot better than its counterparts in that respect.

What You Should Know Ahead Of Visiting Costa Rica

Currently, there are no Covid entry requirements for Americans traveling to Costa Rica. They are allowed to enter regardless of being vaccinated and no pre-departure testing rule, or post-arrival testing/quarantine applies. It is one of a handful of Latin American countries where these restrictions have been axed for good.

The U.S. Department of State advises Americans to exercise ‘increased caution‘ in Costa Rica, the exact same advice applying to a number of traditionally safe European and North American destinations. The entity specifically lists pickpocketing and theft as ‘common crimes‘, though the vast majority of visits to Costa Rica are completely trouble-free.

The U.K. Home Office, an equivalent to the U.S. Department of State, notes Costa Rica has a ‘low murder rate‘ than its neighbors’, despite being high compared to the United Kingdom. Even then, tourists should maintain the ‘same level of personal security awareness’ as in Britain, where theft of personal items and mugging is also a problem.

Read More:

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

Costa Rica Officially Launches New Digital Nomad Visa With Simple Process

New Tourism Route To Launch Between The Dominican Republic, Costa Rica and Panama

Caribbean Destinations With No Restrictions This Fall & Winter

Top 10 Off The Beaten Path Sun Destinations For U.S. Travelers This Winter

This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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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
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September 12, 2022
This Is The Only Country In South America That Has Dropped All Travel Restrictions
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Following a relatively free summer and the waning of Covid, it might seem like the world has finally moved on from the pandemic and strict mandates are a thing of the past. This may be the case for most of Europe, Mexico and the like, but it is definitely not yet a reality in South America, where only a single country has dropped all travel restrictions.

For more than two years, the Southern Hemisphere has barred international travel in an attempt to keep variants from getting imported from abroad. Despite enjoying a robust protection, with countries like Brazil being world leaders in vaccination coverage, the region has continued to refuse entry to certain categories of travelers.

Most notably, unvaccinated Americans, with the exception of one:

Most Of South America Is Still Closed To Unvaccinated Americans

South America is an incredibly vast, and culturally diverse continent that for decades has attracted American tourists due to its high affordability and natural landmarks. Sadly, for the better part of 2022, a huge percentage of Americans, roughly 30%, is still prevented from returning based on their vaccination status.

Nearly every single South American country continues to impose a vaccine requirement at their external entry points, be it land crossings, airports or cruise terminals. Out of twelve, only one has mirrored the steps of Central American counterparts and Europe when it became the 27th country to return to their pre-2020 entry guidelines: Argentina*.

*The territory of French Guiana is free of restrictions, but as it is not a sovereign entity, being an integral part of France, in spite of being in South America, it is not taken into account

Argentina is the first in Mercosur, and on an extent in South America, to lift the pandemic-era restrictions affecting American travelers and other foreign visitors. As soon as April 2022, the home of Tango abandoned its hard-stance approach, which had made it into a completely isolated nation for a period, in favor of much more relaxed policies.

Argentina Has Been The Only South American Country To Drop All Restrictions So Far

Prior to that date, even Mercosur citizens, a bloc of which Argentina is a part of and where freedom of movement applies, had been barred from crossing the border. Now, any foreigner can enter Argentina, irrespective of their purpose of travel, and with no other requirement than a valid passport and/or visa when applicable.

For Americans, this effectively means:
- No vaccination required
- No boosters needed
- No pre-departure tests
- No post-arrival tests
- No quarantine
Conversely, all of Argentina’s neighbors remain ‘partially restrictive’, according to IATA’s Covid-19 Travel Regulations Map. Much like the EU in the earlier days of the crisis, Mercosur and its associated members have failed to coordinate actions in both introducing, and removing pandemic measures, leading to a confusing patchwork of rules.

European states, on the other hand, have worked through their differences and now a majority is open for travel. Below the Equator line, this level of cross-border harmonization has not been achieved as of this point. The most obvious disparity is seen between Brazil and Argentina, South America’s closest neighbors and top destinations.

The Confusing Patchwork Of Rules Affecting Tourists In The Region

While Argentina is open, Brazil only allows American visitors with proof of vaccination. A negative PCR or rapid antigen test, or even recovery certificates, are not considered valid proof of entry, though in Uruguay, bordering Southern Brazil, unvaccinated U.S. citizens are permitted to enter when presenting a negative test within 72 hours of departure.

Moving West, Paraguay accepts all of the above, on top of positive Covid tests (antigen, LAMP, NAAT or PCR) issued ‘at least 10 days and at most 90 days before boarding’. On the Pacific Coast, Chile accepts both vaccine certificates and PCRs not older than 48 hours, and travelers remain subject to testing on arrival, a controversial policy also enacted by Canada.

