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The Latest Travel News from the WorldEscape Community

Try something different this summer at a freshwater beach

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If your idea of heaven in the summer months is to sit on a beach relaxing in the sunshine, why not try one of America’s great freshwater beaches for a change? The Great Lakes area runs from Minnesota to New York and is the largest area of fresh water in the world.

A chilled out beach

Many of the beaches along the Great Lakes are situated in small towns that don’t attract the masses you’ll find at the major coastal resorts. For example, North Beach in Racine, Wisconsin, is half a mile long and contains 50 acres of sand for you to enjoy. There’s also Empire Beach in Michigan, which is within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. You’ll find dunes that can be up to 400 feet tall along this 35-mile stretch of beach.

Beach in the city

If you want a vacation site that offers more in terms of retail and entertainment venues, the Great Lakes area is also renowned for its urban beaches. Those who book accommodation in Chicago, Buffalo, and Cleveland for the summer will be able to get a bit of beach action while in the city. Oak Street Beach in Chicago, for example, is set directly under the city’s skyline.

Whether you’re looking for a sleepy setting, some water sports activities, or a city location, the Great Lakes beaches offer something for everyone.

Holiday like an Italian when you choose to spend time in Calabria, Italy

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If you plan to tour Europe to enjoy a variety of different travel experiences, choose your destination with an eye toward getting the most bang for your buck; a suitable place is Calabria in Italy. It is located far to the southwest in the “toe” of Italy’s boot and is bounded by the crystal blue waters of both the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas.

Calabria is a popular holiday destination with the Italians, and you will discover why when you choose to spend time touring the area. Relax on the warm sandy beaches of this Italian peninsula or explore the sections of rocky, mountainous coastline interspersed among the beaches. Calabria has almost 500 miles of coastline, and Capo Vaticano, in the province of Vibo Valentia, has been widely lauded as one of the 100 most beautiful beaches in the world.

For the adventurous traveler, sporting activities can be found any time of the year. Water sports abound, with windsurfing, kite-surfing, and scuba diving readily available. Calabria is also home to four different mountain ranges and has some of the highest peaks in Italy. There are many ski resorts dotted throughout, and even summer visitors will enjoy hiking, climbing, and horseback riding in the more mountainous inland region.

Visit the regional capital of Catanzaro or travel to Reggio Calabria to see the famous Riace Bronzes displayed in the National Museum. Immerse yourself in the wilderness of the Calabrian national parks or explore the region’s history by visiting the many ancient settlements, churches, castles, and monasteries located throughout the area. Cross the narrow Strait of Messina for a day-trip to the nearby island of Sicily. No matter what your holiday plans entail relaxation or action, history or culture Calabria is an ideal vacation destination.

Accommodations in Calabria range from luxury rentals to cheap sleeps. Therefore, regardless of your budget, you are sure to find a suitable place to stay during your fun, relaxing visit to this local holiday hotspot.