Summer Travel
Summertime conjures images of ice cream dripping down the hands and sipping on ice-cold drinks while waiting to run back into the water. Travel is also usually associated with summer because this way, children don't have to worry about submissions or exams during this time. It's a couple of months of absolute bliss where you can do as little or as much as you please.
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But really, who'd want to sit at home when there's a whole world to explore? Summer doesn't always have to mean beaches — it can also mean a simple chance to escape the heat and head to cooler altitudes. It's the perfect time to disconnect from the world and recharge on your terms.
Pick a trail and get lost in your thoughts while surrounded by incredible natural beauty. Or, book a lakefront accommodation and spend your days kayaking and barbecuing. The longer summer days mean extended hours for sightseeing and activities. Summer is also the time when museums would usually hold interactive workshops for kids and towns would organize fun outdoor festivals and free concerts.
Why is summer travel popular?
Why is summer travel popular?
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Pleasant weather
The fact that traveling is as pleasant as the weather is as accurate as it can get. The clear, sunny days during summertime easily get people out of their homes, making the streets more vibrant and enjoyable. So, the pleasant summertime weather is one of the biggest and most obvious reasons why summer travel is popular.
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Natural scenery
With blooming flowers instead of autumn leaves and lush greenery instead of snow-filled valleys, the spring and the summer offer the best of nature. While tropical and equatorial regions stay green and lush year-round, that’s not the case with most other regions. So, the better part of the spring and summer when nature is in bloom makes for more captivating landscapes.
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School breaks
Most countries offer long summer breaks, which make for one of the best times to plan family getaways. Depending on the region, schools in most countries stay closed for a few weeks between June and September. With pleasant weather and schools closed, everyone, including kids, wants to travel, and a fun holiday becomes a requisite.
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Easy access to outdoor activities
If you don’t live in a temperate climate, there are several outdoor adventures that you can’t enjoy during the autumn and winter. In such regions, activities such as hiking, kayaking, swimming, fishing, and rock climbing, among others, can only be done in the summer. Even in tropical regions and temperate climates, these activities become much more easily accessible and enjoyable in the spring and summer.
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Festivals and cultural events
Many outdoor festivals and cultural events, such as music festivals, parades, and street fairs, among others, are organized during the warmer months. Since the weather is pleasant and more people travel during the warmer months, these festivals and events get more attendance and make for a better overall experience.
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Availability of specific attractions
Other than several exciting outdoor activities, certain attractions are only open during the summer. Plenty of theme parks, specifically water parks and open-air markets, are only open during temperate weather conditions. Several cafes and restaurants that offer charming outdoor dining also only do it when the streets are clear of snow.
The best places to spend the summer
The best places to spend the summer
Traveling during the summer does not have to be limited to just coastal towns, though they are the most popular. Summer is the perfect time to take a break from the sweltering heat and make a break for the mountains. Hiking under the cool cover of towering national park trees is another great way to spend the summer. Nights can also be spent star-gazing around crackling bonfires with a glass of chilled beer. Let's take a look at some of the most popular places to spend the summer months.
Beaches
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Expect packed roads leading to the beaches as soon as schools close for the summer. If you have the privilege of living in a coastal state, you can choose to road trip down to the coast. Spend a couple of weeks by the water alternating between the beach and the pool.
Depending on who is in your travel party, beach destinations can be:
- Family-friendly: These nice towns usually include a promenade lined with great shops, restaurants, amusement parks, and a host of activities — perfect for a family-filled day.
- Scenic and secluded: These locales are ideal for couples looking to reconnect without any distractions. Small seaside towns might not have as many attractions as larger cities, but you could easily find trails to wander.
- Party-filled: Flashing lights, decadent clubs, and fun beach parties define these beach towns that are especially popular with college students looking to enjoy their break.
Popular destinations
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Miami, USA
It is impossible to think of summer travel without mentioning Miami, one of the most popular destinations in the world. But Miami is not just for the party animals. It also offers family-friendly resorts, you will have a difficult time leaving. And the best part — other than the famous beaches — is the various cuisines you can dine on.
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Marbella, Spain
Marbella is a vibrant resort city sitting on the charming Spanish riviera of Costa del Sol. Surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea to the south and the Sierra Blanca Mountains to the north, Marbella offers a range of magnificent landscapes. From sampling delectable tapas in Old Town to engaging in watersports, Marbella offers a variety of fun things to do. It also has all kinds of accommodations, including beach resorts and Airbnb vacation rentals, among others. For a charming day trip from Marbella, you can take an hour-long drive to the gorgeous and historic city of Malaga.
