There’s a saying in Hawaii : there’s a cost to paradise. Among the US states, Hawaii had the highest cost of living in 2019, according to the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center. The median price of a single-family home on Oahu is over $1 million. And gas costs nearly $5 a gallon.

But there are still plenty of low-cost ways to enjoy the best of the islands — pristine beaches, local flavors, stunning natural beauty — without sacrificing your experience. Here's how.

Plan a fall or spring vacation

Hawaii is a year-round destination — and that’s good news for budget travelers. You can find deals on airfare and accommodations during the slower shoulder months — September and October, January and February, April and May — avoiding peak travel times like summer, winter and spring break.

Be smart about island-hopping

Why fly all the way to Hawaii and stay on one island? If you’re set on seeing more than one island on your vacation, you should take advantage of cheaper options on interisland airfares. Southwest Airlines, which entered the interisland market in April 2019, offers Wanna Get Away rates— sometimes as low as $39 one way — with no-frills service and no assigned seating. Mokulele Airlines, which operates Cessna 208EX Grand Caravans that seat up to nine passengers and flies into smaller airports, offers round-trip airfare for less than $200 per person.

If you’re on Maui and want to visit Lanaʻi, you can book a ride on the Expeditions Maui-Lanaʻi Passenger Ferry. Tickets start at $30 one way and take about an hour. Bonus: if you’re traveling between islands from January to April, you may see humpback whales along the way.

Read more: When to go to Hawaii

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Or simply stay on one island

Island-hopping can be pricey — you’re paying for additional airfares and accommodations, and if you’re not on Oʻahu, you’ll likely have to rent a car, the price of which fluctuates with demand.

Plus, staying on one island means you can really explore everything it has to offer. Oʻahu is bustling, with tons of restaurants, shopping, beaches, museums, and hiking trails. Maui is just as vibrant, with more country charm and quaint towns like Hana and Makawao. Kauaʻi is the most laid-back of all the islands, with verdant landscapes, breathtaking beaches and a quieter pace. Hawaii Island, aka the Big Island, boasts active volcanoes, rolling ranchlands and old-Hawaii charm.

Read more: How to choose the best Hawaiian island for your trip

Keep your car rental period short

While opting out of renting a car during your entire vacation may be the most cost-effective, it’s also very limiting, even on Oʻahu, which boasts a great public bus system. You’ll want to get out of resort areas and venture into different neighborhoods, find hole-in-the-wall eateries and experience the islands the way locals do. Instead of renting a car for the duration of your stay, consider a car hire for just a few days, keeping your costs under $100.

Use local ridesharing services and rentals

All of the main islands have ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft (with O‘ahu featuring the best coverage), but there are new local services as well. In June 2021 Holoholo, a new rideshare company, launched on Oʻahu, Maui, Kauaʻi, Hawaii Island and Lanaʻi with a wider selection of rides — drivers pre-approved to enter US military bases, hybrid or electric vehicles, luxury rides and options requiring additional mobility assistance. Fares are based on distance and calculated up front, and rides can be scheduled in advance.

Turo also recently entered the Hawaiʻi market, offering the more affordable option of renting vehicles directly from local owners. And Hui Care Share is a round-trip station-based car share program on Oʻahu only, where you can book a vehicle by the hour or day, now or in the future. The service includes more than 50 vehicles parked at stations throughout urban Honolulu — Waikik i, Downtown, Kakaʻako, Ala Moana, Mānoa, Kaimukī — and Ko Olina. The best part? Gas, maintenance and insurance are all included.

Take public transportation

You can also ditch the cars entirely — no worries about parking! — by using public transportation. On Oʻahu, you can use TheBus, a public bus service with a fleet of 542 buses providing daily services on 110 routes all across the island. Adult fares are $2.75 (one way), with discounts for seniors, students, and kids. TheBus conveniently stops at some of the island’s most popular visitor destinations including Waikiki, Ala Moana Center, Bishop Museum, Kualoa Ranch, Polynesian Cultural Center, Pearl Harbor, Waimea Valley and Hanauma Bay. Maui also operates a public bus system with service in various parts of the islands, from Kaʻanapali to Upcountry.

Read more: How to get around in Hawaii

Get around by bike

Another option is to ride around Oʻahu on a bike using the island’s only bikeshare program, Biki, which has 1300 bikes at more than 130 self-service Biki Stops throughout Honolulu. It’s a great option for short jaunts to the beach or to grab lunch nearby. Rides are $4.50 per bike one way, $12 for unlimited rides within 24 hours, or $30 for 300 minutes to use in any increment for one year (the best option to use over an entire vacation stay).

See Hawaii's beaches, trails, and gardens

Enjoy the best parts of Hawaii — its beaches, gardens, parks, and hiking trails — without spending much.

Most beaches in Hawaii are free and accessible year-round. Some — like Hanauma Bay on Oʻahu and Hāʻena State Park on Kauaʻi — require reservations with a small fee for visitors. Hanauma Bay has an online reservation system, limiting the number of visitors to the pristine nature reserve to fewer than 800 a day. It costs $25 per person to enter (free for Hawaii residents and children aged 12 under) and another $3 for parking ($1 for residents). To visit Hāʻena State Park — which includes Kēʻē Beach and the start of the Kalalau Trail along the famed Nāpali Coast — you’ll need to secure a reservation and pay a $5 entry fee and $10 for parking (free for residents).

While state-run hiking trails are normally free to access, some have small fees. It costs $5 to hike to the top of Diamond Head (Lēʻahi in Hawaiian) on Oʻahu or visit the popular ʻIao Valley State Monument on Maui.

Most botanical gardens charge a nominal entrance fee, though some, including the popular city-run Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden on Oʻahu, are free to explore.

Eat affordable local dishes: bento boxes and poke bowls

While each island boasts upscale, farm-to-table restaurants that will break your food budget, Hawaii is also known for its home-style local cuisine. Plate lunches, bento (Japanese box meals) and poke bowls (cubed ahi, raw and seasoned, and served atop rice) are plentiful — and affordable. Get loaded plates of teriyaki beef, shoyu chicken or hamburger steak and gravy at popular drive-ins such as Rainbow Drive-In on Oʻahu, Hawaiian Style Café on Hawaii Island, and Tin Roof Maui on Maui. Seek out okazu-ya (Japenese deli-type eateries), which serve à la carte portions of local favorites — shoyu pork, chow fun noodles, shrimp tempura, and musubi (rice balls). Some popular ones are Kawamoto Store on Hawaii Island, Fukuya Delicatessen on Oʻahu, Honokowai Okazuya & Deli on Maui, and Po’s Kitchen on Kauaʻi. And poke bowls are everywhere — affordable and filling meals you can grab even from convience stores.

If your short-term rental has a kitchen, you may want to save money by cooking in. Hit up one of the many farmers markets run by the Hawaiʻi Farm Bureau Federation or FarmLovers Markets. You’ll meet local farmers, buy fresh and local produce, and even pick up artisan-made gifts such as jams, hot sauces, cookies, vinegars, and honey. Many serve prepared foods, too.

Find free and low-cost activities and tours

You can still immerse yourself in Hawaii and its rich culture without a pricey lūʻau or helicopter tour through free (or cheap) classes around town. Many hotels and malls offer free entertainment and classes in cultural practices such as lei-making, ukulele-playing, and hula. The Royal Hawaiian Center in Waikiki offers all that plus lauhala-weaving and free Hawaiian entertainment. Coconut Marketplace on Kauaʻi has free classes in lei-making, hula, and ukulele. Kāʻanapali Beach Hotel on Maui provide complimentary cultural classes to its guests at its Hale Hoʻokipa; learn hula, kukui restoring, ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language), tapa cloth making, and even pānānā, or traditional navigational techniques.

