If you’re planning a summer getaway, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. For example, if you’re looking to save money, consider booking travel during the week rather than at the weekend. This is when airfare prices tend to be cheaper and theme park crowds are usually thinner.
Another top vacation tip is to pack light, especially when it comes to shoes. According to Shanna Rader, a travel agent with Travel Leaders, wearing the same footwear to your destination each day will cut down on space in your suitcase. This can also help prevent blisters from forming.
The Outer Banks is a chain of barrier islands in North Carolina where you can sun tan and surf on the sandy beaches. This area is also home to a number of charming seaside towns, such as Corolla, Duck and Kitty Hawk, where you can dine on fresh seafood and shop at local boutiques.
Florida is a popular beach destination for families, and Orlando has more to offer than just Mickey Mouse and the Magic Kingdom. In fact, it offers more family-friendly attractions than any other major resort in the United States. In addition to the parks, you can take in an evening show at the Cirque du Soleil, explore the botanical gardens or check out a local brewery.
A beach vacation isn’t complete without a visit to Miami Beach, where you can soak up the sunshine and explore the city’s iconic Art Deco Historic District. You can also enjoy the culinary scene, vibrant culture and energetic nightlife scene of this southern Florida hot spot.
Tulum is an approachable Bohemian beach getaway, thanks to its palm-lined beaches and Mayan ruins. The area is also known for its stylish boutique hotels, trendy open-air restaurants and yoga lounges under a jungle canopy.
Situated on the Gulf of Mexico, Destin is a seaside paradise with a variety of recreational activities to partake in. Indulge in a relaxing massage, go boating or fishing or enjoy the lively dining and shopping options at the Harbor Boardwalk. If you want to see more of what this coastal Georgia town has to offer, visit Fort Pulaski National Monument or the Tybee Island Museum.
Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Gatlinburg is an ideal spot for a family-friendly mountain retreat. Here, you’ll find a variety of kid-friendly attractions such as museums, aquariums and water parks, plus plenty of opportunities to hike, camp and play. And if you’re looking for something extra special, check out the enchanting Dollywood theme park.