Should You Stay or Should You Go?
We’ve all been scrolling through flight alerts, taste‑testing virtual tours, and, behind the scenes, wondering if it’s worth packing your bags in the middle of a pandemic. Bloomberg’s Covid‑19 Resilience Ranking gives us a map of where the world stands—what countries are flexing their immunity antibodies, and where we might feel safer to hit the gate.
Top 10 Countries to Wander To (After Voting )
- 1⃣ Singapore – The island city-state is rocking the second spot on Bloomberg’s list. We’re incredibly lucky to smell oatcake and tofu on our doorstep, with one of the most supportive vaccine ecosystems around.
- 2⃣ New Zealand – We’ve fallen in love with its green, kiwi‑blessed landscapes. New Zealand is a definitive “bite‑the‑bullet” vacation spot for travelers craving “less risk” and plenty of fresh air.
- 3⃣ Japan – From Kyoto’s timeless cherry blossoms to Tokyo’s neon buzz, Japan’s low contagion levels and robust health nets make it a dream‑destination for the cautious wanderer.
- 4⃣ Canada – Wide‑open skies and right‑to‑free health care give Canadians and tourists alike peace of mind in the Face‑Mask era.
- 5⃣ United Kingdom – England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland are all climbing the vaccination ladder, showcasing that the EU region can still offer safe, good‑old‑fashioned holiday spots.
- 6⃣ Finland – The land of midnight sun provides a brilliantly yeast‑free (yes, that’s a joke) environment for adventurous souls dealing with teensy‑weensy virus risk.
- 7⃣ Switzerland – Alpine escapes, Swiss chocolates, and a tight‑knit vaccination rollout. We’re obviously not arguing that strawberries and lingonberries are the ultimate travel pun.
- 8⃣ Germany – Classic European architecture, vibrant beer gardens, and solid-resilient health policies make Germany an irresistible option for the careful floater.
- 9⃣ Australia – Beyond the famous surf and the iconic kangaroos, Australia’s proactive vaccination program is making it a safe, sun‑lit recourse.
- 0⃣1⃣ United States – With healthcare improvements, diverse landscapes, and a bold, stubborn “be proud of my vaccines” spirit, the US is on the cusp: you’ll see high success percentages, but the “regional differences” indicator advises caution.
Why Are These Nations So Sweet‑Sifted?
In roughly a few bullets: 1. Fast & smooth vaccine rollout – the vaccine traffic jam solved. 2. Healthcare infrastructure that can stand the virus, with a well‑worn glove for the next COVID‑20 wave. 3. Lower contagion thresholds – fewer people turning your trip into a virus party.
How to Use This List While We’re Waiting for Flights
1. Pick one on your “to‑be‑finished” list that has the lowest COVID‑19 Risk Rating and a good public‑transport system.
2. Explore “virtual tours” of its iconic sites – because you’ll have a ticket to time‑travel.
3. Follow local health guidelines – leave those policies in the mailboxes, not in your luggage.
Finally … It’s Still Safe to Attend!
With the global vaccine rollout gaining momentum, we’re hoping the pandemic will become a thing of the past a little sooner. Until then, we’re filming our mood‑boosting vacation dreams on YouTube, planning itineraries from our couches, and holding juicy hopes in our hearts.
Will you tap your board and fly to the neon lights of Tokyo or feel a sun‑baked dip in New Zealand’s lakered beaches? Pick your path, suit up in a mask, and let’s keep that wanderlust alive – we know the silver lining is just a click away!
TLDR: Bloomberg’s Covid-19 resilience ranking
Bloomberg’s Covid‑19 Resilience Scores
When Bloomberg rolled out those resilience numbers, they didn’t just pull a random spreadsheet together. Two key ingredients were mixed into the pot:
- Covid‑19 situation in the country – things like national positivity rates, hospital occupancy and other pandemic‑specific stats.
- Quality of life factors – lockdown strictness, how people move around their communities, and the overall everyday vibe.
