What’s hot for summer 2018

Bangkok's amazing night markets make for a great summer evening. Image credit: Roberto Trombetta/Creative Commons

Summer is here and it’s time to decide where your next adventure will take you. Although it’s a popular time of year to go away, there are plenty of destinations to go around and we have selected seven of the best.

Whether you’re looking for non-stop adventure in New York, a luxurious escape to Dubai or an immersive tour of Thailand, there will be something here to get you in the holiday mood.

New York

New York is a year-round destination, but summer is a great time to explore the city.

Experience summer sizzle in the Big Apple! It is a great time of year to explore the city on foot or by open-top bus. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous then head to 843-acre green space Central Park, where you can pedal your way around the 6.1-mile cycling track or rent a boat and row on one of its lakes.

Summer presents the perfect opportunity to catch a baseball game, so head to Yankee Stadium to watch the Bronx Bombers play ball or make the trip to Citi Field to see the Mets strut their stuff. Thrill-seekers will love a trip to Coney Island with its old-school theme park, or you can try out Smorgasburg, Brooklyn’s weekly-open air food market with over 100 local food vendors.

Thailand

Overlooking Bangkok at night. Image credit: Pablo Fernández/Creative Commons

Thailand has it all, from picturesque sandy beaches surrounding remote and tranquil islands to the exhilarating pace of big city life. Head to Bangkok and ignite the senses as you look, smell and taste your way through the city’s many street food markets, or enjoy a fine dining experience on a Chao Phraya evening river cruise.

For a more relaxing stay, head to the island of Koh Samui, known for its palm-fringed beaches, dense, mountain rainforest and luxury resorts and spas. There’s also the resort of Hua Hin on the Thai mainland, which is great for families. In addition to a host of child-friendly hotels, there’s Black Mountain Water Park with nine slides and a wave pool, and you can take the little ones along to the relaxed Cicada night market, with live performances and arts and crafts on offer.

Dubai

Dubai may be hot in June, July and August, but it's a cool summer hangout. Image credit: Mathias Apitz/Creative Commons

Although it’s their summer too, June to August is actually Dubai’s low season. There are usually various discounts available for travel to the emirate at this time of year, meaning you can enjoy incredible savings. Take a half-empty suitcase and pack your bags full of designer goods from the Dubai Mall – the world’s largest – or head up to the observation deck at the top of the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa.

There’s also plenty to keep the kids entertained whether it’s balloon artists, puppet shows and pop-up theatres, or one of Dubai’s many thrilling theme parks such as IMG Worlds of Adventure and LEGOLAND Dubai. Make sure not to forget your sun cream, as temperatures frequently soar into the 40s and beyond during the summer months.

Paphos

Beautiful beaches and picturesque shipwrecks are a feature of Paphos' stunning coastline. Image credit: Tobias Van Der Elst/Creative Commons

Enjoy the delights of Cyprus with a trip to Paphos this summer! If you’re looking to top up your tan or splash around in the sea, visit the sandy Coral Bay or one of several secluded coves along Cyprus’ quiet western coast.

Those who want to get a little more active can visit landmarks including 4th century BC necropolis the Tomb of Kings, Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, including a Roman villa and mosaics, and Paphos Castle, which has also been used as a prison and a warehouse in previous years. Family fun can be found at Ithaki Amusement Park and MiniGolf with its mini dodgems, play areas, bucking bronco and 18-hole crazy course.

Crete

Stunning rural scenery is a common sight on the Greek island of Crete. Image credit: Andy Montgomery/Creative Commons

Crete is Greece’s largest island and a popular tourist destination, filled with everything from historic sites to beautiful scenery. It’s also renowned for an amazing culinary scene with a great selection of local restaurants and flavoursome food to try. Sample dakos, the traditional Cretan take on bruschetta, and one of many kinds of cheese from the island which are used to make pies and complement salads.

If you’re looking for a coastal retreat with a Caribbean vibe head to Vai beach, with its curving, golden sands against the backdrop of Europe’s natural palm grove. Or check out Elafonisi beach which serves up pink sand and crystal-clear waters. Walk down cobbled streets, dine in charming tavernas and meet friendly locals in Crete.

Cancun

Head to Cancun for golden sands and stunning blue waters. Image credit: dronepicr/Creative Commons

Situated on the Yucatan Peninsula in an area of rich cultural heritage is Cancun. Swim in the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea before stretching out on endless, sun-drenched white sand beaches. You can also visit a wealth of Mayan monuments and temples including one of the new Seven Wonders of The World Chichen Itza.

It’s also a great destination to take the kids, with nearby Xcaret eco-archaeological park combining fun attractions like snorkelling and cave exploration with the history and fauna of the Mayan jungle. They will also love the fabulous wildlife encounters available to them such as swimming with marine turtles in their natural habitat off Akumal Bay.