I don’t know about the rest of you who are stuck up here in the Northern Hemisphere, but I am beginning to get a bit of cabin fever with this cold, gray winter.
My body is suffering from severe sunlight deprivation, causing me to experience a constant feeling of malaise. Granted, I’m sure the smog here in China hasn’t been helping at all to ease the normal doom and gloom that begins to set in for me around this time every year. But regardless of the air quality issues, this time of year is always the most difficult for me. I get tired. I get antsy. I get sad. And that’s when I start to dream — of places warmer, sunnier, and happier.
I could use a pick-me-up, and I figured you could, too. So here’s a look a five places in the Mediterranean that will have the remedy for your winter blues:
1.) Mallorca, Spain
Believe it or not, there’s more to see in Mallorca than Rafael Nadal. (Oh … am I the only one who would actually go there just for that?) This beautiful Spanish Mediterranean island boasts beautiful beaches with stunning cliffs overlooking pristine turquoise waters, as well as beautiful mountains ripe for hiking. You can enjoy the water on a boat trip around the island, or hop in and explore the area’s best marine life while snorkeling. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or a more active holiday in the sun, Mallorca has what you’re looking for.
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2.) Malta
Malta is truly a gem of the Mediterranean, though it doesn’t seem to receive the accolades of its nearby neighbors of Italy and Greece. Malta is a merge between Sicillian and North African culture and cuisine. Malta is not lacking in impressive architecture or beaches, this tiny island nation offers ancient fortifications, ruins, cathedrals, and no shortage of beautiful beaches to relax. Malta will impress you with its unique character unlike any other place in the Mediterranean.
3.) Naxos, Greece
My dad and I visited this under-rated island in Greece’s Cyclades back in 2009. It provides the usual benefits of Greek islands — sparkling waters, relaxing pebble beaches, and delicious food (especially of the seafood variety, if that’s your thing). When you tire of lounging, you can climb to the top of Mt. Zeus, the island’s tallest peak, or explore the unfinished temple of Apollo, the most popular attraction on the island. The best part about Naxos? It doesn’t have anywhere near the ceowd volume of some of the other nearby islands, namely Santorini and Mykonos. Want to really escape it all? Head to the Pebble Beach in the island’s northern town of Apollonas (Apollon). You’ll be treated to a gorgeous view that you’ll have nearly all to yourself.
4.) The Algarve, Portugal
I first heard about the Algarve nearly ten years ago and became captivated by its sparkling turquoise waters, jagged cliffs, and charming coastal towns. Since then, I’ve definitely heard mixed reviews of the place, but for some reason it still beckons me. The Algarve has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat or a lively beach atmosphere with lively night life opportunities. Although summer is a great time to escape to the Algarve, it is quite busy and more expensive. Those looking to travel more cheaply should consider spring and fall as alternative times to visit.
5.) Turkey’s Turquoise Coast
When you think of stunning coastal landscapes and relaxing, Turkey probably does not come to mind — but it should. It’s landscape is quite similar to Greece, but it’s coastal towns less frequented by tourists. Turkey’s “Turquoise Coast” runs along the western side of the country, connecting many seaside towns through a convenient bus system. You can relax on stunning beaches, explore nearby Roman ruins, or hike the nearby countryside and be treated to stunning views of the sea.
I don’t know about you, but just thinking about these places has given me hope that warmer weather and sunnier skies are just a few weeks down the road. There is no shortage of summer holiday destinations in the Mediterranean. If you plan to visit any of these locations during peak season (usually June through early September), plan to start booking your hotel and tour company reservations now to ensure the availability of your top choices.
Are you, too, tired of winter? Where do you plan to escape this summer?
This post was supported by www.thomascook.com
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