January is the time of year that many travellers make their summer holiday plans. So if you're one of those travellers who plan on booking your summer holiday in the next few weeks, here are five amazing summer holiday destinations you may want to keep in mind.
An affordable summer getaway in Phapos, Cyprus
Coral Bay © ronsaunders47
If you're looking for a holiday that won't break the bank, it doesn't get much better than Phapos in Cyprus. Located on the western side of Cyprus, Paphos is a small harbour town nestled in Troodos Mountains. The town has plenty of open air restaurants that serve the catch of the day, and there are dozens of water sports to be enjoyed when you're not soaking up the sun. For a great day out, stroll around the ruins at Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, take the kids to Super Aphrodite Waterpark, or visit the peaceful Chrysorrogiatissa Monastery. The weather may be hot but so are the prices for self-catering holiday apartments in Phapos.
A luxury summer getaway in Antigua
Beach in Antigua © andy_tyler
If you don't have a tight budget and are looking for a little indulgence on your summer holiday, why not book a luxury villa in Antigua? The Caribbean island of Antigua is home to some of the world's most spectacular beaches. With its soft white sandy palm-fringed beaches and azure water it ticks all the boxes for a fabulous summer holiday, it's no wonder celebrities like Oprah, Giorgio Armani and Eric Clapton have homes on the island. The peace and tranquillity of the surroundings is nicely balanced by the energetic island culture. You can spend your days lazing on the beach, sailing, scuba diving or fishing, or you can explore attractions like Nelson's Dockyard and the streets of St. John.
An adventurous summer getaway in Kenya
Tsavo National Park © stefanedberg
Kenya is an ideal choice for an adventure holiday. If you choose to stay in the Great Rift Valley region you can take advantage of the safaris and other opportunities to enjoy nature. The trekking safaris are the perfect way to get close to nature and see African wildlife up close. You can also go canoeing, or bird watching and end the day with a game drive. Kenya's coastal region is surprisingly beautiful and within easy reach of places like Tsavo National Park, so you can be viewing African wildlife in the morning and relaxing on the beach in the afternoon. The warm tropical waters are ideal for swimming and you can also enjoy sports like kite surfing, wind surfing and scuba diving.
A family summer getaway in Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia
Sailing on Smith Mountain Lake © desrunyan
If you're looking for a holiday destination for the whole family, Smith Mountain Lake in the Appalachian Blue Ridge Mountains region of Virginia is an excellent choice. There are plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy, from canoeing, fishing and swimming in the lake, to hiking the trails of Smith Mountain Lake State Park, horse riding and mountain biking. You can even play a round of golf at 18 hole championship golf course Mariners Landing, or spend the afternoon exploring the D-Day Memorial in Bedford.
A local summer getaway in Devon
Woolacombe beach © David Jones
Although there are many amazing places abroad, there are also fantastic summer holiday destinations right on your doorstep. One of the most popular spots for a local family summer break is Devon. During the summer months the West Country region is bathed in sunshine and is the perfect place for a beach holiday. You can take a boat trip to Lundy Island, swim or surf at Woolacombe beach, hike through the beautiful Exmoor countryside, stroll through RHS Garden Rosemoor, or take a scenic ride on the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway.
For more summer holiday destination ideas, check out our travel guides here.