From typical vacation destinations to completely out-of-the way spots, tripatlas.com/new is bringing you seven hot and sizzling places that are on the radar for summer vacationers across Canada and the U.S.
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Read this article in a Photo Slideshow: 7 Sizzling summer vacation ideas
7 Sizzling summer vacation ideas for 2010
Orlando, Florida, United States
Orlando is always a hot destination for family summer vacations but it’s especially hot this year because on June 18th, 2010, the new Wizarding World of Harry Potter theme park at Universal Orlando Resort is set to open. If you’re not a fan of Harry Potter, there’s always incredible golf, Disney Parks, and other great family attractions!
Iceland
If you’re looking for great value, visit Iceland, which up until very recently, used to be one of the most expensive destinations in Europe. Its recent financial troubles have significantly lowered prices on airfare, tours, and accommodations. Where beers used to cost 6 EUR as recently as 4-5 years ago, you can now get a pint for about 3.50 EUR.
Don’t miss out on the new (stable) erupting volcano in Fimmvorduhals, South Iceland before it fizzles away, a visit to Iceland’s geothermal pools, or its capital city, Reykjavik.
Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada
If the stunning cinematography of Newfoundland & Labrador’s recent commercials (www.newfoundlandlabrador.com) weren’t enough to spark your interest, you should get your eyes checked. Polar bears, icebergs, maritime culture, Viking history, and Cupids – the oldest English settlement in Canada celebrating its 400th anniversary – there’s no place more enlightening than Newfoundland & Labrador this summer. For the best in customized tours of Newfoundland & Labrador, Maxxim Vacations (www.maxximvacations.com) is your best bet.
London, England
London is getting set to host the 2012 Olympic & Paralympic Games and in host-city fashion, is sprucing up its streets, attractions, not to mention raising its prices. This summer is a great time to visit London before it’s even busier with construction and before prices get even higher in the next two years.
Islands of Hawaii, United States
Summer heralds wedding season and it’s looking like Hawaii is huge on the radar for this year’s many soon-to-be-married couples. From Maui, the classic honeymoon destination, to Oahu for an lively Hawaiian scene, Kauai for a nature and outdoor lovers, Big Island for a little of everything, or Lanai for quiet romantic getaways – each island has a distinct flavour to offer visitors.
Rome, Italy
With all the scandal coming out of Rome and Vatican City, this ancient city is more interesting than ever. With 2009’s Angels & Demons film featuring Tom Hanks, based on the novel by Dan Brown; and August 2010’s upcoming Eat, Pray, Love film featuring Julia Roberts, based on the novel by Elizabeth Gilbert – Rome is gaining tons of exposure in Hollywood – and it’s translating into many movie-watchers’ travel plans.
Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
For families looking for a fun, sun, and nature getaway or couples and singles looking for a party, not only is Vegas the perfect place – but with visitors numbers down in 2009 and in the first few months of 2010 – there are lots of fantastic deals to be had – not to mention lots of spanking new stuff. From the new Cirque de Soleil Elvis show to the new Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas, the long-awaited City Center complex, Aria and Vdara hotels, and Crystals shopping complex, it’s reason alone to go back to Vegas.