Where to go abroad during the Christmas holidays?

With Christmas and the end of the year holidays looming, where will it be possible to set down one's suitcases outside of France from the planned deconfinement on 15 December? In which countries will we be able to afford holidays in this very special year, when borders are starting to reopen? An overview of the few possibilities available to us. We will therefore not mention the countries that are still closed to French tourists (Denmark, Finland, Hungary, Moldavia and Cyprus in Europe, but also notably the United States, Canada, Senegal, Algeria, Madagascar and almost all of Asia and Oceania), those that impose around forty (Belgium, the Netherlands, Iceland, Norway, Estonia, Latvia, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Tunisia, Ethiopia, Mauritius, Seychelles, Thailand, South Korea, etc.) or those whose hotels and/or museums are closed (Germany, Italy, Slovenia, etc.).).

As for open countries (with or without a PCR test required), it is advisable to be well informed before booking your plane tickets about local restrictions (possible curfew, closing of bars and restaurants or not, etc.). Finally, be aware that the conditions of entry into a given country can obviously change quickly.

In Europe, there are many possibilities

In Europe, there are many options depending on whether or not to do a PCR test before departure

Without a PCR test beforehand, you can pack your suitcases in Luxembourg, a small and little-known border country, where you can enjoy a small capital city with a steep relief, a nature that is ideal for hiking and marked cycling routes. You can also visit Switzerland. Not to head for the ski resorts (according to the latest recommendations of Prime Minister Jean Castex), but to enjoy its gentle way of life, its traditions and its rich heritage

But you can also fly further north, to the north of the continent, to Lithuania for example. You will marvel at the bewitching capital Vilnius, the magic of the national parks and the beauty of the Baltic coast. You can also land in Sweden and enjoy the wonders of the country (despite local travel restrictions), between the wonderful archipelago of Stockholm, a real cultural wealth and breathtaking landscapes

Further east, Poland is a destination with an incredible heritage that has been perfectly rehabilitated and a very accessible nature, just like Bulgaria (even if bars and restaurants are closed for both destinations). Serbia, Montenegro, Northern Macedonia or Albania are also accessible without providing a PCR test.

Finally, continental Portugal is a great option to enjoy the charms of Lusitanian cities such as Lisbon, Porto or Faro

By carrying out a PCR test (usually 48 or 72 hours before departure), the possibilities are multiplied on the Old Continent.

You can set off for Spain to sit on the terraces of Barcelona or visit the great museums and parks of Madrid. Spain is also the archipelago of the Canary Islands and its dream climate all year round: in winter, the island of Tenerife with its 25°C is a must!

In the Atlantic Ocean, Madeira and the Azores, the Portuguese islands, are also accessible with a negative PCR test in the suitcase

Then back to the mainland, where Croatia (beware, bars and restaurants are closed) and Greece allow you to enjoy the coastal cities of the South. Anchored in the heart of the Mediterranean, Crete and Malta also offer a very mild climate. Valletta, the Maltese capital, is a real historical pearl to be discovered absolutely!

In the centre of Europe, you can visitAustria, to admire the wonders of an imperial Vienna under the snow, but also Bratislava and Slovakia, which still perfectly embody the romantic imagination. And what about the Czech Republic and the sublime Prague, this city with a thousand steeples and timeless alleys that always charms with its magic during the festive season? Magic!

Finally, you can discover Istanbul and Turkey under the icy December sun

Beyond the borders of Europe, great journeys are possible

Outside of Europe, faraway journeys are also possible

In North America, Canada and the United States being closed, one will head south to the sunny Mexican beaches. Mexico doesn't even require a test! And, between Tulum and Playa del Carmen, the all-inclusive hotels will welcome you with pleasure. Such as those in the Dominican Republic, always very popular at this time of year, or those in St. Bartholomew's Square. Moreover, the overseas territories (Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint-Martin, French Guiana) should also be accessible for the holidays

Central American countries (Costa Rica, Panama, Belize, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua) are also possible options with its negative PCR test.

In Latin America, one can go and put down one's towel on the beaches of Brazil. An accessible country, like almost the rest of the continent, with the exception of Uruguay and Argentina (the capital Buenos Aires should nevertheless reopen to tourists on 15 December).

In Africa, one can head for the palaces of Morocco and the attractions of Burkina Faso, Benin and Cameroon. But also parks in Namibia, South Africa, Botswana or Tanzania (you can also go and discover the seaside charms of Zanzibar). Unless you opt for the discovery of the incredible Egyptian treasures

In the Middle East, the festivals of Dubai will also make your agapes unforgettable.

Finally, in Asia, only Sri Lanka is expected to reopen on January¹, 2021

To your reservations!