On Oʻahu you can rent surfboards at stands along Waikiki Beach for about $20, more for a lesson from a beach attendant. Or rent what's called a Fun Island — a giant, anchored floating mat — for $20 an hour from Koa Beach Service in Waikiki.

Opt for self-guided tours to save some money. Hōlualoa Kona Coffee Co on Hawaii Island offers roasting tours and coffee samplings for a small fee. Stroll the grounds of the state’s largest coffee grower, Kauaʻi Coffee Co, at your leisure and learn about coffee and its history in the islands. For about $20 you can go on a walking tour of Oʻahu’s historic Chinatown district with the Hawaiʻi Heritage Center, where you learn about the rich history of the neighborhood, Chinese immigration to Hawaii, and architecture. You will even sample some of the food from neighborhood shops and restaurants.

You can download the Shaka Guide app for self-guided GPS audio tours of popular attractions across the islands. Featured tours include Road to Hana on Maui, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park on Hawaiʻi Island, and Waimea Canyon on Kauaʻi. Each tour cost $14.99 and works offline.

Average cost in Hawaii

Hostel room: $30 to $150 a night
Basic room for two: $150 to $300 a night
Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): $80 (for private room) to $6000 a night (where President Obama stayed in Kailua)
Public transport ticket: Adult fares on TheBus on Oʻahu are $2.75 (one way), with discounts for seniors, students, and kids.
Coffee: $2.25 (hot coffee at Starbucks) to $12 (Kona Estate coffee brewed fresh using the Chemex pour over brewer at Honolulu Coffee Co.)
Sandwich: $6.99 (Andy’s Sandwiches & Smoothie) to $10 (at Sprout)
Dinner for two: $50 to $500
Beer/pint at the bar: $7 to $12.

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It’s possible to visit Hawaii on a budget - here’s how

Albuquerque is the gateway to the Southwest. Set in the center of New Mexico, the city makes a great base for discovering the diverse landscapes and cultures that make the state the Land of Enchantment.

These road trips from Albuquerque explore some of New Mexico’s most exciting and fascinating destinations, and most will have you back in time for dinner and margaritas. Here are seven of our favorite journeys that can be completed in a day from the Duke City.

Go mining for adventure on the Turquoise Trail

Filled with mountain views and Old West history, the Turquoise Trail is the nickname for New Mexico 14, a two-lane road that travels from Tijeras just east of Albuquerque to Santa Fe along the east side of the Sandia Mountains. It gets its sobriquet from the precious mineral that Native Americans mined in Cerrillos and traded throughout the Americas. Travelers along this national scenic highway pass through Cedar Crest with its Greenside Cafe and Rumor Brewing before reaching the turnoff for New Mexico 536 that climbs to the crest of the Sandía Mountains at 10,678ft. In Sandia Park, the Tinkertown Museum is an eclectic collection of outsider art that’s a family favorite (closed November through March).

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Continue north on NM 14 to arrive in Madrid (pronounced MAD-rid) which was a booming coal-mining town in the 1930s. Madrid became a ghost town that was discovered by free spirits in the 1960s, and old mining shacks were once again inhabited and fixed up. Today the town’s historic mining buildings are brightly colored art galleries, cafés and museums. The next stop on the trip is Cerrillos, such the epitome of an Old West town that it’s been featured in several movies including Young Guns. New life here hasn’t detracted from its ghost town feel, and the Black Bird Saloon and Cerrillos Station mercantile store and gallery have joined longtime businesses like the Casa Grande Trading Post, Cerrillos Turquoise Mining Museum and the Cerrillos Petting Zoo. Cerrillos Hills State Park has information about the area’s Native American turquoise mining and has hiking trails through the rolling Ortiz Mountains. From Cerrillos, Santa Fe is just a few miles north. The entire trip from Tijeras to Santa Fe is only 60 miles, but give yourself plenty of time to explore.

How to get to the Turquoise Trail: From Albuquerque, travel I-40 east to Exit 175 at Tijeras, then take NM 14 north toward Santa Fe.

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Take the train to Santa Fe

Santa Fe is an hour-and-a-half drive north of Albuquerque via I-25 but a more scenic, fun and environmentally friendly option is to take the New Mexico Rail Runner Express train. The train departs from several stations throughout Albuquerque and follows the Rio Grande corridor to the Santa Fe Depot Station. Local cafes, restaurants, breweries and boutiques have popped up around the historic depot, creating a destination itself in the Santa Fe Railyard District. Explore Santa Fe’s newest neighborhood, then enjoy a pleasant 15-minute walk east to the Santa Fe Plaza. Known for its fine-art galleries, Canyon Road is another half-mile stroll east of the plaza. The interactive art funhouse Meow Wolf has become a must-see destination, and you can hail a ride service from the depot for the 4-mile trip.

How to get to Santa Fe via train: Visit the New Mexico Rail Runner Express website for schedules. Parking is available at stations throughout the Albuquerque area, including the Alvarado Transit Station in downtown Albuquerque.

Explore Chaco Culture National Historical Park

A journey to remote Chaco Culture National Historical Park pushes the limits for a road trip from Albuquerque at three hours one-way, but it’s well worth the beautiful drive on US 550 for anyone interested in Native American culture, history, archaeology and desert hiking. Called Chaco Canyon locally, this park protects the remains of large structures called Great Houses built by ancestral Puebloans from roughly 700 to 1100 CE. These impressive buildings are aligned with astronomical events to mark the seasons, and it is thought the area served as a religious and governmental capital with trade routes that extended throughout North America. A small museum displays an array of artifacts including turquoise jewelry, copper bells and macaw feathers from Mexico, and beautiful pottery and jewelry excavated from Great Houses. A paved loop allows visitors to drive to many of the Great Houses, and backcountry hiking trails extend to more ruins overlooking the high desert landscape that is little changed from 1000 years ago. Services are few here so make sure to pack plenty of water and snacks, and top off the gas tank before adventuring to this World Heritage destination.

How to get to Chaco Culture National Historical Park: Take I-25 to US 550 at Bernalillo, then travel US 550 for 133 miles and follow park signs. The last 16 miles into the park are unpaved and can be impassable after rain or snow.

Journey to Acoma Pueblo (Sky City)

The Pueblo of Acoma is one of the 19 Pueblo nations that have been in New Mexico since time immemorial, and its village of Sky City is one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in North America. Respectful visitors can learn about the history, culture and traditions of Sky City, which was built upon a towering mesa top 365ft above the desert floor. Tours lead visitors up the mesa and through the ancient streets and alleyways lacing between adobe homes that have served many generations. Guides explain the history and day-to-day traditional living at Sky City such as baking bread in domed ovens and collecting rainwater. At the Sky City Cultural Center and Haak’u Museum, learn more about Acoma culture and history through exhibits, purchase pottery and jewelry at the Gaits’i gallery, and enjoy Pueblo favorites such as blue corn enchiladas and contemporary dishes at the Yaak’a Cafe.

How to get to Acoma Pueblo: Take I-40 west for 100 miles to Exit 102, then follow signs to the Sky City Cultural Center.

Enjoy country living in Corrales

Located just minutes north of Albuquerque, quiet Corrales is a rural farming village along the west bank of the Rio Grande. Walking trails weave through the cottonwoods lining the river in the Corrales Bosque Preserve, and wildlife including Canada geese and sandhill cranes is frequently seen. Local shops offer everything from horse tack to fine art, and restaurants like the Indigo Crow and Perea’s Tijuana Bar offer a range of meals and patio dining. Ex Novo Brewery, Corrales Bistro and other watering holes serve New Mexico craft beer, and guests are welcome to stroll the vineyards of Corrales’ three wineries. Casa San Ysidro Museum, an extension of the Albuquerque Museum, is housed in a 19th-century ranch home and interprets life in New Mexico pre-statehood. Driving from Albuquerque north along Rio Grande Boulevard to Corrales, you’ll pass through the Village of Los Ranchos de Albuquerque where Casa Rondeña Winery and Los Poblanos Inn and Organic Farm are well worth a visit.

