Lifestyle

15 Summer Destinations That Will Make You Forget All About Home

by John Haltiwanger

Summer is intrinsically linked with adventure and freedom.

It's the season synonymous with laughter, sunshine, warmth, longer days, road trips, beach excursions, sweaty hikes, campouts under the stars and all the fun you can possibly muster.

It's the most reinvigorating part of the year. Spring helps revitalize us after winter, but summer is when we really feel alive.

To borrow from F. Scott Fitzgerald:

And so with the sunshine and the great bursts of leaves growing on the trees, just as things grow in fast movies, I had that familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with the summer.

The regenerating spirit of summer instills within all of us a desire to get up and move. We become inherently nomadic when the sun shines brightest.

Summer and travel were made for one another; they both whisper to us the future is bright and full of possibility.

Simply put, summer is the best time of year to get out and explore. This isn't exactly a secret, but the big question is where to go.

We live in a big, beautiful, dynamic world. There are a myriad of destinations to choose from.

Travel during summer is all about finding those places that make you forget about home, and the worries and woes that come along with it.

There are certain locations in the world that are so inexplicably magical and captivating that contentment washes over you instantaneously.

The only way to truly grasp this sentiment is to experience it.

As the Dalai Lama once stated:

Once a year, go someplace you’ve never been before.

There's no better time to go than summer.

Here are 12 summer destinations that will make you forget all about home:

1. Big Sur, California, USA

Big Sur epitomizes peacefulness. Picture wave after wave crashing against beautiful rock formations in the water while you're sitting back on the beach and soaking it all in.

It's a picturesque spot perfect for camping or just a day of escape. Going to Big Sur is all about taking your time and enjoying the natural splendor of California.

2. Isle of Skye, Scotland, UK

Scotland is one of the most epically beautiful countries in the world, and the Isle of Skye plays a huge role in that. Located in the Scottish highlands, it's an exceptionally mystical place.

If you like nature, history, whisky, incredible views, friendly people and delicious fish and chips, you should definitely head here.

3. Lake Atitlán, Guatemala

If you're looking for a place to relax and meditate, head to Lake Atitlán in Guatemala. This is the perfect place sit back and forget about it all while reenergizing and refocusing.

In addition to the fantastic scenery, it's an excellent place for backpacking.

4. Waldseilgarten, Germany

Every little kid dreams of having a tree house. Head here and you can do one better by camping out in a tent hanging from a tree. What are you waiting for?

5. Catania, Italy

Located at the foot of Mount Etna, the biggest volcano in Europe, Catania is one of the most authentic places you could ever visit. It's also exceptionally beautiful.

The historic architecture, rich culture, delicious food and excellent swimming make it one of the best destinations in the world.

6. Cape Range National Park, Australia

For some of the best beach camping in the world, head to Cape Range National Park in Australia.

The water is crystal clear and perfect for snorkeling, and the surrounding area is full of natural beauty and wildlife.

7. Zanzibar, Tanzania

If you truly want to get away from it all and relax, head to Zanzibar, one of the most picturesque locations on the planet.

Once a major center of trade, it's now a historical, breathing paradise bursting with endless activities.

8. Biscayne National Park, Florida, USA

If you like snorkeling, swimming, camping and pirates, this is the place for you. There are pirate shipwrecks to explore and a diverse array of marine life to marvel at.

If you were made to be in or around water, you were made to visit Biscayne National Park.

9. Cappadocia, Turkey

Located in central Turkey, there is no place on Earth like Cappadocia. The unique landscape is rich with history.

It's also one of the best spots in the world to go hot air ballooning. If you're into adventure, head here.

10. Zion National Park, Utah, USA

If you want to see some of the most exceptional scenery in the United States, head to Zion National Park.

From hiking and horseback riding to rock climbing and camping, this is a true natural playground.

11. Maya Bay, Ko Phi Phi, Thailand

This is, hands down, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It was literally made for relaxation and laying on the beach.

If you are looking for perhaps the most relaxing and most picturesque destination on the planet, you know where to book your next flight to.

12. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, USA

This is one of the most heavenly spots on Earth. You can float down the Snake River or sit back and soak it all in.

Between the stunning views and the great local culture in Jackson Hole, you'll never want to leave.

13. Budva, Montenegro

Budva, Montenegro is probably one of the most underrated spots in Europe. If you love to party, head here; the nightlife is impeccable.

In the morning, you can regain your strength sprawled out on any of its beautiful beaches. This place is the ideal combination of history, culture and splendor.

 14. Isle Royale National Park, Michigan, USA

This national park, which is surrounded by Lake Superior, is one of America's hidden natural gems.

Go camping, kayaking, scuba diving, canoeing, hiking or simply bask in the serenity and solitude of this incredible destination.

15. Banff National Park, Canada

Not all summer destinations need to involve sandy beaches. Banff National Park is Canada's oldest national park and one of the most epic locations you'll ever encounter.

If you love incredible scenery and generally any and all outdoor activities, you'll be in heaven here.

No matter what you do this summer, Miller Lite wants you to share it with the rest of the world. We wanna see you and your friends at the beach, the bar and everywhere in between. Share your summer. #ItsMillerTime