We’re always dreaming of Summer. And to be honest, it’s always easy to slip into daydreams of beach getaways, European cities and more when maybe the snow hasn’t fully thawed off the ground. Or, when Spring showers haven’t fully been replaced by May flowers. Either way, it never hurts to start planning your Summer adventures. Here are our top 5 places to travel this Summer, both near and far.
Barcelona & Ibiza
All of Europe becomes a viable destination during the summer months. But, there’s something about Spain that makes it feel like the carefree attitude of the season is personified. Barcelona has the cobblestone streets, sidewalk cafes and old-world architecture that will make all your European fantasies come to life. World renowned cuisine, dancing and culture is all in front of you.
In addition, the close proximity to Ibiza lends way to some infamous island partying. Yachts, DJ’s and bikinis included. Don’t forget the sunscreen.
Greek Islands
Another great partying destination, Greece offers an experience unlike anything else. But, there is so much more to experience than just 6am ragers on the island of Mykonos. The stunning Mediterranean waters against the famous white, blue-domed cathedrals is a post card come to life. And, also worth booking a trip for.
Santorini and Mykonos are the most popular islands, but there are several other groups of islands to check out such as Crete, The Ionian islands and the Saronic Gulf. The winding, cobbled alleyways with Aegean Sea views as backdrop are perfect scene to get lost, or found by that cute local in.
Baja California, Mexico
The Mexican peninsula along the Pacific is an underrated gem of a destination with close proximity to the U.S. Cabo San Lucas is by far the most popular destination for its array of swanky all-inclusive resorts, beachside bars and the famed arch. For partying that will be your go-to this Summer.
For a more bohemian beach experience head to La Paz which boasts excellent surfing and dining with a more off-the-beaten path feel. Todos Santos is another seaside town which has more of a Tulum vibe with a vibrant art scene. Vogue even described their boutique hotels as an, “aesthete’s wet dream” Don’t have a lot of vacation days? Rosarito has food, drink, surf and hiking all only 10 miles south of the California border.
Coconino County, Arizona
Scottsdale, Phoenix and Tempe may be the better-known Arizona destinations due to its culinary prowess, universities and surprisingly impressive nightlife scene. In fact, Scottsdale is home to 3 of the 10 most profitable nightclubs in the U.S. But, it’s Summer and you don’t want to have to fight to stay alive whilst drinking vodka sodas on a patio at dinner while temperatures still hover around 110 degrees.
So, how exactly do Arizonan’s survive in the Summer? They head North my friend. Coconino County houses some of Arizona’s most impressive landscapes such as the red rocks of Sedona, the forests of Flagstaff and of course THE GRAND CANYON! You and your girls can hike, swim and raft at one of those natural wonders. Or, just grab a cabin in the trees for your own version of “glamping.”
Montauk, New York
Get in the New York state of mind and head to the Hamptons. Or, Montauk. While the swankiness of the Hamptons is alive and well, the younger set is going to Montauk. The New Yorkers grind all week to escape the city and party it up on the weekends. It’s that typical “work hard, play hard mentality.”
But you don’t need to be a New Yorker to get in on the fun. Get a group and rent a summer house. Fill your weekend with boozy brunches, beachside bonfires, crisp white attire and a lot of rose.