Author: Carter Lowry

Are you wondering the best places for summer travel in 2024?

Summer, the season of sun-kissed days and balmy evenings, beckons travelers with its promise of adventure and discovery. As we enter 2024, a world of possibilities unfolds for those with an insatiable wanderlust. Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or a novice explorer, Summer 2024 offers an array of tantalizing destinations and experiences waiting to be explored.

Discover Hidden Gems

In this guide, we journeyed through the top places to visit, the hidden gems to uncover, and the adventures that await in the summer of 2024. From pristine beaches and lush national parks to vibrant cities and cultural festivals, this summer promises to be a canvas of memories waiting to be painted.

Join us as we traverse continents, dive into crystal-clear waters, savor exotic cuisines, and immerse ourselves in the rich tapestry of cultures that make our world so diverse. Summer Travel 2024 is a chance to reconnect with nature, create lasting memories, and capture the essence of our planet’s beauty.

So, pack your bags, don your sun hat, and prepare for a summer filled with wonder and exploration. The world is waiting, and Summer 2024 is your ticket to unforgettable adventures and timeless stories.

Welcome Back Vagabonds!

Welcome to “Atypical Vagabond,” a portal to a realm where boundaries blur and conventional paths diverge. Here, we delve into the world of unconventional exploration and celebrate the art of wandering without constraints. Join us as we uncover hidden gems, unravel the tales of unconventional nomads, and delve into the transformative experiences that await those who dare to embrace the call of wanderlust.

A strong desire for freedom often arises in a busy world of daily routines and societal pressures. We become fascinated by the exciting appeal of unfamiliar places, the mysterious call of undiscovered destinations, and the life-changing influence of travel. In these instances, we awaken the spirit of the unconventional traveler — the wanderer who desires to explore the world and embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal freedom.

Summer Travel in 2024

• Stay Home
• The Maritime Provinces, Canada
• The Caribbean
• Riviera Nayarit, Mexico
• Portugal
• Costa Rica
• Italy
• Tanzania
• Thailand
• Australia
• Scotland

After being locked in a home, many travelers are gearing up to fix their wanderlust. So, what is the best summer destination in 2024?

Rather than qualifying the following must-see destinations, we put together a list of goals we hope to visit this coming year, or maybe the next, as we become more ready to fly.

Air travel will be regulated by each country’s rules regarding their reopenings. The following destinations are composed to rise from the ashes of the dumpster fire known as 2020. Some of these travel destinations are classic locations worth fresh eyes. Others are countries championing social and environmental justice. 

We hope our list of where we hope to go in 2024 will inspire you to plan a visit, too. So here is our list.

Stay Home

What a great way to begin a list, right? We understand it is buzzkill to start a dream-stoking list with a plea to stay home. Hear us out, though. Sometimes, the best destination is home. Consider exploring your local treasures and creating memorable staycations in your backyard during the summer of 2024.

We are compelled to travel as much as the next person. We understand the end of the pandemic is in sight. The reality is we might need to hunker down longer than expected. We must do our part to protect our high-risk neighbors, friends, and family members.

Support Your Local Economy

 In the meantime, we can purchase gift cards to keep our favorite restaurants afloat during prolonged closures. Buying hotel bonds at our favorite getaways will help ensure they will be ready to welcome us back once global travel clicks back on. Order a barrel of your favorite Kentucky Bourbon if it is what it will take to get you to your next available travel date.

When international travel gets the green light, we can begin revenge travel to compensate for last year’s dry spell. It is worth keeping these international destinations on your 2021 bucket lists. 

All of us are asking, “When can we travel abroad again?” Once we can travel, how will trips change in late 2024? The strong desire to travel might make crowds swell at past popular destinations.

One thing we have learned this past year is the appreciation of a slower pace. The rest of our international 2024 destinations are classic bucket list adventures. Some goals are more mindful in engaging in the culture and ecology of a region instead of simply being a tourist for a few days.

The Maritime Provinces, Canada

We all heard about New Zealand and Australia’s impressive defense from the COVID-19 pandemic. We expect both countries to remain open for tourist travel in 2024. In the summer of 2024, Canada welcomes travelers with its pristine wilderness, from the rugged beauty of the Rockies to the tranquil shores of its countless lakes.

One country you may not have heard about fighting equally hard is our northern neighbors in Canada. They were quietly battling the pandemic with similar success. The Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador was able to shut itself away from the world quickly. 

