Things you buy through our links may earn Vox Media a commission. A few weeks ago, I realized I had basically forgotten to make summer vacation plans. Finagling a real trip seemed like a lot of effort, not to mention expensive. I was happy to opt out. Then, some of my friends went to Spain. Another sent me a plane selfie en route to Ireland with her toddler and her mom. My neighbors went biking in the Dolomites. My feeds were cluttered with the usual photos of pasta and cliffside villas on the Amalfi coast.
But I would love a low-key, refreshing getaway that feels luxurious without costing it. Is such a thing even possible at this point?
I asked some travel-industry experts what they recommend. Do you want to come back rested and relaxed, or are you looking to drink as many margaritas with as many friends as possible?
Do you want to sightsee or just flop? Instead, imagine what you want to do rather than a specific destination.
Then you can focus on getting the experience you want without shelling out for top-dollar locations that may not deliver. Another tip for this time of year: Think of places where people normally go in the winter, says Henley Vazquez, the CEO of Fora , a travel-advisory service. My personal recommendation: ski towns during the summer.
