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Yet again, as another cool and lacklustre summer descends upon us, those of us determined not to let the rain dampen our spirits turn our thoughts towards tempting summer getaways. The world may be getting smaller but the holiday hotspots just keep on growing. With traditional destinations still ranking high, the more exotic and alternative locations continue to draw the more adventurous, independent traveller.
At a time when currency fluctuations are working against us, a large number of holidaymakers are opting to travel outside Europe to destinations where their money will stretch a little further. Never before have the glitzy stores of New York been so attractive for a guilt-free shopping trip, with holidaymakers flocking to the Big Apple tempted by the strength of the pound against the dollar and the hedonistic lifestyle depicted by Sex and the City. Closer to home, budget airlines have brought us ever more affordable city breaks to romantic destinations such as Venice. This vast labyrinth of dazzling canal-lined streets is the perfect place to get lost with a loved one, and budget accommodation is far more readily available than you would imagine for such a unique destination.
If you`re looking for wall-to-wall sunshine, forget the walls but welcome the sunshine on the island paradise that is The Maldives. Total relaxation upon palm-fringed white powder sands is the order of the day here, until the colourful offshore reefs tempt you into your diving suit for an exotic underwater experience to remember. For a holiday with more historical depth, China has a wealth of appeal and is one of the most richly textured cultures in the world, with unique must-see attractions such as The Great Wall, the Forbidden City and The Yangtze River as well as its fantastic cuisine. India is equally popular with foodies wanting to sample the array of spicy dishes on offer, and destinations such as Kerala offer nature lovers traditional boat tours through the stunning backwaters and vast nature reserves of South India. Those who rank wildlife and nature high on the holiday agenda would also be well advised to consider the stunning island of Borneo, with the chance to get up close and personal with orphaned Orang Utans and explore the amazing rainforests before relaxing upon some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Costa Rica is another mecca for animal lovers, with the chance to spot nesting turtles, monkeys, rare birds and butterflies amid a landscape of jungles and volcanoes. For the intrepid traveller wanting to explore a little off the beaten track, Zambia is the latest up and coming safari hotspot to rival Kenya, and a fantastic centre for taking life to the extreme with adventure sports like white water rafting and bungi jumping.
According to surveys however, most of us see our summer holiday as an opportunity to relax and recharge our batteries, and we prefer not to have to travel far to do so. The Greek islands remain a firm favourite for those looking to relax on unspoilt beaches by day and party all night at some of Europe`s most popular nightlife hotspots. The islands of the Cyclades feature high on the agenda with Mykonos ranking highest for those all-night party venues. With budget flights now available to nearby mainland cities of Zagreb and Split, Croatia is fast becoming a short-haul favourite with its diverse, stunning landscapes which are perfect for walkers, and its idyllic offshore islands, popular with sailors and sun-seekers alike. Wherever you choose to spend your summer holiday this year, be sure to pack the essential travel items, take out good travel insurance and slip on your reef fanning flip flops for those essential lazy strolls along the beach as you watch the sun go down.
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