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Andrea M. Rotondo has traveled to 50+ countries using points and miles. She's a luxury, small-ship cruise expert and hotel maven who can share the not-to-be-missed spots in her adopted home state of Florida. She will also talk all day long about her ancestral homeland: Italy.
April 12, 2021 • 30 min read
The cards we feature here are from partners who compensate us when you are approved through our site, and this may impact how or where these products appear. We don't cover all available credit cards, but our analysis, reviews, and opinions are entirely from our editorial team. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. Please view our advertising policy and product review methodology for more information.Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.
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Quick summary
The article highlights top international destinations open to U.S. travelers, including the Bahamas, Belize, Costa Rica, Greece, Iceland and Mexico, with a focus on updated entry requirements and safety protocols.
Each country features unique entry processes, such as mandatory health apps, proof of vaccination or negative COVID-19 tests and specific insurance or hotel bookings.
Travelers should expect ongoing changes in airline routes and local restrictions, with some destinations offering easy access to COVID-19 testing for U.S. re-entry.
The guide also provides recommendations for points-friendly hotels and practical tips for planning a post-pandemic trip.
What to consider
Entry requirements vary by country and may include health forms, proof of vaccination, negative test results or mandatory insurance.
Some destinations require travelers to stay at certified hotels or use specific health apps, and local safety measures such as mask mandates and curfews may apply.
Flight schedules and hotel availability continue to change, so travelers should verify current options before booking.
What you'll miss from the article
Detailed breakdowns of entry procedures, safety rules and hotel options for each featured country, including advice on maximizing points stays.
Generated by AI with support from our editorial team.
Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here.
Optimism. It's a feeling that's probably caked with cobwebs after a year of social distancing and lockdowns. But it's time to dust it off! Right now, with more and more people in the U.S. and around the world being vaccinated, that boredom of another day filled with Instacart and Doordash orders -- and not seeing your friends and family -- is being replaced by new-found optimism that life can begin to get back to normal.
At TPG, a very real part of "getting back to normal" means scheduling some much-needed vacations.
If you are dreaming of leaving the country this spring, summer or fall, here are TPG's picks for the top countries we recommend for your first international post-pandemic getaway. These are the spots that are working hardest to remove barriers that have stopped travelers from visiting over the last year.
Note: No matter where you plan to visit, airlift has changed a lot since before the days of coronavirus. Routes you've taken before may have disappeared or are on pause. Options are constantly changing, so verify with your preferred airline. Some of the routes we mention below may not have yet returned to service for your dates of travel.
For more information about where you can travel, consult these top TPG stories:
required purchase of health insurance that covers COVID-19 for the duration of your stay in the Bahamas
easy-to-find COVID-19 test sites in-country so you can comply with the United States' re-entry requirement of a negative PCR test result
Children 10 and under are not required to take a test to enter the Bahamas -- which is likely a relief to every parent that doesn't want to explain to their kid why a stranger needs to stick a swab up their nose. However, children 2 and up will need to take a COVID-19 test in order to re-enter the United States.
The price of the Bahamas' mandatory health insurance depends on the length of your stay. For example, the insurance for a two-night stay of a TPG staffer cost $40 in January.
These thought-out practices are helping to keep Bahamian citizens, travelers and everyone employed in the tourism sector safe and healthy.
Safety precautions
The Bahamas requires visitors to wear a face mask and practice physical distance when in public places, such as waiting in a taxi line, entering a restaurant or even entering/exiting the beach. (You don't need to wear your mask once on the beach.)
It's important that you understand the face mask rule. Otherwise, risk a $200 fine, one-month imprisonment or both. This applies to visitors and residents.
When can you go?
Right now. The Bahamas are open for American visitors. TPG's Nick Ellis visited Baha Mar on Nassau in January. Here's what that experience was like.
Pros
The Bahamas is doing a great job of making it easy for Americans to visit. Many resorts now offer on-site COVID-19 testing to assist travelers who are returning to the U.S. and need to provide a test result to gain entry.
