Latest news with #summerGetaway
Yahoo
a day ago
- Yahoo
Flying or driving for July 4? Here's the best time to leave, busiest travel times in California
Summer travelers, gear up. This Fourth of July is going to be a busy one, especially across California. Independence Day is often one of the busiest travel periods outside the winter holidays, and this year is expected to be no different. A record-setting 72.2 million travelers are estimated to go on a domestic trip between Saturday, June 28, and Sunday, July 6, according to AAA. That's 2.4% more than last year. As usual, driving will be the most popular mode of transportation, as a predicted 61.6 million car travelers will hit the road. However, air passengers are also projected to break a record, with 5.84 million fliers despite round-trip domestic airfare being 4% more expensive than last year at an average of $810. This year, the Fourth of July is a long weekend – the perfect chance for a summer getaway. "It's been almost a decade since travelers have had a 'Fourth of July Friday,' meaning they are likely taking full advantage of the long weekend to build out longer trips," said Katy Nastro, travel expert at Going. "For travelers who are planning an international getaway this year, the day-off positioning means people can strategically build a weeklong trip without burning a full work week of PTO." Here's what to know about Fourth of July travel in 2025. Study: California has some of the best and worst airports for business travelers in the US According to Going, airfare during the Fourth of July week runs slightly higher than the rest of the summer because of travel demand. Still, summer ticket prices overall are down 7% from last year. For the holiday week, domestic airfare averages 3.4% more at $585, while international flights are higher by 3.9%, averaging $1,396. Travelers can save a few bucks – and avoid crowds – if they fly on the holiday itself. What is the best US airline? This carrier topped The Points Guy's 2025 Best Airlines list Domestic Orlando, Florida Seattle New York Anchorage, Alaska Fort Lauderdale, Florida Honolulu Denver Miami Boston Atlanta International Vancouver, British Columbia Rome Paris London Barcelona Dublin Amsterdam Calgary, Alberta Athens, Greece Lisbon, Portugal For the two weeks surrounding the holiday, car travelers should aim to embark in the morning to avoid the worst traffic, according to Inrix. Here are the best travel times: Saturday, June 28 - Before 10 a.m. Sunday, June 29 - Before 11 a.m. Monday, June 30 - Before noon Tuesday, July 1 - Before 2 p.m. Wednesday, July 2 - Before noon Thursday, July 3 - Before noon Friday, July 4 - Before noon Saturday, July 5 - Before 11 a.m. Sunday, July 6 - Before 11 a.m. Drivers can anticipate the busiest days on the road to be Wednesday, July 2, as people head to their destinations and Sunday, July 6, when they return home, according to Inrix. Throughout the rest of the travel period, afternoons will likely see the most congestion. Below are the worst travel times: Saturday, June 28 - Between noon and 5 p.m. Sunday, June 29 - Between 2 and 4 p.m. Monday, June 30 - Between 2 and 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 1 - Between 3 and 6 p.m. Wednesday, July 2 - Between noon and 9 p.m. Thursday, July 3 - Between 2 and 6 p.m. Friday, July 4 - Between noon and 7 p.m. Saturday, July 5 - Between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Sunday, July 6 - Between noon and 6 p.m. San Francisco Departing: Wednesday, July 2, from San Francisco to Sacramento, California, on I-80 E at 5:30 p.m. Returning: Sunday, July 6, from Sacramento to San Francisco on I-80 W at 4:30 p.m. Los Angeles Departing: Saturday, June 28, from Los Angeles to San Diego on I-5 S at 5 p.m. Returning: Sunday, July 6, from Las Vegas to Los Angeles on I-15 S at 5 p.m. Atlanta Departing: Sunday, June 29, from Atlanta to Birmingham, Alabama, on I-20 W at 12:15 p.m. Returning: Sunday, July 6, from Savannah, Gerorgia, to Atlanta on I-16 W at 2:30 p.m. Boston Departing: Saturday, June 28, from Boston to Hyannis, Massachusetts, on Route 3 S at 10:45 a.m. Returning: Saturday, July 5, from Hyannis to Boston on Route 3 N at 11:45 a.m. Denver Departing: Monday, June 30, from Denver to Fort Collins, Colorado, on I-25 N at 1:45 p.m. Returning: Saturday, July 5, from Fort Collins to Denver on I-25 S at 6:30 p.m. Houston Departing: Saturday, June 28, from Houston to Galveston, Texas, on I-45 S at 11:15 a.m. Returning: Sunday, July 6, from Galveston to Houston on I-45 N at 11:45 a.m. New York Departing: Tuesday, July 1, from New York City to Jersey Shore of New Jersey on Garden State Pkwy S at 4:30 p.m. Returning: Sunday, July 6, from Albany, New York, to New York City on I-87 S at 4:15 a.m. Seattle Departing: Wednesday, July 2, from Seattle to Ocean Shores, Washington, on I-5 S at 5:45 p.m. Returning: Sunday, July 6, from Ellensburg, Washington, to Seattle on I-90 E at 430 p.m. Washington Departing: Saturday, June 28, from Washington to Annapolis, Maryland, on US-50 E at 1:45 p.m. Returning: Friday, July 4, from Annapolis to Washington on US-50 W at 11:30 a.m. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: The busiest travel days for Fourth of July: how to beat the rush


Daily Mail
27-06-2025
- Daily Mail
Still looking for your perfect holiday? Immerse yourself in Greek culture, make magical memories with the family or escape the world on an indulgent adults-only getaway, in these three stunning bespoke resorts
