If you want to get out of town this summer but want to take the road less traveled, then here is a list the Tribe has rounded up of a few summer vacation destinations that are off the beaten path! From Nicaragua and Samoa to Nova Scotia and Iceland, we have written down each place on our summer-travel bucket list.
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1. Jericoacoara Beach, Jericoacoara, Brazil
At the tip of Jericoacoara National park lies Jericoacoara Beach. Jeri, as it is better known, was declared a National Park in 2002, which has kept the town natural and peaceful. Streetlights are forbidden on this secluded sandy oasis and life runs at a slower pace, which makes this one of the best travel destinations in our book. It is a prime location for all the windsurfers and kite surfers, but it is also a place of ultimate relaxation. On the top of “Sunset Dune” watching the sun’s ascent and descent is a daily ritual. Seclusion does not mean primitive here on Jeri Beach; visitors have access to any amenity they may need.
2. Culebra, Puerto Rico
Located 17 miles east of Puerto Rico’s mainland, Culebra is an island boasting nature reserve with many nearly deserted beaches. The beaches on the island can accommodate the adventurous travelers or those who just want to relax on the white sand. Culebra is home to one of the top 10 most beautiful beaches in the world, Flamenco Beach. Travelers can stay on the island in a small boutique mini-resort, but there are many options for accommodations back on the mainland.
3. Placencia, Belize
The Placencia Peninsula is an 18-mile long narrow stretch of land in southern Belize. It offers 16 miles of tranquil beaches along with a host of other activities such as hiking, kayaking, deep sea fishing, snorkeling and exploring Mayan ruins. Also, guided tours to the first Jaguar Reserve are available. Visitors can choose from an array of island accommodations that are large or even small like a private island.
4. Samoa
Considered the heart of Polynesia, Samoa is located half way between Hawaii and New Zealand in the South Pacific Ocean. Samoa’s 3,000 year-old way of life gives its visitors a distinct experience. The ten islands offer a wide range of different environments and different versions of paradise. White sandy beaches, tropical rainforests, and rugged volcanic mountain peaks are just a few examples of Samoa’s picturesque landscapes. (How many travel destinations can say they offer such a wide variety of beauty?) Samoa’s long list of attractions is all connected to the natural beauty of the islands. Accommodations in Samoa range from luxury resorts to traditional Samoan beach fales.
5. Cape Breton, Nova Scotia
Perhaps white beaches and turquoise water are not on the checklist for your next vacation, but maybe a different kind of beauty. Cape Breton is on the northeastern tip of Nova Scotia, on the east coast of Canada. The island is full of Gaelic, Aboriginal and Acadian cultures, not to mention the amazing land and seascapes. There is no shortage of outdoor adventure, rich history and colorful culture in Cape Breton. Visitors are encouraged to explore the roads or trails less traveled and experience the area the way only locals know. We never considered Nova Scotia as one of our travel destinations of choice, but now it’s at the top!
6. Nicaragua
A trip to Nicaragua will be a welcome retreat from the more touristy travel destinations in Central American. There are many places to visit and things to do in Nicaragua. Leon and Grenada are perfect for anyone who loves architecture and history. There are also several day trips that can be taken from these two cities. Excursions can be taken to hike one of the many volcanoes or to admire one of Nicaragua’s beautiful untouched lakes. For the wildlife enthusiasts, Nicaragua has 78 national parks. Since most of Nicaragua is still untouched by man, ecotourism is becoming a popular and unique activity.
7.Lord Howe Island, Australia
This is one of the cleanest places on earth! Lord Howe Island has been kept mostly undisturbed to keep its varied natural landscape in pristine shape. Only 400 tourists are allowed on the island at a time and bicycles are the main transportation. Home to some of Australia’s best snorkeling and scuba diving, LHI is also Australia’s premier bird watching destination. Hike Mt. Gower or hand feed fish on Ned’s Beach. LHI is truly a unique destination with species of plants, animals, and marine life you will only find on this island. This is one of the travel destinations that is top on our bucket list.
8. Merida, Mexico
The capital and largest city in the Yucatan state of Mexico is definitely on our list of summer vacations. Also called “La Cuidad Blanca”, or The White City, Merida was built on the site of the ancient Mayan city T’ho. It was the center of Mayan culture and activity until the Spanish arrived and destroyed the city’s five main pyramids to use in the construction of Merida’s important buildings. Merida is home to Mexico’s second largest historic center and the oldest Cathedral in North America. The rich culture provides visitors with a unique colonial experience that is completely opposite of the crowded Cancun atmosphere. Taste classic Yucatecan cuisine, visit museums, and explore ancient Mayan ruins all in one day.
9. Iceland
Iceland may not come to mind when you think of summer travel destinations, but here is why it should. Summer time in Iceland means long days and temperatures in the 50’s, which is actually perfect weather for Iceland. Even at peak tourist season, Iceland isn’t too crowded, and it is perfect for the novice or seasoned photographer. Southern Iceland is home to some of the country’s most popular tourist attractions while the northern region has the second largest urban area, Akureyri. The Highlands – the untouched wilderness of Iceland’s interior – can now be explored by foot or 4X4 vehicles in the summer months. Culture, history, and natural beauty can be expected on a trip to Iceland.
10. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is made up of the twin cities Buda, which is on the West side of the river Danube, and Pest on the East side. Buda is considered the calmer side while Pest is the more lively side of the city. The amazing architecture of the city has garnered the nickname “The Paris of the East” because of the Roman ruins, contemporary postmodern designs, and major works commissioned in 1896 to mark the millennium of the arrival of the Magyars in Hungary. Soak in relaxing mineral water that is sourced from over 100 thermal springs surrounding the city in Budapest’s many bathhouses still operating today. Don’t miss the Buda Castle, built in 1265, or the Great Synagogue, one of the world’s largest Jewish houses of worship. Budapest also has a modern nightlife for the younger travelers. You may even find DJ’s dressed in wild jumpsuits.
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