Summer 2024: Discover the Essential Destinations

Discover the top destinations for summer 2024, meticulously selected by our partner Charter Voyages. You have a variety of choices: whether you prefer escaping extreme heat, fully enjoying the sunshine, or venturing to more distant destinations.

To escape the intense heat:

Iceland :

Bubbling geysers and roaring waterfalls, frozen glaciers and hot springs, puffins and docile Icelandic horses, remote highlands and fascinating northern lights await you on this island in the middle of the Atlantic. Iceland offers much more than the well-known tourist attractions. Off the beaten path, the world’s largest volcanic island surprises with often underrated secondary sites, hidden treasures, and still unexplored spots. A world full of secrets and surprises opens up to visitors, giving them a whole new perspective on Iceland.

Highlights from Charter Voyages :

The Deildartunguhver hot springs, gushing at 100°C, are the most powerful in Europe. Part of the flow is used for district heating in Borganes and Akranes, another part is utilized for the Krauma baths (a complex of outdoor hot tubs and saunas). You can also spot a type of fern (the deer fern) there, which grows nowhere else in Iceland.

Reynisfjara black sand beach and its basalt columns: a striking contrast between the black sand and the dune’s vegetation.

The Golden Circle: The Gulfoss waterfall with its majestic tiered drop, the geyser fields with its famous Stokkur erupting every 5 to 7 minutes, and Thingvellir National Park with its rifts created by the movement of tectonic plates.

The Snaefellsjokull glacier volcano, which inspired Jules Verne for his novel “Journey to the Center of the Earth.”

Mount Kirkjufell, the most photographed mountain in Iceland.

Finland :

A vacation in Finland is synonymous with wide-open spaces and absolute calm, granting you access to another dimension where the soul becomes one with nature in a way found nowhere else in the world. Days spent in a wooden house by the lake, with a private sauna and boat, campfires where you grill your self-caught fish, the sun lazily disappearing over the horizon... Time seems to move at a different pace, slower, yet all the more intense. Everything here truly gives meaning to the word “pure,” which is so often misused: pure relaxation, pure nature, and complete forgetting of the world.

However, for those wishing to explore other aspects of Finland, Helsinki, the coastal city, is just the place: Finns there are more open and modern than in other towns of Central Europe. Technological progress is gradually imposing itself in contrast with the still very much alive traditions, customs, cultures, and languages of this nation, whether in Karelia in the East, near Russia and influenced by Orthodoxy, or the Samis in the North of the country, Europe’s last nomads, who live in amazing symbiosis with nature, using everything it offers. Unlike other Scandinavian countries, Finland lets you discover many elements unknown in our latitudes, such as the sauna culture, which was born here and is worth experiencing in all its authenticity—just like the new sensation, after the steam bath, of plunging into the lake in front of your door for a refreshing midnight swim, or blinking in the face of the setting sun and hearing nothing but birds chirping, memories that stay with you forever.

Highlights from Charter Voyages :

Staying in one of the wonderful Finnish holiday homes, a Mökki. Most of the time, they are located in the middle of a forest, near a lake, or in a beautiful natural setting. Mökki cabins let you enjoy the sparsely populated North Karelia region.

The midnight sun: What makes Finnish summers so unique, and what can you do in Finland from June to August? It’s not called the land of the midnight sun for nothing: the long summer days and the clear or “white” nights that go on and on are endless. Under a sun that never seems to set, nature puts on a stunning show, creating the perfect setting for a cabin getaway, sauna sessions, or strolls through towns with relaxed summer vibes, like Helsinki, and then ending the day…with a midnight swim, for example!

Riisitunturi National Park: What a wonder when visiting Finland! This Finnish national park, located southeast of Lapland near the town of Posio, surrounds the tunturis (the Finnish word for mountain or hill), with the summit at Mt. Riisitunturi, at an altitude of 463 meters. The park is perfect for hiking, with its forests of majestic conifers cut by trails where, if you’re lucky, you might spot moose!

