Where Dinogo Planet team members traveled in July

I'm craving a getaway. During my lunch break, I find myself browsing last-minute sun vacations and diving into Dinogo Planet articles about dreamy beaches, exciting city escapes, amazing festival adventures, and destinations known for delicious cuisine.

My urgency has heightened, especially since summer has been elusive this year. Living in Ireland, I'm stuck with unusually gloomy weather—think gray skies, constant drizzle, and chilly temperatures around 18°C/64°F. I need to soak up some sun, so I'm contemplating a short trip in September. Perhaps something like this? My colleagues have also inspired me with their travels to vibrant places in various climates.

Let’s take a look at their adventures in July—who knows, you might find some inspiration here as well.

- Sasha Brady, Digital Editor

Southern Italy

Ru Ogata, Visual Designer

I journeyed through southern Italy with my husband Tosh, taking the train to three amazing and distinct locations. We kicked off our trip by indulging in the sweet and savory treats of Naples and soaking up the city's vibrant, welcoming atmosphere. I was pleasantly surprised to find myself just as thrilled by the delightful pastries, such as sfogliatelle (a flaky pastry filled with ricotta and cream), as I was by the main attraction of my visit—pizza.

Next, we took a train to the charming town of Parghelia in Calabria, which became a highlight of my trip. My accommodation, hosted by the wonderful Gianni, offered private access to a breathtaking beach complete with complimentary sun loungers and umbrellas. Gianni grows a variety of herbs, including the most exquisite basil I've ever tasted, available for guests to use while cooking. Despite its small size, the town boasted an impressive selection of restaurants, all while maintaining an intimate, non-touristy atmosphere.

Finally, we explored the more tourist-friendly coastal town of Tropea, where I savored some of the best cuisine of my journey. Standout dishes included a gelato dessert called tartufo at Caffè del Corso and delectable lobster linguine at Il Marchese restaurant.

Tip: When in Parghelia, catch the sunrise with a spritz while lounging in a hammock at the laid-back hilltop bar Pousada Café.

New Orleans, USA

Max Felderman, Sales & Marketing Manager

I had an amazing long weekend in New Orleans, staying at the historic Hotel Monteleone, one of the oldest family-run hotels in the U.S. I kicked off my visit with a swim in the rooftop pool and a famous Fleur de Lis cocktail before exploring the Garden District. There, I scored some great finds at NOLA Mix Records, picked up books from the Garden District Book Shop, and enjoyed fantastic coffee at Whatever Coffee. I wrapped up the day with dinner and drinks at Sylvain in the French Quarter.

The following day, with a cup of French Truck Coffee in hand, we rode the streetcar down St. Charles Avenue to Audubon Park and then strolled along Magazine Street for more thrift shopping. Lunch was a sandwich at NOLA Poboys in the French Quarter. For dinner, we dined at Pêche, enjoying a whole fish while they accommodated my food allergies, which can be a challenge. Before departing, we indulged in beignets from Café du Monde (so delicious), wandered through Jackson Square, grabbed coffee at Fourth Wall, and then hit the road.

Tip: Don't hesitate to walk! As long as you stay hydrated, the heat is manageable, and you'll discover so much more of the city.

Newfoundland, Canada

Jessica Lockhart, Destination Editor

A conference in Newfoundland provided the perfect opportunity for a road trip with my 72-year-old mom. We observed puffins in Elliston, visited the whimsically named Dildo, participated in the Newfie tradition of getting screeched-in in St. John’s (which involves kissing a cod fish), and explored the mid-century modern departures lounge at Gander Airport, famously featured in the musical Come from Away.

My top highlight was the stunning Western Brook Pond in Gros Morne National Park, featuring fjord-like scenery with towering granite cliffs adorned with trees and waterfalls flowing into the tranquil freshwater below. This peaceful location is undoubtedly one of Canada’s hidden gems.

Tip: Newfoundland’s iceberg season typically lasts from early June through July. To locate the icebergs, you can utilize the crowdsourced Iceberg Finder, but if you prefer using weather radar over forecasts like I do, check out Environment Canada’s Daily Iceberg Analysis Report for updates.

British Virgin Islands, Caribbean

Chamidae Ford, Associate Writer

I just returned from an incredible five days in the British Virgin Islands (BVI), where I enjoyed island hopping between Tortola, Guana, Anegada, and Cooper Island. My perfect getaway involves swimming every day, and that’s precisely what I did!

I stayed on Guana Island, a private paradise with only one hotel. On my first evening, I swam alone on a secluded beach, experiencing one of the most tranquil moments of my life. I explored several of the island's seven beaches and visited the orchard, tasting fresh fruits like passion fruit, star fruit, and papaya.

In Tortola, I hiked to a pineapple farm and then climbed to a natural spring. Later, I savored cocktails at sunset on Smugglers Cove beach and toured a 200-year-old rum distillery on Tortola, where I sampled their products.

I also spent two days aboard a catamaran, with a highlight being a visit to Conch Island. This unique spot is where fishermen discard the empty conch shells they catch, resembling an art installation. I watched our guide catch a conch and learned how to clean it and prepare ceviche. I even got to toss the empty shell onto the island!

Tip: While many people opt to rent a catamaran and sail around the BVI, be sure to dedicate some time to exploring the islands! You'll find numerous fantastic locally-owned restaurants and shops that are definitely worth a visit.