Tag Archives: travel tips

Beautiful sandy beach near Lagos in Ponta da Piedade, Algarve region, Portugal

Where to Go in May: The Best Places to Travel

May is an oh-so-lovely time to be hiking, sightseeing, or simply people-watching at an outdoor café in many destinations. Below are some of your smartest May trip options. Click the black buttons below to connect with a top local expert to plan an extraordinary trip for you. Here’s how to get a WOW trip.

For other months of the year, see Where To Go When.

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The Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon Kolb studio.

Kolb Studio is a historic relic perched on the edge of the Grand Canyon. Photo: Mike Buchheit

Beat the summer crowds and head to the canyon in springtime, when the weather is still pleasant. The right local fixer can have you flying over the canyon, hiking or riding mules into it, and gazing into its vastness from the best vantage points along the rim. (The South Rim is open year-round; the North Rim opens in mid-May.)
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Los Cabos, Mexico

a villa with a firepit and pool in Cabo Mexico

May in Los Cabos means less crowded beaches and restaurants—and more comfortable temperatures. Photo: CaboVillas

In May, the weather is mild and there’s little chance of rain. The bustle of spring break has passed, so it’s much less busy than just a month prior. That means less crowded beaches and restaurants—but more comfortable temperatures than the very hot summer months ahead. Plus, villa rates are lower than in high season (December through April), with great deals to be had.
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Scandinavia

Reine, Lofoten, Norway. The village of Reine under a sunny, blue sky, with the typical rorbu houses. View from the top

The village of Reine in Lofoten, Norway. Photo: Shutterstock

After months of darkness, May’s longer days bring locals out to soak up the sunlight, making the outdoor cafés lively. You’ll also find an abundance of freshly caught seafood, and celebrations throughout the countryside leading up to the summer solstice.
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Sicily

Sun setting behind Mount Etna, casting a warm glow over the colorful hillside town of Cesarò, Sicily.

Explore Sicily’s smaller towns, like Cesarò, in spring. Photo: Adobe Stock

May offers mild weather, fewer crowds, and local festivals like the Infiorata di Noto. It’s an ideal time for exploring Baroque towns and enjoying fresh seafood along the coast. Locals are also more relaxed prior to the busy summer season, making it easier to experience the true rhythm of Sicilian life.
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Santorini and Mykonos, Greece

Oia town on Santorini island, Greece. Traditional and famous houses and churches with blue domes over the Caldera, Aegean sea

Oia town, on Santorini, is famous for its blue-domed churches and white houses. Photo: Shutterstock

May through early June is one of the most beautiful times to travel to the Cyclades—the group of Greek islands that includes the iconic spots of Santorini and Mykonos, but also less-crowded favorites of our travelers, including Naxos, Paros, and Sifnos. Days are warm, but the sun is not as relentless as it is in summer. Wildflowers blossom, beaches are empty, and locals welcome you with smiles.
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European Canal Barge Cruises

Wendy biking near a barge in the Burgundy canal in France.

Wendy biking near a barge canal in Burgundy, France. Photo: Timothy Baker

In May, the weather is best (not too hot, not too cool), and the crowds haven’t yet arrived, making this a perfect month to get to know a small slice of the Continent intimately and thoroughly. Read what Wendy loved about her own barge cruise in Burgundy in May.
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Portugal

Vineyards in the Valley of the River Douro, Portugal

Vineyards in Portugal’s Douro Valley are lush and green in May. Photo: Shutterstock

The country’s weather is beautiful from March to mid-June. In the Algarve, the coastal towns are not too busy yet, so you can get a table in restaurants and enjoy uncrowded beaches. The Douro Valley’s rolling hills are lush and green from the winter rains, and there is excitement in Porto as the city prepares for summer festivities.
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Spain

La Rambla, Barcelona, Spain

La Rambla, in Barcelona, is far less crowded in May than it will be in July. Photo: Ronny Siegel/Flickr

Café terraces open in May, and residents head outdoors to enjoy Spain’s beautiful cities before the heat sets in and the crowds arrive. Spring is the perfect time for strolling and picnicking in the sparkling Mediterranean light. In Madrid, everyone pours into the streets in mid-May to celebrate San Isidro.
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France

the hilltop village of Gordes, Provence, France

Provence and its pretty villages, like Gordes, are less busy in May. Photo: Pixabay

Paris is already crowded by late spring, but May is the optimal time to explore France’s countryside: Down south in Provence, the weather is lovely, there aren’t as many tourists, and fields of poppies are in colorful bloom. In Burgundy, temperatures have usually warmed up after the feast days of the Saint de Glace (which fall in the second week of the month and seem to bring showers or even frost). Later in May, flowers on trees bloom and the vineyards turn a bright springy green. May is also filled with bank holidays and tends to be any French person’s favorite—and it never hurts to see the French in the right mood.
Read reviews of WOW trips to France here, here, and here. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Japan

Beautiful Cherry Blossom, Japan

Japan’s cherry blossom trees are still in bloom in May.

May (after Golden Week, which ends on May 5) brings great weather throughout the entire country. While the cherry blossoms generally peak in April, you can still enjoy the sweet scent and beauty of the blooms in May, but without the crowds.
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Croatia

Panoramic view of Fortresses Lovrijenac and old town of Dubrovnik, Croatia.

Dubrovnik’s Old Town, a summertime tourist magnet, is much more pleasant in May. Photo: Shutterstock

In late April and May, you have glorious weather, the crowds are thinner, and prices are a little lower than at the height of summer.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Croatia. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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The Cotswolds, England

England, Cotswolds, Hidcote gardens. Photo: Jonathan Epstein

Hidcote Manor Gardens in the Cotswolds, England. Photo: Jonathan Epstein

By May, spring has taken hold, so flowers are blooming across the Cotswolds—fruit-tree blossoms, clematis, and wisteria are everywhere. The air smells fresh, and there are so many shades of green. Hotel rates are also lower than in the summer high season.
Read reviews of WOW trips to England. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Peru’s Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu

The view of the Sacred Valley in Peru.

The Sacred Valley is a hiker’s paradise in May. Photo: Shutterstock

May is a wonderful month to be outdoors exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Choose from a wide variety of hiking trails for easy day hikes or overnight treks through the Andes. Skies are mostly clear, hillsides are green following the heavier rains that have ended by mid-April, and there are fewer crowds. Temperatures are also warmer on average than during the peak season (June through August). Base yourself in the Sacred Valley and enjoy convenient side trips to Machu Picchu and Cusco.
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Brazil’s City and Countryside

Tropical view of Copacabana Beach with city skyline of Rio de Janeiro Brazil aerial view

May is ideal for combining Rio’s beaches—this is Copacabana—with the Pantanal’s wetlands. Photo: Shutterstock

Given its large mass and varied geography, the perfect time to visit Brazil depends on what parts of the country you hope to see. May makes for a good city-country combo: some of the best animal sightings in the Pantanal wetlands, and the sunniest skies and a gentler mood in Rio.
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Chile’s Atacama Desert

Atacama desert, Andes, Chile

The Atacama desert is at its prime in May. Photo: Shutterstock

This geological wonder is typically dry by May—though the Atacama is one of the driest places on the planet, in recent years it’s seen rain showers and even flooding from January to March—and many dormant desert plants are in bloom, transforming the arid landscape. Try to visit during the new moon, when the Atacama’s famously dark sky is at its prime for stargazing.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Chile. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Bolivia

small piles of sand dot the Salar de Uyuni salt flat in Bolivia. A snowy mountaintop is in the background

The Salar de Uyuni salt flat, Bolivia. Photo: Shutterstock

May is the sweet spot at the Salar de Uyuni salt flats: It’s not too cold, not too crowded, and the Salar is dry enough to cross in a vehicle but you still get some reflections off its surface.
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Scotland

Kinnoull Hill tower ruins, Perth Scotland, overlooking the River Tay on a clear day

The Kinnoull Hill tower ruins overlook the River Tay. Photo: Shutterstock

In May the weather is mild and even warm on occasion, and you won’t have to deal with the August crowds. Since this month falls before peak season (June–September), you can find some bargains, and the hills and roadways are dotted with blooming gorse, a bright-yellow flower.
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Mediterranean Cruises

Celebrity Reflection cruise ship

The Celebrity Reflection. Photo: Celebrity Cruises

May is the sweet spot: The weather is gorgeous, temperatures are ideal for sightseeing, and crowds are not as abundant as in summer, when kids are out of school and both overseas visitors and Europeans flock to the Mediterranean.
Read reviews of WOW Mediterranean cruises here and here. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Turkey’s Aegean Coast

view from a wooden gulet boat on Turkey's Aegean Coast

A wooden gulet is an enticing way to explore the hidden islands of the Aegean. Photo: Sea Song Tours

In May the sun is out but it’s not sweltering, the sea is calm, and summer crowds haven’t arrived. Plus, rates are up to 50% lower than during the high season of July and August.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Turkey. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands

Quito plaza, Ecuador

Quito’s famously changeable weather is usually mild in May. Photo: Myths & Mountains

Ecuador’s capital city, Quito, is called the City of Four Seasons for a reason: The weather can change in the blink of an eye. May falls during the shoulder season, when the temperature is mild, usually reaching the high 60s, and there are fewer travelers. It’s also a great month to combine mainland Ecuador with the Galápagos Islands, before all the families descend in summertime, filling the boats there.
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A Safari in Namibia

Sorris Sorris Lodge, Namibia

Sorris Sorris Lodge, Namibia. Photo: Tino De Njis/Namibia Exclusive

In May, temperatures are mild night and day, the occasional rains tease the desert wildflowers into bloom, and the animals are fat and happy. Read what Brook loved about Namibia in spring.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Namibia. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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A Safari in Zambia and Zimbabwe

two people paddle past elephants on the Zambezi River in Chiawa, Zimbabwe

You can navigate Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park via canoe safari. Photo: EXPLORE

In May, everything is still verdantly green from the rains and the temperature is delightful, but it’s dry enough that you see plenty of wildlife and there are virtually no mosquitoes or tsetse flies. Game viewing during this time is not quite as intense as later in the season, when it is very dry and dusty, but the landscape is more beautiful and the animals more at ease.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Zambia and Zimbabwe. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Romania

The view of Bran Castle in Transylvania, Romania.

Bran Castle, in Transylvania, inspired Bram Stoker’s description of Dracula’s castle. Photo: Tim Baker

May and June offer prime weather with the fewest crowds at the country’s dozens of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Available activities range from horseback riding and skydiving to truffle hunting and wine tasting.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Romania. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Other Smart Options This Month

Click on any of the destinations below to find out why May is a good time to go.

North America

Hawaii: Maui, Oahu, and the Big Island

Mexico: Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Maya

Montana and Wyoming: Yellowstone National Park

Utah’s national parks

 

Central America & Caribbean

Bahamas and the Leeward Islands (St. Martin, St. Barts): yacht charter

Costa Rica: Pacific and Central regions

Cuba

 

Europe

England: castles, manor houses, and gardens

France: Paris apartment rentals

Germany: Bavaria

Hungary

Ireland: Killarney and County Kerry

Italy: Puglia, Rome, Umbria and Venice

Malta

Norway

Turkey: Cappadocia and Istanbul

 

Asia and Pacific

China: big cities and small villages, and Yunnan Province

India: Trekking and tiger reserves

Indonesia: Bali without the crowds

Nepal

New Zealand, including Queenstown hiking and cycling

The Philippines

Southeast Asia

 

Africa and Middle East

Madagascar

Morocco

Seychelles

South Africa: Cape Town and Winelands

 

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Lupins bloom above the ancient Inca ruins of Choquequirao in the Andes, Peru

Where to Go in April: The Best Places to Travel

Flowers in full bloom, festive celebrations, and mild temperatures make April a lovely time to visit many parts of the globe. Below are some of your smartest April trip options. Click the black buttons below to connect with a top local expert to plan an extraordinary trip for you. Here’s how to get a WOW trip.

For other months of the year, see Where To Go When.

GET A PERSONALIZED TRIP RECOMMENDATION


Hawaii

Makena, Maui beach Hawaii

If you’re going to Maui in April, plan around spring break. Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson

April means an optimal combination of great weather and relatively low prices in the islands. (Just make sure to avoid the crush of visitors and higher rates that Spring Break brings.)
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Belize

Tiny island with coconut trees and boat in Belize

Charter a private boat to explore the cayes off Belize’s coast. Photo: Shutterstock

In April, the trade winds are fresh, rains are rare, there are barely any bugs, and high season is winding down. Explore world-class coral reefs, visit uncrowded Mayan ruins, learn to scuba dive (as Wendy’s son did), fish for 100-pound tarpon (which kept her husband busy), laze beside sparkling Caribbean waters—or charter your own private yacht.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Belize. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Paris

The Eiffel Tower with the river Seine in the front.

Early spring is the smart traveler’s pick for Paris. Photo: Shutterstock

Discover the first hints of spring in Paris while strolling through the Tuileries or pausing a moment under the blossoming trees by Notre-Dame Cathedral; in April, the weather is usually mild and the city is bedecked in blossoms. You’ll beat the tourist crowds before they arrive later in the spring and likely catch some excellent art exhibits, too.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Paris. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Mexico’s Riviera Maya

empty Beach at Caribbean sea in Playa del Carmen, Mexico with footprints

Playa del Carmen in April: lovely weather without the crowds. Photo: Shutterstock

Starting a week after Easter Sunday and running through May, rates are low, resorts aren’t too crowded, and the weather is pleasant (mid to high 80s) with little rain.
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Southern Spain: Seville and Andalusia

City Of Cazorla And Yedra Castle - Cazorla, Jaen, Andalusia, Spain, Europe

Andalusia’s villages host many fiestas in April. Photo: Shutterstock

Come April, the temperatures throughout Andalusia are pleasant, the aroma of orange blossoms is in the air, the light is beautiful, and there are fiestas (and bullfights) all over the region, including all the events during Easter Week.
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Morocco

camel trek through the Sahara Desert, Morocco.

Wendy and family on a camel trek through the Sahara Desert in Morocco.

Contrywide, the weather is comfortable in April. Temperature extremes are common in the desert, but at this time of year days are warm and nights are just chilly rather than unbearably cold.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Morocco here and here. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Peru

Lupins bloom above the ancient Inca ruins of Choquequirao in the Andes, Peru

Lupins bloom above the ancient Inca ruins of Choquequirao in the Andes, Peru. Photo: Adriana Von Hagen

April sees the best mix of weather both inland and on Peru’s coast; it’s sunny and warm in Lima, and dry and temperate in the Andes. Since the rainy season has just ended, the air is clear, and the fields are green and lush, dotted with the yellow, pink, and mauve hues of quinoa, amaranth, lupines, and potatoes ready to harvest.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Peru. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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The Netherlands

tulips and windmill at Keukenhof Gardens in the Netherlands

Spring is tulip time in the Netherlands. Photo: Keukenhof Gardens

April is bright and pleasant, and it’s prime time for Tulipmania, when the Keukenhof — one of the world’s largest flower gardens — is full of blooms. King’s Day (April 27) is the biggest street party of the year in Amsterdam; it’s very busy, but a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the Dutch joie de vivre (you can also enjoy the parades and festivities in a more rural setting). By traveling in April, you’ll also miss the public holidays in May that bring out large crowds.
Read reviews of WOW trips to the Netherlands. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Crete, Greece

The island of Spinalonga, Crete, Greece. Photo: Blue Palace Resort and Spa

Spinalonga Island lies just off the coast of Crete. Photo: Blue Palace Resort and Spa

Renowned for its rich local culture, Crete is a wonderful place to visit in April when Greek Orthodox Easter falls during that month (as it does in 2025 and 2026). Experience renowned Cretan hospitality throughout the festive celebrations, which are distinctive to Greece’s most southern (and thus warmest) island. There are also beautiful wildflowers in April, fewer crowds, and lower hotel rates than you’ll find later in spring.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Greece. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Istanbul

gardens and flowers around a pond at Dolmabahce Palace Istanbul Turkey

All of Istanbul—including the Dolmabahce Palace—is in bloom in April.

During the annual tulip festival in April, the city is awash in millions (literally) of colorful blooms. The weather is temperate, perfect for visiting the outdoor ancient sites that can be scorching in summer — and the tourist hordes have not yet arrived. Since it’s shoulder season, there are deals to be had at hotels.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Istanbul. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Mediterranean Cruises

Seabourn Ovation cruise ship

The Seabourn Ovation anchored off Montenegro.

April is the perfect month to enjoy the brilliant blue skies in the Mediterranean, when the sunny days start to outnumber the cold and cloudy ones of winter. Cruise ships have just repositioned to the region, so you can explore iconic ports such as Barcelona, Monte Carlo, Rome, and Venice without the crowds and heat of summertime. And fares are lower, since this is considered the off-season.
Read reviews of WOW Mediterranean cruises here and here. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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The Maldives

overwater bungalow at Joali resort in the maldives

The cantilevered hammocks at JOALI Maldives’ villas. Photo: Ryan Damm

European vacationers drive up prices from Christmas through Easter, but for the few weeks after this period, you’ll find a sweet spot of lower hotel rates and ideal weather: Temperatures are consistently in the high 80s year-round, but in late April there is almost no rain or wind, so the water is calm for snorkeling and diving.
Read reviews of WOW trips to the Maldives. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Namibia

Namib Desert, Namibia

The Namib Desert extends right up to the Atlantic Ocean. Photo: Shutterstock

Starting in mid-April, the temperatures are mild night and day, the occasional rains tease the desert wildflowers into bloom, and the animals are fat and happy. (Brook took her own family on a fun-filled trip to Namibia in April.)
Read reviews of WOW trips to Namibia. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Laos

Brook getting water-splashed by a local during Songkran Water Festival.

Editor Brook gets doused by locals during Laos New Year. Photo: Ryan Damm

Songkran, the Lao New Year, is celebrated in mid-April with a whole week of parades, street markets, and concerts. Tradition holds that revelers douse one another with water in order to wash away the past year’s sins; unlike in Thailand, where you might well be ambushed outside your hotel in the morning, in Laos the locals usually ask before splashing you. (See photos of Brook’s experience in Laos over New Year.)
Read reviews of WOW trips to Laos. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Austria, Hungary, and the Czech Republic

Cityscape views of one of Europe's most beautiful town- Vienna. Peoples on streets, urban life in Vienna Austria

Rub shoulders with locals, not tourists, in Vienna in April. Photo: Shutterstock

April means mild weather, springtime flowers, and no bus-tour crowds in Central Europe. In Budapest, the Spring Fair runs all month long with folk music, dancing, and concerts. Crowded summertime destinations, such as Lake Balaton in Hungary and the Wachau Valley in Austria, are relatively tranquil. In the Czech Republic, all the countryside castles are just reopening from their winter dormancy.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Central Europe. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Other Smart Options This Month

Click on any of the destinations below to find out why April is a good time to go.

