The surge in Covid-19 cases is keeping visitors away from most of the world’s most popular destinations. However, lesser-known, more remote but equally fascinating destinations are rebounding, offering plenty of ways to escape the crowds and have a socially distanced holiday, whether at home or abroad.
Walking the untouched roads of Japan
With Japan still off-limits to international visitors, now is a great time for Japanese to explore local destinations without encountering crowds of tourists.
An old teahouse on the Nakasendo Road, a historic route known as the “mountain road,” connecting Kyoto with Tokyo
For a quick and convenient way to see the sights, a solo hike is best. Hikers can choose routes that take in the beautiful temples and hot springs of Kunisaki in the south, or explore the ancient Nakasendo Road from Kyoto to Tokyo, with a choice of tours that can last up to seven weeks if you crisscross the country.
In July, Japan launched its Go To tourism campaign to stimulate domestic tourism by subsidizing hotels and travel expenses for locals. Japan is considering opening to international tourists as early as spring 2021 ahead of the Tokyo Olympics in July.
RV Road Trips in the US
RV rentals have become popular during the pandemic as many travelers look to escape crowds.
Renting an RV is a fun way to travel away from all the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the awe-inspiring nature of Colorado National Monument with its red rock spires and deep canyons. Alternatively, they can take a trip to the vast vineyards of Napa Valley or visit the mountains, deserts and dunes of Guadalupe Mountains National Park in Texas.
As the holiday season approaches, RV rental companies are predicting even greater demand, with rental website RVShare finding in a recent survey that half of travelers are considering RVs as a convenient way to visit family during the holidays.
Walking through hilltop houses in Italy
Months after the pandemic hit Italy, remote villages in the country have positioned themselves as rural retreats for tourists in need of some peace and quiet.
Sunset scene over rural villages in Siena, Italy
There are an estimated 5,800 small villages – half of them abandoned – that offer visitors a hillside home, perfect for hiking the hidden country roads. Alternatively, camper van hire and the expanding 240km Tuscan village road can take you across the entire region in a few days.
In May, the Italian government earmarked €30 million ($35 million) to breathe new life into the country’s historic centers, with a particular focus on villages in five southern regions to boost domestic and international tourism. Meanwhile, the recent lockdown has restricted movement around some of the country’s most populous cities, including Milan.
Secret race in France
Home to the iconic “Tour de France” bicycle race, France boasts some of the most beautiful cycling routes in the world.
There are many cycling routes in Provence for visitors to explore the beautiful scenery.
Those looking for a socially distanced getaway can choose from a number of rural routes across the country, either alone or with a guide. Tours such as Discover France and Tour Radar allow cyclists to experience the majestic mountains of the Pyrenees, the historic châteaux of the Loire Valley or the vast fields of Provence.
France is in its second nationwide lockdown, with domestic and international travel restricted until at least the end of November.
Driving on remote roads in Scotland
Scotland's vast highlands and islands can make for some beautiful and socially distanced getaways for adventurous travellers.
The Isle of Skye is one of many beautiful places for visitors to Scotland while still ensuring social distancing
Travellers can choose from the country’s most remote routes, whether it’s driving through the rugged mountains of the Isle of Skye or journeying to the Knoydart Peninsula. Or, for a taste of the festive season, explore the snow-capped peaks and rugged gorges of the Snow Roads, hidden in the Cairngorms National Park.
With the UK still battling rising Covid-19 cases, the Scottish government is now actively considering introducing legislation to ban travel to and from Covid-19 hotspots.
Cruise along the coast of Singapore
As the Southeast Asian nation opens up to non-stop flights this month, Singaporeans will once again enjoy a taste of overseas travel.
Private boat charters can provide a means of escaping the crowds of society.
But locals hoping for a more socially distanced excursion can opt for a private charter, which offers all the fun of the open sea without the crowds. Online charter platforms including GetMyBoat, which saw a 3,900% increase in demand between April and October this year, offer luxury and budget charters starting at around $188 a day.
In July, Singapore also launched Singapoliday, a $32 million domestic tourism program, with a series of incentives to stimulate domestic tourism.
