Scouted Summer Vacations
It’s official, summertime is finally right around the corner. Those long, dark winter days are almost behind us. That means it’s time to start making your summer plans, including booking the perfect extended getaway. Want something different this year? We asked Northwest Arkansas’ own travel guru, Michele MacDonald of THE CORE TRAVELER, to give us the inside scoop on this summer’s hottest destinations. She let us in on some fabulous inside secrets and trending destinations that are perfect for family vacations, trips to celebrate graduations or a unique honeymoon (or second honeymoon)…
A beautiful view of Arenal, the most active volcano in Costa Rica, from the Presidential villa at The Springs Resort. Photo courtesy of THE CORE TRAVELER.
Costa Rica
Looking for two different experiences in one vacation? Michele loves to send her clients on a balanced trip to Costa Rica that includes a private eco-adventure in the rainforest with “la pura vida” beach time, too. First stop: Arenal—the smallest and most active volcano in Costa Rica. Known for its lush rainforests, Arenal is rich in natural attractions; experience thermo-mineral hot springs, waterfall hikes, horseback riding, birdwatching, biking, and zip lining.
After that portion of the trip, Michele sets her clients up in Manuel Antonio, a small oceanside village famous for its national park. This tiny yet bustling town is located off Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast just a stone’s throw away from Quepos, which is famous for sport fishing. The region is a treasure for biodiversity, attracting nature buffs, eco-travelers and adventure-seekers alike. It’s also perfect for soaking up white sand, bright sun and crystal-clear water.
Rainforest tree hikes abound in the lush rainforests of Costa Rica. Photo courtesy of THE CORE TRAVELER.
Spain
For travelers looking for a combination of culture, museums and shopping or a truly unique European vacation, Michele loves Spain. Families particularly enjoy private tours of the walls of Alcàzar in Seville, Europe’s oldest royal residence still in use. Alcàzar preserves a thousand years of history and includes The Gothic Castle, the Mudejar Palace, the House of Trade and the Upper Royal Room. Private tours include long walks through the gardens and access to the secret underground baths that lie beneath the castle. For those who aren’t interested in history, Spain is still perfect. She loves to treat her clients to a private tapas tour of the region. To finish the experience, Michele always likes to includes seats at an authentic Flamenco show.
The Moorish Alcàzar Palace in Seville City, Spain is a breathtaking architectural feat that dates back to the 14th century. Photo courtesy of the CORE TRAVELER’s on-site specialists.
The ancient city of Split blends tradition with modernity right on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea. Photo courtesy of the Core Traveler’s on-site specialists.
Croatia
While Croatia remains a below-the-radar destination for many U.S. travelers, this eastern European gem is attracting more and more in-the-know travelers. Home to the castles and landscapes that provided the setting for HBO’s hit series Game of Thrones, Croatia is a popular spot for families and fans alike. One of the secret places in Croatia is a centrally located city called “Split.” Here you can experience a different time period. Split is a pedestrian friendly beach town with rich history and plenty of watersports for active travelers.
Baha Mar
For those who want a classic beach vacation this summer, there’s BAHA MAR. This brand-new luxury resort destination in the Bahamas took 10 years to complete, but the timing is perfect as other Caribbean destinations still recover from a tough hurricane season. Baha Mar’s pristine beaches and state-of-the-art resorts offer a little something for everyone: golf as far as the eye can see, the largest casino in the Caribbean, world-class dining, family entertainment and plenty of shopping.
The stunning island of Mali Losinj is a hidden gem of the northern Adriatic with Mediterranean flair surrounded by crystal-clear harbors. Photo courtesy of the Core Traveler’s on-site specialists.
Sweeping balconies and oceanfront views abound in the pristine Rosewood Baha Mar. Photo courtesy of Rosewood Hotels.
When you’re ready to book any of the above trips, CONTACT MICHELE (479.366.8210) for bespoke travel arrangements. She can get you special perks like room upgrades and provide the expertise to make your vacation really feel like one!
As seen on The Scout Guide NWA.