2021 is officially here and with that comes all sorts of New Year’s Resolutions and goals for many people. Each year, it’s a time for me to reflect back on the year and think about what I want to do or see in the upcoming year. Every year, I love to think of a new place to visit. My goal is always to see and do as much as I can and to at least visit a new country and city once every year. With that being said, 2020 was a year of struggle for many people. The travel industry took a hit and has been trying to bounce back ever since the United States slowly started to re-open. We are still in the middle of a pandemic, making it hard to visit and travel places we may want to visit. However, most places have put in great safety and health guidelines to ensure guest safety as best they can.

The beginning of the year is an awesome time to plan a vacation because it really can help you set the pace for the rest of the year. Planning a major trip can take a lot of time (or none at all when using a travel agent 😉) so starting early is always what I suggest. Plus, I like to plan early in the year because it gives me something to look forward to and as I work each day, I feel like I am working for and toward something special, which always seems to drive my workforce as well!

 I’ve rounded up my Top Places to visit in 2021 to help you get a jump start on thinking or planning your vacation for this year!

1. Walt Disney World

Now more than ever is the time to visit Walt Disney World! There have been so many new and exciting changes coming to all the parks! Epcot is undergoing a major overhaul and will be totally transformed in time for the 50th Anniversary of Walt Disney World. Hollywood Studios has added Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway to their list of attractions and Rise of the Resistance is still as popular as ever! This October, Disney will celebrate 50 years of magic, which is going to be a wonderful celebration! There really is something for everyone when visiting Walt Disney World. Whether it’s a family vacation, adult only trip, or a quick getaway, Walt Disney World has it all and makes it a great destination to visit in 2021. Check out this blog post to see how Disney is keeping guests safe with their health guidelines and protocols that are currently in place.

2. Universal Orlando

Universal Orlando is your one-stop for all things Harry Potter. Visit Diagon Alley at Universal Studios or Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure, and be fully immersed into a totally different world. With their park to park tickets, you can travel between the parks via Hogwarts Express and visit 2 great theme parks in one day. Universal Orlando is known for some great attractions including Rip Ride Rockit, The Hulk, The Revenge of the Mummy, and classic favorites like E.T. These 2 theme parks sit next to Universal’s Volcano Bay: The only water park with an “active” volcano and water rides that can be utilized with a Tapu Tapu wait system allowing you to enjoy your day without having to wait in line. Universal Resorts are close to the parks and Universal’s Endless Summer Resort rounds out the newest list of Universal parks to have opened, making visiting on a budget an easy way to enjoy Universal Orlando. Universal is currently building Jurassic World VelociCoaster and you’ll be able to ride it this summer! This high-speed rollercoaster will be at Islands of Adventure and looks to be amazing!! Not only can you ride this new attraction, but Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is still a fan favorite (and my all-time favorite theme park ride!) Endless Summer Resort- Dockside Inn & Suites is now officially open. This budget-friendly resort is great for guests that are looking for a cheaper option. It also features two-bedroom family suites that sleep 6! This is great for larger families!

Check out this blog post to see how Universal is keeping guests safe with their health guidelines and protocols that are currently in place.

3. All-Inclusive Resorts: Featuring Sandals & Beaches Resorts

Looking for 5 Star service? Look no further. Sandals Resorts has everything you need to really experience everything you need for a luxury all-inclusive vacation for adults only. Visit gorgeous beaches in Saint Lucia, Jamaica, Antigua, the Bahamas, Grenada, and Barbados. All-inclusive service includes gourmet dining, bars serving premium liquor and wine, land and water sports, golfing, and PADI certified scuba diving at most resorts. If you’re looking for a destination wedding or honeymoon, Sandals is the leader in Caribbean destinations, and I definitely see why! If an all-inclusive vacation is on your list along with top-notch service, this is the resort for you!

If you’re looking for a lower-priced option, there are TONS of all-inclusive properties that can fit all types of budgets. Two of my favorite islands that feature other all-inclusive resorts include St Maarten and St. Lucia! Looking to plan a trip to St. Maarten? Check out this blog post here!

4. All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico

All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico (Like Unico UNICO 20°N 87°W in Riviera Maya and Excellence in Playa Mujeres) offer affordable luxury for their guests. Some all-inclusive resorts are adult-only, making it a great place to spend time relaxing and enjoying one another. Most all-inclusive resorts include meals, drinks, airport transfers, entertainment, and activities. Some all-inclusive resorts will include spa treatments, excursions, and activities. The best thing is that there is really something for everyone, no matter what you are looking for!

5. National Parks 

2020 showed me an appreciation for the beautiful United States when I took a trip out west. I never realized how much there is to see and do right here in the USA! The United States has 63 national parks, all operated by the National Park Service. Head out west and easily social distance by visiting one of the national parks! The Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Zion National Park are just some of the popular parks and worth a visit. There is so much to see and do, and it can all be done safely out west!

Visit my Grand Canyon travel guide here!

What is on your travel list for 2021? There are so many destinations and your opportunities are endless! Travel more, and worry less. This can still be the year for you!

Love and Travel Dust,

Molly