North America

California: Yosemite National Park

Mexico City

Utah’s national parks

 

Caribbean

Bahamas and British Virgin Islands: yacht charter

Cuba

St. Barts

 

Central and South America

Bolivia

Brazil: Rio de Janeiro

Colombia: Bogota

Costa Rica: Pacific and Central regions

Ecuador: Galápagos family travel

Patagonia

 

Europe

Croatia (second half of the month)

England: Castles, Manor Houses, and Gardens

European Canal Barge Cruises: deals and tulips

Germany: Bavaria

Greece: Athens

Ireland: Killarney and County Kerry

Italy: Amalfi Coast, Florence, Lake Como villas, Puglia, Rome, and Sicily

Portugal

Romania (second half of April)

Scotland: wildflowers and deals

Spain: Madrid

 

Asia and Pacific

Asia Cruises

China: big cities and small villages, and Yunnan Province

India: trekking and tiger viewing

Indonesia: Bali without crowds

Nepal

New Zealand, including Bay of Islands and Queenstown hiking and cycling

The Philippines

Seychelles

Vietnam: north and central regions

 

Africa and Middle East

Israel and Jerusalem (after Easter and Passover)

South Africa: Cape Town and Winelands

Zambia (second half of the month)

 


 

 

Be a smarter traveler: Sign up for Wendy’s weekly newsletter to stay in the know. Read real travelers’ reviews, then use the black CONTACT buttons on Wendy’s WOW List to reach out to the right local fixer for your trip.

Skyline in the Old Quarter of Seville, Spain

Where to Go in March: The Best Places to Travel

It may still feel like winter at home, but March finds wildflowers blooming and festivals of all sorts happening around the globe. Here’s a round-up of destinations that are at their prime in March. Click the black buttons below to connect with a top local expert to plan an extraordinary trip for you. Here’s how to get a WOW trip.

For other months of the year, see Where To Go When.

GET A PERSONALIZED TRIP RECOMMENDATION


The Galápagos, Ecuador

underwater photo of a sea lion in the Galapagos islands

If you’re lucky, sea lions will come this close to you when you’re snorkeling in the Galápagos.

In March, water temperatures and clarity are the best they get all year, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. It’s also hatching season for Galápagos tortoises, and male frigate birds can be seen with their telltale neck pouches puffed up and flared out to attract females. Adults who don’t want to travel with lots of kids should avoid the spring-break weeks that range from late March to mid-April. The opposite is true for families: Book way ahead for those peak spring-break weeks that often feature family-focused departures.
Read reviews of WOW trips to the Galápagos. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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A Caribbean Yacht Charter

A yacht charter on the island of Virgin Gorda in the Caribbean.

With a private yacht you can sail wherever you want—like this quiet bay off Virgin Gorda. Photo: WLMS Yacht Charters

The Caribbean trade winds that prevail in March and April make for ideal sailing conditions in the British Virgin Islands and Belize. The summer humidity hasn’t yet arrived, and evenings are fresh and breezy. You can charter a crewed catamaran that will take you wherever you want to go: tiny, palm-studded islands with hardly another soul in sight, or spots with open-air beach bars and restaurants.
Read reviews of WOW Caribbean yacht charters. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Andalusia, Spain

Skyline in the Old Quarter of Seville, Spain

Visit the Old Quarter of Seville in March, before the crowds arrive. Photo: Shutterstock

By late March in southern Spain, temps are in the 60s, the aroma of orange blossoms is in the air, the light is beautiful, and there are fiestas (and bullfights) all over the region. Before the crowds descend for Holy Week and the spring festivals, March is a great time to visit the iconic sites in Seville and Granada, or go off-the-beaten path in Ubeda and Baeza.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Andalusia. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Puglia, Italy

Beautiful town of Alberobello with trulli houses among green plants and flowers, Puglia.

Cone-shaped trulli houses, like these in Alberobello, are Puglia’s signature architecture. Photo: Shutterstock

Many of Puglia’s charming boutique hotels and seaside osterias reopen in March after the winter off-season, making this a lovely time to visit while the locals are still well-rested from their time off and the summer crowds haven’t yet arrived. Learn the art of making burrata—a local speciality of this food-focused region—picnic in an olive grove, and visit a glass artisan’s atelier. (Just don’t expect to go for a dip in the ocean, as water temperatures are in the 50s.)
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Crete, Greece

Elouda villa, Crete, Greece. Photo: Blue Palace Resort

Hotel rates on Crete are more attractive in March. Photo: Blue Palace Resort

While many Greek islands go into hibernation in the winter, with resorts and restaurants shuttering for the season, Crete is large enough that it stays vibrant year-round. It’s also Greece’s most southern—and thus warmest—island. Not everything will be open in March, but it’s a great time to get a dose of local culture, and hotel rates are lower than you’ll find later in spring.
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Colombia’s Caribbean Coast

Islas de Rosario, Colombia

No visit to Cartagena is complete without a day trip out to the Islas de Rosario. Photo: Shutterstock

March is a great month to visit Cartagena, on Colombia’s Caribbean coast: You’ll find sunny days, clear skies, and a fresh breeze that makes the temperature much more comfortable.
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London

London Eye

A quintessential view of some of London’s landmarks. Photo: Visit London

If you think Notting Hill couldn’t get any more colorful, you should see it in the early spring, decked out with blossoms on its tree-lined streets. March brings glorious fields of daffodils to Kensington Gardens too—and everything’s in bloom in Chelsea. The icing on the cake is Kew Gardens, just a short trip outside central London and the perfect spot to celebrate the arrival of spring.
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Malta and Gozo

Ancient walls and streets of Valetta, the capital of Malta. Photo: Shutterstock

You won’t find cruise ships calling at Valletta, the capital of Malta, in March. Photo: Shutterstock

March sees few of the cruise-ship visitors who arrive daily in Malta come summer. With highs in the mid-60s and a lush green coating on the hills brought out by winter rains, this is a particularly great time of year for countryside walks and cycling on neighboring Gozo, which is smaller and more rural than Malta. Here’s what Wendy loves about Malta.
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Chile

A view of Torres del Paine's lakes from the French Valley

Patagonia—and much of the rest of Chile—is at its prime in March.

Chile is roughly twice the length of California, so it covers vast latitudes and corresponding climates. March sees some of the best weather throughout the country: warm temperatures in Patagonia, dry days in the Lakes District, and lacking the oppressive summer heat in central Chile and Easter Island. You’ll also avoid high season, which starts before Christmas and lasts through February.
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Cape Town and South Africa’s Winelands

harbor of Cape Town, South Africa with boats and table mountain

March sees Cape Town’s most reliably good weather. Photo: HPBotha/Pixabay

By March, temperatures have begun to cool, and the fierce southeasterly wind calms down—which means that outdoor activities (sea kayaking, shark diving, trips to Robben Island) are seldom canceled due to weather. It’s also one of the best months for hiking and cycling, and the “March lilies” are flowering all over the city. This being harvest time, there is frenetic activity at the nearby wine estates, accompanied by many jovial festivals.
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Norway

Northern Lights, Norway

March gives you the best shot of seeing the northern lights. Photo: Gaute Bruvik – visitnorway.com

In March there is still a lot of snow for all of Norway’s great winter activities—skiing, of course, and also dogsledding, snowmobiling, reindeer sledding, snowshoeing, and so on—but also lots of sunshine, average daytimes highs in the 30s, and long days. Statistically, this is also the best month to see the northern lights.
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New Zealand

Mount Nicholas Station, Queenstown, New Zealand

The southern-hemisphere fall is an ideal time to visit Queenstown and other spots in New Zealand.

It’s the end of summer down south, and the weather is just warm enough: around 85 degrees Fahrenheit in the day, with nice cool evenings. You have access to all of the back-country activities that bring people to this world capital of outdoor adventure.
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Northern India

Holi Festival at Nandgaon temple complex, Uttar Pradesh, India

Wear something white to the Holi Festival—it won’t stay that way for long. Photo: Abhijit Kar Gupta/Flickr

The date for Holi—India’s famous festival of colors—is set by the Hindu calendar, but it almost always falls during March; in 2026, the date will be March 4. (This is one celebration where you simply can’t be a bystander, and you don’t want to show up in your best attire: Everyone throws vibrantly colored powder and water at one another.) Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur are all great places to be during the merriment that is Holi.
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Other Smart Options This Month

Click on any of the destinations below to find out why March is a good time to go.

North America

Alaska: winter activities

Canada: British Columbia spring skiing

Hawaii: Oahu whale-watching

 

Caribbean and Central America

Cuba

Panama

 

South America

Brazil: Salvador and Trancoso

Colombia: Bogota

 

Europe

Italy: Rome

Portugal: Algarve’s almond blossom

 

Africa and Middle East

Dubai

Israel

Morocco: Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains

Oman

 

Asia and Pacific

India: Mumbai and wildlife parks and Himalaya hiking

Nepal

The Philippines

Sri Lanka

Seychelles

 

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Where to Go in November: The Best Places to Travel

November is a smart time to travel—between the summer and holiday high seasons—and fall light and often-clear skies make it a great month for photography too. Below are some of your smartest November trip options. Click the black buttons below to connect with a top local expert to plan an extraordinary trip for you. Here’s how to get a WOW trip.

For other months of the year, see Where To Go When.

GET A PERSONALIZED TRIP RECOMMENDATION


Northern Italy

view of Canelli, a town in the Piedmont region of Italy with greernery, old buildings and blue skies

November is truffle season in Piedmont.

In November head to Piedmont for truffle season; the White Truffle Fair in Alba runs the entire month. Try truffle hunting, taste the local Barolo wines, watch artisanal cheese makers, cycle among the vineyards (electric bikes are available!), hike the rolling hills beneath the crisp blue skies…or do it all with your family in a villa for Thanksgiving. This is also harvest time for olives and wine. Learn to cook al fresco in an olive grove, on a goat-cheese farm, or in a vineyard.
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Provence, France

the hilltop village of Gordes, Provence, France

Provence and its pretty villages are incredibly popular, so try to visit in shoulder season. Photo: Pixabay

The light in Provence in winter is why so many famous artists moved there, and the sunshine makes al fresco lunches possible well into November. Provencal markets bustle in the fall, and truffle hunting starts in November. Hike amid the glorious autumn landscapes and hilltop villages of the Luberon, and cycle through the wine country around Gigondas and Vacqueyras, where there are few cars and great eateries.
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Andalusia, Spain

Skyline in the Old Quarter of Seville, Spain

In November, Seville is a city of locals, not tourists. Photo: Shutterstock

One highlight of this magical part of Spain is the culture—an aspect that can be very hard to experience during the summer high season, when the numbers of tourists and residents are imbalanced. In November, by contrast, most of the visitors are gone, making it much easier to interact with locals (and to enjoy some breathing room in the region’s UNESCO World Heritage sites). The weather is still quite pleasant, with temperatures near 70 degrees during the day.
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Portugal

Beautiful nature view on Azores with small villages, tows, green nature fields. Amazing Azores. View of typical Azores village in Sao Miguel island, Azores, Portugal.

The Azores combine European-inflected villages with outstanding hiking and biking opportunities. Photo: Shutterstock

Temperatures remain in the 60s well into November, when it’s still warm enough for dinner outdoors; heat lamps aren’t needed till late in the month. Private river boats—which are much better for sightseeing than your typical river cruises—sail the Douro through the end of the month too. And the weather is even more mild on the subtropical islands of Madeira—known for outstanding hiking opportunities—and the Azores, where you can also hike, bike, and off-road around the postcard-perfect lagoons.
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Greece: Crete, Corfu, or Rhodes

Corfu is one of a few Greek islands that stays open and lively through the winter months.

Many Greek islands shut down in late October or early November, but Crete, Corfu, and Rhodes operate year-round, offering traditional cultural and culinary experiences and festivities in the winter months. November is a great time for sheep farms, olive orchards, and the wine harvest.
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Sicily

Aquamarine blue waters of sea near Taormina resorts and Etna volcano mount. Giardini-Naxos bay, Ionian sea coast, Taormina, Sicily, Italy.

Hike Sicily’s Mt. Etna in the fall. Photo: Shutterstock

If your goal is to combine culture and outdoor beauty, fall is this island’s best season. Autumn brings the olive, almond, and wine harvests, and sunny, mild weather. Outdoor activities include exploring Sicily’s Greek and Roman ruins, hiking Mt. Etna, and cycling though nature reserves and wine country.
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Morocco

Earlier this year Wendy and her family traveled through the #2 country on our list: Morocco. Here they are at the Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou.

The ksar (fortified village) of Ait-Ben-Haddou, Morocco.

The weather is perfect at this time of year: sunny days and crisp, clear evenings that make for great star-gazing in the desert. It’s also ideal for hiking in the Atlas Mountains, as it’s starting to cool down and the peaks are often photogenically snowcapped. Plus, it’s harvest time: You can see saffron being picked, and olives turned to oil, right in front of your eyes.
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Argentina and Chile, including Patagonia

Torres del Paine National Park view of mountains and water

Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia, Chile. Photo: Luis Felipa, Southwind Adventures

Most of Argentina and Chile are great at this time of year (think Buenos Aires, the Atacama Desert, even Easter Island), but Patagonia is an especially smart move in November because the lodges have a quieter, more relaxed ambiance and there is less traffic on the roads than during the busiest weeks of December and January. November is also the best time to spot Patagonia’s elusive wildlife, such as nandu, guanaco, puma, huemul, and condor, as all of the animals are more active during their breeding time. The region has a reputation for changeable windy weather, but November feels like spring, with snows melting off the high peaks and flowers beginning to bloom. Rates are sometimes also a bit lower this early in the season.
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The Brazilian Amazon

Aerial view of Anavilhanas National Park Islands, Rio Negro, Brazilian Amazon

White beaches form on the Rio Negro, in the Brazilian Amazon, in November. Photo: Shutterstock

River levels are lowest in November, so all of the beaches are out in their full splendor. (People are often shocked by the beauty of the white-sand beaches that form here, making a trip to Brazil’s region of the Amazon unique from the experiences one can have in Ecuador or Peru’s swaths of the same river system.) An ideal trip extends over five days, so it’s easy to fit into a Thanksgiving break. And the area around the Negro River, which is acidic, is not good for mosquito reproduction, so there is little chance of malaria or zika.
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Belize

aerial shot of Belize ocean with sailboat

Explore Belize on the water or in the jungle. Photo: Belize Sailing Vacations

Before Thanksgiving, hotel rates are at their lowest. The days are hot, but the humidity is dropping, and the evenings are cool and breezy. November 19 is Garifuna Settlement Day and is best spent in either Dangriga or Hopkins, where the Garifuna people celebrate—with drumming, dancing, and parades—the arrival of their Afro-indigenous ancestors more than 200 years ago.
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Mexico

Candles lighten up for Día de Muertos in Michoacan.

Día de Muertos in Michoacan. Photo: Journey Mexico

Day of the Dead (celebrated on November 1 and 2), is a significant cultural holiday deeply ingrained in tradition, and a time when Mexican families and communities unite to pay tribute to and commemorate their departed loved ones. Celebrations vary across the country, ranging from grand public festivities to more intimate private gatherings. Our WOW Listers can arrange culturally sensitive experiences in Mexico City, Chiapas, Oaxaca, and the Yucatan Peninsula.
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London for Thanksgiving break

 

Christmas in London

Christmas decorations appear in London by mid-November. Photo: visitlondon.com

November is a great month for museum lovers, as many of the blockbuster exhibitions open in the fall; there’s also the London Jazz Festival, where world-class stars and hot emerging artists share the bill. And the Christmas spirit is already in the air starting in mid-November, with holiday lights on all the shopping streets, a plethora of Christmas markets, high tea at gorgeous hotels, and holiday cheer everywhere. If you can’t wait until then, Guy Fawkes Night is celebrated with bonfires and fireworks on November 5.
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The Galápagos Islands

underwater photo of a sea lion in the Galapagos islands

Predator-free Galapagos sea lions may come this close to you when you’re snorkeling.

The Galápagos is a magnet for families with kids during summer and other school vacations; if you’re looking for a quieter time, think November (except Thanksgiving week). Blue whales, humpback whales, and whale sharks—the largest fish in the sea, growing up to 40 feet in length and weighing as much as 40,000 pounds—are most likely to be spotted in the Galápagos from June through November.
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Guatemala

A handmade kite at Santiago Sacatepéquez's Festival de Barriletes Gigantes in Guatemala.

A handmade kite at Santiago Sacatepéquez’s Festival de Barriletes Gigantes. Photo: Shutterstock

Every November 1 in Sumpago (about 30 minutes north of Antigua), the Festival de Barriletes Gigantes—Festival of Giant Kites—merges a Catholic celebration with a 3,000-year-old Mayan tradition of communing with spirits of the deceased (one that is less morbid than most Mexican Day of the Dead customs). Today, the handmade kites address social themes and the festival features lots of special dishes sold in restaurants and around the square. There is a sister festival in Santiago Sacatepéquez on the same day, which is a bit harder to get to but draws smaller crowds. November is the finish of the wet season, so plan to visit the festival early in your trip and take advantage of drier weather in the following weeks.
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Nepal

Durbar Square in Patan village Nepal

Patan’s Durbar Square, Nepal. Photo: Shutterstock

November is the perfect time in Nepal, whether you’re a trekker or just want to explore a fascinating culture. And there’s more to tempt the latter crowd than ever before, with roads leading to villages once accessible only on foot. In November, the air is crisp and clear, without the pre-monsoon dust, so the mountain views are best. And festivals abound: Near Everest, Manu Rimdu is an exorcism festival designed to purge evil from the area, ensure a bountiful harvest, and confer blessings with dancing, prayers, and comic relief. Then there is the Festival of Lights, or Tihar, honoring the gods, humans, and animals, which falls each year in either November or late October.
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Thailand

The view from Anantara Golden Triangle Resort in Chiang Rai, Thailand

From north (here, near Chiang Rai) to south, Thailand is at its best in November. Photo: Anantara

Much of Thailand is at its very best in November, when the mountains are lush and green from the recently receded monsoon, the mornings are diffused with a subtle mist suspended in the valleys, and the sun is gentler as the seasons ease into cooler weather. The rivers are deep and navigable, and the waterfalls are at optimum volume. All in all, it’s an ideal window to travel, before the crowds and costs rise in December.
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India

Drummers at the Kalapthy Festival in Kerala, India

Drummers at the Kalpathi Festival in Kerala, India. Photo: Sanjay Saxena

November is an ideal time to visit almost all of India—except the Himalayas—thanks to the temperate weather. The just-passed monsoon season has given way to relatively clear skies in Delhi and Mumbai, and there are festivals throughout the country, from the Pushkar Camel Fair in Rajasthan to the grand Kalpathi Chariot Festival in Kerala.
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Norway

Northern Lights, Norway

You have a good chance of spotting the northern lights in November. Photo: Gaute Bruvik – visitnorway.com

If you’re prepared for some unsettled weather, the benefits of visiting Norway in November include seeing the aurora borealis; trying out glass-blowing, ceramics, or knitting with local artists; and discovering the Norwegian art of “kos,” roughly translated as the practice of gratitude and of consciously appreciating one’s surroundings. During this quieter period locals have more time to share with visitors, now that the busy summer months have passed. There’s also plenty of hiking, kayaking, and even arctic surfing when the weather allows, and whales to be spotted along the country’s coast at this time of year. Here’s why Brook found Norway delightful in November.
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Australia and/or New Zealand

aerial view of the Great Barrier Reef from an airplane

November sees calm water around the Great Barrier Reef. Photo: Tourism Whitsundays

November is one of the best months for a wide-ranging trip to several different parts of these countries: The water around the Great Barrier Reef is calm, making for good visibility; and the weather is spring-time pleasant in Auckland, Sydney, Kangaroo Island, and the outback; and the peaks on New Zealand’s South Island are still picturesquely snow-capped.
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Other Smart Options This Month

Click on any of the destinations below to find out why November is a good time to go.

