Memorial Day weekend, which begins on Friday, is the unofficial start of the summer travel season in the United States. And it’s a pleasant surprise. America is finally, finally available for warm-weather activities after a year and a half of lockdown, quarantines, and limitations. According to Airbnb, everyone is looking forward to a getaway in the great outdoors.
From Whitefish, Montana, to the seaside resorts in Acadia National Park, below you will find the three sought-after wilderness locations and mountain villages. Let the preparations for your summer trip begin.
#1. Whitefish, Montana, Full of Art Galleries and Boutiques
The quaint town of Whitefish, Montana, on the outskirts of Glacier National Park, is full of mom-and-pop businesses, art galleries, and a bevy of boutiques selling lovely oddities. A visit to Imagination Station, a vintage toy store, is a must. If you get hungry, you may always drop by Cafe Kandahar, a restaurant run by Andy Blanton, a James Beard Award-winning chef. After that, stop by Sweet Peaks for a delicious scoop of ice cream. There is also this magnificent log home with over 75 feet of private lakefront or this well-appointed condo close to town for overnight.
#2. Acadia National Park, Maine, a Great Place for Adventure Outdoors
On Maine’s Mount Desert Island, the rugged site of Acadia National Park, it’s difficult to pick just one town when going outdoors. Some of the people’s favorite Airbnbs include this charming, airy home in Seal Harbor that is “seconds” from the park entrance, this glamping tent in Bar Harbor, and this adorable cliffside property with over 50 five-star reviews. Is there anything else worth seeing? Under Canvas has opened a new, magnificent campground on 100 acres with 1,200 feet of shoreline.
#3. Northern Wisconsin, a Popular Summertime Booking Zone
Northern Wisconsin is one of Airbnb’s most popular summertime booking zones, particularly around Lake Superior and the Chequamegon Nicolet National Forest. It’s understandable: the stunning, rough landscape is easily accessible from large cities like Minneapolis and Milwaukee. In Ashland, relax in this family-friendly Airbnb that’s located on the water. A visit to the Apostle Island National Lakeshore is a must while you’re there. Do you want to feel more like you’re in the woods? This modern, rural cabin in Comstock is a great place outdoors to find peace deep in the woods. This may be a stretch, but according to Airbnb, this off-grid cabin, located two hours south of the National Forest, is the most wish-listed property in the entire state. Don’t forget to order a scoop of Blue Moon ice cream no matter where you are.
5 Destinations That Rely Heavily on Tourism
At the moment, there’s a pretty good chance that you’ve explored every inch of your house. After all, what else is there to explore? With more and more people staying inside and with the prospect of travel slipping away from us as the days go on, it’s easy to assume that those with the travel bugs are the ones who are struggling the most. However, what about the destinations that rely on tourism to keep their economy booming?
Greece
If you have ever been to Greece, you’ll know that the peak season is full to the brim with tourists who stay in local family-run hotels and eat in traditional restaurants. However, with peak season closed off due to the ongoing pandemic, it’s causing even more issues for those who rely on tourism to make their money and to keep themselves employed.
Maldives
Although the floating huts and the white sands of the Maldives are normally enjoyed by those with a bit more money in their pockets, celebrities and rich folk have taken this time to stay at home and curb their travel bug. Unfortunately, this country relies on tourists as a way of life for those who live there.
Philippines
Many people travel to the Philippines each year for the beautiful landscape and the cheap full moon parties. However, it seems as though flights to the Philippines are seeing a huge drop in numbers. This country depends on young backpackers and adventure seekers to pay their bills and keep their economy on track.
India
India is notoriously poverty-stricken, and often the pull of tourists is what brings in the big bucks for those who would otherwise earn nothing. Because serious travel restrictions are currently in place, India is not only struggling with a pandemic, but they’re also struggling with a loss of income.
Let’s just hope things will get back to normal soon enough.