Hitting the road is awesome but stress sometimes gets in the way of the fun having. To help side step any aggravation, here's ten of the best (and stupidly simple) travel hacks.

Find the cheapest flight

It's sad but true that travel sites track your visits and hike up the price of your search, based on your user history. To bypass said sneakiness, enable private browsing during your search and clear your cache.

Be the First Bag off the Conveyer Belt

Time spent waiting for you bag could be time spent exploring an awesome new city, so skip the queue by marking your checked bag as Fragile. Not only will this guarantee your luggage will avoid be thrown around like a rag doll, it also ensures it will be the first off the plane.

Access Google maps without paying roaming charge

It's an old trick but a good one. To use Google Maps offline, without paying for international data roaming charges, simply type: “ok maps” in the search browser, with the area you're visiting already loaded. Doing this saves the region on your phone, allowing you to use it when you're data-less and out exploring.

Avoid spillage

There are few things more irksome than opening your toiletry bag after a flight, to find your potions and lotions outside of their bottles. To avoid this sticky situation, place plastic wrap over the top of your containers before sealing these, with their respective caps.

Triposo travel guide app

As recommended in this month's travel app review, Triposo is a totally free App that will revolutionise your travels. Created by former Google staffers, Triposo draws on six-million independent traveller profiles to create incredibly up to date location guides, that can be downloaded and used offline.

Toothpaste

If you don't want to lug a giant tube of tooth paste around on a quick trick, here's a handy tip for taking just what you need, and limiting you luggage weight. All you need do is take an old eyedropper and decant toothpaste into it. Sorted.

Keep pen in your pocket

Completing customs forms in the air is all well and good, until you ask the flight attendant for a pen, only to get the: “are you kidding me” look. Rather than endure the attitude or rummaging around in your overhead locker, keep a pen on your person. Doing this also guarantees you'll be the most popular person on your aisle.

Sunglass case for storing cables

When your Ray Ban case cracks, as they do without fail, rather than bin it - use this to store your cables and ear phones, on your travels. Doing so prevents a tangle in your hand luggage and the up to your armpit, Mary Poppins searching.

Space saving travel bottles

Gone are the days of ditching water bottles at airport security and space hogging empties, all thanks to the innovative Vapur water bottle. When it's empty, just roll it away and pop it in your pocket. Travelling with this invention also means you're doing a solid for the environment too - in the most hydrated of ways.

Back up your data in the cloud

In the ultimate travel emergency - when your passport, wallet and phone go bye bye, make sure you have a digital back up of your essentials. E-mailing a scan of you passport to yourself will make the trip to the embassy that much easier, as will hosting your travel insurance details online. Throw in a copy of your essential phone contacts and a horrid situation becomes a manageable one.

Beautiful sunsets. Colorful markets. Picturesque views. The joy and excitement of exploring a new place is inexplicable. However, getting there is a whole different story. From avoiding the dreaded middle seat on a flight and booking the right hotel to keeping clothes wrinkle-free and preparing toiletries. Traveling can be stressful, but it doesn’t always have to be. With the right tips and tricks, any travel situation can be made easy.



Here are ten Instagram-approved hacks that’ll help you travel like a boss:

• Organizing cords: We are all too familiar with the annoying situation when charging cords and earphones mysteriously turn into a tangled mess every time you place them in your bag. To keep them untangled and easily discoverable, store them in a spare glasses case or a travel size Q-tip container.
• Packing jewelry: If you’re packing a lot of jewelry, you can organize it in an ice cube tray and cover the tray with a sheet of plastic wrap to secure the contents. You can also carry delicate jewelry or big statement pieces in your luggage by placing them inside plastic organizers or school binders.
• Space-saving bags: Pack your clothes in ziplock bags to save space. It not only gives you more room to store other belongings but also protects your clothes from any accidental toiletry leakage.
• DIY toothbrush holder: Use an empty Tic Tac box as a DIY toothbrush holder to protect your toothbrush bristles from collecting makeup dust or fuzz. You can also use those tiny boxes to store bobby pins.
• Complimentary items: Always make sure to stock up free hotel soap and shampoo samples or trial-sized essential toiletries in case you run out of them. They’re small and lightweight which makes them super travel-friendly. You can also throw in a bar of scented soap inside a clean sock and put it next to your dirty laundry to keep the luggage smelling fresh.
• Snack hack: Use a crafts storage box to carry different snacks. Whether you want to store fresh fruit and protein bars or pretzels and donuts, the multipurpose box will do the trick.
• Sock it up: Wrap any fragile souvenirs or breakable items in fluffy socks to protect them from damage.
• Declutter luggage: There’s nothing more annoying than emptying your entire travel bag every time you want to find something. You can avoid this situation by using small resealable bags or drawstring bags to keep things organized.
• Charging without the wall plug: Forgot your adapter or want to charge more than one device at the same time? No worries. You can use the USB port on the back of the hotel television to charge your USB gadgets.
• Personalized in-flight entertainment: In case in-flight entertainment isn’t available, you can turn your own smartphone into a mini TV screen by placing the phone inside a snap-lock bag and hanging it using your tray table’s lock.