How to get to Corrales: Take Rio Grande Boulevard north to Alameda Boulevard, then travel west on Alameda to Corrales Road/New Mexico 448 and turn north.

Go for a soak in Jemez Springs

The Village of Jemez Springs an hour northwest of Albuquerque is known for its hot springs, the result of the Jemez (pronounced Hey-mez) Mountains’ volcanic past. Enjoy a hot soak at any of several inns and bathhouses here with mountain views including Jemez Hot Springs and the historic Jemez Springs Bath House. Jemez Springs’ tiny downtown has the local-favorite Los Ojos Restaurant and Saloon and a few shops and galleries, and the nearby Jemez Historic Site preserves the ruins of a 17th-century pueblo village and Spanish mission. At about an hour from Albuquerque Jemez Springs makes for a fun destination, or include it on a longer road trip as part of the Jemez Mountain Trail National Scenic Byway that eventually loops back to Albuquerque via Santa Fe. On the drive to Jemez Springs, make sure to stop at the Pueblo of Jemez’s Walatowa Visitor Center and picturesque Red Rock Canyon to learn about the area’s first inhabitants.

How to get to Jemez Springs: Head north on I-25 to Bernalillo, where you’ll take US 550 northwest for 25 miles to San Ysidro, then take New Mexico 4 north for 17 miles.

Hike through surreal tent rocks

An hour north of Albuquerque, Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument contains surreal cone-shaped rock formations capped by balanced boulders, delighting hikers and photographers 7 million years after their formation. This whole area was buried under volcanic ash when a supervolcano, now Valles Caldera National Preserve, erupted and covered northern New Mexico under hundreds of feet of ash and debris. Boulders compressed and hardened the ash creating the cone shapes while the noncompressed ash weathered away, leaving these formations that can be as tall as 90ft. Three hiking trails pass through this otherworldly landscape, climbing through slot canyons to an overlook that surveys some of the largest formations and the Jemez, Sandia and Sangre de Cristo mountain ranges beyond.

How to get to Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument: Drive north on I-25 to Exit 259 onto New Mexico 22. Drive 14.5 miles to the turn at Indian Service Rte 92, and follow signs to the monument. The route to the  monument passes through Cochiti Pueblo land and is subject to Tribal closures. Visit the website to verify access first.

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The subtropical island of Bermuda is distinguished for its powdery-sand beaches lapped by the shallow, turquoise waves of the Atlantic Ocean. However, there’s more to do than just relax on the beach on this British Overseas Territory.

Any local will proudly take you from one tip of the fishhooked island to the other, covering a historical navy yard, sprawling botanical gardens, a pastel city center, a Unesco World Heritage Site, and of course, a strip of world class beaches. Here are the best places to visit on a trip to Bermuda.

South Shore

Best beaches

Bermuda is only 21-miles-long and measures just one mile at its widest point, so the ocean is never too far from sight. The South Shore is a scenic strip of rosy-hued powdery beaches. Head to Horseshoe Bay for white sand and calm blue waters, Warwick Long Bay for intimate coves and the pinkest sand you’ll ever see, Church Bay for snorkeling, and Elbow Beach for an unforgettable sunset.

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Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve

Best for a serene afternoon

Venture to the southeastern tip of the island and you’ll discover where island residents head for the weekend to barbecue and picnic. The 12-acre Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve is filled with forested walking trails and shallow bays, formerly a restricted area occupied by the U.S. military and later, a NASA space tracking station until 1995.

Today, visitors can enjoy the lesser-frequented beaches of Clearwater and Turtle Bay. Make sure to bring food and drinks for a lovely picnic. The rest of the day should include a casual walk in the reserve and end with spotting turtles and seabirds at Cooper’s Island Beach.

A bird you’re sure to see soaring above the azure waters is the Longtail (or the White Tailed Tropicbird) with its distinctive black markings on its white feathers. Bermudians consider this bird a signal of spring.

Bermuda’s 14 best beaches

Botanical Gardens

Best for nature enthusiasts

On the relatively flat rock formation that is Bermuda, it’s somewhat magical to visit a different kind of sea — a sea of green. The Bermuda Botanical Gardens consist of 35 acres of lush vegetation, including Bermuda cedars, subtropical fruit and Banyan trees, cacti, and an aromatic garden.

Visitors can walk through the gardens at leisure or join a free walking tour offered on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 10:30 am (call ahead to confirm). You’ll also find Masterworks Art Museum here. Housed in a former arrowroot-processing factory, Masterworks showcases photographs, paintings and sketches from local artists.

Also located in the Botanical Gardens is the Camden House. This 1700s Georgian mansion is the official residence of the Bermuda Premiere and a reflection of traditional Bermudian architecture.

Make sure to stop by Salty Time at Homer’s Cafe, which is open for breakfast and lunch.

Hamilton

Best for experiencing local flair

It might be hard to believe, but the beautiful pastel yellow and pink houses that line Front Street are operational buildings where residents work. Aside from being the island’s capital where the majority of residents work, downtown Hamilton is a bustling cluster of retailers, restaurants, and bars.

If you’re a shopper, you’ll want to visit Atelerie for clothing, and The Island Shop for hand-painted designer goods like plates, glasses, pillowcases and table runners.

The English Sports Shop showcases more traditional island attire, and you may even be able to pick up a pair of Bermuda shorts (which you’ll notice is a wardrobe staple for male office workers).

Foodies must stop at Huckleberry in the Rosedon Hotel for brunch, Marcus’ (temporarily closed) at the Hamilton Princess for lunch, and reserve Barracuda Grill for a fine dining seafood meal. If you’re into the English pub scene, Astwood Arms offers a similar vibe, while Yours Truly speakeasy is a more bespoke experience with craft cocktails.

When is the best time to go to Bermuda?

St George’s

Best for history buffs

The parish of St. George’s occupies Bermuda’s East End. From the airport that once acted as the U.S. Army Air Force and Royal Air Force base to the town of St. George, a Unesco World Heritage Site, this area is brimming with history.

At the center of St. George is a plethora of local boutiques and St. Peter’s Church, the oldest continuously used Protestant church in the New World.

Stop for a fish sandwich and a Dark ‘n Stormy at White Horse Pub on the waterfront, or venture a little further out to Swizzle Inn – Bermuda’s oldest pub and synonymous with the potent rum drink of the island.

No trip to the East End of the island is complete without stopping by Fort St. Catherine. While 90 other 17th-century forts dot the island, this artillery fortress overlooks the original reef where the founders of Bermuda shipwrecked in 1609.

Today, The St. Regis Bermuda Resort turned unused land surrounding the fort into luxurious accommodations for guests keen on learning Bermuda’s history without leaving their hotel room.

This side of the island also houses Tobacco Bay – a truly local beach bar scene, Crystal Caves –  an underground formation from the Ice Age and Tom Moore’s Jungle – a nature reserve where you can swim through the protected limestone caves.

Dockyard

Best for maritime fans

On the island’s west side, Royal Naval Dockyard is Bermuda’s former naval base from the 1700s to 1995 (the end of the Cold War). This area is deemed “Her Majesty’s Dockyard” and represents a powerful symbol of the island’s significant past.

Today, the Dockyard is a tourist draw with locally-inspired boutiques and retailers, including The Bermuda Rum Cake Company, for rum-soaked treats.

