Summer is here and your vacation awaits! Read on to learn more about this years hot spots and the best activities to do at each location to make unforgettable memories.
Beach Hot Spots
Riviera Maya
Want to relax on white sand beaches surrounded by turquoise waters without the heavy pricetag? Then look no further than the Riviera Maya. With all-inclusive resorts, natural beauty, and rich history, this is the perfect spot for lazy beachgoers and adventurers alike.
Recommended activities:
- Riviera Maya Luxury Snorkeling Curise with Lunch and Drinks: swim and snorkel the Caribbean Sea on a half-day catamaran sailing adventure from Cancun Adventures. You’ll explore the Inah Reef, discovering coral formations and colorful fish, followed by a gourmet lunch and open bar.
- Tulum Express Riviera Maya: visit the Maya city of Tulumn and explore temples and pyramids. Need to cool off? Swim at Tulumn beach alongside the ruins.
- Five Cenotes Jungle Experience in the Riviera Maya: prefer the small group experience? Then try this tour of lower-traffic cenotes, natural freshwater sinkholes, in the Yucatán Peninsula.
- Frida Kahlo Museum: no trip to the Riviera Maya is complete without a trip to the Frida Kahlo Museum. Learn more about the artist, her life, and explore exquisite artwork along the way.
- ATV Xtreme and Zipline Adventure from Riviera Maya: for those who need an extra adrenaline burst, try ziplining, snorkeling, and ATV-riding. You’ll zoom down the jungle trails on an ATV to your zipline, following by a trip to the cenote, where you’ll swim in a fresh water sinkhole.
Turks and Caicos
Have you been to Mexico and you’re looking for more? Then try Turks and Caicos. These islands and southeast of the Bahamas and offer a high-end getaway with unmatched beaches.
Recommended activities:
- Grace Bay Beach: ranked one of the best beaches in the world, this pristine beach has won numerous awards and offers breathtaking scenery.
- Snorkel in Grace Bay: cruise aboard a spacious catamaran to the colorful reefs near Providenciales. Snorkel the reef, relax onboard with a light lunch, and enjoy the vantage point from the water.
- Mangrove Clear Kayak Tour: explore Mangrove Cay and discover diverse wildlife on this small group tour. You could see turtles, rays, and even small sharks.
- Parasail Grand Turk: take to the skies and parasail along the beautiful coastline.
- Horseback Riding Adventure: trot along the crystal-clear waters on horseback! This small group tour will offer personalized lessons and a chance to make incredible memories together.
Dominican Republic
With sunny skies year-round, all-inclusive resorts, and rich colonial history, who wouldn’t want to explore the Dominican Republic? This emerging wellness spot has lush jungles and mountain trails, making it the perfect spot for rejuvenation.
Top activities include:
- ATV & Buggy Adventure: drive through stunning landscapes, explore a cave, and swim through crystal-clear waters with this adventure. You’ll visit a local ranch to learn about traditional farming practices, enjoy the ocean waves at Playa Macao, and swim in an underground cave.
- Scuba Doo Underwater Scooter: explore the sea using an underwater scooter in Punta Cana. If you don’t know how to swim or don’t want to learn to scuba, simply don your helmet and explore the reef up close on this tour.
- Monkeyland and Plantation Safari: if wildlife is on your bucketlist, then this adventure is for you. Journey to the jungle and visit a local cacao plantation to learn about organic farming methods and then observe squirrel monkeys in a natural setting.
- Half Day Dominican Republic Cultural Tour: want to explore local? Then take this historical and cultural tour of the Dominican Market and Anamuya River.
- Punta Cana 3in1 Adventure: Los Haitises Park, Waterfall & Montaña: if you’re a nature lover like me, then this 3-in-1 tour is for you! You’ll explore UNESCO-protected Los Haitises National Park, swim beneath the Yanigua Waterfall, and take in the breathtaking views at Montaña Redonda.
European Getaways
Slovenia
Slovenia is the hidden gem of Europe. With epic natural wonders like Julian Alps, fairy-tale architecture, and world-class gastronomy, this should be on the top of everyone’s bucket lists. I know it’s on mine!
Top activities include:
- Whitewater Rafting on Soca River: get your adrenaline pumping on this thrilling rafting adventure on the Soca River. Great for all skill levels, you’ll experience the beauty of the Soca Valley in a way that cements your memories for years to come.
