9 of the Most Incredible Destinations Around the World to Visit in May
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Whether you want to kick off the new season with a Memorial Day Weekend beach trip or jet across the world for an early summer vacation, May is an ideal time to travel. In many destinations, temperatures are just starting to warm up, but peak tourist season hasn’t quite arrived yet (so you get to explore with mild weather and less crowds—a win-win situation in our book!). From glamping under the stars in the Utah desert to eating your way through some of Europe’s finest culinary cities, here are the absolute best places to travel in May around the world.
Moab, Utah, U.S.
Under Canvas's crown jewel glamping destination in Moab, Utah is a must-visit for nature lovers. Though the camping season officially kicked off at the end of March, we think May is the perfect time to visit since temps are mild (you’ll have lows around 50 and highs around 80) and you’ll score more daylight—both of which allow you to comfortably explore the beautiful natural scenery. While you’re there, hike to Looking Glass Arch, raft through the Colorado River, or take a sunset Hummer safari through the red rock landscape.
Prague, Czech Republic
Head to Prague in the second half of May for Prague Spring, a festival celebrating classical music with indoor and outdoor concerts throughout the city. It’s the ideal time to see cherry blossoms, magnolias and lilacs in full bloom—most of the parks have free admission, so it’s perfect for setting up a picnic under the flowering trees. You can also visit dozens of usually inaccessible buildings and marvel at the city’s incredible architecture in May during the Open House Festival.
Bhutan
Bhutan is the world’s only carbon-negative country. More than 70% of it is covered with trees, so it absorbs more carbon dioxide than it produces. To help protect this environment, Bhutan’s government only allows a select number of tourists per year, making it an incredibly special place to visit. While you’re there, visit some of the iconic Buddhist temples and monasteries, hike through majestic mountains and valleys, and indulge in world-class spa treatments.
Paris, France
Paris is one of our perennial favorite cities, since it’s chock full of beautiful design, architecture, and culture. May is a wonderful time of year to visit; you’ll get to enjoy events like the Jazz à Saint-Germain-des-Prés Festival and the La Fête du Pain (a festival dedicated to the very best baguettes and breads around the country). Here’s our insider’s guide to the City of Lights.
Sea Island, Georgia, U.S.
To relax and unwind stateside, we love spending summer weekends at Sea Island. On this southeastern barrier island, you’ll enjoy natural beauty, white sand beaches, three championship golf courses, and a five-star resort known for its trademark southern hospitality. Pro tip: Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a club sandwich and the resort’s signature Sea Island Iced Tea cocktail poolside—it truly is heaven on earth.
Where to Stay: Sea Island Resort
San Sebastian, Spain
One of the most impressive culinary cities in the world, San Sebastian boasts 16 Michelin stars within a 23-mile radius. Beyond haute cuisine, you can also spend time in Parte Vieja—the city’s old town with picturesque shops and cobblestone streets—eating alfresco at vibrant pintxo bars and drinking regional txakoli wine. In May, the weather is still a bit too chilly to go to the beach (it averages in the low 60s), but it’s ideal for exploring the city on foot.
Machu Picchu, Peru
The main tourism season in Machu Picchu runs from June to August, so you’ll miss the heavy crowds but still get to enjoy mild weather, clear skies and amazing views of the mountains. Whether you opt to trek the Inca Trail, eat incredible Peruvian food, or indulge in an Andean ritual at the spa, this ancient destination is full of rich culture and storied history.
Where to Stay: Sanctuary Lodge
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