By Karen Espig

Everyone loves a holiday, and many of us take that vacation during the summer months. However, travelling during the high tourist season can be challenging due to costs, temperatures, and crowds, so I have listed my five favourite options that are outside the usual lists.

Taking a trip off the beaten track can be the key to getting a better deal, avoiding the fight for a sunlounger by the pool or long lines to get into popular restaurants. 

Think Winter!

We sometimes forget that while the thermometer soars in much of central Europe, on the opposite side of the globe, it is winter. Let’s look at three fabulous destinations south of the equator. 

Kenya

This African country offers many fantastic experiences, whether you are looking for relaxation on the beach, an animal safari, or the adventure of climbing Mount Kenya. 

Choosing a safari adventure during this milder time of year means you are likelier to see more animals in action. The winter season also corresponds with the incredible wildebeest migration that passes through the Masai Mara National Reserve (typically in August). 

If you want something a little more elegant, try an early morning hot air balloon ride over the Masai Mara plains, finishing with a champagne breakfast. 

North Australia

Next up is Australia’s northern region, where winter temperatures are still mild enough for wild swimming at Litchfield National Park. Here, you can also get up close to the fascinating termite mounds or visit a butterfly sanctuary. Camping is the only accommodation available within the park, but other options exist outside it. 

Heading to the coastal city of Darwin offers the unique adventure of swimming with salt-water crocodiles (while you are safely tucked away in a submersible cage). This once-in-a-lifetime experience only lasts 15 minutes, but that seems enough for me! Your entry ticket includes admission to the larger reptile park for the day, which includes aquariums and other family-friendly activities. Darwin offers the grown-ups a robust port with cruises, nightlife, and restaurants.

Córdoba Region, Argentina

Córdoba is the second-largest city in Argentina, located inland. In this region, you will find incredible hiking and horse-riding adventures amidst the epic landscapes of the Central Sierra Mountains.

For a quirky change of architectural and cultural scenery, head to Villa General Belgrano, a city founded by immigrants in the 1930s. The population here is predominantly German, Italian, Swiss, and Spanish, with a gastronomy that follows. The wood-framed houses are built in the old German style, making it feel a bit like a movie set. Oktoberfest is a big deal here and might inspire a return visit.

European Options

Perhaps visiting some places in Europe is on your bucket list. If so, here are two fantastic options to avoid tourist traps and hectic destinations. 

Montenegro

If you long for a beach vacation that is less crowded than those of Southern France, Greece, and Spain, Montenegro’s 173 beaches on 73 km of the Adriatic Sea are waiting for you. Jaz Beach is one of the longest (2.5km) and is located near the city of Budva. It offers sandy shores with both developed and more private stretches of beach. Jaz is about a 30-minute walk from Budva centre, but taxis are readily available. 

For a quieter beach day, head to Valdanos Beach, near the city of Ulcinj. This area was once a recreation spot for Yugoslav soldiers. It is a mix of pebbles, rocks, and concrete landings and sits quietly against a backdrop of 18,000 olive trees and Mount Mavrian. There are no water sport services here, but diving is good, and for those so inclined, there is a nudist beach at the northern end. 

Sicily, Italy

For foodies, Italy cannot be beaten, but why not leave the mainland and try one of the many beautiful regions of Sicily? Sicily has its own distinct cuisine and cultural flavour, which varies within its regions. If you are moving from city to city, be sure to try the many incarnations of arancina/o. 

You could start your visit in the coastal city of Catania, where you may enjoy a day at the beach one day and a trip to Mount Etna the next. To get closer than 2500 metres to this active Volcano, you will need to sign up for a guided tour. There are hiking, cycling, vehicle, and bus options available, but be sure to book ahead! 

The entire coastline of Sicily is a wonder, with countless beaches and towns. If you love UNESCO heritage sites, visit The Valley of The Temples in Agrigento. It is an extensive complex of well-preserved Greek structures. During hot summer days, I recommend a visit when it opens in the morning (10 am) or close to closing time ( this varies, so check the schedule) to avoid the glare of the midday sun. 

Truly, there are many underrated and under-visited locations from which to choose. Picking an off-the-beaten-track locale often affords you fewer crowds, better value, and unique stories and experiences. Bon voyage!