I don’t know about you, but I’m anxious to leave the comfy confines of my house. Bright outdoor spaces have always appealed to me. Even though I have received my Covid vaccines, there’s still a piece of me that prefers the peace and serenity of the great outdoors. Maybe that’s because I live in a big city.

The common thread of Airbnb’s top 10 hot destinations for Spring/Summer domestic travel is, drum roll please, the great outdoors.

I find it odd that I’ve lived at, or near, half of the places mentioned here. I’m not sure if that means I have good taste or I just like quiet.

Lets dive right in.

Southern Maine

Yes, I lived in Maine for four years, albeit significantly farther north than what Airbnb had in mind. Airbnb recommended this beach home, in Wells. Wells, is a mere 20 miles from the New Hampshire border town of Portsmouth (yes, I lived there too) and is the third oldest town in Maine. It’s quaint, charming and absolutely beautiful. (Starting at $500 a night and can hold up to 16 guests)

Cape May, NJ

Another one of my favorite places, (I was born in Atlantic City) Cape May is a dream Spring/Summer locale. Crowds are less dense than AC making it a perfect getaway for anyone living in the northeast corridor or the upper part of the mid-Atlantic states. Here’s an Airbnb’s rental for your consideration. This property has its own private beach and can hold six guests comfortably. (Starting at $303 a night)

Round Top, TX

And yes, I lived in the vicinity of Round Top as well. Round Top is in south Texas between San Antonio and Houston (closer to Houston) just north of Interstate 10. This is the place where country chic meets art and culture. Check out The Nest Guest House in the Trees. (Starting at $425 a night)

Lake Powell, AZ

If you’ve never been to this part of the United States, you are missing out on a treat. This man-made reservoir on the Colorado River in Utah and Arizona is one of shear natural beauty and outdoor activities galore. Airbnb has a Boho Chic (had to look that up) home with a large back yard perfect for five guests. (Starting at $146 a night)

Cape San Blas, FL

Many of you might be wondering where Cape San Blas is located. Try the Florida Panhandle, on the Gulf of Mexico less than 50 miles east of another former home of mine, Panama City. It’s a tiny sliver of land that juts out into the Gulf with sand as white as sugar. Airbnb has a Charming Bay-side Bungalow with an occupant rate of up to six people. (Price starts at $134 a night)

Orderville, UT

If you really want to get away from it all, this just might be the place with only 500 full time residents. Located in southern Utah near the Arizona border, this town is near two of America’s great treasures — Zion National Park (yes, I’ve been there) and Bryce Canyon. It’s also two to four hours from the Grand Canyon depending on whether you go to the North or South Rim. The Tiny Escape Home holds five. (Starting at $285 a night)

Mammoth Cave, KY

Located approximately halfway between Louisville, KY and Nashville, TN, this is the world’s longest known cave system. This is a hikers paradise both above and below ground. Tours are available if you’re uncomfortable exploring on your own. This Mammoth Cave Cabin with porch, private lake and waterfall sleeps six. (Starting at $218 a night)

Kitty Hawk, NC

This is more than the former home of the Wright Brothers. Hiking trails and sandy stretches of beach, attracts thousands to North Carolina’s outer banks annually. Airbnb features a Waterfront Treasure that sleeps four and bordered by 1600 acres of nature preserve. (Price starts at $210 a night)

Lake of the Ozarks, MO

This central Missouri hotspots is a vacation favorite. This scenic reservoir features both on an offshore opportunities including; camping, fishing and underground caverns. This Panoramic View of the Lake property sleeps eight with great amenities. (Starting at $107 a night)

Whitefish, MT

The resort town in northwest Montana is nestled at the edge of Glacier National Park. While the focus here is Spring/Summer destination, this area is known for a robust ski season. The jagged peaks of the Rocky Mountains offers breath taking views. Airbnb has a Classic A-Frame with a Sleek Modern Interior sleeps four. (Starting at $300 a night)

Featured Image: Photo by Zach Tilford on Unsplash