While many destinations remain popular year after year, there is always some degree of churn among the most desirable getaway locations, if for no other reason than changes in fashion. In the year 2021, however, the list of popular destinations has a new consideration introduced into the equation.

Many traditionally preferred locales remain desirable, but they are in many cases closed to foreign travel while the pandemic rages. No matter how much you might want to vacation in Thailand this season, you are going to be disappointed. The government is not letting anybody into the country, no matter how much the economy depends on tourism.

Another factor being taken into account is an understandable desire to avoid crowds to protect oneself against infection. Large metropolitan areas are largely off the list on account of this consideration. Almost in its entirety, the cruise industry has been scratched from the list of desirable vacations for 2021.

Once an itinerant traveler has scratched off all the places with “Closed” signs on them and those that may be hazardous to one’s health due to crowded conditions, there are only a few options left to ponder. Outdoor destinations replete with scenic beauty and lacking large numbers of fellow travelers are ranking higher on the list than usual.

Fortunately, much of Central and South America remains open for business and offers great weather and lustrous scenery and exotic exploration of past civilizations. Of course, there is a bewildering patchwork of local regulations and restrictions to consider in these uncertain times. That is why it is best to plan your next getaway with an expert travel partner such as Royal Holiday Vacation Club.

The idea behind Royal Holiday Vacation Club is to give members the inside track on the best rates at the finest destinations, thanks to their combined membership’s mass buying power. In turn, you get professional expertise on what destinations are truly open and fun to visit and those operating at very low levels of performance, which would undoubtedly impact the holiday experience.

One of the top destinations now is down Mexico way. Frolicking in the surf at lovely Cozumel pairs nicely with an expedition into the lost world of the Maya out in the jungles of the Yucatan. The same recipe of sun and adventure into vanished civilizations awaits the traveler to Egypt.

Suppose you’re looking to stay at home. In that case, there is still plenty of winter fun available at top ski destinations such as Vail in majestic Colorado or the resorts around Lake Tahoe, Nevada. Or one might zip down to the Caribbean to discover the delights of Punta Cana in the relatively undiscovered Dominican Republic. For those thinking about establishing a new residence for tax purposes, a vacation down to America’s own island paradise, Puerto Rico, would kill two birds with one enjoyable stone of an excursion.

Over in Europe, holidays are always special on the Costa del Sol along the Mediterranean coast of Spain or out among the Canary Islands. No matter where you might want to escape, Royal Holiday Vacation Club has turn-key deals waiting for you.

More than most years, 2021 is shaping up to be one where everyone is ready for a vacation. Let the experts at Royal Holiday show you what’s open and accessible, what’s affordable, and what’s worth visiting under this year’s unusual travel conditions. Not all destinations are going to offer the proper level of relaxation under the current circumstances. You need someone to show you which ones would be better to visit in upcoming years and which ones are real, worthwhile values today.

Sheri Gill