Summer is the perfect time to get away and explore new places, but not all destinations are created equal. While some places offer endless adventures and experiences, others can turn your dream vacation into a nightmare. As we head into the summer of 2023, it’s essential to know which places to avoid to ensure your trip is unforgettable for all the right reasons.
From overcrowded beaches to cities plagued by crime, there are a variety of factors that can make a destination unappealing. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the places you may want to skip this summer and why. So pack your bags and get ready to discover which destinations should be crossed off your list for the ultimate summer vacation.
ViDI Studio/ShutterstockVenice, Italy
Venice, the “City of Canals,” is one of Italy’s most beautiful and iconic destinations, known for its picturesque waterways, romantic gondola rides, and historic architecture. However, while the summer months may seem like the ideal time to visit, they can also be the worst. The combination of hot temperatures, crowds of tourists, and high prices can make for a less-than-ideal experience.
During the summer months, Venice can become incredibly crowded, with tourists flocking from all over the world to take in its beauty. This can make it difficult to navigate the city’s narrow streets and canals, and queues for popular attractions can be long and frustrating. The heat can also be oppressive, with temperatures frequently soaring into the mid to high 80s, even the 90s in late summer. This can make it challenging to enjoy outdoor activities or to relax and enjoy the city’s many outdoor cafes and restaurants. Additionally, accommodation prices tend to skyrocket during peak season, meaning that travelers may find themselves paying exorbitant prices for hotels and other amenities. As a result, it may be best to avoid Venice during the summer months and instead plan your visit for the shoulder season when temperatures are milder, crowds are smaller, and prices are more reasonable.
RAW-films/ShutterstockAmalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast in Southern Italy is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking destinations in the world. With its dramatic coastline, colorful fishing villages, and crystal-clear waters, it’s no surprise that it’s a popular summer vacation spot. However, while it may be tempting to visit during peak season, there are several reasons why you may want to avoid the Amalfi Coast during the summer months.
One of the most significant drawbacks of visiting the Amalfi Coast in the summer is the crowds. The region is a hugely popular tourist destination, and during the summer months, it can become incredibly busy. Additionally, accommodation prices tend to rise drastically during peak season, causing you to pay extremely high prices for hotels and other amenities. Like Venice, the Amalfi coast can also get extremely hot in the summer, making it challenging to enjoy outdoor activities or to relax. As a result, it may be best to plan your visit for the shoulder season when temperatures are milder, crowds are smaller, and prices are more reasonable.
posztos/ShutterstockFrance’s Cliffs and Coastline
France’s beautiful coastline is one of its biggest draws, attracting millions of tourists every year. However, with the effects of climate change exacerbating coastal erosion, coupled with over-tourism, many areas of the coastline are suffering. So, it’s a good idea to avoid them this summer. For instance, Étretat, Normandy, has seen a significant increase in tourist numbers, with its wastewater treatment facility struggling to cope with the influx. The area’s natural beauty is also at risk from landslides due to the heavy foot traffic.
The problem of over-tourism isn’t limited to Étretat, either. The Calanques National Park in Marseille has introduced a reservation system for its beaches, limiting visitors to 400 a day due to overcrowding. While tourism is undoubtedly essential for France’s economy, it’s essential to find a balance that doesn’t harm the environment and local communities.
hayleycaslin/ShutterstockLake Tahoe, California
Lake Tahoe in California is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery. However, the region’s popularity has caused a significant increase in visitors, leading to overcrowding and traffic congestion. The pollution caused by heavy traffic on the roads is also affecting the lake’s clarity, posing a threat to its natural beauty. Fine sediment pollution, as a result of urban landscape runoff, is being transported into the lake, clouding its cobalt-blue waters.
