Summer destinations
The sun is already here meaning summer is coming. Whether you like to explore culture, go on an adventure or just want to relax and sunbathe on the beach, there’s always something for everyone. Here are some destinations to consider this summer
Your dancehall destination
Jamaica is a beautiful island with a rich cultural legacy. This is perfect for those who want to enjoy both the luxury resort vibes and local culture. You can go on an excursion to Ocho Rios to climb Dunn’s River Falls and do some cliff jumping. Sailing down the river on a bamboo raft is an amazing experience.
The Mother City
Cape Town is a modern and cosmopolitan city by the sea with a lot to offer to travellers: sunset spots, stunning beaches on the Atlantic Coastline, endless day hikes, great food and drinks.
You should spend time at the four beautiful Clifton beaches but don’t expect the water to be warm as it comes straight from Antarctica. Named in the order in which they are encountered from the city, each Clifton beach has its unique vibe: If you want some peace go to the First beach, the Second one attracts a younger crowd and you can enjoy a volleyball day there. The Third beach is Clifton's gay beach but is open to everyone and the Fourth one is the largest and most popular of the Clifton beaches.
You can go hiking to Table Mountain or Lion’s Head, the second most famous peak. Explore Bo Kaap, a colorful and vibrant neighbourhood of Cape Town. If you're a penguin lover, you should visit Boulders Beach, home to endangered African penguins.
Images: @pinterest & @spiritedpursuit
Your Caribbean ABCs
Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao, known as the ABC Islands, are one of the best Caribbean destinations for every sun-seeking traveller. All three islands are unique and have their own charm.
Aruba is known for its beautiful white sandy beaches and its pink flamingos walking around the island.
Bonaire is famous for its salt Pyramids and pink salt lakes. It's the paradise of diving, snorkelling and water sports.
Curacao is the most adventurous of the three islands and you will also find pigs on the beach at Playa Porto Mari.
I suggest reversing your ABC by starting to visit Curacao, Bonaire and finishing with Aruba as the relaxing part should happen before going back home.
Images: @pinterest
An explosion of desert landscapes
Namibia is the country with the largest sand dunes in the world. Climb up Dune 45 to watch the sunrise and to have an amazing views of the desert. You have probably seen the picture of the famous salt site surrounded by trees and orange sand. Well, it’s in Deadvlei where you can admire it. We suggest you take off your shoes and feel the crystallised salt and sand under your feet.
You should include Sandwich Harbour in your itinerary which is only reachable by car. This is where the desert meets the ocean. It's wonderful, amazing and incredible to see and experience it!
Images: @pinterest
Rio De Janeiro
Vibrant colors, wonderful sunsets, eye-catching graffiti on the walls - That's Rio De Janeiro. Spend your day at Copacabana Beach or Ipanema Beach for its beautiful sunsets. Grab a seat on the Escadaria Selaron steps like Pharell Williams and Snoop Dogg in the music video “Beautiful”. The colorful steps were designed by Jorge Selarón, a Chilean artist who fell in love with the city.
Head to the Dois Irmãos (Two Brothers) mountains or take the Sugarloaf cable car for a wonderful view of Rio. Don’t miss out on Christ the Redeemer, one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.
Images: @tinakunakey & @pinterest
The Land of Teranga
Teranga is a Wolof word meaning “hospitality”, that’s what you receive when you land in Senegal. This country has a fascinating culture, vibrant music, colorful markets and friendly people. Senegal has so much to offer and it’s hard to know where to start. You can visit Le Lac Rose, Îlot Sarpant, Gorée Island and the African Renaissance Monument (the tallest sculpture in Africa).
Images: @pinterest & @spiritedpursuit
Pole pole
You will often hear these two words while in Tanzania. It’s in Swahili and means “slowly”,“take it easy” - A reminder to take time to enjoy things and not to rush. I don't know where to start or what to say, just book your flight tickets and start exploring this country.
From hiking the Kilimandjaro to a safari in Serengeti, swimming with turtles or relaxing on the wonderful beaches of Zanzibar, there is something for everyone.
Head to Matemwe, Jambiani, Paje, Nungwi and Mnemba Island for unique experiences while visiting Zanzibar. Be sure to visit Stone Town to discover the local culture pole, pole and to see a wonderful sunrise over the Indian Ocean.
Whether you travel for history, food or natural wonders, you will find your way to one of these destinations for your next holiday.
Images: @spiritedpursuit & @carmelmuz