It’s about that time in the summer when you’re either itching to go on vacation or you’re realizing that you have some downtime and want to get away. Either way, we’ve rounded up a few last-minute vacation ideas, across the US, the Caribbean, and Europe. A few of these also offer packages that can help you make the most of the rest of the summer. Read on for inspiration, if you’re…
Looking for some beach time…
The Somerset on Grace Bay, Turks & Caicos
Though we love Northeast beaches in the summer, sometimes you’re looking for something different — and this Turks & Caicos resort offers just that. There are 53 gorgeous (and private) accommodations, with options including pool villas, 3-bedroom estates, and townhomes.Plus, there’s no shortage of beach activities, including snorkeling, kiteboarding, and private charter rentals. And on Tuesday evenings, head down to the beach for a bonfire BBQ, along with a rum bar and DJ. (Private beach dining is also available, with a prix fixe menu offered.) If you’re visiting with girlfriends, opt for the Girls Retreat on Grace Bay. It includes a private spa and catamaran trip, as well as a cooking class with a private chef and delicious cocktails, with a beach photoshoot to round out the entire experience.
Traveling with kids…
The Boca Raton, Boca Raton, FL
There’s tons of things for families to do at this 200-acre resort — from hanging out in the Kiddie Splash Zone (there are also cabanas) to catching some 40ft waves on the new FlowRider to spending time in the kids and teen clubs. This summer, they also launched kids’ camps, including a teen summer sports camp and the Banyan Bunch Kids Summer Camp. Beyond that, families can choose between multiple accommodation locations as well as many different dining options. (We bet Burger Bar and the chocolate shop will be big hits.) The Have it All package, which gives you up to $300 in credits to use at the resort, including camp reservations.
Want an alternative to Napa…
The Allison Inn & Spa, Newberg, OR
This 35-acre resort in Oregon’s wine country — under an hour from Portland — offers a variety of amenities, including 77 rooms and 8 suites, including options with balconies and views of the vineyard. Along with the farm-to-table on-site Jory restaurant, you can further up the relaxation at the spa. There are multiple treatment rooms, as well as eucalyptus-infused steam rooms, a halotherapy room, and a space for yoga and meditation, and more. Not to miss: The “Pino-therapy” treatment, “a Pinot-inspired botanical and biological therapy produced by wine and grape seed extracts derived from the resort’s vineyard.”
Need to unwind…
Amangani, Jackson, WY
Amangani means “peaceful home” — which is your first clue that this resort near the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone National Park is a great place to come to relax, unwind, and experience nature. There are a variety of outdoor activities in the summer, including guided wildlife safaris, horseback riding, fly fishing, hiking, and biking. When it’s time to really bliss out, head to the spa, which not only includes the traditional massages, facials, and body treatments, but also IV therapies and red light therapy. Plus, you can tap even further into your wellness routine with daily yoga classes and Crystal Sound Bowl Healing sessions — both of which debuted this summer. As far as where to stay, there are both suites and homes, with the suites all boasting outdoor space.
Have your passport ready…
Cameron House, Loch Lomond, Scotland
About a two-hour drive from Edinburgh, relax and enjoy the incredible 400 acres at this lakeside resort, which also makes a great home base. There are various accommodation options, including suites, apartments, and lodges, some of the largest of which have four bedrooms and can sleep up to 8 people. There are multiple restaurants and bars along with a cinema room that runs two to three screenings a day. Beyond that, golfers will love the two courses — one 18-hole and another 9-hole — and everyone can enjoy the various outdoor activities, like speed boating, falconry, off-roading, and lots more.