Unless you're staying right on Nassau, one of the larger islands of the Bahamas, you'll need to book connecting flights or take a ferry or private boat shuttle to your final destination. That can add additional expenses and travel time, so factor that in when deciding where to stay. (See below for some of our favorite places.)
Getting there
Here's a look at who normally flies to Nassau (NAS). Check the airlines' current schedules.
Atlanta (ATL): Delta
Baltimore (BWI): Southwest
Boston (BOS): American and JetBlue
Charlotte (CLT): American
Chicago (ORD): American and United
Dallas (DFW): American
Denver (DEN): United
Fort Lauderdale (FLL): JetBlue and Silver Airways
Houston (IAH): United
Miami (MIA): American (Use British Airways Avios to fly on American from Miami for 15,000 Avios each way.)
New York (JFK): Delta and JetBlue
New York (LGA): American
Newark (EWR): United
Orlando (MCO): JetBlue
Philadelphia (PHL): American
Tampa (TPA): Silver Airways
Washington (DCA): American and JetBlue
Washington (IAD): United
When searching for flights on American Airlines, we found a web special in June that priced round-trip flights from Boston to Nassau at 20,000 AAdvantage miles plus $120.95 per passenger.
(Screenshot courtesy of American Airlines)
United Airlines also has good availability for award tickets for just 17,500 miles plus $5.60 each way for dates in May and June.
One-way award flights from Chicago (ORD) to Nassau (NAS) in May/June 2021. (Screenshot courtesy of United)
Pro tip: If you carry The Platinum Card® from American Express, you can book the Rosewood Baha Mar, The Cove at Atlantis and The Ocean Club, Bahamas: A Four Seasons Resort via American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts. Pay cash or use your Membership Rewards points.
There's a new welcome offer on the Amex Platinum right now that offers 100,000 Membership Rewards after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases in your first six months of card membership. Plus, earn 10x points on eligible purchases on the card at restaurants worldwide and when you "Shop Small" in the U.S., on up to $25,000 in combined purchases, during the first six months of card membership.
The perks you get when booking The Ocean Club via American Express' Fine Hotels + Resorts program. (Screenshot courtesy of American Express)
Belize
The Blue Hole, a sinkhole in the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System. (Photo by Andrew Hounslea/Getty Images)
Best for...
Americans that want to plan an international trip but are more comfortable conversing in English. It's the official language of Belize.
Ease of entry
To begin your entry process to Belize, download and complete the Belize Health App within 72 hours of arrival. You'll receive an ID number and QR code that you'll need to show at the airport when you land.
On your flight to Belize, you'll fill out the traditional Customs and Immigration form.
As an international tourist, you are required to book what's called a "Gold Standard" hotel. These properties have implemented additional cleaning and safety precautions and received certification from the government. You'll need to show your Gold Standard hotel confirmation at immigration, so have that handy in your carry-on.
If you've been vaccinated and it's been at least two weeks since your last shot, Belize will accept your vaccination to enter. Bring your CDC vaccination card as proof.
If you haven't been vaccinated, you can instead present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 96 hours of arrival. Alternatively, you can present a negative rapid test (Rapid Antigen, Sofia, SD Blosensor and Abbott Panbio) taken within 48 hours of travel.
Note that some passengers will be randomly selected to take another COVID-19 test upon landing, even if they're holding a negative test result.
If you arrive with no test results, a COVID-19 test will be administered at the airport at your expense ($50 per person).
Prior to departure, you can take a COVID-19 test at any of the country's approved testing centers as well as at the international airport.
Safety precautions
Belize is certifying hotels, tour operators, restaurants, shops and more as "Gold Standard." You can be assured that they are taking specific safety precautions. At hotels, for example, they are implementing:
social distancing
the use of face masks while in public spaces
online check-in/out, contactless payment systems and automated ordering/booking systems;
hand sanitizing stations across the property
enhanced room cleaning and increase sanitization of public spaces and high touch surfaces
daily health checks for guests and employees
designated ‘Isolation/Quarantine rooms’ for suspected COVID-19 cases and action plans for handling suspected employees or guests
When can you go?
Americans can visit Belize right now.
