Every year, Forbes compiles a list of places travelers can look forward to visiting the next year. Right now, travel seems like the furthest thing from achievable due to the ongoing pandemic and travel restrictions set in place by many countries. While many countries still remain off-limits, more and more are reopening their borders, provided strict health and safety protocols are in place. All tourist establishments are doing their part to implement these procedures to make travel safer for tourists. 

According to Forbes, not only will once over-touristed destinations be less crowded, travelers will be looking for more isolated places. This is an added advantage for Maldives, as our unique geographical features allow natural isolation due to the scattering of islands and the one-island-one-resort concept.

This year, Maldives has made it to the list of 20 places to travel to in 2021. “The Maldives isn’t a “new” destination, but in 2021 we anticipate it being more popular than ever,” says Julie Danziger of Embark Beyond. The reason? “Combine recent peace negotiations and incredible new hotels, along with the Maldives being the ultimate for seclusion, and it’s destined for a boom in 2021.” In addition to being a naturally socially distant getaway, the destination has enacted strict COVID-19 procedures and all of the islands’ resorts and accommodations are taking precautions—and then some. Properties like lti Maafushivaru have introduced complimentary PCR testing, eliminating the need for guests to travel off property to a testing facility. Besides that, the Maldives is launching the world’s first destination loyalty program.

Danziger is a fan of Velaa, a private island that many will have their eye on for 2021. “It is not pretentious yet it is blow-your-mind wow,” she says. For those looking for a great value, Danziger suggests Niyama, which is “all about understated luxury and truly special.” Other 2021 openings to watch include Patina Maldives, designed by renowned Brazilian architect Marcio Kogan; Ekulhivaru, the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve property in the Maldives; and Centara Grand Muthaafushi Resort & Spa Maldives, which will have an underwater restaurant and a floating cinema.

Read the full list here.

[Reference article by Forbes]