The Maritimes provides travelers with what they’d expect to find along the fjords of Norway and the pastures of Ireland. Often overlooked for farther lands, one’s wanderlust can be fulfilled closer to home for a fraction of the price. 

Maritime Lodging

The Muir Hotel will be the first luxury property in Halifax, Nova Scotia’s capital. It is expected to open in November 2021. The city’s new Queen’s Marque district is gaining upmarket flair with this unique hotel. If this hotel perks your interest and you hate the cold, it might be best to put this location on your 2022 bucket list. 

Fogo Island Inn in Newfoundland is the region’s first high-end stay. Icebergs float from Greenland, and whales lobtail down the isolated harbor. 

While this region isn’t known for its high-end hotels, its tenacious dedication to small-batch is the best part. When tourism peaks, visitors will thoroughly enjoy the area’s finest attractions without the threat of crowds.

The Caribbean

It would be an understatement to state it’s been a lousy few years for the Caribbean. The region’s high seasons were plagued with Zika and COVID-19. They have also seen a surge in hurricanes. These disasters devastated several of the islands over the past few years. 

This next summer, explore the vibrant Caribbean islands in 2024, where azure waters, white sandy beaches, and a kaleidoscope of cultures beckon you to relax and indulge in paradise.

Le Guanahani, the island’s largest hotel in St. Barts, will complete its post-storm transformation this summer. 

In the meantime, Turks and Caicos emerged during the pandemic as a legitimate contender for the vacationing elite. They have some of the best socially distant villas in the area and a dreamy renovation of Amanyara’s legendary resort pavilions. The island chain is a single flight from the continental U.S. The single flight makes travel to Turks and Caicos easy.

Exploring Around St. Barts

While St. Barts Anguilla and other perennial favorites are at least two flight stops. Granted, these flights are made more accessible by the organization and convenience of Tradewind. 

St. Lucia deserves an honorable mention for its diligence in controlling COVID. Tourism is this island’s primary economic source. They have shown a commendable effort with the balance between allowing travelers in and nullifying the virus’s expansion.

Many of the lodgings use distance and airy spaces in their designs. Some modernist suites have a wall open to nature, allowing the island breezes to flow directly through the room.

For travelers needing to push the eject button, there is always Mustique in the Grenadines. This island has been relatively COVID-free throughout the whole pandemic. The only thing required for entry is a pre-departure swab and a test upon arrival. 

Riviera Nayarit, Mexico

Freedom from Cancun’s overcrowded beaches and Tulum’s predictability, one can enjoy the long strand of soft sand and seaside villages north of Puerto Vallarta. The western side of Mexico has a more grounded relationship with its environment and ancestry. These locations have grown organically over time as they embraced a laid-back feel.

As of this writing, Riviera Nayarit is in a yellow status. For updates, check out the CVB.

The surf town of Sayulita and the small village of Mexcaltitan are designated Pueblos Magicos. The government enshrined cultural significance as a means of preservation. 

Internation attention is causing this region to increase. The world’s luxury hotels responded to this interest by opening One&Only Mandarina. 

The  Four Seasons, St. Regis, Conrad, and W hotels also exist. It is rumored the Ritz-Carlton plans to open one of its acclaimed Reserve properties in 2022.

Portugal

Portugal was the first European Country to receive the ‘Safe Travels’ seal from the World Travel & Tourism Council.

Even with the whole pandemic COVID situation, Portugal continues to stand out for the best reasons. This country was the first European Country to receive the seal that recognizes destinations that comply with health and hygiene protocols in line with Safe Travel. So, Portugal is a safe country for your 2021 holiday.

Climate

Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, any time is perfect for visiting this wonderful country. It’s 1,794 km/ 1,115 mi. Coastline is positioned along the Atlantic Ocean. Portugal’s proximity to other European and African countries infused a unique European culture. Visit its beaches and do not miss a sunset in this country!

Our first thought when we talk about Portuguese wine is Port. Port wine is undoubtedly one of the most famous Portuguese wines, but it is just one of this vast and exquisite list. Besides its delicious flavor, these wines were born in the most elegant wine regions!  UNESCO declared Douro Valley a World Heritage Site. This made the Duoro Valley the first-ever wine region with a World Heritage designation. 

