LONG HAUL DOESN'T HAVE TO MEAN WINTER

There’s a common assumption that long-haul travel is really only a winter thing — and that if you’re thinking about travelling between April and August, your options narrow quickly to Europe.In reality, that isn’t quite true.There are several long-haul destinations that are well suited to travel during the northern summer months, and in many cases the conditions at this time of year are among the best you’ll find. Here are a few that work particularly well.

ZANZIBAR (June–October)

This is Zanzibar at its most reliable, with dry weather, plenty of sunshine and warm seas. It works well for travellers looking for a beach-focused holiday, with the option to add a bit of history and culture through Stone Town or a short inland excursion.

INDONESIA (May–October)

Much of Indonesia is in its dry season at this time of year, making it a very comfortable time to travel. Bali, Lombok and the islands beyond all work well, and summer is ideal for combining beaches with temples, landscapes and gentle exploration rather than focusing on a single resort.

KOH SAMUI (June–August)

Thailand is often dismissed for summer travel, but Koh Samui is a notable exception. While much of the Thailand experiences heavier rainfall, Samui often enjoys more settled conditions at this time of year. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for an island stay with a wide choice of accommodation, dining and excursions, and it pairs well with time in Bangkok or elsewhere in Thailand.

SOUTHERN AFRICA (May–September)

This is one of the best times of year for safari, with dry conditions and excellent wildlife viewing. It’s also a very good season to combine a safari with Cape Town and the Winelands, where temperatures are mild and ideal for exploring.

PERU (May–September)

Summer in the UK coincides with clearer, drier conditions in the Andes, making this an excellent time for exploring the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. It’s particularly well suited to travellers who enjoy a more active, experience-led trip, with history and dramatic landscapes.

I mention all this because I often speak to people who don’t start thinking seriously about summer travel until relatively late - and assume that long haul is already off the table.In reality, with the right destination and a bit of planning, summer can be an excellent time to travel further afield.If you’re considering travelling between April and August and aren’t sure what would work best, I’m always happy to talk it through. Get in touch to arrange a call.