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Phuket, Thailand
Phuket is a charming Thai island province with a lush rainforest and upscale resorts off the southwestern coast. With the provincial capital of Phuket City and the resort town of Patong, the island boasts two outstanding destinations where you can witness the vibrant street life of Thailand. Other than checking out the magnificent beaches, you can also witness an eclectic vibe in Patong’s nightclubs and shop for local crafts and produce in the night markets across the island. For a summer wellness retreat in Phuket, you can stay at one of the spa resorts available. You can also find a variety of other accommodations in Phuket, including resorts with water slides, where you can have a fun summer with your kids.
Lakes
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Another excellent summer choice for families is lakes — where you can book the most delightful cabins by the water. Many lakes are surrounded by beautiful mountains, such as Lake Tahoe, or protected forests, such as Lake Champlain. Lakes also provide a mix of recreational activities as well as a chance to join community events over the summer, such as fun barbecues.
Popular destinations
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Lake Tahoe, USA
Lake Tahoe is a popular summer travel destination, so make sure to begin your day early to avoid big crowds. Instead of spending the entire summer at one place, rent an RV and drive along the coast. You might be away from the glitzy Vegas Strip in this part of Nevada, but the casinos are just as spectacular.
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Lake Como, Italy
Surrounded by hills and several gorgeous towns, Lake Como is one of the largest and most picturesque lakes in Italy. For one of the most exciting things to do in Lake Como, you can rent a boat and go sailing to witness even more mesmerizing views. For the most picture-perfect towns around Lake Como, you can check out Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio, to name a few. To explore these towns in the best way possible, you can also take a stroll along their narrow lanes. Among some of the best accommodations with views of the lake, you can book a hotel with a pool or a villa rental, among others.
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Lake Louise, Canada
Lake Louise is a small, picturesque lake surrounded by towering mountains in the Canadian Rockies. While the lake freezes in the winter and the surrounding area makes for a stunning ski destination, it feels like an altogether different place during the pleasant summers. It’s situated near the town of the same name, which straddles the Bow River. The remote town, with the sky-high mountains, the river, and the lake, makes for an ideal escape from day-to-day life. To make the most of your summer travels to Lake Louise, you can stay in a cozy cabin rental and embark on several hikes, including the mesmerizing Lake Agnes.
Islands
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Island life is the best, especially if you can pretend that no responsibilities and work obligations are waiting once you return. Many living here are either retired or excited holiday-goers on no fixed schedule. Therefore, expect a laidback lifestyle and let your plans be spontaneous.
Popular destinations
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Maui, Hawaii
Is it even possible to think about summertime without conjuring lovely images of the pristine beaches of Hawaii? The island state of Maui is not just for couples or families but also an excellent choice for solo, LGBTQ+, and travelers with mobility issues. Plus, while you're here, you can visit all sorts of attractions, such as Wailea Beach, ʻĪao Valley State Monument, and Pipiwai Trial, among others.
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Santorini, Greece
There are plenty of things unique to the Greek island of Santorini. Whether its beaches with red and black volcanic pebbles or its eccentric and comfortable cave hotels, you’re guaranteed a distinctive experience on the island. Among other unique things, the island is known for its iconic white-washed buildings sitting on cliffs, which make strolling on its street a charming experience. If you’re planning a trip to the island, you can find a variety of accommodations, including modest budget hotels, lavish beach resorts, and some of the most amazing Airbnb vacation rentals. During your stay, you can check out some of the best places to eat in Santorini to savor authentic Greek cuisine. Moreover, you can take a scenic hike along Caldera, the submerged volcanic crater, for a stunning outdoor activity.
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Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Part of the French Polynesian islands in the southern Pacific Ocean, Bora Bora is known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. The unspoiled paradise boasts overwater bungalows and chic luxury villas, making it an ideal place for a scenic getaway. Other than magnificent seascapes, tourists can also admire the views of the stunning Mount Otemanu, which stands tall in the center of the island. For an adventurous day, tourists can book a yacht charter and embark on a pleasant sail around Bora Bora and other islands of French Polynesia. During a stay at one of the dive resorts, tourists can also enjoy snorkeling to witness the coral reefs.
