It’s officially one week until fall, even if the weather hasn’t quite gotten the memo yet here in Chicago. While these summer temperatures are sticking around, we’ll be dreaming of crisp fall days perfect for cozy adventures. From the historic streets of Innsbruck and Mexico City to the peaceful quiet of the Oregon coast and a small town in the Canadian Rockies, we’ve put together a list of places across the globe to look forward to this coming season. But honestly, any of these spots make for a memorable trip regardless of the time of year. Start planning, and get ready to take off…

There’s something magical about coffee shops. The second you get a whiff of the beans while walking up to the door, it’s an instant mood booster. You know your favorite drink is minutes away from being in your hands, and perhaps your favorite snack too. Between the music, the vibe, the friendly baristas, and the (usually) comfy seating, it’s the perfect place to pass time no matter if you have a to-do list to tackle or plan to catch up on reading. 

With PTO controlling how much (or little) people can travel over the last few decades, itineraries have, somewhere along the way, become packed. Cramming as much as possible into a trip has become the norm, leaving us with experiences that feel overwhelming and stressful. You’re tired when you take off toward your destination, and you’re exhausted by the time you get home. Sayings like “I need a vacation to recover from my vacation” became a light-hearted way to describe a trip that was probably - if we’re being honest - overplanned. 

Heat waves ripple across the horizon as the sun’s intense rays sting your skin. Surrounded by prickly soldiers that have seen the entire history of America’s hottest desert and mountains of sand that seem never-ending, you have arrived. Welcome to Joshua Tree, California. 

Summertime in Chicago has an energy you can’t experience anywhere else. Because winters are long and can be brutal, Chicagoans go all out, from patio brunches to beach days. Even if it’s one hundred degrees and humid, rooftops will be packed and the beach will be buzzing. Whether you’re a local or visiting for a few days, we’ve got your guide to summer in Chicago, from where to eat to how to escape the heat when it becomes too much. Grab your sandals and let’s get going!

Summer isn’t for everyone. We know, we know…it’s a small group of individuals. But they exist, nonetheless. In our defense, the heat waves and heat domes are overachieving this year with record-breaking temperatures across the US and Europe. With this in mind, July through September is perfect for those who favor cooler weather to go south…WAY south. The southern hemisphere is in the thick of winter, so destinations like Peru and Australia are much more temperate if the heat isn’t your speed. If staying north of the equator is more realistic, plenty of destinations have milder summers for a “coolcation,” especially in northern Europe and the upper reaches of North America (although check the forecast to pack appropriately). 

Boston is one of the most friendly cities to visit as a solo traveler. With walkability, easily navigable public transit, and friendly locals (yes, we are breaking the stigma!), there isn’t one reason you shouldn’t visit Boston on your own. The New England city has plenty to explore, from historical sites and unique museums to sweet treats, old markets, and more. Boston is full of eclectic neighborhoods, charming cobblestone streets, and local independent stores to discover. And everything seems to have a story attached. From the oyster craze of the 1800s to a still unsolved heist that turned the art world upside down, exploring Boston is more than just visiting a few important sites. It’s becoming absorbed in centuries of people and their lives, where you can feel the impact of everyone from immigrant fishermen to influential historical figures. 

We try not to play favorites, but it’s hard not to name Boston as one of our favorite cities. The New England destination is packed with history, culture, and charm, offering endless things to explore. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, history buff, nature lover, or anything else, Boston has something for everyone to enjoy. The waterfront city has seen centuries of milestones and history, with many of those moments captured in the streets and buildings. Whether you’re visiting Boston for the first time or returning for the hundredth, here are twelve things everyone should do at least once. 

Boston is hard not to love. There’s so much the coastal New England city has to offer. Nearly four centuries of history can be felt in every cobblestone and brick-paved road. Cultural roots have been planted deep from heavy immigrant movements that shaped the city we now know today. And thanks to those immigrants, a diverse food scene that can’t be replicated anywhere else. The people of Boston are proud of where they come from. They’re proud of their ancestry, their history, and, most importantly, their sports teams. Boston has played a significant role in pop culture, with every side of the city represented from the grittiest corners of Southie to the privileged halls of Harvard and MIT. It’s a place everyone should visit at least once, but don’t say we didn’t warn you if you find yourself returning time and again. 

Hey there, spring! She’s finally here, and if you live in the northern part of the continental US, nicer weather has been hard-earned. Spring break travel has often been geared towards families and college kids, but those of us child-free adults who made it through false spring three times over deserve a seasonal getaway, too! This article is dedicated to anyone who needs to get away from home for a bit (aka, everyone!). Pack a bag, and get ready for a little sunshine amidst the rainy days that spring brings. And don’t forget your sunscreen because that summer tan is long gone, my friends! 

Nothing beats a hot cup of cocoa by a roaring fireplace while wearing comfy sweats wrapped in a blanket. Add a good book during a heavy snowfall, and it’s about as perfect a day as it gets! Invented by the Danish, “hygge” simply means cozy, and it’s how we should all winter. According to the official Visit Denmark website, “hygge means creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people…Perhaps hygge explains why Danes are some of the happiest people in the world.” Inspired by this way of life, we’ve put together 8 destinations to visit this winter to embrace a hygge vibe for a well-deserved break. 

January is an underrated time of year to plan a trip. Holiday travel is over, and much of the northern hemisphere is experiencing cold weather. Many people are inclined to stay home, whether that’s to avoid the risk of travel delays or blowing through precious PTO so early in the year. Whatever the reason, tourism crowds ease up after the holiday rush, and time seems to slow down. For those who choose to embrace the heart of winter, there’s something about exploring while the air is crisp and meeting people in warm, cozy restaurants. If you’re looking to get away, you might consider one of these destinations for January travel.