Massachusetts Has One of the Best Late-Summer Vacations
Summer just started, but if you want to take a summer vacation, you’re a little past the mark. The good news is that you still have time to plan a late-summer vacation. More good news is that Massachusetts has one of the best late-summer vacations in the U.S., according to some travel experts.
Massachusetts Has One of the Best Late-Summer Vacations
Our area has some great places to enjoy the summer, so it makes sense that we would also have one of the best late-summer vacations. Now, the experts at BeMyTravelMuse.com have put together a feature on some of the best places to travel in America in August, just as summer is starting to wind down. “Now is the optimal time to start your August vacation planning,” they note, which is very true. “That month’s heat might have you running to the beach or perhaps to the mountains to cool off.”
Their No. 1 pick for the best place in the entire country for a late-summer vacation is Big Island, Hawai’i. What makes it so great? Well, as they note, Big Island is “the largest, most diverse, and most adventure-filled spot in the state” with a lot of things to do. You can go snorkeling, hang out at the beach or more. “The balmy August temperatures also make it a great time to enjoy an evening stroll or stargaze on the Kīlauea Iki Trail; as there’s very little rain during this time of year, you’re likely to catch an epic star-filled night,” they note. I like it. No. 2 on the list is also not in the continental U.S.: Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska. This spot, they note, is called one of the most beautiful places in the entire state. While you’re there, check out the beautiful and breath-taking glaciers.
So, which Massachusetts spot is one of the best for a late-summer vacay? According to them, it’s The Berkshires. “This green, hilly area of Massachusetts is best known for its stellar hiking and water sports,” they boast. “Beyond that, there are also cultural events all summer, such as the Boston Symphony Orchestra at Tanglewood and dance shows at Jacob’s Pillow.” They note that this area is also where you’ll find the Norman Rockwell Museum and the Clark Art Institute. I agree that it’s a lovely spot, so I’m happy to see it getting some attention. Enjoy the summer while it lasts. Find some tips to maximize your summer vacation below.
Tips to Maximize Your Vacation
1. Save Money
One great way to maximize your vacation is simply to save money. You’ll feel so much better on vacation knowing that you’re saving cash by doing things the right way. One major way to save money is to travel during an off season. Every vacation destination has its own peak time. So, look at the cheapest time to visit your destination, and go then. Find more tips on saving money on vacation, too.
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2. Don't Plan Every Minute of Your Vacation
Sure, you want to do some planning so that you don’t miss the big tourist stops in your destination. But, don’t book every blasted minute. Maximize your vacay by saving some time to be spontaneous. Take a day to just figure out what to do when you’re there. Maybe some locals will recommend a secret spot for you to visit during your “day off.”
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3. Do Plan Ahead, Though
While you don’t want to overbook your trip so that you’re always running from spot to spot, you do want to plan a bit. It’s not a good idea to do zero planning and just feel things out when you get there. Plan some big activities ahead of time so that you aren’t scrambling last-minute.
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4. Plan Regular Mini-Vacations
If you only have one big vacation every year, you might feel under a lot of pressure to make it the most amazing experience ever. So, take away that stress. Plan mini-vacations throughout the year, so you aren’t under as much pressure to make your big trip the best thing that’s ever happened to you and your family. For example, in the fall, if you live in an area with beautiful colors, make an annual fall color tour trip and just drive around the state.
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5. Stay an Extra Day
If time and money allows, adding just one day to your vacation can open up a world of possibilities. Many people plan too short a trip, not realizing just how much they’ll want to do in their destination. So, add an extra day. You’ll be glad you did at the end of your stay.
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6. Take Time to Sleep
Sure, you’re on vacation. You want to soak up every minute of your trip. But, if you’re up late every night partying in the clubs and then up early to enjoy the sunrise, pretty soon, you’ll be too tired to enjoy your vacation. So, take time to get some sleep and feel rested.
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7. Let the Small Stuff Go
They say, “Don’t sweat the small stuff.” That’s certainly true on vacation. Nothing is going to go totally as planned. So, expect the unexpected, and roll with it.
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8. Plan Some Recoup Time
When you get back from your vacation, don’t plan to start work the very next day. Take an extra day or two off after your vacation to recuperate, so that you hit the ground running when you’re back at work. The extra time at home will also give you a chance to savor your vacation.
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9. Pick an Experience
People often find experiencing more rewarding that physical things. So, make sure to plan an experience with your trip. Maybe there’s a huge concert you want to see on vacation. Perhaps it’s a sporting event. Whatever it is, plan an awesome experience.
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10. Learn for Next Time
Finally, when you’re home from your trip, decompress and look back on your vacation. What went wrong? What went right? Take notes and learn from your vacation, so you’ll know what to do better next time.
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