With the summer finally knocking on our doors, it’s time to start planning our yearly getaways. Simply flying out to some commercially popular tourist trap by the sea is passé, to say the least. Instead, you should consider doing something outside the norm and visit some of the more exotic locations the world has to offer, some of which we will be discussing below.
1. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is one of those cities filled with beautiful locations and breathtaking sights no matter where you look. History lovers will quickly fall in love with Robben Island, while those looking for a perfect picture to freshen up their Instagram feeds will definitely enjoy Bo-Kaap’s interesting culture and layers upon layers of a vibrant housing. Adrenaline junkies and outdoors enthusiast rejoice, as Cape Town offers numerous fun and exciting outdoor activities, including hiking, kite surfing and even swimming with the sharks. For those interested in a more laid back and relaxed setting, the scenic mountainside is home to some of the best wineries in the world.
2. Pula, Croatia
Although its rocky shoreline simply invites people to dive into the clear water of the Adriatic, Pula is not exactly the prime location for a relaxing beach holiday. Instead, you should think of it as a place where you can immerse yourself into numerous Habsburg and Roman sights the city has to offer, both during the day and night. Tourists can wander through the vast network of tunnels and passages located underneath the Roman amphitheater, or walk around its circumference.
The amphitheater in Pula is the sixth largest amphitheater built during the Roman Empire and it’s currently one of the most preserved ones in the entire world. During the summer months, this megalithic monument is used as a venue for concerts and festivals, which is something you simply must experience in order to fully appreciate the location.
3. New Orleans, United States
Hailed as the birthplace of Jazz music and the home of Mardi Gras parade, lacy balconies, sidewalk bands and French Creole cuisine, New Orleans is one of those places that should definitely be on everyone’s bucket list. Jazz fans will be delighted to visit venues such as Snug Harbor and Preservation Hall, while those who prefer country music have the opportunity to enjoy the annual Bayou Country Superfest. In August, the city will mark the 40th anniversary of Elvis Presley’s death by holding Elvis Week, a week-long festival during which the most diehard fans can pay their respects to the King with a candlelit vigil and enjoy various contests, panel discussions and tribute acts.
4. Tel Aviv, Israel
You may mistake this beautiful beach-meets-metropolis for a war-torn town, but Tel Aviv is actually filled with gorgeous beaches, historic landmarks, phenomenal food and absolutely vibrant culture. The markets, or shucks as they’re called, are a must visit for those looking for fresh local produce. Besides Tel Aviv, Israel is home to numerous touristic locations, including the world famous Kotel, or the Wailing Wall, the hike and jeep friendly Golan mountains, food-savvy Jaffa and Eilat, known for its out of this world beaches and unmistakably hippy vibe.
5. Sydney, Australia
Sydney is home to over a hundred different beaches, ranging from a few feet to a couple of kilometers long. The Palm Beach is a personal favorite of both locals and tourists, while the more intimate Clovelly Beach is more family-friendly. Shark Beach, on the other hand, offers the single most amazing view of Sydney’s Harbour Bridge that will surely leave you in awe. Besides its numerous beaches, Sydney is actually considered to be a culinary mecca for food enthusiasts.
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy the freshest seasonal produce in a Wes-Anderson-inspired locale, then look no further than Della Hyde. The vintage-looking setting is ideal not only for small families due to a rather large and inexpensive menu but also for couples who’d like to down a couple of cocktails before heading out for a fun night around the town.
These five locations are just some of the most interesting, yet slightly alternative location throughout the world you definitely need to consider visiting during a deserved break from work. Each of them is absolutely magnificent, a fact which is confirmed by millions of people who are lining up to visit them each year. Whichever you end up choosing, know that you will not be making a mistake.