Pros
Belize is one of the first countries to accept proof of vaccination in lieu of a negative COVID-19 test result.
These are the airlines that normally fly to Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE). Check their current schedules.
Atlanta (ATL): Delta
Charlotte (CLT): American
Chicago (ORD): United
Dallas (DFW): American
Houston (IAH): United
Los Angeles (LAX): American
Miami (MIA): American
Minneapolis (MSP): Sun Country
Newark (EWR): United
Where to stay
Use your Marriott Bonvoy points at Alaia Belize, Autograph Collection. (Rendering courtesy of the resort)
In Ambergris Caye
Alaia Belize, Autograph Collection: from 40,000 Marriott points
Ka'ana Resort: closed for renovations through Oct. 31, 2021 -- from 25,000 Hyatt points
Mahogany Bay Resort & Beach Club, Curio Collection by Hilton: from 80,000 Hilton points
In Belize City
Radisson Fort George Hotel and Marina: from 38,000 Radisson Rewards points
Ramada by Wyndham Princess Belize City: from 15,000 Wyndham Rewards points
In San Pedro
Turtle Island Beach Resort, Trademark Collection by Wyndham: from 30,000 Wyndham points
Costa Blu Beach Resort, Trademark Collection by Wyndham: from 15,000 Wyndham points
Pro tip: If you have certain Chase credit cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, you can book two very nice Belize resorts using Chase's Luxury Hotel Collection. You'll get perks like free breakfast for two daily, complimentary Wi-Fi and a $100 credit for tours or food/beverages.
(Screenshot courtesy of Chase Luxury Hotel Collection)
Costa Rica
Costa Rica's Arenal Volcano. (Photo by Westend61 / Getty Images)
Best for...
Active travelers who want to explore a rainforest, the beach or a volcano
Ease of entry
Like other countries, Costa Rica has implemented the use of a mobile app for entry. Download and fill out the HEALTH PASS 48 hours before arrival. You must fill out the form for everyone in your travel party, including children.
Next, you must purchase health insurance for the trip that covers quarantine accommodations and medical expenses due to COVID-19 disease. According to Costa Rica, the policy you select must be:
Valid during your entire stay in Costa Rica (coverage dates)
Include $50,000 for medical expenses, including COVID-19 disease
Include $2,000 for accommodation expenses in the event of COVID-19 quarantine
Once you've purchased the policy, ask your insurer for a certificate/letter in English or Spanish stating the following:
Name of traveler
Validity of the effective policy during the visit in Costa Rica (travel dates)
Guarantee of coverage for medical expenses in the event of COVID-19 in Costa Rica, for at least US $50,000
Minimum coverage of $2,000 for accommodation expenses for quarantine or trip interruption for this same amount
The certificate has to specify that the policy covers COVID-19 and you must upload it to the HEALTH PASS app so it can be reviewed and approved by the Costa Rican authorities. Insurance cards are not accepted, it must be a letter in this format.
You can purchase your insurance from any international provider or these three Costa Rican insurers. Just note that the Costa Rican policies only include $20,000 of guaranteed coverage for COVID-19-related medical expenses instead of $50,000 in the case of international providers. That difference has been approved by the government.
Costa Rica also makes it easy to get a COVID-19 test in preparation for your return to the U.S. Tests cost between $100 and $150 each and take a maximum of 48 hours to return results. Testing may be done at laboratories authorized by the Ministry of Health of Costa Rica. Click for a PDF list of testing labs in Costa Rica.
Safety precautions
Communities, hotels and tour operators control their safety protocols. Expect a request to wear face masks, practice social distancing and use hand sanitizer often.
When can you go?
You can depart for Costa Rica today.
Pros
Costa Rica is a diverse country but no matter which destination you choose, you'll be able to enjoy the beach, a volcano, national parks or rainforests.
Cons
Costa Rica charges a $29 per person departure tax.
Getting there
Fly to Costa Rica's Liberia in the Guanacaste Providence (LIR) on these airlines. Check their current schedules.