Pyhä-Luosto National Park: This park, also located in Finnish Lapland, was created in 2005. Here, one can delight in intense hikes amid perfectly preserved nature. Known as one of the country’s most beautiful areas, it’s also one of the birthplaces of the Sami people who still live here, some maintaining their traditional lifestyle.

Local gastronomy: If party spots stay crowded throughout the endless days, so do the terraces of restaurants and cafés. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover Finnish culinary specialties. Indeed, the country is well-suited to food lovers! Among the must-taste dishes are blueberry tarts, cinnamon cakes, and anything made from berries and red fruits. For savory palates, indulge in fresh fish like salmon or the small muikku sardines. Don’t forget the little rice pies and mushrooms straight from the fertile forests. During your stay, particularly on Åland, you will also find fully Nordic recipes. Among them is the sweetish black bread topped with smoked salmon or herring, or the pizza topped with cold smoked salmon and horseradish cream. In short, Finnish summers are both sporty and gourmet!

Scotland:

If you enjoy going to the cinema and traveling in Scotland, you may feel a sense of déjà-vu: the stunning landscapes from movie classics such as “Harry Potter,” “Highlander,” “Braveheart,” “Rob Roy,” “Trainspotting,” and many other worldwide hits don’t just exist on screen; they’re real!

 Make your own film! Discover the sites worth seeing: one-of-a-kind oak forests in Europe, lakes with small islands that seem to spring from a romantic painting, wild plains, rocky cliffs, white-sand beaches, and meadows abloom with wildflowers. The diversity of the landscape is incredible, and your enthusiasm for the North of Great Britain will grow with every kilometer traveled. Yet, that’s not all: distilleries and whisky tastings, castles and manor houses where you can spend the night, warm hospitality in B&B inns, and two cities that compete in attractions. Edinburgh, a coastal metropolis of festivals, history, and architecture, and Glasgow, once the ugly duckling turned from a gray industrial city into a design and culture hub. Scotland is definitely a destination worth visiting multiple times, as the island worlds, the poetic south, the highlands, and the cities are all destinations that alone deserve a long journey.

Highlights from Charter Voyages :

Glenfinnan (Fort William region) : The iconic Glenfinnan Monument, topped by a lone Highlander in a kilt, is a striking tribute to those who fought in the Jacobite risings. Located at the end of Loch Shiel, amid a characteristic Highland landscape that has become iconic, it stands facing the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct. A must-see for any amateur photographer or fan of the Harry Potter films.

Mealt Falls (Isle of Skye) : Skye is undoubtedly one of the most majestic, magical, and fascinating places to explore in Scotland. It’s no wonder that the island is the most popular destination among tourists visiting Scotland. Mealt Falls, in the north of the island, offer an incredible view. With Kilt Rock in the background, they create a simply breathtaking panorama. Take a walk around Loch Mealt or along the shoreline to enjoy the view for miles around.

Fingal’s Cave (Staffa Island) : This impressive natural formation is, to say the least, astounding. Fingal’s Cave, off the west coast of Staffa Island, is one of the most unique sites you can see in Scotland. Admire the massive basalt columns and the rock’s intricate details during a boat tour to the island, and experience the enchanting atmosphere of this sea cave set to music by Mendelssohn.

The Glenturret Distillery : Located an hour from Glasgow, in the middle of the Pertshire countryside, The Glenturret is the oldest working distillery still in operation—the first record of its existence dates to 1763. Here, artisanal know-how and respect for tradition guarantee the production quality, with its different phases entrusted to only 7 operators, following ancestral methods and using equally old equipment.  One of the distillery’s whiskies, the “Triple Wood,” was recently named the best single malt scotch whisky. If your weekend in Scotland is a road trip, don’t drive off immediately after your tasting.

