Top 10 Exclusive Summer Getaways

Summer vacation is synonymous with golden tans, longer days, the smell of sunscreen, lighter fluid, and bug spray. It is also the perfect opportunity to travel the world.

While some may enjoy sticking to traditional destinations, summer is long enough to gain some new stamps in your passport. Here is a look at 10 exclusive getaways around the world that are perfect for summer vacations.

1. Ladakh, India

Surrounded by the Himalayas, this relatively untouched part of the North of India has a different climate than the rest of the country. Ladakh first opened to tourists in the mid-70s. It is becoming a sought-after destination for travelers because of its quaint Buddhist villages, Tibetan cultural influence, and sweeping mountain landscapes. The best time to travel to the area in June, July, and August.

2. French Polynesia

This stunning island retreat is defined by its sky-piercing, moss-green peaks and vivid turquoise lagoons. French Polynesia is the perfect place to get a golden tan, relax and experience laid-back island culture. The best time to visit is from mid-June to September and the month of July is filled with festivals in neighboring islands.

3. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole is the perfect summer playground. It boasts everything from wildlife like moose and bison as well as hot springs, guided hikes around the Tetons, whitewater-rafting down the Snake River and sleeping in a teepee. There is also horse riding and the opportunity to picnic in a picturesque meadow or go mountaineering with a private guide. The best time to visit is in July.

4. Kenya

One of the greatest sights in the world is East Africa's annual migration. It has been dubbed one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on the planet and reaches its peak in August and September. During the migration, nearly 2 million wildebeest, zebra, and other animals thunder through Kenya's Masai Mara Game Reserve. A holiday to the nearby camps ensures a chance to watch the spectacle and also enjoy a modern-day getaway with the latest camp boasting floor-to-ceiling windows and infinity pool. The best time to visit would be between July and September.

5. Muhu Island, Estonia

The small island of Muhu is known by only a few seasoned travelers. It is often referred to as a foodie pilgrimage site and also boasts biking, horseback riding, or boating with a visit to the seawater hot tub. Helicopters fly regularly between Estonia's charming capital, Tallinn, to the island. It is best to visit from June through early July when the annual Stars of the White Nights Festival takes place.

6. The Aegean Coast of Turkey

The Turkish Aegean is a great alternative to partying on the Mediterranean sea. Filled with gulets, the traditional wooden sailboats, drifting on the azure water, the area is extremely picturesque. It also has quiet swimming coves and empty tables at the harborside cafés as well as a string of Lycian ruins near Fethiye. The best time to holiday in the area in June, July, and September with August being the busiest.

7. Okavango Delta, Botswana

An elephant safari is an exciting and immersive experience that is well worth the trip. Visitors in the area have the opportunity to explore the grasslands with a family of elephants walking nearby. The best time to explore the area is in July and August which is Botswana's cooler months and water levels are high in the lagoons.

8. British Columbia

The Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort is a floating lodge in British Columbia. The area boasts stunning waterways and countryside that can be explored by boat or chopper. Visitors can also hike through cedar forests, visit remote native villages, and take a yoga class on the dock near the fir-lined bay. June through August is the best time to visit especially to sight whales and bears. sightings.

9. Lake Garda, Italy

The mountain backed shores of Lake Garda boasts bicycling under the olive tree, Michelin-starred dining and flowing wine. Tourists can also splurge on a private boat trip to the nearby vineyards, Roman ruins, and lovely harbor towns. The weather in the area is ideal in June and September and many of the festivals occur around the same time.

10. The Norwegian Arctic

The jaw-dropping landscape of the Lofoten Islands, in the northern parts of Norway, is warmed by marine currents and mild temperatures year-round. The area is very similar to coastal Maine and less like the North Pole. In May, June, and July, the sun never sets, the mountains have snowy peaks and the meadows are filled with wildflowers while sunlight floods the white sand beaches. Tourists usually go glamping in tented camps and take guided expeditions like rock climbing, kayaking, deep-sea fishing, and whale safaris.