So the next time you take a trip or go for a vacay, use these clever Instagram hacks for a seamless travel experience.

Things You Need To Know Before Buying Travel Medical Insurance

Having proper medical and travel insurance is mandatory when holding a working holiday visa for New Zealand.

For many backpackers, this will be the first time having to deal with an insurer and compare offers. Your insurance can cover five main points:

• trip cancellation and interruption
• medical
• evacuation
• baggage (By the way, check out our predeparture checklist in case you forgot anything)
• flight insurance.

Most cover includes some but not all of those points. Here is the list of questions you may want to ask your insurer before purchasing your insurance.

1. WHERE IS THE INSURANCE COMPANY BASED?

A company based in New Zealand will be able to help you much more efficiently in an emergency than one based in your home country.

2. WHO IS THE UNDERWRITING COMPANY AND ARE THEY LICENSED?

This is an obvious one, New Zealand companies have to be registered and display the underwriter rating. If they don’t, something is fishy.

3. HOW DOES THE POLICY DEFINE A PRE-EXISTING CONDITION?

Pre-existing conditions are usually excluded from your cover or covered at extra costs. Check if that applies to you.

4. WILL A PRE-EXISTING CONDITION AFFECT YOUR COVERAGE?

If you do have a pre-existing condition listed in your policy wordings, check how much it will affect your cover.

5. ARE THERE ANY MEDICAL EXCLUSIONS THAT APPLY TO YOU?

Some companies may excuse certain procedures, situations or diseases from their coverage, check if any of the exclusions apply to you.

6. WILL YOU HAVE TO PAY A DEDUCTIBLE / EXCESS? IF SO, HOW MUCH?

An excess or deductible is the amount of money per claim that is to be paid by you. Most insurances have one. To help you understand this more, we have put together this guide to Medical and Travel Insurance for New Zealand.

7. WHAT IS THE INSURANCE COMPANY’S PROCEDURE FOR HANDLING CLAIMS?

This process will have to be made during a stressful situation; you are better off knowing the process beforehand.

8. DO YOU NEED APPROVAL FROM THE COMPANY BEFORE SEEKING MEDICAL TREATMENT?

Ask about the process of getting treatment, so in case of emergency you are prepared.

9. WILL THE INSURANCE COMPANY PAY THE HOSPITAL OR PHYSICIAN DIRECTLY?

In some cases you may have to pay the full amount yourself and then be reimbursed later by the company.

10. DOES THE COMPANY OFFERING THE POLICY PROVIDE A FREE, 24-HOUR HELPLINE THAT YOU CAN CALL IN AN EMERGENCY?

It sounds simple but some of them don’t.

11. DOES THE POLICY EXCLUDE ANY SPORTS OR ACTIVITIES YOU PLAN TO DO ON YOUR TRIP?

New Zealand offers plenty of awesome activities. The most extreme of them are not covered by your policy but the activity provider’s insurance.

12. WHAT IF YOU WANT TO STAY AWAY LONGER THAN ORIGINALLY PLANNED?

Can you extend your policy to cover me for the extra time you are in New Zealand, and how do you make the necessary arrangements?

13. ONCE YOU HAVE SIGNED A POLICY, CAN ANY FURTHER CHANGES BE MADE AT THE INSURANCE COMPANY’S DISCRETION WITHOUT ADVISING YOU?