North of Chile, the Inca heartland of Peru, a favorite among hikers, has similar provisions, except it does not test tourists randomly upon landing. Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela and Suriname all follow the ‘vaccine or test’ model, while Guyana – not the French one – mimics Brazil in banning those who are not fully immunized.

Other regional discrepancies include:
- In Peru, tests must be of the NAAT kind, including RT-PCRs and RTLamps, and they must not be older than 48 hours
- Bolivia accepts PCR test results issued within 72 hours of departure, or Rapid Antigen tests taken at most 48 hours before boarding
- In Colombia, besides the 72-hour/48-hour rules for PCR and Rapid Antigen respectively, passengers must submit their personal information online via the Check Mig form ahead of traveling
- Venezuela imposes a validity date of 270 days on two-dose certificates, requiring tourists to present proof of a booster dose once this period has elapsed in order to be granted entry on the grounds of being immunized
- Venezuela only accepts PCR test results obtained 72 hours preceding arrival, as opposed to departure
- Guyana arrivals may be subject to random Covid tests on arrival, even when fulfilling other criteria such as being vaccinated
- Suriname‘s pre-departure test validity is 48 hours for PCR, 24 hours for Rapid Antigen
- Suriname is accepting recovery certificates issued up to 6 months prior to the date of travel
*Other rules may apply for any of the above countries. We advise our readers planning an international trip to keep up to date with the evolving regulations by visiting their country of destination’s Consulate website, where official requirements are described.

Bottomline

As you can see, the rest of South America has a lot of catching up to do with La Tierra de Los Hermanos and other Central American competitors in terms of post-pandemic management. As things stand, it is one of the strictest continents to travel right now, unless visitors qualify for exemptions as vaccinated foreigners or returning residents.

Luckily, the up-and-coming digital nomad hub of Argentina, a poster nation for travel freedom, is already welcoming Americans with open arms.

Read More:

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4 Incredible Off The Beaten Path Destinations In Brazil

This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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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
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September 5, 2022
This Country Named Best Destination For Long Solo Trips
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Digital nomadism may be the number one trend worldwide right now, but it’s clear some destinations are far outpacing others when it comes to adapting to this reality, simply by loosening their once-strict immigration curbs, or even launching new visas for the category. Now, the numbers are in, and this one tiny country has ticked all the boxes, being crowned the best for long solo travel in the post Covid world.

Taking into account the extent of its natural wonders, which include natural reserves and pristine Caribbean and Pacific coastlines, and a strong economy that’s among some of the fastest growing in the Americas, it’s no wonder it came out ahead of other traditional nomad havens, including Indonesia and Thailand.

At last, Costa Rica is getting the recognition it deserves:

A Gem Of Central America Growing In Popularity By The Minute

Out of 14 destinations listed by Elite Daily, Costa Rica came out ahead as the best place to travel ‘for a month alone’. In order to reach a consensus, the team talked to experts at Next Vacay, Expedia and Hotels.com, who shared some of the tendencies in travel they’ve been noticing in recent months, and looked at other relevant data that pointed to Costa Rica as the definitive winner.

According to Elite Daily, these renowned platforms agreed on naming Costa Rica the world leader in long-term solo traveling. In fact, Expedia claims it beats all the others to the number one spot as it is ‘equal parts nature-filled serenity and one-of-a-kind adventures‘. Again, these remarks highlight Costa Rica’s strong appeal among nature seekers.

Other recent reports by the booking platform Hostelworld.com seem to support Expedia’s statements, after it concluded that 74 per cent of solo travelers listed ‘natural world experiences’ as their top priority going abroad following Covid. Unsurprisingly, a growing number of them is feeling a magnetic pull to Costa Rica, and Central America on an extent, due to the wild nature found there.

What Makes Costa Rica So Attractive To Solo Travelers?

More specifically, Costa Rica fills in all of the following criteria:
- Good public transportation
- Accessibility*
- Safety
- Variety of things to do once inside the country
*It is an incredibly well-connected hub, boasting flight connections to numerous destinations in the United States, Canada, and across the entire Caribbean

Additionally, living in Costa Rica is much more affordable than living in the States or Europe. Americans can comfortably spend a whole month living on a $2,000 budget, or even a much-lower $1,500, depending on overall spending and accommodation choices. Seeing that rent in Costa Rica tends to be roughly 71% lower as well, we can definitely see why solo travelers are flocking into this Central American gem.

What Are Some Of The Country’s Highlights?

