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Summer is around the corner, and there is no better break from the heat than planning the perfect summer escape. Summer breaks bring a sense of nostalgia for both parents and children. It is the perfect time to create core childhood memories. Relive the good old days as you travel to new destinations while the young ones learn about new cultures and countries. Travelling with family helps strengthen bonds and allows children to widen their understanding of different cultures, cuisines and customs. Below is an interesting read on summer break vacation to top 10 destinations for the ultimate escape.
Summer Break Vacation Escapes – Top 10
Oman
On the southern edge of the Arabian peninsula lies a unique country often less travelled. Oman is a land of many surprises and wonders, often surprising travellers with its multitude of diverse landscapes. Oman welcomes travellers with hospitality, which is part of the Omani culture and traditions. The country offers a myriad of landscapes ranging from rugged mountains to vast deserts, from pristine beaches to lush wadis (oasis valley). Oman takes pride in its culture and hospitality.
Places to visit: Jebel Akhdar, Bahla Fort, Mutrah Souq, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and more.
Things to do: The region of Dhofar, including the city of Salalah, experiences a unique monsoon called Khareef from June to September. During this time, the temperature can come down to a comfortable 20℃ – 30℃.
Dishes to try: Shuwa, harees, machboos, halva, mushaltat and more.
Seychelles
The next destination perfect for the ultimate summer escape takes us to the island nation of Seychelles. It is an archipelago of over 100+ islands off the coast of East Africa, offering travellers a deep dive into a tranquil island experience. The island welcomes you with clear skies and calm waters, which makes it ideal for beach activities and other aquatic adventures. One may indulge in activities like snorkelling, diving and boat rides to unexplored islands. The island offers a unique blend of seafood delicacies infused with African, Indian, French and Chinese influences.
Places to visit: Mahe, Praslin, La Digue, Cousine Island and more.
Things to do: Soak in Vitamin D on white sandy beaches, trek, enjoy shopping, plan island hopping and more.
Dishes to try: Fish curry, breadfruit, grilled fish, coconut curry, clam soup, lentils and more.
Japan
Journey to the land of the ‘rising sun’ and embark on adventures in the mountainous regions of the country where summers are a lot more pleasant. Several Japanese provinces are cooler during the summer months of June to August. Japan’s summer festivals are a treat for travellers visiting the country. The country’s regional influences are on full display, and these festivals are more than often paired with gastronomical treats to power the body, mind and soul. The summer in Japan also attracts flower lovers to Hokkaido’s flower fields, which are in full bloom and present to viewers a spectacle right out of the movie The Wizard Of Oz’. Where flowers of different colours form a symmetrical pattern spread across acres of visible land, visually creating the illusion of a real-life painting.
Places to visit: Okinawa Islands, Mount Fuji, Kamikochi, Yakushima, Nikko and more.
Things to do: Visit Hokkaido flower fields, take part in a summer festival, visit the beach and more.
Dishes to try: Shaved ice, flowing noodles, cold Udon, raindrop mochi, cold noodle bowl and more.
Canada
For experiencing cooler weather during summer break, this destination hits the spot with its pleasant climate and an array of activities to choose from. Welcome to Canada, the Great White North, offering an ideal climate in the summer months, coupled with long daylight hours and perfect conditions to indulge in outdoor activities. Canada hosts several festivals and events during the summer where one can indulge in local culture and cuisine. Summer in Canada is the peak season, owing to which most attractions and businesses are fully operational.
Places to visit: Alberta, Churchill, Ottawa, Whistler, Banff, Niagara Falls and more.
Things to do: Visit CN Tower, explore vibrant Montreal, hike in Whistler, taste wine in Okanagan Valley and more.
Dishes to try: Poutine, butter tarts, bannock, lobster rolls, peameal bacon, split pea soup and more.
Australia
Our journey to find the ultimate escape for summer break brings us to the ‘land down under’, Australia. Journey to a land of multiple unique and different landscapes as you indulge in a diverse food-tasting session paired with the region’s popular wines. What’s summer for the world is winter in Australia, with a cooler climate on offer. The country becomes an ideal location to indulge in outdoor activities. You may choose to hike in the snow-clad Australian Alps.
