Why go: San Francisco is one of the best vacation spots
in the world at any time of the year. But it really shines in the
summer, with comfortable temperatures and a fun atmosphere. Crowds can
make sightseeing a bit annoying, but not to an unreasonable level. Note:
If you're looking for a California beach experience, you'll be better
served by Southern California -- Los Angeles and San Diego, in particular.
Why go: If you're looking to add some pizzazz to your
beach vacation, Mykonos is the place to go. This little island in the
Mediterranean is Greece's party central, where bars, clubs and beach
parties thrive until the small hours of the morning. On this island, a
day at the shore isn't just a luxury, it's a must for those looking to
save their energy for sundown. While you can easily spend a week here on
the beach or touring the cultural sites, Mykonos also makes for a great
stop if you're looking to island-hop across the Greek Isles.
Nice
Why go: When it comes to soaking up the sun in the lap
of luxury, there's no better place than the French Riviera. Perched on
the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, Nice makes for a great home base for
a Riviera getaway. If you tire of Nice's museums, shops, sidewalk cafés
and pebbly beaches, Cannes, Antibes, Valbonne and Monaco are just a
short train ride away. Just make sure to bring your credit card -- as a
favorite summer haunt among celebrities including the Beckhams and
Jennifer Lopez, vacations in Nice and along the French Riviera can be
expensive.
Maui
Why go: For miles of soft, multi-colored beaches and
mind-boggling scenery, Maui is the destination of choice. Spend your
vacation watching humpback whales, hiking through the lush Haleakala
National Park or being pampered at one of the islands many tranquil
spas. If you grow tired of the beach, spend some time exploring one of
the islands funky villages or take a drive along the renowned Road to
Hana. No matter how you choose to pass the time, save some energy for
after sundown, when some of Hawaii's best nighttime hotspots come to
life.
Paris
Why go: What can be said about Paris that hasn't
already been said? It is the "City of Lights" as well as the "City of
Love," but perhaps, more importantly, "Just a Really Great Place to Take
a Vacation Anytime." Visiting here in the summer does have its cons,
primarily in the form of an army of tourists descending on the city. But
we feel that the excellent weather more than makes up for it.
Additionally, Paris is a great base of operations for those doing an
extended tour of Europe in the summer -- beautiful beach destinations
are only a scenic train ride or a short flight away.
Los Angeles
Why go: We can't advise you to visit Los Angeles in the
summer for the weather, as the weather is almost always ridiculously
awesome in this city. However, with that being said, there is just
something about L.A. in the summer that is a classic American
experience. Taking in the Venice Beach scene on bike paths on a rented beach cruiser, strolling around the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica, sunbathing on Manhattan Beach and about a million other options make a summer trip to L.A. an annual tradition for many.
Why go: Now that the chilly winter breezes have passed,
Montreal is a great choice for travelers looking for a taste of
European culture without the trans-Atlantic flight. Fascinating historic
sites, hundreds of shopping venues, world-class eateries and a
pulsating nightlife scene will keep you busy for at least a week. And if
you find yourself growing weary of the city's fast-paced environment,
seek refuge on Mont-Royal, a natural sanctuary nestled in the heart of this urban jungle.
Seattle
Why go: Seattle is one of America's most unique
destinations and summer is definitely the time to go. The sun is out,
the skies are clear and the temperatures are comfortable. Granted, hotel
rates are higher and tourists are prevalent, but we feel that the
weather makes for a more than fair trade-off. Tip: Add a few extra days
to your trip, and make a side trip to Portland and/or Vancouver.
Aruba
Why go: If you thought the Caribbean was off-limits due
to tropical storm threats, you'll be happy to hear that Aruba's
location outside the hurricane belt makes this island a great summer
getaway spot. Home to stunning beaches, thriving cities and the rugged
terrain of Arikok National Park,
Aruba offers a variety of ways to fill your days. And don't forget
about the nightlife: this island's buzzing bar and club scene rivals
that of many a large city.
Munich
Why go: While everyone else flocks to the beach, head
to Munich for a more off-the-beaten-path summer vacation. Instead of
fighting for prime shore-line real estate, spend your time in the hub of
Bavarian culture touring medieval palaces, wandering through art
galleries, biking down historic streets and lounging in beer gardens. If
you find yourself growing restless, Munich is also a great jumping-off
point for trips to Zurich, Prague and Vienna.
West Palm Beach
Why go: Close to a longtime harbor for America's
millionaires, West Palm Beach is now a premier Floridian destination in
its own right. Peak season may be winter, but you can still enjoy the
tranquil near-the-water breeze year-round. Partiers will be better
served farther south, but most others will find the comfort, class and charm of downtown more than enough to entertain them away from the shore.
Las Vegas
Why go: Yes, Vegas is hot in the summer. Ok, it's really, really
hot in the summer. But two factors pushed it on to this list (albeit,
barely) in spite of this fact. Number one: Most of the appeal and action
in this city resides indoors, with the casinos, fine dining and insane
night clubs. Number two: those looking for some respite from the heat
have perhaps the most over-the-top collection of behemoth swimming pools
in the world at their disposal. Those that can handle the heat will be
treated to a vacation they won't soon forget.
