Summer is just around the corner. Warm weather is calling my name…and so is sand, water, and relaxation. Anyone with me?! Summer is the season of vacations, so let’s explore the best 2017 summer vacation destinations.
School is out, hours at work are often relaxed, and the weather is at its peak. Planning a summer escape can often seem like tough task, but do not fear! It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the options, but a great travel agent will listen to your needs, listen to what you DON’T want (sometimes more important!) and help you find the perfect vacation package that fits your time and budget.
Do you want something that caters to kids? A destination that includes outdoor activities? A quiet place that doesn’t accompany large crowds? A memorable place for your honeymoon?
The following travel locations are some of my favorite, most-breathtaking, and adventurous places in the world. They are all diverse and exciting options for your summer vacation plans!
7 Best 2017 Summer Vacation Destinations
1. The Bahamas
The Bahamas is tropical paradise that everyone should visit at least once in their life! It’s close to the US and just a short flight from sunny Florida. While there aren’t many true “all-inclusive” options, the number of activities is plentiful. You can snorkel in the gorgeous blue waters, swim with dolphins and stingrays, visit historic sites, and more. This is a great destination for families looking for laid-back living.
2. Hawaii
If you’re looking for a tropical paradise without a passport, Hawaii is the place for you. Although Hawaii is a part of the United States, its unique terrain will make you feel like you’re in a different country! The red and black sand beaches, the sea cliffs, volcanic landscapes, and sea life are absolutely breathtaking! Hawaii is a great place for families or couples…really, Hawaii is great for anyone who wants to to relax, see unique and breathtaking landscapes, all while staying in the USA. Did you know that Norwegian Cruise Lines is the only cruise line that offers a 7-day, inter-island, Hawaii-only cruise? It is one of the most cost-effective ways to see multiple islands in a single trip.
3. Mexico
Mexico has many beach cities perfect for a romantic destination or a fun family vacation. Mexico’s rich history also makes it a unique destination. With over 758,000 square miles, Mexico is two-thirds the size of the US and just as diverse. If you think Mexico is a “been there, done that” destination, we’d love to prove you wrong! Some of our favorite off-the-beaten-path destinations in Mexico are Acapulco, Tulum, Huatulco, and more.
Looking for an LGBT-friendly destination? Mexico welcomes you with open arms, especially the fun-loving Playa del Carmen and Puerto Vallarta areas. You can see dozens of historic ruins, experience water life with snorkeling and scuba diving, and eat delicious cuisine! In addition, experiencing Mexico is relatively inexpensive compared to other Caribbean vacations.
4. St. Lucia
This small island has it all! From chalk-colored beaches, gorgeous towering mountains, and beautiful resorts, this destination is perfect for the adventurer. The mountainous landscape of St. Lucia makes it easy for adventure lovers to start their day hiking in the mountains, spend the afternoon enjoying a natural mud bath, get some sun at the beach, and watch the sunset over the Caribbean. If that doesn’t intrigue you, then maybe zip lining through the region’s rainforest will?!
Looking for a show-stoppingly unique place to hang your head? Try Ladera, a 32-room suite-only boutique resort high in the cliffs. Each suite has an “open wall” — the west side of each unit is left open to expose the breathtaking view, and the orientation of the building maintains complete privacy.
While a little more remote than other Caribbean islands, St. Lucia has quickly become a popular destination for honeymooners and couples of all ages.
5. Jamaica
Jamaica is the home of reggae music, jerk chicken, and Blue Mountain coffee. It is also home to Seven Mile Beach, a beach that is consistently on Top 10 Lists for being one of the most beautiful in the world. Jamaica is another great destination for active travelers, with one of the top excursions being a hike around Dunn’s River Falls. Beautiful beaches in Negri, the hustle and bustle of Montego Bay and the music and food scene in Ocho Rios are all at your fingertips in this diverse country. If you want to golf, snorkel and scuba dive, you can do that and so much more!
Looking for a place to relax and reconnect with a loved one? We love Couples resorts, an upscale property dedicated to reconnecting relationships. With unlimited SCUBA, a sunset catamaran cruise, 24-hour premium beverages and more, it is one of the best properties for a truly “everything’s included” experience.
6. Turks and Caicos
Turks and Caicos is becoming a more popular summer destination year after year, and is now a prominent port location for many cruises.
Turks and Caicos is made up of 40 islands and cays. The “Provos” act as a main port for cruise ships, and on Grand Turk, you can find many historical sites. This destination also provides one of the largest reef systems in the world! Whether you’re wanting to relax or explore, Turks and Caicos provides both. Turks and Caicos is also home to one of the most popular family resorts, Beaches. Year after year, families return to this location for excellent service and attention.
7. Barbados
Although Barbados is known to be a beach vacation destination, it also offers so much more! Barbados is full of white-sand beaches, beautiful golf courses and shopping, but you can also enjoy the famous Mount Gay Rum, listen to live calypso music and partake in a polo or cricket match.
One of the most upscale islands in the Caribbean, Barbadians boast one of the highest “happiness” rates in all of the world. This luxurious island is brimming with sports, culture, and beautiful architecture.
Barbados is also home to Daphne’s Restaurant, one of the only Zagat-rated restaurants in the Caribbean. Tamarind and Colony Club are two of our favorite upscale properties in Barbados.
Even with this list, there are still so many decisions to make after choosing one of these top 2017 summer vacation destinations:
- Where to stay?
- How do you get there?
- How do I make the most of my time on vacation?
- Where to eat?
- What do you pack?
The to-do list can be endless! A vacation should be a time to relax and sometimes you need assistance before the trip even gets started. At Alpaca Your Bags Travel, we want this process to be as streamlined and easy as possible for you.
You deserve to have a relaxing experience start to finish.
To get started planning your summer vacation, click on the link below to fill out our “Help! I Need A Vacation!” planning form. We would be honored to handle all of your travel arrangements. From airline tickets, hotel planning, car rentals, travel tips, and everything in between, we want to make your dream vacation a reality!
