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By now you know that U.S. travelers have been banned from Europe for almost a year, and collectively, we've all turned our sights on the Caribbean (or maybe Hawaii?) as alternative vacation destinations this year. But don't write off Europe just yet; Croatia is open and welcoming vaccinated tourists from any country.
The central European country broke with its fellow EU nations by reopening for tourism and welcoming travelers from around the world to visit the aqua lakes of Plitvice or the red-roofed city of Dubrovnik. So how do you go about it? Any vaccinated traveler who has waited the necessary two-week period after the shot, will be exempt from having to show a negative test or quarantine upon arrival in Croatia. Travelers must also show proof of paid accommodation in a hotel, camp, private rental, or rented vessel paid in advance. A reservation alone will not be sufficient.
Un-vaccinated travelers can also make the trip to Croatia, if they're willing to follow stricter rules. Visitors must present a negative test taken no more than 48 hours before arrival at the border, show proof (a certificate of recovery issued by a physician) that they have already contracted COVID-19 and recovered within the last six months and at least 11 days prior to arrival in Croatia, or get tested upon arrival and quarantine until the results come in.
Even if you do head to Croatia this summer, remember that you won't be able to cross the border into many neighboring countries where Americans are still banned.
Croatia not on your bucket list? Here's a full list of destinations that are welcoming US tourists right now.