Americans are likely to choose alternative travel destinations this year.
New research from Intrepid Travel has revealed that 84% of US adults will travel this summer but two in three are scaling back their plans due to the economy, seeking unexpected and affordable destinations. “Americans are more likely to choose alternative destinations over tried-and true tourist hotspots for their vacation due to increasing economic pressures, and we are excited to help them experience the road less traveled,” says Matt Berna, President of the Americas at Intrepid Travel.
The following travel themes offer both groups and solo travelers the chance to experience a wide variety of summer activities while enjoying a fun-filled vacation.
Hikers can discover a wide array of stunning landscapes.
Domestic Dupes Travel
As opposed to flying to Europe to experience Tour du Mont Blanc, The Wind River Range, Wyoming, is one of America’s great wilderness areas. Hikers can choose a favorite section of a 100-mile-long strip of stunning, jagged mountains extending southeast of Yellowstone National Park through Wyoming. If you’re looking for incredible views with no crowds, this is it. Wildland Trekking offers several Wind River Range hiking trips including llama treks that allow you to hike deep into these Wyoming mountains, and do it carrying only a light day pack.
Asheville is known for its wide variety of art.
Artistic Travel
For an off-the-beaten-path summer vacation, journey to the charming mountain town of Asheville, North Carolina, a haven for artists and foodies. With a thriving downtown that boasts a collection of art galleries, local boutiques, regular live music festivals and more than 60 breweries, Asheville offers a cultural experience that is sure to please the art lover. Stay in the midst of all the action by booking a room at the city’s newest hotel, Embassy Suites by Hilton Asheville Downtown, which boasts a rooftop Italian-inspired eatery, Soprana Rooftop Cucina, with awe-inspiring views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Immerse in the vast landscape surrounding Grand Junction.
Nature Lovers Travel
With silent travel, slow tourism and unique, off-the-grid wellness experiences top of mind, Hotel Maverick’s “Silence, Solitude and Serenity” program, in partnership with western Colorado native Zebulon Miracle, well known for his former hospitality role as “Curator of Curiosity,” offers guests the chance to immerse in the vast landscape surrounding Grand Junction. He provides a guided exploration of the remote canyonlands, which draw fewer crowds while rivaling the stunning natural features of destinations like Canyonlands National Park and the Grand Canyon. Throughout the customizable experience, guests will venture into some of the less explored and remote areas of Western Colorado to learn and listen to the eons of geology, centuries of history and countless natural wonders.
Activities are centered around horseback riding excursions.
Equine Travel
C Lazy U Ranch, an all-inclusive experience with 8,500 acres of land to explore and more than 200 horses to meet, welcomes all family members to enjoy their own activities during their stay. C Lazy U is committed to family focused programming that allows for a balanced mix of shared moments and personal time. Centered around horseback riding excursions, the ranch offers robust kids and teens programs for ages three to 17 with designated experienced counselors, where each group engages in camp-like activities bringing imagination and adventure to life. Teens are given the chance to partake in pursuits such as whitewater rafting trips, the ropes course, cattle clinics, go-cart racing and overnight camping.
Enjoy a fine glass of wine after a day of adventure.
Coastal Culinary Travel
Summer on the coast just hits different, and whether traveling to the east or west it’s the salty ocean air, coastal design influences and freshly caught seafood that capture travelers seeking a waterfront escape. At The Lodge at Bodega Bay, nautical design and spacious layouts in freshly renovated rooms and suites transport guests to what feels like a private island getaway, situated along the Pacific Coast Highway and the rugged Sonoma Coast. Just steps from Doran Beach, one of Sonoma Coast’s most popular summer destinations, guests receive day passes and equipment for all ages, setting the scene for a relaxing day at the beach or coastal adventures of kitesurfing, paddle boarding and whale watching. After a day of exploring the picturesque fishing village of Bodega Bay, guests can retreat to the property’s signature restaurant, Drakes Sonoma Coast, serving locally sourced coastal California cuisine by new executive chef Christopher Lemerand.
Guests can learn the basics of surfing.
Olympian Travel
Located halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego, Dana Point is a pristine California beach town welcoming travelers to learn two up-and-coming Olympic sports, surfing and sailing. A coastal escape with boundless opportunity for seaside adventures, Dana Point’s ties to surfing are deeply rooted. The destination offers visitors authentic surf experiences, from learning about the sports evolution at the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center to participating in private surf lessons for all ages and skill levels with Girl in the Curl Surf Shop. Guests can also put their sailor cap on to set sail at sea with Westwind Sailing, which provides safe and educational sailing lessons and rentals. For those who wish to be at the Olympic Games in Paris, Dana Point visitors can indulge in French-inspired dining at Maison Café + Market, a breezy European culinary shop serving hearty seasonal plates and libations, and at Bonjour Café, an intimate bistro offering daytime café fare.