Last updated on September 13th, 2021
As more and more people get vaccinated, travel is picking up. And with the arrival of summer, most people are trying to get out more. So I’ve compiled a list of 11 great places to travel this summer. Stick around and learn what each area has to offer!
1. Machu Picchu
The first spot on the list is Machu Picchu. Located in Peru, high in the Andes Mountains, is Machu Picchu, a 15th-century Incan citadel. The stunning architecture of these ancient ruins remains an undeniable symbol of the Incan Empire.
If you are looking to connect with the old world this summer, Machu Picchu is the perfect location to take you back in time to when the Incan Empire was at its best.
This location is excellent because not only do you get to learn more about the lost Incan Empire, but you also get this fantastic view! There is nothing like a gorgeous view to make me feel refreshed and well-rested.
2. Antigua
Antigua is one of the major islands on the dual-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda. With this destination located in the eastern part of the Caribbean, it’s the perfect location for a beach vacation.
Why travel to one beach when you can travel to several? The island of Antigua has 365 beaches! How insane! That’s a beach for every day of the year! Talk about variety.
This island is full of adventurous outdoor activities, but my favorite and unique activity is the hikes! Precisely because of the views! (I’m a sucker for a pretty sight!) This destination is an absolute go-to for a beach getaway.
3. Bali
The next up on the list is Bali, Indonesia. If you are the type of traveler who likes to spend your time in nature, I highly recommend Bali. There is just about every type of nature scene you could think of located here. You can find scenic lakes, canyons, rivers, gardens, and beautiful waterfalls throughout the island.
Another awesome reason to visit Bali is for the food! Eating local cuisine is one of the best ways to learn and experience the culture!
Bali is the perfect summer destination for you if you want to get in touch with nature on a deeper level or stuff your face with some flavor-packed Balinese Cuisine.
4. Paris
Paris, located in northern central France, is the capital of France. This European city is well known for its art, fashion, cuisine, and rich history. Paris is one of my absolute favorite destinations, and it only fits that I include it on the list.
Like most of its neighboring cities, Paris is famous for its architecture. Paris has numerous landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, that take your breath away. These stunning pieces of art make a great spot for photos too!
And speaking of photos, you need a bomb outfit to match the caliber of these gorgeous landmarks. If you find yourself lacking in this area, never fear because Paris remains, till this day, the capital of fashion. So there are plenty of opportunities to update your wardrobe while staying in this city!
Why make Paris your summer destination? Well, it’s magical. The entire time I was in Paris, I felt like I was staring at a movie! This destination is best for all my fairy-tail travelers, fashion icons, and everyone else in between.
5. Hawaii
Coming up 5th on our list is the beautiful, tropical paradise, Hawaii, located in the central Pacific Ocean. Hawaii became the 50th U.S. State in 1959, making it the final state to be added to the U.S. I think it can be argued. They saved the best for last.
This gorgeous island includes a chain of emerged volcanic mountains, which form 8 significant islands. Is that not insane?! Hawaii is home to the world’s most active volcanoes in the world. Don’t let this discourage you, though! You can skip the volcano tour.
Hawaii has a vibrant history and culture unlike any around the world. Explore and experience the fantastic culture by roaming ancient temples, eating fresh meals, and vibing with the people of Hawaii. This destination is heaven on earth and a must-see!
6. Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is an island located in the Caribbean, between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. This insanely popular summer destination is famous for its rich history and culture, accessibility, nature and adventure, food, and much more!
Puerto Rico is part of U.S. territory which means Americans don’t need a passport to travel to the island. And the fact that it’s only a short plane ride from any major U.S. city is a bonus!
This beautiful island has some of the prettiest beaches in the world with pearly, white beaches and clear, blue waters. Some of the best beaches are outside the city of San Juan. Be sure to check out these beaches on your trip down: Sund Bay Beach, Luquillo Beach, and Playa Crash Boat.
7. Mexico
The following location on the list is specifically for my history-buff travelers. Like Peru, Mexico is also home to ancient ruins! Learn and see first hand the Mayan ruins of the once-thriving Mayan civilization!
Mexico is also well-known for its beaches. More about beaches, I know! But it’s summer! You should be spending as much time as possible this summer on a beach. Unlike some of the other locations mentioned earlier, Mexico also has a black sand beach…mic drop!