North America

Arizona: Grand Canyon

Florida: Disney World, Orlando

Hawaii: Maui and Oahu (for whale-watching)

 

Caribbean & South America

Caribbean yacht charter (British Virgin Islands)

Argentina: Mendoza

Colombia: Cartagena and Bogota

Cuba

 

Europe

England: The Cotswolds

Greece: Athens

Iceland (for Northern Lights)

Italy: Rome and Sicily

Scotland

Malta

 

Asia

Cambodia: Angkor Wat

China: Beijing

Indonesia: Bali

Thailand: Bangkok

Vietnam (southern)

 

Africa

Madagascar: whale sharks

 

Cruises

Africa Cruises

Antarctica Cruises

 

 

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Atacama Desert Chile night stars

Where to Go in February: The Best Places to Travel

February is a prime time for many spots in the tropics and the Southern Hemisphere. Below are some of your smartest February trip options. Click the black buttons below to connect with a top local expert to plan an extraordinary trip for you. Here’s how to get a WOW trip.

For other months of the year, see Where To Go When.

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Belize

Tobacco Caye - Relaxing at Cabin or bungalow on small tropical island at Barrier Reef with paradise beach, Caribbean Sea, Belize, Central America

Picture yourself enjoying this overwater bungalow on Tobacco Caye, off the coast of Belize. Photo: Shutterstock

Nonstop flights to Belize take off from several U.S. cities that are only about three hours away. Once you’re there you can explore world-class coral reefs, visit uncrowded Mayan ruins, learn to scuba dive (as Wendy’s son did), fish for 100-pound tarpon (which kept her husband busy), and laze beside sparkling Caribbean waters—or you can charter your own private yacht, enjoying fabulous snorkeling, sunbathing, and kayaking.
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Chile and Argentina

Atacama Desert Chile night stars

Chile’s Atacama Desert is a stargazer’s paradise.

It’s summertime in the Southern Hemisphere: That means ideal weather just about everywhere in Chile and Argentina, from Chile’s Lakes District to Mendoza’s wine region to Patagonia. (But be warned: Temperatures in Buenos Aires can reach the high 90s.) If you’re headed to the Atacama Desert, time your trip for the new moon, when the lack of moonlight makes the night skies even more impressive than usual.
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Mexico

Monarch butterflies, Michoacán, Mexico

Monarch butterflies are in full display in Michoacán in February. Photo: Scott Clark/Flickr

February is the best time to see the monarch butterfly migration in the Oyamel forests of Michoacan. After a 3,000-mile journey from the U.S. and Canada, millions of butterflies start to arrive at their wintering grounds in mid-November. They stay until late March, but February is ideal because the butterflies flutter more in the sun as temperatures rise.
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Nicaragua’s Colonial Cities and Coastlines

floating dock in Lake Nicaragua of Jicaro Island eco lodge

Enjoy the tranquility of Jicaro Island, a private-island resort on Lake Nicaragua. Photo: Jicaro Island

February is the height of Nicaragua’s dry season, and the last month before temperatures get uncomfortably hot. The best-quality properties are small and intimate: comfy colonial restorations in cities like León and Granada, and ecolodges along the San Juan River, on an island in Lake Nicaragua, and on the Caribbean and southern Pacific coasts. Despite its reputation from decades past, Nicaragua is one of the safest countries in the Americas, with a very low crime rate. It’s not a democracy, but the only danger is for those in active political opposition to the government.
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Skiing in the Alps

Ski resort in the Alps in a sunny day during winter.

February is the ideal timing for a ski trip to Europe. Photo: Shutterstock

February is the sweet spot for European skiing: It’s late enough in the season that you can count on fabulous, well-manicured snow, and the longer days give you more time on the slopes (or strolling a charming Alpine village nearby). Whether your desired homebase is a ski-in/ski-out hotel or a staffed chalet with room for the whole family, we can connect you to the right expert.
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Costa Rica

Quetzal, Costa Rica. Photo: William Grandados R. Photography

February is the start of the quetzal’s mating season—and a great time to spot them—in Costa Rica’s cloud forests. Photo: William Grandados R. Photography

February falls in the middle of Costa Rica’s dry season. Fill your days with hikes through the jungle, birdwatching in the cloud forest, visits to small sugar-cane and coffee plantations—and of course, plenty of time relaxing along the country’s storied coastlines.
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Panama

The popular Red frog beach on Basimentos Island, Bocas del Toro, Panama.

Bastimentos Island is a 10-minute boat ride from the busier Bocas del Toro, off Panama’s coast. Photo: Shutterstock

January and February see the best weather of the year in Panama, with less humidity and a cool breeze in the mornings and afternoons. The sun goes down a bit earlier, but the sunsets are amazing.
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Lake Titicaca, Peru

dancer in traditional Andean dress at the Fiesta de la Candelaria Lake Titicaca Peru

The Fiesta de la Candelaria is one of Peru’s largest festivals.

Every February, a mix of Catholicism and Andean traditions are brought together in the Fiesta de la Candelaria, which takes place in Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. This is one of the largest festivals in the country, celebrated by dancers who come from all over Peru and Bolivia for several days of performances, processions, and competitions.
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Iceland

northern lights over snowy flat plateau and lake in iceland

February’s darkness improves your chances of seeing the northern lights. Photo: kamilgrygo/Pixabay

February is one of the darkest months of the year in Iceland, bettering your chances of seeing the spectacular display of the northern lights. It’s also when the Winter Lights Festival takes place, with beautiful art installations and cultural events happening all around Reykjavik. Winters can be harsh and unpredictable, and some activities will be unavailable, but the dramatic snowy scenery—not to mention the extra time that locals have available for visitors—can make this a particularly satisfying month to visit and enjoy glacier hiking, horseback riding, snowmobiling, and heli-skiing, topped off with a dip in a natural hot spring (which you may well have to yourself at this time of year) to rest your weary muscles.
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Antarctica Cruises

Zodiac cruise through the ice, Antarctica. Photo: Abby Suplizio

Zodiac rides off Antarctica turn into whale-watching excursions in February. Photo: Abby Suplizio

By February the sea ice has melted, allowing for longer voyages and prime whale-watching when the humpbacks surface and feed. These shorter autumn days also allow glimpses of the Aurora Australis, or southern lights. What’s more, the icebergs have been beautifully sculpted by summer winds—reflecting the sun’s rays like giant crystal chandeliers—and special offers often come available for these late-season departures.
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Southern Thailand

boats on turquoise water of Ko Phi Phi Le with limestone cliffs coming out of the water in Thailand

February is a goldilocks month for southern Thailand, including Ko Phi Phi Le. Photo: Juan_Luis Pixabay

Southern Thailand is ideal in February, when the oceans are still relatively calm after the crowded peak season, and sunny skies and cooler temperatures prevail before the heat returns in April.
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Cambodia

Angkor Wat at sunrise

These monks have Angkor Wat to themselves at sunrise. Photo: Timothy Baker

In early February, the worst of the hot and steamy weather has not yet arrived—but the huge crowds that descend on Angkor Wat in January have already departed (just make sure to arrive before February 17 in 2026, to avoid the crowds that Chinese New Year brings).
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Botswana

Elephants tussle in Botswana. Photo: Wilderness Safaris/Caroline Culbert

Elephants tussle in Botswana. Photo: Wilderness Safaris/Caroline Culbert

Prices are as much as 40 percent cheaper in February than during peak season, and the vegetation is lush and green from the rains. The periodic thunderstorms that roll through often provide beautiful rainbows, which form a great backdrop for your photos. Plus, many of the wildlife have babies—zebra, wildebeest, antelope—and the predators tend to be more prolific with the greater availability of prey. This is also a time when migratory birds in full, exquisitely colored breeding plumage are in residence.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Botswana. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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United Arab Emirates and Oman

Abu Dhabi Qasr al Sarab camel caravan

A camel caravan near Qasr al Sarab, Abu Dhabi. Photo: Timothy Baker

February is one of the cooler months of the year for Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Oman, with highs in the 70s and lows in the 50s. This makes it a great time to camp out in Oman’s Empty Quarter, where the sand dunes seem endless; visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi (a good portion of which is outside); or stroll among Dubai’s towering skyscrapers.
Read reviews of WOW trips to the United Arab Emirates and Oman. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Other Smart Options This Month

Click on any of the destinations below to find out why February is a good time to go.

North America

British Columbia: snow sports & northern lights

Jackson Hole & the Grand Tetons: skiing

Oahu: whale-watching

The Rocky Mountains: skiing (first half of the month)

 

Caribbean

British Virgin Islands yacht charter

Cuba

 

South America

Brazil: Rio de Janeiro and Trancoso

Colombia: Cartagena and Bogota

Galápagos Islands: swimming and snorkeling

 

Europe

Athens

Norway: northern lights and winter activities

Rome

Paris: winter sales

Switzerland: skiing and winter fun

Venice: Carnevale

 

Asia

Asia Cruises

China: Yunnan Province

India: Delhi, Agra & the Taj Mahal and Mumbai

Nepal’s lower elevations

The Philippines

Seychelles

Sri Lanka

Vietnam: central coast

 

Africa and Middle East

Africa Cruises

Cape Town and Winelands, South Africa

 

Australia and Pacific

New Zealand: Bay of Islands and Queenstown

Sydney

 

Be a smarter traveler: Sign up for Wendy’s weekly newsletter to stay in the know. Read real travelers’ reviews, then use the black CONTACT buttons on Wendy’s WOW List to reach out to the right local fixer for your trip.

Positano on the Amalfi Coast, Italy

Where to Go in October: The Best Places to Travel

Pleasant temperatures, fewer tourists, and shoulder-season deals make October a great time to travel to a large swath of the globe. Since you can’t go everywhere, we’ve pinpointed a few of the most optimal spots. Click the black buttons below to connect with a top local expert to plan an extraordinary trip for you. Here’s how to get a WOW trip.

For other months of the year, see Where To Go When.

GET A PERSONALIZED TRIP RECOMMENDATION


Italy: From the Cinque Terre to Puglia

Castello di Grinzane and village in Piedmont - one of the most famous wine regions of Italy

From Piedmont (shown here) in the north to Sicily in the south, Italy is lovely in October. Photo: Shutterstock

From the northern coastline to the boot of the heel—and just about everywhere in between—Italy is gorgeous in October. The weather is pleasant, hotels aren’t charging their peak-season rates, and you’ll enjoy a more authentic experience when the people dining beside you at the trattorias are locals, not tourists. On the Amalfi Coast, October is when the throngs of cruise-ship passengers have thinned, prices have dropped (a little), there’s plenty of sun, and the sea is still warm enough for swimming. In Tuscany, festivals for the olive and grape harvests abound, and the fall foliage is stunning. In Rome, you don’t need to wait in line for an outside table in the city’s iconic piazze.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Italy. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Burgundy, France

The castle of Chateauneuf-en-Auxois viewed from a barge.

A canal winds past the castle of Chateauneuf-en-Auxois. Photo: Timothy Baker

The chaos of harvest is over and the grapes are in—which means there’s still lots of activity in the wineries, since the wines are fermenting and the vinification is in full throe, but the winemakers themselves have a little more time to spend with visitors. It’s also the prettiest time: The leaves on the vines turn yellow and gold, and you realize why they call it the Côte d’Or (the golden slopes). And beyond the wines, it’s the most interesting time for seasonal produce: Mushrooms and squashes complement wild game on the menus of the local restaurants.
Read reviews of WOW trips to France. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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The Big Island, Hawaii

Wai'pio Valley Lookout, Hawaii

The Big Island is at its best, weatherwise, in October.

October is the choicest month for the Big Island, as the weather is driest—with daytime temperatures hovering around 85 degrees—and families aren’t traveling, so prices are lower. (The only thing it’s not an ideal time for is surfing.)
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Olympic National Park, Washington

A beautiful sunset on the ocean among the rocks, Cape flattery trail , Olympic Peninsula, Washington state

Sunsets are particularly spectacular on the Olympic Peninsula in October. Photo: Shutterstock

In October, the weather is usually pleasant across all three of the park’s environments: the Olympic Mountains, the temperate Hoh Rain Forest, and the rugged Pacific coastline. There may be snow at the high elevations and some rain lower down, but the waterfalls will be flowing, and the area is very lush. Sunsets also tend to be spectacular at this time of year.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Washington. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Madrid, Spain

Old cozy street in Madrid, Spain. Architecture and landmark of Madrid, postcard of Madrid

Cultural events pick up in fall in Madrid. Photo: Shutterstock

In September and October, the blistering summer heat abates and cultural events pick up, with festivals, theater shows, and concerts. It’s also much easier to get a room at one of the luxury hotels that has opened in the city in recent years, from the Four Seasons to the Rosewood to the Edition.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Madrid. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Austria’s Danube Valley

Wachau, Austria

October is harvest time in Austria’s vineyards. Photo: Austrian Tourist Board

October is at the end of peak season, there’s gorgeous fall scenery, and it’s harvest time in the vineyards, which means that the Heuriger (wine taverns) are especially fun and lively and you’ll probably get to try new wines. More important, especially for wine buffs, many of the smaller (and better) Heurigers aren’t open year-round, but they’re all open in October.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Austria. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Sicily and Malta

coast of Cefalu, Palermo Sicily Italy

The seas around Sicily are still warm enough for swimming in October. Photo: Shutterstock

October is harvest season in Sicily, which means fresh olives, almonds, and chestnuts—not to mention wild mushrooms, prickly pears, and carob—complement the island’s always-bountiful variety of culinary offerings. In nearby Malta, it is still warm enough for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, or a romantic overnight sail to the island of Gozo with nobody else around. Throughout the region, the air and sea temperatures are still inviting, flights and accommodations are less expensive than during the summer, and the fewer tourists mean you get a more intimate experience with the local people. Here’s what Wendy loved about Malta in October.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Sicily and Malta. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Croatia

aerial view of Hvar island and surrounding sea Croatia

On Hvar, it’s still swimsuit season but the party crowds have gone. Photo: Exeter International

Visit Croatia in the first half of October and you’ll find good weather, fewer tourists, and lower hotel prices than during peak season.
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Greece

sunset over sailboats Naxos Town Greece

Boats off the island of Naxos. Photo: Billie Cohen

Smart travelers will let the summer crowds die down, then go to Greece in the fall. As with Croatia, at that time of year you’ll find pleasant temperatures, quieter streets, and lower prices.
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Turkey

rainbow umbrellas hover over a street of shops and restaurants in Istanbul turkey

Enjoy a crowd-free stroll through Istanbul. Photo: Tim Baker

The fall shoulder season is a sweet spot for Turkey: Istanbul and Cappadocia are sunny and mild, while on the Aegean Coast, it’s warm but not sweltering, and the sea is calm.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Turkey. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Utah’s National Parks

Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument in Utah

Utah’s Highway 12 runs alongside the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument.

October is one of the best months to explore Utah’s stunning national parks: The temperatures are generally moderate and the crowds thin. An insider can show you the parks on foot, by vehicle, and even from a helicopter.
Read reviews of WOW trips to U.S. national parks. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Japan

A traditional onsen ryokan hot spring inn Japanese hotel in the middle of nature.

A traditional onsen ryokan. Photo: Shutterstock

Autumn in Kyoto brings cooler air and bright red maples (which last into November), magnificent to behold alongside Zen gardens and royal villas.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Japan. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Bali

Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, Hindu temple on Bratan lake landscape, one of famous tourist attraction in Bali, Indonesia - Image

Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, a Hindu temple on Bali’s Bratan Lake. Photo: Shutterstock

While October falls during the rainy season, showers are usually limited to a few hours in the afternoon or overnight. It’s also less busy than the high season, making hotel rates more attractive.
To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Northern Thailand

The view from Anantara Golden Triangle Resort in Chiang Rai, Thailand

Northern Thailand is lush and green in October. Photo: Anantara

Northern Thailand is at its best at the end of the green season: From mid-October to mid-December, the rains have diminished but the waterfalls and rivers are full, and the crowds and higher prices of the late-December to mid-January peak season have yet to arrive. The mountains are lush and green, and morning mists hanging in the valleys send shivers up your spine. (Bangkok is a year-round destination, and short bursts of rain can easily be dodged in the city.)
Read reviews of WOW trips to Thailand. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Northern Chile and Argentina

the red sand of Chile's Atacama desert with tall mountains in the distance

The Atacama Desert pairs well with Argentina, or even Easter Island, in October. Photo: Awasi

While both the Atacama Desert in Chile and the region around Salta, Argentina, are year-round destinations, October and November see fewer visitors than other times of year—leaving your vistas of these wide-open landscapes largely free of other travelers. (These are also excellent months to hop a flight to Easter Island, when the place is nearly empty and the weather ideal.)
Read reviews of WOW trips to Chile and Argentina. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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China

October sees the best weather in Beijing (shown here) and across a wide swath of China.

