With summer quickly approaching, students are eager to begin the search for vacation spots with their families. Specific places are always thought of when it comes to choosing a summer destination, but there are places that students can go where they will not face the crowds of many well-known summer vacation spots.

            “Whenever I choose to go to like the beach or somewhere, there is always a ton of people,” said Brennen Davis, sophomore. “This summer I will probably try to find somewhere a little less crowded.”

            The most popular summer vacation destinations in the world include Orlando, Florida; Las Vegas, Nevada; London, England; Paris, France; Venice, Italy; Miami, Florida; Los Angeles, California and Honolulu, Hawaii. Thousands of people flock to these places every year in search of relaxation, sun and adventure.

            “Beaches and other popular vacation spots are overwhelming because it’s a long drive and there’s always a lot of people there,” said Mike Herder, sophomore.  “People should think of places that are easy to get to this summer to just relax and have fun.”

            However, there are destinations for summer vacations that will help to avoid the regular populous area. Some are close to home, while others far away, but they all provide a relaxing vacation without the strain of a constant flood of tourists.

One such place is Hot Spring, North Carolina. The small mountain town is about 40 minutes north of Asheville. It is named for the 100-plus degree mineral water first discovered by Native Americans. The water is used in the resorts and spas there as a form of relaxation. Other popular activities in Hot Springs include canoeing, white water rafting, horseback riding, fishing and hiking.

“It was a lot of fun, and I recommend going white water rafting,” said Blake Carroll, freshman, who has traveled to Hot Springs with his family.

            If one is not fond of the mountains, or prefers a more beach-like setting for their vacation without losing the feel of being in a town, going to Edisto Island, South Carolina could satisfy this desire. It is an un-commercialized, family-oriented beach located about one hour south of Charleston, South Carolina. Edisto Island is full of campgrounds, golf courses and open beaches perfect for everyone. It can serve as its own vacation destination or as a day trip from Charleston, which has historic Civil War sites and plenty of restaurants, shopping and boating.

            “My aunt used to live in Charleston, so we would drive there about three times a year,” said Aubrey Barker, freshman. “The island is pretty and has nice weather. They have cute shops and nice beaches that aren’t that crowded.”

            When people think of going to the Caribbean, they normally think of the Bahamas. However, there is a chain of islands called the British Virgin Islands (BVI) that is secluded and peaceful with white sand beaches and crystal clear water. Though there are 60 islands in the entire chain, most people who visit only go to Tortola, Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke which only has 200 inhabitants on the island. Numerous activities include snorkeling, sailing, parasailing, scuba diving, surfing, swimming with dolphins and windsurfing. The island of Tortola is also home to many spas.

            “I’m planning a trip there this summer, and I’m beyond excited,” said Alexandria Podolski, freshman. “It looks like a secluded paradise.”

            Though it is far from home, the island of Capri, Italy offers an amazing place to get away. It is a small island off of the coast of Italy that is home to many beaches, restaurants, spas, shops and historic churches. One of the most enjoyed tourist attractions is the Blue Grotto, an ocean cave where the water reflects a neon blue color when the sun hits it. Many people go to the Isle of Capri as a day trip from Italy, but some stay there for an entire vacation.

            “The island of Capri is one of the most beautiful places on earth,” said “getoutandgo” in a review to www.tripconnect.com. “I went there last summer… I got to go into the Blue Grotto and swim through the Green Grotto. Take some time while you are in Italy and visit this magical place.”

            Millions head to popular vacation spots during the summer months. So many people flock to these spots that they often become so crowded that some people do not enjoy themselves as much. Certain places may be popular, but there are other places in the world that can serve as excellent vacation spots, without the crowds.