But here’s the kicker: the reporters were super honest about the data hiccups. Undetected cases and reporting errors can muddy the results. So, while the rankings give a good feel for how well a nation is coping, they shouldn’t be treated as a hard‑and‑fast map of the safest travel destinations. Think of them more as a snapshot of a country’s resilience prowess rather than a “go‑to” travel guide.
So, where to after Covid-19 vaccinations?
Writer’s Note
Picture this: you’re handed a whole country list and told, “Pick ONE photo that screams Japan.
” That’s the kind of decision that feels like being a judge at a Japanese Speed Dating event—every option bite‑sized and absolutely amazing.
- Lantern‑lit alleyways that look like a secret fairy‑tale street.
- Bustling road crossings that can practically feel the rustle of a thousand scooters.
- Temple‑studded hills, where each shrine feels like a polite nod to tradition.
So, how do you pick? You’re basically playing an advanced game of “Show me the most likely point‑of‑sight”—only, the stakes are linguistically high and the options only go up in epicness.
It was a real puzzle, but hey, that’s what keeps the author’s job interesting, right? Let’s keep the wanderlust rolling and hope the chosen picture actually does justice to a country that can ride a cherry blossom into your heart or a neon sign into your soul.
1. New Zealand
New Zealand: A Slice of Shire‑Style Adventure
Picture a land where mountains stretch like grand amphitheaters, blue lakes sparkle like liquid sapphires, and sheep graze as if starring in their own pastoral sitcom. If you’re craving a blend of epic landscapes and everyday comforts, New Zealand is your ticket out of the ordinary.
Must‑See Highlights (and a few quirky surprises)
- Waitomo Glowworm Cave – Dive into an underground wonderland where firefly‑like glowworms illuminate the cavern ceiling, making you feel like you’re in a Stargazer Plate 41 film.
- Hooker Valley Trail – Trek alongside Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s tallest peak, while the Alpine scenery keeps your heart racing faster than your morning coffee.
- Lavender Fields by Lake Tekapo – Stroll through fragrant violet fields and snap a selfie that will have your friends wondering if you took a trip to Provence.
- Queenstown – Grab a steaming cup of coffee, sip the adventure, and maybe try bungee‑jumping if you’re feeling daring enough for a small adrenaline dose.
Covid‑19 Snapshot (just so you know)
Despite thriving landscapes, the country’s Covid‑19 Resilience Ranking stands at 78/100. With only 0.3% of the population fully vaccinated, make sure to stay vigilant and keep that mask handy.
So whether you want to press play on a miraculous waterfall or simply savor the chill of a local espresso, New Zealand keeps pace with fun and safety.
2. Australia
A Chai‑te Series of Aussie Adventures
Growing up, my Aussie brain was all about the wildlife wonderland: wobbling wombats at Perth’s Caversham Wildlife Park, sleepy koalas perched over Melbourne’s Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, and the mischievous Tasmanian devils that prowled around Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary.
Fast‑Forward to My Twenties: The Foodie Fork
Fast forward through a few years and my travel checklist morphed into a gastronomy quest. While I was still gobbling up brunches and sipping the best coffee sips, I also stumbled upon hidden wine gems:
- Yarra Valley’s Yileena Park – a serene spot where you can sip wine while listening to the gentle whisper of the vines.
- Margaret River’s Victory Point Wines – the unofficial treasure chest of fine vintages.
And, of course, I couldn’t resist the Aussie craft beer buzz:
- Boatrocker Brewers & Distillers – where the breweries are as quirky as the beer itself.
- Moon Dog World – a place that takes craft vibes to a whole new level.
- Old Money’s famed Stockade Brew Co. – the brewery that knocks your socks off with every pour.
Whether you’re looking to coddle an animal, cleanse your soul with coffee-goodness, or simply hunt your favourite brand—no matter how loud your Kmart obsession is—Australia gives you a 360° experience.
