PHOTO: Hawaii is Zika-free. (Photo courtesy Hawaii Tourism Authority)
For many, piling on the Deet and heading out into the wide world isn't a problem. For some in at-risk categories such as women who may be pregnant or couples who are trying to become pregnant, vacationing Zika-free is a make-or-break criteria in their selection of summer destinations. The folks at CheapAir.com are making those looking for travel free from mosquito-born illnesses a cinch with a list of alternative destinations that are equal to or better than those in Zika-affected areas.
Hawaii
Several Caribbean islands, including the Bahamas, are still Zika-free but, if you are looking for an alternative for your island vacation, CheapAir suggests Hawaii. The islands have just successfully fought off Dengue fever and are a great alternative for those looking for an island sojourn.
You can make your visit as affordable or as extravagant as you like. Book any number of vacation homes just steps from the sand and dine at local restaurants or live it up at any of the variety of luxury accommodations available on the islands, from bustling Waikiki to the secluded beaches on Maui.
READ MORE: How Families Can Save Big on Summer Bookings
Ibiza, Spain
If you had your heart set on a Mexico beach vacation but are worried about contracting Zika, you can head to Ibiza, Spain, according to CheapAir. There is a rocking nightlife scene at the very least equal to what you would find in Cancun as well as beautiful beaches and scenery. For those looking to up the ante, head to Formentera, a hippie enclave far from the wild party lifestyle of Ibiza yet just a ferry ride away from the action.
Hilton Head Island, S.C.
Zika is commonly of great concern for families, so if you want your family beach vacation destination free from concerns over Zika, look more local to a place like Hilton Head, S.C. The destination is a no-brainer for families with the shallow, placid waters and tidal pools of Coligny Beach, open-air family entertainment at Coligny Plaza and giant tricycle riding on the boardwalk.
READ MORE: What Do Travelers Really Want in A Cruise?
Portugal
If you were dead set on practicing your Portugese at the Summer Olympics in Brazil but are too freaked out by Zika to go, why not try the real thing in Portugal? Completely Zika free, the country has its own set of stunning white-sand beaches in the Algarve and the Azores and Lisbon offers up some bustiling big-city charm.
Alaska
And if you are putting your Caribbean cruise plans on hold, why not try something a little more bold and a maybe a bit more cold? Alaska is the perfect stop to find adventure, it's easy to reach and, in the summertime, catching a cruise up there is almost as easy - and frequent - as the Caribbean.
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