Now is the perfect time to start planning your summer adventures! With the most agreeable weather, summer is always a busy travel time the world over. We love helping our clients to strike the balance between not-too-crowded but still perfectly pleasant summer destinations. Whether you’re looking to head to cooler climates, a sunny warm beach vacation, or someplace with a little bit of everything, we have you covered. Here are our top 10 summer destinations:
To Escape the Heat:
Ireland
The emerald isle really shines during the summer months. There are festivals and celebrations in every town, and you can enjoy some sunny beach time at one of Ireland’s 88 blue flag beaches. The sun doesn’t set until ten pm, so you can make the most of those nice long days. Outdoor adventures are much more appealing at this time of year, and you can best appreciate the full scale of the rolling hills and sea cliffs. The always-friendly Irish are in full celebration mode in the summer, and locals will fill the pubs and beer gardens with joy, music, and good cheer.
[ Photo Credit: Nikki via Shared Adventures ]
Norway
During the Arctic summer, you can experience the magnificence of the midnight sun, and fill your days to the brim with outdoor activities. From May to July the sun never sets, creating a truly unique experience. Summer offers the chance to maximize what Norway has to offer. There are incredible hiking trails, mountain biking, wildlife excursions, fishing, waterfalls and more. This is a great time to explore the fjords and travel around the country – especially if you like exploring independently.
[If you’re interested in exploring Norway in winter – check out THIS blog post!]
Iceland
Like Norway, Iceland experiences especially long days in the summer. Perfect for enjoying the myriad of activities and cultural events. It’s the best time to see puffins and whales. It’s easier to drive around the highlands, which are inaccessible in winter. And you can still enjoy some glaciers, icebergs, and snowy mountains. You can truly explore the land of fire and ice without restrictions.
[Photo Credit: Ann via Shared Adventures.]
For the Perfect Sun-drenched Beach Escape
Moorea
Part of a group of islands in French Polynesia, Moorea is famous for its vibrant beauty and culture. In summer the weather is pleasant, the climate is dry and you can enjoy the beaches to their fullest. With the classic over-water bungalows, world-class beaches, stunning mountains, and incredible weather – what’s not to love about summer in Moorea? Technically — because Moorea is in the southern hemisphere – you’re visiting in winter. But that is all the more reason to take advantage of the warm weather and gorgeous seas.
[Photo Credit: Heather & Jesse via Shared Adventures — Read about their Moorea honeymoon here!]
Barbados
This island is beautiful year-round, but the summer is an especially great time to visit. The seas are a bit warmer and the beaches are wider due to tidal conditions. It’s not peak tourist season so you can enjoy the island without the crowds. Although summer is hurricane season, Barbados is generally spared because it is farther south than the islands that sit right in the middle of the hurricane belt. You’ll also get to enjoy all the local musicians and festivals, like the famous Crop Over celebration in July.
Algarve
Portugal’s southernmost region is the perfect European destination for a sun-drenched beach vacation. The summer months are warm, but the sea breeze is cool and the refreshing water of the Atlantic is perfect for swimming. With hardly any rainfall and long sunlit days, the Algarve has all the makings of a quintessential beach holiday. You can enjoy the forest hiking trails, hanging out by the pool, or lounging on the beaches (this region boasts both long sandy stretches and more hidden cove-like beaches.) There are plenty of water activities like surfing, boat tours, kayaking, and SUP. And in the evenings, you can enjoy the quaint coastal towns as you sip traditional wines and savor the delectable cuisine.
[Photo Credit: tim-ten-cate via Unsplash ]
For Something in between
Copenhagen
Vibrant city life, lush gardens, and a climate that’s still cool enough to really enjoy the sauna. You can explore the open-air markets, the lovely biking culture, and festivals. Any place that experiences bone-chilling winters tends to thrive in the joy of summer. The city comes alive, and since it is such a walkable location, you will love strolling along the streets and soaking in the sunshine.
[Photo Credit: Ann via Shared Adventures]
Tanzania
Combine beautiful beaches with incredible wildlife. You can take advantage of the dry season to see the most wildlife on your safari. Then head to Zanzibar for soul-fufilling sun and sand. From Mount Kilimanjaro to the Serengeti National Park – there are many reasons to enjoy Tanzania in summer. Tanzanian summers are marked by clear skies, pleasantly warm temperatures, and incredible scenery. Tanzania is a great safari destination since it is home to some of the best wildlife viewing on earth. Combine that with the turquoise beaches of Zanzibar — you can enjoy a tranquil and extraordinary adventure.
Slovenia
This beautiful hidden gem thrives in the summer. Slovenia has towering mountains, lush forests, thermal waters, and breathtaking views. There is a delightful blend of warm sunshine, local festivals, and stunning landscapes. The weather is generally pleasant, and you can enjoy swimming and paddle boarding on the lakes, charming towns, and delicious food. Since this is still somewhat of a hidden gem it is a great, not-too-crowded summer destination.
[Photo Credit: arnaud-steckle via Unsplash]
Are you inspired to start planning your summer adventure yet? Whether you’d like to explore one of these fabulous destinations or have somewhere else in mind – we’re always ready to help! Reach out and let us take the stress out of planning your summer vacation.
