Second semester is already upon us which means for some, the “Winter Blues” have kicked in and left us with no signs of summer vacation in sight. The sun is almost nowhere to be seen, and your once tan skin just seems to get paler and paler by the minute. Oh, the horror.
Below is a list of 7 “Hidden Treasures” in the world that are exceptionally vacation-worthy and are sure to beat the winter blues that have us feeling down (and super pale).
1. Naifaru, Maldives
The small island of Naifaru is nestled in the northern region of the Maldives, and boasts as the most popular in the Lhavayani Atoll. Its glass-like waters and welcoming village life are guaranteed to make for a great vacation spot.
2. Iligan, Mindanao, Philippines
Iligan City is known as the “City of Waterfalls” for a reason: the rushing waters cascade down the mountains and into greenery that could compete with those of Hawaii. With its lush natural wildlife and bustling citylife, Iligan City is a Hidden Treasure that you will want to visit.
3. Budva, Montenegro
Seated just on the tip of the Riviera in the Adriatic Sea is Budva, Montenegro. A city most well-known for its nightlife and expansive beaches, Budva also holds some rich history right in the heart of the town, flaunting Venetian style churches and stone walls that line the narrow city streets. Budva is definitely a treasure to see if you’re into fascinating history, scenic beach getaways and killer nightlife.
4. Jan Thiel Beach, Curacao
This Dutch island in the Caribbean holds some of the finest coves and coral reefs in the world and the most colorful cities around, making it a must-have on the list of Hidden Treasures. The city’s buildings are actually painted in pastel colors! The island of Curacao is the place to be if interacting with marine life, snorkeling and exploring the large reefs is your definition of a summer vacation. The Caribbean sun is also a quick fix for the winter skin, providing bronze complexions in no time.
5. Keukenhof, Lisse, Netherlands
This next hidden treasure takes us to the Garden of Europe, also known as Keukenhof in the Dutch city of Lisse. This expansive botanical garden in the Netherlands is one of the world’s largest flower gardens, most notable for its collection of Holland’s famous tulips. Keukenhof holds more than 7 million tulips, and just screams the beauties of Spring to those who visit. The city of Lisse is also home to a beautiful medieval castle and surrounding forests, lakes, and parks. A definite must-see for those who aren’t keen on beachy vacation destinations.
6. Taylor Lake, Alberta, Canada
Keeping in theme with destinations that aren’t scenic beach towns, Taylor Lake in Alberta, Canada is a different type of ‘scenic’. With trails leading to massive lakes and a mountain view that is sure to make Yosemite jealous, Taylor Lake is the perfect spot to get away and experience nature in her finest, purest state. Whether you stay for a weekend or for a week or two, Taylor Lake is sure to stand out amongst other vacations.
7. New Zealand in general
Let’s be honest: New Zealand is one of the most beautiful vacation destinations out there. Everybody knows “The Hobbit” was filmed there, but there is much more to do in the major cities and rolling countryside, rich history to discover and beautiful landscape to explore. It’s a Hidden Treasure that is worth discovering for yourself, because it is up to you to decide what you want to experience. No matter where you go, you are guaranteed to have a great time because you will most likely be spending it with the people closest to you.
So whether you prefer the white sand beaches and turquoise waters of the Maldives or the crisp mountain air of Canada, summer vacation is closer than you think and holds a different definition for everyone. Treasure the last few months of winter, and know that these “Hidden Treasures” will be waiting for you once the semester is over.