For example, can the company revise the policy later and reduce your coverage.

14. WHEN DOES COVERAGE BEGIN AND END?

Some insurances will cover from the day you are leaving your home country, during the whole transit, and then in New Zealand. OrbitProtect covers you in transit, meaning you can take trips to those nearby Pacific islands and be covered!

Occupying the southern half of the Korean Peninsula is the country of South Korea. Completely distinct and independent from neighboring North Korea, South Korea is a thoroughly modern, engaging and thrilling destination for travelers. Major cities like Seoul offers the buzz of an urban metropolis along with fantastic nightlife and a chance to discover the latest technological marvel. However, South Korea is also home to scenic national parks and plenty of places where you can slow down and enjoy the atmosphere. From islands off the coast to the fearsome border zone in the middle of the Korean Peninsula, there are countless things to do, see and explore on your next trip to South Korea.

10. Suwon

The city of Suwon is the capital of Gyeonggi Province, and it is just 30 km (20 miles) outside of Seoul. It is easily accessible from Seoul by car or train, but it often skipped over by travelers. If you visit, you’ll be able to see the World Cup Stadium, affectionately called Big Bird, that hosted the quarter finals of the 2002 FIFA World Cup. If you’re not a soccer fan, head instead to the historic 18th century Hwaseong Fortress, where you can tour the architecture and even try your hand at archery on the premises.

9. Chuncheon

Surrounded by scenic lakes and towering mountains in Chuncheon, the capital city of Gangwon Province. Chuncheon is the location of a popular Korean soap opera called Winter Sonata, and a lot of visitors in the city come to see some of the most common filming locations. Other travelers come for the food, because Chuncheon is known as a foodie’s paradise. After touring major attractions like the Soyang Dam, Statue Park or Cheongpyeong-sa Temple, head to Dakgalbi Street. This street features the dish dakgalbi, a grilled chicken meal with spicy vegetables and rice. Dozens of restaurants on the street offer the same iconic dish, each offering slight variations on the recipe.

8. Busan

The second largest city in the entire country is Busan. It’s also a major port, and it is known for boasting beautiful beaches as well as hot springs and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Busan’s Gamcheon Cultural Village, known as the Santorini of Korea, is a stunningly colorful hillside community overlooking the water. While in Busan, you’ll also have the chance to visit several temples, the most popular of which is Beomeosa Temple. While the city boasts all the shopping and museums you might expect from an urban area of its size, some of the most popular attractions include Haeundae Beach, Taejongdae Park and the beautiful Nakdong River Estuary Migratory Bird Sanctuary.

7. Jeonju

At the peak of the Joseon Dynasty, Jeonju was its spiritual capital. Today, Jeonju is filled with temples and museums and is one of the best places to visit in South Korea. If you want to embrace the local culture and get to know its history, make your way to the Jeonju Hanok Village. There, you can see traditional homes from the early 20th century, make the traditional Hanji paper or sip the locally made soju. Another popular attraction in the city is the impressive Jeonju National Museum, home to a staggering collection of artifacts. While in Jeonju, try the famed Korean dish Bibimbap, which originally comes from this region.

6. Seoraksan National Park

If you want to go hiking, see the best known mountain range in South Korea or just get some epic photos, then make sure you visit the Seoraksan National Park. Within the park you’ll find pine forests, jagged and rocky mountain peaks, crystal clear streams and stunning lakes. Seoraksan National Park is also home to over 2,000 animal species. Start your visit at the National Park Visitor Centre, where you can pick up free maps in English and Korean. Then, enjoy the miles and miles of signposted hiking trails that crisscross the entire park.

5. Andong

At more than 2,000 years, Andong is sometimes referred to as the Capital City of Korean Spiritual Culture. Perhaps the main attraction in the city is the Andong Hahoe Folk Village, where local cultural heritage has been preserved and is shared with visitors. However, it is foodies that will most enjoy a visit to Andong. The city boasts all kinds of local specialties, starting with a famed chicken and noodle dish called jjimdak. Andong is also home to a special type of alcohol called soju, so have a sip before you depart the city.

