Say goodbye to summer staycations. This short list of luxury excursions will certainly wet the palate of the adventure-seeker who might be thinking ahead. Perhaps the tax man was kind this year, and spending some of that hard-earned cash might be in order for the summer of 2018.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
With a tropical climate, turquoise waters, and a wide selection of overwater bungalows, Bora Bora might be that luxury trip of a lifetime.
The peak season (July-September) keeps travelers safe from cyclone season, and immerses them in a paradise experienced only in dreams. Ideal for snorkeling, scuba diving, or just swimming amidst the starfish and minnows, Bora Bora offers a deep dive into luxury.
Sicily
Home to Europe’s largest active volcano (Mount Etna), Sicily is bubbling with activities that can make this summer the most luxurious and memorable ever. One such spot if the Valley of the Temples, a breathtaking sight where seven temples dating back to the 5th century stand majestically on a ridge which, at night, gets illuminated by floodlights.
Another way to make your summer intoxicating is to visit the Sicilian wineries on the eastern region of the island. A walk through the vineyards in view of Mount Etna will be worth all the potential danger.
Czech Republic
A visit to the Czech Republic will not leave the traveler at a loss for an amazing castle. Here, one can visit two thousand castles, chateaux and fortresses. Bitov Castle, for instance, sits proudly among rivers, forests and hillsides, and owns a dark history; visitors can visit the dungeon and torture devices – enough said. Prague, the capital, is a prime destination for those who love old world charm, gorgeous architecture and cultural celebrations.
Old Town Square, with its cathedrals and market places transports any tourist back in time to a simpler and statelier time.
Playa Ocotol, Costa Rica
Swimming, snorkeling or just lying in the sun, visitors to Playa Ocotol will never want to depart. White sand beaches, palm trees and exotic birds makes this spot perfect for bragging rights on social media. Playa del Coco offers travelers a wide selection of restaurants, bars, discos, casinos and other nightlife experiences.
Adjoining Playa Coco is Playa Conchal, an exotic beach strewn with tiny, crushed seashells and deep blue water.
Mykonos, Greece
Named after the grandson of Apollo, and, as legend has it, formed from the petrified bodies of giants killed by Hercules, Mykonos remains one of the most popular destinations for tourists looking for the instant WOW factor. The striking contrasts of blue sky, whitewash edifices, blue architectural trim and deeply tanned skin make for selfie heaven as well as non-technological joy.
Surfing and sailing is as common as lounging and lazing, all topped off with tasty Greek food and pastries and cool, refreshing beverages. In fact, there are over a hundred restaurants, forty-four cafes and thirty-six taverns on the island.
Kuala Lampur, Malaysia
How close can one come to deadly aquatic animals without actually being in danger? The answer exists at Aquaria at the Kuala Lampur Convention Center where tourists can walk through a 60,000 gallon oceanarium showcasing 5000 creatures found in Malaysia. The 90 meter transparent tunnel gives the feeling of being one with the fishes. Sticking to the nature theme, travelers to Kuala Lampur can see over 200 bird species at Bird Park, including the bright plumage of the hornbill and bird of paradise. The National Zoo houses over 500 animal species, including the coveted tiger, lion and orangutan.
Say goodbye to summer staycations
Travel can be seen as the birthright of every person on earth. The distance one travels is irrelevant; it’s all about how one perceives the experience.