- Food & Wine Tour Ljubljana: explore the capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana, through your taste buds! You’ll learn Slovenian traditions at local eateries while tasting their foods and wines.
- Slovenia in One Day: Lake Bled, Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle: sometimes, the best way to explore is with one simple booking. In this tour, you’ll cross to Bled island on boat to visit Bled Castle. You’ll also venture the winding stairways of Predjama Castle and observe the amazing rock formations of Postojna Cave.
- Canyoning Bled Slovenia Triglav National Park Tour: take adventuring to the next level with the great outdoors of Triglav National Park. Rappell down waterfalls, jump into pools, and ride water slides in this small group tour that goes beyond the crowds of the national park.
- Ljubljana Boat Cruise and Walking Tour: can’t get enough of the Slovenia capital? Then take a guided walk and a cruise through the city by river. You’ll see the Baroque old town, Dragon Bridge, and more on this tour.
Greece
Ancient history, Mediterranean beaches, and island hopping? Say no more! This is why Greece is a premiere travel destination and is right for every traveler type. Visit Athens which offers a blend of ancient ruins where past meets present or Santorini where you can spend the day sailing or sipping volcanic wines with a view.
Top activities include:
- Athens Acropolis Museum and Parthenon: a trip to Athens isn’t complete without viewing the ancient ruines of the Acropolis. Don’t forget to stop by the Acropolis Museum that will give you a glimpse into the daily lives of the ancient Greeks.
- Greek Food Waking Tour from Athens: induldge your inner foodie by tasting the incredible food of Athens. From cafes to markets, you’ll explore the city’s culinary heritage with treats like donuts, cheeses, and wine.
- Santorini Classic Catamaran Cruise: experience the gorgeous coastline and volcanic islands of Santorini by boat. You can swim and snorkel at selected spots and enjoy a BBQ buffet with local wine.
- Tour Mykonos Like a Local: with so much to see, exploring Mykonos with a local offers up a unique perspective. Highlights include Agios loannis, the ‘Faros’ lighthouse, Telia, and more!
- Delos Tour from Mykonos: no trip to Greece is complete without a ferry to Delos. You’ll learn the history of temples, artifacts, and other classical treasures on this island tour.
Japan
Japan is an incredibly rewarding location that is easy to navigate and offers everything from incredible natural beauty to traditional cultural stopovers. To get the most out of this location, it’s recommended to visit Tokyo for it’s fast-paced city life, Hakone for its natural wellness, Kyoto for it’s culture, and Osaka for its gastronomy.
Top activities include:
- Tokyo Sumo Entertainment Show: take in the sumo culture with this show and dinner experience. You’ll watch wrestles perform classic movies while savoring a chicken hot pot dish.
- Mt Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko Bus Tour from Hakone: experience the beauty and rich history of the Fuji-Hakone region with a visit to Fujiyama Tower, Oishi Park, and Owakudani’s volcanic landscape from Hakone. Need transport from Tokyo instead? Try this Mt Fuji and Hakone tour by bus and bullet train.
- Kyoto Gion Hidden Gems & Geisha Culture Tour: explore the places most visitors miss in this tour that explores geisha life and the quiet backstreets of Gion. You’ll visit a 1,000 year-old shrine and some of the most photogenic locations in the area.
- Kyoto Must-See Spots & Nara Park: encounter the deer in Nara Park and explore the serene Bamboo Forest, Tenryu-ji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge, Arashiyama Rilakkuma Tea House, and Kimono Forest from Kyoto.
- Osaka Food Tour: try 15 delicious dishes and 3 drinks at 5 local eateries in Osaka. Featured on the hit Netflix series “Somebody Feed Phil” and winner of Viator’s 10th Best Experience in the Whole of Asia Award, this tour will have you sample everything from gyoza to takoyaki and more.
Off the Beaten Path
Faroe Islands
With endless daylight, stunning views, and mild weather, the Faroe Islands are the perfect vacation spot for those seeking adventure without the crowds. Summer is an excellent time for whale watching, hiking, and puffins!
Top activities include:
- Puffing Safari Boat Tour: if you want to avoid strenuous hiking, taking a boat tour along Vágar Island’s stunning coastline is perfect for viewing puffins. You’ll also see the majestic Drangarnir seastacks, Múlafossur waterfall, and the iconic Tindhólmur.
- Hike to Hvíthamar Vantage Point: spend some time on Eysturoy Island where you’ll take a walk to this vantage point for incredible views over fjords and mountains.