One of the best experiences in Portugal is hiking any of the beautiful paths. You can see fantastic scenery; it does not matter where in Portugal you are staying. This country has outstanding landscapes where you can do some adventurous traveling. 

You did not think in Portugal when the talk was about castles? That’s a mistake. Portugal has hundreds of impressive castles from all over the country. Visiting these castles can be an excellent destination for some castle-hopping. What do you think?

Costa Rica

Central America’s tourism pioneer, Costa Rica, has firmly established itself as one of the world’s great eco-tourism hotspots. Bolstered by a professional network of hospitals, Costa Rica now uses its clout to welcome tourists back with an open-door entry policy. 

For eco-adventurers, in summer travel in 2024, Costa Rica offers lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and thrilling outdoor activities in a biodiverse paradise. The catch to ‘Pura Vida’ is you will need travel insurance. Understand that infection rates in Costa Rica are rapidly rising.

While much of the country is open to tourism, some things are banned. Currently, the Costa Rican national parks and beaches are open. You must wait if you are interested in the nightclub and concert atmosphere. Both nightclubs and concerts are currently banned. There are some travel restrictions, such as no driving after 11 pm-6 am.

If you are looking for a beach getaway with flair, check out the Four Seasons Residences Prieta Bay at Four Seasons Papagayo. Here, you can find luxury rental-style bookings.

If a jungle destination packed with adventure and glamping is more your style, try out the new Six Senses Papagayo next year. This location will add a layer of splendor to the territory.

Italy

This year, it felt like Barilla and Ragu sponsored our quarantine. We became amateur Italian cooks as we learned to bake bread and forget how to unlock doors. Consider traveling to Italy in 2024. Each dinner made us long for days in Italy, even more than usual. Especially knowing a friend was locked down in his apartment in Italy. 

In 2024, we are dedicated to extending ourselves to the rural parts of this boot-shaped country. The country is still battling the virus, although it is partially open to tourism. Instead of clustering in the touristy spots that could be closed, plan trips off the beaten tourist paths. 

However, with its art, history, and culinary delights, Italy invites you to savor la dolce vita to travel in the summer of 2024, from the canals of Venice to the ruins of Rome.

Tanzania

Travel in the summer of 2024, Tanzania beckons with its iconic safaris, where you can witness the breathtaking wildebeest migration across the Serengeti plains, a true spectacle of nature. Tanzania’s natural splendor makes it Africa’s visual masterpiece. Observing the astounding excellent wildebeest migration to the seductive beaches and charming ancient towns creates a marvelous location for your next adventure. Enjoy the panoramic views in the Serengeti. 

If you need to channel your inner Indiana Jones, archaeological sites and geological wonders exist to explore. No Tanzanian adventure can be complete without visiting Africa’s highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro. This mountain rises from lush, grassy plains and towers over the land.

Tanzanian Safari Operators

Singita is a premier safari operator in Tanzania. They make a vigorous effort to strip away colonial Britain’s embedded decor. An industry-wide aim is to unify the local economy by preventing wealth from leaving the area.

Nomad Tanzania’s microloans project enables guides to purchase vehicles outright. This program is a commendable step in this direction. 

Nnko & Smith has a compact between Deeper Africa (an American safari operator) and local Tanzanian guides. This new standard of putting tourism dollars directly in the hands of Africans is ideal. Their first project is a new route up to the top of Kilimanjaro. This route steers hikers clear of the customary crowds. 

During the birthing season of the wildebeest migration, only a few mobile camps will be set up in the Serengeti National Park. I suggest acting fast if this has always been on your bucket list. A few remaining beds are available to allow you to be virtually alone as hordes of wildebeests drop their young.

Bangkok, Thailand

The hospitality in Thailand is something extraordinary, like Italy is to Europe. The perfect introduction to exploring Asia has lured our imagination. The announcement of visa exemptions available to U.S. travelers for long-term stays of up to 90 days is enticing. 

Make your travel in the Summer of 2024 to Thailand. The destination invites you to explore bustling markets, ancient temples, and pristine beaches, offering a delightful blend of cultural immersion and tropical relaxation.

Vaccinated travelers can currently visit after being quarantined for seven days and then allowed to visit other destinations. On July 1st, phase 2 of tourism reopening enabled Phuket to be the first destination to lift quarantine requirements. Here, you can find a guide to Thailand’s expected phase reopenings.

