The Ten Best Places to Visit This Summer

By CNT Editors

July 19,2015; 6:46AM,EDT

 

 

We've heard this refrain all too frequently of late: "Where should I go in August? I want a long-weekend getaway, or maybe I'll just take the week before Labor Day off..." Here's a round up of ten destinations (a few unexpected) that offer great weather, value, food, and culture -- just be sure to book your trip before summer fades.
Reykjavik, Iceland

Credit: Getty
Why now: The sun currently sets around midnight and rises at 2:30 a.m., so you have nearly 24 hours of light to explore the beautiful, otherworldly landscape. We recommend renting a car and driving out to Gullfoss -- the country's most famous (and most impressive) waterfall -- before heading for a soak in the Blue Lagoon. Once back in the city center, vintage shopping is a must, with stores like Spuutnik offering an almost overwhelmingly large inventory.
Action plan: Check Icelandair or low-cost carrier Wow Airlines for deals all summer -- Wow was touting $99 flights one-way not too long ago.
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Mexico City

Credit: Getty
Why now: Mexico's capital -- locally known as the DF, or "Distrito Federal" -- is usually overlooked in favor of beachy getaways in Tulum or Baja California. But Mexico City is more exciting than ever: so big, sprawling, and full of cutting-edge art that you could easily make multiple visits and not see it all.
Action plan: You can (and should) spend a full day in the National Anthropology Museum, but design lovers need to make an appointment to visit the UNESCO-listed home and studio of influential Mexican architect Luis Barragan. Read on: Mexico City City Guide: Where to Eat, Stay, and Play
North Coast of Brazil

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Why now: Northern Brazil is on the cusp of an explosion in tourism from the U.S., so traveling there now -- to the LGBT-friendly, beach-lined states of Rio Grande do Norte, Ceara, and Pernambuco -- means you're ahead of the trend. Expect to hear more about this region, as Brazilian airline TAM is looking to create a hub in one of these three cities to expand its service around northern Brazil (and the region) to North America. The weather is also ideal right now: sunny and in the low 80s, on average.
Action plan: Road trip along the Via Costeira (Coastal Highway) through Natal; discover the "Brazilian Venice" of Recife; or scuba dive the reefs just off Fortaleza. Note: U.S. travelers to Brazil do require a visa, but last year's World Cup means many may already have it in their passports, and should take advantage. That event also means energy is still high in the country, and tourists can benefit from infrastructure enhancements introduced during the games.
Chicago

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Why now: Aside from the near-perfect weather in August? Chicago's food scene is having a moment (with a few notable James Beard awards this year to back up the praise). The 606, an elevated park being compared to NYC's High Line, just opened, and a big new Lagunitas brewery will keep you well hydrated.
Action plan: Book a stay at the Virgin Chicago, the first hotel from Virgin Air's Richard Branson, or the newly rebooted (and historic) Chicago Athletic Association.
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