5 Destinations To Escape Manila Heat

It’s not even officially summer yet in Manila, but the weather is becoming too much to bear at times. If you’re looking to take a break from the sweltering city heat to experience more pleasant temperatures, fly off to any of these destinations and partake in some exciting events as well:

1. Barossa Valley, Australia

Above Photo by Artisans Of Barossa from My Barossa Facebook page

The whole of Australia is experiencing autumn these months, so it’s a good time to enjoy warm, sunny days and cool nights in the country. A good area to check out is Australia’s most famous wine region, Barossa Valley in the south. Here, you can embark on a journey of wine discovery by enrolling in a tasting master class or winging the wine trails at your own pace. In any case, you can enjoy the fine weather with a glass of shiraz or riesling in hand.

2. Patagonia

Above Photo from visitchile.com

The southernmost inhabitable area of the world is shared by Chile and Argentina, and it’s very close to Antarctica. Patagonia has the same climate system as Australia, so expect cooler weather and orangey landscapes.

You will not run out of things to do on either side of Patagonia, but in the Chilean region, the Torres del Paines National Park just begs to be seen. It features an impressively diverse landscape that includes azure lakes, untouched forests, wild rivers, imposing mountain ranges, and stark blue glaciers. The journey to experience all of these may take multiple days and you may also encounter unpredictable micro weather systems, so prepare well.

3. Terelj National Park, Mongolia

Above Photo from toursmongolia.com

On the Northern Hemisphere, spring is in full bloom. But in Mongolia, winter still very much lingers in the air. Take advantage of the chilly weather by trekking through Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, located 80 km away from the capital, Ulaanbaatar. Be mesmerized by the natural terrain consisting of meadows carpeted with wild flowers, formidable rock formations against green hills and valleys, and streams and rivers winding through land. Adventure comes in the form of rafting, hiking, camping, and biking. If the weather permits, you can also stay with a nomad family for a culturally immersive experience.

4. Yukon Territory, Canada

Above Yukon River| Photo from istock

This region is famous for the gold rush of the 1890s, but history buffs are not the only ones who’ll enjoy Yukon. Spring is the perfect time for an RV road trip on uncrowded highways that make way to impressive sceneries like dramatic mountain ranges, sprawling valleys, and roaring rivers. You will also chance upon large mammals like moose, mountain sheep, and bears along the way. On the other hand, if a road trip is not your style, a wellness retreat might be more appealing. This way, you can settle into the relaxed lifestyle of the region.

5. Norwegian Fjords

Above Geirangerfjord | Photo by Andreas Trepte, photo-natur.net

Norway is notorious for its unforgiving weather, but spring (April and May) is quite pleasant in the western coast of the country. Good thing this general area also happens to be where the most iconic of Norway’s fjords are located. Sail from one fjord on to another—either by guided or self-tours—and you will feel like you’ve travelled back into the past.

Cover image by of Ian Codrington, from My Barossa Facebook page

Topics

travel life australia south america chile argentina mongolia asia canada yukon territory norway fjords winery barossa valley adventure