Hold on Tight: The Numbers that Stay Behind
COVID‑19 Resilience Ranking: 73.9/100
Vaccination into the abyss: 0.6% of the population has gotten vaccinated.
3. Taiwan
Taiwan: Food, Fantasy & the Great Outdoors
From instant noodles to glowing lanterns, and from sweet rom‑com vibes to the misty peaks of Alishan, this island is a playground for every wandering tastebud.
Night Markets: Eat, Laugh, Repeat
- Shilin Night Market – the grand dame of snack streets.
- Raohe Night Market – home of the notorious stinky tofu.
- Jiufen Old Street – the nostalgic, lantern‑lit paradise.
Check out these must‑tries:
- Stinky tofu – yes, it’s actually a crowd‑pleaser.
- Hot Star Fried Chicken Chop – crispy, golden, unforgettable.
- Pig’s Blood Cake – the humble snack turned local legend.
- Ah Lan Hakka Glutinous Rice Cake – chewy, sweet, and totally unique.
- Grandma Lai’s Taro Balls – kid‑approved sticky‑sweet delight.
PS: While you’re still in Taiwan, grab Ah‑Tsung‑Shih’s renowned taro pastries online – they’re worth the detour.
Hiking After Dinner
After all those delicious bites, hit the trails in Taroko National Park:
- Qingshui Cliff – towering cliffs and sheer faces.
- Mount Hehuan – an alpine roller‑coaster of breathtaking views.
COVID‑19 resilience score: 73.5/100 – a solid effort.
Population vaccinated: 0.1 %.
4. Israel
Israel: A Slice of History Meets Mouth‑watering Adventure
Ever dreamt of wandering through a land where every stone tells a story, yet your stomach is still begging for the next bite? Israel is that place—an exotic mix of sacred sites, lively streets, and culinary delights waiting to be uncovered.
A Tel Aviv Temptation
Begin with 1–2 unhurried days in Tel Aviv—the city that never sleeps. Stroll down vibrant streets, savor fresh <a href="https://example.com" target="blank”>falafel and <a href="https://example.com" target="blank”>shakshuka, then explore the ancient port of Jaffa where history and hipster vibes collide.
Desert Dreams in the Negev
- Red Canyon – Hike through crimson cliffs, feel the desert breeze, and take in spectacular sunsets.
- Timna Park – Dive into volcanic wonders and explore a landscape shaped by the ages.
- Dead Sea – Float like a buoy, soak up salt-laden waters, and enjoy the otherworldly glow.
- Sea of Galilee – Dine by the water’s edge while enjoying views that have inspired countless stories.
- Gulf of Aqaba – Plan a quick dive or simply swim in crystal‑clear waters, just because.
With a flavor‑rich food scene, awe‑struck landscapes, and a hint of spice in every corner, Israel is the perfect blend of faith, culture, and adventure.
Covid‑19 Resilience Ranking: 71.4/100
Vaccination Coverage: 54.1% of the population fully immunized
5. South Korea
South Korea — The Ultimate Wandering Destination
Picture this: a city that’s part pop‑culture powerhouse, part beauty‑obsessed hot spot, and a surprisingly polished filmdom for horror lovers. That’s South Korea in a nutshell. Pickled kimchi, hearty jjajangmyeon, and a dash of army stew are the culinary soundtrack, while a brisk hike up the Seoul Tower guarantees you that Instagram‑worthy skyline snap.
Must‑Do City Must‑Haves
- Taste the K‑pop life — Every corner of Seoul feels like a backstage pass to the world’s coolest entertainment scene.
- Beauty Binge — Grab a waterproof double‑decker makeup kit; those Korean cosmetics are practically objects of worship.
- Thrill with a Touch of Horror — Don’t be surprised if your favorite Netflix thriller was filmed on a Korean set.
Beyond the City: Landmarks That’ll Make Your Heart Skip
- DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) — The most heavily guarded border you’ll ever cross. It’s like seeing the line in a sci‑fi epic, but it’s real.
