More Than Half The World Is On The CDC 'Do Not Travel' List & These Are The Safest Spots Left

It's not easy to take an international trip during a global pandemic, but there are still a few countries where you can almost get away from all the COVID-19 talk.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently expanded its list of countries that you shouldn't visit, and more than half of the world's nations are on it.

But that doesn't mean you're stuck at home. The CDC also lists seven countries as "low risk" for COVID-19, meaning you can visit them in relative safety, provided you are "up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines."

Here are the last few places on the globe where you might just be able to enjoy a vacation without worrying too much about the virus.

Benin

Benin is a small country located in West Africa that borders Nigeria and the Niger River. Benin achieved independence from French rule in 1960.

The country has a rich history and culture, as well as many beautiful national parks to visit. If you're looking for a French-speaking country for your escape, Benin is one to consider.

Timor-Leste

Timor-Leste is a small island nation comprised mostly of the eastern half of the island of Timor, just north of Australia. The other half of the island is Indonesia.

The former Portuguese colony is best known for its picturesque scenery and the vibrant coral reefs surrounding the shores.

Indonesia

Close to our last location, Indonesia is located off the southern coast of Asia, comprised of over 17,000 islands spanning from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific.

One of the most popular tourist destinations in Indonesia is Bali, a stunning island off the coast of the larger island of Java. Resorts, trails, volcanos and scuba diving are just a few of the activities you can enjoy there.

Sierra Leone

Home to the world-famous Cotton Tree — a symbol of freedom from slavery — Sierra Leone is another country in West Africa known to tourists for its beaches, islands and many chimpanzees!

China

The third-largest country in the world by area behind Russia and Canada, China is home to history, soaring mountains and the Great Wall, which can be seen from outer space.

There's definitely no shortage of things to do in the country. It was also home to the 2008 Summer and 2022 Winter Olympic Games!

Taiwan

With a mixture of Chinese, Japanese and Korean cultural influences, Taiwan is a small self-governing island off the southeastern coast of China. There is plenty of tension between Taiwan and China, so you might not want to put the two of them together on your trip itinerary.

Taiwan is best known for Taipei, its capital city with the most unbelievable skyline. Tourists can look forward to street food, scenic parks and our favourite Taiwanese invention, bubble tea.

Hong Kong

The final COVID-safe place on the CDC's list also has had a rocky relationship with mainland China. Hong Kong is located on the southern coast of China on the South China Sea.

The region is home to plenty of natural and human-made attractions that offer something for every kind of tourist. Take in the lush mountains and vast skyline from a lookout deck, spend a day at Hong Kong Disneyland or pay a visit to Tian Tan Buddha.

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.