BSMN TRAVEL

This historical national park is one like no other. From breathtaking mountain views and spectacular waterfalls to the foliage and scerne hiking trails, you are sure to become one with nature and all it has to offer on this mountain trip of a lifetime. 

The Sierra Nevada Mountain chain that makes up Yosemite was carved by an ice glacier along with weathering and erosion spanning over 30 million years. Yosemite Valley, often referred to as one of the natural wonders of the world, stretches almost 8 miles and is composed of granite walls twice the length of the empire state building (that's a whole lot of granite). The best view of the valley is located at the end of the Wawona Tunnel and is so stunning its mind blowing and literally gives the feeling of standing in the midst of a painted canvas.

Yosemite is the home to countless waterfalls created by the melting spring snowfall which produces roaring falls by mid May and running dry by early August. Due to California’s dry climate the waterfalls draw crowds of summer vacationers which makes it the busiest season for the park. While the park itself is fairly large the roads are single lane and can create a backlog of traffic during peak months. The best time to visit Yosemite, if you’re ok with missing out on the waterfalls, is early October after the crowds have receded and you can maneuver the park with ease.

 If you’re like me and love being in nature but prefer not to sleep in it, the small towns surrounding the park offer lodging accommodations for groups of all sizes. If you prefer to stay in the city, the bay area is only a scenic 3hr drive away. On the other hand, If camping is your thing and you’re interested in staying at the park, you’re in for a wait as onsite camping is currently reserved 2 years in advance. Either way, Yosemite is worth the wait and the drive and once you experience it in person you’ll understand why 

On August 30th the European Union proposed a recommendation to ban nonessential travel for U.S. citizens to European countries due to the significant increase in Covid cases in the U.S. Although September 22nd marks the official end of summer, many Americans are gearing up for their fall getaways and we want to keep you in the know before you go. Check out these updates on international travel guidelines for popular fall and winter destinations as of September 10, 2021. 

1. TURKS & CAICOS: Located northeast of Cuba and southeast of the Bahamas Turks & Caicos is known for its coral reefs, amazing seafood and crystal clear beaches. All visitors 16 and older must be fully vaccinated to enter. Testing required; quarantine is not. US Embassy | Visit Turks and Caicos | Travel authorization form.
2. UNITED ARAB EMIRATES: The UAE, with its glittering towers and luxury resorts, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the 21st century. Testing required. Quarantine protocols depend on the emirate. US Embassy.
3. UNITED KINGDOM: Leisure travel to the UK is open. The United States was on the "amber list" (labelled as being of moderate risk to visitors) as of September 4. Testing required. Quarantine in place for the unvaccinated. Rules may vary between England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. US Embassy | UK government | Red, amber and green rules | Declaration form.

1. ANTIGUA & BERMUDA: This eastern Caribbean commonwealth, known for reef-lined beaches, rainforests and resorts, is open. Testing required. Quarantine requirements differ based on vaccination status. US Embassy | Antigua and Barbuda government website.
2. BAHAMAS: Situated off the coast of the sunshine state, this large chain of islands is adored for its many beaches. Testing required, even for the fully vaccinated. No quarantine in place. US Embassy | Bahamas travel website | Bahamas Travel Health Visa. 
3. GREECE: Greece, with its many ancient ruins and islands, is open to US travelers. Testing required; exception for the fully vaccinated or those recovered from Covid. No quarantine. US Embassy | Ministry of Tourism | Passenger locator form.
4. HONDURAS: Honduras offers the best of Central America and the Caribbean in one easy trip. Testing required; fully vaccinated travelers are exempt. Conditional quarantine in some circumstances. US Embassy | Online precheck form.
5. ITALY: Through October 25, US travelers can visit Italy if either fully vaccinated or recovered from Covid-19. Testing required. US Embassy | Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation | Italy's rules for Americans | Entry form | Digital passenger locator form.

1. DOMINICAN REPUBLIC: This Caribbean nation, popular for its resorts and beaches, doesn't require tests or quarantines. US Embassy | GoDominicanRepublic.com | Electronic entry and exit form.
2. EGYPT: The best time to visit Egypt is between October and April, when temperatures are cooler, but still pleasantly warm across the country. Testing required; quarantine is not. US Embassy.
3. FRANCE: Starting September 12, US leisure travelers can only enter France if they are fully vaccinated.
4. US Embassy | French Ministry of Foreign Affairs
5. GHANA: Formerly known as the Gold Coast and celebrated for its rich history and fascinating cultural heritage, this West African nation is open to US travelers. Testing required. No quarantine. US Embassy.

1. MALDIVES: These Indian Ocean islands are a favorite among luxury travelers. Testing is required, including for vaccinated travelers. No mandatory quarantine. US Embassy | Maldives' official tourism website.
2. MEXICO: While the land border between the US and Mexico remains closed through at least September 21, US citizens can still travel to Mexico by air. No testing or quarantine requirements are in place. The US State Department lists numerous states to avoid because of crime. US Embassy.
3. SOUTH AFRICA: From the Cape's mix of coastline and mountains to the desert dunes, wild flowers and rare animals, South Africa features some of Africa's most breathtaking landscapes. Testing is required; quarantine is not. Be aware some nations aren't allowing entry to tourists who have recently been to South Africa. US Embassy.
4. ST. LUCIA: Home of the steep and towering Pitons, waterfalls and volcanic beaches, the independent Caribbean nation of St. Lucia is open. Testing required. Quarantine for unvaccinated travelers outside Caribbean travel bubble. US Embassy | St. Lucia travel website.
5. THAILAND: US passport holders can visit this Southeast Asian destination famed for its temples, beautiful beaches and spicy cuisine. Testing and quarantine requirements are in place. US Embassy | Royal Thai Embassy | Certificate of entry.