Photo by Chris Lawton on Unsplash
You need to get out of here for a while! You’ve worked hard all year and barely survived crushing exams. It’s time to take a vacation and celebrate your successes – as well as take your mind off of all the things that have stressed you out. Call up your friends and pick a destination, because it’s time to let loose.
1. Cancun
Cancun is the place to go if you want to experience the best of Mexico. Of course there are tons of coastal bars and eateries, and you’d be a fool not to try as many different tacos as possible. While the food is great, there’s way more to Cancun. There’s an underwater museum – yes, an underwater museum – beneath the sea. This art exhibition of statues on the ocean floor is designed to encourage the growth of coral. It might take a while, but it’s on its way to becoming the most fascinating reef in the world.
2. Amsterdam
Bike riding, beer tasting, and tours through history are all part of everyday life in Amsterdam. You’ll have to try raw herring from the many herring carts that line the street – it’s their most popular street food, and it’s more delicious than you think. Visit the historic Anne Frank house, and gain some valuable insights into the past.
3. The Australian Islands
Cruises are a popular way to take a break. Most people cruise to Alaska or the Bahamas, but you can break the mold. Hop on one of P&O Australia’s cruises from Melbourne, and cruise the Aussie islands. Hit up Kangaroo Island for some fun explorations, and more importantly, some awesome kangaroos. You won’t be able to have an experience quite like that back on the mainland!
4. Las Vegas
Everyone should go to Vegas at least once. It’s best to go when you’re over 21 – that removes a lot of the age restrictions imposed by many of the attractions on the Vegas strip. Las Vegas isn’t necessarily a very expensive place to be. As long as you don’t gamble too much, you’ll be able to stick to your budget. There are plenty of places to eat and drink for free or cheap, and you’ll find them if you play your cards right.
5. Brazil
Brazil is a very adventurous place for the brave and athletic to visit. There are mountains and waterfalls everywhere. Climb, swim, run, explore, and set your spirit free. If you’re brave enough, you can go rafting or hang gliding across the landscape. If you need a little mental stimulation, Brazil is really big on their history. Explore the Paratay Historic District, or view the artifacts at the Instituto Ricardo Brennand.
6. New York
If you’ve never taken on the Big Apple, now’s as good a time as any. People come from all over the world to visit New York City. Every pizzeria in New York claims it serves the best pizza in the world, and you can be the judge of that. Many national brands have their flagship stores or headquarters in New York, so the shopping is great. Treat yourself to something you’ve always wanted – you’ve busted your behind on schoolwork.
7. Scandinavia
When most people travel to Europe, they stick to London, Paris, and Dublin. If you’re looking for a more unique European vacation, think outside of the box. Stockholm, Oslo, and Copenhagen are waiting for you. Scandinavia isn’t like the rest of Europe – the architecture, scenery, and way of living are all very different. It’s a breath of fresh air for the traveller who wants to experience something new.
It’s time to call up your friends and peers and ask them what they’re doing for the summer. It might be hard to pick a place that everyone can agree on, but there’s always next year as well!
This article was contributed by guest author Rachel Jackson.