Stop by The National Museum of Bermuda, which houses over 75,000 artifacts dedicated to the island’s maritime history. Be sure to check out the museum’s underwater collection of excavated artifacts from shipwrecks spanning five centuries.

For good ole’ English pub grub, head to the Frog & Onion Pub located in the mid-18th century Cooperage in the Dockyard. Right next door is the islands’ only microbrewery - The Dockyard Brewing company.

Visit Snorkel Park Beach for an afternoon of watersports, casual food and cocktails. Take the ferry for added maritime value; experiencing Bermuda from the water is indescribable.

Gibbs Hill Lighthouse

Best view of the island

Located in Southampton Parish along the famed South Shore strip of beaches, Gibbs Hill occupies one of the few “hills” on the island. Climb the winding 185 steps to the top of the lighthouse (built in 1846) for one of the best views of the verdant island permeated with white limestone roofs — painted, treated and designed to help catch rainfall, which the island relies on as a primary water source — and of course, the aquamarine harbors.

Head back down to the base for lunch or dinner at Tamarind, a new Indian restaurant at Gibbs Lighthouse.

Tucker’s Town

Best for golfers

On an island renowned for its world-acclaimed golf courses, Tucker’s Town sits above the rest. Fueled by the opening of Rosewood Hotels in 2009, this area oozes luxury.

Mid Ocean Clu b and Tucker’s Point Golf Course cater to the premium golfer. They’ve hosted various PGA Tour events, including the PGA Grand Slam.

You don’t need to be a professional to play at either 18-hole course, but you will need to pay a pretty penny. When you finish up your match, head to either club’s private beach for a relaxing way to beat the heat in style.

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Hi, I’m Dr. Jenny Yu, Healthline ’s Medical Expert and Lonely Planet Travel Health Expert. Welcome to my column, where each week I’ll share stories and insights, experiences and opportunities, and perspectives on how you can take the "well" traveled path in your journeys.

The news of the Omicron variant, now detected in several countries, has the world reeling in uncertainty again. With borders closing and more restrictions in place, it gives us pause to think about travel and gathering together. More information regarding this variant will be available in the days and weeks ahead. My advice is that we should not panic, but rather be reminded of what has worked so far - vaccinations, masks, and hygiene.

Booster shots can be an important tool in the fight. Studies have shown that the immune protection offered by our current vaccines wanes after so many months. A booster is recommended for all individuals who are older than 18 years of age.

While we are still trying to understand this new variant, having more immunity offers better protection. Data suggest that a mix-and-match approach offers similar benefits as obtaining the same brand booster as your initial dose or doses. A mix-and-match strategy is particularly effective for those who have received the one-dose Johnson & Johnson or the Astra-Zeneca vaccine, to be boosted by an mRNA-type vaccine such as the Pfizer or Moderna.

For those who have had a previous infection, the vaccine is still recommended. Hybrid immunity (previous infection + vaccination) offers better protection than previous infection alone.

Our immune system is complex. Different combinations of immunity - vaccinations with a booster, previous infection - will reduce transmission and disease severity. Now, our race is to vaccinate the world so that we can stop the spread.

Answering your questions on boosters, face masks and more

We know that you have questions as we all deal with continued uncertainty. We crowd-sourced the ones below from our social channels and hope the answers are helpful to you as you consider your end-of-year plans.

Question: Other than getting the booster (if we can!) and masking up, is there anything else we should do to make flying/crowded airports safer?
The booster, in light of the Omicron variant, is more important than ever. If it is available, I would advise it, prior to traveling. Paying attention to our basic hygiene is another way to stay safe - washing our hands, not touching our face, wiping down high-touch surfaces such as the armrest, seat tray, etc.

Question: What should I look for when deciding what type of face mask to wear on a train/plane?
Fit is the most important factor when deciding on a mask. Look for a mask that can wrap around your entire lower face so that it covers your nose, mouth and chin. For people with a wider face, a kf-94 type mask offers the most coverage without causing discomfort. Medical masks such as N-95 and others with multiple layers offer better protection as well.

Question: How can we be safer indoors when most people won't be masked up?
Good ventilation and air circulation can decrease the risks indoors when most people are not masked. If your risk tolerance is low, it would still be good to mask when others are not masked. Having some protection is better than none.

Question: Should I attend large family gatherings with young unvaccinated children?
It depends. The safest scenario would be that all the adults are vaccinated, and the children have tested negative prior to the gathering. If there are unvaccinated adults, it may be safer to gather outdoors, or use testing as a safer strategy to be together.

Question: My child has her first dose of the COVID shot but not the second - is she safe to be around holiday gatherings with family members?
A first dose offers some protection, which is better than none. If all of the other family members are vaccinated, then the risk of transmission is very low. If there are unvaccinated family members, it may be a good idea to test prior to gathering.

Question: How soon before and how long after travel should I do a test?
Testing requirements continue to change country to country. However, most require a negative test within 72 hours of travel and 2-4 days after arrival. The testing after arrival would pick up any exposure during travel.

For more information on COVID-19 and travel, check out Lonely Planet's Health Hub.

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The Well-Traveled Path: Dr. Jenny Yu answers your questions on Omicron, boosters and more

With notoriously bad traffic and next-to-impossible parking, it's best to avoid driving until it's time to leave San Francisco. Fortunately, there are plenty of excellent ways to get around.

Most locals walk, bike, ride Muni (the public transit network of buses and streetcars) or ride-share instead of taking a car. The city also has three cable car lines that are frequent, slow and scenic; riding one is a must for first-time visitors. Here's how to navigate San Francisco.

Explore San Francisco on foot

Regularly ranked as one of the most walkable cities in the US, most major sights in San Francisco are reachable on foot and walking is always the best way to explore a neighborhood.

Starting in 2020, numerous streets across the city are closed to vehicular traffic one or more days a week — some, such as John F Kennedy Dr in Golden Gate Park, are now closed for the foreseeable future.

Walking trails

San Francisco has plenty of guided walking tours on offer. But you can easily just set off on your own for a great day of exploring, especially in such locales as the Presidio. It has a number of trails outlined by SF Crosstown Trails, which connect the city’s neighborhoods, open spaces, and local trails.

Their epic, eponymous 17-mile trail from Candlestick Point to Lands End is divided into five sections, which can be tackled separately and give a great overview of the city.

Cycle along the waterfront

San Francisco aims to be the most bike-friendly city in the US, and many locals have already jumped on the saddle. Many areas, such as Ocean Beach, the Marina and the waterfront are ideal for cycling.

San Francisco has an extensive bike network and most sights are reachable on two wheels. The network covers 448 miles. A map of the bike network is available. The non-profit San Francisco Bicycle Coalition also offers maps and information for cyclists.

Bike Share

Bike-sharing is available citywide through Bay Wheels. Both traditional bikes and e-bikes (electric bikes with removable batteries) can be hired from stations throughout San Francisco, the East Bay and San Jose, and are available for single trips, day use or with monthly access passes.

Bay Wheels stations are located downtown, and at major intersections – but bikes come without helmets, and biking without proper protection is dangerous so bring your own helmet.

You can use Muni to see every part of San Francisco

Muni operates bus, streetcar and cable car lines. Buses and streetcars are referred to interchangeably as Muni. Some areas are better connected than others, but Muni spares you the costly hassle of driving and parking – and it's often faster than driving.

Muni streetcars run in a subway under Market Street, where they are called Muni Metro. Lines J, K, L, M, N and T are excellent means of reaching far-flung parts of the city. There is also the delightful historic streetcar line F, which runs above ground on Market Street and runs to Fisherman’s Wharf along the waterfront.