- Boseong Green‑Tea Plains — Walk through a sea of emerald leaves and park your coffee mug for an instant Zen.
- Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak — A UNESCO monument on Jeju Island that’s perfect for sunrise hikes that put your dinner dates to shame.
- Juwangsan National Park — Camp under mountain crags that make you want to pack a blanket and a storybook.
Health Snapshot
The country scored 69.7 out of 100 on the COVID‑19 resilience ranking. Vaccination coverage for the population? A modest 0.7%. Stay alert, stay healthy, and enjoy the amazing city life!
6. China
Epic Adventures in China
When you think about China, you’ll imagine a place that’s massive and still feels welcoming – a blend of modern tech buzz and deep, centuries‑old stories. If you’re planning a trip, you’ll need more than just a paragraph to capture it all, but here’s a quick rundown that’ll stir the wanderlust and make you smile.
Nature o’ the Year
- Tiger Leaping Gorge – Wander up the dramatic Yunnan canyon and feel like a hero walking in the footsteps of the Lord of the Rings. The roaring river below and towering cliffs will leave you awe‑struck.
- Shangri‑la Grand Canyon – Glide across the party‑filled Ganggu River in a thrilling boat ride. The views are galactic, and the vibe is utterly unforgettable.
- Siguniangshan (Four Sisters Mountain) – Known as the Oriental Alps, this Sichuan gem is both a mountain playground and a panda paradise. Don’t miss those cuddly celebrities.
- Lugu Lake – For the brave explorer, a 200‑km trek from Lijiang will reward you with a pristine lake right where the Himalayas valley kisses the sky. Picture yourself, stillness in a nutshell.
City Life & Night Out
- Shanghai – If the great outdoors isn’t your jam, head east. Here’s a quick list for the city dig:
- Speak Low – Experience the slick cocktail scene; a sip of the city in liquid form.
- Tianzifang Art District – Dive into legendary crafts, quirky shops, and a street vibe that’s straight out of a gallery opening.
- Wukang Lu French Concession – Wander the french‑inspired cafés and cafés, just like a Parisian strolling through a scenic cobblestone path.
Quick Stats (just in case)
- Covid‑19 Resilience Ranking: 68.4 out of 100
- Population Vaccinated: 2.7 %
There you have it – a tasty sampling of what China offers: mountains, rivers, pandas, coffee, and a dash of nightlife. Pick any route and create a story that’ll keep you talking for years to come.
7. Japan
Japan: Where Ancient Vibes Meet Cutting‑Edge Cool
Picture this: a land where samurai‑era shrines sit next‑to neon‑lit ramen stalls, and a hot spring tub is a short walk from a zero‑gravity robot café. That’s Japan—living proof that the old and new can mingle like best friends at a birthday party.
Highlights of the Island Kingdom
- Hokkaido – Think blue lakes, snowy peaks, and a volcanic spa town that feels like a tub of chocolate milk after a long hike. The fishing ports here are as charming as a street‑market Saturday.
- Tokyo – Welcome to a techno‑dystopia with robots that pour your tea, street signs as bright as a disco ball, and restaurants that practically launch you into culinary heaven.
- Kansai Province – Split between Kyoto’s bamboo retreats, Shinto sanctuaries, and cobblestone wanderlusters, and Osaka’s bustling food scene with a fantastic aquarium that feels like a seaside adventure.
Why You’ll Fall in Love
From the keen organization of public restrooms to the colorful chaos of its cities, Japanese hospitality isn’t just a courtesy—it’s an art. Even if your Japanese is as limited as a meme, the welcoming smiles (and the brag-worthy sushi rolls) make sure you’re never left dripping in isolation.
COVID‑19 Resilience Snapshot
Resilience Score: 68/100
Vaccination Rate: 0.3% (yes, the numbers are a bit low, but the spirit is high!)
