No passport, no problem: 5 US towns that feel like Europe
While an international jet set trip may not be feasible, travelers need not abandon their dreams of a European summer.
This summer, idyllic destinations such as Gran Canaria in Spain and the Campania region in Italy trended among travelers, according to Expedia's Summer Travel Outlook. Those who are yearning to sip on an Aperol spritz in Positano but can't make the journey can find a similar experience right here in the U.S.
Across the nation, there are several charming destinations offering the same iconic European ambience and natural beauty without the price tag – or effort – of crossing oceans. Here's another bonus: no passport needed.
Here are five domestic gems to sub in for a dreamy European getaway, according to boat-renting platform Boatsetter.
Spain for St. Augustine, Fla.
Dating back to the 1500s as the oldest city in the continental U.S., St. Augustine exudes a charm similar to the sunny coast of Spain. "Growing up in Florida, I didn’t realize just how much St. Augustine mirrored the charm of coastal Spain – the architecture, the history, the colors," said Caitlin Choate, Boatsetter's chief marketing officer.
Travelers can wander the picturesque town, relax at one of the white sand beaches Florida is famous for, or even explore a Spanish fortress dating from the city's colonial era.
Italian Riviera for Catalina Island, Calif.
Catalina Island seems like miles away from the U.S., even though it's just an hour off the coast of Southern California. The island's picturesque mountainous backdrop dotted with cliffside homes overlooking crystal-clear waters, plus a quaint main street and beach club, lends to the feeling of an Italian escape.
"Catalina Island has an Italian Riviera vibe, and it’s an easy day trip from Los Angeles or Long Beach," said Choate. "Rent a boat with a captain and snorkel the coves around the island before stopping in Avalon for ice cream."
Switzerland for Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
Making it out to the Alps isn't feasible for everyone, but Coeur d'Alene in Idaho provides travelers with a similarly stunning lakeside resort town. "Coeur d’Alene is like an alpine lake you’d find in Switzerland but with the laid-back energy of the Pacific Northwest," said Choate. Think glassy water with mountains for the backdrop. Quite an undiscovered hidden gem." Travelers can relax at the beach, take a boat out on the lake, or hike the miles of pristine nature trails.
The Mediterranean for Santa Barbara, Calif.
Located less than two hours from Los Angeles, Santa Barbara is known as the American Riviera for its chic and sunshine-drenched atmosphere, according to Travel + Leisure. "Santa Barbara has this effortless blend of California cool and European charm – white-stucco buildings, breezy marinas," said Choate. Travelers can enjoy the beaches tucked under cliffs, sip wine at one of the several wineries or explore the shops and restaurants along the pier.
Greece for Tarpon Springs, Fla.
With heavy influence from the largest population of Greek-Americans in the U.S., Tarpon Springs is perfect for travelers wishing for a Greek getaway. Set along Florida's Gulf Coast, Tarpon Springs' downtown mirrors a Greek village with splashes of white and blue architecture, delicious Greek cuisine and charming docks where sponge divers park their boats.