It's not too late to plan that summer getaway. If you're dreaming of a stylish Mediterranean escape, exquisite natural landscapes and cultural encounters, there is one name those in the know are whispering: Ella Resorts. This exquisite trio of eco-chic Grecian resorts flies under the radar. But with their elegant design, incredible beachfront locations and immersive experiences, they offer the ideal summer sanctuary, with dedicated resorts for adults and for families. Expect gorgeously designed rooms and suites that blend into the beauty of their natural surroundings, blissful spas, incredible food and an escape that will linger long in the memory. Five-star Alkyna, on Corfu, is designed for romance and you can be among the first to discover this hillside haven, as it has just opened in time for the summer season. On the island of Rhodes, Helea is perfect for families, while Elissa is another adults-only escape, both thoughtfully created to immerse you in nature, while ensuring you have all the luxuries you could want to hand. Whether you're dining by candlelight at a restaurant curated by a Michelin-star chef or padding barefoot over the soft sand to a street-food hub for an informal snack, Ella Resorts brings its trademark natural elegance to every tailored twist and turn. And the unique Ellascapes concept has been created alongside the resorts to ensure that all guests have the chance to join in with a curated collection of authentic experiences to participate in. From honey-harvest to hiking, wine-tasting to windsurfing, Ellascapes are designed to sensitively support local communities in giving you fun-filled insights into real Greek life. All you need to do is choose which resort is for you… Alkyna Lifestyle Beach Resort, Corfu Luxury beachfront living is redefined in the Alkyna Lifestyle Resort on Corfu. The adults-only escape is a haven of sea views from private balconies or villas with private pools, and a dramatic rocky cliffside acts as a backdrop to the peaceful and secluded beachfront location. Accommodations are all designed with eco-chic natural materials for the ultimate in sophisticated and laid-back luxury. Three different restaurants offer Corfiot, Greek, and international cuisine, with the freshest local ingredients. You can even reel in a catch-of-the-day yourself with an Ellascape fishing experience, taking you onto the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea for an unforgettable and authentic Greek fishing trip. Other activities on offer include horse riding, an apiairy (honeymaking) experience, and visits to local olive groves where you can wander under the shady trees before learning about the traditional olive mills and sample the unique oils on offer. Hikers will be in paradise, with a trip along the white peaks and green forest of the Corfu Trail. Or simply sail along the shoreline, from one charming village to another, taking in ancient sights and natural beauty on your way to Corfu Old Town, with its historic centuries of cobbled streets and Mediterranean architecture. Helea Lifestyle Beach Resort, Rhodes Family-friendly resort Helea is the perfect mix of fun and relaxation, on the pristine shores of the Aegean Sea near Rhodes Old Town. Splash peacefully with the kids in the clear blue shallows, or for more high-octane thrills, take them to the resort's Aquatower or on a trip to learn a new water sport, with everything from family watersports to scuba diving on offer. Back at the resort, a curated entertainment programme of live music and animations is available and the dining opportunities are designed to appeal to any palate of every age group. Funky street food from authentic food trucks, laidback Latin American cuisine, classic Mediterranean mezze, or the refined delights of Italian-Greek fusion food with menus from awarded restaurateur Trastellis Group– all are available every day for yours and your family's enjoyment. Rooms, suites and bungalows are chic, spacious, and comfortable, overlooking the landscaped gardens or with breathtaking views of the sea, with some rooms including swim-up access. The perfect place to relax after a day of exploring ancient ruins and traditional villages, with guided tours giving you an insider's view into local history and heritage. Elissa Lifestyle Beach Resort, Rhodes Adults-only resort Elissa is perfectly placed on Kallithea beach, a Blue Flag beach with crystal-clear water and white sand. Elissa's architecture is designed in traditional Rhodian style, updated with contemporary flourishes and comfortable amenities for a charmingly laidback and luxurious lifestyle. Choose between four restaurants, from modern Greek seafood, to fusion and exquisite Asian specialities, plus three separate bars for your daily refreshment. Or escape for an excursion to the local sights. Just a short drive from the Old Town, you can wander the medieval streets in the mornings, before escaping to the peaceful Valley of the Butterflies, a lush and shady nature reserve. Enjoy the peaceful sea views from your private veranda, unwind in the serene oasis of the resort spa, or wake up with a splash in one of the many freshwater pools. For an upgraded escape, Elissa also offers the Ellavated Bliss experience, a premium all-inclusive offering with exclusive dining opportunities, including signature events with local delicacies, fine wines and champagne tastings. Escape to Ella Resorts Discover your perfect sanctuary this summer at Ella Resorts, the best-kept secret in Greece for those who like real-life luxury on the down-low. From families of all ages to adults-only, Ella Resorts offers an authentic, elegant, and relaxed Mediterranean experience. And keep your eyes open for Ella Resort's fourth haven, Rocrita, opening on the island of Crete in 2026.