If all the world's a stage, then the subplot of traveling in 2021 has just been riddled with dramatic twists and turns. It seems only yesterday that we were having cocktails at a rooftop bar in Singapore or taking in a mask-free whiff of saffron & sandalwood somewhere in Morocco. At no other time has any wayfarer worth their passport and weekend bag ever wished so badly for an uneventful chapter than today: just a little over a year since global travel restrictions were imposed, right before another summer possibly spent at home.

Fortunately, a few countries have gone without incident long enough to open up their borders and, among them, top summer destinations that are remedies to those most deprived of their wanderlust. What stories will these places tell as the landscape of the New Normal unfolds in these times? Well, choose your own adventure from among these travel tales.

• The Untouched Archipelago of Azores, Portugal

How about a month-long tour of this volcanic group of islands off the peninsula to enjoy its green pastures and white sand beaches, and even see some whales?

These nine islands a few hours’ away from Lisbon feature Portugal’s first capital, Angra do Heroísmo, on Terceira. Its 15th-century streets and palaces are preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Center, flanked by natural pools made of rock and sea below and what remains of a volcano named Monte Brazil above. And yet, this dreamy vision isn’t even the prime destination of the small archipelago that’s been reported to attain herd immunity in the midst of global pandemic.

Tourists visit the largest island, São Miguel, for a boutique hotel experience in a bustling creative coastal town that offers lakes and hot springs just a few miles inland. Small restaurants serve Azorean seafood such as a barnacle called cracas and their local lobster called cavaco, while a bounty of bananas, coffee, pineapples, and oranges abound across the land. If you chance upon a wine-tasting of the whites coming out of the Pico, which is a UNESCO Wine Region, the particular microclimates of the island may reveal its long history in wine-making.

• A Pristine Passage to The Maldives

Take a seaplane to the Arif Atoll, a group of 30 islands in the Indian Ocean, and get away to paradise. 

Surrounded by stretches of glistening ocean, thriving coral reefs, and dreamlike luxurious villas, The Maldives’ Arif Atoll offers a blissful beach destination that seems unperturbed by the outside world. Indeed, that mindset of total escape can be achieved within a few days, what more a couple of weeks, on this sanctuary. For a good part of the year, the weather permits an all-day soak in calm waters that can be spent snorkeling, scuba diving, canoeing, windsurfing, or handline fishing on a traditional Maldivian vessel. Or, simply lounge in the opulence of a stilted suite; perhaps even an underwater hotel room.

A vacation to one of The Maldives’ 1,000 islands and atolls is a complete resort experience in that guests can remain on the property for the entirety of the stay. With a predominantly Muslim population in the country, The Maldives’ local islands prohibit alcohol consumption, public displays of affection, and clothing that violates their standards of modesty. These activities are limited to the accommodation premises of the visitors, but compliance and respect for the religion and custom would benefit tourists that are looking to immerse in rich native life. Day visits to an inhabited island offer a glimpse into how handicrafts are made, the inhabitants setting off to go fishing, and the daily grind of small restaurants, local households, and merchants. 

• 100 Caribbean Nights

Live slowly across these islands, each offering a distinct experience of nature and connection.

Book a one-way open ticket into the Caribbean Sea and explore unhurriedly through the beautiful island nations. From the jungles of Belize, which boasts the second largest barrier reef in the world, to the flamingo oases of Aruba, a summer destination of endless white coasts, unearth Maya temples, and tropical living awaits.

Technically, the Caribbean encompasses 700 islands that are made up of about 30 nations, sovereign or otherwise affiliated with countries in Central America, Europe, and the United States. Overlapping culture, geography, and tradition create the pulse of this territory, which can be experienced in the art, music, history, and cuisine of the different islands. Prepare to immerse in hikes, swims, wines, and maybe some dancing.

• From Island to Island in Greece

Take your pick from island cities to historic towns surrounded by beaches on the Aegean Sea.

What better destination to travel to ease your mind during a health crisis than the island birthplace of the Ancient Greek healer Hippocrates? The father of medicine, according to legend, taught his first students under a tree in Kos, which still stands today. The Asklepion, a structure built by these Hippocratic pupil-disciples, is over 2,000 years old.

After you’ve had a dose of history, treat yourself to the plethora of self-care activities from an idyllic trip to the Greek islands. Kefalos opens up for beachside lounging, ideal for sunbathing and leisurely swims in the sea. Take part in local skincare practices that involve lathering yogurt and honey unto the body, while also decompressing through a deep tissue massage.

• Culture and Cuisine in Croatia

With panoramic views of turquoise waters to see while enjoying local fanfare, places such as the Konavle region are best kept secret.

Travel isn’t limited to planes and boats. Get on the right side of the road — literally — and explore the Adriatic Coast by car when you’re in Croatia. This mindful approach to travel can change the nature of the trip through an appreciation of the language, the sights along the way, and even the demeanor of other drivers. It’s an enlightening and refreshing way to experience a place when you’re traveling, perfect for the exploration of Old Town and its medieval structures.

This also gives you a number of chances to stop by a tavern where you can clink your glass to rakija, a local fruit spirit often drunk before a meal in Croatia. Of course, don’t drink and drive — especially in a foreign country — but it’s nothing a culinary feast of local delicacy couldn’t handle. A generous mouthful of the boškarin, which is Istrian oxen that can be served as a carpaccio, or the crni rižot, also known as black risotto, gives a visitor a taste of the historic significance of his destination.

"Another increasingly popular way for LGBT+ travelers to explore the Croatian Islands is on gay sailing trips. Discovering the local food, culture, and natural beauty while island hopping with other LGBT travelers sounds like such a special experience.

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