Americans are gearing up to travel for the summer and the destinations are preparing for their arrival. Americans’ interest to take a vacation is rising as travelers are looking forward to much-needed summer trips.
Hotels and restaurants are gearing up for travelers as competition grows within the industry to rehire talent, and they’re opening to bigger crowds than what they had months ago. There’s a lot of anticipation and a lot of predictions that public venues will look more normal this summer than last, as travelers start going on vacation again.
Planning for the right trip means something different these days though. We’re all concerned about vaccinations, mask requirements, the ability to socially distance, and whether the venues are properly cleaning and sterilizing.
Of course, the venues are working on making your experience as safe as possible, even while you enjoy their offerings and service. If you’re not sure whether a travel destination is doing a good job at it, you should call them and ask what their measures include.
If you haven’t made your summer vacation plans yet, here are a few locations where they have great food and lodging options, plus they’re practicing safety and taking precautions.
Cancun, Mexico: Every year, Cancun is a magnet for people who want to get away from everyday life. The white sandy beaches, Mayan culture, and exotic nature let travelers experience enriching beauty. The Le Blanc Spa Resort in Cancun boasts breathtaking views of the lagoon, luxury rooms, and wonderful service.
Orlando, Florida: Every summer, people flock to the House of Mouse and Universal Studios for their vacation time. Walt Disney World is home to hotels like the Polynesian, the Contemporary and the Grand Floridian, and Universal Studios has the Hard Rock Hotel and Portofino Bay. Also, the food in Orlando — around town or in the parks — makes a trip more memorable. And just outside of WDW and Universal is International Drive, an area that boasts over 100 restaurants that serve anything from juicy meat at Texas de Brazil to world-renowned seafood at The Oceanaire Seafood Room.
Key West, Florida: This place is not a secret for family vacationers. It has quite the allure for anyone who wants to visit the southernmost part of the United States, and the 400+ restaurants are favorites among the tourists. Azur, rated 4.5 stars with 1600 reviews on Open Table, serves delicious Mediterranean dishes. Grand Café, a home setting, provides seafood that is the taste of Key West.
Chicago, Illinois: Head up to the Windy City for some of the best shopping in the Midwest, great museums, Shedd Aquarium, the Field Museum, and our blog manager’s favorite, the American Writers Museum. There are plenty of outstanding restaurants, although you need to spurge with a Chicago-style hot dog or two, and maybe catch a baseball game one evening.
Dominican Republic This place is rich with breathtaking scenery and has the recipe for a great getaway during the summer. (I know because I used to live there.) With restaurants like Don Pepe Restaurant in Santo Domingo, you sure will have great food and a fun time. The cuisine is local, has vegetarian options, and people love the décor. With a 4.5-star rating on TripAdvisor, the restaurant can surely please. For a place to stay, check out (or in) with Casas Del XVI is a hotel that is located in the heart of the Dominican Republic. A showcase of Dominican culture, this luxury hotel is a great start for a full experience of the country.
Puerto Rico: You can leave the continental United States without a passport since Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory. Visit La Taberna Lupulo or the Stuffed Avocado near Old San Juan. Take a walking tour of the city, and then relax with a sunset cruise that night. There are also plenty of music venues around Puerto Rico, and depending on the social distancing requirements there, you may be able to catch a concert or two.
Are you going on vacation this summer? Where are you heading? What’s your dream destination? Share your plans with us on our Facebook page, or on our Twitter stream. You can also find us on our Instagram page at @TravelproIntl.
