It’s that time of year again: the summer sun is beating down, and you want to soak it up!
It’d be nice to go for a swim in warm waters, feel hot sand between your toes, and go on an excellent adventure.
And a summer sun getaway in 2015 doesn’t need to cost the Earth: there are thousands of cheap holidays on offer.
But if you want to get the most out of your money, choose from these top six summer sun destinations.
Paphos, Cyprus
Reportedly the birthplace of goddess Aphrodite, Paphos is a must-see area in Cyprus.
This coastal area has it all: gorgeous beaches, ancient sites, quaint cobbled streets, pavement cafés, a growing nightlife scene, and excellent sunbathing opportunities.
Particularly renowned for its Neolithic ruins, don’t miss The Temple of Aphrodite and Tombs of the Kings, rock-carved Egyptian catacombs.
North Italy and Milan
Northern Italy offers some spectacular backpacking scenery.
If you want an urban experience in 2015, Milan is an ideal choice thanks to Expo Milano 2015 (May 1 – October 31).
This year, the city is a global showcase for sustainability, food, and energy under the heading “Feeding the Planet.”
With over 20 million visitors expected, you can view the futuristic ideas presented in these exhibitions.
For a more relaxing experience, head to the beautiful Lake Como or coastal Portofino, only two hours’ drive from Milan.
The Balearic Islands – Majorca
With prices reducing all the time, the beautiful island of Majorca is a popular destination for cheap holidays because of the affordability of the flights and accommodation.
This is because you’re practically guaranteed sunshine for a lot of the year, great beaches, delicious good, exciting nightlife and historical villages to visit.
Bali
This is a taste of paradise, which isn’t as expensive as you might think.
You can find great deals to this part of Asia, and with some research, it’s easy to find local digs and food to make up the deficit in flights costs.
What’s more, the jungle terrain, white beaches, the cuisine, and the friendly people, all make Bali a dream destination for a little R&R.
Provence, South of France
If you’re looking for a simple yet beautiful way of life, go to Provence in the heart of the French countryside.
With outstanding poppy and lavender fields, rolling hills, hot temperatures, fine cheeses, and bold wines, Provence is the authentic French experience.
Thailand
Yes, it’s a popular backpacking destination, but Thailand is more accessible than ever before.
What makes Thailand a real draw is that it can cater to any holiday, whether you want to party in Koh Pha Ngan, go diving in Ko Tao or have a family friendly beach vacation in Phuket, you can find what you’re looking for, on any budget, in this exotic Southeast Asian nation.
Take the time this year to go somewhere amazing without worrying about your bank balance, by trying one of these budget-friendly destinations. Good luck, and happy holidays!
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This story was brought to you in partnership with TUI.
Planning a trip? The Go Backpacking team uses and recommends:
- Skyscanner for researching flights
- Hostelworld for booking hostels
- Airbnb for renting rooms and homes
- Rail Europe for train passes
- World Nomads for travel insurance
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Glad Provence is mentioned, since it’s where I come from ! I have to say it is dedinitely a must-do ! Although I tend to flee the summertime there as it can get very crowded.
These all sound like amazing places to soak up a little summer sun. Bali is SO on my list! I’m spending most of my summer in and around the Lake District in NW England, which I suspect is going to feel a little less tropical… Maybe one of these for a little winter sunshine though?