4. Jeju Island

Off the southern coast of South Korea is Jeju Island, the country’s only Special Autonomous Province. Nicknamed Island of the Gods, Jeju is a subtropical destination known as one of the top honeymoon and vacation spots in South Korea. In addition to beautiful beaches, lava tubes and lush green scenery, Jeju boasts a long list of tourist attractions and amusement parks. You can get to know the local culture at the Seongeup Folklore Village, or you could visit Glass Castle, a theme park that revolves around glass sculptures. Perhaps the oddest and most controversial attraction in Jeju is Loveland, a theme park featuring romantic and adults-only attractions.

3. DMZ

The DMZ, or demilitarized zone, is the boundary area between North and South Korea. It is considered a cease-fire zone. While travelers can visit the DMZ, not all areas of the zone are safe. Only a small portion of the DMZ, known as the JSA or Joint Security Area, is open to the public. In the JSA, you can physically stand in North Korea, although you will be within a building that also houses South Korean soldiers. You can also visit a North Korean gift shop that sells stamps, wine and currency from North Korea. Be aware that the only way to visit the DMZ is on an authorized and guided tour.

2. Gyeongju

Gyeongju is the ancient capital of what was once the Silla Kingdom. This makes the city more than 2,000 years old. Gyeongju is an incredible destination that boasts a number of temples and cultural festivals. Start your trip at the Bulguksa Temple, a true masterpiece of Buddhist religion and art that dates back to the 8th century. Then, hike up from the temple to the Seokguram Grotto for even more Buddhist culture and artifacts. Don’t miss the Covered Market, a collection of vendors selling everything from Silla souvenirs to freshly made Korean delicacies.

1. Seoul

Seoul is by far the largest city in South Korea and a major destination in East Asia. If you’re spending any time in the country, there’s a good chance you’ll be visiting Seoul at some point. There is no end to the attractions in the city, but many visitors start with some of the many palaces located in Seoul. Top picks include the incredible Gyeongbok-gung and the 15th century Changdeok-gung. You’ll also find ancient temples and shrines, beautiful public parks, cutting-edge design, shopping malls and some of the best cuisine in all of Asia.

There's a lot to be said for tradition, and the tried and true summer vacation. Nantucket for the nth time? Nice. But even nicer is being spoiled for choice. How about front row seats to the great migration in Kenya? Or surfing (and feasting) on the coast of France? Or stargazing from a catamaran in French Polynesia? Here, 12 divinely exclusive getaways all around the globe—and the places that might still be able to squeeze you in.

Ladakh, India

What: Thanks to protection from the Himalayas, this under-the-radar region in the North has a different climate than the rest of the country—which makes it the only Indian region that's considered a summer destination.

Why: Ladakh first opened to tourists in the mid-70s, and it's rapidly becoming a sought-after destination for intrepid travelers. Quaint Buddhist villages, Tibetan cultural influence, and sweeping mountain landscapes are all part of the draw.

Best Time to Go: June, July, and August are perfect for trips and you can easily connect/fly up from Delhi.

French Polynesia

What: Vahine Island Resort, a hideaway in the same archipelago as Tahiti, sits on its own small island, in the middle of a clear lagoon.

Why: The nine units aren't as opulent as the ones at the big resorts, but they offer a fantasy vision of the Polynesian beach bungalow (grass walls, hammocks, endless sea views), meals by an ambitious French chef, and sublime seclusion. If five days as a castaway is enough, add a few nights sailing around the Society Islands on a crewed catamaran. Few pleasures compare with star-gazing at the South Pacific sky.

Best Time to Go: Mid-June through September it's sunny but not too hot; July is filled with festivals in Tahiti and the outer islands.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

What: For families, particularly fussy ones, Jackson Hole is an unrivaled summer playground. Look for moose and bison (as well as hot springs) on a guided hike around the Tetons; whitewater-raft down the Snake River and sleep in a teepee; ride a horse and picnic in a stunning meadow. Or, if you dare, go mountaineering with a private guide—maybe even former Olympic skier Hans Johnstone.

Why: Home base is Phillips Ridge, a five-bedroom showstopper set on 56 pristine acres just outside town (trout-stocked pond, bowling alley, and movie theater included). For a more old-fashioned take on home entertainment, the Jackson Hole Playhouse will drop by with costumes for the kids.

