Celebrate the 4th of July — Abroad

You don’t have to remain stateside to celebrate our country’s independence day this 4th of July. Pack a bag and visit one of these popular summer destinations.

The Bahamas

Comprised of 700 islands in the Atlantic Ocean (30 of which are inhabited) and starting just 50 miles off the coast of Florida, The Bahamas features more than 2,000 coral reefs and has some of the clearest water on the planet. The underwater visibility and number of coral reefs lends itself to unmatched scuba diving and snorkeling.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam, capital of the Netherlands, is known for its artistic heritage, elaborate canal system and narrow houses with gabled facades from the 17th-century Golden Age. The city boasts world-class museums, a thriving art district, seasonal festivals, theater, live music, beaches, bars, restaurants and nightlife.  Cycling is a big part of the city’s culture, too.

Bora Bora is a small South Pacific island northwest of Tahiti in French Polynesia. A major tourist destination, one of its distinguishing characteristics is guest bungalows perched over the water on stilts. The island is surrounded by sand-fringed islets, a lagoon, and a barrier reef. Scuba diving is a popular activity here and coconut trees are plentiful.

Montreal, Canada

Montréal is the largest city in Québec, Canada.  Set on an island in the Saint Lawrence River and predominantly French-speaking, it’s considered the cultural heart of Canada. Its downtown area is home to many cultural and social events in the summer, particularly festivals. Come for the Montreal International Jazz Festival, the largest jazz festival in the world, and stay for the largest comedy festival in the world, Just For Laughs. Montreal has a rich classical art culture.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

With more than 70 shopping centers, Dubai has been called the “shopping capital of the Middle East” and the “City of Gold.” Known for its ultramodern architecture and lively nightlife, it boasts the largest mall in the world and more than 250 gold retail stores. The city is famous for the Burj Khalifaly, an 830m-tall tower that houses commercial businesses and a luxury hotel.