Last Updated on August 1, 2024
Congratulations to students for good results this past school year! After all the hard work of studying and exams, graduates deserve a fun and relaxing holiday to celebrate their achievements. Where better to do that than at one of these eight amazing destinations perfectly suited for recent graduates. From party hotspots to volunteering opportunities, cultural experiences and natural wonders, these holidays will create lifelong memories.
1. Party in Cancun, Mexico
Cancun is legendary for its wild nightlife, beautiful beaches and cheap prices. Graduates can let loose at the beach parties and nightclubs overlooking the ocean. Many all-inclusive resorts cater to young crowds with pool parties, DJs and unlimited drinks. In the daytime, relax on the powdery white sands or explore ancient Mayan ruins nearby. Cancun offers the perfect sunshine getaway for graduates to celebrate their newfound freedom.
2. Volunteer in Costa Rica
For do-gooders, Costa Rica offers a chance to volunteer while also enjoying the country’s natural beauty. Programs like IVHQ provide opportunities to work at animal sanctuaries, teach English or build community centres. You’ll meet like-minded travellers and explore lush rainforests, volcanoes and waterfalls in your spare time. Give back to a community while also gaining new experiences.
3. Backpack Around Europe
Backpacking around Europe is a rite of passage for many graduates. Explore the history, culture and cuisine as you hit all the highlights. Head to Paris for crepes along the Seine. Make your way through the tulip fields of Amsterdam, Oktoberfest in Munich and the canals of Venice. Hop over to Prague and enjoy cheap beer. Discover ancient ruins in Rome and Greece before relaxing on the Algarve’s beaches. With so many countries so close together, it’s easy to hit tons of bucket list locations.
4. Safari in South Africa
A luxury safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Spot the Big 5 animals in their natural habitat: lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards and rhinos. South Africa offers gorgeous game reserves to go on guided drives and watch these majestic beasts up close. Top destinations include Kruger National Park, Sabi Sand Game Reserve and Addo Elephant National Park. Many safari lodges provide amenities like spas, pools and excellent dining between game drives. This special trip is sure to be an unforgettable highlight.
5. Island Hop in Greece
Greece’s gorgeous islands each have their own unique flair. Start in lively Mykonos to party the nights away at beach clubs. Santorini has incredible clifftop views and sunsets, perfect for romance. Ios draws the backpacker crowd to its sandy beaches lined with beach bars. Relax under whitewashed walls and blue rooftops on Paros and Naxos. The possibilities are endless when island hopping between ancient sites, olive groves, and pristine Mediterranean waters.
6. Swim with Dolphins in California
For animal lovers, the chance to swim with dolphins in California is an incredible bucket list experience. Some of the best spots include Dolphin Safari in Dana Point, Dolphin Swim Club in San Diego, and Oceanside Adventure in Oceanside. These programs allow you to meet, touch and swim alongside the intelligent dolphins. Many also incorporate snorkeling to view sea lions, leopard sharks and other marine life. Create unforgettable memories with these friendly creatures.
7. Immerse Yourself in Tokyo
Tokyo dazzles the senses with its neon city streets, peaceful shrines and delicious eats. Try karaoke in a neon-lit parlour then walk under the cherry blossoms. Visit Sensoji Temple before shopping the trendy Harajuku district. Tour the imperial palace and gardens. Feast on ramen, sushi and Japanese sweets. At night, sing along at a cat cafe or dance at a futuristic club. Tokyo perfectly blends ancient traditions with cutting edge cool.
8. Road Trip Australia’s East Coast
There’s no better place for an epic road trip than along Australia’s stunning east coast. The classic route goes from Sydney up to Cairns with tons of adventures along the way. Watch the sunrise at Byron Bay then skydive over the Whitsunday Islands. Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef before hiking the rainforests near Cairns. Drive along the coast between national parks and hip surf towns. An Aussie road trip will provide amazing memories with friends to last a lifetime.
After exams and graduation, graduates deserve an incredible getaway to celebrate their achievements. These eight destinations offer unique experiences, natural wonders and fun in the sun perfect for recent grads. From African safaris to European backpacking, graduates can make awesome memories at these fantastic locations worldwide. Take an epic trip that sets the tone for an amazing life ahead!
