Now that summer is upon us, the urge to vacation is becoming more and more widespread. Here’s a look at some of our favorite locations to enjoy.
1. Costa Rica
With it’s long, sandy beaches and it’s plentiful rainforest, Costa Rica has something for everyone. Not only is it extremely affordable once there but it’s also very inexpensive to travel to. Depending on what you enjoy the most, this country has a little bit of everything. There are opportunities to snorkel, ride ATV’s on volcanoes, zipline and even just relax on the beach. Click here for airfare to San Jose.
2. Jamaica
With its pristine beaches and laid back vibe, Jamaica is perfect getaway destination. It’s rich culture invites you in and the climate is always near perfect. Go cliff jumping inland or ride a horse on the beach and enjoy the landscape and island mentality for a week. Negril Airport is currently closed but Montego Bay International has inexpensive flights inbound that are sure to get your dream vacation going.
3. Ecuador
South America has recently become one of the top travel destinations in the last decade. Not only is its immense culture and slower pace of life more attractive to the perpetually busy Americans but to travel within South America is very affordable. Ecuador is no exception; you can visit Ecuador for fairly low airfare but the daily cost of living while there is astonishingly low. Ecuador is home to the Galapagos Islands; a nature and animal mecca, Quito and Guayaquil. Take advantage of the low cost of travel now as it is becoming a hotter and hotter tourist spot.
4. Alaska
Alaska is truly the final frontier and the best time to visit is absolutely late July/ early August. The weather finally clears the temperatures rise to a mild climate everyday. The stunning beauty and untouched quality of nature is astonishing. While there, be sure to visit the calving glaciers as they crash into the sea below and take a ride through Denali National Park to see the great Mount McKinley. Or fly into Anchorage and take the Alaska Rail Road throughout the entire state to see the breathtaking views all around you.
5. Paris
Paris, the city of lights is always a top contender when it comes to summer travel. The clear blue skies behind the Eiffel Tower, the sun shining off the Louvre and the Seine rolling its way through the city. Although flying into Paris can be expensive, seeing it in the summer is truly magnificent. But, if you’re a budget traveler, think about going in the early Fall or late Spring in order to avoid some of the crowds that can gather.
6. Ireland
Ireland is truly as beautiful as you envision it to be. The rolling green hills, the ancient culture that seems to overwhelm all of your senses and the friendliest people on earth. Fly into Dublin and rent a car to leisurely meander through the country or take a guided tour around the West coast. Visit the walled city of Derry, see the mystic Giant’s Casuseway or go to the seven story tall Guinness Museum which has been proclaimed as a Disneyland for beer lovers. Ireland is truly a delight and one of the more beautiful countries in the world.
7. Cambodia
Angkor Wat, the Royal Palace and Priah Vihear Temple are just a glimpse of what Cambodia has to offer. Aside from being extremely affordable, with an average cost of $9/day, Cambodia is home to some of the nicest people on earth. The culture is rich and the history is ancient. Accommodations are widespread and affordable depending on what you’re comfortable staying in. Click here for flights to Phnom Penh.
8. South Africa
Africa has and still is regarded in a way that it almost seems unreachable. It appeals to those whose innate sense of adventure calls them there and those who want to see the wild in its most natural environment. South Africa made our list because it is the most accessible and also has a lot of options once in country. Cradle of Humankind is a majestic wonder and Kruger National Park allows visitors to get up close and personal with animals only ever seen in zoos. Although travel to and from Africa in general is a little more expensive, travelers say that it was the destination of a lifetime and it was always worth every penny.
9. Clearwater, Florida
Clearwater, Florida is located on the Gulf of Mexico on the West coast of Florida. It is home to Major League Baseball teams, some of the best beaches in the world and beach bars galore. While there, you can visit Pier 60 which is home to merchants and street artists that line the pier as you jut out into the Gulf of Mexico. Clearwater Beach is world famous and has been recognized as one of the best beaches and has been recently named Florida’s Best Beach Town. Come for the sun and stay for the fun.
10. Rome, Italy
It’s ancient history and cobblestone lined streets is enough to give any history buff the ride of their life. The Colosseum. The Pantheon, The Arch of Titus and the Ancient Roman Forum are all awe-inspiring and truly amazing. Although hotel prices can get a little steep during summer, look for budget friendly hotels here. To avoid a majority of the crowds, try to travel in early Fall when the temperatures cool down a little and a lot of the school groups stop traveling.
Photos property of Stephanee Bridges