China is huge, of course, and has a wide array of weather patterns, depending on location and elevation. But for a classic China itinerary, October is hard to beat: Skies are blue in Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an, and temperatures are so agreeable you won’t need heat or air-conditioning.
Read reviews of WOW trips to China. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Oman

Dhow boat Cruise in Arabian Peninsula, boat on blue water with desert mountains in background

A dhow cruise on the Arabian Peninsula in Oman. Photo: Shutterstock

From mid-September through October, Oman’s weather is perfect: It’s not too hot in the desert and not too chilly in the mountains.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Oman. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Mongolia

An eagle hunter on horseback in Mongolia holding an eagle

An eagle hunter in Mongolia. Photo: Chris Rainier/Nomadic Expeditions

October is when you can attend the one-of-a-kind Golden Eagle Festival—a colorful celebration of a centuries-old Kazakh hunting tradition in the Altai Mountains. When the festival was founded in 1999, only 40 families still hunted with eagles; today more than 400 do so, and many locals rely on the income they earn during the event. Our Trusted Travel Expert can even arrange for you to have dinner with the competitors.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Mongolia. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Vietnam

Wonderful view of the East Gate (Hien Nhon Gate) to the Citadel and a moat surrounding the Imperial City with the Purple Forbidden City in Hue, Vietnam. Hue is a popular tourist destination of Asia.

October sees clear skies for exploring Hue’s historic landmarks. Photo: Shutterstock

Since the monsoons hit northern, central, and southern Vietnam at different times, weather across Vietnam varies widely. If your goal is to travel throughout the country, the driest months to visit are October and March. Fall is when you’ll find the best weather conditions in Ho Chi Minh City and the south.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Vietnam. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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The Seychelles

Maia Luxury Resort, Anse Louis Beach, Seychelles

October brings a mix of good weather and value. Photo: Maia Luxury Resort/Lindsey Wallace

October represents a nice balance of great weather (not too hot and little to no rain) and great value (since many of the resorts still have low-season rates). It’s also the best month for snorkeling and diving with whale sharks.
Read reviews of WOW trips to the Seychelles. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Other Smart Options This Month

Click on any of the destinations below to find out why October is a good time to go.

North America

California Coast

Hawaii: Maui

Jackson Hole and the Grand Tetons National Park (first half of the month)

Mexico: Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Maya (all for the second half of the month)

Yellowstone National Park (first half of the month)

 

Central and South America

Bolivia

Brazilian Amazon

Buenos Aires

Colombia: Bogotá

Costa Rica: fishing, wildlife and turtle hatching

Patagonia (second half of the month)

Peru

 

Europe

Canal Barge Cruises

Czech Republic

England: Cotswolds and London

France: Paris

Greece: Athens

Hungary

Ireland: Killarney and County Kerry

Portugal, including The Algarve

Romania (first half of the month)

Scotland

Spain: Andalusia

 

Asia

India: Agra, Delhi, Mumbai, and Trekking in the Himalayas

Bhutan

China: Yunnan Province

Laos

Nepal

 

Africa and Middle East

Botswana

Madagascar

Morocco: Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains

South Africa: Cape Town and the Winelands

 

Australia and Pacific

Australia’s Great Barrier Reef

French Polynesia (first half of the month)

New Zealand: Queenstown hiking and cycling

 

Be a smarter traveler: Sign up for Wendy’s weekly newsletter to stay in the know. Read real travelers’ reviews, then use the black CONTACT buttons on Wendy’s WOW List to reach out to the right local fixer for your trip.

Wild caribbean beach of Manzanillo at Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica

Where to Go in January: The Best Places to Travel

Ring in the New Year at home, then get on a plane: Prices are at their peak through New Year’s Day, but they drop later that first week in January. Below are some of your smartest January trip options. Click the black buttons below to connect with a top local expert to plan an extraordinary trip for you. Here’s how to get a WOW trip.

For other months of the year, see Where To Go When.

GET A PERSONALIZED TRIP RECOMMENDATION


Costa Rica

Monteverde Costa Rica

Dry weather and good availability await those who visit Costa Rica in January. Photo: Shutterstock

January is one of the nicest times of the year weatherwise for a winter escape, right in the middle of the Costa Rican dry season. And it is often the only time in the high season that you can plan a last-minute trip and still have your first choice of the top properties.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Costa Rica here, here, and here. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Belize

Tiny islands, or cayes, dot the waters off Belize’s Caribbean coast.

Nonstop flights to Belize take off from several U.S. cities that are only about three hours away. Once you’re there you can explore world-class coral reefs, visit uncrowded Mayan ruins, learn to scuba dive (as Wendy’s son did), fish for 100-pound tarpon (which kept her husband busy), and laze beside sparkling Caribbean waters—or you can charter your own private yacht, enjoying fabulous snorkeling, sunbathing, kayaking, and plenty of distance from everyone except your captain and first mate.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Belize. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Mexico’s Colonial Cities

Guanajuato's historic center is full of colonial-era mansions and plazas.

Guanajuato’s historic center is full of colonial-era mansions and plazas. Photo: Journey Mexico

Mexico is much more than a one-dimensional beach destination. Sure, fabulous oceanfront resorts and sumptuous private villas abound on its long coastlines. But the country is also home to charming colonial towns such as Guanajuato, Morelia, and Oaxaca, captivating pre-Columbian ruins (especially in Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas), and a vibrant scene in Mexico City—and in January, these destinations have ideal temperatures and little rain.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Mexico. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Nicaragua’s Coastline and Mountains

Nicaragua mountains

Nicaragua’s interior and coastline are both in their prime in January. Photo: TPS Dave/Pixabay

In January, the country is lush and green, there is no rain, and the breezes keep temperatures in the high 80s during the day on the coast—perfect for chilling out by the ocean—and in the 70s in the mountains—ideal for hikes in the cloud forest. Despite its reputation from decades past, Nicaragua is one of the safest countries in the Americas, with a very low crime rate. It’s not a democracy, but the only danger is for those in active political opposition to the government.
To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Certain Western U.S. National Parks

snowy scene of hot spring steaming in winter in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park in winter: beautiful landscapes, no crowds. Photo: tpsdave/Pixabay

From snowshoeing in Yellowstone to hiking in Joshua Tree, adventures abound in our national parks—even in the middle of winter. If you’re lucky, you might even get to see the Grand Canyon with a magical dusting of snow, or have a view of Yosemite Falls all to yourself.
Read reviews of WOW trips to U.S. national parks. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Italy’s Cultural Capitals

Florence, Italy. Photo: Shutterstock

Florence is just as gorgeous—and far less busy—in January. Photo: Shutterstock

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with Rome, Florence, and Milan in January. Temperatures will typically be in the high 40s and 50s during the day, but plan on bundling up to fit in with the locals. Perhaps a new pair of leather gloves to complete your Italian look? They’ll be on sale. Italy generally has only two times during the year when they extend sconti (discounts) in retail shops: January and July. You can find deals at both boutique shops and international-brand stores after the holiday craziness, and you won’t have to fight the crowds so common at other times of the year. Enjoy Rome’s decadently rich hot chocolate as an afternoon treat, or post up next to a funghi (the mushroom-shaped outdoor heaters) and dine al fresco in one of Florence’s beautifully lit piazzas.
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Argentina and Patagonia

vineyards with snow-capped mountains in background Mendoza Argentina

Summertime in Mendoza means green grapevines with a backdrop of snowcapped Andes. Photo: Shutterstock

January is prime season for hiking in Patagonia, which gets just a bit quieter after the holiday rush. Meanwhile, at the foothills of the Andes, the grapevines in Mendoza sit heavy with ripening fruit. Temperatures hit the 90s in Buenos Aires, so the locals hit the beach—leaving the city easy to navigate, with so little traffic.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Argentina. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Australia

boat sailing in water on Sydney Harbour Australia with famous bridge in background

January is the summer sailing season on Sydney Harbour. Photo: Tourism Australia

Sydney’s summer months (December to February) bring beach weather, as well as festivals and harborside celebrations: After the world-renowned New Year’s Eve celebrations comes the Sydney Festival, a three-week celebration of the arts culminating with Australia Day on January 26. It’s also the right time to take a surfing lesson at Bondi Beach, go sailing in Sydney Harbour, hike waterside trails, picnic on city parklands, catch an outdoor movie screening or concert, or attend one of the city’s many professional surfing, tennis, cricket, and rugby competitions. (Remember that prices are also at their peak in summer, so book accommodations and tickets early, before they sell out.)
Read reviews of WOW trips to Australia. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Brazil

Sugarloaf Mountain and Botafogo Neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro by Sunset with Full Moon in the Sky

Rio de Janeiro is lively day and night in January. Photo: Shutterstock

January is the best time to visit Rio—assuming you don’t mind temperatures that regularly hit 105 degrees: It’s the height of summer, Cariocas (Rio residents) are at their most relaxed, and the nightlife is at its peak.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Brazil. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Burj Al Arab hotel and beach in Dubai

In January, Dubai is still warm enough for beaches, and also hosts a shopping festival. Photo: Pixabay

January is the cooler season—which in this part of the world means temperatures in the high 70s and low 80s. Designers descend upon Dubai for the Shopping Festival, when shops and boutiques offer discounts all month long.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Dubai and Abu Dhabi. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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New Zealand

Milford Sound, in New Zealand from a touristic aircraft.

The most satisfying approach to Milford Sound is on foot, along the famous Milford Track. Photo: Shutterstock

January sees warm weather and long days in New Zealand, from top to bottom: You can sunbathe in a hidden cove in the Bay of Islands, hike the iconic Milford Track, or helicopter-hop among snowy glaciers.
Read reviews of WOW trips to New Zealand here and here. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Thailand

small boat on beach of Koh Phangan island Thailand

Islands like Koh Phangan are at their best starting in mid-January. Photo: Journeys Within

Southern Thailand is ideal from mid-January through March, when the oceans are still relatively calm, and sunny skies and cooler temperatures prevail before the heat returns in April. Bangkok, meanwhile, is a year-round destination: There’s always great food and off-the-beaten-path adventures to uncover, and short bursts of rain can easily be dodged while in the city.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Thailand. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Sri Lanka

Adams peak also known as Sri pada in Sri Lanka over the Maskeliya reservoir and tea plantations

January is the calm between two busy travel periods in Sri Lanka. Photo: Shutterstock

The weather in mid to late January is delightful—spring-like temperatures and blue skies—and it’s a quieter period sandwiched between two busy times: Christmas/New Year’s and Chinese New Year.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Sri Lanka. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Other Smart Options This Month

Click on any of the destinations below to find out why January is a good time to go.

North America

Florida: Disney World, Orlando

Hawaii: Oahu (whale watching)

 

Caribbean and Central America

British Virgin Islands yacht charter

Cuba

Panama

 

South America

Brazil: Salvador and Trancoso

Ecuador: Galápagos

 

Europe

France: Paris apartment rentals

Iceland: northern lights

Italy: Rome

Norway: northern lights and winter activities

 

Asia

Cambodia

China: Yunnan Province

India: Mumbai and Rajasthan

Nepal’s lower elevations

The Philippines

 

Cruises

Africa Cruises

Antarctica Cruises

 

 

Be a smarter traveler: Sign up for Wendy’s weekly newsletter to stay in the know. Read real travelers’ reviews, then use the black CONTACT buttons on Wendy’s WOW List to reach out to the right local fixer for your trip.

Fakarava island in french polynesia with canoe on turquoise blue water

Where to Go in September: The Best Places to Travel

September is a smart month for many places around the world, thanks to fewer tourists and shoulder-season deals. Below are some of your wisest September trip options. Click the black buttons below to connect with a top local expert to plan an extraordinary trip for you. Here’s how to get a WOW trip.

For other months of the year, see Where To Go When.

GET A PERSONALIZED TRIP RECOMMENDATION


The Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon view of the watchtower.

Enjoy the vastness of the Grand Canyon—without the elbow-to-elbow crowds—in September. Photo: Mike Buchheit

After Labor Day, the Grand Canyon gets much quieter, prices fall from the highs of summer, and the weather is still pleasant.
Read reviews of WOW trips to U.S. national parks. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Tuscany

tractor harvesting grapes in a vineyard in Tuscany Italy

September is harvest season in Tuscany’s vineyards.

Come September, the vineyard-covered hills across much of Tuscany come alive for the vendemmia, or grape harvest. The rumble of small tractors rolling along the long rows of vines, the chattering of families and farm hands as they snip off individual clusters by hand, the tinkling of glasses and forks against plates as long tables are set up outdoors for everyone to take a break for lunch al fresco…these are the sights and sounds of autumn in Chianti, Montalcino, Montepulciano, and the rest of Tuscany’s wine country.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Tuscany. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Mexico’s Colonial Heartland

Mexican national symbol among colonial buildings on Independence Day.

An Independence Day light display in Mexico City. Photo: Shutterstock

Mexico City and the country’s colonial heartland (San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, Puebla, Queretaro, Michoacan) come alive for independence celebrations, which fall on September 15 and 16. Throughout the month of September, cities and plazas in the region transform with patriotic fervor, commemorating the start of the Mexican War for Independence in 1810. Visitors will find a jubilant atmosphere, and the festivals and parades typically bring with them some of Mexico’s most traditional street snacks.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Mexico. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Norway

You don’t have to visit Norway during its darkest winter days to see the northern lights.

September is the sweet spot for Norway, when it’s still warm enough to spend your days exploring the fjords but the night sky gets dark enough that you have a good chance of catching the Northern Lights.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Norway. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Mediterranean Coastlines and Islands

colorful boats in Marsaxlokk Harbour, Malta

Think Mediterranean spots—like this on on Malta—for September. Photo: Exclusively Malta

In September, the Mediterranean region is still sunny (but not too hot) and it’s warm enough to go swimming—and yet the crowds have thinned because kids are back in school. From the Algarve in Portugal to the French Riviera to the Cinque Terre in Italy to Turkey’s Aegean coast, the weather is great for strolling through villages and indulging in the local culinary treats. Don’t forget about islands like Corsica, Sicily, or Malta, either: On the latter, there are village feasts happening in September, with parades, concerts, and even fireworks.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Portugal’s Algarve, France’s Riviera, Sicily, Malta and Turkey. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Ireland

Mullaghmore Head, County Sligo, Ireland ocean view and green land

Mullaghmore Head, County Sligo, Ireland. Photo: Alison Crummy/Tourism Ireland

September and October, when the summer crowds have gone but relatively warm weather remains, is one of the best times to visit. It certainly might rain—this is Ireland, after all—but that just means you’ll have rainbows! In September, which is considered high season, leaves start turning, ushering in fall.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Ireland. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Portugal: Porto and the Douro River Valley

Grape harvest in the Douro Valley, Portugal

It’s harvest time in the Douro Valley, Portugal. Photo: Porto Tourism

Late September and early October are typically the time for the grape harvest in the Douro. You can participate by picking grapes (more fun than it sounds) or—better yet—stomping the fruit à la I Love Lucy with your own two feet. There are also some amazing hikes just north of Porto, which are at their best in fall when the weather and landscape are starting to change; options range from easy strolls to expert-level routes.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Portugal. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Germany

Bamberg Bavaria, Germany. Photo: Claudia Schwenger

September is festival season in Germany. Photo: Claudia Schwenger

September hits the sweet spot of pleasant weather and minimal crowds, and there are many charming, open-air harvest festivals taking place. Plus, there’s Oktoberfest, most of which actually falls during September.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Germany. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park in fall, Wyoming.

The aspens near Grand Teton National Park are ablaze in fall. Photo: NPS

From mid-September to mid-October, the aspens are golden, the area isn’t crowded, and hotels often discount their rates; plus, the grizzly and black bears are more visible as they stock up prior to hibernation, and the elk are bugling. While the weather can be cooler, it’s a good excuse to take advantage of the fireplace in your room.
Read reviews of WOW trips to U.S. national parks. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Cruises: Alaska, Eastern Canada, Mediterranean

Star Breeze

Cruise fares often drop as summer gives way to fall. Photo: Windstar Cruises

As the summer winds down, you can often find the lowest pricing on cruises in iconic destinations like Alaska and the Mediterranean. For those seeking a getaway that’s closer to home, many ships sail routes through New England and Eastern Canada, stopping in places like Boston, Nova Scotia, and Quebec City.
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The Islands of French Polynesia: Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Beyond

The Brando Resort, French Polynesia

The quintessential white-sand beaches and crystalline waters of French Polynesia. Photo: Brando Resort

Humpback whales approach the islands (mostly Rurutu and Moorea) to give birth and feed from August to October. The waters hold a lot of food that fatten up the babies before they head to the Antarctic. If the whales are calm and the weather is good, you can even snorkel with them and listen to the sounds they use to communicate with each other; it’s really quite an amazing experience.
Read reviews of WOW trips to French Polynesia. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Australia’s Kangaroo Island

kangaroos on kangaroo island Australia

Kangaroo Island is a top destination for animal lovers. Photo: South Australian Tourism Commission

Kangaroo Island is Australia’s own Galapagos, a time capsule of the region’s native plants and animals, largely undisturbed by civilization for thousands of years. Kangaroos, wallabies, echidna, koalas, dolphins, sea lions, fur seals, and scores of birds can be seen in their natural habitats all year round; however, antipodal spring is a particularly special time to visit, with clear and warm days returning, wildflowers blooming, and joey kangaroos emerging from their mothers’ pouches. (It’s also before the Australian school holidays hit and families start arriving in October.)
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Trancoso, Brazil

The beach lounge at Villas de Trancoso Brazil

Trancoso has a chill vibe in September. Photo: Villas de Trancoso

If you are after peace and quiet, Trancoso’s off-season (i.e., June through September) is pure bliss: Temperatures are still in the high 70s to 80s, and you will often have mile upon mile of palm-tree-backed beaches all to yourself.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Brazil. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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South African Safaris

Elephants, Singita Kruger, South Africa

An elephant family at Singita Kruger, Kruger National Park.

September is glorious in South Africa. The winter chill has left, and spring is on its way. The grasses that grew high after the rainy season have been chomped down, leaving the animals in full view. Cape Town is warming up, and the rains have more or less gone for good. Whales can be seen off the coast, the vineyards are green, and safaris are spectacular throughout the parks and reserves.
Read reviews of WOW trips to South Africa. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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North India

Agra Fort - Medieval Indian fort made of red sandstone and marble with view of dome at sunrise. View of Taj Mahal at a distance as seen from Agra Fort.