Loch Ness : Have you heard of the Nessie legend? Discover it by visiting Loch Ness, the second-largest lake in Scotland, with depths up to 230 m, where you’ll find a captivating mix of legend, history, and natural beauty. There are plenty of walks here! Set off in search of the world-famous monster during a boat cruise. Explore the picturesque Highlands via the beautiful bike paths and hiking trails around the lake. Visit the massive locks of Fort Augustus nearby, drop by Drumnadrochit, and don’t miss the unforgettable Urquhart Castle.

Mediterranean destinations: 

 Majorca :

With over 500 km of coastline, crystal-clear waters, numerous white-sand coves, and a mild Mediterranean climate, Majorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands, is a dream destination for short, sunny getaways. Highly sought after in the summer, its beaches lined with pine trees and cliffs aren’t its only draw. During a stay in Majorca, be sure to explore the island’s interior, full of charming villages amid olive and almond groves. Renting a car is the best solution, although biking and hiking are pleasant alternatives. Finally, on the cultural side, note that Palma de Majorca, the capital, hosts many festivals, concerts, and exhibitions.

Highlights from Charter Voyages :

Driving across the Serra de Tramuntana : Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Serra de Tramuntana boasts some of the island’s most beautiful scenery. Take the road by car from the pretty Valldemossa to the red-brick village of Deià. Continue on, pass the spectacular valley of Fornalutx, and tackle the hairpin turns leading to Sa Calobra, where a magnificent cove awaits you. Keep going until you reach what seems like the end of the world, Cap de Formentor. Note that while the roads in Majorca are mostly explored by car, if you’re a cyclist, the island is a real playground.

Alcudia : Located in the northeast region of the island, the town of Alcudia is nestled behind ramparts built in the 13th and 14th centuries by King Jaume II to protect its inhabitants. Since 1974, the walls have been listed as a Historical-Artistic Ensemble. Within the old town, you’ll find cafés and restaurants serving traditional tapas and wine. A fantastic walk leads from Alcúdia through pine forests and ends at the summit of Puig de Romani. Alcúdia is also the perfect place to take a boat tour and explore every nook and cranny of the island. From small coves and dolphin watching to swimming in unsuspected places, an unforgettable experience awaits you.

The Drach Caves : Located on the western coast, the Drach Caves are a must-see if you want to visit Majorca. Spanning an impressive horizontal extension of 1,200 meters and a depth of 25 meters, the caves also contain a large underground lake, Lake Martel, currently considered one of the largest underground lakes in the world.

Mondragó Natural Park : Mondragó Natural Park offers the chance to admire the island’s wildlife and flora. Here you’ll find dry-stone walls and windmills, giving it a rustic charm. You can spend a morning watching birds and taking in the scenery or, if you prefer, go straight for a refreshing dip in the crystalline water of the park’s beaches, like Cala Mondragó. Mondragó is also a snorkeling hotspot. By swimming from one bay to another, you can discover exceptional marine wildlife and plant life.

Sunset in Estellencs : The beautiful village of Estellencs offers a haven of peace for those seeking an authentic way to visit Majorca. Nestled in the wild mountains of the Serra de Tramuntana, it’s only 15 minutes from a secluded beach with a shaded bar in the summer. We recommend dining at Montimar, an award-winning restaurant located on the village square, where the chef grows his own produce. If you only want a good cerveza and a splendid sunset, we suggest Café Vall-Hermos with its terrace overlooking the lower valley and the sea.

 Crete :

Crete is undoubtedly the most famous Greek island. It’s a marvelous place that combines everything you could wish for: charming towns like Chania and Rethymnon, essential archaeological sites such as Knossos Palace. But also dream beaches, a wild and authentic hinterland, delicious cuisine, and impressive gorge hikes like Samaria...