Best Time to Go: July, when the days are warm and sunny and the nights are crisp and clear.

Kenya

What: East Africa's annual migration, arguably the greatest wildlife spectacle on the planet, typically reaches its peak in August and September. That's when nearly 2 million wildebeest, zebra, and other animals thunder through Kenya's Masai Mara Game Reserve. It's also the time of a more tedious stampede: swarms of tourists jockeying for a view.

Why: Most camps are hours from the action, but the new Angama Mara lodge is just a 20-minute drive away—yet far from the hordes. Built on an escarpment, it also happens to be a spectacular destination in its own right, as well as an unusually modern arrival on the safari scene. From its floor-to-ceiling windows (and the infinity pool), you can take in the heart-stopping views of the plains where many scenes from Out of Africa were filmed.

Best Time to Go: July through September.

Muhu Island, Estonia

What: Padaste Manor, an elegant seaside inn on the small island of Muhu, is known only by the lucky few—at least for now. It is fast becoming a foodie pilgrimage site (much like Washington's Willows Inn, only with more herring on the menu), and Alexander, the manor's restaurant, is a rising star of the New Nordic cuisine movement. The sprawling grounds and medieval stone walls make it a dreamy place to soak up the Baltic summer. Follow some biking, horseback riding, or boating with a (non-negotiable) visit to the seawater hot tub.

Why: Helicopters can zip you over to Estonia's charming capital, Tallinn, from where it's just a short flight to St. Petersburg.

Best Time to Go: June through early July, when the annual Stars of the White Nights festival, featuring the world's premier dancers and musicians, is held at St. Petersburg's Mariinsky Theater—a sensational way to celebrate the summer solstice.

The Aegean Coast of Turkey

What: No offense to the Mediterranean and its armada of mega-yacht party people, but the life aquatic is a little sweeter on the Turkish Aegean. Maybe it's the sight of all those gulets, the traditional wooden sailboats, drifting on the azure water. Or the fact that even at the height of summer you can still find quiet swimming coves and empty tables at the harborside cafés. Better yet, the string of Lycian ruins near Fethiye is all but deserted.

Why: Gulets that you can charter come in all sizes, but the five-cabin Nialanca is the choicest. Onboard, enjoy all that justifiably legendary Turkish cuisine on deck.

Best Time to Go: June, July, and September (August is busiest); the top gulets are reserved six months in advance.

Okavango Delta, Botswana

What: Safari by jeep? Yawn. An elephant safari, on the other hand, is as exciting and immersive as it gets.

Why: At Abu Camp, in the middle of a 500,000-acre reserve (how's that for privacy?), guests can tromp around the grasslands with a family of elephants, either riding them (just don't look down) or walking beside them. Instead of peering at the oddly graceful behemoths through a zoom lens, you'll be part of the herd.

Best Time to Go: July and August, Botswana's high season, when it's sunny but not scorching and water levels are high in the lagoons and channels where elephants congregate.

British Columbia

What: With just nine cabins, three helipads, and zero roads—in the middle of grizzly bear country, no less—the Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort floating lodge would tempt any nature lover. Explore the waterways and countryside (including the world's largest temperate rainforest) by boat or chopper—prime fly-fishing spots are a short helicopter ride away.

Why: Hike through cedar forests, visit remote native villages, or take a yoga class on the dock jutting out into the fir-lined bay.

Best Time to Go: June through August—especially for whale and bear sightings. There are just nine cabins, so next year might be your first option. If you can't wait, try BC's other top lodges, Clayoquot Wilderness Resort and Sonora Resort.

Lake Garda, Italy

What: Even Mussolini mellowed out at Villa Feltrinelli, a pink-walled confection on the mountain-backed shores of Lake Garda; the melancholy Duce spent the last years of the war on the grounds of the neo-Gothic villa, bicycling under the olive trees. A more intimate experience than Garda's other luxury hotel, Lefay Resort, it is also closer to town, right on the lake, and includes a Michelin-starred chef. An alert staff keeps wineglasses and flower vases refreshed.