Although it is fairly small compared to the likes of the U.S. and Mexico, Costa Rica has 27 national parks within its national territory, besides being home to roughly five per cent of the world’s entire biodiversity. Yes, it is famous for the extent of its jungles, but cloud forests, dry forests, rainforests, coral reefs and many other wonders also enrich the country’s natural treasures.

The lively capital, San Jose, rivals fellow urban centers in the region, such as Panama’s Panama City and and Nicaragua’s Managua, offering visitors a mix of Spanish colonial architecture and modern 21st century metropolis. More importantly, it is the gateway to Costa Rica, being served by the San Jose International Airport, and linked by bus to numerous destinations across the country.

Other attractions include:
- Arenal, an active volcano famous for its hot springs
- Mistico Arenal, a scenic path featuring the landmark suspended bridges
- Manuel Antonio National Park, a Pacific reserve
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, an inland park with countless hiking trails and outdoor activities
- Fortune Waterfall, an iconic cascade 70 meters tall
- Marino Ballena National Park, a popular site for whale watching
One Downside: Somewhat Slower Internet Compared To The U.S.

On the downside, at least for nomads looking to stay a while longer, Costa Rica has a less-than-impressive fixed broadband speed, with Speedtest ranking it at number 63 globally, at 53.67 Mbps. It still fares better than its strongest competitors, like Mexico (number 77) and Belize (number 86), but it’s well behind the U.S. (number 8) and Canada (number 22).

That’s not to say internet is unbearably slow in Costa Rica. It is, after all, in the same league as the wider Caribbean, and even faster than Mexico’s. So don’t worry, you’ll get your job done as decent, reliable Wi-Fi is available in a majority of settings – except when you’re out there braving the jungle. In that case, we recommend you buy a local SIM.

The Top 14 Destinations For Long-Term Travel According To Elite Daily

Other destinations that have featured on Elite Daily’s list include:
1. Costa Rica
2. Vietnam
3. Ireland
4. Seattle, USA
5. Norway
6. Portugal
7. Greece
8. Copenhagen, Denmark
9. Budapest, Hungary
10. Miami, USA
11. Belize
12. Oaxaca, Mexico
13. Bali, Indonesia
14. Thailand
Out of the above countries, only Costa Rica, Belize, Bali and Thailand have digital nomad visa agreements in place, allowing long-term travelers, including Americans, to live and work freely in the country as long as their source of income originates from abroad and certain financial requirements are met. Others like Portugal and Hungary have announced plans to launch their own in the near future.

Read More:

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Americans Can Travel To These 186 Countries Visa-Free In 2022

This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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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
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August 15, 2022
Americans Can Relocate To This European Country Without A Visa At All
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With all the craziness going on in the States right now, what with the loop of political controversies and economic upheavals, are you thinking of relocating elsewhere, even if only for a while? Perhaps somewhere far from all the culture wars and where life is not as cripplingly expensive? Well, we might know just the place… and surprisingly, Americans don’t need a visa at all to live there for up to a year.

Have you ever heard about Georgia, the country?

A Hidden Gem Nestled In The Far East Of Europe

Georgia is located in the Caucasus, an ambiguous territory marking the European and Asian boundaries, known to compile the very best of the two continents it is sandwiched in between – even then, it has been traditionally considered to be a part of the easternmost reaches of Europe. Sounds confusing still? It is located precisely northeast of Turkey, and south of Russia.

It is also one of the world’s most seriously underrated destinations. Although relatively obscure to Americans, Georgia is an incredibly ancient country, dating back more than 12,000 years. It has centuries upon centuries of History, and there is a lot to unpack here, though its exciting capital, Tbilisi, is a good place to start.

Tbilisi’s cityscape is dominated by picturesque Eastern Orthodox churches, the monumental Sameba Cathedral, a hilltop fortress boasting views of a colorful Old Town and the meandering river below, and countless museums where visitors – and long-term residents – can immerse themselves in, and learn about Georgian/Caucasian culture.

Beyond Tbilisi, Georgia has a myriad of other attractions ready to be discovered, such as the ancient cave city of Vardzia, similar to Turkey’s more famous Cappadocia, picturesque Black Sea towns with beaches that have hardly seen a massive influx of tourists in recent years, the natural wonders of the Mtirala National Park, and many more.

Additionally, for History lovers, the city of Gori in eastern Georgia is the birthplace of Soviet leader Stalin. Those are already reasons enough to consider a move to fascinating Georgia, but this is where things get truly interesting:

No Pre-Departure Visa Required For Stays Up To One Year

The country allows Americans to stay for up to a whole year without requesting a visa in advance. That means you can easily pack up all your belongings – which if you’re a digital nomad won’t be many at all – and move to Georgia with just your passport. No registration required, to Consulate appointments, no pre-issued permits. Simple as that.