Atlanta (ATL): Delta
Boston (BOS): JetBlue
Charlotte (CLT): American
Chicago (ORD): United
Dallas (DFW): American
Denver (DEN): United
Houston (HOU): Southwest
Houston (IAH): United
Los Angeles (LAX): Alaska Airlines and Delta
Miami (MIA): American
Minneapolis (MSP): Delta and Sun Country
New York (JFK): American and JetBlue
Newark (EWR): United
Checking dates in June on JetBlue from New York's JFK, we're seeing one-way award redemptions as low as 13,500 JetBlue TrueBlue points.
The outbound flight cost 13,500 TrueBlue points, while the return flight cost 15,400 points. (Screenshot courtesy of JetBlue)
Or fly to San Jose (SJO) on these airlines. Check their current schedules.
Atlanta (ATL): Delta
Charlotte (CLT): American
Chicago (ORD): United
Dallas (DFW): American
Fort Lauderdale (FLL): JetBlue and Spirit
Houston (IAH): United
Los Angeles (LAX): Alaska Airlines and Delta
Miami (MIA): American
New York (JFK): American and JetBlue
Newark (EWR): United
Orlando (MCO): JetBlue and Spirit
Phoenix (PHX): American
Washington (IAD): United
Where to stay
Guest rooms at the Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo. (Photo courtesy of the Hyatt)
El Mangroove, Autograph Collection: from 40,000 Marriott points
JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa: from 40,000 Marriott points
Planet Hollywood Costa Rica All-Inclusive Beach Resort: opening soon
Punta Islita, Autograph Collection: from 40,000 Marriott points
The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa: from 70,000 Marriott points
W Costa Rica - Reserva Conchal: from 50,000 Marriott points
Near Arenal Volcano National Park (2.5-hour drive from SJO and 3-hour drive from LIR)
Tabacon Thermal Resort and Spa: from 20,000 Hyatt points
Near Manuel Antonio National Park (fly to SJO, QXP, TMU, LIR or DAV)
Los Altos Resort: from 25,000 Hyatt points
In Ojochal de Osa (fly to SJO)
Hotel Three Sixty: from 25,000 Hyatt points (adults-only hotel)
On the Nicoya Peninsula (connect to Tambor Airport-TMU from SJO or drive 3 hours from LIR)
Hotel Nantipa: from 25,000 Hyatt points
In San Jose (fly to SJO)
AC Hotel San Jose Escazu: from 15,000 Marriott points
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cariari San Jose: from 20,000 Hilton points
Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton: from 26,000 Hilton points
Hilton San Jose La Sabana: from 29,000 Hilton points
InterContinental Hotels Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall: from 27,500 IHG points
Sheraton San Jose Hotel: from 15,000 Marriott points
Greece
Best for...
Europhiles who've been missing the continent and its glorious coastlines and seafood.
Ease of entry
Greece is the word when it comes to European countries making real progress on welcoming visitors back in time for summer travel with a solid plan of action. Officials confirmed the country is reopening its border to visitors starting May 14, 2021, with a "five lines of defense" strategy that mandates the following:
All visitors must be fully vaccinated or present a negative COVID-19 test result;
A checking system at Greece’s airports and borders, where passengers can be selected randomly to take a rapid test;
Any visitor who tests positive for coronavirus will be isolated in a “quarantine hotel”;
All tourism industry workers must be vaccinated (they will move up the priority list once the most vulnerable Greek citizens get the vaccine); and
Strict adherence to safety protocols such as wearing masks and social distancing.
Safety precautions
Greek authorities have been strict with measures to combat the spread of COVID-19. Currently, masks are required both indoors and outdoors in all public places around the country as well as on public transportation, including the ubiquitous ferries.
Fines of 300 euros are in place for people caught violating face mask and social distancing rules. For people who violate mandatory quarantines, fines of 5,000 euros and arrest are possible, according to the U.S. Embassy & Consulate in Greece's page.
When can you go?
According to the U.S. Embassy in Greece, American visitors are currently not able to enter the country (there are exceptions to the rule that require a seven-day quarantine period on arrival). That said, the United States is among 10 countries Greece is currently working with on potential agreements that may allow vaccinated citizens or those with negative COVID-19 tests to travel freely (without quarantining requirements) between participating countries.