A new subway line linking the Giants stadium, Caltrain terminal, downtown and Chinatown is set to open in 2022. It will allow easy transfers to all the streetcar lines.

Map and schedule

For route planning and schedules, consult Transit 511. For real-time departures, see www.nextmuni.com, which syncs with GPS on buses and streetcars to provide best estimates on arrival times.

Essential and free Muni Street and Transit Maps are available online. Also useful is the MuniMobile app, which you can also use to pay fares. Note that service and schedules are constantly changing due to Covid-19, so check all routes and schedules in advance.

Nighttime schedule

Nighttime and weekend service is less frequent than on weekdays. Owl service (half-hourly from 1am to 5am) operates only on a few principal lines; for schedules, see All Nighter 511.

Tickets and costs

On buses and streetcars, tickets bought from drivers (exact change required) or at underground Muni stations (where machines give change) cost $3. With a reloadable Clipper card or by using the MuniMobile app, the fare is only $2.50. A single fare is good for two hours of rides.

Fares are 50% less for people age 65 and older. Anyone age 18 or younger rides for free.

At the start of your Muni journey, free transfer tickets are available for additional Muni trips within 90 minutes (not including cable cars or BART). After 8:30pm, buses issue a Late Night Transfer good for travel until 5:30am the following morning.

Cable car tickets

Cable car tickets cost $8 per ride and can be bought at cable car ticket kiosks or on-board from the conductor.

Muni Visitor Passport passes

A Muni Visitor Passport (1/3/7 days $24/36/47, with the MuniMobile app $13/31/41) allows unlimited travel on all Muni transportation, including cable cars. It's sold at ticket kiosks and other locations.

Muni Day Pass

The great bargain on the Muni is the day pass which costs only $5 whether bought with the MuniMobile app or at a farebox or kiosk. It allows unlimited rides on the entire system except for the cable cars.

Clipper Card

Clipper Cards are a reloadable fare system that works on Muni, BART and other transit systems across the Bay Area. It automatically deducts fares and applies transfers (e.g. only one Muni fare is deducted per 90-minute period). You can put a Clipper Card on your phone for free or purchase a physical card for $3.

Downtown Muni/BART stations have machines that sell Clipper cards and fare credit. Clipper Cards, whether virtual on your phone or in physical form, can be linked to a credit card so that they automatically refill with value.

Go beyond the city center on the BART

BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit system) is the fastest link between downtown and San Francisco International Airport, Oakland and Berkeley. Four of the system's six lines pass through SF. BART serves downtown, Market Street and the Mission District well but does not reach most other areas of the city.

Tickets and fares

The reloadable Clipper Card system is the only way to pay your fare on BART. You can buy one for a one-time fee of $3 at BART stations, or purchase one virtually and install it on your phone (this is free). Note, if you’re arriving at SFO, set up your phone with a Clipper Card before you arrive so you can avoid the long lines of jet-lagged passengers trying to use the BART ticket machines.

BART fares are based on distance, so you’ll need your Clipper Card (or phone) to both enter and exit the system. The fare from SFO to downtown San Francisco is $9.65.

Go for a day trip on the train

Caltrain is the train service linking San Francisco to cities along the Peninsula south of the city and on to the South Bay and San Jose. It runs services at least hourly throughout the day and is reasonably fast and very comfortable.

Buy tickets from machines in stations, using the Caltrain app or with a Clipper Card. From the depot at 4th and King Sts in San Francisco, Caltrain heads south to Millbrae (connecting to BART and San Francisco airport; 30 minutes), Palo Alto (one hour) and San Jose (1½ hours).

Rest your weary legs in a taxi

Taxi fares start at $3.50 and run about $3 per mile. Add 15% to the fare as a tip ($1 minimum). For the quickest service in San Francisco, download the Flywheel app, which dispatches the nearest taxi.

Lyft and Uber are based in San Francisco and are ubiquitous. Note that with surge pricing, traditional taxis are often cheaper.

Take to the water and travel by ferry

The iconic Ferry Building is a destination in itself, not the least for its excellent eating and drinking options plus the great bay views. It also is the base for ferry routes that radiate out across the Bay Area.

Alcatraz

Alcatraz City Cruises runs the boats for the National Park Service that serve ‘The Rock.’ Boats depart from Pier 33 throughout the day; advance reservations are essential.

East Bay

San Francisco Bay Ferry operates from both Pier 41 and the Ferry Building to Oakland/Alameda, Richmond and Vallejo in the East Bay.

Marin County

Golden Gate Transit Ferries runs regular ferry services from the Ferry Building to Marin County ferry terminals in Larkspur, Tiburon and Sausalito. These ferries pass Alcatraz and offer great sightseeing in addition to vital transit.

Blue & Gold Fleet operates ferries to Tiburon and Sausalito from Pier 41 near Fisherman’s Wharf.

How to navigate the hassle of a car or motorbike

If you can, avoid driving in San Francisco: heavy traffic is a given, street parking is harder to find than true love, meter readers are ruthless and vehicle break-ins are a plague.

Traffic

San Francisco streets mostly follow a grid bisected by Market St. Avoid driving during rush hours. Before heading to any bridge, airport or other traffic choke-point, check 511.org for traffic updates.

Parking

For real-time details on how to find parking in the city, and also how to pay your parking meter by app, see SF Park. Parking is tricky and costly, especially downtown. Hotel parking costs $30 to $60 per day, about the same as public parking lots and garages.

Parking Restrictions

Parking restrictions are indicated by the following color-coded sidewalk curbs (in some popular neighborhoods, it can seem like all of the few available parking spots have restrictions):

● Blue Disabled parking only; placard required.

● Green Ten-minute parking zone from 9am to 6pm.

● Red No parking or stopping.

● White For picking up or dropping off passengers only; note posted times.

● Yellow Loading zone during posted times.

Rental

All major car rental firms operate at SFO (San Francisco International Airport) and at locations across the city and region. Rates vary depending on demand – when large conventions come to SF, you may find no cars available at all. Note that taxes and fees greatly increase the initial rates quoted.

A smart strategy is to avoid renting a car during your time in the city and wait until you venture further afield. Note that anything left visible in a car is considered fair game for smash-and-grab thieves.

Accessible transportation in San Francisco

Muni, BART, Caltrain and the ferries are all fully accessible. The city streets are also mostly accessible to people with differing mobility needs.

For more information on accessible travel, download Lonely Planet's free Accessible Travel ebook.

Why I love walking in San Francisco

I’ve walked cumulatively thousands of miles in San Francisco. Even on routes I’m very familiar with, there is always a new discovery. Whether it’s an idiosyncratic shop, a beautiful piece of street art, the wafting enticement of a bakery or just a surprise view that dazzles, I am never bored exploring the city by the bay on foot.

I pair my adventures with the incredible Muni Day Pass, which for only $5 lets me pop around the city between walks all day – and night – long.

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The arc of rainforest-cloaked mountains that gave this corner of southeast Queensland its name is laced with dozens of beautiful and well-maintained hiking trails, from easy short walks to epic multi-day tramps. Lace your boots for the best hikes in Australia’s Scenic Rim, one of Lonely Planet’s top 10 regions to visit for 2022.

Home to six national parks, four of which form part of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, the Scenic Rim is the ultimate rainforest hiking hub. These national parks cradle the agricultural heart of the Scenic Rim, west of the Gold Coast, that’s home to wineries, breweries, farm-gate stalls and even a camel milk products-focused cafe, meaning there are plenty of delicious ways to treat yourself when you emerge from the forest.

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Scenic Rim Trail

Best multi-day hike
47km one-way / 29 miles, 4 days

Tracing a dramatic ridgeline in Main Range National Park, on the western fringe of the Scenic Rim, Queensland’s first “Great Walk” pairs ancient Gondwana Rainforests with stellar views, lush waterfalls and pioneer heritage on a four-day trek from Thornton View Trailhead, 90 minutes southwest of Brisbane, to Cunninghams Gap.

