#TravelInspo: Where To Go This Summer

Looking for a little inspiration for your summer travel this year? Here are some suggestions for amazing places to go and what to do when you’re there.

Above It All: Albuquerque, NM

As the hot air balloon capital of the world,  Albuquerque is the ideal destination for an adventurous summer travel. The city offers superb conditions for balloon flights year-round, which can be booked through a number of  hot air balloon ride companies in the area.

Other adventures include taking a ride on the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway. This is North America’s longest double reversible aerial tramway, traveling to the top of the 10,378-foot Sandia Peak.  And don’t miss exploring the ABQ BioPark, a unique environmental museum comprised of an aquarium, botanic garden, zoo and fishing lakes at Tingley Beach.

Ultimate Golden State: San Luis Obispo County, CA

SLO CAL brings together the best of the Golden State. With 315 days of sunshine, 80 miles of enchanting coastline and beaches and the third largest wine region in the state, it’s a destination that encourages exploration and discovery. SLO CAL makes for a road-less-traveled escape.

Here, you can disconnect from everyday routines and focus on reconnecting with oneself  through the vast variety of experiences the destination offers. From outdoor adventure to wine/beer tasting and wellness to immersive attractions, SLO CAL reinvents and re-boots the summer getaway.

Rocky Mountain Escape: Estes Park, CO

Known as the base camp to Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), home to Roosevelt National Forest and only 90 minutes from Denver International Airport,  Estes Park is an authentic Colorado mountain village beloved by residents and guests alike. 

Estes offers an abundance of summer outdoor adventure for every ability level. Enjoy hiking, biking, camping or even cliff camping with Kent Mountain Adventure Center (hanging off a cliff in a Portaledge — talk about a unique place to sleep!). Even more, the town also boasts local breweries, a distillery and winery.

Road Tripping With The King: Tupelo, MS

Summer travel talk has us dreaming of driving with the top down, wind in our hair and  rocking out to the perfect playlist. With Elvis Presley part of that list, there is no better cruise than the four-hour drive along the beautiful Natchez Trace Parkway from Nashville to Tupelo. Tupelo, of course, is most notably known as the birthplace of Elvis Presley. 

While in Tupelo, music lovers can see where “The King” himself was born. Then, you can take a walk in Elvis’ footsteps to Tupelo Hardware. This is where Elvis’s mother Gladys took him to purchase his first guitar for $7.75 (he wanted a rifle). The store is still exactly the same and owned by the same family. Today, Tupelo continues to stay true to its musical past. The city plays host to some amazing musical acts in intimate venues. One of those spots is The Blue Canoe. The classic club offers live music seven days a week. And the bar boasts one of the best selections of craft beer in Mississippi.

Festival Season: Toronto

During the summer Toronto comes alive with a variety of events and festivities, including headline musical acts, major arts festivals and big league sports. Catch a Blue Jays game with the dome open at Rogers Centre. Ride a ferry and explore the car-free Toronto Islands by bike or on foot.

Experience the Toronto Jazz Festival and Beaches International Jazz Festival and the can't-be-missed Toronto Caribbean Carnival. In June, don't miss the 38th annual Pride Parade and fireworks along the Harbourfront for Canada Day. Additional events throughout the summer include the North By Northeast Festival (June), Festival of Beer (July) and Roger’s Cup (August).

Summer Adventure & Luxury: Belize

Summer sees the warmest and driest months in Belize, making it the perfect time to visit. In recent years, more and more direct flights have been added from major cities across the U.S. and, unlike cookie-cutter destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean, Belize oozes with a sense of place. Travelers can kayak, paddle board, and snorkel around the Belize Barrier Reef.

With fewer tourists around, there will be fewer crowds at ancient Mayan ruins, like Xunantunich. Visitors should opt to stay at any, or all, of the three  Unique Hotels of Belize properties in order to experience this unspoiled pint-sized country. From prime diving at Victoria House Resort & Spa and wellness luxuries at Naïa Resort, to inland adventures at The Lodge at Chaa Creek, there is something for everyone to experience when traveling to Belize.