Highlights from Charter Voyages :

Chania : Located in northwest Crete, about 160 km from Heraklion. The main attraction is the beautiful old town of Chania (also spelled Haniá or Hania) with its Venetian harbor lined with cafés and restaurants, and winding cobblestone streets. Rich in history, Chania sits on the ancient site of Kydonia, which thrived during Roman times before eventually becoming the capital of the State of Crete (1897–1907). Visit the Archaeological Museum on Halidon Street and the Maritime Museum at the far western end of the waterfront. Take your time exploring the alleys, and you’ll be amazed at the treasures you’ll find: beautiful Venetian buildings with terraces and restaurants, shops selling Cretan crafts, weaving workshops, cobblers on Leather Street, and rows of stores selling hand-carved Cretan knives at Maheradika. Stroll east around the harbor, in front of the many fishing boats, yachts, and pleasure boats. The waterfront here is lined with excellent fish tavernas. Continue to the right along the breakwater to the splendid lighthouse. You can also enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride.

Relaxing on Cretan beaches :  No matter where you stay in Crete, you’re never far from a beautiful beach. The beaches of Elafonissi and Phalassarna, as well as the Balos Lagoon in Chania Prefecture, are superb. If you visit eastern Crete, the Kolokytha beach is only accessible by boat from Elounda.

Knossos Palace : During the Bronze Age, the Minoan people ruled the Aegean with an iron fist. The capital of this empire was established at Knossos in the region of Heraklion. Explore the remains of the Knossos Palace, the massive residence of King Minos at the head of the empire. Although it remains only partially reconstructed ruins, this historic site will spark your imagination and reveal the sophistication of this ancient civilization.

Agios Nikolaos : Located on the shores of Mirabello Bay, which offers a magnificent view of the sunsets, the capital of Lassithi is very appealing. Charming and unassuming, the town was once home to a wealthy population before the surrounding area was developed for more accessible tourism. Nevertheless, Agios Nikolaos has lost none of its authenticity, with its small lake ringed by restaurants and beaches perfect for lazing around, all of which create a captivating charm. At nightfall, the city takes on a livelier face as local youths and tourists fill the bars along the beaches.

The Lassithi Plateau : If you thought Crete was just sublime beaches and lovely seaside resorts, here’s a place that proves otherwise. The Lassithi Plateau emerges after a winding drive and reveals a sublime, unexpected rural landscape. Eighteen villages populate this area, the only one on the island at over 800 m in altitude and inhabited year-round. Here, fields and orchards are cultivated under the watchful eyes of the surrounding mountains. Among them, Mount Dicte is a must-see, as legend has it that baby Zeus was hidden in its cave.

 Cyprus :

The “Island of Aphrodite” is well-named, as the goddess of love and beauty is said to have been born from the sea foam here, according to legend. Bathed in sunshine all year long, boasting sandy beaches stretching for miles, spectacular cliffs, and forests offering welcome coolness—welcome to Cyprus.

Cyprus is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers, especially in spring when blooming almond trees turn the landscape into a pink ocean. The third-largest island in the Mediterranean, it has been ruled by many powers, leaving their mark on its history. Its uniquely abundant Roman remains with sumptuous mosaics, Byzantine churches, fortresses, and Gothic monuments bear witness to this. Through its great diversity, Cypriot cuisine also reflects foreign influences. Above all, the island charms visitors with its endless white-sand beaches, pulsating nightlife, and excellent tourist infrastructure in the south.

Highlights from Charter Voyages :

Cape Greco : Head to the peninsula in the south of the island to discover the wonderful Cape Greco. Among the most beautiful places to visit in Cyprus, you can take walking trails with splendid views. After your short hike, you can also enjoy a dip in warm turquoise waters. Don’t hesitate to stay for sunset, which is often stunning from Cape Greco. Beyond its coastline, Cape Greco is also a national forest site, featuring impressive local flora and fauna. Its geology is equally impressive, with natural arches and some sea caves.