There are two ways to tackle this multi-day adventure. Opt for a luxury guided experience with boutique hotel group Spicers Retreats, which launched the trail in partnership with Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service in 2020. With private, eco-luxe camps tucked well off the public trail, the Spicers version is around 13km (8 miles) longer than an independent hike. But with your luggage shuttled ahead each day, it’s more accessible for people unable (or unwilling) to carry four days’ worth of gear. Public campsites are basic (don’t expect showers), but at AUD$6.75 (USD$4.83) per night, this option is a bargain.

Ascending through native bushland to the ridgeline on day one is the most challenging part of the trail. The following morning, you’ll pass several relics from the area’s logging days before venturing deep into the rainforest, where you could spend a lifetime counting the shades of green surrounding you.

Passing several waterfalls and viewpoints, the undulating trail is more manageable from day two onward. On day four, the Bare Rock viewpoint overlooking the farmlands of the Scenic Rim makes an ideal lunch spot before descending to the Cunningham Highway, where the trail ends.

Mt Barney

Best mountain climb
17.5km return / 11 miles, 1 day

The pinnacle of bushwalking in southeast Queensland, Mt Barney (1354m) is a challenging, strenuous climb that should only be attempted by hikers with extensive bushwalking, scrambling and navigation experience (a GPS and personal locator beacon is essential). The views from the rugged mountain peak in the remote southwestern corner of the Scenic Rim, which features prominently in local Aboriginal Dreaming stories, more than make up for the effort.

There are two routes to the summit. Allow eight to 10 hours to ascend the East Ridge route, which traverses steep ridges and involves several climbs. When you reach the saddle, there’s still about 267m (876ft) in altitude to climb before summiting on East Peak; allow an hour and a half each way for this section. While shorter at seven to nine hours, the South East Ridge route is much steeper, requiring a higher level of fitness and skill. Both routes descend via the East Ridge route to Upper Logan Rd (where you can park).

Ravaged by Australia’s 2019-20 bushfires, Mt Barney National Park (120km/75 miles southwest of Brisbane) is now making a remarkable recovery. To learn more about this wild corner of Gondwana, opt for a guided interpretive hike. Bookable through nearby Mt Barney Lodge, a guide also boosts your safety because it’s very easy to get lost on this trail.

Coomera Circuit

Best for waterfalls
17.4km / 10.8 miles return, 7 hours

One of the most scenic walks in the Binna Burra section of Lamington National Park, the well-marked Coomera Circuit is a gorgeous day hike that passes through subtropical and warm temperate rainforest communities home to a series of lush waterfalls, including the Coomera and Yarrabilgong waterfalls that plunge off rainforest-covered cliffs into a 160m-deep (525ft) gorge.

Making a loop from the Binna Burra Upper Day Use Area, an hour’s drive west of the Gold Coast, this trail is best hiked counterclockwise to avoid a steep incline at the end, leaving the Border Track after 1.9km (1.2 miles), then ascending along the edge of Coomera Gorge. Look out for the distinctive blue-and-white Lamington spiny crayfish as you trace the path of the Coomera River through the verdant forest. You’ll cross the river several times (via conveniently placed stepping stones) before rejoining the Border Track and returning to the Binna Burra trailhead.

Curtis Falls Track

Best for families
1.1km / 0.7 miles return, 30 minutes

Ideal for little hikers lacking the stamina (or the attention span) for a longer tramp, this enchanting out-and-back walk in the Joalah section of Tamborine National Park is also one of the Scenic Rim’s most accessible, just a 45-minute drive northwest from the heart of the Gold Coast.

Beginning beneath towering gums, the easy walk gradually descends into lush rainforest. Feel the temperature drop as you admire beautiful staghorn ferns in the canopy above. Meandering alongside Curtis Creek, the trail ends at a platform at the base of small but stunning Curtis Falls. Swimming in the serene pool below is off limits, but the view makes for terrific photos. Look closely and you might spot freshwater turtles basking on rocks or logs.

Got more energy? Extend this hike by connecting it with the Lower Creek Circuit (2.5km/1.6 miles return) which branches off the Curtis Falls Track. Allow around an hour to complete this charming rainforest walk, with several creek crossings making it a little more challenging.

Border Track

Best for adventure
21.4 km / 13.3 miles, 7 hours

Trek into the heartland of the Gondwana Rainforests on this full-day hike connecting the Green Mountains and Binna Burra sections of Lamington National Park. The long but rewarding journey traces the border of Queensland and New South Wales, taking you through subtropical and temperate rainforests, into lush gullies and valleys, across crystal-clear mountain streams, past ethereal waterfalls, and along prominent ridgelines. The first 700m (0.4 miles) is wheelchair accessible.

Many trails radiate from the Border Track, the backbone of the Lamington walking track system.

This includes a short, steep 600m/0.4-mile return side-track that leads to two lookouts – Beereenbano and Merino – well worth the detour for the awesome views over the Tweed and Limpinwood valleys. During winter months, listen for the distinctive ringing call of the Albert’s lyrebird, thought to be descended from the world’s oldest songbird.

The trail is bookended by Binna Burra Lodge and O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, both of which offer rooms, camping, and one-way Saturday morning transfers to the opposite trailhead, allowing you to hike back to your accommodation (or car). Whichever way you go, it’s easily one of the most memorable ways to spend a day in the Scenic Rim.

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With its famous pink-sand beaches, pastel-colored houses trimmed with bougainvillea, and a melange of British, African, Portuguese and Caribbean cultures, balmy Bermuda is a favorite for sunny getaways year-round.

The island ticks all the boxes for a tropical escape. Bermuda's eclectic, colorful heritage is reflected in its food, art and music, and there are plenty of ways to get active in the sun, when you aren't enjoying the stunning beaches.

Whether you’re coming by cruise ship or plane, entering and leaving Bermuda is relatively straightforward, but requirements vary depending on your nationality. Here's a guide to Bermuda’s entry requirements, from info on visas to details on how to apply for temporary residency and permission to work in Bermuda.

Visiting Bermuda without a visa

You can visit Bermuda without a visa or permit if you’re a British, or a citizen of the US or Canada, regardless of whether you come to Bermuda as a tourist, business traveler or work permit holder. All you need is a passport (valid for the proposed duration of your stay) plus tickets for return or onward travel.

There's some small print. Travel tickets must show the Booking Reference Number, destination and departure date and time, and you must also produce a valid visa for the country you are traveling to next (if one is needed). Note that credit-card-sized US passport cards are not accepted for air travel – you'll need your actual paper passport.

How can other nationalities visit Bermuda?

As of 2014, Bermuda no longer issues entry visas or visa waivers to visitors, regardless of nationality or purpose of their visit. However, if you’re a citizen of any other country besides the UK, Canada or the United States, you must show a valid passport, return or onward tickets and proof that you have the right to re-enter either the US, UK or Canada (depending on your port of transit), since you will have to pass through one of these three countries to reach Bermuda.

This proof may take the form of a Multi Re-Entry Visa (MRV), if one is required to enter the UK, US or Canada. Proof that you can re-enter these countries is required even if you are just passing through the airport to catch a connecting flight to Bermuda. MRVs and passports must be valid for at least 45 days past the expiration of your stay in Bermuda. You may also be asked to show proof of booked accommodation for your stay.

Requirements for permanent residents

If you’re a permanent resident of the US, UK or Canada, rather than a citizen, on arrival in Bermuda you must produce proof of right of abode in one of the three countries. British and Canadian residents must show a Permanent Resident Card, while those living in the US need to show either a Permanent Residence Card (Green Card) or an original certificate of US naturalization, as well as some government-issued photo ID.