Why: As tough as it may be to leave the property, splurge on a private boat trip to the nearby vineyards, Roman ruins, and lovely harbor towns.

Best Time to Go: The weather is ideal in June and September, when there are festivals everywhere.

The Norwegian Arctic

What: The jaw-dropping landscape of the Lofoten Islands, in the northern reaches of Norway, is warmed by marine currents that bring surprisingly mild temperatures year-round—more like coastal Maine than the North Pole. In May, June, and July, when the sun never sets, the mountains are creased with snow, but the meadows are full of wildflowers, and sunbeams streak the white sand beaches and turquoise waters.

Why: Hotels are few and modest, so go glamping (as one Saudi royal family recently did). At your bidding, a tented camp emerges in a mountain valley, with separate sleeping quarters, lounge, kitchen, and shower. Staff includes a guide to lead expeditions, including rock climbing, kayaking, deep sea fishing—even a whale safari.

Best Time to Go: July and August.

The Galápagos Islands

What: The dream destination of the earthy-crunchy set is an unlikely one for a glamour girl, but there she is: the M/Y Grace, a lovely 1920s yacht once owned by Monaco's Princess Grace.

Why: A few owners and upgrades later, the ship is now the charter of choice for American royalty, including a certain eco-minded Oscar winner. With nine staterooms, there's enough space for your nearest and dearest. Itineraries feature wildlife gawking, diving or snorkeling, kayaking, and scampering around volcanoes with naturalists.

Best Time to Go: June; the wind picks up July through September, but it's prime snorkeling season.

Landes Coast, France

What: On a rugged stretch of the Atlantic shoreline is a section few American tourists see, one with wide, sandy beaches backed by miles of pine forest and with more surfboards than yachts. Wild, serene, and unpretentious, it's also home to Les Maisons Marines d'Huchet, run by master chef Michel Guérard, a pioneer of French nouvelle cuisine, and his design-savvy wife.

Why: You don't come to this petite hotel (with just two guest lodges) for swimming—the ocean is too rough—but for long strolls along the dunes and forest bike rides, followed by insanely good meals (or picnic baskets). Bordeaux, a 90-minute drive, offers wine tastings at such legendary houses as Château Margaux and Château Mouton Rothschild.

Best Time to Go: June and July, before the rest of the continent goes on vacation.

In days of yore, the samurai country of Japan tried to conquer the world through warfare. Today it is conquering the world with its technology, its superbly made two- and four-wheeled motor vehicles and through the hearts of all who visit it. This island nation has it all: deeply rooted cultural traditions, ancient shrines and temples, lovely gardens, beautiful mountain scenery, geishas and tea ceremonies, and accommodations that range from ryokans or quaint inns to ultra-modern luxurious hotels. An overview of the best places to visit in Japan:

10. Koya-san

Koya-san or Mount Koya is the most important site in Shingon Buddhism, a sect that has been practiced in Japan since 805 when it was introduced by Kobo Daishi. It remains the headquarters for the sect and the small town that grew up around the temple. The site of Kobo Daishi’s mausoleum, this wooded Mount Koya is also the starting and ending place of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. Tourists can get a taste of the monk’s life here as they are allowed to stay overnight in the temple.

9. Ishigaki

Located west of Okinawa, Ishigaki is Japan’s premier beach destination and makes a good base to explore the other islands in the Yaeyama archipelago. Blessed with Japan’s best beaches, it is particularly popular with families since the beaches at Fusaki and Maezato are net-protected. Located 1,250 miles (2,000 kilometers) south of Tokyo, Ishigaki may not have the shrines and temples that other Japanese cities have, but it does have an exuberant nightlife for visitors who have the energy after a day of beachcombing, water sports or climbing Mount Nosoko.

8. Kanazawa

In the mid-nineteenth century Kanazawa was Japan’s 4th largest city, built around a grand castle and the beautiful garden. Today, the capital of Ishikawa Prefecture continues to cultivate the arts and contains an attractive old town. Having escaped bombing during World War II, traditional inner-city areas, such as Nagamachi with its samurai houses and the charming geisha teahouse district of Higashi Chaya, remain intact and are a joy to wander around.