Coral Bay : A few kilometers north of Paphos is one of the most beautiful beaches to visit in Cyprus: Coral Bay. This huge stretch of fine sand will delight those who love lazy beach vacations. Here, soak up vitamin D and swim in crystal-clear water where you might spot a few small fish. If you’re not a “sand person,” you can simply rent a lounge chair and relax at your leisure! Note that in high season, the beach can be quite crowded with tourists, so you might want to visit outside peak hours.

Ayia Napa : Covering part of the island’s southeast, this region has many surprises in store. It’s also one of the most beautiful and lively on the island! If you love relaxing by day and partying by night, we recommend stopping by… Discover the two main areas: Konnos Bay and Blue Lagoon.

Blue Lagoon is a famous cocktail, but it’s also a must-see spot in Cyprus. As its name suggests, the water is a stunning shade of blue. It’s wonderful to swim here and enjoy the various small beaches in the area. Near Cape Greco, Konnos Bay’s water is equally warm and clear, and the scenery will take your breath away!

Kyrenia Port Town : Located in the north of the island, Kyrenia is a port city worth visiting in Cyprus. And it’s well worth it! Indeed, the city is full of small seafront cafés and stunning beaches where you can relax for a while. Stroll through the traditional old town and discover many local shops. The city also boasts a sumptuous castle open to visitors, which houses an old merchant ship. Another castle may also catch your eye: Saint Hilarion, once home to a hermit monk during Byzantine times. You’ll quickly feel you’ve stepped into another era or an actual fairy tale…

Limassol : A seaside resort to check out in Cyprus! Limassol is about 45 minutes south of Paphos. Its location by the sea is perfect for seasoned beachgoers and for those seeking relaxation. Spend some time in its charming public garden with Mediterranean flora, and explore the surrounding vineyards. At the end of the day, a visit to the fort is a must! This is the exact spot where Richard the Lionheart married his beloved, Berengaria of Navarre, in the late 12th century. Limassol also has numerous small markets where you can find high-quality local crafts. And for partygoers, this must-see spot in Cyprus is also packed with bars and nightclubs, all by the Aegean Sea. Finally, don’t miss Kourion, a stunning archaeological site near Limassol. There, you’ll see mosaics, an ancient theater, and old public baths. It’s also an ideal place to try paragliding!

More distant destinations:

Tanzania, Zanzibar :

Tanzania captivates with its uniquely diverse natural environment: from the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro to the white beaches of Zanzibar, not forgetting the boundless savannas, there is no shortage of wonders to discover.

Tanzania’s national parks and reserves, including the world-famous Serengeti, are home to numerous species such as elephants, zebras, wildebeests, gazelles, big cats, and countless bird species. A unique experience also awaits during the animal migration, when millions of wildebeests and zebras head south at the start of the rainy season. Unforgettable safari experiences are guaranteed here.

For the more active, the Arusha region offers magnificent opportunities for hiking and trekking, including climbing Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. Watching the sunrise from the summit is an awe-inspiring sight that compensates for the uphill struggle.

Zanzibar, on the other hand, offers a laid-back atmosphere. White beaches lined with palm trees invite you to let your mind wander or to cool off in the clear blue water. Stroll through the picturesque Stone Town and savor the culinary delights of the “Spice Island”—the perfect place to end a journey full of thrilling emotions.

Highlights from Charter Voyages :

Serengeti National Park : Serengeti Park is not only the largest national park in Tanzania but also the one with the richest wildlife in all of Africa. That’s why a private-guided safari is a must during any trip to Tanzania. Get ready for a unique show in the heart of nature and observe wildebeests, zebras, gazelles, antelopes, giraffes, lions, elephants, crocodiles, and many other wild animals up close in the Serengeti. Let yourself be enchanted by its preserved flora, endless savannas, and breathtaking landscapes. Spot over 500 bird species in the region and get swept away by the country’s raw wilderness.