National parks
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No school days, pleasant weather, and more make for the best time to go camping in the parks. If you are not one to rough it, there are several hotels and unique glamping sites near national and state parks. In the USA, you have the iconic Yellowstone and Grand Canyon National Parks. Other famous parks around the world include the Kruger National Park in South Africa and the Komodo National Park in Indonesia.
Popular destinations
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Kenai Fjords National Park, USA
Everything is a little bit more expensive than in the lower states in the continental US — but a trip to Alaska is well worth your time. Due to its remote location, it is no wonder that its wondrous national parks are some of the least visited. Kenai Fjords National Park, however, is one of the easiest to get to due to its location right outside of Seward. This magnificent national park is at a unique crossroads, where visitors can explore the ocean, glaciers, and mountains. Fishing is also a great activity. In addition to traditional hotels, tourists can book nearby fishing lodges, glamping spots, and cabins to elevate their stay.
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Banff National Park, Canada
With plenty of gorgeous lakes and sky-high peaks of the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park is one of the most magnificent and popular national parks in Canada. While the national park is a popular destination for winter recreation, such as skiing and ice skating, it also offers plenty of fun outdoor activities during the summer. The national park’s visitor center is in the town of Banff, which also features plenty of accommodations for tourists. To make the most of your trip, you can stay at a spa resort in Banff or a secluded cabin in Banff National Park. To witness some of the most magnificent views, you can get to one of the hiking and trekking spots in Banff. If you’re up for an adventure, you can also hire an RV or campervan rental for Banff National Park.
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Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
New Zealand boasts unparalleled natural beauty, evident in its magnificent coastal areas and national parks. A large extent of the western coast of New Zealand’s South Island is dominated by fjords. To witness the best of those fjords, you can plan a visit to Fiordland National Park in the southwest corner of the country. From hiking to kayaking, there are several ways to admire the breathtaking landscapes of the region. Te Anau, which is considered the gateway to the national park, features different accommodations for travelers, including Airbnbs and hotels. Other than exploring the national parks, one of the best things to do when in Te Anau is embarking on the 73 mi (117 km) drive to Milford Sound.
Mountains
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Escape the scorching heat and head to higher altitudes where you can enjoy cozy bonfires and a chance to fully rejuvenate. While these places witness peak visitors during winter, there is still plenty to do during the summer. Go on scenic hikes, stopping along the way for an impromptu picnic, take afternoon strolls in some towns, and opt for relaxing hot tub soaks in the evening if possible.
Popular destinations
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Chattanooga, USA
Located right at the foot of the Appalachian Mountains, this stunning city is perfect for unwinding. There are also lots of romantic getaway spots here and rentals for a great family holiday. There are many museums to explore, restaurants to try, and trails to lose yourself in. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and witness the spectacular offerings of Chattanooga!
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Zermatt, Switzerland
With summer skiing spots such as Klein Matterhorn and Snowpark Zermatt, it’s no wonder that Zermatt is one of the most renowned ski destinations in Europe. Other than a day of skiing, you can make the most of this stunning hill town by embarking on hiking trails and witnessing breathtaking views. Every year in August, the town celebrates the Folklore Festival, where tourists can learn about local culture and traditions. Bahnhofstrasse, the central street, features several accommodations, including chalets and hotels with views. During your stay, you can also check out several boutique shops and restaurants along the charming street.
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Hakone, Japan
A little over two hours by train from Tokyo, the mountain town of Hakone is one of the best getaways from the Japanese capital. Among other things, Hakone is known for its charming Lake Ashi, abundant hot springs, and stunning views of Mount Fuji. As a must-do in Hakone, you can take a therapeutic soak in one of the hot springs with the best scenery. For a traditional experience in Hakone, you can stay in an onsen ryokan and savor some of the best local specialties. For more accommodation options, you can also find chic Airbnb vacation rentals and hostels in Hakone.
Other underrated destinations to consider for your summer vacation
Other underrated destinations to consider for your summer vacation
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Bay of Islands, New Zealand
Sitting on the northwestern Northland Peninsula of New Zealand, the Bay of Islands is a unique region comprising numerous small islands, islets, and peninsulas. The scenic area boasts several tourist towns, including Kerikeri, Russell, and Paihia. While Kerikeri, which is the largest town in the region, boasts waterfalls and water inlets, the peninsular town of Russell offers some of the best landscapes in the Bay of Islands. Depending on where you want to stay in the Bay of Islands, you can book a hotel in Russell, a Bookabach holiday home in Paihia, or an Airbnb vacation rental in Kerikeri for the most comfortable time.
