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Best summer vacation spots outside of Europe?

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Georgi_Pro
Joined:
11.11.2019
Posts: 1132
Topic Starter
15.01.2025 22:20
My partner and I are looking to head abroad this July, but we want to avoid the typical European summer crowds and the intense heatwaves we've seen lately. We are open to flying pretty much anywhere, but we'd love a mix of outdoor activities and good food. Does anyone have recommendations for places that aren't completely swamped with tourists during the peak summer months? We are planning to stay for about ten days and our budget is relatively flexible.
16 replies in this topic
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Oliviya_T
Joined:
08.02.2020
Posts: 1761
17.01.2025 16:21
Have you considered Vancouver Island in Canada? July is absolutely stunning there, the weather is mild, and the food scene in Victoria and Tofino is top-tier.
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Oli_L
Joined:
28.01.2023
Posts: 1013
21.01.2025 00:17
In reply to a previous post
I second Vancouver Island! Just make sure to book your ferries and accommodation way in advance because it still gets busy with locals.
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Kaya_J
Joined:
15.10.2020
Posts: 202
14.02.2025 03:20
Try Hokkaido, Japan. While the rest of Japan is a sauna in July, Hokkaido stays much cooler and the lavender fields are in full bloom. Plus, the seafood is unbeatable.
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Yavor_K
Joined:
26.08.2024
Posts: 298
22.02.2025 14:17
In reply to a previous post
Hokkaido is a great shout. It's definitely less crowded than Tokyo or Kyoto during that time.
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Alan_K
Joined:
17.12.2020
Posts: 95
08.03.2025 04:14
What about the Azores? Technically part of Portugal, but it feels like a different world. Very lush, great hiking, and definitely not your typical tourist trap.
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Stasi_B
Joined:
15.02.2023
Posts: 2213
11.03.2025 12:55
In reply to a previous post
The Azores are technically in Europe though, so that might not fit what the OP is looking for.
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Alan_K
Joined:
14.12.2024
Posts: 1731
01.04.2025 05:53
In reply to a previous post
Fair point! If you want to avoid Europe entirely, maybe look at the coastal mountains in Peru? You get the food in Lima and then head to the Sacred Valley for trekking.
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Bg_Pechba
Joined:
19.02.2023
Posts: 1467
04.06.2025 12:26
Patagonia is a classic, but remember it's winter there in July. If you don't mind the cold and want to ski or do some winter hiking, it's magical.
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SivaMishka
Joined:
15.03.2022
Posts: 2240
19.06.2025 09:13
In reply to a previous post
Actually, I'd skip Patagonia in July unless you love sub-zero temperatures. It's better to head somewhere like Costa Rica or Panama for a tropical vibe.
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agata_k
Joined:
26.09.2022
Posts: 1332
29.06.2025 23:36
Look into the Pacific Northwest in the US. Washington state has incredible national parks and the food in Seattle is fantastic. July is the best month for hiking there.
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Iva_R
Joined:
23.11.2022
Posts: 1146
15.07.2025 07:33
In reply to a previous post
I live in Seattle and can confirm, July is the best time to visit before the wildfire smoke hits in August. Highly recommended.
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robert_d
Joined:
09.04.2021
Posts: 2483
22.08.2025 01:48
How about South Africa? July is winter, but the weather is generally dry and pleasant, perfect for safari. The food in Cape Town is world-class and very affordable right now.
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Roman_88
Joined:
26.08.2024
Posts: 1777
06.11.2025 08:15
In reply to a previous post
South Africa is a great suggestion! The exchange rate definitely makes a flexible budget go a long way.
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Igor_Tech
Joined:
15.05.2024
Posts: 1703
22.11.2025 07:52
If you want something unique, try the Azores. Wait, someone already said that. How about Bhutan? It's expensive but totally worth it for the culture and trekking.
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Iggy_R
Joined:
27.10.2020
Posts: 1235
03.01.2026 10:55
In reply to a previous post
Bhutan is amazing, but you have to factor in the daily sustainable development fee, which might eat into that flexible budget quite a bit.
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Fabi_W
Joined:
04.12.2025
Posts: 291
21.01.2026 09:46
Whatever you choose, just check the rainy seasons. You don't want to fly halfway across the world just to sit in a hotel room for ten days!

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