How to travel to the top places Americans are dreaming of

Ready, set, dream: #ImagineWithExpedia

Let’s face it, 2020 hasn’t exactly gone according to plan. Between canceled trips, border restrictions and working from home, we’ve all been left craving a little (or a lot) of wanderlust this year. Sinking our toes into Cancun’s beaches or exploring the quaint villages of Santorini all feel like distant dreams, as we’ve had to shift our travel agendas in 2020.

In fact, our annual Vacation Deprivation study reveals the vacation deprivation levels were already on the rise in the U.S., even pre-COVID. So, to combat this, we’re asking you to dream: If we said “imagine the places you could go,” where would your mind take you?

While you get pondering, here is some fuel to kick-start your fantasies; these are the top places that Americans are dreaming of*.

Mexico

For those who can’t wait to get to their favorite holiday hotspot, discover the famous Mayan Ruins from the comfort of your own home with the Chichen Itza Self-Guided Walking Tour or get in the mood with this Mexico playlist.

Dominican Republic

Latin vibes and stunning beaches typically make up daydreams of this beautiful piece of paradise. However, to recreate this getaway within the U.S., look no further than Miami.

The Netherlands

Feel like you’re roaming the streets of Netherlands right here at home, with a trip to the town of Pella, Iowa. From the Dutch-style architecture, tasty pastries and cheeses and beautiful flower gardens, it’s America’s own Dutch treasure.

Jamaica

Picturesque landscapes, vibrant colors and welcoming people, it’s no wonder this stunning escape tops the list! Though, for somewhere closer to home that also checks these boxes, Hawaii is the U.S.’ own idyllic island.

Puerto Rico

For those seeking a seaside escape, La Jolla may be what you’re looking for. Dubbed “The Jewel” of San Diego, it boasts beautiful beaches, great food and a slew of outdoor activities.

If you are ready to stop dreaming and start doing, it’s important to note that travel will be a lot different to what we’re used to. To help you prepare for and navigate travel in a ‘new normal’, here are some tips for those planning to travel.

1. As a first step, always check the latest travel advisories for your origin and destination before booking and departing. With things changing every day, check if the destination is accepting travelers and if there are any entry requirements or quarantine periods required, this includes entry back into your state.

2. Find flexible stays on Expedia.com by filtering for “free cancellation” or “reserve now, pay later”, and make sure to choose a refundable room type. While the non-refundable options usually offer the most attractive deal, it’s better to be safe and have the options there in case any changes need to be made.

3. Make note of any deadlines to cancel for a full refund. In many instances you can cancel up to 24 hours before check-in but for some vacation homes, the deadline could be two weeks prior

4. Try to avoid restrictive airfares that prohibit changes or non-refundable rates. Any savings you might see in the short term won’t be worth it if you end up needing to change your plans

5. Do some research around the local attractions, activities and restaurants of your chosen destination. With each region moving at its own pace, it’s good to double check what places and activities might still be closed or what safety requirements are in place.

6. For travelers concerned with health and cleanliness, you can now use the use the “Enhanced Cleaning” filter on Expedia.com to narrow search results on properties implementing enhanced health and safety policies.

7. For those jumping on a plane, we recommend you arrive at the airport earlier than normal to account for the new social distancing measures and processes being implemented.

For those who are packed and ready to go, find your ideal getaway with Expedia’s flexible stays or indulge in a staycation for a nice change of scenery.

Where are you dreaming of going?

*Based on Expedia search data for a 30 day booking window from the last 30 days (24 August – 23 September 2020)