The Tahoe Neighborhood Group and other local organizations are calling for a balance to be found between promoting tourism and preserving the environment. North Lake Tahoe is working towards finding creative solutions to reduce traffic and encourage alternative modes of transportation, such as biking and free shuttle programs. Visitors are also being educated on how to respect the area’s natural beauty and reduce their impact on the environment. While Lake Tahoe may be a beautiful destination, it’s essential to be mindful of the impact of tourism and plan your visit accordingly to avoid adding to the region’s problems.
NKneidlphoto/ShutterstockNew Smyrna Beach, Florida
New Smyrna Beach in Florida may seem like the perfect summer destination with its miles of sandy beaches and warm weather. However, it’s also known as the “shark bite capital of the world,” with more reported shark attacks than any other beach in the world. While shark attacks are rare, the high number of incidents in this area has caused concern for both locals and visitors alike. Swimmers and surfers are advised to take precautions, such as swimming near lifeguard stations and avoiding swimming during dawn and dusk, when sharks are most active.
Additionally, New Smyrna Beach can be overcrowded during the summer months, with long lines for parking and popular attractions. The influx of visitors can make it challenging to find a peaceful spot to relax on the beach or explore the town without feeling crowded. If you’re looking for a more tranquil beach vacation, it may be best to consider other destinations along Florida’s coastline or visit New Smyrna Beach during the off-season when crowds are fewer, and the risk of shark attacks is lower.
Sky Cinema/ShutterstockAcapulco, Mexico
While Acapulco, Mexico, may have once been a popular vacation destination, it has since gained a reputation for being one of the most dangerous cities in Mexico. The city has seen an increase in violent crime and drug-related activity in recent years, making it a risky destination for travelers. Many of the city’s tourist areas have been affected by the violence, including beaches, hotels, and nightclubs. Tourists have reported various crimes making it an unwise choice for a summer vacation.
The high crime rate in Acapulco has led the United States government to issue travel warnings to its citizens, advising them to reconsider any travel plans to the area. While the city’s local government has taken steps to improve safety, the ongoing violence and organized crime activity make it difficult to fully control the situation. If you’re looking for a safer summer vacation destination, it’s best to choose another location in Mexico or consider other countries altogether.
alysta/ShutterstockCornwall, England
Cornwall, England, is a beautiful destination, but visitors should be aware of the high levels of tourism, which can lead to overcrowding and traffic issues. The infrastructure in the region is not equipped to handle the number of visitors during peak season. The narrow roads and limited parking at popular sites create gridlock and litter, making life unpleasant for locals. The housing crisis, exacerbated by short-term vacation rentals driving up the cost of living, has forced even rental companies to cap the number of properties available in the county.
Cornwall’s popularity as a vacation destination is a double-edged sword. While tourism is vital to the region’s economy, it is also responsible for damaging the very things that make it attractive. The head of the tourism authority has even gone as far as asking visitors to stay away from Cornwall’s beaches during peak season. Visitors should be mindful of the impact they have on the environment and respect the locals who call Cornwall home. If you do decide to visit, try to avoid the busiest times of the year and be sure to use public transportation or walk instead of driving if possible.
Roger Driscoll/ShutterstockDeath Valley, California
While Death Valley, California, may be a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers, it’s important to avoid it during the summer months due to the extreme heat. The valley is known for having some of the hottest temperatures on earth, with record highs reaching up to 134 degrees Fahrenheit. In the summer months, temperatures can easily reach over 120 degrees, making it an incredibly uncomfortable and dangerous destination for tourists. Hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities can be life-threatening under such extreme conditions.
Even for experienced hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, it’s essential to take extreme caution when visiting Death Valley during the summer. Heat exhaustion and dehydration are common concerns, and visitors are advised to bring plenty of water, wear protective clothing, and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day. For a safer and more enjoyable summer vacation, it’s best to choose a cooler destination and save Death Valley for a different time of year.