7. Hiroshima

Hiroshima, located on Honshu Island, is younger than many Japanese cities, less than 500 years old, but its fate was forever sealed in history on August 6, 1945, when it became the first city in the world to have an atomic bomb dropped on it. Thus, the city’s attractions center around peace: Peace Park, Peace Memorial and Peace Memorial Museum. The city also has attractions that invoke more pleasant thoughts, such as Hiroshima Castle and the sunken garden of Shukkein-en.

6. Kamakura

Located on the coast less than an hour from Tokyo, Kamakura was once an important town, the seat of a military government that ruled Japan for a hundred years. Today, it’s a relaxed seaside resort sometimes called the Kyoto of eastern Japan because of its many temples and shrines. Its most famous sight is the Daibutsu, a huge bronze Buddha statue surrounded by trees, but the town’s ancient Zen temples are equally compelling.

5. Nikko

Nikko is a small town at the entrance to Nikko National Park, most famous for Toshogu, Japan’s most lavishly decorated shrine and the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Another popular attraction is the red-lacquered Shin-kyō bridge. One of the popular places to visit in Japan, the national park offers scenic mountainous landscapes, lakes, waterfalls, wild monkeys and many hiking trails. While stunning scenery is available year ‘round, fall is an especially good time to visit Nikko. That’s when leaves transform the landscape with spectacular bursts of color.

4. Takayama

Visitors who long for peace and quiet after the hustling pace of Japan’s big cities may want to head to the tourist town of Hida-Takayama where they can experience life in a rural setting. Located near the northern Japan Alps, Takayama is well known for having one of the best-preserved old towns in Japan. The prettiest section of the old city is called Sanmachi. It consists of three narrow lanes packed with wooden buildings housing sake breweries and little boutiques.

3. Nara

Nara, once known as Heijo, was the first permanent capital of Japan, established in 710. The capital was moved to Nagaoka in 784 when the government was threatened by powerful Buddhist monasteries. Located less than an hour from Kyoto, seeing Japan’s oldest and largest temples is a popular tourist activity. Visitors especially like Todaiji Temple with its cantilevered buildings, manicured lawns and deer strolling the grounds.

2. Kyoto

Kyoto today is the capital only of Kyoto prefecture, but it once served as the imperial capital of Japan for more than 1,000 years. Located on central Honshu Island, this city of 1.5 million people is known as the City of 10,000 Shrines because it has thousands of Shinto shrines, including the top rated Fushimi Inari Shrine, and Buddhist temples. Kyoto also is known for its lovely gardens and the Gion Matsuri festival, a July celebration that is considered one of the best in Japan.

1. Tokyo

Travelers who like to mingle with people will love Tokyo. The Japanese capital’s metropolitan area is the most populous in the world. From viewing spring cherry blossoms in traditional gardens to the fish market at Tuskiji. Tokyo blends the ancient with the new, from shrines to karaoke bars. Just walking the streets of this hyperactive city can be an energizing experience. When Tokyo’s pace gets too frenetic, visitors recommend unwinding at the beautiful Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.

Craving a getaway but not quite sure where to go? Here are 10 wanderlust-worthy vacation ideas to put on your radar for June.

Corsica

The idyllic Mediterranean island is warm and sunny all month long, with average temperatures in the high 70s—which means you can hike, laze on the beach, and explore local vineyards without breaking a sweat. If that sounds too good to be true, just wait until you take a deep breath: the intoxicating scent wafting throughout the area is a Corsica staple. It comes from Maquis, an aromatic shrub that blankets half of the island, and locals will tell you the scent is discernible from far out at sea. As for accommodations, Tamara Lohan, the founder of travel club Mr & Mrs Smith, recommends the boutique hotel U Capu Biancu on Corsica’s south coast, which has an excellent cellar specializing in regional wine, sea-view suites and two private beaches.

Malibu

With its stunning celebrity-owned mansions, picturesque sunsets, and plentiful dining hotspots, the Southern California beach town makes for a pleasurable June getaway. “It’s at once glamorous and laid-back, boasting over 30 miles of perfect coastline,” says Lohan, who adds that the area is seeing a surge in boutique hotel openings. One of her favorites? Native, a colorful overhaul of a beloved motel on the Pacific Coast Highway. “The 12 bungalow-style rooms are bright and cheerful with custom art. Plus it’s just steps away from Zuma and Point Dume Beaches,” she says. Be sure to check out A-list haunts like Nobu Malibu (book well in advance) and Soho House’s Little Beach House Malibu.