Ngorongoro Crater : With a diameter of about 20 kilometers, the immense Ngorongoro Crater is astonishing. Considered the largest non-submerged crater in the world, this ancient volcano is home to Africa’s biggest population of predators. More than 25,000 lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, monkeys, flamingos, and other wild animals live amid mountain ranges reaching 600 meters in height, nestled in the crater’s impressive gorges, vast steppes, and dense forests. Hiking in the region, you’ll see the Maasai leading their herds to graze in the crater, in awe of this natural jewel spanning 26,000 hectares.

Kilimanjaro National Park : The fame of Kilimanjaro, considered one of Africa’s unquestionable symbols, extends far beyond Tanzania. In the national park bearing its name, you can take long hikes and observe numerous wild animals such as buffaloes, elephants, leopards, monkeys, antelopes, and huge birds of prey. Discover Kilimanjaro on a tour leading you from the tropics to eternal ice. Enjoy the pure air and the breathtaking view, and explore the 750 km² park from every angle. Ranging from 1,800 to nearly 6,000 meters in altitude, Africa’s highest mountain offers countless adventures.

Arusha National Park : Arusha National Park opens the doors to a fascinating and unique world. The smallest national park in Tanzania, it captivates visitors with dreamlike landscapes and remarkable biodiversity over just 552 km². At the foot of the impressive Kilimanjaro, you’ll have the chance to observe giraffes, colobus monkeys, waterbucks, warthogs, buffaloes, and elephants up close. Embark on an unforgettable safari adventure and discover not only the diversity of the landscape but also local flora and abundant wildlife. From steppes to dense forests, from jungle to towering mountains, Arusha National Park boasts unmatched richness.

Tarangire National Park : Tarangire National Park, the sixth-largest national park in Tanzania, is also worth visiting. Far from busy cities and tourist crowds, this multi-faceted park invites you to experience a unique adventure. Indeed, some 250,000 wild animals live in the park, while others simply pass through, depending on the season. Impressive animal migrations aren’t uncommon here, and you may have the chance to witness vast herds of elephants on the move. If you visit the park during the dry season, you can observe giraffes, impalas, zebras, wildebeests, ostriches, and warthogs drinking from the Tarangire River.

Zanzibar : Treat yourself to a dream holiday on the beautiful island of Zanzibar. Enjoy miles of white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, and admire gorgeous colonial buildings like the House of Wonders in the historic Stone Town district. Stroll through the town’s picturesque alleys, visit the bustling harbor, and explore the Darajani market. Don’t forget the lovely Forodhani Gardens and the splendid Spice Island, which was one of the most important trading centers of the country in the 18th century. A multifaceted architecture, unique local crafts, and a fascinating culture make every trip to Zanzibar unforgettable.

USA : The American Dream !

Cross the Atlantic, follow in the footsteps of pioneers, cowboys, and gold seekers... A trip to the United States holds an undeniable fascination. From the trendy East Coast metropolises to the plantations and bayous of the Old South, from the wild landscapes of Alaska to Florida’s incredible amusement parks, via the winding Mississippi, Niagara Falls, Las Vegas casinos, Far West canyons, and iconic landmarks—Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Golden Gate—any traveler’s imagination is filled with images preparing them for a dazzling experience: going to America, a land of epic technicolor spectacle. A jazz scene in New Orleans and Louisiana, a Latin vibe in Miami and Florida, a Victorian feel in New England, a bohemian touch in California, a Western mood in Arizona, Utah, or Colorado, beach vibes in Hawaii. Fifty states and endless discoveries to combine over and over.

Nostalgic adventurers and passionate explorers will quench their thirst for escape on a road trip along the legendary Route 66, passing ghost towns, cacti, abandoned gas stations, motels, and diners. The conquest of the West enthralls nature lovers who will experience unforgettable adventures & hikes in the country’s incredible national parks, which never fail to captivate visitors with their colorful wonders: the Grand Canyon, a geological marvel listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site; Yosemite, with its giant sequoias and spectacular waterfalls; Yellowstone, with its geysers, hot springs, and bubbling mud pots; Monument Valley, with its imposing red rock formations in the heart of mysterious Indian territories; and also Bryce Canyon, Death Valley, and the wild and grandiose landscapes of the Rocky Mountains... So many sublime open spaces of the American West.

