THE TOP 5 PLACES TO VISIT THIS SUMMER

Spring might have finally sprung in the U.K. but, for most people who’ve endured the long, cold British winter, it’s time to start planning a summer escape to warmer climates. We're fortunate in that we've already got a holiday booked in less than eight short weeks, but I can't even help myself from wanting to click confirm on another booking, to have one ready for when we land back in an undoubtedly dull England. From chic city breaks to sun-soaked Mediterranean cruises, blissful beach holidays in the Canaries to charming Greek Islands, here are a few of the best places to visit this summer to help you start planning your next holiday.

The Mediterranean
Why choose just one summer holiday destination when you can see the best that the Mediterranean has to offer on board a luxury cruise? With Med cruises, there’s a new beach and city to explore every day, with popular ports of call including Rome, Cannes, Dubrovnik and Barcelona. Families with young children will love life on board a Mediterranean cruise, with daily entertainment, activities for all ages and first-class facilities. Spend your shore days relaxing on sandy white beaches, snorkelling in the Med’s warm blue waters or delving into history, art and architecture in some of the world’s most famous cities. We've never tried a cruise, especially with the boys it's never something I entertained, but more and more I'm seeing families take the plunge across my social media and I have to admit I am tempted. Everything in one place, what's not to love?

Santorini
Greece’s most famous island continues to top the lists of the best places to visit this summer. Known for its spectacular sunsets, white cliff side towns and charming old-world feel, Santorini is a bucket-list destination that lives up to all the hype. Visitors to the island can enjoy the best sunrise and sunset views from Oia – Santorini’s stunning hilltop town – or discover the history of the volcanic isle at the Firá Museum of Prehistoric Thera. Sun-worshippers can find Santorini’s two best beaches in the south – the popular Perivólas and Vlyháda – or head for the unique setting of Red Beach near the famous archaeological site of Akrotiri. Just last year I watched eagerly online as the lovely Emma got hitched in Santorini, it looked so picturesque and beautiful, it's easy to see why they made the choice to head there.

The Canary Islands
Thanks to their year year-round sunny weather, The Spanish Canary Islands are a popular holiday destination in every season, but it’s during the summer that the islands come alive with visitors, events and 24/7 entertainment. Closer to the coast of Africa than they are to Spain, the Canaries are comprised of seven main islands, including the most popular islands of Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. With each island offering a unique landscape and range of activities, both families and couples alike will find the perfect place for their summer holiday. Choose from the volcanic sands and party resorts of Lanzarote, the rolling sand dunes and water sports of Fuerteventura or the sandy beaches and family-friendly waters of Tenerife and Gran Canaria.

Croatia
One of the best places to visit this summer, Croatia continues to be one of the most popular destinations in Europe for both traditional package holiday goers and those onboard Med cruises. Dubrovnik – the country’s most popular port city – might be packed during the summer months but those looking to escape the crowds will find plenty of quieter spots to visit. Choose from the
incredible natural beauty of the Plitvice Lakes National Park, the stunning beaches of Hvar Island or explore some of Croatia’s pretty seaside towns like Rovinj and Moscenice.

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