Return or onward tickets and a passport valid for 45 days beyond your booked departure date from Bermuda are additional entry requirements. If you’re a woman traveling under your married name, but your identification is under your maiden name, you must also produce a certified copy of your marriage certificate.

How long can tourists stay in Bermuda?

The maximum length of stay for tourists has been extended to 180 days as of August 1, 2020. To extend your stay beyond this 180-day maximum, you'll have to request annual residency from the Department of Immigration.

The application process for residency involves placing a sealed envelope in the dropbox on the 2nd floor of the Government Administration Building outside the Department of Immigration Headquarters at 30 Parliament Street in Hamilton.

Full details and application forms are available online, but the envelope must contain the following supporting documents:

a completed Application for Residence Form
proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay (such as a recent bank statement)
proof of health insurance covering the requested residency period
an official police certificate from your country of residence confirming that you have no criminal record
proof of online payment of the US$263 processing fee

How to work in Bermuda

Until recently, working in Bermuda required a work permit and a job offer from a Bermuda-based company. However, from August 1, 2020, Bermuda has been offering special "Work from Bermuda" residency certificates, valid for up to a year, to digital nomads and students of all nationalities who wish to either work or study remotely while based on the island.

The online application costs US$263, and applicants must be over 18 years old, with valid health insurance and a clean criminal record. You'll need to present evidence that you are employed by a legitimate company, or enrolled in a recognized study program, and have a continuous source of income.

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With rich history, vibrant traditions and glorious nature everywhere you look, Sweden is made for road trips.

The country’s comprehensive network of highways and secondary roads is well maintained, and even dirt roads tend for the most part to be relatively smooth gravel and dust than suspension-jolting rutted tracks. Though many attractions are accessible by public transportation, one of the joys of a Swedish road trip is all the unexpected discoveries along the way, from secluded lakes to endless views, charming cities and towns to archaeological sites dating back a thousand years. Here, from north to south, are nine driving routes that showcase the best of Sweden.

Best Arctic road

Kiruna to the Norwegian border

Kiruna-Riksgränsen and back; 163 miles (262km); allow at least a day

Mountains, lakes and forest are the main attractions on this gorgeous 82-mile (131km) stretch of route E10, one of the most northerly roads in Sweden. The road hugs the south shore of Torneträsk, Sweden’s largest alpine lake, passing through Abisko, one of the jewels of the national park system, and providing excellent views of Lapporten, the region’s iconic U-shaped mountain.

Unless you’re also planning on visiting Norway, you’ll have to turn around at Riksgränsen and drive back the way you came — no hardship, since even the most panoramic view looks different in the opposite direction. You can easily make the round-trip drive in a day, but if you’ve got time, spend at least a night or two in the Abisko area to experience the national park.

Best road trip for wild alpine scenery

The Wilderness Road

Strömsund-Strömsund; 310 miles (500km); 2-7 days

This route makes a circuit through one of Sweden’s most spectacular alpine wilderness areas. Starting in Strömsund, drive clockwise past a string of sparkling lakes and rushing rivers before climbing onto the Stekenjokk plateau, 2884 feet (879m) above sea level. This is Sweden’s highest-altitude paved road and is closed from mid-October to early June due to heavy snow. Once you descend, continue along more lakes and rivers to Vilhelmina, then circle back south to Strömsund to complete the loop.

Without stops you could drive this route in a day and see plenty of stunning scenery, but taking your time reveals many interesting sights and detours, including hiking trails, waterfalls, Sweden’s longest cave system, Sámi camps and church towns, local heritage centers and a variety of guided outdoor activities.

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Best road trip for intriguing natural wonders

Indalsälven and the High Coast

Östersund-Örnsköldsvik; 240 miles (385km); 5-7 days

This route connects one of Sweden’s major rivers to one of its most geologically interesting stretches of coastline. As you follow Indalsälven through the beautiful Ragunda Valley worthwhile stops include Döda Fallet (the Dead Falls), a striking display of nature’s power and human folly, and Thailändska Paviljongen, an authentic Thai pavilion commemorating King Chulalongkorn’s 1887 visit to the region.

Continue to the coast to explore Höga Kusten, a stretch of shoreline that has been rising steadily since the end of the last Ice Age. The region’s many attractions include hiking trails in rugged Skuleskogen National Park, spectacular views from Skuleberget, the once-secret Cold War fortress at Hemsö and boat excursions to Ulvön. Don’t miss the viewpoint at the north end of Sweden’s longest suspension bridge, Höga Kustenbron.

Best road trip for Swedish arts and culture

Dalarna circuit

Falun-Borlänge, 160 miles (257km): 3-7 days

A road trip through Dalarna is an opportunity to explore some of Sweden’s most beloved traditions and cultural icons, as well as striking scenery around Lake Siljan. The lakeside towns of Leksand, Rättvik and Mora are centers for local music, folk dance and handicraft traditions. North of Leksand, be sure to take the side road via the picture-perfect village of Tällberg. Near Mora, stop in Nusnäs to see hand-painted wooden Dala horses being made. Along the west side of Siljan, take the road across Sollerön, an island with many Viking graves, and hike — or take the chairlift — to the top of 1686-foot (514m) Gesundaberget for panoramic lake views.

Other highlights include Falun, known for its historic copper mine, and the homes of the famous Swedish artists Carl Larsson, in Sundborn, and Anders Zorn, in Mora.

Best coastal road trip

Bohuslän Coastal Road

Göteborg-Strömstad; 250 miles (400km); 3-10 days

Just north of Göteborg, Bohuslän is a stunningly beautiful region with a jagged coastline dotted with picturesque villages and historic sites. By highway, it’s just two hours from Göteborg to the Norwegian border, but taking your time on the smaller roads along the coast quickly reveals why this is one of Sweden’s most popular summer vacation areas.

Attractions along the way include nature reserves, imposing fortresses, the outdoor art exhibit Skulptur i Pilane, thousands of ancient petroglyphs at Tanum and Sweden’s first marine national park, Kosterhavet, off the coast near Strömstad. Among the most beautiful communities are Smögen with its brightly painted fishing huts; Fjällbacka, made famous to crime fiction fans by local author Camilla Läckberg; and Grebbestad, with a vibrant guest harbor and renowned oyster fisheries.

Best road trip for castles and history

Around Lake Mälaren

Stockholm-Stockholm; 250 miles (400km); 2-7 days

The heartland of the Swedish kingdom for centuries, the Lake Mälaren region brims with fascinating history and lovely scenery. Surrounding the lake are enchanting towns such as Sigtuna, founded around 970, and dozens of impressive castles including Skokloster, Strömsholm and Gripsholm.

If you’re intrigued by ancient mysteries, don’t miss Anundshög, the largest burial mound in Sweden; the Bronze Age rock carvings at Boglösa and Häljesta; or Sigurdsristningen, Sweden’s longest runic inscription. If you love historic churches, the medieval cathedrals in Västerås and Strängnäs are must-see attractions. For a look at daily life in bygone days, stop at Vallby Open Air Museum or Rademachersmedjorna. Near Södertälje, Taxinge-Näsby Palace is famous for its bountiful selection of pastries — a sweet finale to your Mälaren adventure.

Best road trip for varied attractions

Around Lake Vättern

Jönköping-Jönköping; about 200 miles (321km); allow 4-8 days

Long and narrow, Sweden’s second-largest lake is the centerpiece of a diverse route blending history, nature and culture. Follow the eastern shore to Gränna, famous for striped candy canes, and the gorgeous nature reserve Ekopark Omberg. Nearby are the 12th-century monastic ruins at Alvastra and Sweden’s longest runic inscription, Rökstenen. Continue on to Vadstena with its renowned medieval abbey and impressive Renaissance castle, and Motala, the “capital” of the Göta Canal, with Sweden’s longest lake beach, Varamobadet.

