Attention burnt-out students and jet setters – it’s officially time to start planning your summer vacations! Whether you’re graduating in May, or just need some R&R after a stressful school year, here are some ideas for an exciting and unique summer getaway. I know it may seem early, but planning your trip months in advance will ensure you pay the cheapest price for flights and hotels, as well as make sure the trip makes it out of the group chat!
Nashville, Tennesse
In all honesty, this is my number one choice for my graduation trip this summer! Without a passport, I’m limited on the locations of my vacation but there are some truly amazing places to visit right here in the United States. As a lover of country music (and cowboys), Nashville has hundreds of attractions to check out. Visit the Grand Ole Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame, or bar hop and shop Downtown! Plus, rumor has it, Morgan Wallen is set to open a six-story restaurant, bar, and museum this summer. Nashville is the perfect location if you’re on a lower budget or not interested in traveling far!
New Orleans, Louisiana
This is another great location for music lovers and those who don’t want to travel outside the country. New Orleans is the home of jazz and soul music, as well as the birthplace of cocktails, making it another one of my top choices this summer. Beautiful and humid, this city is home to the infamous Bourbon Street. Whether you’re looking for historical attractions, like the National World War II Museum or Museum of Art, or whether you’re more interested in the numerous jazz festivals or the Tales of the Cocktail Festival, New Orleans has something for everyone.
Hawaii
This is an option with a bunch of options in itself! With seven islands to choose from, and all exceptionally beautiful, Hawaii is a great choice for your summer vacay. Oahu is typically known for being the most busy island, with plenty of shopping opportunities and a nightlife scene. Home to the state’s capital, Honolulu, Oahu is the perfect destination if you’re interested in having the best of both worlds: relaxation and excitement. According to the Hawaiian Airlines website, if you’re looking for “Heaven on Earth,” Maui is the spot for you! With plenty of gorgeous beach spas, water activities, and a high UV, Maui is a prime location to unwind after a long school year.
Miami, Florida
My last suggestion within the United States is for my party girls. It’s Miami, baby! Now, this is a spot for the girls who want nothing but to blow off some steam this summer. Full of beach clubs, yachts, delicious restaurants, and potential celebrity sightings, I highly recommend Miami for a celebratory trip with the girls! This is definitely a place where you’re going to want to pack your cutest outfits and plenty of heel options to match your bikinis, as well as a high SPF sunscreen. If partying isn’t entirely your scene, or you’re taking a break from the partying for a day, there are tons of water activities to try out! Jet skiing, swimming with dolphins, or planning an ATV tour are some other exciting options you can check out!
Bora Bora
Grab your passport… We’ve officially left the country! If you’re like me, Bora Bora’s Matira Beach has been pinned on your Pinterest board for years. The bungalows overlooking the crisp, blue water are absolutely stunning. A bit of a disclaimer, Bora Bora is a more expensive destination, but nevertheless a dream vacation spot. If your parents have promised you an all-expenses paid trip, Bora Bora is calling your name. Despite it being an expensive location, there are some more affordable options, especially if you’re splitting the price with a group. There are numerous experiences to try here, but I’d recommend planning a sunset sailboat tour or if you’re a daredevil, try swimming with some sharks – supervised, of course!
Croatia
Next on our list is Croatia. Croatia is a perfect location if you’re looking to backpack around or travel to more than one country this summer. The coastline of the Adriatic Sea, Croatia is close to Greece, Italy, Switzerland, and Austria ensuring smooth travels if you have enough space in your passport. Full of beautiful views, incredible food, and tons of history, Croatia is for those who plan on traveling for a longer period of time. I’d consider this destination the most picturesque on our list, with its stunning architecture and gorgeous weather. One activity you have to check out is the Dubrovnik Cable Car, which takes travelers from the coastline to the top of Mount Srd. If you or any members of your crew need some convincing, pack some Dramamine and prepare for the breathtaking views at the top of the mountain – as well as some food and drinks at the Panorama Restaurant that resides there!
Australia
My last suggestion for your getaway this summer is Australia. Whether you’re in Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane, Australia is a perfect spot for you if you’re looking for awesome views, city experiences, wildlife, and a unique location that isn’t too common for graduation trips. If you happen to be near Queensland, you can’t miss the snorkeling tours offered through the Great Barrier Reef. Boats, barbeques, world-famous beaches (and the accents) are just a few of the excitements in this country. If you’re interested in seeing the only location of kangaroos or want to experience some of the world’s most dangerous and unique animals, Australia is your prime summer location.