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Pula, Croatia
Pula is an underrated Croatian destination that sits on the tip of the Istrian Peninsula in the Adriatic Sea. Other than its stunning coast and harbor, Pula is known for its rich history and charming historic structures, especially from the Roman and Venetian periods. Among other things to do in Pula, you can admire the ancient architecture and tour the vineyards. Outside city limits, you can take the 20-minute drive to the village of Premantura and check out the coastal Cliffs and Caves of Kamenjak at the southernmost tip. For a comfortable stay during your visit to Pula, you can book a villa with a private pool or an Airbnb vacation rental.
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Gili Islands, Indonesia
Sitting off the eastern coast of the island of Lombok, Gili Islands is a charming archipelago of three islands with uninterrupted beaches. The three islands sit in ascending size order from west to east, with Gili Air in the east, Gili Meno at the center, and Gili Trawangan in the west. While you can easily explore Gili Air on foot, Gili Trawangan has more attractions and can be toured on rental bicycles. Among other activities on the islands, you can enjoy snorkeling while on an all-day boat cruise. You can also find comfortable accommodations on all three islands, but villas with beach access in Gili Trawangan make for the most lavish retreat. For a slightly more modest stay, you can find several Airbnb vacation rentals across the three islands.
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Huaraz, Peru
Huaraz is a scenic mountain city in the Peruvian Andes, sitting at an elevation of a little above 10,000 ft (3,048 m). With the magnificent Huascaran National Park and ski-high peaks of the Cordillera Blanca mountain range to its east, Huaraz offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Peru. Among other things to do in Huaraz, you can take scenic hikes and embark on adventurous climbing expeditions. You can also check out a range of urban attractions in the city, including markets, restaurants, and nightclubs. For a homelike stay, you can book one of the Airbnb vacation rentals in Huaraz.
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Madagascar, East Africa
Madagascar, an island nation sitting off the southwestern coast of Africa, is best known for its rich biodiversity. For those planning a summer trip, the period between April and September is considered the best time to explore Madagascar. While the climate in Madagascar is temperate year-round, the period between April and September is the dry season with minimum rainfall. During this period, tourists have the best chances of witnessing the wildlife and the most pleasant weather for hitting the beaches and embarking on hikes. For the best time in Madagascar, you can stay in an Airbnb vacation rental in Nosy Be or in one of the beach resorts across the country.
Activities to enjoy during your summer vacation
Activities to enjoy during your summer vacation
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Staying cool is the top agenda in everyone’s mind as soon as the temperatures rise and we see an increase in ‘cooking on the car’ videos. This can mean something as simple as diving into the community pool or making summer travel plans. Just as budgets vary, there are a variety of destinations to choose from — both close to home and abroad.
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Island cruises
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Book yourselves a lovely cruise for the summer and spend your days sipping pina coladas and island hopping. If you prefer a little privacy, yachts can also be rented for the day or a week as you explore the Caribbean or the Mexican coastline in Cancun.
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Hiking
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Not only is it an inexpensive activity, but in some instances, it is also free! It is also one of those activities that can be done at your own pace as per individual preference. There is no shortage of hikes in the Continental US, and when you wish to spread your wings, Argentina and Slovenia are also quite popular hiking and trekking spots.
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Walking tours
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Small resort towns and historic city centers are best explored on foot as visitors wander the narrow streets and alleyways to find hidden gems. Walking tours are no longer limited to just historical sites and now include a lot of unique offerings, such as ghosts (if you believe in them), breweries, and night tours.
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Camping
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With pleasant weather and chances to go on scenic hikes, camping becomes all the more enjoyable during the spring and summer. While camping in the summer, you don’t have to worry about packing multiple layers, and it can just be treated like an extended picnic.
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Fishing
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Fish tend to be most active in temperate conditions, making the spring and summer the best times to go fishing. While it might become too hot in some destinations during the summer, the mornings stay relatively pleasant everywhere, making for the best conditions for fishing.
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Stargazing
With warmer and more pleasant nights, summer becomes an ideal time for stargazing. Dark sky preserves, which are the best spots for stargazing, are often set in remote locations and mountains. So, if you’re planning to visit a dark sky preserve, summer naturally becomes the best time to make the trip. You can also stargaze on your camping adventure if you make sure to plan it during or around the new moon phase.
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Safaris
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Different regions have different seasons as the best time to spot wildlife. If you’re planning a jungle safari in Africa, the dry summer months are the best time to witness animals in the wild. This is also the animal migration period in several African regions, making it even better for a wildlife safari.
