Summer 2026 is shaping up to be the busiest travel season in history. The World Cup in North America, the solar eclipse hype, pent-up demand, and redirected Middle East travelers are all converging.
Where to Go (That Won't Be Overcrowded)#
The Contrarian Picks
Colombia in summer. While everyone's in Europe or at the World Cup, Colombia's tourist season is quieter in June-August. Medellín's weather is the same year-round. Prices are lower.
Argentina in winter (June-August). Buenos Aires in winter is still mild (8-15°C), the city is less crowded, and prices drop. Patagonia has skiing. Mendoza has wine without the tourist crush.
Dominican Republic off-peak. The DR's tourism dips slightly in summer (hurricane season perception). In reality, most of the season is beautiful, and prices drop 30-40%.
Southeast Asia. Thailand, Bali, and Vietnam have shoulder season in summer. Prices drop, crowds thin, and the weather is still warm.
The Counterintuitive Move
Go where the World Cup ISN'T. While millions flock to US, Mexico, and Canada, the rest of the world will be emptier than usual. South America, Southern Europe, and Southeast Asia will have fewer tourists and better prices.
The Local Friend Strategy#
In any season, having a local connection means avoiding the tourist premium. They know which restaurants raise prices in summer, which beaches are empty on weekdays, and which neighborhoods stay cool when the tourist zones swelter.
Find a Local Friend on Roavi Beat the summer crowds with local knowledge.