It is with the arrival of the summer season that individuals are compelled to go beyond the everyday and venture into the unknown. However, top attraction sites may be congested and overpriced mainly during the holiday seasons. Fear not, intrepid traveler! This year, it is high time to leave the beaten track behind and aim at these untouched treasures – a perfect destination for an unforgettable summer.
1. Puducherry, India: Rich in French colonial atmosphere, Puducherry or Pondicherry as it is better known is a perfect blend of Indian and French. Walking through beautiful Georgian architecture, tasting Franco-Tamil cuisine and taking a siesta by the sea on soft sandy and unspoiled beaches facing the Bay of Bengal. History lovers should visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram, the spiritual center founded by the Indian philosopher Sri Aurobindo.
2. Hoi An, Vietnam: Exchange the intensity of shopping malls for the quietness of Hoi An, an ancient town with modest buildings and a slow pace. Go on a scenic boat trip along the Thu Bon River, marvel at the picturesque Japanese Covered Bridge, and learn more about the town’s history at the Hoi An Museum. At night, immerse yourself in the beauty and romance of the Hoi An Lantern Festival that lights up the entire town. Food lovers will have a great chance to enjoy the town’s street food focusing on such delights as freshly made rice cakes or noodle soup.
3. Lofoten Islands, Norway: Looking for an adrenaline rush? The optimal place to visit in the winter is the Lofoten Islands. It also has towering mountains that rise from the azure waters of the fjords and make it one of the most beautiful places on earth. You might rent a kayak to navigate along the shore and discover the islands, go on a wildlife tour to watch whales and orcas, or just walk on the trails surrounded by stunning views. During the summer, the islands experience the midnight sun which is when the sun rises and sets but does not disappear from the sky as most people may think, painting the sky in lighter shades.
4. Bryce Canyon National Park, USA: Get away from the baking hot climate of the Southwestern region of America at Bryce Canyon National Park. Featuring striking hoodoos – Formation of tall, thin rock spires, the park is replete with scenic views and a variety of trails for hiking. Hike to amazing overlooks such as Bryce Amphitheater and Inspiration Point or take a star gazing trip to see why the park is famous for its night lights. It has an even higher altitude than other parks and that is why it has a relatively cooler summer climate, ideal for escaping the heat.
5. Slovenia: Despite being relatively unknown compared to other European countries, Slovenia should be on your list of places to go in the summer. The Julian Alps is a paradise for tourists who are fond of hiking or biking. Visit the fascinating Škocjan Caves, a World Heritage site, or go for a swim in the beautiful glacial lake, surrounded by the Alpine mountains and a small church on an island. Slovenia is also a good place for a food lover because the country’s cuisine is Central European. Taste the flavors of thick stews, cured meats, and pastries, and accompany them with a glass of local wine.
6. The Azores, Portugal: This group of islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean is a true paradise for anyone interested in the works of nature. Active geothermal areas, rich tropical forests, and giant volcano craters make your summer vacation rather unique. Swim with whales in the ocean, discover the unique volcanic landscape of Sete Cidades National Park or lie on the black sand beaches in the Azores. These islands are famous for their constant mild climate which makes them perfect to visit during summer for people who do not want to experience very hot or very cold climates.
7. Raja Ampat, Indonesia: It is known that many islands in Indonesia offer beautiful and picturesque beaches and Raja Ampat is no exception. This is an interesting place for divers and snorkelers as it is home to a large population of fish in its coral gardens. Discover the secluded bays and caves, paddle through the mangrove swamps, or just lie on the clean sandy shores and tan. There is also an interesting culture of the Papuan people in Raja Ampat that just enriches the summer holiday experience even more.
8. Gubbio, Italy: Gubbio is yet another fine example of a medieval Italian hill town located in the region of Umbria. Stroll through winding alleyways of old townhouses with red-tiled roofs, visit the majestic Gubbio Palace, and walk up to Mount Ingino for a great view. Also, do not miss a visit to this area without participating in the Palio della Balestrieri Competition held in May where actors dressed in period costumes engage themselves in a crossbow shooting event. Food lovers should not miss out on the pleasures that can be enjoyed in Gubbio including the famous truffle, cheese and cured meat.
9. Banff National Park, Canada: Looking for an adventure vacation that features an incredible landscape? Banff National Park should be on your list. This Unesco World Heritage Site has majestic mountains, crystal clear waters of the lakes, and thick forests that make your summer holidays unforgettable. Do some hiking or cycling on the paths or go boating on Lake Louise or take a cable car to the top of Sulphur Mountain for great views. After sundown, sit around the campfire, and watch your breath puff out in front of you because of the lack of artificial light pollution. From a fanatical outdoorsman seeking thrills, perhaps in white-water rafting, to a family in search of a place to unwind in the lap of nature, there’s something for everyone in Banff National Park.
So ignore the hustle and bustle and uncover these secret destinations! From the beauty of French-Indian culture in Puducherry to the ethereal landscapes of the Lofoten Islands, these lesser-known summer destinations are worth planning a future trip around. It’s time to unpack your luggage and take your adventurous spirit on the summer vacation of a lifetime!
