Spring Forward By Planning Your Summer Vacation
The calendar may still say its winter, but for anyone thinking about a summer trip with the family, now is the time to start planning. In addition to getting the selection of the best flights and accommodations, booking early also allows plenty of time to research your destination and maximize your time while there. And the earlier you start making plans, the better, as rates are only going to go up.
And if you don’t have a destination in mind already, the experts at Avondale Travel have some suggestions to get you started.
Touring the Eiffel Tower with Family
Oh, Paris. You had us at “bonjour.”
One of the most visited cities—in THE most visited country in the world—the City of Light attracts lovers of fashion, art, history, food, culture, and love from around the globe, so it should come as no surprise Paris is a top destination for discerning travelers in 2023.
What may not be as obvious, however, is the city’s wide appeal to families. From touring the Eiffel Tower and any of its 150+ museums (don’t forget to say hi to Mona Lisa) to taking a cruise on the Seine or exploring 450 parks and gardens, one should never be bored in Paris.
Summer remains the most popular time of year to visit Paris, and savvy travelers know to book travel plans as soon as possible.
Pasta Making in Puglia
Gelato and Vespas and Vineyards, Oh, My!
Thanks to the popularity of HBO’s hit “White Lotus” there hasn’t been this much pop culture interest in Italy since “The Godfather.” While you can’t go wrong with Rome, Venice, or Sicily, there’s another area that’s equally as culturally enriching and breathtaking—that also happens to be considerably less expensive and less crowded than its better-known counterparts.
Located in the southern peninsular region of Italy, Puglia is considered one of the richest archaeological regions in Italy with elaborate cathedrals, theaters, castles, battle ruins, and temples (some, like the Temple of Poseidon, dating back to the 6th century B.C.).
Other highlights for families traveling to Puglia include San Domino’s beaches; The Grotte di Castellana, one of the most impressive cave systems in Italy with its observatory (above ground, of course); the Fasano Safari Zoo; zipline adventures; and Puglia’s delicious Southern Italian cuisine and wine. But don’t be late for dinner. Book your trip to Puglia now.
Sunshine in the City of Saints.
Getty Images
They don’t call Canada “The Great White North” for nothing.
Maybe it’s the proximity to the U.S. that makes it easy to overlook as a vacation destination, but Canada, Montreal in particular, is certainly underrated as a vacation destination for families.
As the second largest city in the country, Montreal, Quebec, is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a truly multicultural experience (French is the province's official language) without lengthy flights or dreaded jet lag. Summer is the perfect time to appreciate Montreal’s verdant spaces (Mount Royal Park is a must-see) and unique architecture via a St. Lawrence River cruise or a personal guided walking tour. Attractions like the Montreal Botanic Garden, Barbie Expo, Montreal Expo Dome, museums, and La Ronde amusement park provide opportunities for everyone to enjoy; just don’t wait to book.
Dublin's Temple Bar.
Richard James Taylor
Green With Envy Over Ireland
From the lush rolling fields of the greenest grass you’ve ever seen to the hustle and bustle of Dublin, Ireland is a country of contrasts, which is especially convenient when planning a trip that interests the whole family.
National wonders like the Cliffs of Moher and Killarney National Park, ancient castles, including Blarney Castle (don’t forget to kiss the Blarney Stone for luck!) are must-sees on the Emerald Isle, as well as attractions like the Dublin Zoo and National Museum of Ireland. “Game of Thrones” fans will also appreciate the plethora of shooting locations (Tollymore Forest Park, The Dark Hedges, and Castle Ward, to name a few). And what would a trip to Ireland be without a visit to the Guinness Storehouse, Jameson Distillery, or any neighborhood pub?
Just don’t be an eedjit and wait too long to start planning.
Argentina's Patagonia
Head South … Way South
…to South America! While 12 countries comprise the continent, Argentina stands out as one of the most underrated vacation spots for 2023. The second largest country in South America, Argentina encompasses a vast history dating back to 10,000 B.C. As the birthplace of tango, dance, and music are inextricably woven into the culture of Argentina. It also has one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world ranging from spectacular rainforests and the arid Pampas to the tallest mountains in the Americas. (Adventurous types and nature lovers should not miss Patagonia, a region at the southern tip of the continent where you might just spot a killer whale, Magellanic penguin, or a South American cougar.)
Maybe sports are more your thing? Argentina is a soccer (aka fútbol) haven, though, its national sport is pato, a mash-up of polo and basketball. And don’t forget the world-famous Argentinian wine.
With so much to do and see, Argentina is a perfect vacation spot for families, and one to start planning now.
Ready to start planning? Contact us for more information and potential perks!
