Not Another Euro Summer: My Top 5 Destinations You Should Go Instead
By: Sadie | See with Sadie
Don't get me wrong… I love a classic Euro summer, but there's something about exploring the unique destinations across the other continents that just inspires me. There's so much of the world beyond the usual hotspots, and I love discovering new cultures, experiencing breathtaking landscapes, and going on those once-in-a-lifetime trips.
Here are my top five destinations I'd love to see you add to your travel list!
Peru
Peru is a dream destination for anyone who loves a mix of adventure, history, culture, and incredible scenery. Home to ancient Incan ruins, colorful markets, dramatic mountain landscapes, and some of South America's most recognizable landmarks, it's a destination that offers something new around every corner.
My Must-Dos:
Machu Picchu: Explore one of the world's most iconic archaeological wonders, surrounded by the breathtaking peaks of the Andes. Whether you take the train and shuttle or hike the surrounding trails, this is an unforgettable bucket-list experience.
Rainbow Mountain: Take in the striking, multicolored mountain landscapes of Vinicunca. The high-altitude trek is challenging, but the scenery is unlike anything else.
Sacred Valley: Discover traditional Andean villages, ancient ruins, and beautiful mountain scenery throughout this historically significant region.
Humantay Lake: Visit a stunning turquoise glacial lake surrounded by towering mountains. It's a spectacular stop for anyone who loves dramatic natural landscapes.
San Pedro Market: Experience everyday life in Cusco while browsing local produce, traditional foods, textiles, and handmade goods.
Coricancha: Explore this important Incan temple in Cusco, where Incan history and Spanish colonial architecture come together.
China
China is a destination that deserves far more attention on your bucket list. From one of the world's most famous historical landmarks to futuristic city skylines and dramatic natural landscapes, the country offers an incredible contrast between ancient history and modern life.
My Must-Dos:
The Great Wall of China: Walk along one of the most extraordinary historical structures in the world. With its winding pathways and mountain views, visiting the Great Wall is a true bucket-list moment.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: See the towering sandstone pillars that inspired the floating mountains in Avatar. This otherworldly landscape features dramatic cliffs, scenic viewpoints, and incredible opportunities for photography.
Shanghai: Experience a completely different side of China, from the futuristic skyline of Pudong to the historic architecture along the Bund. Add in street food, shopping, and vibrant neighborhoods for the perfect city adventure.
Xi'an: If time allows, visit the famous Terracotta Army, an extraordinary collection of thousands of life-sized figures created to guard China's first emperor in the afterlife.
Travel tip: China is massive, so you'll want to plan your route carefully. Beijing, Zhangjiajie, Shanghai, and Xi'an are best approached as a multi-stop itinerary with enough time for transportation between destinations.
Tanzania
Imagine spending your morning watching elephants roam across the savanna, your afternoon spotting wildlife on safari, and your next few days unwinding beside the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Tanzania offers a remarkable combination of wildlife, adventure, and tropical relaxation.
My Must-Dos:
Go on safari: Experience Africa's incredible wildlife in its natural habitat. From elephants and giraffes to lions and zebras, a safari is an opportunity to witness some of the world's most remarkable animals up close. The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are two standout places to consider.
Zanzibar: After your safari, head to Zanzibar for white-sand beaches, beautiful turquoise water, and a slower pace of life.
Explore Stone Town: Wander through Zanzibar's historic center, known for its winding streets, bustling markets, carved wooden doors, and blend of African, Arab, Indian, and European influences.
Enjoy the Indian Ocean: Spend time snorkeling, exploring the coastline, enjoying a boat excursion, or simply relaxing on the beach after days of adventure.
Türkiye
Türkiye is a destination where extraordinary landscapes, rich history, incredible food, and cultural experiences come together. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the surreal scenery of Cappadocia, it's a trip that offers a little bit of everything.
My Must-Dos:
Istanbul: Discover the city's historic mosques, lively bazaars, waterfront neighborhoods, and incredible food scene. Visit iconic landmarks such as Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, wander through the Grand Bazaar, and enjoy the views along the Bosphorus.
Hot-air balloon ride: One of the region's most iconic experiences is watching the sunrise over its unusual rock formations and fairy chimneys from a hot-air balloon, weather permitting.
Stay in a cave hotel: Make the experience even more memorable by staying in one of Cappadocia's distinctive cave-style accommodations.
Explore the valleys: Spend time discovering the region's unique rock formations, scenic viewpoints, and ancient cave churches.
Vietnam
Vietnam is an incredible option for those who want to experience a destination through its food, culture, natural beauty, and vibrant cities. From bustling streets filled with motorbikes to peaceful countryside landscapes and dramatic limestone formations, Vietnam offers an exciting mix of experiences.
My Must-Dos:
Cruise through Ha Long Bay: See the towering limestone islands rising from emerald-green water on a boat excursion or overnight cruise.
Explore Hanoi: Wander through the Old Quarter, sample authentic Vietnamese cuisine, enjoy a traditional egg coffee, and experience the energy of the city's busy streets.
Visit Hoi An: Discover the charming lantern-lit streets, historic architecture, riverside cafés, and colorful markets of this beautiful town.
Explore the countryside: Depending on your itinerary, consider the rice terraces and mountain scenery of northern Vietnam or the waterways and floating markets of the Mekong Delta.
Travel tip: Vietnam's weather varies significantly by region and season, so plan your route around the time of year you're visiting.
Where Will You Go Next?
There's nothing wrong with a summer in Europe. But the world is so much bigger than one region, and some of the most memorable trips are the ones that take you somewhere unexpected.
Want Me to Plan Your Next Trip?
At See With Sadie, I help travelers turn their dream destinations into thoughtfully planned travel experiences, from custom itineraries to unforgettable bucket-list adventures.
Let's find the destination that's right for you!
Ready to start planning?
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