8. Thailand
Thailand: The Friendly, Frantic Playground Next to Singapore
Right next door to Singapore lies Thailand, the country that balances a chaotic city vibe with a laid‑back beach scene. It’s a place where you can hop into a tuk‑tuk to dodge Bangkok’s traffic and then, in a heartbeat, glide a long‑tail boat right past Phuket’s cruise ships.
Why Beat the Tourist Trail?
- Take a motorcycle safari on the legendary Mae Hong Son Loop – a 1,865‑bending adventure that takes you through hill‑tribe hamlets, boho towns, Thailand’s summit, and down to the valley city of Mae Hong Son.
- Calling all thrill‑seekers: head to Krabi’s Railay Beach for an unforgettable deep‑water soloing session. Scale stunning limestone cliffs and then splash straight into the crystal‑clear Andaman Sea.
COVID‑19 Snapshot
Resilience ranking: 67 out of 100
COVID‑19 vaccination rate: 0.1 %
9. Norway
Norway’s Hidden Gems: More Than Just Scenic Tracks
Sure, the classic Oslo to Bergen train and the Pulpit Rock view from Stavanger are jaw‑dropping, but Norway’s playlist doesn’t stop there. Come winter, the Northern Lights in Tromsø will light up your soul, but there are other adventures waiting in every season.
Surfing the Arctic Blues
- Unstad Beach, Lofoten – Tricks from seasoned pros to fledgling surfers; the waves are icy but the vibe is warm.
- All year round, the ocean here is like a giant blue canvas, and it’s totally doable for beginners.
Wander the Royal Route
- Hjørundfjord – The locals call it the ‘Royal Route’ because you’re practically riding a royal carriage on a pristine fjord.
- Surrounded by Sunnmøre Alps forests, it’s the perfect spot to feel like you’re in a fantasy novel.
Stats That May Surprise You
- COVID‑19 Resilience Ranking: 66.6/100 – Norway’s still pretty sturdy.
- Population with COVID‑19 Vaccination: 7.2 % – A low number, but a strong force behind those hardy snow-dodgers and wave‑fans!
So next time you plan a trip, remember that beyond the postcardia routes—there’s cold‑water surfing, alpine fjords, and even a sprinkling of resilience stats. Norway doesn’t just keep its legendary landscapes; it keeps reinventing itself for adventure seekers of all stripes.
10. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Explore the UAE – The Seven‑Star Adventure
Buckle up, wanderer! The United Arab Emirates streams its charm across seven dynamic emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, the pint‑sized Ajman, bright‑sprouting Fujairah, nature’s playground Ras al Khaimah, history buffs’ haven Sharjah, and the quiet gem Umm al Quwain. Let’s pop the lid on what makes each one tick.
Dubai – The Urban Swagger
- Burj Khalifa – the world’s tallest storybook
- Burj Al Arab – a hotel so glamorous you’ll think it’s a ship
- Souqs – your treasure hunt stops when “yalla” (let’s go) becomes your mantra
Wrap up your day with a splash at Hatta Dam: kayak amidst jagged Hajar peaks and feel the desert breeze do a pirouette.
Abu Dhabi – Rugs, Museums, and Blue Waters
- Carpet Souq – a kaleidoscope of rugs; traders from every corner of the Middle East flaunt their wares
- Louvre Abu Dhabi – a sleek, white shell that melts into azure waters; art, architecture, and a sprinkle of “wow” in every corner
Other Emirates – Tiny, Big, and Unexpected
- Ajman – the little brother everyone loves
- Fujairah – the up‑and‑coming gem of the far side
- Ras al Khaimah – a boomtown for adventurers with cliffs and dunes galore
- Sharjah – history’s living exhibit; museums, feel-good streets, and more
- Umm al Quwain – quiet and mighty in its own right
COVID Snapshot – Because We’re All Still in 2023
Resilience Rating: 66.4/100 – a decent score, but watch out for local policies.
Vaccination Coverage: 34.8% – bring your mask and a sprinkle of caution!
All of this was first revealed by YouTrip for those that can’t keep a sense of adventure in one suitcase. Good luck; the desert awaits!
