Unfortunately, the novel coronavirus outbreak which began in China is showing no sign of abating. As fear looms over the global spread of the fatal virus, questions on whether it is safe to travel naturally arise. While it may not seem like the ideal time to cross the border, do not let it dampen your wanderlust! As long as safeguards are taken to keep yourself healthy both in the air and whilst on holiday, you can still stick to your travel plans. However, it’s worth mentioning that you should be prudent in your travels and steer clear of destinations where the flu cases are escalating.
Here are various destinations your travel bug can take you while allaying your worries at the same time! These places are not amongst the 25 countries declared by the World Health Organisation (WHO) with confirmed cases of 2019-nCoV, colloquially known as Wuhan Coronavirus.
1. Maldives
Shimmering turquoise waters, pristine white sands and balmy weather is the quintessential Maldivian respite. Maldives is where you can seas the day!
Headed to the Maldives soon? Let The Lazing Wanderer, voted ‘Best for Maldives’ in the TripZilla Excellence Awards 2019, curate the perfect Maldivian vacation for you. Get this: from flights and resort bookings, to airport transfers – they’ll personalise your holidays based on your preferences and budgets!
2. Bali, Indonesia
The beauty of this island is un-Bali-able! From incredible waterfalls to idyllic beaches, Bali never fails to impress.
Also read: Hot Springs in Bali: The Best 7
3. Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Home to the world’s biggest Buddhist monument, the majestic Borobudur Temple Compounds is one of the many places to visit in Yogyakarta to soak up the unique culture of the Javanese city.
4. Jakarta, Indonesia
Jakarta is renowned for having one of the best city nightlifes in Asia. Get a buzz out of the lively atmosphere in the capital of Indonesia.
5. Vientiane, Laos
Brimming with tradition and culture, Vientiane deserves to be uncovered – before the world catches on.
6. Yangon, Myanmar
Boasting some of the world’s most stunning pagodas, Yangon is a sight to behold. Its ability to retain its cultural roots will fascinate you.
7. Fiji
Fiji is exalted as the ‘Soft Coral Capital of the World’ so let the variegated trove underwater delight you at this slice of paradise.
8. Doha, Qatar
Doha which won the coveted right to host the 2022 Fifa World Cup is a stunning juxtapose of towering skyscrapers and traditional sailing vessels.
9. Samarkand, Uzbekistan
A pivotal part of The Great Silk Road, trail the route camel caravans followed on their way to Europe from China and walk in the footsteps of Alexander the Great.
10. Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Birthplace of Genghis Khan, Ulaanbaatar offers authentic nomadic culture that is prevalent throughout the entire region and unparalleled views of breathtaking landscapes.
11. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is the epitome of East meets West. Straddled between Europe and Asia, the enigmatic culture of this beautiful city is palpable all over.
Also read:10D8N Turkey Itinerary: Discover the Heritage of City Ruins, Ancient Mosques and More!
12. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Meandering canals along tilting buildings make Amsterdam incredibly charming and a reposeful haven for travellers.
13. Zermatt, Switzerland
Think fresh air, a luxurious alpine village and snowy peaks, Zermatt in all its natural splendour will captivate your senses. You can enjoy skiing during the winter or hiking during the summer.
14. Reykjavík, Iceland
The dramatic geological wonders in Reykjavík are unrivalled. Waterfalls, glaciers, warm lagoons and black sand beaches to name a few will greet you at this Nordic island nation.
15. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest exudes an archaic charm that is unmissable; with its Neo-Baroque architecture and sprawling thermal complexes.
16. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague’s storied history dates back a thousand years and ambling around this endearing city will make you feel like you have been transported to an era long gone.
17. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Being a prominent filming location of the iconic King’s Landing in Games of Thrones, Dubrovnik is even more mesmerising in real life as compared to reel life.
18. Lisbon, Portugal
Expect nothing but an exuberant time in this vivacious city with awe-inspiring views at every corner and a multitude of mouthwatering sweet treats that will delight your taste buds.
19. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape town has it all. From resplendent beaches to the heights of Table Mountain, you can have all the fun in the sun.
20. Tanzania, East Africa
Tanzania has a plethora of preeminent game reserves where you can get up close and personal with animals in their natural habitat. You can take a walk on the wild side in this exotic part of Africa.
Also read: Beyond Tanzania’s African Safaris: Discover Zanzibar’s Sandy White Beaches!
There you have it, a list of places out of harm’s place you can still visit to feed your strong desire to wander and explore the world in this time of crisis. However, do not overlook the seriousness of the Wuhan coronavirus.
Always uphold travel precautions, nonetheless
Handle air travel during this outbreak by heightening precautions you would normally take. Wash your hands with soap frequently and use hand sanitisers whenever necessary. On flights, turn on the air vent above you and direct the nozzle towards your face so as to inhale filtered air that has been cleared off dust and microbes. In the event that you experience symptoms suggestive of the coronavirus before, during or after your travel, seek medical attention promptly and share your travel history with your healthcare provider.
For a live update on the coronavirus, this location map offers a real-life tracking of its cases and spread.
Travel safely!