Where to Go for Summer Vacation

Vacation goals vary

Some travelers enjoy going on holiday for relaxation. Some look forward to being active. Others prefer a combo. Regardless of whether you wish to snooze in a hammock, windsurf or skydive, or want to do both, it’s exhilarating to break out of one’s regular home routine to discover relaxation and adventures. Since many vacation options exist, let us help you narrow down your choices of where to go for summer vacation.

A refreshing change

Vacations offer opportunities to explore exciting new places, meet new people, discover other cultures, taste new foods, and experience fun activities. This change of routine is often stimulating for the body, mind, and soul. However, deciding where to go for a summer vacation can be challenging for individuals and groups such as families. (Insert link to our article Where to go for family vacation.)

Let this mini sampling of vacation options motivate you to choose your ideal summer vacation:

Summertime, generally offering longer days and pleasurable climates in many places, is an enjoyable period to focus on spending quality time outdoors. For this reason, we will focus on a variety of trip opportunities that feature some time enjoyed outdoors. Below are some domestic and international summertime vacation options worth considering.

• Fun beachy vacations:

Bahamas: This sandy shore destination is an independent nation that is part of the British Commonwealth. It is made up of 700 islands and is rich in resort accommodations and activities. Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas features a 141-acre water park with high-speed slides and a rolling-rapids river ride. The resort also features 14 pools, 20 swimming areas, and Dolphin Cay, a world-class marine habitat. There are also 21 restaurants, 19 bars & lounges, a night club and casino, celebrated beaches, and an 18-hole golf course.

Ocracoke Island, North Carolina: This coastal beach town sits in North Carolina’s beloved Outer Banks. It is  part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, operated by the National Park Service. The region is enjoyed for its pristine sandy beaches, clean water, and the Island has ties to Blackbeard, the infamous pirate. The island is accessible via a ferry which accommodates vehicles. Or one may arrive by private plane or boat. The town boasts cottages and inns, such as the Ocracoke Harbor Inn with 16 rooms featuring amenities such as jacuzzi or whirlpool tubs, kitchenettes, and more. The balconies are the ideal place to enjoy a glass of wine while watching the sunset.

• Upscale-bucolic adventures:

Lake Placid, New York: If the name sounds familiar, it’s likely you’ve heard of this historic host town of the 1932 and 1980 winter Olympics. To learn more about Olympic history, locations, and ancient & modern facts, click here. Lake Placid is a charming town which sits in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains. The town sits on pretty Mirror Lake and features excellent restaurants, shopping and art galleries, and lake activities. It’s also close to amazing attractions such as Olympic Ski Jump Complex, Whiteface Mountain, and wonderful places to stay. Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa tops our list of scenic places to stay. This upscale inn offers rustic yet elegant charm that evokes feelings of warmth. On a chilly summer night, cozy up with a cocktail by the campfire. By day enjoy mountain and lake views, lakeside accommodations such as beach and dock access for water activities to include swimming,  canoeing, and kayaking. Fine dine, relax poolside, or get pampered at the in-house spa.

Grindelwald, Switzerland: The Eiger village of Grindelwald in the Bernese Oberland is surrounded by beautiful mountains to include views of Eiger north face and the Wetterhorn. This destination is not only a base for mountain climbing, but it is also a popular gateway for the Jungfrau region, offering skiing in the winter and hiking in the summertime. This ideal summer vacation spot features a nearby glacier gorge, Gletscherschlucht. The gorge lies just outside the village and features paths with waterfalls and striated limestone walls. For a memorable stay in the village, consider the Aspen Alpin Lifestyle Hotel where guests lodge in a chalet-style hotel surrounded by beautiful mountain views. Hotel amenities include a rustic “Alpstube” bar, a spa area with indoor hot tub, and more. Enjoy Swiss and international cuisine on the restaurant terrace in this stunning Bernese Alps town.

• City adventures:

Tokyo, Japan: If it’s a city adventure you’re seeking, Tokyo is among the most amazing worldwide urban destinations. Japan is considered a wonderful place to visit any time of the year due to its rich culture, delicious food, and year-round attractions. Summertime, from June to September, is considered off-season. Not only is it less crowded, but often some travel savings can be enjoyed. The Park Hotel, Tokyo, offers stunning views from atop the 25^th floor atrium. Particularly striking are views of Mount Fuji by day, when visible, and the glistening Tokyo Tower by night. The rooms feature luxurious accommodations. Not only is there fine dining and hospitality, but the hotel showcases art exhibits of epic proportions.

Charleston, South Carolina: This U.S. city is considered an historic treasure. It is noted for its beautiful colorful homes with architecture demonstrating Southern affluence and dating to the 16^th Century. Enjoy a late-afternoon summertime walking tour to observe distinct periods of architectural history, including Colonial, Georgian, Federal, Classic or Gothic Revival, Italianate, Victorian, and Art Deco. A stay at the Hyatt House Charleston – Historic District offers a restaurant and bar, pool, spa, and fitness center, and comfortable accommodations. The location puts guests in the heart of Charleston close to great things to see, including The Joseph Manigault House, The Charleston Museum, The Aiken-Rhett House, and much more.

Go for it!

There are many great reasons to travel and explore. Summertime, with its inviting warm weather, is no exception. In fact, it’s the ideal time to enjoy exploring cities, towns, neighborhoods, beaches, mountains, and countryside. Don’t be overwhelmed in your travel plans. The above suggestions on where to go for summer vacation demonstrate that most travel destinations offer something special for everyone. Don’t put your life on hold. Consider one of these great vacations or choose your own destiny.  Taking a vacation you deserve, amidst the sunshine and soft summer breeze, is bound to be memorable.