For that reason, Georgia is one of the easiest countries to emigrate to. Unlike other European nations, that normally require a truckload of documents to grant Americans residence permits, Georgia is pretty lax about it. If you want to come and make it your base, whether temporarily or for a whole year, you’re more than welcome to.

On the other side, having relaxed immigration rules does not mean Americans enjoy freedom to move into and out of Georgia as they wish. It is still a sovereign country, and some rules must be respected. If they are residing in Georgia for more than 183 days, and are employed, for instance, Americans are liable to pay tax.

Small Business Owners May Be Eligible To Pay Only 1% In Taxes

This includes those working as entrepreneurs, or for an American-based company while living in Georgia. Those who don’t comply risk getting fined, and although the Personal Income Tax rate is relatively high at 20%, it is still far lower than other more popular European nations like Germany, at 37.7%, or Italy, where taxing can reach a staggering 43%.

If you’re still not happy about contributing this much to the Georgian Treasury, there is an easy way to bypass the high fees: for young entrepreneurs and freelancers coming from America and other countries, Georgia allows them to register for a ‘Small Business Status’, allowing them to pay 1% instead of 20%.

The only requirements? Do not have earnings originating from consulting and gambling, and an annual turnover of less than 500,000 lari, or approximately $184,000. Not that difficult to fulfill being a full-time traveler, right? With all this money talk, you may probably be wondering: is Georgia an expensive place to live in?

How Expensive Is Georgia?

To sum it up, not at all. Georgia has long been a haven for digital nomads looking to escape mainland Europe’s extortionate prices, and according to Numbeo, a platform compiling cost of living data across several destinations, a single person is expected to spend an average $538 a month living in the country, not including rent (August 2022 numbers).

It 42.42% more affordable living in Georgia than in France, for example. When planning to stay longer than a year, or even make Georgia their full-time home, Americans have a number of options to consider, though they are advised to contact local authorities to inquire about visa extensions, or permanent residence permits.

Things That Make Georgia Great

Here are other reasons why Georgia is a great place to relocate to:
- It has universal, publicly-funded healthcare
- Georgian and Russian may be the preferred language of a majority, but English is widely spoken too, particularly in major urban centers like Tbilisi and among the younger demographic
- World-class cuisine, some of the best in the Caucasus
- The country’s main international airports, particularly Tbilisi and Kutaisi, have direct links to other destinations all across Europe and Asia, facilitating travel for American expats
- Entrepreneurs with a ‘small business’ registration pay only 1% in tax
- It has access to the sea, namely the Black Sea, meaning there is an extensive beach stretch available for bathers in the hot summer months
- Georgia experiences hot summers, with temperatures ranging from 20 degrees to 32, and winters that are cold, but quite bearable (-1 to 7 degrees)
- Wine was invented here 6,000 years ago! And trust us, there is surely no shortage of the famous Georgian wine, or picturesque wineries, across the nation
Not sure about you, but we’re taking the next flight out like, right away. To find out more about travel to Georgia, entry requirements, health insurance requirements, and long-stay visas, make sure you access this link.

Read More:

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This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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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
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August 13, 2022
This Fascinating Eastern European Country Has A New Digital Nomad Visa For Americans
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Remote workers based in the United States, rejoice! Yet another country has embraced the Digital Nomad trend and will start issuing residence visas for eligible foreign nationals, including Americans. If you’ve never heard of this Eastern European country before, allow us to introduce you to the wonders of the fascinating Latvia:

One of the most affordable places to visit in the continent, it is a Baltic Sea jewel bordering Lithuania and Estonia and a nation steeped in History and tradition. Although it is not the most obvious of tourist destinations, Latvia has been growing in popularity in recent years, especially among travelers looking to escape overtourism.

So what exactly makes Latvia such an appealing Digital Nomad destination?

A Country That’s Been A Digital Nomad Hotspot In The Making For Years

Latvia is a relatively new country. While the Latvian language dates back centuries, the region the Latvian people today call their home has existed as a province under several Empires throughout History. The most recent example is the Soviet Union, that collapsed in the early nineties and opened the path for Latvia to proclaim independence in 1991.

Fast forward 31 years later and you will find a well-developed nation that managed to shake off the ghosts of its Communist past, and despite being in close proximity to Russia, is now a member of the European Union and NATO. Latvia is no stranger to change, and since it found its freedom it’s been constantly looking for ways to revitalize its economy.

