By Dennis Powell, e-Management

July 4^th has come and gone. While many people limit their days off to Independence Day week, August, and perhaps Labor Day, the e-Management Travel Team knows that July is a great month to travel; so we got together and created our vacation recommendations for summer travelers. Check them out!

Try the San Juan Islands in Washington State. Located approximately 100 miles north of Seattle, the scenic islands are popular in July. Surrounded by pristine blue ocean and made up of spectacularly lush green terrain, summer temperatures on the islands are in the comfortable 70-degree range. The islands are also known for their small towns and villages, vineyards, and fine cuisine prepared from local food sources. Nature and marine life enthusiasts may find orca whale watching fascinating. Known for its annual Tour de Lopez (on Lopez Island), the area is great for cycling. The San Juan Islands may be one of the country’s best kept summer secrets.

Explore La Fête Nationale in France. For those who fancy international travel destinations, France in July is a wonderful option. Americans who enjoy Independence Day celebrations on July 4^th should certainly check out how the French party and celebrate their Bastille Day (officially La Fête Nationale). The July 14^th holiday commemorates the start of the French Revolution. Events are nationwide, but visitors may want to visit Paris for the Military Parade on the Champs-Élysées. Visitors will love the annual concert on the Champs-de-Mars. As with any big celebration, there are major fireworks lighting the sky around the Eiffel Tower. Traveling on a budget? The has a page for finding deals in France.

Visit the Heart of Mexico. Time magazine picked July as a great month to visit San Miguel de Allende located in the heart of the Mexico and we agree. Named after General Ignacio Allende (a prominent leader in Mexico’s quest for independence from Spain), the town is rich in history and charm. For those who love architecture, the town is known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial buildings and edifices. San Miguel offers low humidity and comfortable temperatures during the day and cool nights. Foodies will love a sundry of rooftop restaurants that provide stunning views of the town. July also offers lower lodging costs for budget-conscious travelers. *** Great food, low prices, and amazing views…what are you waiting for, call your travel agent today. J ***

Discover Maui. Ranked at the top of the U.S. News & World Report Best Summer Vacations list, Maui is a great destination for those looking for a happy medium between upbeat nightlife and complete tranquility. First of all, the island has over 30 miles of celebrated beaches. Travelers who enjoy a good game of golf may be interested to know that the island has some of the best courses in the world. Nature lovers may want to take a day trip to Haleakala National Park, the perfect destination for hiking, camping, and viewing stunning sunsets and sunrises. For nightlife and a fine dining, check out Kihei and Lahaina. Each is known for singalong bars, dance clubs, and sports pubs. Visitors can relax in the tiered Pools of Oheo, which are filled by waterfalls.

Enjoy San Francisco. Contrary to popular belief, Mark Twain never said, “The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco.” Hopefully, that revelation alone should encourage visitors to consider this picturesque city in the summer. Besides, most people don’t go to San Fran for the weather. They go for the variety of options for fun. What’s so great this town? Everything! You get to ride on vintage-style cable cars that are popular with visitors of all ages and backgrounds! There’s the scenic Golden Gate Bridge, perhaps the most famous overpass in the nation. Other tourist attractions include one of the country’s most infamous prisons Alcatraz, the eclectic Fisherman’s Wharf, and the charming Palace of Fine Arts. Traveling with young ones or teens? Check out the Walt Disney Family Museum. Its Tomorrowland: Walt’s Vision for Today exhibition runs from July 22 through December 7, 2015! San Francisco has a little bit of something for everyone.

The Best of July

That’s our shortlist of places to visit in July. The Travel Channel lists other options like Barbados, Provincetown (Massachusetts), and Pamplona (Spain). Those are certainly on our bucket lists! (1) Do you plan to travel this summer? (2) What are your favorite summer destinations? (3) What other times of the year are great times to travel based on your experiences?