Places to visit: Opera House, Great Barrier Reef, Kangaroo Island, Australian Alps and more.
Things to do: Snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef, visit Kangaroo Island, Discover Blue Mountain and more.
Dishes to try: Australian Barbeque, Crab Sticks, Parmigiana, Barramundi, Vegemite and more.
Turkey
This next destination is perfect if you wish to stick around the coastline and delve into Mediterranean dishes specialising in seafood. Yes, the next destination lies in Anatolia of West Asia and East Thrace in Southeastern Europe popular the world over as Turkiye. The nation experiences hot summers, however, this makes it the perfect opportunity to explore the coastal wonders of Antalya and Bodrum. Savour seafood delicacies as you relax on the beaches or choose to indulge in water sports. Whatever you choose, the local cuisine is sure to leave you spellbound.
Places to visit: Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Istanbul, Bodrum, Antalya, and more.
Things to Do: Hot air ballooning in Cappadocia, exploring ancient ruins, sailing along the Mediterranean, and more.
Dishes to Try: Kebab, baklava, Turkish delight, meze, pide, lahmacun and more.
Maldives
Our search for the ultimate escape for the perfect summer break brings us to the island country of Maldives. The months of June to August ensure a visit to the island country light on your pocket as it is the beginning of the monsoon season. These months guarantee accommodations at cheaper fares while ensuring the perfect weather, with the occasional showers now and then. Maldives is renowned for its coastal and marine tourism, which during these months become quite affordable for travellers looking to travel on a budget. It is perfect for those seeking a luxurious and serene summer escape, making the Maldives an unparalleled destination.
Places to visit: Male, Maafushi, Baa Atoll, Hulhumale Island, and more.
Things to Do: Snorkel in coral reefs, experience underwater dining, relax in overwater bungalows, and more.
Dishes to Try: Mas huni, Garudhiya, Fihunu mas, Saagu bondibai, and more.
Georgia
Georgia is another excellent destination for travellers looking to escape the summer heat. The country experiences warm weather from June to August. This, in turn, makes it an ideal time to hold festivals and indulge in the rich Georgian cuisine. One may also indulge in outdoor activities like hiking, trekking, or just relaxing on the black sand beaches of the Black Sea. During these months, a landscape blessed with greenery makes outdoor activities fun. Tbilisi comes alive as you wander through its numerous markets and enjoy the city’s unique nightlife.
Places to visit: Tbilisi, Kazbegi, Batumi, Kakheti, and more.
Things to Do: Wine tasting in Kakheti, hiking in Kazbegi, exploring old Tbilisi, and more.
Dishes to Try: Khinkali, khachapuri, lobio, mtsvadi, and more.
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is the next destination we recommend for the perfect summer break, and here is why. The UK witnesses pleasant summers from June to August, making it ideal to explore the city and its outskirts. The ideal weather makes it perfect for indulging in outdoor activities and shopping till your heart drops. Several festivals and events take place during the summer months, providing you with a unique experience. Whether you choose the coastline, the outskirts of the city or the city itself, you will not be disappointed by the options available to indulge in things to do in the UK. The food scene in the UK is very diverse as the city has become a melting pot of several cultures that call it their home.
Places to visit: London, Edinburgh, Lake District, Cornwall, Cotswolds, and more.
Things to Do: Visit Buckingham Palace, hike in the Lake District, explore castles, and more.
Dishes to Try: Fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, cream tea, Sunday roast, and more.
Greece
The final destination for the perfect summer retreat brings us to the land of the Greek Gods, Greece. The country witnesses mild summer weather between June and August, making it a great destination for exploring the diverse landscape. The country is an excellent location for a summer escape, with its stunning islands, rich history, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine. Savour the unique Mediterranean offerings that make use of seasonal vegetables, fresh seafood and aromatic spices, creating light dishes that satiate the palette.
Places to visit: Santorini, Athens, Mykonos, Crete, Rhodes, and more.
Things to do: Island hopping, exploring ancient ruins, savouring Greek cuisine, and more.
Dishes to Try: Moussaka, souvlaki, baklava, tzatziki, and more.
