Tired of hearing about the same places to visit for summer vacay? Find the ideal city for your seasonal retreat by ditching your list of travel hotspots and re-inventing your dream summer getaway. Check out these lesser-traveled locations around the globe that have everything you could desire in a sizzling summer destination, minus the overcrowding.
Semuc Champey, Guatemala
Papohaku Beach, Hawaii
On the sparsely populated Hawaiian island of Molokai, you’ll probably be one of a few, if not the only beachgoer on Papohaku Beach, a secluded 3-mile stretch of the white sand. Waves crashing ashore serenade all in earshot with soothing sounds, while the distinctive lava rocks the islands are known for decorate partial strips of the coastline. Stroll the shore, search for highly desired Hawaiian sunrise seashells or kick back and do nothing in this peaceful, unspoiled location.
Punakha, Bhutan
As if the locally sourced, organically grown food and carbon-negative status of Bhutan aren’t enough to inspire a visit, then maybe the glorious Punakha Dzong will finalize the feeling. Sitting at the convergence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu Rivers, Punakha Dzong contains temples and sacred buildings in marvelous fortress-style architecture, surrounded by exquisite landscaping and lush mountainsides. Stretching across the Po Chhu River, the Punakha Suspension Bridge, embellished by colorful prayer flags, connects the Dzong to nearby villages, expanding on the potential for an enriching summer experience away.
Manzanillo, Mexico
Unlike cities known for their party scene, such as Cancún, Mazanillo, Mexico, is a much more low-key place. In this mesmerizing port town, you can find the streets lined with vendors selling fresh produce and take water taxis along the canal. Calm waters and plenty of marlin call out to leisurely swimmers and fishers. Friendly residents, nearby resort facilities, and eateries overlooking the Pacific Ocean make this an ideal place to lay low while enjoying a luxurious summer vacation.
Koufonisia, Greece
Off the coast of Greece, accessible only by ferry, an isle trio called Koufonisia covertly awaits the crowd-fatigued traveler. Also called Koufonissi, these three islands consist of Pano Koufonisi, the most populated and convenient of the trio; Kato Koufonisi; and Keros, mostly uninhabited isles with exceptional beaches. A slow pace pervades this tranquil destination, inviting wanderers to cruise out on a boat, take day trips to sample each tiny isle, or stay ashore in the shade to sit in the stillness of summer.
St. Augustine, Florida
While everyone else heads to Miami this summer, take a detour to St. Augustine, Florida, a city with ample natural scenery and a deep history. Recognized as the first city in America, St. Augustine has a phenomenal beach for sunbathers and swimmers, but this place is also packed full of family-friendly things to do, such as visiting the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum or touring the extravagantly designed Flagler College, which was once the Ponce de Leon Hotel.
Kibuye, Rwanda
There is much for the inquisitive traveler to learn on a trip to Kibuye, Rwanda. Tucked in the western foothills of Rwanda, Kibuye sits on Lake Kivu, which contributes to the vast greenness of flora and fauna found throughout the area. Take a boat tour on the lake, go on safari, or learn about local heritage at the Bisesero Genocide Memorial Park, a significant historical landmark. Fresh fruits and vegetables can be purchased from street vendors, but many hotels have chefs ready to whip up something tasty and unique for vacationers.
