It’s that time of the year when the weather gets warm, days are longer and people come out to play. Summer is always a great time for travel, but this year feels a bit different. It’s the first time since 2020 that a lot of people are feeling comfortable traveling again.
Although inflation is causing travel prices to rise, people are ready to explore new destinations and escape their everyday lives, if only for a week or two.
Related: Americans Are Taking “Nearcations” Due To Inflation, New Survey Reveals
Here are 25 exciting destinations you should visit this year:
South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
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Located in south-central Africa, Zambia is a great destination for an adventurous family vacation.
Stay at Shawa Luangwa located in South Luangwa National Park. The property offers “silent game drives” where you can see lions, elephants, buffalo, and more.
Madeira, Portugal
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This volcanic island is part of Portugal and is located off the northwest coast of Africa. It’s filled with waterfalls and canyons.
Spend your days visiting beach bars while staying in one of the island’s many private villas known as quintas. Enjoy dinner at one of its Michelin-starred restaurants.
Direct flights are available from Boston and New York if you book through Sata Azores Airlines.
Costalegre, Mexico
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Escape the busyness of Puerto Vallarta and head to Costalegre with its 43 beaches, hiking trails and chill vibes.
Four Seasons Hotel will be opening a resort in the next few months which will have 157 rooms and suites and a sauna. There will also be an international airport opening this year, making it more accessible for travelers.
Gouda, Netherlands
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Only a 50-minute train ride away from Amsterdam, Gouda is an underrated town perfect for history and architecture lovers.
Explore Gouda’s cheese market, which happens Thursday mornings in town and dates back to 1395.
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Bonaire
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If you’re looking for a tropical destination to swim, snorkel, dive, but also rest — Bonaire is your spot. The white beaches and turquoise waters will bring peace and restoration.
Visit the Bonaire National Marine Park to explore over 350 species of fish and 57 species of coral.
Eastern Shore, Maryland
Hear #HarrietTubman’s story through an interactive re-enactment by Griot, Janice Curtis Greene June 5, 12-1pm. Sing spirituals and freedom songs. At the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center in Church Creek, MD. https://t.co/YMLaFK0lhg#tubmanbyway #tubman200 pic.twitter.com/F9hXyoKM4h
— Harriet Tubman Byway (@Tubman_Byway) June 1, 2022
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Harriet Tubman was born and grew up here. Its where she learned how to hunt and use stars to navigate; skills she used to escape slavery to Pennsylvania.
Visit the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center to learn more about her story and journey. The visitor center is one of the 30+ stops along the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway, which spans 125 miles.
Costa Rica
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Explore 174 miles of the Camino de Costa Rica, a hiking route that passes through villages, towns, indigenous lands, and natural areas.
Lodging, tours, food, and other amenities are provided by local businesses, families, and nonprofits.
Procida, Italy
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Procida is the Italian Capital of Culture 2022 and has a theme of La cultura non isola, which means Culture does not isolate.
Only 40 minutes from Naples on a high-speed ferry, this island city has lots of art exhibits, festivals and good food.
Costa Smeralda, Sardinia
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This Italian destination has Caribbean-like beaches, incredible nightlife, and great shopping. It’s the ideal location for a luxury-filled vacation.
Walt Disney World, Florida
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Adults love Disney World and so do kids — it’s one of the most magical places on earth, after all. Make your way through the park getting on rides, exploring its interactive adventures such as the new Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, and indulging in treats.
Related: How To Enjoy Disney World’s Magic Animal Kingdom As An Adult
Pereira, Colombia
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There are now nonstop flights to Pereira from Miami on American Airlines. Spend your days walking among the tallest palm tress in the world, hot air ballooning and horseback riding through a rainforest!
Doha
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Venture to Doha Quest, the first theme park in Qatar. It’s also home to the tallest indoor roller coaster in the world, coming it at about 200 feet.
Art lovers should visit the Museum of Islamic Art, a huge 560,000 square-foot space. The museum is currently closed, but will reopen this fall.
Doha is super accessible to travelers, with nonstop flights from New York City.
Franklin, Tennessee
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This walkable town is charming and filled with history and southern charm. Head downtown where there are a lot of restaurants, Civil War Museums and history markers.
Arrington Vineyards is the largest winery in the region and a must when in Franklin.
Greenville, South Carolina
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Another southern town with southern charm, Greenville will soon be home to a luxury boutique hotel. The Grand Bohemian Hotel will have an art gallery, spa, and a two-story restaurant and bar.
This town is great for solo travelers looking for some extra “me time.”
Panama
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Panama has a bustling coffee scene, amazing culture and delicious food. Spend your time visiting one (or all) of the country’s seven indigenous communities. Locals are usually excited to share their traditions and culture.
Trek through the rainforest on hanging bridges suspended in the air and visit Volcán Barú, an active volcano that overlooks both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Related: Panama’s Black Heritage Month Celebrates 500 Years Of African Legacy
São Paulo, Brazil
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The largest city in South America, São Paulo is filled with world-class museums, incredible restaurants, beautiful hotels, and more. Walk through the streets to take in the city’s mid-century architecture.
Seattle, Washington
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Known as the Emerald City, Seattle is the perfect mix of nature and city. Grab a bite at Conversation in Downtown Seattle, then explore Chihuly Garden and Glass. Enjoy the evening at Olympic Sculpture Park or take a cruise on Seattle’s Waterfront with Argosy Cruises.
Belize
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With an abundance of rainforests and barrier reefs, Belize is perfect for those who love adventure. The island also has luxury resorts and direct flights from Houston, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Seattle.
Related: 10 Fascinating Facts About Belize To Inspire Your Next Vacation
Finger Lakes, New York
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Finger Lakes is the perfect destination for travelers who are looking for wellness-focused destinations. Head to Inns of Aurora, a luxury resort featuring a new holistic wellness facility with meditation areas, hydrotherapy pools, and a cafe.
Ilha Caldeira, Mozambique
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Located off the coast of the Primeiras and Segundas Archipelago, this private island is within a marine-protected area.
Banyan Tree resort chain will open a five-star property on the island at the end of 2022. The property will have 40 private solar-powered pool villas, a spa, beaches, and more.
Malaysia
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If you love exploring cities and nature when traveling, Malaysia is a must. The county is home to not only bustling cities but also wildlife, beaches, rainforests, and jungles.
With a mix of Chinese, Indian and Malay cultures, you’ll be delighted by the flavorful food and rich culture.
Related: After Living In Five Countries, I Chose Malaysia For Its Blend Of Culture