The Definitive Guide to the Best Places to Travel in 2020 During Coronavirus: Embracing Safe, Sustainable Adventure

Traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges and required a paradigm shift in how we perceive adventure, safety, and sustainability. While international borders closed and tourist hotspots emptied, this period also fostered a unique opportunity to explore the world in a more responsible and mindful manner. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the best travel destinations for 2020 during coronavirus, focusing on maintaining safety standards, promoting sustainable tourism, and enriching your travel experiences with ethical and environmentally conscious choices.

Understanding the Context: Why 2020 Changed the Travel Landscape

The outbreak of the coronavirus drastically transformed the global travel industry. Quarantine measures, travel bans, and health protocols became the new norm. However, these restrictions brought about positive shifts, encouraging travelers to rethink their impact on the environment and local communities. This period underscored the importance of responsible tourism—an ethical approach that balances exploration with conservation, cultural respect, and health safety.

Key Principles for Traveling in 2020 During Coronavirus

• Health and Safety First: Always adhere to local health guidelines, wear masks, maintain social distancing, and prioritize personal hygiene.
• Sustainable Tourism: Support local economies, respect natural habitats, and opt for eco-friendly accommodations and transport modes.
• Flexibility and Adaptability: Embrace changes and plan for flexible itineraries to accommodate evolving travel restrictions.
• Responsible Exploration: Engage in activities that do not harm the environment and ensure your travel footprint is minimized.

Top Best Places to Travel in 2020 During Coronavirus: Destinations for Safe and Sustainable Adventure

1. Remote Natural Hotspots in Scandinavia

Scandinavia, comprising Norway, Sweden, and Finland, offers vast expanses of pristine wilderness, low population density, and a strong emphasis on sustainability. During 2020, these regions emerged as top destinations for travelers seeking solitude and nature-based adventures.

• Norway’s Fjords: Explore the dramatic landscapes of Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord via boat or hiking trails. Less crowded these seasons made for intimate encounters with awe-inspiring scenery.
• Lapland, Finland: Engage in safe, socially distanced activities like reindeer sledding, ice fishing, and Northern Lights viewing in a region committed to eco-friendly luxury lodges.
• Swedish Wilderness: Venture into the unspoiled forests and national parks such as Abisko, ideal for winter activities and observing wildlife in its natural habitat.

2. Lesser-Known European Retreats with Eco-Conscious Tourism

While many European cities faced restrictions, smaller towns and rural areas shone as sustainable travel favorites in 2020.

• Alentejo, Portugal: Known for rolling plains, olive groves, and rivers, Alentejo offers sustainable agritourism experiences coupled with environmentally responsible practices.
• Lake Bled, Slovenia: A tranquil lakeside town that promotes eco-tourism initiatives, offering quiet adventures such as kayaking, cycling, and forest walks.
• Cotswolds, England: Explore charming villages and countryside through eco-friendly walking and cycling tours that support local farms and artisans.

3. Eco-Friendly Adventure in Offbeat Asian Destinations

Asia boasts diverse landscapes and cultural richness, with many destinations prioritizing sustainable development and health safety during the pandemic.

• Bhutan: Renowned for its Gross National Happiness index, Bhutan promotes eco-tourism, remote treks, and cultural preservation, making it an ideal choice for responsible travelers.
• Vietnam’s Rural Highlands: Seek out lesser-visited valleys and mountain regions where community-based tourism supports local economies and preserves traditions.
• Indonesia’s Eco-Resorts: Sample eco-lodges in Bali and Sumatra that integrate conservation efforts with responsible adventure activities like jungle trekking and wildlife viewing.

4. Sustainable Wildlife and Nature Reserves in Africa

Africa offers extraordinary wildlife encounters, and 2020 saw a revival of sustainable eco-tourism to protect endangered species and habitats.

• Kenya’s Community Conservancies: Participate in safaris that directly benefit local Maasai communities, supporting conservation, education, and healthcare initiatives.
• South Africa’s Private Nature Reserves: Experience guided eco-safaris emphasizing minimal environmental impact and cultural sensitivity.
• Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Conservation Area: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site responsibly, with operators committed to eco-friendly tourism practices.

Expert Tips for Safe & Sustainable Travel During 2020

Prioritize Health & Hygiene

Before embarking on any journey, ensure you have the latest health clearance, carry sufficient masks, hand sanitizers, and disinfectants. Opt for accommodations and transportation providers with robust health protocols.

Select Eco-Conscious Accommodations

Choose lodges, hotels, and homestays certified by green standards such as Green Key or EarthCheck. These establishments focus on reducing carbon footprints, conserving water, and supporting local communities.

Engage in Community-Based Eco-Tourism

Participate in activities that empower local populations, such as volunteering, supporting local artisans, and dining at locally owned restaurants.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Be mindful of your waste by carrying reusable water bottles, bags, and utensils. Support businesses that adopt eco-friendly practices.

Leverage Technology for Contactless Travel

Use mobile check-ins, digital tickets, and contactless payments to minimize physical interaction and enhance your safety.

The Future of Travel: Building a Resilient & Sustainable Industry

The pandemic provided a stark reminder of our shared responsibility toward the planet and its inhabitants. Moving forward, the travel industry is expected to pivot toward more sustainable models, emphasizing local experiences, green transportation, and eco-conscious accommodations. Tourists are increasingly seeking authentic, responsible, and health-secure adventures—shaping a new era of tourism that benefits both travelers and destination communities.

Conclusion: Embracing Responsible Adventure in a Changed World

The best places to travel in 2020 during coronavirus exemplify how the world’s most beautiful destinations can be explored responsibly and sustainably. By choosing eco-friendly ways to travel, respecting local cultures, and prioritizing health and safety, travelers can enjoy enriching adventures even amid global challenges. Remember, mindful tourism not only preserves the natural and cultural treasures we cherish but also ensures that future generations will have the opportunity to experience the wonder of our world.

Whether you seek remote wilderness, scenic rural retreats, or cultural experiences rooted in sustainability, 2020 has demonstrated that responsible, well-informed travel can thrive. Embrace the new travel paradigm, and explore the world with an ethical compass guiding your journey toward unforgettable, safe, and meaningful adventures.