When the borders reopen, I highly suggest heading directly to Bangkok. Enjoy your seven-day quarantine near the new riverside district that hosts the Capella Bangkok or Four Seasons Bangkok at Chao Phraya. 

After eating through the city’s signature street food, hit up at least one of Bangkok’s cosmopolitan foodie scene showcases. If time is a constraint in your travels, there are 29 Michelin restaurants in Thailand. 

Southeast Asia has also done a remarkable job (relative to our corner of the world) in reducing the devastating spread of the coronavirus. While borders have been closed, some locations have returned to semblances of normalcy. 

Smiling Albino has refreshed its itineraries in Vietnam. They are known in the region for beating untrodden trails through some of the most overlooked destinations in the area. Check out Zannier Hotels’ newest property Bai San Ho, located on the pristine beaches of Phu Yen Province.

Meanwhile, the British company InsideAsia Tours has developed several Malaysian itineraries exploring the peninsular provinces. If you are interested in partaking in the lifestyle where chic men and women go on holiday, like in “Crazy Rich Asians,” book a tour.

Australia

Australia’s Aboriginal communities mirrored the United State’s calls from the Black Lives Matter campaign to reestablish their rightful claim to the continent. They saw significant groundswell as the tenets of Indigenous life began to emerge in mainstream conversations.

Experience the Land Down Under’s captivating landscapes during your travel during the summer of 2024, from the stunning Great Barrier Reef to the vast deserts of the Outback, offering a unique mix of adventure and natural beauty.

Cultural exchange has occurred in many aspects of Australia. Restaurants are beginning to use local ingredients, or “bush tucker,” to amplify their recipes. The contemporary art scene is embracing Aboriginal artists. Even the travel industry has noted that it has become a funnel for delivering funds to these indigenous communities.

The Wukalina Walk gives guests invaluable insight into local lore and traditions. Take a four-day walkabout through Tasmania’s lichen-red Bay of Fires.

Intrepid Travel offers a multiday tour in Queensland. Travel through the hallowed Daintree tropical forests. Here, guests can partake in an Aboriginal painting class. As you are painting, you can listen to ancient native Australian creation myths. 

The red sands of Uluru meet the turquoise sea in Western Australia. Wula Gura Nyinda Eco Cultural Adventures will entertain you in Francois Peron National Park. They offer such activities as kayaking, SUP tours, and 4WD adventures.

 Scotland

After binge-watching Bridgerton and The Crown, we undoubtedly have the U.K. on the brain. Scotland is an ideal way to orient old-world glamor with otherworldly landscapes. Make Scotland your travel destination for summer travel in 2024.

Belmond’s first luxury train, the Royal Scotsman, is positioned to return to the remote Scottish lochs and fjords. The Cameron House on Loch Lomond has bookings available as early as August. Visiting this is a must as they recently reopened after a sensitive restoration. 

Edinburgh’s East End got a boost with the unveiling the new St James Quarter. Red Carnation opened its first Scottish property, 100 Princes Street, across town. 

So go out and visit one of these spots! Leave a comment below with your best spots to visit. Check out other blog posts here.

Atypical Last Thoughts

As we draw the curtain on our journey through the top destinations for Summer 2024, we find ourselves standing at the threshold of endless possibilities. The world beckons with open arms, offering a vibrant tapestry of experiences and adventures waiting to be embraced.

The choices are as diverse as the colors of a summer sunset. From the sun-soaked beaches of the Caribbean to the enchanting historic cities of Europe, from the wild wonders of national parks to the serene tranquility of island getaways, Summer 2024 promises a spectrum of experiences to suit every traveler’s heart.

Ignite your Passion

In making your decision, consider your passions and dreams. Do you yearn for the thrill of exploration in exotic lands, the allure of cultural immersion, or the serenity of nature’s embrace? This summer is your canvas, waiting for the strokes of your imagination to craft a masterpiece of unforgettable memories.

Wherever you choose to travel in Summer 2024, remember that it’s not just about the destination; it’s about the journey. It’s about the moments you’ll cherish, the people you’ll meet, and the stories you’ll collect along the way.

So, embark on your summer adventure with enthusiasm and an open heart. Whether you’re heading to distant shores or exploring your backyard, let the spirit of exploration guide you. As the sun sets each day of your journey, may it illuminate your path to new horizons and everlasting memories. Summer 2024 awaits—where will your adventure take you?

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