Summer travel trends: cool getaways, cruises, and smarter ways to plan ahead

ATLANTA, Ga. (ATL Live) - Atlanta travelers planning summer vacations are facing high demand across popular routes, plus tighter availability as families lock in dates earlier than usual. On ATL Live, host Ava Braatz talked with Kacie Darden, owner of Blue Pineapple Travel, about what’s trending and how to plan trips with fewer surprises.

Darden says domestic travel continues to be a top pick, especially for travelers looking to keep flights shorter and costs more predictable. She’s also seeing strong interest in cooler-weather destinations—like Alaska and parts of the Nordic region—as people look for a different kind of summer break. Western Europe remains a frequent request, with Italy, France, and Spain still drawing big crowds.

Cruises are also seeing increased attention, particularly itineraries where travelers can drive to the port. It’s a way to get that international feel without building a trip around airfare. Another standout trend: multigenerational vacations, with families planning trips that work for kids, parents, and grandparents.

On the practical side, Darden recommends leaving extra time for airports and cruise terminals, booking as early as possible for better pricing and options, and considering travel insurance to protect big trip investments.

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