Best Vacation Spots of Summer 2015
Enviable vacation photos have been filling our Instagram and Facebook feeds all summer long, but just where are these exotic locales everyone has been traveling to?
The beaches are breathtaking, the hotel designs are unbelievable, and the shops, restaurants and cafes are inconceivably chic. Well, we have managed to discover where some of these mystery places are so you can start planning your next summer vaca.
Scroll through for a guide on beautiful cities, where to stay, what to eat, and what to do!
Tulum, Mexico
Move aside Cabo and Cancun, because Tulum is the new ‘it’ spot of Mexico. In the past year or so, the coastal town which was once merely a laid-back resort village with hippie vibes has become a destination for bloggers, celebrities, models and makers alike. Just remember — although the vacationers look glamorous, Tulum is still developing.
Get Your Design Fix:
Coqui Coqui is hotel, boutique, perfumery and source of major design inspiration rolled into one pretty package. The hotel is owned by accessories designer Francesca Bonato and her model turned architect husband, Nicolas Malleville. Tropical dark wood, natural stuccos, and Mayan pastels complement the minimal aesthetic of the hotel’s seven rustic bungalows. Almost all decor is locally made and Bonato’s shop, selling linens, bags, jewelry, sandals and accessories lives on the property as well.
Where the Cool Kids Eat:
Hartwood Tulum is by leaps and bounds, the foodie destination of Tulum. The eats are spicy and authentic and the atmosphere is fantastic. The only thing — there’s a guarantee you’ll be waiting in line for a table.
Split, Croatia
Split is Croatia’s second largest city, nicknamed the “Mediterranean Flower” for its balanced and beautiful climate. The city is spotted with Gothic and Renaissance architecture, as well as an ancient palace built by Roman Emperor Diocletian. Take the city’s marble walkways and explore by foot to discover historic landmarks, boutiques, restaurants and bars, or for a view of the turquoise waters, just peruse the seaside promenade.
Rent this Apartment:
The Divota Apartment Hotel is situated in one of Split’s older neighborhoods and has all the charm of a small village farmhouse. You can either book a spacious apartment or a regular hotel room, which are both fully updated with modern amenities. Exposed stone walls and wooden beams mixed with sharp, white, modern decor give this hotel a unique look of old meets new; a perfect complement to the rich history of Croatia.
Get Your Eats:
If you’re seeking authentic Mediterranean food in a chic atmosphere, Corto Maltese Freestyle Food is your spot. The menu is versatile offering everything from fresh fruit to fish and sandwiches. The bar is packed full of delectable drink options and kitchen accessories that may make you think of your Martha Stewart obsessed aunt (this is a good thing). Exposed brick walls, vintage flair, and good food reflect the unique flavor of Split.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
Bursting with more color than a box of crayons, the Amalfi coast is a bold and eclectic paradise. Every Vogue editor paid a visit to the pastel-hued coastal cliffside this summer, and for good reason. No matter what you’re doing or where you’re staying, the Amalfi Coast makes you feel like you’re experiencing the finer side of life.
Get Your Design Fix:
Ville TreVille is quite likely the most beautiful and well-designed hotel in all of Positano. Full of character and luxury, the exclusive villa offers pristine white walls, hand painted tile work, rooms full of art, eclectic patterns and glorious outdoor lounge areas.
Best Place to Sip a Limoncello:
You absolutely cannot visit the Amalfi Coast without having at least three limoncello’s during your trip. The sweet, syrupy liqueur has been made in the city of Sorrento for centuries, but you have to find the right spot to enjoy it. Our pick? The huge, colonial style garden of Cafe Latino Sorrento. Lush orange and lemon trees surround quaint tables, gazebos, and sofas at this serene spot where you can easily move right from drinks to dinner.
Phuket Island, Thailand
Wondering where those outrageously gorgeous beach photos on your newsfeed, complete with mountainous rock formations emerging from emerald-green waters were taken? Probably somewhere in the islands of Thailand. The province of Phuket is a gem. Head to Phi Phi Island for breathtaking beaches and a laid back vibe you can’t find anywhere else.
Live Large on the Beach:
Aleenta Phuket Resort and Spa is the big win for resorts in Phuket. Sleek, modern architecture interacts with the tropical environment organically — it was actually recently awarded the title of Thailand’s Best Small Green Resort.
Where to Shop, Dine & Peruse:
Phuket Old Town is nothing short of quirky. This is where old meets new, the bizarre meshes with the normal and you can find anything from garden accessories and wedding dresses to ancient books. The real treat of Phuket Old Town is the concept of fusing dining and art, which many of the area’s restaurants have taken on. Siam Indigo is the most distinct, featuring ceramic mosaic art, exposed brickwork, a hacienda-style patio, and a small boutique that sells original clothes and jewelry.
Montauk, New York
We can’t forget about the good old U.S. of A., and the Hamptons are the summer escape for many Americans. Montauk hasn’t always been considered part of the prideful and affluent vacation spot, but in recent years an influx of new, chic establishments has put it on the map.
Find Your Home:
Vacationing in Montauk is really all about where you stay. Since many people have vacation homes, if you want the true experience you should rent out an Airbnb. We’re loving this eclectic waterfront cottage, but Montauk has plenty of other gorgeous rentals to choose from. If you would rather spend your precious vacation time at a full-service hotel that embodies the town’s newly discovered ‘trendiness’, The Surf Lodge is where it’s at.
Where to Eat, Drink, and Party:
The Surf Lodge has pretty much become Montauk’s one-stop shop for food, partying, and lodging. Celebs, It-girls and anyone who wants to make an appearance frequents the contemporary coastal hotel in the evenings. Taste test some freshly caught seafood, pick up a souvenir at the hotel’s chic shop and catch a cool outdoor concert.
Bathing in cerulean waters, sleeping in boutique hotels, and taste-testing the local cuisines of these hotspot destinations sounds like the ultimate way to spend a summer — and even though it’s almost over, it’s never too early to start planning your next vacation!
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xoxo, Laurel & Wolf
