If summer leave is your only chance to escape abroad, then you can transfer your holidays abroad. And if you are looking for something “alternative” away from the busiest places of the world, see our suggestions.

Ayvalık, Turkey

City and one of the safest ports on the west coast of Asia Minor, opposite Lesvos, in the northeast of Mytilene, Ayvalik is home to some of the most beautiful beaches of Turkey and is within walking distance. It is a very good alternative to the large Bodrum, with crystal clear waters and in many cases shallow and ideal for children and families. Importantly, it is also one of Europe’s most economical destinations, meaning it will not empty your wallet.

Skåne, Sweden

If you are looking for clean and beautiful beaches, with a few people and a lot of isolation, without the heat of Greece, take souvenirs to southern Sweden. Skåne is the southern region, so the temperatures will be summer, but not too high, the beaches are clean and there will always be room for your towel. One of the most beautiful beaches is Fapsterbo and Skanör, where you will see well-lined, beautiful, colorful pillows to give it some more air.

Yvonand, Sweden

No matter how you feel, in Switzerland you will find one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Located on Lake Neuchâtel and you can lay your towel on the sand, overlooking the wooded hills that stretch back. Around the lake you will find several places to set up a stage, meaning you can spend your holidays there quite economically.

Playa de las Galgas, Tenerife

A very good alternative to the bustling beaches of Tenerife is the Playa de las Galgas, which is a small creek-diamond, visited mostly by the locals. Most tourists heading to this part of Tenerife usually prefer the most popular beaches of Costa Adeje, such as Fañabé and Torviscas, which means that you are most likely to have this beautiful Canarian beach for yourself. It is accessible by foot, while those staying at the 5th Roca Nivaria Gran Hotel can reach it through a cave.

Gilli Islands, Indonesia

These islands are the ideal alternative to the popular destinations of Thailand and Dubai and are essentially three islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air) that can be approached from the land and feel like it is isolated in the middle ocean. There are no cars, only beautiful beaches with turquoise waters, plenty of wildlife (attention to lizards) and many options for affordable accommodation, from coastal wooden houses to boutique hotels that pop up one after another in recent years. You can stay at a Komodo resort and after that move to Gilli islands.

Ryde, Isle of Wight, United Kingdom

Forget Spain and Portugal and choose Ryde for this summer. On the Isle of Wight there are some of the best beaches in the United Kingdom, with Appley beach being a truly hidden diamond known only to the locals – so far. You will find it very easy if you keep in mind the Appley tower, a gothic construction of 1875 by the eccentric local owner Sir William Hutt. And if your hunger knocks on the door after bathing, enjoy the classic fish and chips’ specialties as you watch the yachts go to Solent’s waters.

Do dare to spend some time at one of the above islands and let yourself feel free and relaxed. After you do so you will realize that spending some time with alone and with our beloved ones, is one of the greatest pleasures of life. Don’t think too much and just choose the destination and pack your bag! You are going to love all of them!