Optimal weather and a break from school are why traveling is the busiest in the summer. A new study by The Vacationer shows that more than 85% of Americans plan to travel for summer 2023, representing a 5% increase from summer 2022.
Summer brings warmer weather and longer and sunnier days, which means people can be outdoors to enjoy nature and activities even longer.
The Vacationer estimates that more than 208 million Americans are planning to travel for summer 2023. There’s no better time to visit an underrated place this summer. While you probably won’t avoid busy airport lines, you can control where you go to avoid crowds.
Here are five underrated places to travel this summer and what to do when you are there.
Cape Verde
Cape Verde is a small African country in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s one of the world’s most underrated beach destinations that offers stunning beaches, unspoiled natural beauty, and adventure.
Cape Verde is made up of 10 volcanic islands, and each of them has its unique charm and feels.
Santiago is the largest island and home to the nation’s capital, Praia. It’s a bustling capital with a buzzing nightlife, an incredible beach, and fantastic shopping. Shop at Sucupira Market, explore the Plateau District — the historical center where you can admire the Presidential Palace and the Ethnographic Museum — and hang out at Quebra Canela Beach.
Another good destination is Cape Verde’s third largest island, Boa Vista. The island’s name translates to “beautiful view,” and that’s exactly what you should go for. Check out the beautiful colonial-style church near the square in Sal Rei, buy some local pottery, and don’t forget to hike in the beautiful mountains.
Jordan
Jordan is surrounded by ancient architecture, desert adventures, luxury beachside resorts, museums, and much more.
This beautiful Middle Eastern country is becoming increasingly popular, and you should take advantage before the tourist crowds start to settle in year-round.
One reason Jordan is becoming popular is because of its architectural wonders. Nealy every town or village is home to a significant historical site, according to Jordan’s Tourism Board. You will find Roman amphitheaters and Crusader Castles of the Ottoman Empire.
Jordan is also home to one of the world’s new wonders, Petra.
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Scholars say the archaeological city was established as early as 312 BC as the capital of the Arab Nabataeans. Petra is Jordan’s most-visited tourist attraction.
UNESCO has described it as “one of the most precious cultural properties of man’s cultural heritage.”
Jordan remains under the radar for many, but it’s known for its first-class hospitality, exquisite cafes, and unique adventures, such as the Wadi Rum Desert, the Dead Sea, the Red Sea, and the Jordan Trail.
Madagascar
What do you know about Madagascar outside DreamWorks Animation’s hit animated film? How many people do you know who have visited? It’s probably not that many because it can be challenging to get there.
Madagascar is a remote island nation well worth the long trip and money for people looking to embark on an unbeaten path.
The African country has gorgeous turquoise water, paper-white beach sand, and the majestic Baobab Avenue.
The natural phenomenon is located just 45 minutes away from the town of Morondava. The beautiful baobabs are estimated to be over 800 years old. You can spend a day here indulging in such beauty.
Many people don’t realize that Madagascar is an enchanting tropical destination, meaning it’s the perfect beach vacation. At Nosy Be Island, which translates to “big island,” you will find great coral reeds, warm ocean water, and active nightlife.
In addition to Baobab Avenue, don’t leave without seeing lemurs up close by participating in a safari. Lemurs are endemic to the country.
Montenegro
Situated underneath Serbia and Bosnia is a country that doesn’t get a lot of love like its neighbor Croatia.
While Croatia is understandably a sought-out destination for its beaches, tropical weather, and architecture, Montenegro has a similar charm for a fraction of the price.
If you’re looking for a place to avoid the summer crowds, Montenegro is a quieter choice when compared to Croatia and Greece. We can’t promise no crowds at all, but some adventures will allow you to encounter fewer people, such as visiting Herveg Novi, a beautiful coastal town in the bay of Kotor, or visiting Durmitor National Park and Tara Canyon.
If you are looking for a beach during your stay, head to Budva, where you will find many great beaches. Spend more than a day exploring the architecture, like beautiful old churches such as Sv. Sava, the shops, and the cafes in the Stari Grad (Old Town) area.
Uruguay
When you think of the summer, you probably want a warm destination with beaches. But some people look forward to cooling down, especially if you live in a hot place year-round.
Located between Argentina and Brazil, Uruguay is often ignored by tourists because of its famous neighbors. This is a win for people looking for underrated destinations to avoid the massive tourist crowds.
June, July, and August are considered the winter months in Uruguay. The weather falls between 50 and 75 degrees during this time, allowing you to explore comfortably.
In the capital city of Montevideo, your itinerary should include a stroll along the Rambla, Montevideo’s waterfront.
For a wine that dates back more than 250 years, head an hour north to wine country, where you can explore what locals call “bodegas” or wineries.