It appears that summer is now with us, despite the weather’s best ideas of arguing this case, so it’s a time for us all to be thinking of our holidays. It almost seems there are innumerable options where to go, what to do, how to travel and what to see when we are there. After a few years of manic holidays and big trips, I think this year we will be running away from it all and escaping to somewhere idyllic, peaceful, away from the hustle and bustle.
I’ve been looking into where to go and have found five perfect destinations, off the beaten track and just what I may be looking for….
1. The Maldives
I could have almost picked any of the picture-perfect escape islands; crystal clear waters, white sand, wooden huts and almost nobody to disturb you. But the Maldives have always intrigued me; I want to stay in a hut sat on stilts out in the middle of the water, with nothing but the Indian Ocean and white sandy islands around me. Almost the true island castaway holiday, I can imagine you may be able to stay and not even see another holiday maker your entire stay. Surely the greatest form of holiday escape?
2. Lake Garda
One for the big budgets here; popular with a-list celebrities and royalty alike, in Northern Italy nestled in between ornamental gardens, snow-topped mountains & lush hillsides. Providing food & drink only Italy knows how to, a perfect place to relax and see the other half live, sampling the finest side of life. Luxury at its very best, if I can afford it I’ll be crazy not to go!
3. Cuba
A solid favourite for us, having already visited a few years ago. I know staying in an all-inclusive resort cannot necessarily be described as ‘escaping’ but it’s the peace and quiet I’d go here for. When lying on the golden beach you’d be hard pushed to hear anything other than the lapping of the ocean. I think the country has an effect on people to turn their volume down; nobody was exerting themselves or making much noise! Compliment this with fantastic local food and never-ending cocktails, peace and quiet at its best. I know I said I’d probably go here next on a cruise holiday while passing through, but I may jump ship and not leave, I love this country so much!
4. The Lake District
Not the most glamorous of destinations, I grant you, but it’s the British countryside. For me, this can be an inspiring, peaceful place to stay. I don’t even think you need sunny weather to enjoy the Lakes, sitting outside a quiet pub with a pint of ale in your hand, listening to the wildlife and the world go by. No wonder so many great poets and writers such as Wordsworth have been inspired here.
5. Santorini
This has been sold to me by a close friend, who always goes towards the end of the summer, when it’s still nice and warm, but there are fewer tourists. Island holidays are the perfect escape and this is no different; idyllic scenery, famous white buildings on black sandy beaches, again coupled with amazing Greek food and drink. Probably the busiest of my five choices, a lively area but with enough quiet little caves, beaches and sightseeing spots to be able to run away should the need arise.
All I need now is my bags packed and a quiet corner to sit in once I’m there. This may sound boring and dull to some, we all need a little escapism once in a while, why not actually use your holiday for what it’s intended and relax!
Where do you want to escape for Summer?
The summer escapes you have written about sound so inviting especially when in winter time here.