Citizens and residents of the European Union and residents of several other countries (including Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea, among others) may enter Greece with proof of a negative PCR test.
Pros
Greece is doing well with testing, and PCR and COVID-19 antigen tests are widely available (including at major hospitals and Athens International Airport), with costs for the former capped at 60 euros. Results are reliably available within 72 hours.
Cons
As of now, you'll still need to take a COVID-19 test and present a negative result to return to the United States. Movement restrictions in Greece currently include a nationwide curfew, in place from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. throughout the country.
Getting there
You can fly to Athens International Airport (ATH) on these airlines.
Chicago (ORD): American New York (JFK): Delta Newark (EWR): Emirates and United Philadelphia (PHL): American
Where to stay
If you're looking for boutique properties across Greece, check out Hyatt's offerings -- especially from Small Luxury Hotels. Pick up the World of Hyatt Credit Card with a welcome bonus of 30,000 points after spending $3,000 on eligible purchases within the first three months. Plus, up to 30,000 more Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.
For over-the-top luxury, don't miss Marriott's Luxury Collection Hotel options. The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card gets you off and running there with a new cardmember offer of 150,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points and a bonus free night award (redemption level worth up to 85,000 Marriott points) after you use your new card to make $5,000 in eligible purchases within the first three months of card membership. Resort fees may apply. Offer expires 11/3/2021
In Athens
A77 Suites by Andronis: from 25,000 World of Hyatt points
Athens Marriott Hotel: from 30,000 Marriott points
Aressana Spa Hotel and Suites: from 25,000 World of Hyatt points
Canaves Oia Boutique Hotel: from 40,000 World of Hyatt points
Canaves Oia Epitome: from 40,000 World of Hyatt points
Gold Suites: from 30,000 World of Hyatt points
Mystique, a Luxury Collection Resort: from 70,000 Marriott points
On the Rocks: from 25,000 World of Hyatt points
San Antonio: from 40,000 World of Hyatt points
Santorini Secret Suites & Spa: from 40,000 World of Hyatt points
Vedema, a Luxury Collection Resort: from 70,000 Marriott points
In Thessaloniki
Hyatt Regency Thessaloniki: from 8,000 World of Hyatt points
The Excelsior: from 12,000 World of Hyatt points
Iceland
Best for...
East Coasters that can catch a quick flight from a number of major U.S. gateways.
Ease of entry
As of April 6, all travelers -- including Americans -- can enter Iceland as long as they show full vaccination against COVID-19 or proof of previous infection. All arriving passengers are administered (and required to take) a free COVID-19 test upon arrival at the airport in Iceland and must wait to receive the results back (usually within six to 24 hours) at the place where they're staying. After the test comes back negative, vaccinated travelers are free to explore, with no need for a second test (until it's time to return to the U.S.). If you travel to Iceland and have not been vaccinated, you'll need to take a second COVID-19 test on Day 5 of your visit. These rules will be re-evaluated on May 1.
Safety precautions
Face masks are required in Iceland in public transport and shops as well as other places where keeping two meters of social distancing is not possible. Gatherings are currently limited to 10 people. Bars and clubs are currently closed, as well as some other businesses, including swimming pools and gyms, but restaurants remain open, with earlier closing times than usual.
When can you go?
Right now, if you can prove that you're fully vaccinated or previously had COVID-19.
Pros
If you're fully vaccinated or had COVID-19, you're in. The required COVID-19 test on arrival in Iceland is free.
Cons
As of now, you'll still need to take a COVID-19 test and present a negative result when re-entering the United States. On arrival in Iceland, you're required to take a PCR test and stay at your accommodations until the results come back negative.
Getting there
From the U.S., you can fly to Reykjavik's Keflavik International Airport (KEF) on these airlines.
