
Summer has arrived, and our readers are busily mapping out their travel plans. If you are looking for sun and sand but don’t have it in you to journey all the way to the coast, consider one of the many quaint towns along the Great Lakes. Planning to stay at an all-inclusive resort this summer? If so, don’t miss our tips for avoiding five common mistakes vacationers often make. If retirement is in sight for you, our writers have shared their insight into great destinations to settle down, both in the States and abroad.

17. Charming Small Towns On Lake Erie
Nestled along the coast of Lake Erie, you will discover numerous small towns awaiting you in northern Ohio. These charming towns make this region a must-visit summer destination — or a must-visit any time of the year for that matter. Discover lakeside lighthouses, peruse local eateries and boutiques, or hit the beach and enjoy the water in one of these eight charming small towns on Lake Erie.
16. Can’t-Miss National Monuments In Arizona
Arizona’s most defining natural feature is undoubtedly the Grand Canyon. Many others have at least heard of the state’s other two national parks: Saguaro and Petrified Forest. However, make time for the 19 national monuments that complete the mosaic of nature and history scattered around the state as well. If you are intimidated by 19, consider these eight can’t-miss Arizona national monuments at the very least.
15. Beautiful Michigan Towns To Visit On Lake Superior
A visit to Michigan‘s Upper Peninsula would be incomplete without experiencing the vastness of Lake Superior. With only a little more than 300,000 residents — across the entire peninsula — there is no more ideal location to get away for some quality R&R. With miles of serene shoreline at your disposal, one of these seven beautiful Michigan towns on Lake Superior would make the perfect destination to relax this summer.

14. Amazing European Cities To Visit In June
June is officially here, and with it comes early summer with warmer weather devoid of the unbearable scorching heat that comes with late summer. Europe has mastered the art of outdoor dining, terraces, and courtyards ideal for enjoying its historic beauty and communal culture, especially in the summer months. Read more about these nine amazing European cities ready for your June visit.
13. Must-See Sites In Florida’s Alligator Alley
The stretch of highway connecting Naples and Miami cuts through the very heart of the Everglades. This is likely why U.S. 41 has earned the nickname “Alligator Alley.” This unique Florida drive is best completed slowly to thoroughly enjoy the sites along the way. You just need to be faster than the gators; or at least faster than someone in your group. Enjoy these 12 must-see sites along Florida’s Alligator Alley.
12. Mistakes To Avoid At All-Inclusive Resorts
All-inclusive resorts are the ideal way to vacation for many travelers, especially budget-savvy vacationers who enjoy knowing the bottom line up front. However, many all-inclusive resorts have finicky fine print exceptions to consider when choosing where to stay. Consider our expert’s tips on the five mistakes to avoid when visiting an all-inclusive.

11. Best International Small Towns
London. Paris. Tokyo. Sydney. When considering international travel, these cities — among many others — likely come to mind, as they are known around the world as must-visit metropolitan cities. However, when traveling overseas it is important to move beyond the big cities and experience the rich culture that resonates in the smaller towns. TravelAwaits‘ readers voted these the 11 best international small towns and we think you should add them to your bucket list.
10. Beautiful Minnesota Lake Towns
When planning a lake excursion, what better location to consider than the “Land Of 10,000 Lakes.” The proximity to a nearby swimming hole or access to skiing increases exponentially when traveling through a state peppered with lake-front access. These six beautiful lake towns in Minnesota are ready to welcome you.
9. Why Portugal Is Perfect For Expat Retirees
Regular TravelAwaits‘ contributors Sue Reddel and Diana Laskaris have been traveling to — and writing about — Portugal for many years. Over time, their love for the country continued to grow until they made the life-altering decision to relocate there permanently this past year. Sue and Diana share with you nine reasons that Portugal is perfect for expat retirees.

8. Charming Small Towns To Visit In Southwestern Colorado
Southwestern Colorado is a great location for savoring a scenic drive through the slopes of the San Juan Mountains while exploring the many intriguing historical towns along the way. When you next find yourself traveling along the San Juan Skyway, consider these seven charming towns in southwestern Colorado.
7. The 25 Best U.S. Small Towns To Visit This Summer
Our readers shared their favorite small towns as part of our Best Of Travel Awards: From Alaska to Texas and California to Maine, no matter where you are in the states, there truly is a place for everyone on our list. Experience the heart of small-town Americana in the 25 best small towns to visit in the U.S. this summer.
6. Where To Retire To Get An Instant Raise In Retirement
When making decisions about life after the nine-to-five grind has come to an end, financial well-being is an important factor to consider. Our team consulted a financial advisor to determine the eight best U.S. states to retire for an instant raise for those wanting to ensure their money goes as far as possible in their golden years.
5. TSA PreCheck Vs. Clear Vs. Global Entry: What’s The Difference?
Security lines at the airport are an unfortunate necessity when traveling by air. With flights continuing to pick up as more and more travelers return to the skies, these lines will only get longer. If you are a frequent traveler, our team is here to help you understand the differences between TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and Clear as you determine which may be best for your needs.

4. Reasons Panama Is A Popular International Retirement Destination
Panama is both a literal and figurative bridge between the two Americas and has a whole lot to offer beyond its famous canal. Read our nine reasons Panama is so popular with retirees looking to live internationally and see if Panama is the right place for you.

3. Dr. Beach Announces His 2021 Best Beaches List
If your summer plans have been on hold waiting for Dr. Beach to reveal his picks for the best beaches around the world, wait no longer! For those looking to enjoy some sun and sand, Dr. Beaches 2021 list will surely have you dreaming of palm trees and waves.

2. Galapagos Islands Landscape Forever Changed
The Galapagos Islands will no longer be the same: See which famous formation recently lost its war with gravity, changing the Galapagos landscape forever.
And the most popular article from May was …

1. The 15 Friendliest U.S. Small Towns
Small town charm is often synonymous with friendly residents. Whether providing helpful directions or timely advice, travelers rely on the locals to make the most of their time in a small town. Make plans to visit the 15 friendliest U.S. small towns this summer and they will surely roll out the red carpet to welcome you.
As always, we love to hear from our readers, so please let us know what articles you have enjoyed the most and be sure to share the topics that you would like to read more about in the future. Consider subscribing to our weekly email to receive our top stories in your inbox each Sunday. Enjoy your summer travels!