6 top destinations you can visit this summer
Summer really is the best time of the year for people to explore the most sensational tourist places in the world. When planning a summer holiday, the options are endless, but it is important to take care when choosing your unique summer destination. Fortunately, we now live in a very accessible world, allowing us the opportunity to visit distant majestic treasures. The only questions is now…where do you go? We all have our own specific styles and criteria, which can leave us a little overwhelmed when choosing the ideal trip. I’ve taken some time and researched 6 top destinations you can visit this summer, and you’ll be quite surprised with what I’ve found….
Santa Barbara, USA
Santa Barbara, a Californian coastal city in the USA, situated on a south-facing section of coastline is an underrated destination, in my opinion. What made Santa Barbara so enjoyable for me, was the traditional mediterranean-style architecture with Spanish touches. I was captivated not only by the city’s vintage charm, but it’s beautifully obsolete atmosphere. It’s not the first destination that pops into people’s head when branstorming where to go, but with the city’s world renowened food and wine scene, long sandy beaches, hiking trails and art culture, this unique city beckons. Boasting stunning colonial buildings with a picturesque mountain range backdrop, you’ll often feel like you’ve been transported to another world when you visit.
Zagreb, Croatia
Summer is one of the busiest seasons in Croatia, drawing visitors in from all over the world. We often think of the crystal clear waters, beautiful waterfalls and the stunning beaches that Croatia has to offer, but there’s so much more than that. Zagreb, the Capital and largest city in Croatia, located in the Northwest of the country, is a world away from the shimmering aquamarine Adriatic Sea that we’re all accustomed to. A city that’s known for it’s diverse community, intriguing museums, quaint cafes, and lively entertainmment events, will surely set your inspiration soaring. ‘The City with a Heart’ can be summed up in so many words, being one of the most underrated and vibrant cities to visit. In a nut shell, there’s so much to explore within Zagreb’s rich history, pleasurable café-culture and lively cultural scene.
Nova Scotia, Canada
With an extensive coastline of 8,200 miles, Nova Scotia will bring to your front door the most beautiful beaches, large rugged cliffs, elegant vineyards and pretty fishing villages. This hidden gem is one of 10 provinces and three territories of Canada, located on the East Coast and it is almost completely surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. If you’re the type that loves to feel immersed in nature, then Nova Scotias stunning landscapes will take you to great heights. Summer is not only one of the best times to go whale watching, but this season also brings lively festivals across the province, while outdoor activities hit full throttle.
Mackinac Island, Michigan, USA
Fancy taking a step back in time? Mackinac Island is a timeless island, which sits in Lake Huron, between Michigan’s Upper and Lower peninsula. Rich in history, Mackinac Island retains all of it’s traditional character through Victorian founding. Unbelievably, cars have been prohibited on Mackinac Island since 1896 after horseless carriages were apparently scaring the carriage horses. You’ll find the absense of automobiles creates a more contemplative and relaxed way of life for the islanders, and better yet, makes for the ideal vacation spot. There’s such a wide range of wide outdoor island activities to get involved in on the island, including kayaking, snorkeling, biking and hiking. Another great tourist spot is the Mackinac Island state park, which is a landscape characterised by high limestone bluffs, glorious sweeping vistas of sparkling water and breathtaking forests – this place has to be on the bucket list!
InterLaken, Switzerland
Nestled between glacier-fed lakes, Interlaken is a Swiss town in the ernese Oberland, between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. This destination is most certainly one of mother natures most beautiful masterpieces, offering so much panoramic beauty for all. High above Interlaken stands Harder Kulm, a viewpoint with epic views of the mountains & valleys of the Berner Oberland region, setting the scene for a wealth of tourist hiking experiences. Seen as hugely popular all year round, Interlaken is actually more of a summer resort, peaking as the ideal season for all the water sports and adrenaline activities. Interlaken is top of my bucket list for places to go in future.
Valletta, Malta
On the lookout for somewhere more historical? Look no further… Valletta is a fortified historical city in Malta, located on a hilly peninsula between two of the finest natural harbours in the Mediterranean. Offering both a striking balance between ancient city and modern development, Valletta is a distinguished city with a legendary past. Equally appealing, is Valletta’s array of cultural attractions, including St John’s Cathedral, Valletta Waterfront, Manoel Theatre, Blue Lagoon, National Museum of Archaeology and so much more… From a cultural history perspective, there is truly something here for everyone.