Clear skies—which can be a rarity in India—are likeliest in September. Photo: Shutterstock

September is ideal in Northern India: In Delhi, the monsoon rains have given way to clear skies and pleasant temperatures. At the Taj Mahal, you’ll find the fewest people and the best photographic conditions. It’s also a good time for trekking, with fall color in the Himalaya.
Read reviews of WOW trips to India. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Uzbekistan

View over the mausoleums and domes of the historical cemetery of Shahi Zinda through an arched gate, Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

September’s mild weather makes it ideal for exploring the ancient city of Samarkand. Photo: Shutterstock

After the summer heat, Uzbekistan’s weather is once again comfortable for touring the ancient cities of Bukhara, Samarkand, and Khiva, and for hiking in the mountains or camel riding in the Kizil Kum Desert. Click here to read about the trip Wendy and her family took to Uzbekistan.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Uzbekistan. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Other Smart Options This Month

Click on any of the destinations below to find out why September is an ideal time to go.

North America and Caribbean

Caribbean yacht charter (Windward Islands: Grenada, St. Vincent and the Grenadines)

The California Coast

Maui

Newfoundland and Labrador

Yellowstone

 

Central and South America

Argentina: Skiing in Mendoza

Bolivia

Brazilian Amazon

Chile: Atacama Desert

Colombia: Bogota

Ecuador: Quito

Peru

 

Europe

Arctic

Croatia

Czech Republic: second half of the month

European Canal Barges

Hungary: second half of the month

Iceland: northern lights

The Italian and Swiss Alps

Italy: The Dolomites, Florence, Lakes Region, Puglia, RomeUmbria, and Venice

London

Paris

Romania

Scotland

Spain: Andalusia and Madrid

Switzerland

Turkey: Cappadocia and Istanbul

 

Asia

Bali

Beijing

Bhutan

Mongolia

Nepal

Seychelles

Thailand: Bangkok

 

Africa and Middle East

Botswana

East Africa Safaris

Jerusalem

Madagascar

Morocco: second half of the month

Oman: second half of the month

Rwanda: Gorilla Trekking

Zambia

Zimbabwe

 

Australia and Pacific

Great Barrier Reef

New Zealand: Queenstown

Papua New Guinea: Trekking

 

 

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beach and rocks at Anse Source d'Argent beach Seychelles

Where to Go in August: The Best Places to Travel

A lot of people ask us where to go in August: It’s one of the few times of year when they can take a week or two off from work, yet it’s also when so many places are hot, crowded, filled with tourists, devoid of locals, and priced at their most expensive. Below are some of your smartest August trip options. Click the black buttons below to connect with a top local expert to plan an extraordinary trip for you. Here’s how to get a WOW trip.

For other months of the year, see Where To Go When.

GET A PERSONALIZED TRIP RECOMMENDATION


Alaska Small-Ship Expedition Cruises

Panoramic view of Glacier Bay national Park. John Hopkins Glacier with Mount Orville and Mount Wilbur in the background. Alaska

Glacier Bay National Park, with Mount Orville and Mount Wilbur in the background. Photo: Shutterstock

August is especially inviting for a small-ship expedition cruise to Alaska, as daylight remains long, wildlife is plentiful, and the glaciers are uniquely illuminated by the late summer sun. Stay up late at this time of year and you may even be treated to the gorgeous green glow of the northern lights.
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Canada’s Maritime Provinces, including Newfoundland

Newfoundland scenery

This is typical Newfoundland scenery. Photo: Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism

Ever since Wendy went there one August several years ago, she’s been urging other East Coasters to flee to Newfoundland in late summer, as an antidote to the crowds, heat, and beach traffic that choke the U.S. Eastern Seaboard. You get a foreign island with dramatic sweeping landscapes, lighthouses and fishing villages galore, roads to yourself (well, you plus a few moose), a distinct local culture, and incredibly friendly people, all without having to schlep too far from home. (You can fly there via Toronto or Halifax from many U.S. hubs.) A must on any Newfoundland itinerary is the Fogo Island Inn, a fascinating five-star philanthropic experiment that Wendy says has the most soul of any hotel she’s ever seen. Read why Wendy loved it there.  
Read reviews of WOW trips to Newfoundland and the Maritime Provinces. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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British Columbia, Western Canada

Heli-hiking at Kinuseo Falls in Monkman Provincial Park

Heli-hiking at Kinuseo Falls in Monkman Provincial Park, British Columbia. Photo: Hello BC

August days are usually clear and sunny (ideal for seaplane and helicopter flights). It’s prime time for kayaking, hiking, fishing, and river rafting, not to mention bear- and whale-watching. August is when Wendy chose to take her family to Whistler (see We Had the Best Family Trip in Whistler and We Never Put on Skis and I Can’t Believe We Did This: Mountain Climbing in Whistler), as well as to the Discovery Islands (see 6 Otherworldly Escapes That Feel More Remote Than They Are).
Read reviews of WOW trips to British Columbia. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Iceland

Brook and family hike the path from Hellnar to Arnarstapi on Iceland’s Snæfellsness Peninsula.

Hiking on Iceland’s Snæfellsness Peninsula. Photo: Ryan Damm

Iceland’s high season starts to taper off in the second half of the month, meaning that you’ll find fewer crowds, more hotel availability, and somewhat better prices—but the weather is still pleasant for exploring the country’s awesome landscapes.
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London

A rib ride on the Thames River is a fun way to see waterfront sights such as the London Eye.

A rib ride on the Thames River is a fun way to see waterfront sights such as the London Eye.

England’s capital is a smart choice in August: It’s a short flight (relatively speaking), it’s not too hot or crowded, and London hotels that typically cater to business travelers have reduced rates (and many of the city’s museums are free). London in August is such a smart move that that’s when Wendy took her own family there—and you can read what one of her young sons had to say about it in Do’s and Don’ts For Your Trip To London.
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Austria

Wachau Austria view of village and green field

Summer in Austria is all about beautiful weather, long days, and festivals. Photo: Austria Tourism Board

The days are relatively long, the weather is great, and there are music festivals—especially opera—all over the country. Salzburg’s six-week classical music festival is one of the biggest in Europe.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Austria. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Great Barrier Reef Islands, Australia

aerial view of the Great Barrier Reef from an airplane

The Great Barrier Reef, seen from above. Photo: Tourism Whitsundays

August brings clear blue skies, good visibility for divers and snorkelers, and calm seas (the wind usually dies down at the end of July). It’s also a great time to view wildlife: dwarf minke whales visiting the northern reefs, manta rays off Lady Elliott Island in the region’s southern zone, and humpback whales—including Migaloo, the world’s only known all-white humpback—on their annual migration to Antarctica.
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Yellowstone National Park

Grand Prismatic Spring view at Yellowstone National Park

Grand Prismatic Spring view at Yellowstone National Park. Photo: Shutterstock

In August you’ll find warm days and cool nights, wildflowers in bloom, and hiking trails mostly free of snow. Do keep in mind that this is the busiest time in Yellowstone, with prices to match, and skies may be hazy from wildfires. Things are noticeably quieter during the last week of the month, since families have headed home and retirees wait until after Labor Day to visit.
Read reviews of WOW trips to U.S. national parks. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Washington State: The San Juan Islands

Lime Kiln Point Lighthouse, Haro Straight, San Juan Islands, Washington

Lime Kiln Point Lighthouse, Haro Straight, San Juan Islands, Washington. Photo: Shutterstock

August brings the clearest skies to the San Juans, making it one of the most popular months to visit the region.
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Jackson Hole and the Grand Tetons

kayaking in jackson lake grand teton national park

Grand Teton National Park is full of outdoor activities in the summer, including kayaking on Jackson Lake. Photo: Billie Cohen

July and August bring the best weather of the summer, with warm days and cool nights; wildflowers are blooming, hiking trails are usually free of snow, and rivers should be clear of spring runoff, making for perfect fly-fishing conditions. All other summer activities, such as biking, rock climbing, rafting, and horseback riding, are easily available. (Skies may be hazy from area wildfires in August.)
Read reviews of WOW trips to U.S. national parks. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Kenya for the Great Migration

zebras drinking from a stream in the great migration of animals in Kenya

August and September are the best times to see the annual migration, in which more than a million animals pass through Kenya’s Masai Mara Game Reserve. Photo: Shutterstock

The best time to see the Great Migration—one of the grandest wildlife spectacles on Earth, with more than two million wildebeest and zebra on the move and predators lurking nearby—is July through September, and the best place to be is in the Masai Mara National Reserve. There are more than 15 different river crossings in the Masai Mara (bottlenecks along the migration route where the animals must avoid hungry crocodiles and lions), with great names like Smelly Crossing, Rekero Crossing, Football Crossing, Helicopter Crossing, and Double Crossing. You need to be patient, and in the right location at the right time of day. To increase your odds, consider staying at two camps in different locations.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Kenya here, here, and here. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Costa Rica

Monteverde Costa Rica

Think you shouldn’t travel during Costa Rica’s rainy season? Think again. Photo: Shutterstock

Mid-June through midAugust is the middle of the rainy season, but prices are relatively low, everything is lush and green, and weather patterns are predictable: You get beautiful sunny mornings for adventure activities, and the strong showers in the afternoon give you time to rest while listening to the tropical rain that cools things off for the evening.
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The Seychelles

beach and rocks at Anse Source d'Argent beach Seychelles

Chez Batista Villas, Seychelles. Photo: Torsten Dickmann – STB

August is one of the sunniest months in the Seychelles. Rain can occur at any time of the year, but storms are typically short and isolated. Bear in mind that seas can be a little rougher from May to September.
Read reviews of WOW trips to the Seychelles. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Rwanda and Uganda for Gorilla Trekking

gorilla group in the jungle, Uganda

The rewards of gorilla trekking in Uganda. Photo: EXPLORE

The best time for tracking the gorillas in Rwanda and Uganda is June through September, when it’s cool and there is less precipitation (but remember, this is still the rainforest, and storms can hit any day).
Read reviews of WOW trips to Rwanda and Uganda here and here. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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New Zealand

snow covered Clarke Glacier, Queenstown, New Zealand with a red helicopter on it

August is prime time for skiing in New Zealand. Photo: Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters

Summer skiing, anyone? August is the top month for skiing in New Zealand: You’ll get the most reliable heli-skiing conditions in August—and combining that with a tropical island like Fiji can be fun.
Read reviews of WOW trips to New Zealand. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Cambodia and Angkor Wat

silhouette Sunrise Fisherman fishing on the boat at Tonle Sap lake Cambodia

Tonle Sap during sunrise. Photo: Shutterstock

Late May through early September is Cambodia’s green season. It rains two days out of three, but the mornings are almost always sunny and bright, with rain clouds gathering toward the late afternoon; get out of bed early to explore when Cambodians are most active ahead of the midday heat, and you’ll enjoy far fewer crowds and vibrantly green rice paddies. Plus, the money you save on shoulder-season hotel rates you can spend on massages, world-class golf, and fine food.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Cambodia. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Other Smart Options This Month

Click on any of the destinations below to find out why August is a good time to go.

North America and Caribbean

Caribbean yacht charter: Bahamas and Windward Islands (Grenada, St. Vincent and the Grenadines)

Washington: Seattle

 

Central and South America

Bolivia

Brazil: Rio de Janeiro, Trancoso, and the Amazon

Colombia: Bogota

Ecuador: Quito and the Andes

Peru

 

Europe

Croatia

European Canal Barges

Italy: The Dolomites

Norway

Scotland

Switzerland: hiking in the Alps

 

Asia and Pacific

French Polynesia: Tahiti

India: Agra and Ladakh

Mongolia: camel trekking

Nepal: Upper Mustang

 

Africa

Botswana

Madagascar

Zambia

Zimbabwe (second half of the month)

 


 

 

 

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Beautiful Trancoso beach near Porto Seguro in state of Bahia, Brazil

Where to Go in July: The Best Places to Travel

Even in the peak summer travel month of July, there are still plenty of places in the world where you can escape the heat, crowds, and beach-bound traffic jams. Below are some of your smartest July trip options. Click the black buttons below to connect with a top local expert to plan an extraordinary trip for you. Here’s how to get a WOW trip.

For other months of the year, see Where To Go When.

GET A PERSONALIZED TRIP RECOMMENDATION


British Columbia, Western Canada

bear looking at camera on Nakina River in British Columbia canada

Summer is a good time for bear-viewing—but hopefully not this close. Photo: Entree Canada

The days are usually clear and sunny (ideal for seaplane and helicopter flights) and the seasonal wilderness lodges, which typically open in mid-May, have been operating long enough to work out any kinks. The summer months are also prime time for kayaking, hiking, fishing, and river rafting, not to mention bear- and whale-watching.
Read reviews of WOW trips to British Columbia. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons

Wildflowers blooming in Grand Teton National Park

Wildflowers blooming in Grand Teton National Park.

You’ll find warm days and cool nights, wildflowers in bloom, and hiking trails mostly free of snow. In the Tetons, rivers should be clear of spring runoff, making for perfect fly-fishing conditions. And it’s prime time for a huge variety of activities—biking, rock climbing, rafting, kayaking, horseback riding. Summer can be busy, but there are creative ways to beat the crowds in national parks.
Read reviews of WOW trips to U.S. national parks. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Canada’s Atlantic Provinces, including Newfoundland

Breaching humpback whale, Newfoundland

July is a prime month for spotting humpback whales in Newfoundland. Photo: Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism

Ever since Wendy visited one summer several years ago, she’s been urging other East Coasters to flee to Newfoundland in summer, as an antidote to the crowds, heat, and beach traffic that choke the U.S. Eastern Seaboard. You get a foreign island with dramatic sweeping landscapes, lighthouses and fishing villages galore, roads to yourself (well, you plus a few moose), a distinct local culture, and incredibly friendly people, all without having to schlep too far from home. (You can fly there via Toronto or Halifax from many U.S. hubs.) A must on any Newfoundland itinerary is the Fogo Island Inn, a fascinating five-star philanthropic experiment that Wendy says has the most soul of any hotel she’s ever seen. Read why Wendy loved it there.  
Read reviews of WOW trips to Newfoundland. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Norway

Reine, Lofoten, Norway. The village of Reine under a sunny, blue sky, with the typical rorbu houses. View from the top

The village of Reine in the Lofoten Islands, Norway. Photo: Shutterstock

July brings Norway’s best weather. The days are endless, with almost no night, the nature is at its peak, the waterfalls are still large, and you still have some snowcapped mountains in the fjord area.
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Bora Bora, Tahiti, and French Polynesia

Fakarava island in french polynesia with canoe on turquoise blue water

French Polynesia is pleasantly breezy in July. Photo: Julius Silver/Pixabay

The Heiva festival falls during July, with local contests on outer islands early in the month and a culmination of ceremonies in Papeete, Tahiti around the 20th. July also falls during the “Trade Wind” season, when the breezes keep temperatures in the low 80s and the humidity is down as well. It still rains, but in 30- to 40-minute bursts, and then the sun comes out again (a cycle that can repeat a few times through each afternoon and evening). The lagoons can be a bit choppy, but are still great for kite surfing, catamarans, or outrigger canoes with a sail and, of course, sailing.
Read reviews of WOW trips to French Polynesia. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Iceland

green hills and waterfalls by Kirkjufell mountain,Iceland

Kirkjufell mountain, in northern Iceland, rises to a knife’s edge—and makes for great photos. Photo: Shutterstock

In July Iceland sees about 20 hours of daylight, so you can pack your trip full of the outdoor pursuits that the country is famous for. It’s also when the weather is mildest—which here means average temperatures in the mid-50s—and the roads, hiking trails, and lava caves aren’t blocked by snow.
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Belize

A row of thatched palapas on golden sand on the tiny island of Rendezvous Caye in the Belize Barrier Reef, off the coast of Belize, Central America

Rendezvous Caye is one of many relaxation spots on Belize’s barrier reef. Photo: Shutterstock

While July technically falls during the country’s rainy season, the showers are sporadic and typically not a daily occurrence. Hotel rates are lower at this time of year, and it’s also the beginning of lobster season—so you can fish by day and enjoy the freshest possible crustaceans for dinner that very evening. Wendy and her family have enjoyed two idyllic trips to Belize in July/early August, including one when her son got scuba-certified right on the dock of their boutique resort.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Belize. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Mexico’s Riviera Maya

View from the beach in a quiet day at the Mayan ruins in Tulum, Mexico.

July brings quiet days like this to the Mayan ruins in Tulum. Photo: Journey Mexico

July is technically the rainy season in the Riviera Maya—but it often brings a pause from the spikes in precipitation that come in June and from August through November. Between the sporadic showers, you can enjoy fewer crowds at the archaeological sites, lush tropical foliage that has been revived by the summer rains, and lower rates at the region’s hotels. Plus, July presents the opportunity to swim with the whale sharks that congregate off the cost of Cancun at this time of year.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Mexico. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Australia’s Great Barrier Reef

Great Barrier Reef aerial view

Whales are found in abundance on the Great Barrier Reef in July. Photo: Shutterstock

July is the perfect time for whale-watching on the Great Barrier Reef: You can go swimming or snorkeling with dwarf minke whales, and cruise alongside humpbacks on their annual migration. This being the southern-hemisphere winter, both the air and water temperatures are in the 70s, with plenty of sun and almost no rain.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Australia. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Trancoso, Brazil

Beautiful Trancoso beach near Porto Seguro in state of Bahia, Brazil

July brings peace and quiet to Trancoso’s beaches. Photo: Shutterstock

If you are after a taste of the international party scene that put Trancoso on the map, you need to go from January through March. But if you are after peace and quiet, July is pure bliss: Temperatures are still in the high 70s to 80s, and you will often have mile upon mile of palm-tree-backed beaches all to yourself.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Brazil. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Switzerland

Couple at hiking in the area of Zermatt with the Matterhorn in the background.

