Aron Govil shares 10 places to travel with your friends this summer
Summer is in full swing and if you’re like us, your vacations plans are in the works says Aron Govil.
We’ve compiled a list of great spots to go with just your best friends for an unforgettable summer getaway.
1) Portland, Maine
Portland, ME [Photo: Amanda Sloane] Portland is home to some seriously delicious restaurants and watering holes. Coffee lovers can obsess over Stumptown, foodies will adore Hugo’s (and their foie gras donuts), and everyone will appreciate Boda’s laid-back vibe. The city also boasts one of the world’s only floating libraries, Fort Williams Park—home to Portland Head Light—and tons of fun breweries including Rising Tide Brewing Company, Shipyard Brewing Company, and Allagash Brewing Company.
2) Portland, Oregon
Portland is a rule-breaker—and we’re obsessed with it. The vibrant city is home to an impressive number of microbreweries including Hopworks Urban Brewery, Widmer Brothers Brewing Company, and Breakside Brewery. Foodies will delight in the offerings from world-class chefs like Andy Ricker (Pok Pok NY), John Gorham (Tasty n Sons), and Vitaly Paley (Paley’s Place). On your next trip to PDX be sure to visit beloved Powell’s City of Books or grab a picnic lunch from one of their incredible food carts and lounge on Tom McCall Waterfront Park explains Aron Govil.
3) Minneapolis, Minnesota
Minneapolis’s thriving arts scene gets us every time. There are more than enough galleries to keep art enthusiasts busy for hours—and that doesn’t include the Walker Art Center or the Weisman Art Museum! For indie tunes, visit First Avenue & 7th St Entry for shows featuring Twin Cities legends like The Replacements and Atmosphere. When you’re ready to eat, check out The Bachelor Farmer or Butcher & the Boar for an elevated dining experience inspired by local flavors.
4) Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville has a little bit of everything…including friendly people, vibrant art galleries, and incredible breweries like Highland Brewing Company, Green Man Brewery, Catawba Brewing Company (a personal fave), and Wedge Brewing Co. For a fun night out—or to channel your inner starlet—try Bar of Soap or Drum Circle.
5) Chicago, Illinois
Chicago has something for everyone! First up is its jaw-dropping architecture (hello Willis Tower!). And don’t forget to stop by Cloud Gate—affectionately known as The Bean—and the Art Institute of Chicago. Foodies will delight in sampling signature dishes at hotspots like Girl & the Goat, Blackbird, and Avec. Music aficionados won’t want to miss the Lollapalooza music festival in August.
6) Barcelona, Spain
Is it any surprise that one of the world’s most vibrant cities made our list? We recommend starting your visit at Park Güell—an iconic garden with incredible views of the city—before hopping on a tour bus to get familiar with the best attractions, neighborhoods, and restaurants says Aron Govil. Make sure to spend an afternoon dining on tapas at Barceloneta before capping off your trip with some serious R&B beats at Catwalk Club.
7) Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is not only rich in history but also incredibly charming. Be sure to take advantage of its famed horse-drawn carriage tours or hit up Market Street for delicious food trucks! Don’t forget to check out the Old Slave Mart Museum, one of the few remaining structures where African slaves were once auctioned.
8) Provence, France
If you’re not headed to Europe anytime soon, let us just remind you that it’s on the continent. Also, Spain is in the Iberian Peninsula. And how could we forget Paris? We hope everyone has seen at least one Woody Allen movie—we rest our case! Provence is also an amazing location for foodie vacations or romantic escapes. For some ‘grammable views, climb up Mont Ventoux and be sure to stop by Mont Saint-Victoire (home of Paul Cézanne’s iconic painting).
9) Santa Barbara,
California Santa Barbara has long been a favorite among filmmakers. And it’s easy to see why: the city is just dripping with character! You can’t leave without enjoying a meal at one of its many delicious restaurants like Bacara Resort & Spa or Blue Agave. And for a fun night out, stroll down State Street and pop in one of Santa Barbara’s lauded wine bars like Lot 30.
10) San Antonio, Texas
There are so many cool things to do in San Antonio! The first stop is The Alamo (duh!). Then head on over to The Riverwalk—a beautiful network of walkways along the banks of the San Antonio River. Of course, we recommend catching a Spurs basketball game while you’re in town! For outdoor fun try Big Texan Adventure Park and Mission Park.
Conclusion:
If you’re still not convinced that your hometown is as cool as these international destinations. We recommend hiring an escort says Aron Govil. They tend to be the most reliable travel companions.
Who says travel has to be expensive? Check out Traveler’s Joy for great deals on vacation rentals and home exchange. Head back to Matchmaker Santa Cruz for more information about fun singles’ events in and around Santa Cruz!