Woman with pink flip flops hanging out of a car.

5 Trending Summer Vacations You Can’t Miss

Have you booked your summer trip yet? If not, don’t panic. We’ve rounded up brag-worthy summer vacation destinations that will leave your coworkers jealous when you return to the office. So, get your suitcase out, load it up with your favorite summer attire, and prepare for a trip you won’t forget.

1. Vietnam

Man carrying rice in a field.
Photo Credit: Tong2530 via Adobe Stock.

The Southeast Asian country of Vietnam is known for picturesque terraced rice fields cascading down mountains. Several indigenous tribes inhabit many of Vietnam’s rice fields, especially in the north. Vietnam also has a stunning coastline that you can cruise through.

Why Is Summer a Good Time to Visit Vietnam?

Rice terrace in Vietnam.
Courtesy of InsideAsia Tours.

Summer is an excellent time to visit Vietnam because the rice plants in the northern part of the country are lush with a brilliant green or yellow-gold color. Visiting in early summer is also when there are the fewest international tourists.

A New Way to Experience Vietnam

A boat on the bay of Vietnam.
Photo Credit: Efired via Depositphotos.

InsideAsia Tours has launched a new itinerary designed for summer travelers wanting to go off the beaten path. Tourists will have the chance to visit the rice fields and indigenous communities in Pu Luong. The itinerary also includes an overnight cruise in Lan Ha Bay, which is less touristy than the famous Halong Bay. Be prepared to arrive ready to explore Vietnam via three guided treks and a Mekong Delta homestay.

2. The Galapagos Islands

Father and sun taking a photo of a cactus on Galapagos Islands.
Photo Credit: Shalamov via Depositphotos.

The Galapagos Islands sit approximately 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador. The islands became famous because of Charles Darwin, inspiring his theory of evolution. Today, tourists can enjoy land or cruise-based island-hopping packages to see unique wildlife and observe how locals live.

Why Is Summer a Good Time to Visit the Galapagos Islands?

Two blue-footed boobies walking.
Photo Credit: Shalamov via Depositphotos.

Although there’s a unique migration, mating, or child-rearing season nearly every month in the Galapagos, July is an especially great time to visit. The Humboldt Current passes through the Galapagos Islands from the south, bringing in cold water rich in marine life. It makes for excellent snorkeling and diving. Comfortable temperatures in July also equate to great hiking weather on the islands.

The Galapagos Your Way

Two sea lions sleeping.
Photo Credit: Shalamov via Depositphotos.

The award-winning Extraordinary Journeys is a tour operator that helps its clients craft unique Galapagos itineraries to fit their interests. Tourists keen on sustainability will appreciate the eco-friendly Pikaia Lodge on Santa Cruz Island. Santa Cruz is the most popular island for people basing themselves on land, for it has a cute downtown area and many activities to keep visitors busy.

3. South Korea

Two South Korean girls in traditional dresses.
Photo Credit: Anek via Adobe Stock.

Travelers-to-be who enjoy exploring large cities, beaches, and sightseeing should put South Korea as a contender for their summer travel plans. The food, culture, and sights in South Korea are unlike anything you’ll encounter in other parts of the world.

Why Is Summer a Good Time to Visit South Korea?

The South Korean coastline.
Photo Credit: Depositphotos.

Summer is one of the best times to visit South Korea because, like the U.S., South Korea is located in the Northern Hemisphere. So, you’ll get to enjoy warm weather. Traveling in June will give you a higher chance of rain-free days than visiting later in summer.

Exploring As a Family

South Korean marching band.
Photo Credit: Im_source via Depositphotos.

InsideAsia Tours recently launched a new itinerary, the South Korea Family Adventure package. This tour takes families to the cities of Seoul and Busan, along with laid-back Jeju Island. The itinerary is designed to keep the tour engaging for children, a welcome relief for vacationing parents.

4. The Coral Triangle

An island in the Coral Triangle.
Photo courtesy of Celestia Yacht.

The Coral Triangle is a region of the Pacific Ocean that Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Timor Leste, and the Solomon Islands call home. Its nearly 600 species of coral make it an excellent region for snorkeling and diving.

Why Is Summer a Good Time to Visit the Coral Triangle?

An island in the Coral Triangle.
Photo courtesy of Celestia Yacht.

Fewer tourists visit the Coral Triangle during North America’s summer months. The water visibility is relatively poorer for snorkeling or diving, but casual snorkelers and divers are often thrilled by the diversity of marine life they see. The water is a bath-like temperature, and tourists can take advantage of the area’s plethora of above-ground activities.

A New Way to Explore the Coral Triangle

Celestia Yacht on the water.
Photo courtesy of Celestia Yacht.

The Indonesian Celestia Yacht launched its private charter itineraries in June 2023. Guests lucky enough to book a three to 14-night cruise will receive an authentic experience sailing around Indonesia’s archipelago. Activities include private island-hopping, kayaking, birdwatching, snorkeling, diving, private beach dinners, meditative yoga, nature hikes, and more.

5. Zambia

A safari boat tour with elephant sighting.
Photo courtesy of Zambezi Grande.

If you’ve always dreamed of taking an African safari tour, this summer is your chance. Zambia is one of the best places to spot wildlife in the African countryside, which you can do via land and boat.

Why Is Summer a Good Time to Visit Zambia?

Red birds flying in Zambia.
Photo courtesy of Zambezi Grande.

The North American summer is a good time to visit Zambia because it corresponds with the dry season. August is an especially great time to visit, as the grass is the shortest and driest, making it easier to spot wildlife. White-fronted and carmine bee-eaters also nest along the river in August.

The Best of Both Worlds

A balcony at Zambezi Grande at sunset.
Photo courtesy of Zambezi Grande.

The Zambezi Grande enjoys a privileged location on the banks of the Zambezi River. The 5-star sanctuary offers guests the opportunity to bird watch from the comfort of the hotel premises. Meanwhile, safari explorations at the Zambezi National Park are a short ride away.

Best Debit Card to Use Abroad (No Fees!)

Man with empty pockets.
Photo Credit: Deagreez via Adobe Stock.

Many Americans are missing out on the easy trick to landing free ATM withdrawals in over 200 countries. Are you one of them? Domestic travelers in the U.S. can save hundreds of dollars on ATM fees too.

21 Travel Bucket List Ideas for Retirees

Older couple in a Corvette.
Photo Credit: DisobeyArt via Adobe Stock.

Stay young at heart by exploring the world with these 21 must-see destinations during retirement. Options for active and low-impact travelers.

The Best Time to Visit Vietnam’s Rice Fields

A house in the Sapa rice fields.
Photo Credit: Empty_vectorist via DepositPhotos.

Whether you want to visit Sapa or go off the beaten path to see other rice fields in Vietnam, this guide is a must so that you know what to expect with the weather and rice growing seasons.

17 Bloggers That Quit Their Jobs to Travel

Man in African desert.
Photo Credit: Davide Angelini via Adobe Stock.

Do you dream about quitting your job to travel the world? Read the raw and heartwarming stories of travel bloggers who were in your shoes.

32 Books for Wanderlust

An open book in a road.
Photo Credit: Singkamc via Adobe Stock.

Treat yourself to armchair travel or get motivated to visit a new destination with these must-reads.

This article was produced and syndicated by A Piece of Travel.

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