Hiking in Zermatt with the Matterhorn in the distance. Photo: Switzerland Tourism/Ivo Scholz

July brings the best conditions for hiking in the Alps. In the Appenzell, you can chat with farmers in their fields; near Interlaken, ride the gondola to the summit of the Jungfrau. After a few days on the trails, rest your legs and soak up the Italian-influenced culture on the shores of Lake Maggiore.
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Alaska

Guests explore on Zodiac in Southeast Alaska, Tracy Arm, calving ice

Guests spot calving ice while exploring in Southeast Alaska. Photo: Lindblad Expeditions/Michael S. Nolan

Until mid-July the mountains are still covered in snow, the flowers are emerging, and the animals have just given birth, so you might see moose out with their calves, as well as just-born fur-seal pups. Plus, the locals are happy that winter is over and that visitors have returned. Temperatures are typically in the mid-60s during the days (which are the longest days of the year) and you’re likely to see active, calving glaciers. All in all, it’s a great time to see the 49th state via a land-based stay, a cruise ship, or a smaller expedition-style vessel.
Read reviews of WOW land trips to Alaska here, and WOW cruises of Alaska here and here. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

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Glacier National Park

Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier National Park, Montana

The Going-to-the-Sun Road only opens for a few months every year. Photo: NPS/Tim Rains

High up on the border between Montana and Canada, Glacier has a very short season: The entire Going-to-the-Sun Road (the park’s star attraction, cut into an immense, craggy cliff with amazing vistas) is only open for a few months, typically from late June to October. In July, there will still be snow, but the weather is pleasant. These days, sadly, you’ll find only a few dozen glaciers left from the 150 that were here back in 1850. There are more than 700 miles of hiking trails to choose from, some of which skirt waterfalls and glacial lakes.
Read reviews of WOW trips to U.S. national parks. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

Start a trip to Glacier National Park

East Africa Safaris

great migration, wildebeest, mara river, masai mara Kenya

Wildebeest crossing the Mara River during the Great Migration in Kenya’s Masai Mara. Photo: Hippo Creek Safaris

The best time to see the Great Migration—one of the grandest wildlife spectacles on Earth, with more than two million wildebeest and zebra on the move and predators lurking nearby—is the dry season, since the animals come out looking for water sources. The best place to be is in the Masai Mara National Reserve: There are more than 15 different river crossings—bottlenecks along the migration route where the animals must avoid hungry crocodiles and lions.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Kenya and Tanzania here, here, and here. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

Start a trip to Kenya and Tanzania

New Zealand’s South Island

Fiordland Lake, helicopter

You can easily reach Fiordland Lake by helicopter. Photo: Jean-Michel Jefferson

In the southern-hemisphere winter, Queenstown is a snow-capped beauty, and there are not many people around; it is cold but heavenly, and a great time for snowshoeing and touring Fiordland by helicopter.
Read reviews of WOW trips to New Zealand. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

Start a trip to New Zealand

The Arctic

Polar Bear, cubs, Arctic

Summer in the Arctic means great photo opportunities. Photo: Ashton Palmer

The early summer months not only bring reasonably warm weather but also have the advantage of the midnight sun, when the near 24-hour daylight conditions make for superb photo opportunities.
Read reviews of WOW trips to the Arctic. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

Start a trip to the Arctic

Other Smart Options This Month

Click on any of the destinations below to find out why July is a good time to go.

 

North America and Caribbean

Caribbean Islands: off-peak resort rates and yacht charters

Seattle

 

Central and South America

Bolivia

Brazil: Rio, Pantanal Wetlands, and the southern Amazon region

Colombia: Bogota

Costa Rica: green-season deals

Ecuador: Galapagos Islands and Quito

Peru

 

Europe

Austria

Croatia

England: London

European Canal Barge Cruises

Italy: The Dolomites

Malta

Scotland

Sicily: first half of the month

Turkey: Istanbul and Aegean Coast

 

Asia and Pacific

Cambodia: green season

China: Yunnan Province

India: Agra and Ladakh

Nepal: Upper Mustang region

Seychelles

 

Africa

Botswana

Madagascar

Rwanda

South Africa: Cape Town

 

 

Be a smarter traveler: Sign up for Wendy’s weekly newsletter to stay in the know. Read real travelers’ reviews, then use the black CONTACT buttons on Wendy’s WOW List to reach out to the right local fixer for your trip. 

Iceland waterfall Skogafoss in Icelandic nature landscape. Famous tourist attractions and landmarks destination in Icelandic nature landscape on South Iceland. Aerial drone view of top waterfall. -

Where to Go in June: The Best Places to Travel

In much of the northern hemisphere, June is an excellent time weather-wise to squeeze in a trip before most school vacations start, the summer crowds surge, and the heat descends. Below are some of your smartest June trip options. Click the black buttons below to connect with a top local expert to plan an extraordinary trip for you. Here’s how to get a WOW trip.

For other months of the year, see Where To Go When.

GET A PERSONALIZED TRIP RECOMMENDATION


Canada’s Maritime Provinces, including Newfoundland

The coastline of Twillingate, New World Islands, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

Even the locals go iceberg-watching in Eastern Canada in June. Photo: Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism

June is typically an optimal month for iceberg watching—a popular pastime in Newfoundland. On a warm day, you can watch these majestic mountains of ice flow along the province’s northern and eastern coasts.  It’s also the start of the summer season of food, festivals, and spectacular scenery in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Atlantic Canada. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

Start a trip to Canada’s Maritimes

San Sebastián, Spain

Beach and colorful houses of San Sebastian, Spain

Mingle with locals in San Sebastián in June. Photo: Shutterstock

June is a great time in San Sebastián: The weather has cleared but it’s not yet warm enough for beach-goers, so the crowds are manageable. Enjoy the top pintxo bars while they are still filled with locals—most of whom will be replaced by tourists come July and August. And a lot of produce comes into season now, making the many Michelin-starred menus even more delectable than usual.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Spain. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

Start a trip to San Sebastian

The Mediterranean Island of Malta

Xlendi Tower, Malta

You can feast—and swim—in Malta in June.

If you must travel in summer and you want ocean temperatures that are warm enough for swimming, plan your Malta trip for the second half of June, when the island isn’t as busy—and the weather not as hot—as later on in the summer. There are also village feasts happening around the country just about every weekend from May through October, with parades, concerts, and fireworks. (If swimming isn’t a prerequisite for your trip, March is a fabulous time for Malta.)
Read reviews of WOW trips to Malta. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

Start a trip to Malta

The Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon view of the watchtower.

In June, enjoy the Grand Canyon without the crowds and the summertime heat. Photo: Mike Buchheit

The peak of summer sees crowds almost as huge as the Grand Canyon itself; go in June and you’ll have much more breathing room, as well as access to the far less visited North Rim (which is open only from mid-May to mid-October). The right local fixer can arrange helicopter flights over the canyon, mule rides down to where the rocks are 1.8 billion years old, float trips along the Colorado River, and behind-the-scenes tours of sites not accessible to ordinary travelers.
Read reviews of WOW trips to U.S. national parks. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

Start a trip to the Grand Canyon

Alaska Expedition Cruises

An adult humpback whale breaching

An adult humpback whale breaches in Southeast Alaska.  Photo: Lindblad Expeditions/Michael S. Nolan

The first two weeks of June in Southeast Alaska—the region also known as the Inside Passage—typically offer drier days and better wildlife spotting on the beaches at low tide. This is also a prime time to spot transient orcas, migrating humpback whales, and hauled-out harbor seals. Winds coming off the snow-covered mountain peaks make the air crisp, and the forests showcase an abundance of colorful and diverse wildflowers.
Read reviews of WOW Alaska expedition cruises. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

Start an Alaska small-ship expedition cruise

Cappadocia, Turkey

Balloons over Cappadocia. Photograph courtesy of Earl Starkey

When in Cappadocia, make sure to see the fairy chimneys from a balloon. Photo: Earl Starkey

In June the wildflowers are in bloom and everything is still green. The light is ideal for photography, the days are long, and the nights are lovely. It is also a perfect time for balloon flights over the fairy chimneys in Cappadocia.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Turkey. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

Start a trip to Cappadocia

Italy’s Dolomites Region

The Dolomites are a hiker’s paradise in June.

The craggy peaks and verdant valleys of the Dolomites, part of the Italian Alps, provide some of the country’s most spectacular scenery. In June you are guaranteed sunny days and warm evenings, with not too much humidity. Enjoy hiking and biking into the UNESCO-designated landscape, and afterward sample the local culinary delicacies over lunch at a mountain rifugio or from a picnic basket.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Italy. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

Start a trip to the Dolomites

Iceland

View of basalt stacks Reynisdrangar, black sand beach near Vik and violet lupine flowers and lonely church, South Iceland

Sun shines almost 24 hours a day on the Icelandic town of Vik in June. Photo: Shutterstock

Around the summer solstice (June 21), Iceland offers 24 hours of sunshine and an explosion of wildflowers as far as the eye can see. It’s also a good time for animal lovers: There are day-old foals, lambs, and wild chicks, and eggs visible in ground nests.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Iceland. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

Start a trip to Iceland

Bali

Uma by Como, Ubud, Bali

June sees Bali’s most reliably pleasant weather. Photo: Como Resorts

June is the calm before—and after—the tourist storms that hit this island during the Christmas/New Year period and in July, August, and early September. It also has the most reliably pleasant weather (daytime temps in the 80s and gentle breezes to keep the sun from feeling too hot) and decent prices (high-season hotel rates don’t kick in until July).
To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

Start a trip to Bali

Thailand’s Beach Paradise: Koh Phangan

small boat on beach of Koh Phangan island Thailand

June is rainy in much of Thailand—but not Koh Phangan. Photo: Journeys Within

While the rest of Thailand is entering the rainy season in June, the island of Koh Phangan is still sunny and dry, making it ideal for snorkeling, diving, and lounging on the beach. As it’s high season on Koh Phangan, you won’t see deep discounts for your stay there, but if you’re pairing the beach time with a larger journey around Thailand you can take advantage of the “green season” specials in the rest of the country.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Thailand. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

Start a trip to Koh Phangan

India’s Himalaya Mountains: Trekking and Tigers

royal bengal tiger in the ranthambore tiger reserve in rajasthan india

A royal Bengal tiger stretches in the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan, India. Photo: Sanjay Saxena

June is an excellent time for hikers, as many Himalayan trekking routes are open, and the mountains (up to about 14,000 feet, at least) are covered with rhododendron blooms and other wildflowers. And while it’s very hot in the central plains, it’s also the best time for visiting that region’s wildlife parks—especially the tiger reserves.
Read reviews of WOW trips to India. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

Start a trip to India

Rwanda and Uganda: Gorilla Trekking

gorilla group in the jungle, Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda. Photo: EXPLORE

Gorilla sightings are equally good all year long (though never guaranteed). However, the best time for gorilla tracking is June, when it’s cool and there is less precipitation (but remember, this is still the rainforest, and storms can hit any day).
Read reviews of WOW trips to Rwanda and Uganda. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

Start a trip to Rwanda and Uganda

Borneo

Malaysia Sabah Borneo Scenic View of Tun Sakaran Marine Park tropical island (Bohey Dulang) Semporna, Sabah.

Tun Sakaran Marine Park. Photo: Shutterstock

Borneo’s dry season (if you can have one in the rainforest) runs from May through September, and by June the fruiting season is in full swing; this is the ideal time to see orangutans and other animals swinging through the trees.
To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

Start a trip to Borneo

Yakushima, Japan

forest river in Yakushima Japan

Japan’s sub-tropical island of Yakushima is ideal in June. Photo: Sankara Hotel & Spa Yakushima

This sub-tropical island, located in the waters just south of Kyushu, is ideal for intrepid travelers: Its mountains and vast forest of ancient cedar trees are crisscrossed by a network of hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging ascents. June signals the end of the rainy season, so you’ll find stunning waterfalls along the trails; it’s also when endangered loggerhead sea turtles return to Yakushima’s beaches to nest.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Japan. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

Start a trip to Japan

Bhutan

Punakha Dzong Monastery, one of the largest monestary in Asia, Punakha, Bhutan

Punakha Dzong Monastery, one of the largest monasteries in Asia. Photo: Shutterstock

In June the higher mountainsides are dressed in the pinks, whites, reds, purples, and oranges of Himalayan rhododendron flowers. Iris, orchids, primula, and other flowers are blooming, spring plantings are poking their leaves up out of fields, and migratory birds are heading north across the mountains. Many travelers have gone home, so roads are not teeming with buses and other tourist vehicles (which is very important in a country with only one east-west road). Moreover, with fewer visitors, Bhutanese locals have time to sit and chat or cook special meals instead of the typical tourist buffets. Yes, you may have some clouds or perhaps a shower, but the more peaceful countryside makes the trade-off well worthwhile.
To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below. 

Start a trip to Bhutan

Other Smart Options This Month

Click on any of the destinations below to find out why June is a good time to go.

North America and Caribbean

American West: river rafting

Canada: British Colombia

Caribbean: off-season resort rates and yacht charters

Mexico’s Riviera Maya

Montana and Wyoming: Yellowstone National Park

Utah’s National Parks

Washington: whale watching in the San Juan Islands

 

Central and South America

Bolivia

Brazil: Pantanal wetlands, Rio de Janeiro, southern Amazon, and Trancoso’s off season

Colombia: Bogota

Costa Rica: green season

Ecuador: family trips to the Galapagos

Peru

 

Europe

Croatia

England: London

France: Paris, Provence, and canal barge trips

Germany: Bavaria

Italy: Florence’s Festa di San Giovanni, Sicily, and Umbria’s festival season

Norway

Portugal, including the Algarve

Romania

Scotland

Switzerland

Turkey: Aegean Coast and Istanbul

 

Asia and Pacific

Australia: Great Barrier Reef

Cambodia: green season

China: Yunnan Province

French Polynesia (second half of the month)

Laos: green-season deals

Mongolia (first half of the month)

Nepal

New Zealand: winter activities in Queenstown

Papua New Guinea

Seychelles

Uzbekistan

 

Africa and Middle East

Botswana

Egypt: value trips

Madagascar

Namibia (first half of the month)

South Africa: whale watching and shark-cage diving

Zambia

Zimbabwe

 

 

Be a smarter traveler: Sign up for Wendy’s weekly newsletter to stay in the know. Read real travelers’ reviews, then use the black CONTACT buttons on Wendy’s WOW List to reach out to the right local fixer for your trip. 

Palm trees and wooden houses of an island in Belize.

Where and When to Travel in 2025

This year is already shaping up to be another momentous one for international travel, likely even to break the records set in 2024. While Western Europe is still incredibly popular—especially so now, given the dollar’s historic strength against the euro—the most-booked countries for 2025 WOW trips range from Japan and Chile to Cambodia and New Zealand (scroll down for the full list). 

For intel on the smartest travel choices to make for the coming year, watch our WOW Wednesday Travel Talk below (recorded on February 5, 2025), and read on to learn where and when to travel this year.

Fast-forward the video to 1:30 to skip the preamble.

Wondering how to avoid the tourist masses, crowds, and lines that 2025 will no doubt bring to many beloved places, especially in Europe?  Besides working with well-connected local travel fixers who are able to expedite you past all crowds and lines and ensure unique private experiences (but such arrangements can get expensive!), here’s what you can do:

EUROPE: 

  • Go in the off-season. Keep in mind that what is low season or shoulder season has changed in the past few years. May through September is now peak season; March and November have joined April and October as the new shoulder season.  The only low season is January and February (and remember, winter in Europe has its own advantages, not least of which is seeing the northern lights). 
  • In the most popular countries, choose off-the-beaten-path areas. Take Italy, for instance. It’s the Catholic Church’s Jubilee year, which will bring an estimated 35 million visitors to Rome. Maybe you skip Rome and head instead to Emilia-Romagna or the Piedmont. Rather than Tuscany, consider Umbria. In place of Lake Como, think Lake Orta or Lake Garda. Instead of the Amalfi Coast, head for Puglia, Basilicata, or Calabria. We’ve pointed travelers to hidden gems all over Europe.
  • Walk just a few blocks off the main streets. In Venice and Dubrovnik last year, Wendy was able to leave the crowds behind simply by detouring two minutes from the most trodden routes, and by choosing hotels in more residential areas. 
  • Choose under-the-radar countries and islands.  Malta and Gozo, for instance, are two of the Mediterranean’s best-kept secrets. (See that private seaside picnic on our video above? That was Wendy’s lunch in Gozo last October.)  Less-touristed countries in mainland Europe that are spectacularly beautiful and fascinating include Slovenia and Romania.

SOUTH AMERICA: Get it all close to home. Colombia, long a sleeper of an all-around fabulous destination—incredible biodiversity, welcoming people, great food and coffee, and sophisticated cities—is finally coming into its own. The country’s beaches haven’t been particularly accessible to travelers, but now that’s changing with new hotels and resorts opening on the Rosario Islands. Plus, there are new nonstop flights from Chicago and Houston. Since Chile is among our travelers’ most-booked destinations in 2025, consider Argentina instead, or even buzzy Uruguay. Read WOW South America trip reviews.

CENTRAL AMERICA: Warm, beachy vibes with good bang for your buck. Central America is known for its wildlife, lush rainforests, barrier islands, and value for dollar. This year, new nonstop flights are making it more accessible to a greater number of U.S. cities. Costa Rica—known for its surfing, volcano hiking, and coffee and chocolate farms—has new nonstop flights from Boston, San Francisco, and Seattle. Belize offers a mix of land- and water-based adventures and has a new direct flight from San Francisco. Read reviews of WOW trips to Costa Rica and Belize

ASIA: Find alternatives to the hottest destinations. Japan remains extremely popular and quite expensive. If you’re wishing to see the cherry blossoms, why not leave the crowds behind and head to Korea, which has the very same species of cherry trees blooming in spring, but far fewer crowds. Thailand has long been hot and will only get more so, with the latest season of The White Lotus showcasing the Four Seasons Koh Samui. Consider Laos instead, which is a bit like Thailand was 50 years ago, but with its own distinct culture and landscapes—plus a new high-speed train that makes it much easier to get around the country. China, which has long required U.S. travelers to apply for a visa, recently announced visa-free layovers of up to 10 days for U.S. travelers, as long as you are then headed on to a third country. Read WOW Asia trip reviews.

Nonstop flights: Major airlines are adding 35 new routes overseas in 2025, up 4% from last year and 10% from 2019. Delta and United both announced their biggest year ever for new transatlantic routes. Check out our continually updated list of nonstop routes from U.S. cities to interesting international locales, including lots of new flights to Italy and a first-ever route to Greenland. If a connection or two are essential for getting to your final destination, choose one of the smartest airports for making connections in, and get as close to your destination as you can, as quickly as you can. (In other words, if you’re flying to Croatia and have to connect somewhere, do it in Europe rather than in the U.S.) If you must make a domestic connection to an international flight, consider overnighting at the connection point. (For instance, if you’re flying to Africa via JFK, missing your connection could seriously disrupt your safari plans, so consider spending the night in New York.)

Places to stay: For travelers who like a wide range of accommodations, depending on the character of the region, there are more choices than ever before.  WOW Listers are constantly turning up authentic, small properties in their areas of expertise—from a Finnmark dogsledding farm that blends into the snowy forest, to Japanese ryokan with onsen. As changes in local ordinances keep altering the way property rentals are permitted, new creative options continue to arise—from homestays and agritourism to treehouses and glamping yurts. The return of Starwood Hotels is also exciting for those who loved both the brand’s properties and its loyalty program.