Besides its gorgeous beaches and history-filled adventures, Mexico is also famous for its food. I’m speaking directly to my food lovers! If you love Mexican food or love to try new food, Mexico is the place to be this summer!
8. Cairo
Cairo is the national capital of Egypt and sits on the banks of the Nile River. This city is on the list for its rich Egyptian history and culture. Cairo has been standing (in the exact location it is now) for over 1,000 years now! That’s so wild to consider. Despite the fact this city has been around for so long, it’s one of the most popular and bustling cities in the Middle East. In other words, this is not the destination for a quiet trip, but it is most definitely worth the constant buzz and noise.
One of the biggest reasons so many people travel to Cairo is to learn and experience more firsthand Egyptian history. The pyramids located outside of Cairo remain a hot spot for travelers. And for a good reason, you can’t very well go all the way to Cairo without seeing the pyramids! One of the most famous pyramids is the Great Pyramid of Giza. It is the oldest and largest pyramid of the Giza pyramid complex.
Besides the pyramids, other significant historical sites like the Giza Necropolis, the Egyptian museum, the Al-Azhar Mosque, and much more.
9. Costa Rica
Coming in ninth place is Costa Rica, a Central American country surrounded by the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. This tropical destination is known for its awesome national parks. There are a total of 28 national parks, 58 wildlife refuges, and 32 protected zones! With its vast amount of land and forested area, Costa Rica is home to 10,000 species of plants and trees and over 500,000 species of animals! You can pick up your chin off the ground now.
This destination is perfect for a wildlife adventure & equipped with various activities such as river rafting, cave tubing, and zip-lining. Or you can spend your time visiting some of the wildlife animals like the sea turtles and sloths.
In addition to the biodiverse wildlife and outdoor adventures, this country also has a thriving city life filled with plenty of chances to try some local cuisine, shop, or go out for drinks. A trip to Costa Rica can be whatever you make it, and there is something for everyone to enjoy!
10. Tanzania
Almost twice the size of California, Tanzania is the largest country in East Africa and is bordered by the Indian Ocean. There are several reasons this country made it to the list, but the first is because of the views. The Serengeti is a protected area that gives visitors a chance to witness the incredible wildlife of Africa, all while getting a panoramic view of the vast landscape. Talk about a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Visiting the Serengeti is a highly safe and fun-filled adventure you won’t want to miss.
Another reason this destination made it on the list is because of the underwater wildlife. Most of the time, when people think of Africa, the dry land safari is all that comes to mind. However, Tanzania is full of underwater wildlife just waiting to be explored. Just off the mainland coast of Tanzania, visitors can dive into the depths of the largest marine protected area in the Indian Ocean off of Mafia Island. Mafia Island and its reef are a must-see when traveling to Tanzania!
Like most of the destinations on this list, Tanzania has much to offer, ranging from the wildlife, the culture and history, views, gorgeous beaches, and much more.
11. Barcelona
Barcelona is the capital of Spain’s Catalonia region and is mainly known for its art and architecture. However, this vibrant city is full of adventurous opportunities! Interestingly enough, Barcelona has 73 different neighborhoods, and when I say different, I mean different. Each community has its charm filled with its grocery stores, restaurants, shops, etc. The vibe ranges from neighborhood to neighborhood, so it’s like visiting mini-cities within Barcelona. This adds a whole other level to immersing oneself in the culture. Happy exploring!
This city is also home to several beaches and mountains. There are very few cities that have both, so be sure to take advantage of both. And because Barcelona is on the Mediterranean coastline, the vibrant city is right next to the beach, so you don’t have to travel far.
Barcelona is also known for its insane nightlife. This city has a plethora of bars and clubs to choose from for a night in the town. As mentioned earlier, you can find bars and clubs in many neighborhoods, and each has its charm. However, El Raval is a highly vibrant neighborhood in Barcelona and has some of the best nightlife in the city. It’s the perfect area to go bar hopping!
All of these destinations are excellent choices for your summer vacation. Although, after the last year we’ve all had, any trip this summer is welcome. Wherever you decide to go, remember to travel safely and smartly!
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