Highlights from Charter Voyages :

The Grand Canyon : Located in northern Arizona, the Grand Canyon National Park is one of the country’s most famous national parks. It’s the quintessential image of the American West. Established in 1919, the park covers 4,931 km² of protected space and geological marvels carved over millennia by the Colorado River. It houses the Grand Canyon massif with its stunning red rock layers, evidence of a long geological history. The best way to see the canyon is by taking the Rim Trail, giving access to several exceptional viewpoints.

Monument Valley : Fans of westerns and John Wayne films, you mustn’t miss a stop at Monument Valley, one of the iconic and most beautiful landscapes of the American West. Straddling the border between Utah and Arizona, you can wind along a 27-kilometer trail among sandstone buttes, geological formations called mesas, and panoramic views.

Route 66 : Inaugurated in 1926 and running 3,943 kilometers, the Mother Road, or Route 66 , crosses the United States east to west, connecting Los Angeles in California to Chicago in Illinois. At the time it was created, this famous road promoted migration westward. Today, traveled by enthusiasts, it reveals vintage villages, gas stations, and restaurants from bygone times, which are listed as historic monuments.

Yellowstone : A trip to the USA wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Yellowstone National Park. Wondering what to do and see in this famous national park? Established in 1872 and spanning over 3,500 km² of wilderness, Yellowstone was the first park in the world to be designated a national park. It’s renowned for its wildlife, waterfalls, rainbow-colored hot springs, and legendary geysers that regularly erupt, like Old Faithful.

Zion National Park : In southern Utah, covering over 593 km², the Zion National Park showcases an exceptional variety of landscapes characteristic of the American West. Thanks to its legendary hikes such as The Narrows and Angel’s Landing, you can explore the very heart of the park, discovering canyons lined with ash and cottonwood trees, splendid waterfalls, and towering red sandstone cliffs.

Antelope Canyon : Wondering what to do in the USA if you want a total change of scenery? If you decide to visit the United States, don’t miss Antelope Canyon, the country’s most photogenic spot. Located in northern Arizona, this site—composed of two separate canyons, Lower Antelope Canyon and Upper Antelope Canyon—belongs to the Navajo. This geological marvel, carved by wind and torrential rains, can only be visited through guided tours.

Yosemite National Park : Tucked away in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, the Yosemite National Park was founded in 1890 to preserve a wilderness area spanning nearly 3,000 km². Thanks to its 1,200 kilometers of trails, you can admire granite peaks like Half Dome, towering waterfalls such as Bridalveil Fall, and majestic cliffs.

New York : Commonly called The Big Apple, New York is one of the most attractive cities in the United States. This eclectic megacity teems with historical, tourist, and cultural sites including the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Times Square, Central Park, and exudes a one-of-a-kind atmosphere unmatched by any other American city. To truly soak up New York culture, book your seats for a Broadway musical.

The Everglades : The wetlands of the Everglades are definitely a must-do if you plan to visit the USA. At the southern tip of Florida, you can explore over 6,000 km² of the Everglades National Park, famed for being the largest subtropical wilderness in North America. Hop on an airboat to meet endangered species like alligators, manatees, and turtles.

The Keys : Looking for something different to do in the USA? The Florida Keys, located at Florida’s southern tip, is a prime destination for diving enthusiasts. This chain of islands stretching out into the Atlantic Ocean is renowned for its underwater world, among the most spectacular on Earth. The five main islands composing the archipelago are connected by a series of bridges, offering stunning views of the azure ocean.