Mexico City

“June is a wonderful time in Mexico City because it’s less crowded, but you can still enjoy the warmer summer weather,” says Lisa Holladay, the Vice-President & Global Brand Leader at Ritz Carlton. Though the city is often hailed for its remarkable architecture, myriad museums, and robust restaurant scene, Holladay says that style-minded travelers will adore the shopping, too. (Check out the one-of-a-kind boutiques in La Roma, a neighborhood just west of the city center.) For luxury accommodations, The St. Regis is among the best, and come 2019, a brand new property from Ritz Carlton is set to debut as well.

New York City

While there's no such thing as a bad time to visit New York, one could argue that the best time to visit is in June. Plan a trip during early summer when the weather is primed for dining al fresco, Central Park is buzzing with activity, and jaw-dropping sunsets can be enjoyed alongside rooftop cocktails. (For a true bird's eye view of the city, we recommend drinks at The Viceroy, which overlooks Central Park.) As for accommodations: The Surrey promises quintessential luxury uptown; downtown, The Bowery Hotel is a hip local favorite. The sheer variety of activities that the Big Apple has to offer is endless—but if you're in need of inspiration, check out our guide here.

Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

For history nerds, there's no place quite like Sarajevo on the Balkan Peninsula. "The city is a beautiful blend of Ottoman, Yugoslavian and Austro-Hungarian architecture," says Shelley Cline, President of TCS World Travel, a luxury tour operator that organizes private jet journeys around the world. She recommends paying a visit to The Sarajevo Tunnel Museum and spending the day in Mostar, a historic town best known for Stari Most, the iconic Ottoman-style bridge (seen here). Beyond the region's striking landscape, one of its best selling points is the weather, with a climate that's akin to the Mediterranean.

Geneva

“Geneva truly comes alive in the summer, thanks to its crown jewels Lake Geneva, the Rhône River and the nearby Alps,” says Holladay of Switzerland’s second-most populous city. “From outdoor concerts in the park to yachting on the lake, Geneva’s natural beauty is on full display.”
BOOK NOW The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix, Geneva

Amalfi Coast

“In June, sunny days are paired with the aroma of orange blossoms and jasmine along the entire Amalfi Coast, and the Tyrrhenian Sea will be warm enough for a dip," says Lohan. July is generally considered the height of peak season in the region, so in June, you'll find slightly lower hotel rates and fewer crowds. In the heart of Positano, book a room at the breathtaking Villa Franca (a member of Small Luxury Hotels), or for minimalist luxury, the whitewashed Casa Angelina in the cliffs of Praiano promises seclusion and sweeping views.

Langkawi

“June is a great time to visit Langkawi as lighter crowds allow you to enjoy the serenity of the island while occasional rainfall at night creates comfortable temperatures during the day,” says Holladay. The Malaysian archipelago, which consists of 99 islands, is known for its trademark aqua-hued sea and lush jungle. “You can enjoy open beaches, rainforest hikes, and cultural experiences including outdoor night markets and eco adventures,” Holladay adds.

Gobi Desert, Mongolia

Those in search of a decidedly unique travel experience should look no further than the desolate, breathtaking landscape of the Gobi. “For the full Mongolian experience, stay in a ger (the traditional home of the nomads) and visit with a nomadic family to learn about their daily lives. The people are so beautiful, friendly and welcoming,” says Cline. “We also like to take our guests to the Flaming Cliffs, one of the largest fossil sites in the world, because it’s fun to imagine dinosaurs roaming this incredible landscape."

Cotswolds

“The English countryside is in full bloom come June, as the days get longer and the meadows are dotted with wildflowers,” says Lohan. Plus, since children are still in school, it’s a much quieter time of year than July or August. Lohan recommends staying at The Fish, an inviting country house-style hotel set on 400 acres of land. The property just unveiled three new luxury treehouses that are not your average suites: they have heated floors, open-plan living rooms, wraparound decks, and even an outdoor tub.