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With COVID-19 cases on the decline and the vaccines being distributed at a record rate, it feels like there is finally a light at the end of the tunnel. Hotels are selling out and flights are being added daily; travel has returned. As wonderful as staycations and road trips can be, people are also itching to cross an international destination off their bucket list. There are many places you can currently travel, but here are eight popular spots to consider for your next leisure getaway.

Travel Tip: Dreaming of blue water and white sand as far as the eye can see? One of the great things about traveling in the Caribbean is that many resorts are all-inclusive. Consider booking your next vacation at an all-inclusive resort as it’s another way to help slow the spread and minimize your own risk to COVID-19.

Bahamas

The Bahamas have reopened for international travelers as of summer 2020. In order to visit, you must complete a negative PCR COVID-19 test within five days of departing for the Bahamas. As soon as you receive your negative test, you will then apply for the required Bahamas Travel Health Visa. The visa includes required medical health insurance and processing time for the visa can take a few days, so be sure to apply as soon as receiving your negative test results. Once your visa is approved, you will need to present it at the airport and upon arrival. The islands encourage social distancing and masking but some islands have different regulations than others, so make sure to do your research before arrival. If your stay is less than five days long, each morning you will receive a symptom check email; you must complete the email¹. While it may be more hoops to jump through than you're used to, these tiny and easy steps are well worth it for the weather and views.

Turks and Caicos

The Turks and Caicos islands require both a negative PCR COVID-19 test within five days of travel and travel insurance. IMG's iTravelInsured plans meet the requirements for travel insurance. There is a required health screening questionnaire prior to entry, but after you arrive, there are no additional checks or monitoring. Turks and Caicos are known for having the best diving in the Caribbean. 

Panama

Panama has been reopened to international travelers since October 2020. They require a negative PCR COVID-19 test within 48 hours of the traveler’s arrival time. If you are unable to obtain the results within 48 hours, travelers have the option to pay $50 for a rapid test at the Panama airport prior to passing through customs. Panama requires all visitors to complete an electronic affidavit accepting the following terms²:

• Comply and adhere to all sanitary control measures
• Provide destination information for the duration of the trip for contract tracing
• Complete a symptom check to confirm health status

While Panama does not require or provide travel medical insurance, it is highly recommended. If you need some activity inspiration, be sure to check out our travel guide to Panama.

Costa Rica

Known for its amazing national parks, Costa Rica is open to international travelers. For those looking to travel while safely enjoying the great outdoors, Costa Rica is a fantastic destination. Costa Rica currently accepts negative PCR and antigen COVID-19 tests to enter the country. The tests can be taken up to 72 hours before the flight and you will need to fill out a digital health pass 48 hours before arrival. Travel insurance is required and policies must meet the requirements below³:

• Coverage for the entire duration of stay in Costa Rica
• $50,000 minimum coverage travel medical insurance including COVID-19
• $2,000 trip accommodation expenses in event of COVID-19 quarantine
  

Mexico

As of January 2021, all travelers must provide a negative PCR COVID-19 test within 72 hours of air travel to Mexico. Upon arrival, temperature checks and additional health screenings may be required. There are no other requirements for travel. If you are traveling by land or headed down for a day trip to Mexico, you are not required to provide a negative COVID-19 test.

Colombia

A negative PCR COVID-19 test is required within 96 hours of travel in order to enter Colombia. If you are unable to obtain a test, you are allowed to quarantine for 14 days⁴. Restaurants, sports arenas, entertainment areas, and religious services are currently operating with limited capacities. Many cities in Colombia have strict curfews such as Bogota and Medellin, so be sure to check with the hotel for any additional local restrictions.

Ireland

Ireland is one country that still requires a quarantine period even with a negative COVID-19 test. In addition to the negative PCR test, you must quarantine for a minimum of five days. After the fifth day, you can take another PCR test, and, upon testing negative, you may leave quarantine⁵. Visitors must also fill out a contact tracing form. While the restrictions are limiting, if Ireland is on your travel wish list, it’s worth taking the trip.

Kenya

Perhaps you’re itching to live out your quarantine Tiger King dreams on a real-life safari. Kenya is open and thriving for international visitors. In order to enter, you must present a negative PCR test taken no more than 96 hours before departure. The Kenya Ministry of Health has also launched its own Trusted Travel Initiative website. This portal allows users to stay up to date with the latest requirements.

Travel Insurance

No matter where you decide to travel, international or domestic, we highly recommend purchasing a travel protection plan (iTravelInsured) or travel medical insurance plan (Patriot) to protect you from unexpected accidents, illnesses, or trip interruptions.

Check out our COVID-19 resource page for information and frequently asked questions regarding COVID-19 and IMG's travel medical insurance and travel protection plans.

Get a quote now or contact the Sales Service Center with any additional questions at  (866) 368-3724.