Find the right “where and when” for you. Our travel personalities change over time. If you’re a parent or grandparent stuck traveling over the busy school-break periods, check out our compilations of the best trips for spring break, Thanksgiving, and Christmas/New Year’s. If now is the time to be active while you still can, get inspiration from these reviews of sporty trips. Going solo? It’s a huge trend among our travelers, who love how easily they can drop into local culture with the help of the right destination specialist. Don’t want to miss out on a destination that could soon be off-limits to U.S. travelers? We’ve got advice on how to get to Cuba—legally—this year.

Buy travel insurance and evacuation assistance. It can protect your financial investment, cover any medical expenses, and give you peace of mind. If you’re sick or injured, the right travel insurance policy will cover your care at the nearest appropriate facility; you need a second layer of protection if you want to be treated at home.

These are the most popular countries in 2025 for our travelers:

1. Italy
2. United Kingdom
3. Tie: Japan and Norway
4. France
5. Spain
6. South Africa
7. Vietnam
8. Botswana
9. Tie: Cambodia, Chile, New Zealand, Portugal, Zimbabwe
10. Australia

 

Links to Useful Resources

Just Back: Reviews of our Travelers’ Recent Trips

Where To Go When: Ideal Destinations For Each Month of the Year

Nonstop Flights To Make Your Travels Easier

Insider’s Guide to 177 Destinations Around the World

The WOW List of Trusted Travel Experts

Ask Wendy: Get a Personalized Trip Recommendation

 

Be a smarter traveler: Sign up for Wendy’s weekly newsletter to stay in the know. Read real travelers’ reviews, then use the black CONTACT buttons on Wendy’s WOW List to reach out to the right local fixer for your trip.

Andrea's daughter on her private wakeboarding session on Lake Como.

Beat the Summer Heat in Europe with a Cool Trip Itinerary

Mediterranean Europe suffered record-breaking heat waves during the last two summers, and in some spots, high humidity or wildfires made it even worse. Fortunately, the itineraries designed for our travelers by WOW List experts deliver relief. (Example: The private wakeboarding session on Lake Como pictured above.)  These trip reviews provide great ideas for beating the heat, including:

  • Get out of the cities and onto (or into) the water. If there’s no sea or lake nearby, think higher elevations in the countryside.
  • Consider water-based transport between the locations on your itinerary. Take shaded, breezy boats, from ferries to private water taxis.
  • Include excursions on the water, from sailboat tours to river rafting.
  • Limit outdoor activities to the morning and evening.  Spend the hottest part of the day (the afternoons) in air-conditioned or underground places. Think modern indoor museums, gelato-making classes, tastings in wine cellars, crypts and catacombs.
  • Pick waterfront accommodations and rooms with breezy balconies. In inland cities, think hotels with rooftop pools.
  • Choose northern Europe over southern. The Matterhorn, fjords, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks hit the spot in the height of summer.

Keep cool out there!

START A WEATHER-PROOFED TRIP

Mallorca: “We actually sailed along the stunning coastline and loved swimming in the crystal-clear waters…”

Elizabeth Crawford and her family at a waterfront restaurant featured in The Night Manager mini-series in Mallorca, Spain.

Elizabeth Crawford and family at a waterfront restaurant featured in The Night Manager mini-series.

“In Palma de Mallorca, Iván made sure we had a local guide to introduce us to the city. While winding us through the narrow streets, pointing out landmarks and helping us learn our way around, our guide Laura introduced us to local tapas bars and wines. The food was excellent, and we had our favorite wine of the trip in an exclusive wine bar that we would never have been able to get into on our own.

My husband had asked to see the scenic restaurant featured in the film The Night Manager. Much to our surprise, Laura spoke to the restaurant matriarch, and we were able to have lunch in this gorgeous, exclusive setting—yet another restaurant we would never have been able to get into on our own. And, when we finally arrived at our spectacular hotel on the cliffs of Port de Sóller, we felt like movie stars. We reveled in luxurious lounging at our hotel.

Later in the week, Iván arranged for a private sailboat excursion with a very experienced captain for us. We appreciated that we actually sailed—not something you can always count on—along the stunning coastline and loved swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Our trip was spectacular, and Iván succeeded in making it feel personally tailored to us, with local access and expertise that only a WOW specialist can provide.” —Elizabeth Crawford

Read more reviews of Spain trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO SPAIN

Northern Italy: “A rooftop pool to beat the heat!”

Andrea's family enjoying the view of Florence from the rooftop pool.

Teens cooling off and enjoying the view of Florence from the Grand Hotel Minerva’s rooftop pool. Photo: Traveler Andrea Phillips

“My family of four, with two teen girls, had a wonderful and action-packed trip to Italy covering Umbria, Tuscany, Florence, Bologna, Lake Como and Milan, planned with Maria. We stayed at hotels that were the perfect fit (like the one in Florence that had a rooftop pool to beat the heat!), had the best rooms and locations and such personal service, all due to Maria’s connections. Italy was busy with travelers while we were there, but I can honestly say that it did not affect our plans at all, as Maria had it coordinated and timed out so perfectly.

This trip was also to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary, and Maria had suggested two stops along the way that were very special. Wow, were they ever! Borgo Santo Pietro, a working farm and wellness resort in west Tuscany, and Grand Hotel Tremezzo, near Bellagio in Lake Como. Both resorts resembled something out of a dream. Beautiful landscapes, amazing service, delicious food, gorgeous rooms, and so many amenities. At Borgo Santo Pietro, you had the feeling of being in a fairy garden wherever you went, and around every corner, there was something new to discover.

Andrea Phillips

Traveler Andrea Phillips and family enjoying a summer evening in Tuscany during their WOW trip.

The other amazing stop was the Grand Hotel Tremezzo, which is a standout feature on any Lake Como ferry ride, with its striking architecture, gardens and in-lake floating pool in front, so actually staying there was quite a treat! We enjoyed the spa, the many pools and casual restaurants, and even had a private wakeboarding session one morning on the Lake! That is a memory that will never be forgotten and made this stop my girls’ favorite! Maria also arranged a great private boat tour to visit Bellagio and the famous villas of the lake with a lovely private guide, who had access to go inside the villas and educate us on all of the historic collections and stories. It was fascinating!

We had many other activities that were also highlights. In Umbria, we went canyoning through a roaring mountain river, had an in-depth local cooking class, a gelato-making class, and went truffle hunting with the cutest, yet very talented dogs. In Siena, we had lunch on the exact alleyway where the Mille Miglia Race of Classic Cars were driving through to enter Il Campo (definitely because of Maria’s connections in Italy!). In Lucca, we rode bikes around the medieval walls where we crossed paths with a special parade of classic Fiat 500s. In Bologna, we visited one of the world’s oldest universities, and in nearby Maranello, drove Ferraris through the streets of the town where they are made!” —Andrea Phillips

Read more reviews of Italy trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO ITALY

Turkey’s Aegean Coast: “A 6-day cruise on a gulet along the Turkish coast…”

Vanessa Hulme

Travelers Vanessa and Colin Hulme aboard their private yacht on Turkey’s Aegean coast.

Karen and her team planned an absolutely flawless vacation for my husband and me for 3 days in Istanbul and a 6-day cruise on a gulet along the Turkish coast. Our incredible guide in Istanbul, Sinan, not only showed us the tourist highlights, but out-of-the ordinary places we would never have found on our own. He also introduced us to real Turkish food, even going so far as booking a dinner reservation and pre-ordering a menu that suited us perfectly.

From Istanbul, we flew to Bodrum, and boarded our private gulet. We had never toured via a gulet, but it certainly exceeded our expectations. The crew was professional, accommodating, and went out of their way to make the trip special. The stops were beautiful and the food amazing.

We also had the pleasure of our most memorable WOW Moment in Datca, being the first and only guests at a hotel just prior to the opening! We had the facility to ourselves, were served a gourmet dinner that was overseen by the General Manager and Food Service Manager, and were offered a gorgeous suite for an overnight stay; to say this was very, very special is an understatement. (Thank you, Wendy, Karen and Mustafa.). Karen and those that work with her obviously have an in-depth knowledge of Turkey. This certainly made our trip both exciting and relaxing, both of which we requested.” —Vanessa Hulme

Read more reviews of Turkey trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO TURKEY

Greece: “Our most favorite day of the trip was on a speed boat, where we traveled to the Blue Lagoon…”

Blue Lagoon in Tigani islet between Paros and Antiparos islands, Cyclades, Greece, with clear transparent turquoise waters.

Blue Lagoon in Tigani islet between Paros and Antiparos islands, Cyclades, Greece. Photo: Shutterstock

“We had one of our best family trips in years, thanks to Irene. We started in Athens, where Irene booked us in a spacious, modern ‘apartment’ at The Dolli, which had excellent service and food. The rooftop pool overlooking the Acropolis was a huge plus given the heat, and the day trip to the ruins at Delphi was a family favorite.

Then it was on to Paros, where we enjoyed the beautiful accommodations and staff attention at the Minois Hotel. Our teens loved the amazing outdoor space with our own small pool, as well as the resident cats. Our most favorite day of the trip was on a speed boat, where we traveled to the Blue Lagoon, went cliff jumping, and visited remote beaches in Antiparos and Despatiko. Nikos, our driver/guide, was fabulous, and we had a delicious lunch on board.

We then ferried to Santorini, where we stayed in the breathtaking Grace Hotel. The geology, ruins, and small towns in Santorini didn’t disappoint, and we enjoyed special attention at dinners that Irene arranged and various recommended restaurants, some ‘off the beaten path.’ We also loved our fascinating guided tour to Akrotiri, a town even older than Pompeii that was also destroyed—and then preserved—due to a massive volcanic explosion.

Our meals, guides, and hotels were all impeccable, and even with the heat and crowds, we always felt supported and well taken care of. We would highly recommend Irene to anyone planning a trip to Greece.” —Amanda Mandel

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Tuscany: “Cool breezes throughout the day and evening—a welcome relief from the heat in Europe this summer…”

Scenic overlook of the Tyrrhenian Sea along the Amalfi Coast of Italy.

Scenic overlook of the Tyrrhenian Sea, Italy. Photo: Shutterstock

“Normally we would not travel to Italy in July…too hot and too crowded. However, our goal was to see Andrea Bocelli perform at the amphitheater he built in Tuscany called Teatro del Silenzio in Lajatico, his hometown. The theater is ‘silent’ except for the one concert he performs there each year in July, and we felt it would be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The concert was taking place during the middle of our time in Italy, so we needed an agenda before and after.

Jennifer suggested we start our trip on the Tuscan coast, staying four nights at the Hotel Il Pellicano. This gorgeous, iconic property overlooks the Tyrrhenian Sea, providing cool breezes throughout the day and evening—a welcome relief from the heat in Europe this summer. Heaven in July! We then traveled inland to the countryside of Tuscany for the next four nights, where we would be closer to the Bocelli concert. Borgo Pignano is an elegant country estate close to the hill towns of Volterra and San Gimignano. A perfect location that we would never have found on our own. Again, the temperature dropped in the mornings and evenings, making it very pleasant for al fresco dining and touring.

While at these locations, Jennifer arranged for driver/guides to transport us to several wineries. A standout was Ornellaia. Not an easy tour to arrange, and Jennifer managed it!

The Bocelli concert was beyond our expectations. The tickets that Jennifer and her team secured were front and center, five rows back from the stage. We will never forget it. It was more than a concert, it was a masterful production with a full orchestra, ballet company, chorus and guest artists, from opera to pop. Magical.

Jennifer’s advice is invaluable to us, and we consider her a friend. We have used other WOW List advisors with the same excellent results and will continue to use Wendy Perrin’s great resources when we travel.” —Susan Ketchum

Read more reviews of Italy trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

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Copenhagen and the Danish seaside: “Not too hot… reasonable crowds, not too expensive, and very enjoyable…”

Lynn Herrick

Rainbow over Copenhagen. Photo: Traveler Lynn Herrick

“We rarely travel to Europe in the summer because of the heat and crowds, but we needed to be in Berlin in mid-July this year and wanted to add a week in another destination prior to reaching Berlin. Denmark was the PERFECT choice. Not too hot (even chilly some days!), reasonable crowds, not too expensive, and very enjoyable. Mads arranged our trip for us and he made it very easy. We did not mind driving in Denmark, so he arranged for a private car and put together an itinerary that gave us a flavor of the country. Our college-age kids traveled with us and there was enough to keep everyone engaged.

We loved, loved, loved Copenhagen. Our hotel was in the middle of all the action, and the city is extremely walkable and public transportation easy to navigate. Our first morning in town was our WOW Moment and it was perfect. We sailed (electric boat) around the city with a private tour guide and lots of fun snacks. It was a great introduction to the city, and the guide gave us lots of ideas for the rest of our trip.

We traveled to several cities after Copenhagen, visited castles, stayed at an inn that has been hosting guests since 1744, learned all about Hans Christian Andersen, visited museums, enjoyed a ferry ride, and stayed in a charming Danish seaside town with a great spa. We finished the trip with one more fun night in Copenhagen and stayed up late, as the sun seems to last forever…. Highly recommend Mads and Denmark for a special summer trip.” —Lynn Herrick

Read more reviews of Denmark trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

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Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast: “We did three boat trips (one sailboat and two motor boats), two cooking classes…”

Panoramic view of Fortresses Lovrijenac and old town of Dubrovnik, Croatia.

Fortress Lovrijenac outside Dubrovnik’s old town, Croatia. Photo: Shutterstock

“My wife and I worked with Ala. We stayed in Dubrovnik (Hotel Excelsior) for three nights, Hvar (Maslina Resort in Stari Grad) for four nights, and Split (Santa Lucia Heritage Hotel) for two nights. All three hotels were excellent, and the Excelsior and Maslina Resort were both on the water. The Santa Lucia Hotel was in the main square about three blocks from the water.

We wanted to relax, so we did minimal sightseeing. Instead we did three boat trips (one sailboat and two motor boats), two cooking classes, and several wine tastings, which we enjoyed very much. The people of Croatia are very warm and genuine people, and we loved the country. The drivers and tour guides selected by Ala were on time, very knowledgeable, and very nice.

The whole trip was a highlight, but I would say the top two were an eight-hour sailboat, where we then stopped for lunch on a small island, and the cooking class in Split. The food was excellent throughout. I would highly recommend Croatia, and specifically Ala and her team, to anyone who is considering their next vacation.” —Jeffrey Cohen

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Italy: “Lunch and snorkeling… Cruising the Arno river with a renaioli…. Learning to row a Batela in Venice…”

empty boat on charming canal in Venice italy with cute villas on either side and no one around

Venice, Italy. Photo: Shutterstock

Maria did an excellent job of planning a balanced trip of cultural sightseeing and fun activities inside, outside, and on the water. After the overnight flight to Milan, we literally hit the ground hiking from Santa Margherita Ligure to Portofino, keeping our active boys moving while acclimating to the new time zone. Although a little risky with potential jet lag, this was a highlight hiking through the high serene hills for a couple of hours, with only the sounds of birds and a young wild boar and descending upon Portofino on foot. Portofino was a treat and the next full day at sea on a captained 40-foot boat to swim and visit the coastline at our leisure was awesome! Having lunch and snorkeling at San Fruttuoso was fantastic. Additional memorable experiences included:

    • Visiting the Ferrari museum and test driving Ferraris on the streets of Maranello
    • Touring the Accademia sculptures, the Uffizi and cruising the Arno river with a renaioli and our private guide Elvira
    • Staying at a palazzo in Montefalco: Maria was right—this is the balcony of Umbria, and the views are unforgettable!
    • Sightseeing through ancient Rome—including the Forum, Colosseum and Vatican museums—with very knowledgeable private guides (Valerie) and no lines!
    • Riding on the back of Vespas, seeing unique neighborhoods and parks in Roma
    • Learning to row a Batela in Venice w/ our own rowing instructor and having cicchetti (appetizers) and wine

Maria chose excellent hotels for our stays, and the rooftop bar lounge and pool in Florence was a great way to end every fun day.” —Mark Mazzatta

Read more reviews of Italy trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

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Norway: “The most unique and beautiful experience of the trip was a full day with Sverre and his dog Rondor on an antique rowboat…”

Beautiful Nature Norway natural landscape aerial photography. lovatnet lake.

Lovatnet Lake, Norway. Photo: Shutterstock

“What a fantastic trip! Jan did an excellent job planning an amazing self-drive itinerary in Norway. Norway is breathtakingly and relentlessly beautiful. Driving above, around, and on (via car ferry) the fjords is the perfect way to see it. One stunning sight after another comes into view. Waterfalls are everywhere, mountain views, glaciers, fjords, fields in the mountains all overwhelmed with us their beauty. We had so many unique and incredible experiences on this trip but will list only a few:

RIB boat adventure: This three-hour private RIB boat trip from Gudvangen on the Nærøyfjord, Aurlandsfjord, and the Sognefjord eventually docked in Solvorn at the Hotel Walaker, our home for the next two nights. Along this exhilarating fast boat ride we saw stunning beauty, cascading waterfalls and other sights that are too beautiful to adequately describe in words. You might ask what happened to our car while we were zipping along the fjords? No problem—Jan arranged for someone to drive our car the two-and-a-half hours to the hotel for us while we had all the fun!

A day on the fjord: Perhaps the most unique and beautiful experience of the trip was a full day with Sverre and his dog Rondor on an antique rowboat on the fjord just outside the Hotel Union Øye where we stayed. We essentially had this fjord to ourselves while we rowed and fished. We caught two small haddock and Sverre rowed us to shore where he cleaned, deboned and cooked the fish over a fire he built in minutes. His love of nature and his ability to share the beauty of Norway with us was truly special.” —Jonathan and Suzanne Scharfstein

Read more reviews of Norway trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

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Istanbul: “Seeing Istanbul from the Bosphorus was truly special…”

view of Bosphorus in Istanbul Turkey from deck of boat

View of the Bosphorus in Istanbul. Photo: Tim Baker

“We were dealing with certain health issues, and Karen and her team were able to take that into account when determining the best locations in our daily itinerary. Our week in Istanbul was wonderful. One of the highlights was our Bosphorus Strait cruise. We had a large yacht that allowed family and friends to join us on the cruise. Seeing Istanbul from the Bosphorus was truly special.

Another highlight was the Turkish Bath. Getting scrubbed and soaked in a hammam built in the 1500s was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The hotels were excellent too, and all meals perfect. It was a wonderful time.” —Shawn Rosenzweig and Beverly Schachter

Read more reviews of Turkey trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

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Picnic on the beach on Gozo Island, Malta.

