The Safest Places To Travel This Fall

As the world reopens and countries around the globe continue to loosen COVID-19-related entry protocols if not drop them entirely, travelers will have an array of exciting destinations to choose from this fall. Fortunately, international travel is not only accessible once again but continues to be a safe pursuit for people eager to leave home and explore new places. While there's no shortage of safe destinations to visit over the final third of 2022, there is a handful that stands out based on the latest U.S. State Department travel advisories, the most recent Global Peace Index and the current COVID-19 landscape and its subsequent impact on local travel restrictions.

Aruba continues to be among the safest places for travelers escaping to the Caribbean this fall. The island is located outside of the Atlantic hurricane belt, receives a Level 1 travel advisory from the U.S. State Department (exercise normal precautions) and has lifted a handful of pandemic-related entry restrictions making it easier for visitors to arrive without proof of vaccination, a negative COVID-19 test result or mandatory travel and medical insurance.

Across the pond, Ireland ranks third on the Institute for Economics and Peace's Global Peace Index in 2022 and the country eliminated all remaining COVID-related entry restrictions back in March. Therefore, it's easy to explore the Emerald Isle and its leading attractions, from the Guinness Storehouse to the Blarney Castle.

While Canada continues to impose pandemic-related restrictions on entry, the North American country remains among the safest in the world for fall travelers. After all, Canada ranks 12th on the Global Peace Index this year, a whopping 117 spots better than the U.S.

Another Level 1 travel destination, according to the State Department, Thailand is among the safest tourist hotspots in Asia this fall. Plus, the country recently dropped its previous Thailand Pass requirement, does not require proof of medical insurance and is open to fully vaccinated travelers without a negative COVID-19 test result.

Falling just outside of the top 50 on the Global Peace Index in 2022, Greece is a safe and accessible European destination for fall travelers seeking a bit of history, culture and indulgence in the sun-drenched Mediterranean. Aside from the potential of random testing, the country is COVID-19 restriction-free.

While expensive given the demand, venturing Down Under will be a lot easier and safer this fall as Australia has lifted COVID-related travel restrictions. The massive country also ranks an impressive 27th on the Global Peace Index and receives a Level 1 travel advisory from the State Department.

To the east of Australia, the South Pacific archipelago of Fiji continues to be a safe destination for luxury travelers and those looking to make some progress on their bucket list. Perhaps one of the best ways to experience this heavenly country is with an all-inclusive luxury sailing with the award-winning Paul Gauguin Cruises.

There's a lot to love about one-of-a-kind Malta, including its enviable climate, amazing natural wonders and impressive history and culture. Plus, the breathtaking Mediterranean locale receives a Level 1 travel advisory from the U.S. State Department and has eliminated cumbersome pandemic-related entry protocols.

On the other side of the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean island country of Saint Lucia is equally as memorable as Malta, surprising visitors with an unparalleled blend of nature, luxury, food and culture. What's more, the country will drop testing and vaccination requirements for travelers from September 5.