If you’re living in the hope that you’ll soon be packing your suitcase, we don’t blame you!

And just because you can’t go abroad right now, it doesn’t mean you can’t spend your days dreaming about your next trip. And hey, it’s never too early to get saving, right?

Perhaps you already know where you want to go on your first holiday once the world opens back up, but if you don’t, we’re here to inspire you.

Below, MyBaggage.com has pulled together a list of some of the most exciting places you should visit once the travel industry returns to (some sort of) normal.

1. Kenya

If you’re hoping to travel, but you’re also happy to keep your distance, Kenya has plenty of beautiful wide-open spaces to enjoy. As a general rule, the country has handled COVID-19 very well with rigorous testing requirements and temperature-taking practices, so this can put your mind at rest.

COVID aside, Kenya boats some incredible hotels, including safari lodges where you can live amongst some of the nation’s most famous wildlife.

And better still for animal lovers, the country has plenty of national parks to explore and wildlife safaris to take part in.

Contrast this with some of Kenya’s beautiful beaches and bustling cities and there really is something for everyone in this wonderful country.

2. Greece

Greece often makes it onto a traveller’s bucket lists thanks to its rich history, classic architecture and natural wonders, not to mention its beautiful hotels and sandy beaches. With so many islands to choose from, you could even do a bit of island hopping to mix things up.

From scenic Santorini, where you can enjoy luxury hotels and delicious dining to some of the more fun, party destinations like Mykonos, Greece has something to offer every type of traveller.

You can sit back on your sun lounger and soak up the rays or spend your days exploring some of the world’s most recognisable monuments like the Acropolis of Athens and the ancient Olympia.

3. Ireland

There are plenty of wonderful places to visit in Ireland, from its lush green countryside to its world-famous bustling cities like Dublin. This makes it the perfect place to visit whether you’re planning a quick weekend break, or a month spent making an exciting road trip around the country.

What’s more, it’s perfect for those who love long coastal walks, wild landscapes, charming Irish pubs, whiskey and perhaps even a game of golf; Ireland should absolutely be on your hit list once the COVID-19 pandemic is at bay.  

4. Costa Rica

Costa Rica has managed to maintain one of the lowest COVID-19 levels in Latin America and has been praised for how this has been managed and contained. So not only can you feel safe there, but you can also feel good about your travel choices as the country is a long-time global leader in conservation and sustainability.

Whether you want to stay in luxury eco-lodges or a laid-back hotel, you’re bound to find accommodation that suits your travelling style.

You can spend your days exploring the national parks or relaxing on the stunning beaches. Or, if you’re a bit of an adrenaline junkie and lazing about isn’t really your thing, you can fill your days with activities like river rafting, canyoning, cave tubing and zip-lining.

5. New Zealand

Thanks to its breath-taking scenery, great road trips, national parks and opportunities for adventure sports, New Zealand often finds its way onto many travellers bucket lists.

But if this wasn’t enough, the nation has also been praised for being one of the best (if not THE best) in the world at handling the COVID-19 pandemic.

So, you can feel safe when you travel and you’ll also have the opportunity to spend your days out in the fresh air, exploring the open spaces and beautiful surroundings.

That being said, you should definitely venture into some of the nation’s key cities, such as Auckland and Wellington. The Kiwis know how to create a city with character and these are well worth a visit.

6. Mexico

Mexico is a beautifully diverse country offering the perfect mixture of big urban landscapes, quaint villages and white sandy beaches. Interestingly, San Miguel de Allende in Mexico was recently voted the best small city in the world by Condé Nast Traveler.

As well as plenty of relaxing and fun places to stay, including clifftop villas, travellers can enjoy activities such as hot-air balloon rides, lounging in hot-springs, surfing, soaking up the sun on the beach and of course, eating!

Mexico’s incredible culture and food is no secret, so if you’re a foodie, this should certainly be on your travel bucket list once travel resumes.

7. The Maldives

The pandemic certainly took its toll on most of us and if you’re looking to escape reality and spend some time in paradise, then the Maldives should be your first port of call.

Depending on where you stay, you can enjoy white sandy beaches, crystal clear seas, wonderful sea life, underwater restaurants and even floating cinemas!

This incredible chain of islands also offers a range of luxury accommodations including, spas, grand  five-star hotels and overwater bungalows.

The peaceful and secluded nature of the Maldives means this is the ultimate break for relaxing and recharging your batteries whilst taking a well-earned break from your everyday life.

8. Antarctica

On a similar note to the Maldives, if you’re looking for a total break from reality, why not consider an adventure to Antarctica?

It might sound a little crazy, but after the mundane few years we’ve had, it could be time to do something you’ve never done before.

And once the pandemic is under control, there will be plenty of trips running to the White Continent, where you can enjoy boat trips with a team of experts. Many of these ships are fully equipped with suites, spas and saunas, to make the experience even more memorable!

So, if you’re really looking to take your travel to the next level in a post-COVID world, this could be the location for you.