Summer 2026: Destinations to Beat the Crowds or Flip the Seasons
Albania’s beaches await…
Summer might feel far away, but the best trips are already taking shape. Solidifying your plans now gives you far more choice when it comes to the details that make or break a trip, from flight prices to availability at standout hotels and villas.
Whether they’re eyeing Europe or somewhere farther afield, my savviest clients are asking for destinations off the beaten path that deliver the same exceptional experiences and scenery as the classic European hotspots.
For example, I’ve just planned a multi-stop vacation for clients to Girona, encompassing medieval towns and villages, a remote castle hotel, and a clifftop Costa Brava villa — all the beauty and none of the crowds!
Here’s where else I’m recommending…
Europe with a twist
Four fab options for stunning scenery without the peak-season squeeze
Montenegro: The easy-to-navigate coastal towns make this compact Balkan country an appealing choice for travelers who want to soak up beauty and local culture at an unhurried pace. Kotor and Perast charm with their medieval Old Town and Baroque architecture respectively, while Porto’s waterfront is a hub for high-end dining.
Albania: Situated between the Adriatic and Ionian seas, Albania has a laid-back rhythm that feels reminiscent of Croatia 10 years ago. You’ll also find the kind of picturesque stone towns and unfussy beach clubs at a refreshingly manageable pace and price point.
Portugal: I’m partial to Comporta for laid-back beach luxury and the Azores for dramatic volcanic landscapes. Thrill-seekers should head to Madeira, where they can scale 1,800-meter peaks in the morning and canyon through waterfalls in the afternoon.
Greek islands: For the quintessential Aegean experience, I recommend the privacy and relaxation of villas over hotels — and skipping overly touristed islands for quieter ones where time seems to stand still.
Perito Moreno glacier, Argentina
Head for the Southern Hemisphere..
Two compelling reasons to flip seasons…
Australia & New Zealand: Ski days take on added majesty in New Zealand’s Southern Alps, which sit within easy striking distance of both lakeside towns like Wanaka and the capital of Queenstown. Winter Down Under is also prime whale watching season along Australia’s east coast, and the cooler temperatures make exploring the Outback far more enjoyable, with way fewer visitors at iconic landmarks like the Great Barrier Reef.
South America: Several countries on the continent make it easy to pair two distinct landscapes in one trip. In Chile (my favourite SA country!) you can hit both the ski slopes and wine country. In Argentina, you might combine glacier hiking in Patagonia with a stop in the lakes around Bariloche, and restaurant hopping in Buenos Aires.