The Mediterranean Islands To See Now, Before the Secret Gets Out

Imagine a magical place where:

  • there are ancient temples older than Stonehenge and the Pyramids; in fact, they’re the oldest freestanding structures in the world.
  • there are Blue Grottoes and a Crystal Lagoon.
  • so many different civilizations and empires have left their mark that the culture, art, and traditions are uniquely fascinating.
  • you’re still in Europe but it’s warm in winter.
  • the flight time from Rome or Athens is less than two hours, and English is an official language.

It’s not just a dream. There IS such a place. It’s called Malta. And if it’s not on your radar, it should be.

Wendy Perrin having a picnic on the beach on Gozo Island, Malta.

A private picnic on the Maltese island of Gozo. Photo: Timothy Baker

That’s me on the Maltese island of Gozo last fall. (Yes, Malta still has beach weather in mid-October.)  It was my third time in Malta, and each time just keeps getting better. That’s because this trip was arranged by the Malta experts on The WOW List.

Malta may be 8,000 years old and well-known to Europeans, but right now its medieval cities and dramatic coastlines are being “discovered” by everyone else.  Tourism in 2024 grew more than 20% over 2023, thanks to an increase in flights and the addition of new cruise-ship piers. The mostly uninhabited island of Comino will be getting a Six Senses resort in 2027!  Need I say more? Go now!

Wendy Perrin with a medieval church in the background, in Malta.

Wendy in Mdina, the fortified city that was the island’s former capital. Photo: Timothy Baker

View of sea and cliffs in Malta.

The coast of Gozo. Photo: Timothy Baker

St. John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta.

St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Baroque masterpiece in Valletta. Photo: Timothy Baker

MALTA HAS IT ALL: HISTORY, CULTURE, ADVENTURE, AND SUN IN THE OFF-SEASON

In addition to its historic importance and cultural riches, Malta is a place for beach-vacation-style adventures, from quad biking to scuba diving.

Wendy Perrin driving an ATV in Gozo, Malta.

Wendy went quad biking all over the island of Gozo. Photo: Timothy Baker

Timothy Baker scuba diving in Gozo, Malta.

That’s Wendy’s husband, Tim, scuba diving in Gozo in mid-October. Photo: Lotta Partanen

Malta’s got beach and boat weather from March through October.  This was the beach scene in mid-October on the island of Gozo:

People swimming and sunbathing on the beach in Gozo, Malta.

In Malta it’s bikini weather through the end of October. Photo: Wendy Perrin

And it’s warm enough for dining al fresco through much of November. This was the evening scene in the capital city of Valletta in mid-October:

View of a busy street and restaurants in Valletta, Malta.

Malta’s capital city of Valletta has a vibrant dining scene. Photo: Wendy Perrin

Malta is even that rare Mediterranean island that’s a great choice for Christmas or spring break. To understand why, read these Malta reviews shared by travelers who arranged their trips the WOW way, including this Christmas review and this spring-break review.

WOW INSIDER EXPERIENCES

Many of you love getting special access to places and people that are normally behind closed doors.  If you book through the right Malta expert, there are many such experiences to be had.

Room in Palazzo del Prelato, in Mdina, Malta.

Inside the Palazzo del Prelato. Photo: Timothy Baker

I made a private visit to the Palazzo del Prelato, for instance. It’s a medieval mansion in Mdina that was once home to the prelate of the grand cathedral across the square. The palazzo’s owner, Francis Lanfranco, showed us his private home, which his family has lived in for centuries.

Chapel in Palazzo del Prelato, in Mdina, Malta.

Francis Lanfranco shows us Christian relics in the Palazzo del Prelato’s chapel. Photo: Timothy Baker

From the ancient Christian relics in his chapel (upstairs between the stairway and the dining room) to the Egyptian funerary mask in the parlor, the house is practically a museum…with glorious rooftop views.

I also got to meet sixth-generation gilder and restorer Pierre Darmanin in his studio . If you’re Maltese nobility or a church and you have a gilded treasure that needs restoration, Pierre is probably your go-to.

Restorer Pierre Darmanin in Valletta, Malta.

Sixth-generation gilder and restorer Pierre Darmanin in his studio in Valletta. Photo: Timothy Baker

I loved learning about his disappearing craft and seeing the 17th-century tools passed down from his ancestors.  What’s special about experiences like this is the visceral, unforgettable glimpse you get into local people’s lives. It’s living history.

Ggantija temple in Gozo, Malta.

Wendy’s husband with the curator of Ggantija, the world’s oldest freestanding structure. Photo: Wendy Perrin

Even with sites that are open to the public, such as Malta’s 5,600-year-old megalithic temple of Ggantija, it’s special when you can see it through the eyes of the people who know it best. Above is curator Albert Zammit explaining the world’s oldest freestanding structure—yes, older than the Pyramids of Egypt—to my husband.

IT’S THE PEOPLE YOU MEET

The itinerary arranged by our local fixers in Malta introduced us to their friends all over the Maltese islands. As happens on most WOW trips, the WOW fixer’s local friends become your new friends too.

I met Gulinu and Nancy Scicluna, for instance, who taught me how to make pastizzi, a traditional Maltese savory pastry, in their kitchen. Very few people make pastizzi from scratch anymore—it’s just too much work—but Gulinu learned how as a child and still does it that way as a labor of love.

Pastizzi makers Gulinu and Nancy Scicluna ccoking.

Gulinu and Nancy Scicluna in their kitchen, teaching me how to make pastizzi. Photo: Wendy Perrin

I also met Manny Buhagiar at a bocce club on the island of Gozo. Manny grew up in Malta and then spent years working in Manhattan two blocks from where I grew up!  Now he’s back in his beloved Gozo. While we traded stories, he taught me how to play bocce (and let me win).

Wendy Perrin talking to Manny Buhagiar in Gozo, Malta.

Meeting Manny Buhagiar over bocce on the island of Gozo.  Photo: Timothy Baker

Speaking of meeting people, meet WOW List Malta experts Jason and Damon Camilleri Allan, who surprised us at the airport.

Wendy Perrin with Jason and Damon Camilleri Allan at the airport in Valletta, Malta.

Jason and Damon Camilleri Allan, Malta specialists who make the magic happen. Photo: Timothy Baker

To be recognized as a VIP traveler, with priority status and the other benefits of my WOW way of trip planning—in other words, to get the maximized experience you read about in these reviews —click the black button below and fill out my trip questionnaire. You’ll hear from the experts shortly!

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Colorful houses in Nuuk, Greenland.

Is Greenland The New Travel Frontier?

Greenland has been in the news a lot recently, and not just because of geopolitics. This summer, for the first time ever, it will be possible to fly directly there from the U.S. United Airlines is starting twice-weekly nonstop flights from Newark to Greenland’s capital city of Nuuk on June 14.

The news sets intrepid travelers dreaming about a remote, almost mythical land: Spectacular icebergs and cliffs, dramatic mountains and Inuit culture, and a shimmering hologram of northern lights dancing above an ice sheet three times the size of Texas. Nordic countries have experienced growing popularity as summer spots to beat the heat. For some adventurous travelers, Greenland may represent the cold new thing.

But what can visitors really expect to find in Greenland? And how prepared is it for an influx of travelers? Its national tourism authority is already adjusting expectations by sharing why Greenland may not be for you.

Wendy in Kulusuk, Greenland, ten years ago.

Wendy in Kulusuk, Greenland, ten years ago.

Based on Wendy’s experience of Greenland ten years ago, she echoes the tourism authority’s advice: “If you are planning on visiting Greenland, it would be helpful if you were aware of what you’re getting into.”

So we asked Nordic travel experts on The WOW List for the real story on what travelers arriving in June can expect.

“Greenland is not for everyone,” concurs expedition-cruise specialist Ashton Palmer. “From a scenery perspective, it’s spectacular. It can be very beautiful for photography, and it can be appealing to visit a remote place that’s not boiling hot in the summer. The people are welcoming and open to the world. But I would say travelers heading there have to have a specific interest to go to Greenland—not just to see new wildlife and architecture.”

Is Greenland For You?

While there are whales and sea birds galore, land-based wildlife may not be as plentiful as anticipated. With all the ice, there’s little food for large land mammals. And, with settlements scattered around the coasts, there’s little infrastructure. Accommodations are limited, simple and durable. Roads aren’t designed for long scenic drives. Restaurants aren’t omnipresent, and the national dish is seal soup. It’s quiet.

“It’s a place that’s fairly untouched by tourism,” says Palmer. “People often have a romantic view of it, but the reality is quite different, carved out of living in such a harsh environment.”

It’s important to have the right expectations. “Travelers who have been to Rome and London and Greece in the 100-degree summer are excited by the Nordic ‘cool-cation,’” adds Mads Tange Christensen, a Denmark-based expert on The WOW List. “But a lot of people don’t realize you can’t just drive places; almost every place needs to be accessed by boat or helicopter. And Greenland does not have the hotel capability to live up to expectations of more and more high-end travelers.” Which is why many people choose comfy expedition-style ships focused on sightseeing along the coastline.

The logistics of travel to remote places around the globe with limited infrastructure are easier and more rewarding with the right local fixers. And that is especially true of places that don’t lend themselves to traditional drive-by sightseeing.

If you’d like to be connected to an expert for Greenland or other remote locales, we can help; click the button below to get started.

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Wendy Perrin at the top of Vittorio Emmanuel monument in Rome, Italy.

Where to Travel in Italy during the Jubilee

“Should I travel to Italy this year?”  It’s a question we’re asked every day. That’s because this is the year of the Catholic Church’s Jubilee, which happens in Rome once every 25 years. Some sources anticipate 35 million visitors to Rome, many of them pilgrims focused on the Vatican and Rome’s other religious sites. The potential impact on WOW-caliber travel in Italy is a conversation I’ve been having with WOW List Italy experts Maria Landers and Brian Dore ever since I visited them last fall in the town in Umbria where they live.

Wendy Perrin, Maria Landers and Brian Dore in Umbria, Italy.

Wendy with Italy insiders Brian Dore and Maria Landers in Foligno, Umbria, last fall.

Maria’s prediction about the impact: “I think it’s going to be a big nothing. The Jubilee is not going to affect what most American travelers do in Rome because pilgrims travel very differently than U.S. travelers do.” Most Jubilee pilgrims travel in groups and come from Europe, which means their trips are relatively short and focused on religious sites, rather than winding itineraries throughout Italy, says Maria. In Rome, they aren’t staying in centrally located four-star and five-star hotels. They’re staying outside the city center, in monasteries, hostels, and two-star hotels. They’re not taking up tables in Rome’s best restaurants; they’re eating in monastery cafeterias and tour-group restaurants with set menus. And they’re coming for designated events at specific sites on specific days—events that aren’t happening every day—so if you’re with a first-rate private guide who knows where the groups will be when and what routes they’ll take around the city, “the crowds are absolutely avoidable,” says Maria.

For travelers with flexible schedules, there are reasons why certain windows of time this year could actually be advantageous. With the huge increase in the number of nonstop flights to Italy in 2025, there are likely to be good airfares and mileage-award seats. Hotel prices in Rome have not increased since last year, says the head of Rome’s hotel association, Giuseppe Roscioli, who also says the forecast for hotel traffic is similar to last year.

Maria thinks this year is actually a good time for Rome–except during holy holidays such as Easter and Christmas due to the Jubilee events planned for those times—because of all the cleaning and repairs that have been done to the Eternal City’s piazzas, facades, and public spaces in preparation for the Jubilee. “The travertine marble of the fountains and other monuments, now restored and cleaned of smog and the wear of time, can now be admired in something close to their original color, the way the artists conceived them and as they were viewed centuries ago,” says Maria. “This is a priceless and unique opportunity.”

Italy is the #1 most-booked country for WOW trips this year. Many of these travelers have been to Rome before and are skipping it this time, focusing instead on Italy’s charming, uncrowded, under-the-radar locales that the vast majority of tourists don’t even know exist. Read on for a sampling of lesser-known delights discovered by your fellow travelers, and if you’d like a personalized trip recommendation, we’re at the black button below.

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UMBRIA AND EMILIA-ROMAGNA: “Although it was crowded in Italy, we always felt as if we had our own private pathways to each activity…”

Street in Old Town Montefalco, Umbria, Italy.

The ancient hill town of Montefalco in Umbria, Italy.  Photo: Shutterstock

“My husband and I decided to go back to Italy, where we had been a number of times, but wanted to do something different. We contacted several agents who said that we had done so much in Italy that they could not suggest anything. We then contacted Maria and Brian. Maria met with us by Zoom, and we discussed our interests and the kind of trip we wanted. Maria really listened and planned an amazing trip for us. From the moment we were met at the airport and whisked to Montefalco by our driver, it was perfect.

Montefalco is a charming Umbrian town nestled in the hills with a focus on wine and olive oil. We went truffle hunting and shared perhaps the best meal of our trip with the family. Each of the seven courses was delicious, and I could have eaten the entire tray of the homemade onion focaccia.

The next morning was our WOW Moment. WOW does not do justice to the opportunity to meet Marta Cucchia, the great-granddaughter of weaver Giuditta Brozzetti, who has carried forward her textile workshops. Working on looms from the 15th century, she provided us with a look into the art of weaving. Her joy in the work and understanding of the complexity and history of this art form was enthralling.

This experience set the tone for the remainder of the trip, meeting artisans, wine growers, balsamic-vinegar artists, parmesan cheese makers, prosciutto ham makers, sculptors, cooks, and guides and hoteliers that made us feel welcome. Although it was crowded in Italy, we always felt as if we had our own private pathways to each activity.

One of the most surprising events was a last-minute opportunity, provided by Maria, to go to the opera in Parma. It’s in an old theater that is built like the opera house in Venice. Maria got us perfect seats to see Pagliacci. My husband, who is not an opera fan, has been telling everyone that one of the highlights was seeing the opera with 280 performers on stage. This may be the highest of compliments for a perfect trip.” —Lynne Golomb

Read about more under-the-radar finds. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below. 

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THE PIEDMONT: “The Piedmont region is completely underrated!!! It has the beauty of Tuscany without the crowds…”

Serralunga d'Alba castle, medieval village in Piedmont, north Italy

The medieval village of Serralunga d’Alba in Italy’s Piedmont region. Photo: Shutterstock

“The Piedmont region is completely underrated!!! It has the beauty of Tuscany without the crowds. My husband is an avid wine collector and had requested a tour of the Gaja winery in a local village. Gaja is not open to the public for tours. Andrea used her connections to set up a private tour and tasting for us.

We were also taken to a private home of two brothers who truffle-hunt. After a truffle tutorial, we made our way up into the hills with our truffle-hunting dog, Leesy. It was so exciting to actually find truffles in the ground! We proceeded back to the house for an amazing selection of local cheese, salami and olive oil…with a generous portion of truffle slices on top!

Our guide took us to an amazing lunch in a local hilltop village and then dropped us off in the town of Alba, the largest town in the area. We explored Alba on our own and ended up wandering the narrow streets filled with locals for several hours…trying to forget that it was our last day!! Northern Italy was a special area that we can’t wait to go back to again!!” —Jennifer Mann

Read about more unusual locales in Italy. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below. 

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FRIULI-VENEZIA GIULIA: “Inexplicably, the region doesn’t seem to be on the tourist radar, so of course we decided that this was the place for us!”

Morning seascape of Adriatic sea with the Miramare Castle.

Miramare Castle in Trieste, Italy, on the Adriatic Sea. Photo: Shutterstock

Jennifer helped us plan a two-week trip to Friuli-Venezia Giulia. The area is a melting pot of northern Italian, Austrian and Slovenian cuisines and has great wines (mostly white). Inexplicably, the region doesn’t seem to be on the tourist radar, so of course we decided that this was the place for us!

After two days in Trieste, our driver took us to the Collio wine country, with a stop at Miramare Castle on the way. The accommodation Jennifer suggested to us in the Collio was outstanding, just what we were hoping for! The property was lovely, with a spa and walking paths through the surrounding vineyards. We also spent an amazing day visiting local wine producers and sampling their wares. (Our favorites were Friuliano and Schioppettino!)

After our break in the countryside, we moved on to Udine. A highlight was seeing Tiepolo’s amazing ceiling frescoes. From our base in Udine, we visited the lovely town of Cividale del Friuli, with beautiful Lombard art and architecture, and day-tripped to Kobarid in Slovenia to learn about the Italian front in the First World War. We also had a WOW Moment while staying in Udine: We had a private cooking demo in the kitchen with chef Anna Barbina and her mother, who serves as her sommelier. Anna made five traditional dishes for us to sample (with wine served by her mother, of course), then we had lunch in her restaurant, AB Osteria Contemporanea, where she serves contemporary twists on traditional cooking. Heavenly!

FVG was full of beautiful scenery and art, brimming over with fascinating history, and the food and wine were simply spectacular. We’ve had many incredible meals in Italy over the years, but we had more standouts on this trip than any other. If food is your religion, you should make your way to FVG.” —Rachel Webber

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LIGURIA: “While very close to the Cinque Terre, we avoided all the crowds associated with it…”

Historical Old town of Sestri Levante in Liguria, Italy.

Sestri Levante in Liguria, Italy, is close to the Cinque Terre but not nearly as crowded. Photo: Shutterstock

“Our first stop recommended by Emanuela was Sestri Levante. We stayed at a fantastic hotel right on the water. The ocean views, the people and the restaurants were wonderful and, while very close to the Cinque Terre, we avoided all the crowds associated with it.

She arranged a great boat and captain, Marco, who took us on a great tour of the Bay of Poets, seeing several fishing villages, some massive yachts, the Italian Naval Academy, great scenery and a stop at Porto Venere. We explored the small town and had an excellent lunch at an oceanfront restaurant. While in Sestri Levante we also had a chance to visit Portofino and had a great lunch at a beach club close to town.” —Jeff Stengel

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PUGLIA AND BASILICATA: “We were greeted by the owners and treated like royalty…”

Beautiful town of Alberobello with trulli houses among green plants and flowers, Puglia.

Cone-shaped trulli houses, like these in Alberobello, are Puglia’s signature architecture. Photo: Shutterstock

Antonello and his team planned experiences that we will never forget. We stayed in a palace with 10 rooms in Lecce, a trulli resort surrounded by the countryside where we were greeted by the owners and treated like royalty, and a cave hotel in Matera where we were wined and dined.

Our guides were top-notch, a marine biologist, an archaeologist and experts in all fields. We had lunch at an olive grove and we were served an exceptional lunch by the farm’s owners. We took a private cooking class in someone’s home!! Our most cherished experience was with a ceramic maker. We not only took a tour of his workshop—he invited us to his home to see his acquired antiquities.” —Janis Marcus

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