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Cultural immersion
One of the best ways to beat the heat is to walk into the cool confines of a museum or an art gallery. Not only will it keep it be a nice break from the sun, but you will also learn some interesting facts and history about a specific place.
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Water sports
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Summer travel season is all about having a good time. Sit on that banana boat, learn to paddle board, and get that scuba certification that you have been putting off for a few months.
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Outdoor festivals
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Summertime also means exciting seasonal festivals and community events, such as the National Balloon Classic and Maine Lobster Festival — all of which are must-visits for a more fantastic experience.
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Amusement parks
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Among theme parks and amusement parks, plenty of water parks get closed in winter, especially in the regions that experience sub-zero temperatures. But, come summer, water parks become one of the best things to do with kids. While most other amusement parks stay open year-round, the spring and summer are generally ideal seasons to explore them.
Tips on how to beat the summer crowds
Tips on how to beat the summer crowds
Summer is quite undoubtedly one of the most popular seasons to travel, for both domestic and international journeys. It is, however, still possible to enjoy a holiday without constantly waiting in queues and getting a single photo without background crowds.
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Choose off-beat destinations
The advantage of using off-beat destinations other than fewer crowds is that you enjoy an almost private experience. Travel to some of the least visited national parks and be in complete awe of the magnificent natural beauty that you encounter. These sites are not unpopular because they are not worthy of a visit but because it takes a little bit more effort to plan a trip there. But the experience will be well worth the triumph of reaching there.
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Make reservations in advance
It goes without saying that during peak summer travel season, book your flights and hotels in advance. This is also applicable to camping sites in popular destinations, such as Zion National Park in Utah. Also, be prepared to pay prime rates during this season.
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Be flexible with your itinerary
It is possible to avoid crowds and get better deals if you travel just before or right after the peak season. If you are traveling internationally to a destination such as the Maldives, monsoon season is the perfect time to grab exceptional discounts. If you are lucky, it will hardly rain while you are there! Moreover, you can adjust your plans based on unexpected discoveries and even local recommendations for a fun getaway!
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Explore beyond the tourist-specific areas
A trip to Rome is incomplete without at least one photograph in front of the Trevi Fountain, and a trip to Turkey needs to be documented in front of the Blue Mosque. Don’t skip these — but try to venture away from the main cities to gain insight and have a more fruitful holiday where you are enjoying the attractions instead of simply waiting in line.
Things to consider when planning your summer vacation
Things to consider when planning your summer vacation
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Destination
Depending on the setting you want to experience, you can plan your summer vacation in a variety of locations. From urban explorations to remote islands, you can plan any kind of vacation and narrow down your destination options accordingly. You can also choose your destination depending on whether you’re traveling alone, with your partner, or with family.
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Budget
When planning your summer vacation, you can consider your budget and decide whether you want to go abroad or somewhere in your country. Moreover, except for some high-end destinations around the world, you can choose accommodations based on your budget at most destinations. If you want to splurge, you can stay in luxury resorts and 5-star hotels. If you’re low on budget, you can find comfortable lodgings in homestays and capsule hotels.
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Accommodation
Tourists today have more options than ever when it comes to accommodations. From facility-based accommodations at hotels and resorts to independent and privacy-based accommodations at vacation rentals, you can choose from a range of options. If you’re planning your summer vacation somewhere more temperate, make sure to book accommodation with air conditioning to stay comfortable.
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Activities
From city explorations to outdoor adventures, you can choose from a range of activities on your summer vacation. If you’ve chosen your destination based on the activity, you’re certainly good to go. But if you don’t have any specific activity in mind, you can search for the best activities in and around the destination you want to go to.
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Packing essentials
While some essentials, such as cameras and camera accessories, device chargers, basic medicines, and personal care items, have to be in your bags wherever you go, you can also pack specific items based on the location you're going to. From appropriate clothing to outdoor activity equipment, make sure to pack all the essentials based on your location and itinerary.
Plan a getaway for a fun and memorable summer
Plan a getaway for a fun and memorable summer
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Just thinking about summer is enough to make people feel excited, especially about the many possibilities of the fun adventures that lie ahead. It is the perfect time to embark on an unforgettable adventure and come back fully refreshed. So, make sure to prepare your documents and itinerary for a hassle-free stay.
Summer travel in Europe
Summer travel in the United States and Canada
Summer travel in Asia
Summer travel in other destinations around the world
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