But you can check out these alternatives.
Americans are heading to Europe in droves this year. According to a survey by travel insurance company Allianz Travel, there’s a 34% jump in American travelers flying across the pond–and they’re all heading to the usual suspects. Even when it comes to domestic destinations, travelers are sticking with tried-and-tested destinations, which means these spots will not only be more expensive, but more crowded, too. Fun! But don’t despair–if you’re worried about the crowds or your wallet, we’ve got a few suggestions for low-key holiday summer spots that are just as delightful as the go-to faves.
The Usual Spots
The results of Allianz Partner’s Top 10 Summer Travel Destinations survey for 2024 are not surprising. American travelers are picking warm beach destinations, as per usual. According to the company, international travel is up by 15% this summer compared to 2023, while a majority of Americans (68%) have booked domestic itineraries.
For international trips, Mexico is a clear favorite with Cancun, San Jose del Cabo, and Puerto Vallarta in the top 10 list. In Europe, travelers are flocking to London and Paris. Domestic favorites have a mix of cities and beaches with Orlando taking the top spot and two destinations in Hawaii–Honolulu and Maui–featuring on itineraries. Seattle, New York, Boston, and Los Angeles are also on traveler’s minds this year.
There are no surprising destinations—all of these are great escapes, but they are also typically crowded and expensive in the summer with waves of tourists fighting for the best spots on beaches, amusement parks, cruises, and museums.
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Domestic Destinations
1. Orlando, Florida
2. Seattle, Washington
3. Boston, Massachusetts
4. New York, New York
5. Honolulu, Hawaii
6. Las Vegas, Nevada
7. Los Angeles, California
8. Anchorage, Alaska
9. Maui, Hawaii
10. Denver, Colorado
International Destinations
1. Cancun, Mexico
2. San Jose del Cabo, Mexico
3. Oranjestad, Aruba
4. London, England
5. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
6. Montego Bay, Jamaica
7. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
8. Providenciales, Turks & Caicos
9. Paris, France
10. Nassau, Bahamas
Last-Minute Alternatives
Europe is going to be particularly crowded this year. The Olympics are in Paris, the European Championship is scheduled in Germany, and Taylor Swift is heading to multiple European cities this summer. These, along with other annual events such as the Tour de France and Roland Garros, will make it an expensive trip across the ocean even if you have made your bookings in advance. Case in point: metro and hotel prices are skyrocketing in the French capital, and you’ll meet similar fate as demand rises in other cities as Olympics-goers venture out on post-Games tours. Plus, tourist taxes have become more common in Europe, adding to the overall trip expenses.
You might be able to shave off some costs even if you were thinking of making last-minute travel plans by picking other summer destinations. They may still be crowded, but not as much as the common culprits. Sadly, flights will stay pricey, especially due to the decrease in airline capacity caused by undelivered planes.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Rather than Florida or Hawaii, you can also look at the family-friendly Myrtle Beach this summer. It has beaches, golf courses, amusement parks, and lots of summer festivals to fill your itineraries. For more grown up time, you can watch live shows and theater performances, and try different beers and wines here. If you’re close enough, you may be able to drive down (no flights necessary).
Related: The Perfect Weekend Getaway: Myrtle Beach From Atlanta
Prince Edward Island, Canada
Fancy a fishing trip? Or a spot of golf? Or sun basking on the beach? Prince Edward Island is perfect for a slow-paced destination and summer brings lots of opportunities to go outdoors and enjoy the weather. From resorts to bed and breakfasts, you’ll find a variety of accommodation options to fit your budget, too.
Quebec City, Canada
The French-speaking Quebec City has history within its walls. Pick this if you want to walk on cobblestone streets and visit ornate cathedrals without leaving the continent. Since 1928, the citadel has hosted the Changing of the Guard ceremony in the summer and this year, it is being replaced by a musical performance by the Royal 22nd Regiment Band from Wednesday to Sunday at 10 a.m.
It’s certainly a different city experience than New York or Boston, but you will get a feel of cosmopolitan vibes in a historic backdrop.
Corsica, France
If you’re keen on skipping the French capital and its seaside destinations, then fly to the island of Corsica, where Napoleon was born. Limestone cliffs, crystal clear beaches, and rugged mountains give you perfect opportunities to awaken your wild side with hikes, canoeing, diving, and parachuting. It may be a French island, but its proximity to Italy (and history with the country) reflects in its culture—go close enough to the southern tip and you may even catch Italian radio.
Related: One of the Mediterranean’s Most Beautiful Islands Has an Ancient “Bandit Land”
Gozo, Malta
Gozo, a 45-minute ferry ride from the capital of Valletta, is a Mediterranean gem. You can relax on this unhurried, slightly less crowded island known for its sandy beaches, beautiful cliffs, and the historic temple of Ggantija. There are plenty of snorkelling and diving spots, and you can explore the fortified city of Cittadella, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.