Top 5 International Escapes for Summer 2021

The weather is getting hot, and so are these international destinations, according to shopping data from leisure travel advisors. Here are the five summer destinations travel advisors are exploring for travel this summer.

1. Cancun, Mexico

Cancun is always a crowd pleaser when it comes to international travel. So, why is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico consistently a fan favorite?

For starters, it’s so easy to get to Cancun from many airports around the U.S. Plus, the top-notch resort and hotel scene that lines the pristine, white sand beaches in the hotel zone is unlike any other international vacation hot spot. The city is most renowned for its ancient Mayan ruins; great dive sites filled with colorful coral reefs and sea life; and a variety of inland cenotes that attract diving enthusiasts.

In fact, 69% of travel advisors reported that this is the top destination they’re shopping for their clients this summer. For hotels, travel advisors are considering Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa, Sunscape Akumal Beach Resort & Spa, Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun and Now Sapphire Riviera Cancun.

2. Aruba

Aruba may be a tiny island, but they sure know how to pack a lot of fun and happiness into their 70 square miles of paradise.

The top things to do in Aruba aren’t set in stone, they’re written in sand. They vary by day, by trip and by traveler. Here, you’ll discover sparkling seas for snorkeling, scuba diving and surfing; desert landscapes to explore by foot, Jeep or ATV; and a variety of wildlife, cacti and volcanic rock formations to see up close. From 5Ks to festivals, from contests to Carnival, there is never a dull moment on this happy island when it comes to cultural events. It’s even known as a world-class destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Plus, Brides Magazine named Aruba one of the world’s top honeymoon hot spots and Scuba Diving Magazine recognized this as one of the top wreck diving destinations in the Caribbean.

Aruba was already considered one of the world’s safest vacation destinations for travelers before the pandemic. Unlike other Caribbean islands, this island rarely has a rainy day, as it lies on the southern edge of the hurricane belt which gives summer visitors extra peace of mind during the upcoming storm season.

Travel advisors have shared their love for Aruba and the hotels they’re looking at for summer trips include RIU Palace Antillas, Barcelo Aruba and Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino.

3. Nassau, Bahamas

Summers are better in the Bahamas, especially when it comes to discovering a world of wonderful water activities and some of the best entertainment in the Caribbean.

On Nassau Paradise Island, you can coast on a 45-foot catamaran for a coral reef excursion, sightsee on a shipwreck on a half-day scuba diving trip, stroll the bottom of a shark exhibit for a little face-to-nose time, or even try Snuba, which combines the simplicity of snorkeling with the wonders of underwater breathing.

As for entertainment experiences, try your luck at two Vegas-style casinos – one of which is the largest casino in the Caribbean. For an authentic Bahamian experience, try The Arawak Cay Fish Fry on West Bay Street in downtown Nassau. Satisfy every appetite and every palate at beachfront cafés, celebrity-chef restaurants, seaside bars and grills or familiar fast-food spots.

When looking for places to stay, Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, RIU Palace Paradise Island are some of travel advisors’ favorites.

4. Montego Bay, Jamaica

Whether you’re up for an adventure, ready to tie the knot or simply want some R&R in paradise, MoBay has you covered.

Jamaica’s second-largest city, Montego Bay, is booming with attractions and activities for every type of traveler. Take family or friends on a fun-filled day over to Paintball Jamaica or ride down the Martha Brae River on a carefully hand-crafted bamboo raft surrounded by nothing but greenery and sparkling water. Or have some fun in the sun at Doctor’s Cave Beach, the city’s most famous beach. Another must-see area here is the picture-perfect Church Street that is home to romantic, historic buildings like St. James Parish Church. Sharpe Square is also a can’t miss experience to take in where travelers can imbibe at exuberant pubs and clubs, a wide array of eateries or incredible artistry and craftmanship from locals.

Travel advisors are considering hotels like Iberostar Rose Hall Beach, RIU Palace Tropical Bay and Royalton White Sands for this summer.

5. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Punta Cana is the leisure lover’s ultimate getaway to escape to this summer. This seaside tourist haven is a playground for all levels of thrill seekers.

Located on the most eastern cape of the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana is home to one of the largest networks of caves in the world. It’s also a golfer’s destination, with 10 courses located all along the strip; a seaside escape with fine dining options and luxurious marinas to explore; and a wellness oasis that features the country’s top spas, including the only Six Senses in the Caribbean.

All-inclusive resorts and boutique hideaways offer all the perks to modern beachfront living. The hotels travel advisors are looking at for summer getaways include Dreams Onyx Resort & Spa, Dreams Dominicus La Romana and RIU Bambu.

Tell us where you’re traveling internationally this summer in the comments below.