Summer Travel Guide: Put These Destinations On Your Radar
Summer time is coming and we are counting down the days to coolers full of Boochcraft, swimsuits, toes in the sand, and picnics in the park. Whether your ideal vacation includes luscious nature, a quaint small town, or an action packed city--we all strive for the same high: freedom! Check out our 2019 summer vacation picks and start saving your vacation days now.
Coeur d'Alene, Idaho
The Coeur d’Alene area is surrounded by dozens of lakes left behind by the glaciers from the ice age. WHAT!!! There are more than 55 lakes within easy driving distance of Coeur d’Alene, but none more scenic and full of activities than Lake Coeur d’Alene itself. There is an underlying magic about Lake Coeur d’Alene that’s hard to define, but starts with the spectacular North Idaho sunsets and moonrises, natural wildlife and animals, and the glowing lights of downtown Coeur d’Alene reflecting across its waters at night. (https://www.coeurdalene.org/)
Santa Catalina Island, California
Available only by boat, Catalina Island is a must, especially to Southern California residents. A rare gem, this island has a rich history and fun facts that includes buffalo inhibiting the island, the 1981 mysterious death of Hollywood's Natalie Wood, and 25-year waiting list to own a car on the island. Visit the islands famous town of Avalon, where most people get around on foot, bicycle, or golf cart. Though there are many beautiful resorts to choose from, camping on the island is also an option. Activities on the island include glass bottom boat tours (think shipwrecks and reefs!), scuba diving and snorkeling, and drives to Lover's Cove, Descanso Beach, and to the east of Avalon. Plus, you can bring Boochcraft here! (sources)
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Located in mountainous northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a colorful city with a lot of culture. With a slew of temples to explore, museums to visit, street markets to shop, and a flavorful cuisine to explore, you will very likely run out of things to do here. Interested in learning? Thai cooking classes are available to tourists as well as Thai Massage. More of the outdoorsy type? Venture on the cities many hikes to see beautiful views or visit the Elephant Sanctuary.
Chicago, Illinois
Dubbed "the windy city", summer is definitely the best time to visit Chicago. Because of the long cold winters this city endures, the summers erupt in celebration. Explore the many eclectic neighborhoods, dive into the dynamic food scene, swim in Lake Michigan, or visit one of the many museums. We highly recommend taking the elevator to the top of the John Hancock Building for it's magnificent views and for the thrill of the building gently swaying back and forth from the 96th floor. Plus, the people here are pretty dang nice.
Seaside, Oregon
Yes, this is the town the last scene in The Goonies was filmed! So, it already has that going on. Seaside is a small resort city in northwestern Oregon. Come stay here for an oceanside retreat to explore the peaceful beaches, cute restaurants and shops, and foresty hikes, farm to table seafood, World War II trivia, vintage aquariums, and its moody postcard complexion (https://www.thrillist.com/lifestyle/portland/things-to-do-in-seaside-oregon).
Tel Aviv, Israel
Titled the ‘Mediterranean Capital of Cool’ by the New York Times, this is a 24 hour city with a unique pulse, combining sandy Mediterranean beaches with a world-class nightlife, a buzzing cultural scene, incredible food, UNESCO recognized architecture, and an international outlook (source).
Charleston, South Carolina
Historic Charleston is bursting with Southern charm and hospitality. The city feels a bit like it’s suspended in time, thanks to its antebellum architecture and surrounding plantation landscapes. Take in incredible views of the Battery and the French Quarter as you stroll the Waterfront Park, then become inspired by the cultivated beauty of the gardens at Middleton Place. At night, try a ghost tour for an introduction to the spooky side of the city (source).
Amsterdam, Netherlands
This city, full of colorful homes, canals and bridges, is one of Europe's most picturesque capitals. Must-sees on any visitor's itinerary include the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum and the world's only floating flower market. Rent a bike and join thousands of locals navigating Amsterdam's labyrinthine streets, or just take in the sights on foot. For an unusual and memorable alternative to hotels, consider staying in a houseboat (source).
Napa Valley, California
More than 400 wineries dot the fertile soils of Napa Valley, one of the world’s premier wine regions and famous for its prized Cabernet Sauvignon. Stroll through the vineyards, talk with the winemaker, or sip award-winning wines with dramatic views of the valley floor. Discover incredible tasting experiences that go beyond the norm when you visit the wineries of Napa Valley. Other activities besides wine drinking are reclining poolside at a lavish resort, eating at top-rated restaurants, or taking to the skies with a balloon ride.