- Kayak in Vágur Suðuroy: get to know the beautiful island by renting a kayak. Adventuring alone? Rent a single kayak with all gear provided. Traveling with friends or family? Double kayaks are also available for rental.
- Explore Klaksvík: on the island of Borðoy, Klaksvík has lots to offer, from historic churches, Viking-era remains, and hiking trails. If you’re like me and enjoy learning more about the city, this self-guided tour lets you explore the city at your own pace. Don’t forget to take a short hike up the mountain Klakkur for a panoramic view!
- Explore Vágar Island: you’ll step off the plane at Vágar Airport, so make sure to have the Village of Bøur as your first stop. You can stroll the setllement towns and take in the sod-roofed houses. Up for a challenging hike? Then take the The Postman’s Trail from Múlafossur to Gásadalur that will bring you to an abandoned settlement and beautiful waterfall on the island.
Thailand
Thailand offers diverse scenery and cultural immersion depending on which region you visit. If you prefer the hustle and bustle of city streets, Bangkok is for you. Prefer romantic beachfronts? Then visit Phuket or the tropical island of Koh Samui.
Top activities include:
- Bangkok Railway and Floating Markets: a trip to Thailand isn’t complete without visiting it’s amazing markets. Take a trip to the Mae Klong Railway Market with its colorful vendors and uniqute charm before heading to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market where you’ll glide along tranquil canals in a traditional long-tail boat.
- Phi Phi Islands: a stop to this archipelago is a must when visiting Phuket. You can swim the coral reefs of the Pileah Lagoon, snorkel at Bamboo Island, and enjoy Monkey Beach.
- Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary: this conservation park is located in the Mae Tang Valley where elephants roam stress-free. Want to make a day of it? Take the linked tour that will take you to the Bua Thong Waterfalls, elephant sanctuary, and bamboo rafting.
- Grand Palace and Temples of Bankok: tour Bangkok’s most important landmarks andl earn about Thai culture, history, and spirituality. Must see sights include the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and Temple of Dawn.
- Kanchanaburi Watergalls and Bridge Over River Kwai: perfect for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike, Kanchanaburi has it all. Visit the JEATH Museum and learn about how World War II affected the area. Then explore the iconic Bridge Over the River Kwai before heading to Erawan National Park to bask in the magnificent Erawan Waterfall.
Poland
Everyone I meet who has been to Poland says it’s incredible. Every single one. I’m traveling there this summer and will be spending a week in the Tatra Mountains. I have a feeling I wont want to come back! Poland has so much to offer from it’s incredible natural beauty to it’s historic castles. It is also extremely affordable and less traveled than other European hot spots. The activities below center around southern Poland near Krakow.
Top activities include:
- Auschwitz-Birkenau Tour: a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this memorial and museum is the site of the concentration camp where over a million people died during World War II. Taking a guided tour is encouraged as it helps you learn about the unimaginable cruelty and loss of life that occured at these camps.
- Wieliczka Salt Mine: have you ever dreamed of venturing beneath a bustling city to an underground salt mine? Here’s your chance! This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Krakow that offers unique scenery with sculptures chapels, and an underground lake.
- Chochołów Baths: Zakopane offers incredible mountain scenery and relaxing hot springs. If you don’t plan on staying in Zakopane, many tours are offered that stop at Chochołów’s thermal pools that include funicular rides and cheese tastings. What more could you want?
- Tatra Mountains: In a little less than a month, I’ll be scaling the peaks of the Tatra Mountains in southern Poland. Part of the Carpathian mountains, these mountains border Slovakia and Poland, giving you the chance to hike two countries at once. Don’t forget to buy your park pass before you go! I highly recommend the Gubałówka hike that brings you to the top of Gubałówka, one of the main attractions of Zakopane.
- Explore Krakow: visit Krakow’s UNESCO’s Old Town and immerse yourself in the rich history of the area. Make sure to stop by the Royal Route, Wawel Castle, St. Mary’s Basilica, and the historic Cloth Hall.
Planning Your Trip
With so many options, it’s hard to know which spot is right for you and what hotel suits your needs. That’s where I come in to help. I’ve either been to or plan on traveling to each location on this page so I’ve already done the research for you! Just fill out my Inquiry Form and I’ll help you plan the perfect vacation.
Still hesitant? Check out my Fora Advisor Profile or email me at megan.farve@fora.travel to learn more about my services.
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