As we get closer to summer and we see more states opening up for business once again, we thought now would be the perfect time for you to start planning your next big trip and how a vacation loan from Leap Credit could help your planning.
From a financial standpoint, it’s always best to put money away into a special savings account dedicated for travel. But if you’re financially unable to save for a vacation, you could look at taking out a vacation loan.
A vacation loan is usually an unsecured personal loan you choose to use exclusively for travel. Instead of car or home loans, vacation loans don’t require collateral and are approved based on your credit score and other factors.
Advantages of taking out a vacation loan are:
- You repay the loan in fixed, monthly payments over a specified amount of time
- Unlike credit cards, interest rates on vacation loans are often lower
So, once you’ve decided how you’ll plan financially for your vacation, where will you go? We’ve got some suggestions.
1. Puebla, Mexico
This city just southeast of Mexico City is known for its rich culinary history and colonial architecture. Though it’s Mexico’s fourth-largest city, you won’t see many tourists so you’re free to roam in the city without having to worry about large crowds of wandering visitors.
Points of Interest:
- Puebla Cathedral
- Downtown Puebla
- Amparo Museum
2. Maui, Hawaii, United States
If you are into surfing, Maui boasts some of the largest waves in the world, as well as great windsurfing conditions. Its beaches are surrounded by majestic mountains and flora with every color in the rainbow. Visitors can also go on scuba excursions and scenic hikes, all while staying at one of Maui’s world-class resorts.
Points of Interest:
- Maui Arts and Cultural Center
- Lona Ridge
- Haleakala National Park
3. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Known as the birthplace of the tango and Latin America’s shopping capital, Buenos Aires is bustling with energy, a romantic and diverse food scene, and historic neighborhoods. Be prepared to stay up all hours of the night as this city’s nightlife is legendary. Restaurants get busy at 9 p.m., bars at midnight and the clubs don’t start getting crowded until 2 a.m.
Points of Interest:
- Cafe Tortoni
- Teatro Colon
- Lo de Joaquin Alberdi
4. Costa Rica
This land of wondrous rainforests is perfect for those looking for a little adventure. While riding a miles-long zip line, you’ll notice the abundant amount of wildlife here, with 52 species of hummingbirds, spider monkeys, and sloths. There’s also terrific white water rafting and more than 800 miles of scenic beaches, and plenty of bars and restaurants to enjoy cocktails and native cuisine.
Points of Interest:
- Arenal Volcano
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
- Ruinas de Ujarras
5. Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
Rio is called the Cidade Maravilhosa and there are plenty of reasons why. With scenic mountains, gorgeous beaches, and a string of small islands, outdoor adventures like rock climbing, hang gliding, and sailing await you. Its dazzling beaches offer unlimited enjoyment with all sorts of sports activities, snacking, and drinking. If you love music, this is the place to go, with dozens of live music venues, the legendary Carnival, and plenty of dancing.
Points of Interest:
- Christ the Redeemer statue on Mount Corcovado
- Copacabana Beach
- Lapa neighborhoo
6. Yellowstone National Park
Spanning Wyoming, Montana and Idaho, Yellowstone is the world’s first national park, founded in 1872. It’s home to the largest free-roaming herd of bison in America and more than 150 species of birds. Formed on top of one of the world’s largest active volcanoes, visitors can hike, camp, bike or boat through more than 2 million-acre park.
Points of Interest:
- Old Faithful
- Mammoth Hot Springs
- Tower Fall
7. San Francisco, USA
San Francisco has something for everyone. Featured in movies such as The Rock, Bullitt, and Big Trouble in Little China, this American city is famous for the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and Chinatown. But there’s more to San Francisco than its place in pop culture history. Tons of shopping, a diverse food scene and lots of live music venues make The City by the Bay a must visit.
Points of Interest:
- Ghirardelli Square
- Fillmore Street District
- Pier 39
8. Machu Picchu, Peru
One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this Incan citadel is steeped in legend, mysticism and folklore, and a must-see vacation destination for millions of people around the world. Thousands of years old, this ancient city was all but forgotten until it was rediscovered in the early 20th century. If you’re an archeology lover, you don’t have to be Indiana Jones to enjoy what Machu Picchu has to offer.
Points of Interest:
- Hut of the Caretaker of the Funerary Rock
- Intipunku
- Ceremonial Baths
9. New York City, New York
If you’ve never been to the Big Apple, then you should definitely consider it. Made up of five boroughs, this humongous city overflows with drastically-diverse people, eateries and attractions. There is so much to do in New York City you’ll be overwhelmed by all of the choices. But it’s also just fun to walk around among the urban jungle of towering skyscrapers and take in its distinct vibe. The best thing about New York City is that it’s a trip that fits any budget.
Points of Interest:
- Broadway
- Freedom Tower
- Katz’s Delicatessen
10. Grand Canyon National Park, United States
Stretching 277 miles along the Colorado River, this iconic symbol of America is an outdoor lover’s dream. Beauty surrounds you with landscapes that will take your breath away and plenty of hiking, biking, camping, and rafting. The park is open year-round and each season offers a variety of different scenery, all of them spectacular.
Points of Interest:
- Grand Canyon Village
- North Kaibab Trail
- Grand Canyon Railway
11. Siesta Key, Florida
This under-the-radar beach is easily accessible by one of two bridges connecting to Sarasota. Siesta Key is an 8-mile long crescent-shaped barrier island with four main areas – Siesta Beach, Crescent Beach, Turtle Beach, and Siesta Key Village. Its beaches are composed of a mix of quartz and other minerals, making the sand cooler on your feet than other beaches. And, it’s silky smooth. If you’re looking for a relaxing vacation, this is the place to go, with plenty of golf, boating, and fishing.
Points of Interest:
- A Rodbender Fishing Charters
- Captain Curt’s Crab & Oyster Bar
- St. Armands Circle in nearby Sarasota
12. New Orleans, Louisiana
One of the More than 17 million people visit New Orleans every year. Known for its eclectic art scene, historic architecture, world-class cuisine, and limitless live music, the Crescent City is a mix of African-American, French, and Spanish influences that provide a rich, diverse cultural experience. Like Buenos Aires, New Orleans is known for its nightlife. But there’s still plenty of things to do during the day for pretty much anyone.
Points of Interest:
- The New Orleans Jazz Market
- French Quarter
- Marie Laveau’s Tomb
If any of these destinations appeal to you, or if you have your own ideas on places you’d like to go, make sure you consider applying for a vacation loan from Leap Credit. Not only is the online process incredibly easy, but it’s super fast, with funds automatically transferred into your bank account within two business days after approval. If you have questions about our online loan process call (888) 532-7842 or email us at [email protected] and one of our friendly team members will be happy to chat with you.