New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Austria, Switzerland, South Korea: Explore the Best Places to Escape the Heat This Summer

As global heatwaves intensify, many travelers are seeking refuge in cooler destinations to escape scorching summer temperatures. With South Korea experiencing its hottest summer in 117 years, travelers are turning to international destinations known for their cool climates. Digital travel platform Agoda has curated a list of perfect ‘cool-cation’ spots to help travelers beat the heat this summer. From the icy wilderness of New Zealand and Australia to the alpine retreats of Switzerland and Austria, this guide offers a variety of refreshing travel ideas that promise mild temperatures and outdoor adventures.

Beat the Heat: Top Summer Destinations to Stay Cool

As the world faces unprecedented heat, summer travel choices are being shaped by the need for cooler climates. With intense heatwaves affecting large regions, it’s no surprise that travelers are flocking to cooler destinations. Whether it’s the Southern Hemisphere’s winter wonderland or the mountainous highlands of the Northern Hemisphere, a diverse range of destinations offers the perfect summer escape. Here are some of the best places to visit for a summer “cool-cation.”

New Zealand: The Southern Hemisphere’s Winter Wonderland

New Zealand is seeing an incredible surge in interest, especially among travelers from South Korea, with a 379% increase in search volume. Offering prime conditions for winter sports during July and August, New Zealand is an excellent destination for skiers and snowboarders looking for perfect snow conditions. Visitors can enjoy glacier views, alpine hot springs, and stunning natural landscapes that make New Zealand a top choice for a cool escape.

Winter Sports: July and August are ideal months for skiing and snowboarding on New Zealand’s South Island.
Scenic Views: Tourists can enjoy breathtaking glacier landscapes and pristine alpine environments.
Relaxation: Unwind at natural hot springs nestled in the mountains.

Australia: Snowy Mountains and Coastal Adventures

Australia’s snow-capped mountains and cool, breezy weather are attracting more visitors each year, with a 28% rise in interest from travelers seeking a summer escape. The Snowy Mountains in New South Wales offer a cool getaway where tourists can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities. Phillip Island’s iconic Penguin Parade is another must-see attraction, where visitors can watch Little Penguins waddle ashore at sunset, offering a memorable and serene wildlife experience.

Winter Sports: Australia’s Snowy Mountains offer perfect conditions for winter sports.
Wildlife: Visit Phillip Island for the famous Penguin Parade, one of Australia’s top natural attractions.
Cool Breezes: Enjoy the cooler climate in Australia’s elevated regions during the summer months.

Canada: The Ultimate Cool-Cation

Canada is renowned for its crisp summer temperatures and abundance of outdoor activities, making it a prime destination for a summer getaway. Searches for Canadian destinations have risen by 91%, with travelers seeking the refreshing coolness of its northern territories. From hiking on the Athabasca Glacier to paddling through Ontario’s Algonquin Park, Canada offers numerous opportunities to enjoy nature and cool off during the hot summer months.

Glacier Tours: Explore the iconic Athabasca Glacier and other scenic locations.
Outdoor Adventures: Hike, paddle, or bike through Ontario’s Algonquin Park or the Rocky Mountains.
Mild Summer Temperatures: Enjoy the cooler temperatures typical of Canada’s northern regions.

Austria: Alpine Relief and Scenic Trails

Austria has seen a 44% increase in searches as travelers flock to the country for its cooler alpine retreats. Austria’s mountains provide a welcome respite from the heat with opportunities for hiking, biking, and swimming in crystal-clear lakes like Wolfgang, Hallstatt, and Achensee. The idyllic scenery, combined with mild summer temperatures, makes Austria a perfect summer destination for those seeking a peaceful, cool retreat in the heart of Europe.

Alpine Activities: Hike, bike, and swim in crystal-clear mountain lakes.
Breathtaking Views: Explore the picturesque Austrian Alps, offering unparalleled natural beauty.
Cool Temperatures: Enjoy the cooler climate at higher elevations during the summer months.

Switzerland: Scenic Peaks and Pristine Lakes

Switzerland continues to be a favorite among travelers looking to escape the heat, with a 4% rise in search volume for Swiss summer getaways. Known for its cool climate, Switzerland offers a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, including scenic train rides to snow-capped peaks, ice cave explorations, and swimming or sailing in pristine glacial lakes. Whether it’s hiking through the Swiss Alps or simply relaxing by a serene lake, Switzerland remains one of Europe’s top “cool-cation” destinations.

Mountain Adventures: Take scenic train rides to snow-capped peaks or explore the country’s famous ice caves.
Glacial Lakes: Swim, sail, or simply relax by Switzerland’s pristine lakes like Lake Geneva and Lake Lucerne.
Outdoor Activities: Hike or bike in the Swiss Alps to enjoy the cool summer temperatures.

Choosing the Right Cool-Cation Destination

When selecting a “cool-cation” destination, consider factors such as the type of activities you enjoy, the climate you seek, and the destination’s popularity among other travelers. Whether you’re looking for a winter sports adventure, a wildlife encounter, or a peaceful retreat in the mountains, there is a perfect destination for everyone.

Adventure Seekers: New Zealand, Canada, and Austria are excellent choices for those seeking winter sports, hiking, and outdoor adventures.
Wildlife Lovers: Australia’s Penguin Parade and Canada’s wilderness provide unique opportunities to experience nature up close.
Nature Enthusiasts: Switzerland and Austria offer beautiful landscapes with numerous outdoor activities for all skill levels.

Booking Your Cool-Cation with Agoda

Agoda makes it easy to book your ideal summer getaway, offering over 6 million holiday properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities to choose from. Travelers can explore a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, resorts, and vacation homes, ensuring that your cool-cation is as comfortable as it is refreshing. Agoda’s platform provides travelers with the flexibility to customize their trip and find the best deals on flights, hotels, and activities.

Over 6 Million Properties: Find the perfect stay with Agoda’s wide range of accommodation options.
Convenient Booking: Agoda’s platform makes it easy to book flights, hotels, and activities for your cool-cation.
Exclusive Deals: Visit Agoda.com/deals or download the Agoda mobile app for the best travel deals.

Conclusion

As the summer heatwave continues to intensify across the globe, cooler destinations offer the perfect escape. Whether you’re looking to hit the slopes in New Zealand and Australia, enjoy the alpine beauty of Austria and Switzerland, or explore the wilderness of Canada, there is no shortage of breathtaking “cool-cation” spots. Agoda’s platform allows travelers to seamlessly book their trips and take advantage of the best deals to enjoy a refreshing, adventurous summer escape.

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