The summer season is a booming time for travel as visitors plan their trips to warm destinations in hopes of taking advantage of the weather. But, as some of the popular European and U.S. destinations continue to experience unseasonably warm summers, some travelers have realized that they aren’t cut out for the dog days.
In an effort to beat the heat while still enjoying a summer trip with the same classic summertime activities, the demand for “coolcations” — aka travel to cooler destinations — is on the rise. Google Trends data even noted a 300% increase for search terms like “cooler holidays” compared to this time last year. Considered to be better for family travel, boasting less crowds and of course, offering a break from the sweltering sun, these five coolcation destinations are gaining significant traction this summer.
Reykjavík, Iceland
What kind of coolcation inspiration list would this be without including the beloved Land of Fire and Ice? With an average summer temperature of 55 degrees Fahrenheit, travel here is perfect because of course, the weather is moderate, but also because visitors don’t have to worry about the unpredictable winter elements closing roads and cancelling their plans, a common concern for those later months.
Just because a visit to Reykjavík offers some cooler temperatures, doesn’t mean travelers have to sacrifice participating in some of their favorite summer activities. The Innipukinn Festival is the perfect opportunity to rock out to some good tunes while celebrations for Iceland’s National Day offer lively parades, family time, community events and even carnival rides. Plus, with countless geothermal pools in the area, visitors shouldn’t count out the chance to swim either.
Banff, Canada
Defining the range of what constitutes cool weather can be tricky, but for some, an average temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit is exactly the conditions they’re looking for. A resort town located in Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada, the area is ideal for visitors looking to experience all the fun summer activities have to offer in a milder climate. Hiking, canoeing, horseback riding and whitewater rafting are popular options for guests who want to get outside and explore the landscape without the unrelenting sun beating down on them.
For the rookie and veteran golfers, kicking back and enjoying a day at the Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course is another unique opportunity presented here as the course is highly celebrated for its beauty. Sprawling mountains surround the area, serene wildlife roams free and the bright, earthy color palette of the terrain is sure to transport visitors to a world of naturalistic bliss.
Edinburgh, Scotland
A destination continuing to grow in popularity, a trip to Edinburgh is sure to be a fun one. Some of the largest performing arts festivals in the world take place during the summertime as the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Edinburgh International Festival draw in hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. And, as the city has an average summer temperature of 66 degrees Fahrenheit, enjoying the numerous operas, ballets, musicals, comedy shows and exhibitions is no sweat.
In addition to the lively performing arts festivals that transform the historic city, the Royal Highland Show is Scotland’s largest agricultural event. Showcasing the best of agriculture and rural life, visitors can watch livestock compete in show jumping, traditional skill displays and the Golden Shears World Sheep Shearing & Woolhandling Championships. Local vendors are sure to supply the attendees with plenty of delicious food too.
Juneau, Alaska
The Last Frontier may not be first on everyone’s summer bucket list, but it’s certainly a top contender for a coolcation. With an average temperature of 62 degrees Fahrenheit, Alaska’s rugged landscape comes alive during the summer months. Visitors looking to catch a glimpse of one of the state’s many natural phenomena are just in time to witness the salmon run, an annual migration of a variety of salmon species. Whale watching is another must-see event in the summer as thousands of whales migrate back to Alaska after wintering in Hawai’i.
With the cooler weather in Juneau, travelers should consider other outdoor activities like hiking around the famed Mendenhall Glacier, which is known for its stunning blue waters and aesthetic appeal.
Finland
A little less specific than the other destinations, Finland in its entirety meets the coolcation qualifications. The average summer temperature here sits around 68 degrees Fahrenheit, though the southern parts are known to be slightly warmer. Like most places, fun summer music festivals are in abundance with beloved Ruisrock in Turku and Flow Festival in Helsinki being especially noteworthy. Midsummer festivities should not be overlooked either, as locals everywhere celebrate the summer solstice with lively dancing and singing with all their closest friends and family. Hiking and late-night kayaking under the Midnight Sun also prove to be unique experiences while exploration of the Finnish archipelago with its coastal cities, historic manors and national parks is experienced best with the mild weather.
About the Author
comments