Boston (BOS): Icelandair
Chicago (ORD): Icelandair
Denver (DEN): Icelandair
Minneapolis (MSP): Icelandair
New York (JFK): Delta and Icelandair
Newark (EWR): Icelandair and United
Orlando (MCO): Icelandair
Philadelphia (PHL): American
Seattle (SEA): Icelandair
Washington, D.C. (IAD): Icelandair
Where to stay
Hilton, Marriott Bonvoy and IHG and Radisson Rewards can all earn you stays in Reykjavik, Iceland's capital. When exploring beyond there, Íslandshótel is an Iceland chain with 17 hotels across the country. Airbnbs in spectacular locales also abound.
In Reykjavik
101 Hotel, Reykjavik, a Member of Design Hotels: from 50,000 Marriott points
Courtyard Reykjavik Keflavik Airport: from 30,000 Marriott points
Hilton Reykjavik Nordica: 40,000 to 60,000 points
ION City Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels: from 50,000 Marriott points
Mr & Mrs Smith Kvosin Hotel: from 40,000 IHG points
Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton: 52,000 to 80,000 Hilton points
Tower Suite Reykjavik: from 40,000 Hyatt points
Radisson Blu 1919 Hotel: from 70,000 Radisson Rewards points
Mexico
Cancun, Mexico. (Photo by Arthur Fonoretzky/Getty Images)
Best for...
Anyone that wants to revisit a favorite tourist destination in Mexico or others that yearn for a beautiful resort and beach getaway that's close to home.
Ease of entry
Mexico hasn't added any special entry requirements. However, you may be subject to a health screening or temperature upon arrival.
Safety precautions
All areas of Mexico are divided into four epidemiologic risk assessment groups: red, where core activities are allowed; orange, which adds nonessential businesses running with 30% of their staff and outdoor activities being capacity controlled; yellow, where work is allowed but outdoor activities are still capacity controlled; and green that indicates all activities are available and schools are open.
According to the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Mexico, from March 15–28, there were no areas of Mexico in the red zone.
Once in Mexico, the government asks you to take commonsense precautions, such as washing your hands frequently with soap and water, only going to the doctor in case of emergency and coughing/sneezing into your elbow. Interestingly, Mexico also cautions residents and visitors not to spread "fake news."
There was a major surge in COVID-19 cases in Mexico in late December 2020 and early January 2021 following an influx of tourists. The U.S. State Department’s travel advisory for Mexico is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 4: Do Not Travel.
When can you go?
Right now. Here are some TPG guides to help you plan your Mexico trip:
It is easy to travel to Mexico. In fact, the trip likely won't look all that different than your last pre-pandemic visit.
Cons
Mexico is a popular tourist destination -- even now -- so you'll want to exercise caution and follow all of the normal safety precautions you would at home: Wear a mask, practice social distancing when in a crowd and wash your hands frequently.
Getting there
Here's a look at who normally flies to Cancun (CUN), one of the most popular vacation destinations in the country. Check the airlines' current schedules.
Chicago (ORD): American, Frontier, Spirit and United
Cincinnati (CVB): Delta and Frontier
Cleveland (CLE): Frontier and Spirit
Columbus (CMH): American
Dallas (DFW): American, Spirit and Sun Country
Denver (DEN): Frontier, Southwest and United
Detroit (DTW): Delta and Spirit
Durham (RDU): American and Delta
Fort Lauderdale (FLL): JetBlue, Southwest and Spirit
Houston (HOU): Southwest
Houston (IAH): Spirit and United
Indianapolis (IND): American and Frontier
Kansas City (MCI): American and Frontier
Los Angeles (LAX): Delta and United
Miami (MIA): American and LATAM
Minneapolis (MSP): Delta and Sun Country
Nashville (BNA): Spirit
New Orleans (MSY): Spirit
New York (JFK): American, Delta and JetBlue
Newark (EWR): Frontier and United
Orlando (MCO): Delta and JetBlue
Philadelphia (PHL): American, Frontier and Spirit
Phoenix (PHX): American
Pittsburgh (PIT): Spirit
Portland (PDX): Alaska
Saint Louis (STL): American and Frontier
San Diego (SAN): Alaska
San Francisco (SFO): United
Salt Lake City (SLC): Delta
Seattle (SEA): Alaska and Delta
Washington (IAD): United
To find flights to other Mexico gateways, check FromFlights.com
Where to stay
Ritz Carlton Cancun (Photo by Zach Griff/The Points Guy)
Note that Marriott has many alluring properties across Mexico. If you need more Marriott Bonvoy points, there are two credit cards to consider before your vacation.