Tiveden National Park and Karlsborg Fortress are among the highlights on Vättern’s west side. If you have time, interesting detours around the lake include Visingsö island (by ferry from Gränna); the Göta Canal with multi-lock staircases at Borenshult and Berg; the medieval sites at Skara and Varnhem; and Lake Hornborga, beloved by birdwatchers.

Best road trip combining nature and history

Skåne

Kristianstad-Ängelholm; 250 miles (400km); 7-10 days

Sweden’s southernmost province, Skåne, has a reputation for being flat, but as this route proves, that’s only true some of the time. This road trip encompasses a diverse range of landscapes, including rocky coastline, golden fields, apple orchards, wildflower-covered hills, and some of Sweden’s finest beaches. Other highlights include medieval towns and cities such as Åhus, Ystad and Lund; the mysterious ancient ship setting Ales Stenar; and Sweden’s vibrant third-largest city, Malmö.

Skåne also has three national parks — Stenshuvud, Dalby Söderskog and Söderåsen — which protect special landscapes unique to the region. In the northwest, don’t miss the magnificent gardens at Sofiero Palace and Kullaberg, a cave-dotted peninsula with dramatic coastal views, picturesque towns and Sweden’s most powerful lighthouse.

Best long-distance road trip

Cities and coasts

Stockholm-Göteborg or vice versa; 620 miles (1000km); 10-14 days minimum

Connecting Sweden’s three largest cities, this route takes in many of the highlights of southern Sweden, following the coast most of the way. At Södertälje, southwest of Stockholm, pick up the excursion route Utflyktsvägen, a scenic byway that terminates near Norrköping. Next, follow the E22 south to Skåne, making detours inland or along the coast as you please. Worthwhile stops include pretty Söderköping on the Göta Canal, historic Kalmar with its iconic Renaissance castle and Karlskrona, a naval city overlooking Sweden’s southernmost archipelago.

From Kristianstad, follow the Skåne route above to Ängelholm, from which the E6 highway runs straight up the beautiful west coast. If you have enough time, there are many alternative routes past fine beaches and attractive cities such as Halmstad, Falkenberg and Varberg, en route to lively Göteborg.

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As we enter another phase of COVID-19 uncertainty with the emergence of the new Omicron strain coupled with the surge of Delta-driven infections in many parts of the world, the US Department of State and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their travel advisories this week, moving more European and African destinations to the Level-4 alert.

South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Mozambique, Malawi, Lesotho, eSwatini, and Botswana are among the latest countries to receive the "do not travel" designation, as well as an incoming travel ban on foreign visitors from those countries due to the emergence of the Omicron strain. Poland was also added to the Level 4 list—the latest in a growing list of European destinations the US government is urging Americans to avoid.

The current advisories aim to inform US residents about risks associated with traveling overseas, so people can make better-informed decisions about travel and enjoy relatively safe trips. If you plan to travel soon, here's what you need to know about the latest travel guidelines.

Read more: What you need to know about finding and paying for healthcare abroad

What is a travel advisory?

The ongoing risks associated with COVID-19, particularly as new variants emerge, present challenges and uncertainties for travel. To make the experience a little less confusing, the Department of State has aligned its security travel advisories with the CDC's science-based Travel Health Notices to warn travelers about dangers and COVID-19 threats overseas.

Level 4 travel advisory

Level 4 is the highest alert. Countries that register more than 500 new cases of COVID-19 over the past 28 days per 100,000 population are designated to the CDC's Level-4 list. Under CDC guidelines, people are asked to "avoid travel" to Level 4 destinations—but if they must travel, they should be fully vaccinated.

The Department of State takes this information into account, also looking at factors such as political instability, natural disasters and the threat of terrorism or violent crime. "[Level 4] is the highest advisory level due to greater likelihood of life-threatening risks," the Department explains. In the context of COVID-19, Americans are urged to avoid travel to these places due to increased infection rates and COVID-19 variants such as the Omicron.

What countries are at Level 4?

Many popular European destinations have been designated Level 4 recently as the region battles another wave of COVID-19, prompting lockdowns in Austria and Slovakia, and the cancellation of Christmas markets in winter-friendly travel spots like Germany. Some Caribbean destinations are also sitting at the highest alert, such as Barbados and Belize where cases are rising. South Africa and neighboring countries are also here, just days after South Africa alerted the world to the emergence of the Omicron strain.

Other destinations at Level 4 include Ireland, the UK, Cuba, Denmark, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Iceland, the Czech Republic, Trinidad and Tobago, Singapore, Turkey, French Polynesia, Greece, and more.

Level 3 advisory

The CDC advises unvaccinated Americans to avoid nonessential travel to Level 3 destinations, where risks associated with COVID-19 remain high. Some popular destinations designated Level 3 include Mexico, Costa Rica, Italy, Canada, El Salvador, Chile, Croatia, Colombia, Egypt, Aruba, Sweden, Japan, Sweden, Cyprus, Australia, Brazil, Israel, Thailand, Panama, Portugal, Spain and—most recently— France, Panama, the Bahamas, South Korea, and New Zealand. Fiji, which opened its borders to American tourists today, is also at Level 3.

Read more: International tourists can now travel to Canada - here's what to expect

Level 2 advisory

Level 2 places are considered "COVID-19 moderate" destinations by the CDC. When traveling to these places people are asked to "practice enhanced precautions". The CDC also urges unvaccinated people who are at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19 to avoid nonessential travel to Level 2 destinations. Some countries currently at Level 2 include Peru, Rwanda, India, Kenya, Argentina, and Morocco.

Level 1 advisory

Level 1 destinations are considered "low-risk" countries. People traveling to these places are asked to "exercise normal precautions" by the Department of State. Given the scale of the pandemic, not many countries are considered low-risk. Some countries at Level 1 include Paraguay, Zambia, Morocco, Djibouti, Senegal, and the British Virgin Islands which recently revised its entry requirement s to make it easier for fully vaccinated travelers to visit the islands.

Should I cancel my trip to a Level 4 country?

The answer is up to you. Travel advisories are guidelines, not rules. You are still permitted to travel to these places, but if you choose to go a country the government is advising you to avoid, you do so at your own risk. In some extreme cases—that is, countries where there is civil unrest, widespread violence and political instability—the Department warns that some consular services may not be available to you and advises travelers to "always have a contingency plan for emergency situations".

Read more: What do I do if my flight gets cancelled⁠—and can I get a refund?

If I do travel, do I need to quarantine?

It depends on your destination. These travel advisories and travel health notices are set out by the US government and the CDC, not the governments of the individual countries. For example, Ireland is at Level 4 but the Irish government is permitting Americans to travel there.

Will my travel insurance cover me in a Level 4 country?

It depends on your plan and provider. We asked several travel insurance experts for information on the impact travel advisories have on your insurance; find out how your health insurance covers getting COVID-19 while traveling abroad, and how to choose travel insurance that covers COVID-19.

How often do these advisories change?

The Department of State confirms it reviews and updates travel advisories "as needed, based on security and safety information."

Anyone considering heading abroad should read the entire travel advisory for their destination at Travel.State.gov; in addition to the destination's border restrictions and entry requirements—and stay up-to-date on local public health guidelines.

For more information on COVID-19 and travel, check out Lonely Planet's Health Hub.

You might also like:
Need to self-isolate on arrival? Here’s what you need to know
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How to manage vaccine certifications and COVID-19 passports for international travel

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