Not everyone dreams of sunbathing on a crowded beach or sweating through humid city tours in the middle of July. Some of us—yes, you in the hoodie—would rather skip the heatstroke and find cooler ways to travel. Literally. If the thought of tanning gives you anxiety and your idea of “summer fun” involves not overheating, then buckle up, because this is for you.
Escape to Higher Ground: The Alps, But Make It Summer
Switzerland and Austria aren’t just for ski bunnies. In summer, destinations like Zermatt and Innsbruck shed their snowy layers for lush, sun-kissed meadows and breezy alpine trails. Here, your summer days are spent hiking through wildflower-covered valleys, enjoying clear mountain air, and dining on hearty European fare. Evenings? A cosy blanket, refreshing drinks, and perhaps a view of the Matterhorn glowing under a pastel sky. It’s summer with built-in air conditioning …no sweating required.
Think Coastal, Not Tropical
There’s a big difference between a refreshing ocean breeze and full-on tropical humidity. For a cooler take on beachside bliss, San Sebastián in Spain is your spot. It offers Atlantic-cooled air, charming streets, and a tapas culture that’s practically a religion. Over on the other side of the world, Bar Harbor in Maine delivers lobster rolls, seaside cliffs, and sea mist mornings, giving you that salty summer vibe without the scorch.
Be a Northern Explorer
The sun may hang in the sky longer up north, but the temperatures stay kind. Bergen in Norway is a cosy, colourful city framed by fjords and sprinkled with light showers. You’ll want to wander around in a light jacket, not a swimsuit. Reykjavík in Iceland lets you chase waterfalls, roam black sand beaches, and relax in geothermal pools. It’s a different kind of summer glow—one that doesn’t come from UV rays.
The Forest is Your Friend
This one’s for the Shade lovers. Forest escapes provide natural air conditioning and tons of atmosphere. The Black Forest in Germany is all fairy-tale vibes and quiet trails, while the Pacific Northwest in the U.S. brings towering evergreens, misty lakes, and cool mountain towns like Leavenworth or Bend. Imagine hammocks under pine trees, forest picnics, and soft flannel instead of tank tops.
Do Summer in Reverse
Want to truly beat the heat? Flip the hemisphere. In places like Cape Town, it’s winter when it’s summer elsewhere. Think whale watching, scenic drives down the Garden Route, or a breezy hike up Table Mountain. Meanwhile, Queenstown in New Zealand offers snowy peaks and warm drinks by the fire. Nothing says “summer” like a wool sweater in July.
Chase the Fog, Not the Sun
San Francisco has made fog famous—and for good reason. July can be brisk, with temperatures dipping into the hoodie zone. Take in Alcatraz views wrapped in mist or walk along Fisherman’s Wharf with chowder in hand. Bonus: no sticky clothes, no sunburn, and all the West Coast charm.
Choose Museums Over Mountains
Hot weather and culture can clash, but not in cities like Vienna and Prague. Both offer grand museums, cool interiors, and enough history to keep you busy (and shaded). When you’re ready for a break, duck into a café for some iced coffee and people-watching. It’s a refined kind of summer fun—and a lifesaver for anyone who sweats just thinking about the outdoors.
Make It a Night Owl Vacation
If daylight feels like an enemy, embrace the dark. Madrid thrives after 9 p.m. with tapas bars, open-air concerts, and plazas packed with life. Bangkok also shines at night with vibrant markets, food stalls, and rooftop views. Travel doesn’t need to follow a 9-to-5 schedule. The floor is yours to make your own clock.
Cooler Destinations, Smarter Travel
Not everyone dreams of poolside tanning or blazing sunshine. Some travellers prefer their summer with a side of fog, forest trails, or crisp alpine mornings. That’s where planning smart makes all the difference. With travel platforms like QVI Vacay, it’s easier to skip the swelter and find stays that match your cooler mood—from misty coasts to shaded retreats. You’ll also unlock handy perks like member-exclusive deals and redeemable nights that help keep your getaway stress-free and budget-friendly.
Send your sign-up request to help@myqvi.com or reach us at +60386053383 to get started with QVI Vacay.