Doug Meek/ShutterstockMaui, Hawaii
Maui, Hawaii, is a popular destination for tourists, but the increasing numbers of visitors have put a strain on the island’s resources, particularly water. The disparity in water distribution is leading to conflicts between the hospitality industry and household users, as many resorts in South and Central Maui have not been subject to the same water restrictions as residents. This has caused frustration among Native Hawaiians, who are bearing the burden of limiting water use to accommodate tourism. Some have even urged travelers to avoid coming to the islands out of respect for its inhabitants.
But the cost of tourism on the island goes beyond just water distribution. The increasing number of short-term rentals, primarily owned by non-residents, is driving up the cost of living and leading to more people experiencing homelessness, particularly among Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders. The impact of tourism on the island’s environment and culture has also been a cause of concern. It is important to consider the impact of our choices as tourists and the long-term effects on the local community.
Marisa Estivill/ShutterstockThe Bahamas
The Bahamas is a popular winter destination due to its warm climate, clear waters, and beautiful beaches. However, during the summer, the high humidity levels and increased rainfall make it a less-than-ideal destination. The rainy season in the Bahamas typically starts in May and runs through November, with the peak hurricane season running from August through October. Not only does this lead to an increase in mosquitoes and other pests, but it also increases the risk of hurricanes, which can disrupt travel plans and pose a danger to visitors.
While some visitors may find lower prices and fewer crowds in the summer, it’s important to be aware of the potential downsides. If you do choose to visit the Bahamas during the summer, be sure to pack accordingly with lightweight and breathable clothing, insect repellent, and rain gear. Additionally, make sure to monitor weather conditions and follow any safety guidelines issued by local authorities in the event of a hurricane.
dturka/ShutterstockDubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai’s extreme temperatures during the summer months can make it an uncomfortable and even dangerous place to visit. The heat can be so intense that spending any amount of time outdoors can become unbearable, leading to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and even heatstroke. Additionally, the high humidity levels can exacerbate the discomfort, making it feel even hotter than the actual temperature.
Even the locals know to avoid being outside during the day. If you do decide to visit Dubai during the summer, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to stay cool and hydrated, such as staying indoors during the hottest part of the day and drinking plenty of water. But for those who are looking for a more enjoyable vacation experience, it might be best to visit during the cooler months when the weather is more tolerable.
Umar Shariff Photography/GettyParis, France
Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world and that is particularly true in the summer months. Unfortunately, this means that the city can be overcrowded and overwhelming for travelers seeking a relaxing vacation. The city’s most famous attractions, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre Dame Cathedral, are often flooded with tourists during the summer. This can lead to long lines, limited access, and less-than-optimal experiences. The summer weather can also be uncomfortable, with heatwaves and occasional thunderstorms making the city less enjoyable.
However, there are still some enjoyable activities to do in Paris during the summer months, such as strolling through the city’s parks or along the Seine River. It’s also an excellent opportunity to indulge in some of the city’s famous ice creams and enjoy the warm weather in outdoor cafes. Despite this, travelers should be prepared for the crowds and plan accordingly, including booking tickets for attractions in advance and visiting during off-peak hours to make the most of their visit to Paris.
bancika/ShutterstockNew York City
New York City is a bustling metropolis and a hub of culture and activity. It’s no surprise that many people choose to visit the city during the summer months. After all, there are plenty of outdoor events, concerts, and festivals to enjoy. However, it’s worth considering that the summer is also the peak tourist season in New York, meaning that the streets and popular attractions can be incredibly crowded. The heat and humidity can make the situation even more uncomfortable, especially for those unaccustomed to urban summers.
Despite the crowds and heat, New York City remains an exciting and dynamic destination during the summer. Visitors can take advantage of the city’s many outdoor spaces, including Central Park, the High Line, and numerous beaches and parks. There are also plenty of indoor attractions to enjoy, such as world-class museums, theaters, and restaurants. If you do choose to visit during the summer, be sure to plan ahead, stay hydrated, and try to avoid peak times and areas to make the most of your trip.
