jinla

I will be taking off from work either the month of either July or August (2009) to travel -- a rare occurrence to get this much time at once so I want to make the most of it and go somewhere remarkable. I'm thinking South America (though it's cold) or Africa, with a mix of offerings including outdoor activity (camping, hiking, multi-sport), culture (wine tasting, social activities) and opportunities to meet the local people. Traveling solo, so would consider a group trip that also allows for time on your own. Any recommendations?

suze

I don't think there's a "best" answer to your question. Just depends where YOU want to go most!

I often travel solo, but for Africa and looking for all the activities you mention, I would consider a tour, if I could find an appropriate one. Things like camping & hiking solo are different than (for example) traveling to major cities in Europe on your own.

ShelliDawn

Where are you from that you think S. America is cold? Maybe in the far south of Argentina, but for most of the rest of the continent, it's a temparate climate. They really only have two seasons, rainy and dry and July/August are the peak tourist season because its the dry season.

jinla

Thanks for the replies. In South America I was hoping to include Patagonia, which is a bit chilly this time of year (I'm currently living in California). Then again, what's a little cold when you get a free month of vacation? Thinking a group adventure tour for that one as I wouldn't have much time to plan all the logistics. Anyone have any firsthand experience with GAP Adventures' South America trips, or Southern Explorations?

BobbyPam

If you enjoy wine tasting, how about Italy or France? Venice is magical, and Giverny in France is very charming.

Yujie

One month holiday is not short time. China is a large country, maybe can fill in the large time. We have a outdoor club here www.guilinhuwai.com, for hiking and trekking along the Li river, mountain retreat for summer time, traditional villages, pristine farming live, bamboo rafting or rafting, biking along terraced paddy fields.
July and Aug. is not a peak season. People will be friendly and curious about you who are coming from far.
Yujie is a travel agent who helps China-wide travel solutions. If for further information, contact Skype name:liveinguilin

annw

I like the idea of South America, but as mentioned it depends on your interests. Ireland and Scotland would tempt me, as would Scandinavia, all being temperate and offering long days, and I've traveled to the first two solo, but it really depends on what you're looking for. I've often thought a bike or walking trip would be fun for part of a longer trip--nice to have some solo time and some group time. Also there's taking a class as part of the time--friends have taken cooking classes, I've taken a mosaic class, and I've thought of language class as well. The Smithsonian used to (and may still) have two week seminars in great places on fascinating topics (I took on om medieval manuscripts at Oxford). Or there's renting a cottage for a month somewhere and getting into the tempo of your temporary home.

Some friends have highly recommended Buenos Aires to me for a future trip.

MsWr1te

The British Isles are great this time of year. Make sure you visit Edinburgh, Scotland during the month of August. That's when the Edinburgh Military Tattoo and Festival of the Fringe run. It's an exciting time to be in the city... but pack a coat, gloves and a hat. It gets cold at Edinburgh Castle during the tattoo.