Summer is on the horizon… Promising sun-drenched days and balmy evenings that call for adventure and relaxation. It’s time to plan the ultimate Summer escape for 2024.
Escape the crowds and discover hidden gems this summer. From tranquil beaches to picturesque mountains, these underrated destinations offer a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Perhentian Islands, Malaysia
The stunning Perhentian Islands, located about 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) off the northeast coast of Malaysia near Thailand, offer vibrant coral reefs, abundant marine life, and numerous dive sites to explore.
The Perhentian Archipelago comprises two main islands: Pulau Perhentian Besar and Pulau Perhentian Kecil. Each island has its own distinct personality and highlights. Pulau Perhentian Kecil, the smaller island, is more developed with a wide range of accommodations, making it popular among backpackers. Its white sandy beaches, relaxed atmosphere, and affordable options draw many visitors.
On the other hand, Pulau Perhentian Besar is less developed but offers higher-end accommodation, making it a preferred choice for honeymooners and those seeking a romantic getaway.
Both islands are renowned for their incredible scuba diving, offering a memorable experience for all visitors.
Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Raja Ampat, an islands-regency in West Papua Province, offers a pristine paradise far from the view-blocking skyscrapers, dense concrete jungles, and congested traffic of modern cities. Here, Mother Nature and warm, friendly people welcome you to a place where words like beautiful, enchanting, magnificent, and fascinating take on true physical meaning.
Situated off the northwest tip of Bird’s Head Peninsula on Papua, the most eastern island of the Indonesian Archipelago, Raja Ampat, or “The Four Kings” in Indonesian, comprises over 1,500 small islands, cays, and shoals surrounding the four main islands of Waigeo, Batanta, Salawati, and Misool. Beyond its waters lie spectacular wonders, both above and below the surface, while on land, thick jungles offer further exploration and discovery.
Pula, Croatia
Looking for underrated summer travel ideas that blend ancient history, vibrant beaches, and industrial charm? Consider Pula, Croatia’s hidden gem at the tip of Istria.
Picture yourself relaxing on pristine beaches, the largest in the region, before stepping back in time at the Pula Colosseum, a monumental Roman amphitheater that still hosts summer concerts. This unique blend of history and leisure is just one reason Pula deserves a spot on your summer travel list.
Pula stands out from other Istrian towns, eschewing the typical “dolce vita” vibe to embrace its rich industrial heritage with a mix of architectural styles—Roman, Venetian, Austro-Hungarian, and even socialist. It may be rough around the edges, but its authenticity and hidden gems are waiting to be discovered.
With affordable accommodations and fewer crowds, summer is the ideal time to explore Pula for travelers seeking value and charm in their summer getaway.
The Danakil Depression, Ethiopia
The Danakil Depression, situated in northern Ethiopia, is a vast plain stretching approximately 124 miles by 31 miles. Nestled in the Afar Region and bordering Eritrea, this unique landscape is a result of the gradual separation of Africa and Asia, including the Horn of Africa. It is a remarkable geological formation, formed by the divergence of three tectonic plates in the region.
The Danakil Depression is not just a geological marvel with the potential to become a future sea and possibly the cradle of humanity; it also holds the title of being the hottest place on Earth in terms of its average year-round temperature. This makes it essential for tourists to remember their sun hat and a bottle of water to stay safe and comfortable in the extreme heat.
<Image 04>
Tasmania, Australia
Tasmania, the island state, is a haven of natural beauty, boasting expansive wilderness, picturesque beaches, and extraordinary wildlife. Summer is an ideal time to delve into its national parks like Freycinet and Cradle Mountain, savor fresh local delicacies, and immerse yourself in its thriving art scene, highlighted by the renowned MONA (Museum of Old and New Art).
In the western part of Tasmania, there are valleys, plains, and ridges that likely haven’t been explored by humans in the past 250 years. Even areas near popular recreational spots, like the Western Arthur Range in the state’s southwest, feature lake shores, moorlands, and dense cool-temperate jungle that may have never been touched by human feet in recorded history.
Stay tuned for more Summer Escapes…
In case you missed our previous article.(Click Here)
