[post_ads]We know what you’re thinking: It’s January, and already you’re worrying about summer? But trust us: Summer is vacation season, and these eight popular destinations are going to fill up fast. So make your reservations now and you’ll thank us once June comes around.
 |
Krakozawr/Getty Images
|
Gorgeous beaches, fantastic restaurants and crazy nightlife are just some of the reasons to visit this New York hot spot. And don’t be fooled by the tiny year-round population. During the summer, Montauk floods with travelers seeking a laid-back yet refined vacation. Don’t overlook the chic and happening Gurney’s for a long-weekend stay, or rent a house for a week or two…but act fast.
 |
DieterMeyrl/Getty Images
|
You’ve probably never experienced anything like summer in Iceland, when the landscape looks all Middle Earth and the sunset barely touches the horizon before rising again. Plus, with average temperatures around 55 degrees (warm and balmy for the arctic), you can explore the volcanoes, hot springs, black sand beaches and geysers in little more than a light fleece. Book a room at the Ion Adventure Hotel along the Ring Road ASAP to get the best deals.
 |
xbrchx/Getty Images
|
Croatia has been hot for a few years now, but it’s not cooling down anytime soon. The Dalmatian port cities of Split and Hvar and the walled city of Dubrovnik will be bustling with beach bums, island-hoppers, party animals and, of course, Game of Thrones fans come June. So book now to reserve your spot.
 |
Bernson74/Getty Images
|
Beginning in June, this small island off the coast of Cape Cod swells to a summer population of around 100,000. If you want to be close to the action, restaurants and beach, consider staying at the Winnetu Oceanside Resort in Katama. For a more secluded trip, a private house in the quiet town of Chilmark is calling your name. And if you’re planning on bringing a car, don’t forget to plan your ferry trip now. (Seriously, they book up by Februrary.)
[post_ads_2]
 |
Poike/Getty Images
|
Doesn’t it feel like all summer long your Instagram feed is flooded with pictures of Santorini? That’s because everyone and their mother heads to the Greek islands to bask in the Aegean sun. Book a room at the whitewashed Katikies boutique hotel now or escape the crowds in a lesser-known, quiet village like Paros or Folegandros. And if you’re planning on island-hopping, secure your ferry tickets now.
 |
Nicolamargaret/Getty Images
|
Dying to knock an African safari off your travel bucket list? Botswana is the place to go. May through September is the country’s dry season, so you’ll have a good chance of spotting the “big five” game animals in Chobe National Park or the Kalahari Desert. Dying to ride elephants? Reserve your stay at Abu Camp in the Okavango Delta.
 |
Hadimor/Getty Images
|
With the rainy season over but warmer weather on the horizon, the Pacific Northwest comes alive during the summer. Snag a room ASAP at the Fairmont Pacific Rim. Canada celebrates its 150th birthday this year so cities will be packed and in full swing with festivals and events.
 |
Savoia/Getty Images
|
The hottest travel destination of 2016 isn’t quieting down in the New Year. Bonus: It’s still super affordable. The only downside: All this popularity makes hotel reservations hard to come by. Instead, rent an apartment on Airbnb to experience the city like a local. Don’t miss a day trip to the sleepy beach town of Comporta, just an hour south.
More:
