Greece’s Ionian Islands: A Haven of Relaxation
As the summer sun beats down, the Ionian Islands in Greece beckon with their crystal-clear turquoise waters, inviting you to bask in their serene beauty. This cluster of six islands, nestled west of mainland Greece, is a haven for those seeking a tranquil escape. The hot-blue skies and brilliant beaches create the perfect setting for a relaxing getaway.
To fully appreciate the Ionians, visit during the summer months when every day is a beach day. While July can be busy, there are ways to avoid the crowds. For instance, explore the undeveloped countryside on Corfu, particularly in the north where writer-naturalist Gerald Durrell once lived, or venture into the herb-scented mountainous interior. Kefalonia, the largest Ionian island, strikes a balance between mass tourism and authentic Greek towns, making it an ideal destination. And don’t forget to savor the local wine!
Alternatively, head to Lefkada, which remains largely undeveloped. Discover untamed beaches on the west coast or join the windsurfers in Vassiliki Bay, where summer thermals create the perfect conditions.
Suffolk, England: An Artist’s Inspiration
For those seeking artistic inspiration, Suffolk in England is a treasure trove of creativity. This picturesque county is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country, making it the perfect setting for artists and nature lovers alike. The rolling hills, charming villages, and stunning coastline provide endless inspiration for those looking to unwind and tap into their creative side.
Zanzibar: A Treasure Trove of History and Culture
Zanzibar, with its crumbling palaces and heart-rending slave-trade relics, is a treasure trove of history and culture. This enchanting island, located off the coast of Tanzania, is at its best in July, during the dry season. Take a dhow to snorkel off the west coast, watching for dolphins as you glide through the crystal-clear waters. Visit a spice plantation to sniff the leaves and buds, and find your own patch of coral-sand perfection on one of the many wonderful beaches.
Norway’s Arctic: A Journey of Adventure
For the more adventurous, Norway’s Arctic offers a journey of a lifetime. Go in search of walrus, whales, and polar bears in this vast, untamed wilderness. Embark from popular cities like Stockholm and Copenhagen, and explore the scenic ports of Helsinki, Tallinn, and Riga. The highlight of the journey is often St Petersburg, where boats dock for multiple days, allowing time to explore the city’s grandeur, including canal tours and visits to the countryside palaces of Peter the Great.
The Ghan: An Epic Outback Rail Ride
For a truly epic adventure, take the Ghan, one of the world’s greatest train journeys. This 1864-mile journey runs between Darwin and Adelaide, bisecting the remote heart of Australia. En route, you’ll pass through miles of wallaby-hopped wilderness, with the view from the window remaining mesmerizing throughout. Stop-offs provide time for quick excursions, such as a cruise along lush Nitmiluk Gorge or a nature discovery walk along dreaming trails in Simpsons Gap. July is a great time to take this journey, with the north being dry and the desert being cool.
Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way: A Drive of a Lifetime
For a drive of a lifetime, explore Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, a 1490-mile route along the west coast. This scenic drive unravels some of Ireland’s finest landscapes, including Mizen Head, the Cliffs of Moher, and Malin Head. With 18 hours of daylight in July, you can sightsee or pub-crawl until 11 pm, making it the perfect time to hit the road. Stop in Cork for good eating and nearby Blarney Castle, trace the scenic Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula, and listen to live music in the bars of Galway.
Wisconsin, USA: A Great Lake Break
In Wisconsin, the shores of Lakes Michigan and Superior lure heat-fleeing urbanites in July, the warmest month. Unsurprisingly, the pretty waterfront villages and beaches of Door County bustle with vacationers, though peace can still be found on Washington Island and in Newport State Park. For a real retreat, head northwest to the shore of Lake Superior, stopping en route to dip or fish in one of the glacial lakes peppering Vilas and Oneda Counties. Charming Bayfield, with its Victorian buildings, is a likable destination in itself, but it’s also the jumping-off point for the Apostle Islands, a mostly still-wild archipelago of 22 russet-fringed emerald specks.
Aarhus and Jutland, Denmark: A Cultural Hotspot
Aarhus, Denmark’s second city, is a cultural and culinary hotspot. Founded by Vikings 13 centuries ago, today it’s a contemporary city with groundbreaking art museums, rejuvenated waterfront cultural centers, and innovative architecture. Come evening, the city reveals its true colors, with cafes, cocktail bars, and clubs showcasing that quintessentially Danish blend of smiles and smarts. High summer brings a host of festivals celebrating flowers, jazz, Viking heritage, and more, plus warm sun for basking on sandy Baltic beaches.
Gansu, China: Absorbing Silk Road History and Tibetan Culture
While lowland regions of China swelter in summer heat, summer is the time to explore the high Tibetan plateau, when temperatures are pleasant and trails are free of snow. Gansu province is popular with domestic tourists, renowned as the gateway of the ancient Silk Road and the home of jaw-dropping grottoes, notably at Mogao near Dunhuang. But away from these hot spots, you’ll find peace, along with rich Tibetan culture and wild landscapes, particularly in Gannan prefecture south of provincial capital Lanzhou.
Colombia: A Mini Dry Season
Colombia, with its diverse landscapes and climates, offers a mini dry season in July and August, making it the perfect time to explore. From Caribbean beaches to mountains, plains, jungle, and desert, Colombia has something for everyone. This period of drier weather is ideal for outdoor activities, allowing you to wake up and smell the coffee in this vibrant country.