Summer vacation choice time is upon us – everything from theme parks to national parks, staycations to extravagant getaways. This year, many people are looking for something different that won’t break the bank, and are considering “alternative” destinations with fewer people and lower prices. If this sounds like your type of summer vacation, enquire about one or more of these destinations:
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Santa Barbara, California
Located about 70 miles north-west of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara nestles between the Pacific Ocean and Los Padres National Forest. Adults can enjoy the nearby wine country, play some golf, hike in the forest, or splash in the water with a variety of watersports. Activities for kids abound, too, from the zoo to the maritime museum, to the free Shoreline Park. Santa Barbara hotels are a steal compared to the ones in Los Angeles, but the metropolis is only a couple of hours away by car, so you can enjoy the big city without being in it full-time.
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Vail, Colorado
World-renowned as a ski destination, in the summer this town becomes a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Pick up fresh produce at a local farmer’s market, or take a gondola ride up to the top of the mountain for spectacular views. You could mountain bike or hike back down (or ride down if the kids are tired from bouncing and climbing on the climbing wall). Why not sample some wines and relax at one of the outstanding spas for true relaxation?
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Toronto, Canada
If small-town feel with big-city amenities is your style, try Toronto. Toronto Island Park has a day’s worth of activities for everyone, and the city abounds with breweries and distilleries, so you can sample a different beverage every night. Of course the CN Tower, the iconic landmark of the city, is a must-see, and a stop at the Hockey Hall of Fame will introduce you to the sport that also functions as a religion for many of the locals.
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Ile-de-Ré, France
Just west of La Rochelle, the island of Ile de Ré offers sunshine, calm waters, and that unique French ambience. Bicycle paths criss-cross the island, and this relaxed mode of transportation is typical of the way of life on the island. Nobody hurries, everyone smiles, and relaxation is the order of the day. Prices are also lower than nearby Bordeaux, or across the country in pricey Nice or Cannes.
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Patara, Turkey
Protected historic sites and marine life sanctuaries have protected this gem of a town and its environs from ruination by tourists. A beautiful beach stretches 12 miles (20 km) in length, and the nearby ruins of the Aspendos Roman theater entertains tourists, re-enactors and history students in an impressive setting. Opera and ballet are both performed here during the high season, and many hiking trails wind through the stunning scenery. It is a great experience to spend a day river rafting or hiking the Köprülü Kanyon National Park. Small hotels and pensions are the order of the day in Patara – large hotels are forbidden close to the ancient ruins.
