Usually, when talking about 4 destinations for a perfect summer vacation, we’d think about dreamy European destinations like Italy’s laid-back island, Sardinia, scenic Capri, or the Mediterranean hotspot, Mallorca. Given the current travel restrictions, we looked beyond our annual summer vacation spots and found four gems just below our noses. Each of these destinations has something to offer in the summertime, be it more affordable prices, uncrowded beaches, summer festivals, or farmers’ markets, just to name a few. There is something to be said for visiting these destinations in their offseason – it gives the visitors a better sense of the heart of the region, what it really looks like for the locals when the tourists are gone – and a chance to see the sights without being smushed like a can of sardines (shoot, don’t get us thinking about the Mediterranean again. We’ll get back there one day – soon). But, for today, let’s find the silver lining in the travel restrictions – by seeking out the best places we can travel to and the best things to do while we’re there.
What the summer offers: There is never a wrong time to visit Cabo if you’re looking for a luxury vacation in the sun, but if you’re a scuba diver, this is the place to explore in the summer. The diving season here runs from July until October for its spectacular visibility and abundance of marine life. While diving in the Sea of Cortez, expect to see colorful marine life covered in macro life, plenty of sea lions, whale sharks, manta rays, and even hammerheads!
A clifftop retreat with truly spectacular views. It’s perched high above the ocean, offers a very Spanish-colonial vibe, an infinity pool, and private terraces to enjoy. What truly makes this property though, is the dedicated staff – vacationing here brings the 5-star, all-inclusive resort Mexico is known for, into the privacy of your own home. It’s a two-minute drive away from the One&Only golf course and about a 5-minute walk down the steps to the beach – but most guests here stay put and allow the massage treatments, award-winning menus, and panoramic vistas to make their holiday dreams come true.
What the summer offers: Although families flock to the DR in the summer to enjoy the sun and make the most out of summer holidays, there are still many quiet beaches in more remote areas of the island, incredible scuba diving, and snorkeling opportunities, horseback riding, spas, The Teeth of the Dog golf course, and even a brand new outdoor shooting center for an authentic in-the-wild shooting experience – considered to be one of the best in the world.
Okay, we know it’s big, like really big, like 12 bedroom estate big – but it’s a villa that has all it all. So bring your whole family and have that Christmas celebration we weren’t able to have back in December and enjoy the epitome of vacationing in luxury. With two pools, a private ocean access pathway, a private gym, and numerous outdoor living spaces, this villa promises a vacation you won’t forget.
What the summer offers: This charming inlet of Mexico’s Riviera Maya offers something special, year-round. It offers a glimpse into what Mexico looked like 20 years ago. Without the crowds and all-inclusive resorts. And it’s just 15 km north of the colorful streets of Tulum and minutes away from the jaw-dropping cenotes (crystalline freshwater pools hidden in the jungle).
You’ll be graced with ocean views as soon as you enter this 6-bedroom, beachfront beauty. The natural wood interiors create an atmosphere full of peace. The villa owner put her heart and soul and even her own artwork into the construction of this stunning abode. The design allows for separate and detached spaces in order to enjoy privacy and quiet time when needed. The outdoor dining table, steps from the shore, makes each meal an incredible experience. Enjoy the warm waters of the Caribbean sea with Mesoamerican Reef nearby. The reef is only about a mile (1.6km) from shore and you can easily paddle, kayak, or swim out there to snorkel.
What the summer offers: Incredible rates, 8 hours of sunshine, warm sea temperatures, and awesome festivals. The summer in Jamaica is synonymous with Reggae Fest – which this year will be virtual. Still, what better way to enjoy the virtual festival than on the patio of your private villa, with the waves crashing in the distance, in beautiful Jamaica? If reggae isn’t your thing, a visit to the island of rum punch (and seriously good coffee) should still be on your list – besides the world-renowned beaches, the lush jungles are a sight to be seen. Few islands offer as many flowing rivers, mountain ranges, and natural freshwater pools – which provide a lovely respite from the hot summer months.
This home just 15 minutes away from Montego Bay’s main strip has four bedrooms with ocean views, vaulted ceilings, and large terraces where you can enjoy the lovely ocean breeze. The pictures don’t do this home justice – mainly because they miss showing off the second-to-none staff here that our guests truly rave about.
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