Riga, its picturesque, 632,000-people strong capital, has been an entrepreneurship hub for years, attracting people from all over Europe and beyond due to its highly affordable cost of living and low bureaucracy for those starting a business. In fact, the Latvia Government has been committed to a ‘Zero Bureaucracy‘ policy.

Their aim is to reduce the unnecessary paperwork in the public sector and make it easier for businesses to prosper. Because of that, Latvia is at the forefront of the digital revolution in Europe: according to data from the European Commission, it ranks at number 17 in the Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI), out of a total of 44 European countries and territories.

Unsurprisingly, launching a new Digital Nomad residence permit is the next natural step moving forward. As we have discussed extensively in this other article, both solo travel and long-term travel are here to stay, now that the pandemic has boosted the digitization of the economy and remote working is more popular than ever.

Latvian Digital Nomad Visa: The Easy Path To EU Citizenship For Americans?

As of now, only citizens and residents of OECD countries (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) will be able to apply for the Latvian Digital Nomad Visa. This includes natives of the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Israel, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Turkey, and many more.

The visa allows digital workers, whose business or companies that employ them are registered in OECD states, to live in Latvia for up to two years, without requiring local sponsorship. Additionally, the country will be offering a path to permanent residence for those who apply to remain in Latvia once two years have elapsed.

After five years of continuous legal residence in Latvia (e.g. two years under the Digital Nomad scheme, and then a further three years as a permanent residence), foreigners are eligible to apply for Latvian citizenship, which would grant them EU citizenship as an extent, and the right to move freely across the whole European Union.

What Are The Visa Requirements?

In order to apply for this visa, digital nomads will need to satisfy the following requirements:
- They cannot hold Latvian or another EU/EEA citizenship, or Swiss citizenship*
- Their own company, or company they work for must be registered in an OECD country, such as the United States, Canada or Mexico
- They must be highly qualified professionals
- They need to prove at least six months of employment with a foreign employer, or register as an entrepreneur abroad
- Their monthly salary must be 2.5 times higher than the national average in Latvia**
*EU, EEA (Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein), and Swiss nationals already enjoy freedom of movement in Latvia as per the Free Movement directive, with no requirement other than nationality. If you are a U.S. passport holder, as well as a European citizen, you can already take up residency in Latvia freely by presenting proof of your other nationality.

**The minimum wage in Latvia is roughly USD 521,00 as of January, 2022, according to Eurostat.

Other requirements, such as filling out an application form, presenting proof of mandatory health insurance and payment of a visa fee may be detailed at a further date, once the new visa is officially launched. Essentially, non-Europeans must prove they are qualified professionals in their field and a stable source of income of at least USD 1,302.50 a month.

Latvia is the latest European country to issue Digital Nomad Visas, following:
- Croatia (Already launched)
- Italy (Planning to launch)
- Romania (Planning to launch)
- Hungary (Planning to launch)
Latvia Could Be The World Capital For Digital Nomads

Several other EU countries will also be opening the doors to Digital Nomads in the coming months, though none has been as generous as Latvia in regards to financial visa requirements. Authorities in the country believe that introducing this category will ‘help the tourism industry’ by bringing in a ‘large number’ of international travelers working remotely.

Marija Golubeva, the Latvian Interior Minister, has conceded that countries with a ‘more open’ immigration policy have higher GDP, lower unemployment rates, and ‘better-educated’ labor force. Besides being open to the digital revolution, Latvia has the potential to be one of the world’s digital nomad hotspots.

It is a front-runner in broadband coverage and is already prepared for the wider 5G roll-out set to take place next year. As stated by the European Commission on its latest DESI report, one of Latvia’s ‘main strengths’ is the extremely advanced coverage of fast broadband, comprising 93% of the territory – slightly higher than the EU-wide average of 87%.

Latvia has a 4G coverage of 99.9% and has been one of the first in Europe to allocate a radio spectrum for 5G once it’s been fully implemented. This means digital nomads can find a reliable internet connection to carry out their daily work anywhere, from the metropolitan Riga to the idyllic Latvian countryside.

Bottom Line

Eastern Europe is our favorite destination to travel right now, mostly due to its affordability compared to other Western states, like France or Spain, and the freedom travelers now enjoy country-hopping in the region. Bar a few exceptions, the East has no travel restrictions in place whatsoever – fortunately, Latvia is part of this collective.

When making Latvia (an EU country) their base, American nomads will enjoy higher standards of living compared to the United States, incredible culture, and nearly negligible crime levels. As aforementioned, they will also have the opportunity to apply for Latvian citizenship, so long as they integrate into Latvian society and show proficiency in the language.

More information can be found on the Government website.

Read More:

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7 Underrated Destinations In Europe For 2022

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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
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July 2, 2022