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card offers a welcome bonus of 150,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points and a bonus free night award (redemption level worth up to 85,000 Marriott points) after you use your new card to make $5,000 in eligible purchases within the first three months of card membership. Resort fees may apply. Offer expires 11/3/2021. On your card anniversary, you'll also receive an award night certificate, which can be used at any property up to 50,000 points per night at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program. Certain hotels have resort fees. That's up to a Category 6 on standard or off-peak dates or a Category 7 hotel on off-peak dates. The card has a $450 annual fee (see rates & fees).
The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless™ Credit Card also offers an award night certificate on its anniversary, but it's good for hotels up to 35,000 points per night. That's up to a Category 5 on standard and off-peak dates. The current welcome offer for this card is 3 Free Night Awards (each free night award has a redemption value up to 50,000 bonus points, that’s a value of up to 150,000 total points) after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Plus, earn 10X total points on up to $2,500 in combined purchases at grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations within the first 6 months from account opening.
In Acapulco
Banyan Tree Cabo Marques: book via American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts
In Cabo San Lucas
Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection: book via American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts
Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos (all-inclusive): from 20,000 points
JW Marriott Los Cabos Beach Resort & Spa: from 40,000 Marriott points
Montage Los Cabos: book via American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts
Solaz, a Luxury Collection Resort, Los Cabos: from 50,000 Marriott points
The Cape, a Thompson Hotel: from 25,000 Hyatt points
The Westin Los Cabos Resort Villas & Spa: from 40,000 Marriott points
In Cancun
Hyatt Zilara Cancun(all-inclusive): from 25,000 Hyatt points
Hyatt Ziva Cancun (all-inclusive): from 25,000 Hyatt points
JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa: from 40,000 Marriott points
Marriott Cancun Resort: from 30,000 Marriott points
NIZUC Resort & Spa: book via American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts
Renaissance Cancun Resort & Marina: from 30,000 Marriott points
The Ritz-Carlton Cancun: from 40,000 Marriott points or book via American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts
The Westin Lagunamar Ocean Resort Villas & Spa: from 40,000 Marriott points
The Westin Resort & Spa, Cancun: from 30,000 Marriott points
In Playa del Carmen
Banyan Tree Mayakoba: book via American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts
Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen Resort: from 25,000 Hyatt points
Grand Velas Riviera Maya: book via American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts
Rosewood Mayakoba: book via American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts
Thompson Playa del Carmen Main House: from 12,000 Hyatt points
Thompson Playa del Carmen Beach House: from 20,000 Hyatt points
In Puerto Vallarta
Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta (all-inclusive): from 20,000 Hyatt points
Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa: from 40,000 Marriott points
Sheraton Bunganvilias Resort & Convention Center: from 30,000 Marriott points
The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort: from 70,000 Marriott points
The Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta: from 30,000 Marriott points
In Punta Mita
Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita: book via American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts
The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort: book via American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts
W Punta de Mita: from 50,000 Marriott points
In Riviera Maya
Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya: from 25,000 Hyatt points
Kasa Hotel Riviera Maya: from 20,000 Hyatt points
Pro tip: Before using points on a hotel in Mexico, check the cash price. You may find that it's a better value to pay cash. For example, nightly rates in August at the Renaissance Cancun Resort & Marina start at $87.
Bottom line
It is possible to plan an international trip right now -- though you may have to jump through some extra hoops to make it happen. But, if you are vaccinated and feel confident about getting out into the world again -- or even if you haven't yet been vaccinated but are in good health and plan to take every safety precaution while traveling -- you can make some travel memories in 2021.
This story will be updated as more countries change their entry policies and make it easier for Americans to visit.
For rates and fees of the Amex Marriott Brilliant card, click here.
Additional reporting by Terry Ward.
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