Summer is coming sooner than we realize, and no one wants to stay inside. However, Chicago gets boring so where else can summer be enjoyed to its fullest? Well, here are 5 of the best places to travel to to take in the summer and enjoy it to its fullest, ranging from places here in the U.S. to places in Europe!
1. Italy
First on the list is a costly, yet extravagant and wonderful place to visit: Italy. The warm weather, rich history, and mix of cultures will always keep you entertained. You can explore ancient cities like Rome, Naples, Milan, and Cerveteri on tours that show you all the hidden gems.
A must in Italy is enjoying fresh Italian food. One of the most popular restaurants in Palermo, Sicily is Biga Genio E Farina where they serve several different types of pizza and have vegan friendly options. Following a delicious meal, you can never go wrong with a relaxing day at the beach, and while Italy is known for its architecture, it is also well known for its gorgeous water. The white Marl terraced cliff in Sala Dei Turchi has a spectacular view of the Mediterranean sea. The blue water against the white stone and calming waves makes it the perfect place to swim alongside some family or friends.
2. Spain
Following Italy is another widely recognized place in Europe: Spain. It shines as a top summer destination for a number of reasons. The country has an abundance of diverse and stunning coastlines, like the lively beaches of Costa Brava, which offer something for every beach lover. The Mediterranean weather allows for long, sunny days perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Apart from the beaches and coastlines, Spain has many lively cities to visit. The top two, Barcelona and Madrid, allow for a vibrant culture and nightlife. Exploring historic sites is a must with many tour guides to direct you and teach you about historical landmarks. Along with historical sites is the energetic atmosphere of festivals and carnivals around the cities. The Spanish siesta culture also provides a relaxed pace to your day, allowing you to recharge for evening adventures. So, whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, Spain offers an unforgettable summer experience!
3. Hawaii
Next on the list is Hawaii. Hawaii is known to be a lively place at all times of year but especially in the summer because of the warm weather, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture. There are many options for entertainment in Hawaii. Whether you’re someone who enjoys hiking, swimming, or exploring, there’s something for everybody! Beaches in Laniki and Maui are widely known for their relaxing waters, which are perfect for snorkeling, swimming, or paddle boarding. Along with the many beaches in Hawaii, there are also many popular tourist attractions including Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, which offers volcanic eruption sightings, driving tours, road tours, a chain of craters, and hiking trails. The experience that can be lived in Hawaii is one to never forget, so go visit when the perfect time comes!
4. Florida Keys
Following Hawaii is Florida, specifically The Florida Keys. The Florida Keys is a go to spot in Florida when you need a getaway vacation in the summer. The famous clear blue water along with extraordinary wildlife sightings with an overall calming environment allows you to have the perfect vacation. You can also enjoy some of Florida’s seafood that comes fresh from the sea. There are also many activities that can be enjoyed at The Florida Keys, such as kayaking in the springs, riding some jet skis, and watching the sunset or sunrise everyday. The Florida Keys allows you to buy a ticket to go on a jet ski tour where you can ride with a friend for free. You get an incredible experience of discovering 23 miles of the Floridian coast like the Southernmost point and the Boca Chica Sandbar. The Florida Keys have never ending options of activities. It’s nearly impossible to get bored.
5. Puerto Rico
Finally, on the list we have Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico is much smaller, taking into account it is an island, but just like any other place on this list it has so much to offer. Its big and sunny beaches, tropical rain forests, local restaurants, and extraordinarily rich culture make you want to keep coming back for more. The most popular part of Puerto Rico is San Juan where you can get an authentic taste of Caribbean culture through food, museums, and tours.
You can also visit a popular historic museum called Casa Blanca. It housed the first Puerto Rican governor in 1521 and now shows 15-16th century artifacts. Flamenco Culebra Puerto Rico is a popular beach in Puerto Rico where you’ll be welcomed with clear blue water, conch shells, and a beautiful environment. If you decide to take a walk around Puerto Rico, you’ll see lots of small restaurants, not to mention the delicious food that they serve, making these restaurants worth a visit. Some of Puerto Rico’s most popular dishes are alcapurrias, arroz con gandules, mofongo, and pasteles. This combined with the environment and wonderful places to visit will make travelling to Puerto Rico worth your time and money.
Conclusion
Of course, there are many more places to visit in the world. Some of them may be as enjoyable or even more enjoyable than the ones on this list, but for the summer, these options are perfect. You should definitely consider visiting and enjoying each and every one of these places’ food, vibrant atmosphere, and, most importantly, their culture!