We’ve spent the last several weeks talking about the best luxury spots in Europe for you 2026 Summer holiday, and while they’re all worth visiting, today I want to highlight some of the best luxury destinations outside of Europe to give you some variety. I want to show you that some of the most extraordinary escapes on earth lie far beyond the Mediterranean, and are worth taking a closer look at. So, if you’re dreaming bigger this year, here are seven more spectacular destinations for you to consider:
1. Bali, Indonesia: A Soulful Blend of Culture, Wellness & Natural Beauty
Bali is a destination that feels almost enchanted. A place with misty jungles, ancient temples, and golden beaches all at your disposal. Summer in Bali (May–September) is the dry season, making it ideal for outdoor adventures or slow, leisurely relaxation. And not to mention, they have some of the best spa retreats in the world!
Why luxury travelers love it:
-Private pool villas tucked into the jungle or perched above the ocean
-World-class wellness and spa experiences (sound healing, yoga, Ayurveda)
-Award-winning restaurants in Ubud and Seminyak
-Waterfalls, volcano hikes, and serene rice terraces
Bali offers the perfect blend of cultural depth and serene luxury, and is ideal for travelers who want both comfort and connection.
2. Vancouver & Vancouver Island, Canada: Coastal Wonders and Adventure
Mild, sunny, and wonderfully refreshing, Vancouver is one of North America’s best summer escapes. With its mix of mountains, ocean, and cosmopolitan flair, it appeals to travelers who love nature but don’t want to sacrifice comfort.
Why it’s a standout summer destination:
-Cool, comfortable summer temperatures (perfect for escaping heat elsewhere)
-Easy access to luxury waterfront hotels and fine dining
-Whale watching, sailing, hiking, and biking along the seawall
-Quick ferry or seaplane to Vancouver Island and Victoria
Vancouver feels both vibrant and soothing, which is a rare combination for a big city! Perfect for travelers who enjoy nature, but also love the excitement and entertainment you can only find in the city!
3. Patagonia (Argentina & Chile): A Remote Escape for Nature Lovers
Patagonia is for travelers who want to feel like they’ve reached the edge of the world. While winter falls between June and August, Northern Patagonia still offers beautiful, crisp days and fewer visitors (which is a big part of the charm!)
What makes it so alluring:
-Remote, ultra-exclusive eco-lodges surrounded by untouched landscapes
-Snow-dusted mountains, fjords, pristine lakes, and glaciers
-Opportunities for stargazing, horseback riding, and scenic expeditions
-Total serenity- no crowds, no noise, just nature
For adventurous luxury travelers, Patagonia is a soul-stirring place to explore during the Northern Hemisphere summer.
4. Cape Town & South Africa’s Winelands: A Cosmopolitan Winter Sun Retreat
South Africa enjoys its cooler, dry season during Northern Hemisphere summer, which means perfect sightseeing weather, fewer crowds, and exceptional value.
Highlights include:
-Cape Town’s stunning mix of coastline, Table Mountain, and fine dining
-The world-renowned wine estates of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek
-Whale watching along the coast
-Boutique hotels with dramatic scenery and five-star service
Many travelers pair Cape Town with a luxury safari to add an additional layer of adventure and incredible wildlife!
5. The Maldives: The World’s Ideal Luxury Escape
If you’re craving shimmering turquoise water, quiet beaches, and the feeling of “getting away from it all,” the Maldives is unmatched. Each resort sits on its own private island, creating an effortless sense of exclusivity, and a variety of unique experiences.
Expect nothing less than:
-Iconic overwater villas
-Personalized service and private butlers
-Soft white-sand beaches and crystal-clear lagoons
-Amazing snorkeling and diving right from your villa
The Maldives is perfect for honeymoons, anniversary trips, or simply unwinding in paradise. Whether you want to spent your whole time relaxing on beaches and in spas, or prefer engaging in watersports- this is the ideal spot for your next trip!
6. Alaska, USA: Wild, Majestic, Unique
Alaska is one of the most spectacular warm-weather destinations on earth! And June through August, when the days stretch long and the landscapes are bursting with life, is the best time to go!
Travelers love Alaska for:
-Expedition-style small-ship cruises through fjords and glaciers
-Wildlife encounters (whales, bears, eagles, and more!)
-Fly-in lodges offering gourmet dining and unmatched wilderness access
-Scenic train journeys and helicopter excursions
Alaska offers a rugged kind of luxury that’s immersive and unforgettable. I’ve been a lot of places, but this is still one of my favorite Summer destinations for its unique charm.
7. Tanzania & Zanzibar: The Ultimate Safari + Beach Combination
Few destinations offer the contrast and beauty of Tanzania. Summer (June–September) is arguably the best season for safari, especially in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. A trip like this is best paired with the turquoise waters of Zanzibar, which is easy to get to by ferry or plane.
Safari + beach highlights:
-Witness the world-famous Great Migration
-Stay in luxury tented camps with gourmet meals and private game drives
-End your trip in Zanzibar with white-sand beaches and boutique resorts
-Explore Stone Town’s culture, spice farms, and sunset dhow cruises
It’s a journey that blends adventure, wildlife, and coastal relaxation. But be sure to book early, because the best safaris and resorts fill up quickly during the summer months!
Final Thoughts: Your Next Summer Escape Awaits
Traveling beyond Europe opens the door to a world of luxurious, culturally rich, wildly diverse destinations from the relaxing to the exotic. Whether you want complete serenity or full-blown adventure, these seven destinations deliver summer magic in more ways than you thought possible.
Now that you have all the facts, it’s time to make some decisions. Where do you plan to go in Summer 2026? Where ever you decide, I can help you get there!
Let’s Work Together!
I would love to meet you and get to know all about your dream vacation! So, if you’re ready, schedule your first travel consultation with me now! Not quite ready to start planning yet? Get inspired HERE, and check out my Planning Process to see how I work.
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