Where to spend summer.
April is when summer plans take shape. If you haven’t already, now’s the time to lock them in and turn ideas into something real. Stay stateside and rediscover classic American vacations or look to Europe for all the charm—and discover the spots away from the crowds. Or plan now for further ahead with something more immersive, like exploring the many sides of Japan. The best trips don’t just happen—they’re thoughtfully brought to life.
Photo: Four Season Resort Lanai, Hawaii
The Carolinas
Summer’s best kept secret. When it comes to summer travel, few places strike the balance quite like the Carolinas.They hit a rare sweet spot—easy to reach, rich in character, and offering a range of experiences that can be tailored to exactly what you’re in the mood for, whether that’s beach time, exceptional food, or a quieter reset in the mountains. The Carolinas aren’t about doing everything—they’re about doing the right things, at the right pace
Staying Stateside This Summer
You don’t need a passport to plan an unforgettable summer. Domestic travel is having a moment—and Memorial Day is the perfect excuse to book that trip you’ve been putting off. Explore the full breadth of the USA—glittering cities, timeless small towns, untamed wilderness, and even tropical shores.
From mountain getaways and charming coastal towns to awe-inspiring national parks, some of the best itineraries right now are right here at home. Beach days, rugged landscapes, cultural centers, urban escapes, boutique stays, all-inclusive resorts, and remote cabins—plus some of the best theme park experiences anywhere.
Dude Ranches
Dude ranches trade packed itineraries for open skies and morning calls for sunrise rides. Across Wyoming, Montana, and Colorado—and beyond to Texas Hill Country and New Mexico—you’ll find stays that range from rugged and rustic to quietly luxurious.
Days unfold on horseback, over shared meals, and in rhythm with the land—not a screen. Think cattle drives and bunkhouse charm, or spa treatments and farm-to-table dinners with mountain views. It’s a slower pace, a wide-open setting, and a kind of escape that feels refreshingly simple—and exactly enough.
Where To Summer In Europe
Paris will always have our hearts—but it’s not the only spot on the continent that’s worth a summertime visit. In fact, some of the best places to go for a European summer vacation will take you far from the obvious locations, especially if you’re looking to ditch the crowds.
Every year, Fora Advisors field thousands of requests from clients looking for that perfect European getaway: somewhere with great food, beautiful scenery (beaches included), and ideally a little culture. And increasingly, the most exciting answers aren’t Paris. Curious to know where to go?
The Allure of Portugal
Portugal blends historic charm with vibrant city life, golden beaches, and a slower, more soulful pace. In Lisbon, colorful streets and buzzing neighborhoods meet a dynamic food scene, while Porto offers riverside views, port wine cellars, and an effortlessly relaxed feel.
Venture into the Douro Valley for vineyard-covered hills and scenic river cruises, or head south to the Algarve for sun-soaked beaches and dramatic coastlines. For something quieter, Comporta brings a laid-back, bohemian escape.
Venice Your Gateway To Italy
Venice is unlike anywhere else—both a world-class destination and a seamless starting point for exploring Italy and beyond. A city of canals, historic palaces, and quiet squares, it feels at once timeless and deeply romantic.
Spend your days gliding along the Grand Canal, wandering narrow alleyways, and lingering over fresh seafood by the water. From here, continue on to Florence, Rome, the Adriatic coast by cruise, or even other European capitals by train.
Japan, Unforgettable by Design
Japan is one of the most rewarding places to explore—effortless to navigate, deeply welcoming, and unlike anywhere else. A seamless blend of ancient tradition and modern life, it offers something for every kind of traveler.
From the neon-lit energy of Tokyo to the timeless beauty of Kyoto and the restorative hot springs of Hakone, each destination reveals a different side of the country. Beyond the classics, Naoshima and Kanazawa reveal a quieter, more unexpected side of Japan, while skiing Hokkaido is renowned for its legendary “Japow” powder.
Where Disney Comes To Life
For many families, a Disney trip feels like a true rite of passage. Disney destinations bring storytelling and hospitality together in ways that feel truly magical. From the charm of Disneyland, where classic attractions meet newer worlds like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, to the expansive magic of Walt Disney World with its parks, resorts, and endless dining and entertainment.
Beyond the parks, Disney Cruise Line brings the experience to sea with Broadway-caliber shows, themed dining, and exclusive island escapes. Disney offers a seamless blend of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable moments.
What’s On My Travel Vision Board
Having visited over 30 countries (and counting) and lived across three continents, travel has long been a defining part of my life. Like any vision board, mine is always evolving as new inspirations and trips come to life.
Share Your Travel Dreams
What’s on your travel vision board? A travel vision board isn’t about having everything figured out. It’s simply a place for your ideas to take shape. Share a few of the places you’d like to visit using the button. And as a small thank you, you’ll be entered into a draw to win a Travel Desk mat.