The French Quarter in New Orleans : A trip to the USA isn’t complete without strolling through the atypical and picturesque streets of the French Quarter of New Orleans, founded in 1718. Nicknamed the “Vieux Carré,” it reflects French and Spanish influences through its architecture and cuisine. Experience something unique as you roam the cobblestone streets of the French Quarter to find colonial houses with wrought-iron balconies and flower-filled patios.

Canada: Treat Yourself to a Revitalizing Breath of Fresh Air!

Between the Atlantic and the Pacific lies a fabulously vast landscape worthy of respect. Impressive mountain chains with peaks piercing the blue sky, tranquil lakes of crystal-clear waters, towering glaciers, dizzying waterfalls, and deep valleys—welcome to Canada!

A country that resembles a natural paradise with its many national parks, Canada is equally appreciated for its incredibly charming cities that boast a wonderful quality of life. Modern, cutting-edge architecture fits seamlessly into the surrounding scenery, which constantly puts on a fascinating natural show. Follow in the footsteps of pioneers or Native Americans, discover bears, grizzlies, coyotes, and moose, or meet a people keen on outdoor activities—Canada awaits!

Your summer vacation in Canada will likely begin in the cobblestone streets of Quebec City, the peaceful, flowery parks of Montreal, or the ferry ride between Vancouver’s different districts. Then you’ll discover welcoming, unspoiled nature, a chance to hike in the Rocky Mountains and admire the crystal-clear waters of Lake Louise, to watch whales in the St. Lawrence, or simply to canoe across a few of the thousands of lakes and rivers in the Laurentians. A 

summer vacation in Canada always means fresh air, relaxation, and conviviality!

Highlights from Charter Voyages :

Saguenay Fjord, Quebec : This fjord is unique in North America: it’s home to the Saguenay River and a rich fauna including salmon, belugas, black bears, and all kinds of endemic frogs! Occasionally, you may even spot whales visiting throughout the year.

Percé Rock, Quebec : A must-see attraction in Canada: on the Gaspésie peninsula, the Percé Rock features a nearly one-hundred-meter-tall natural arch that’s over 350 million years old. Enjoy it while you can: experts estimate this wonder will disappear in 400 years!

Historic Center of Quebec City : Quebec City is both a province and a city, and quite a city: Old Quebec is a series of historical monuments and cultural sites, along with numerous museums. The buildings are beautifully restored and truly worth a visit.

Niagara Falls, Ontario : We couldn’t skip mentioning the Niagara Falls—three waterfalls forming a horseshoe—where their monumental energy roars between Canada and the United States. These are the most powerful falls in North America! A popular spot, a boat lets you get up close to this majestic natural wonder—an incredible, refreshing experience not to be missed if you’re still wondering what to do in Canada.

Emerald Lake, British Columbia: This magnificent lake derives its name from its distinctive green hue; surrounded by a mountain range, it’s located in Yoho National Park, where it’s the largest body of water; you’ll discover a splendid fauna and flora found nowhere else!

Newfoundland :   It is hardly surprising that Newfoundland is now a UNESCO World Heritage natural site. Seemingly endless forests, impressive fjords, and a dazzling array of wildlife are sure to captivate visitors. In the heart of this natural paradise, you might, with a bit of luck, spot lynxes, bears, moose, and caribou, but also admire icebergs floating along the coast. Whale and seal watching is another must-do activity during any trip to Newfoundland.

Canadian Badlands : The Canadian province of Alberta enchants visitors with its splendid national parks and unique landscapes. The Canadian Badlands, in particular, invite awe with their impressive rock formations and dreamlike colors. Far from tourist crowds, you’ll discover a different side of Canada. Go on long hikes through the fantastic Horseshoe Canyon and explore every nook of its timeless desert scenery. In Dinosaur Provincial Park, you can admire ancient rock formations, as well as fossils and dinosaur bones.

Don’t hesitate to contact their team of experts for valuable advice on organizing your next trip. Their expertise will ensure an experience tailored to your needs.

For more information, feel free to visit their website: www.charter.ch.