I'm writing this from London.
It's a Monday. The weather is decent. I'm in one of the most visited cities in the world.
And I can
tell you firsthand. The Americans are not here. That's not a small thing. American tourists are usually everywhere in London. This time it's noticeably different. And if you've been paying attention to what's happening with travel right now, it makes sense.
Here's the deal. Summer 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most expensive times to travel internationally in recent
memory. Fuel costs are up due to ongoing geopolitical tension. Airfare is climbing. And a lot of Americans are quietly making the same calculation. Is this the year to just stay closer to home?
I'm thinking the same thing.
That's not defeat. That's actually a smart move. Because here's what
people forget. The U.S. is enormous. And most of us have barely scratched the surface of it.
So if you're reconsidering international travel this summer, here are a few domestic options worth your time.
Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee.
One of the most visited national parks in the country, and for good reason. Hiking, small mountain towns, and a lot of it is free. Gatlinburg is charming without being pretentious.
Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Garden of the Gods alone is worth the trip. Dramatic
red rock formations you can hike, bike, or just drive through. It looks like another planet and costs almost nothing to explore.
Mackinac Island, Michigan.
No cars allowed on the island. You get around by bike or horse-drawn carriage. It's one of those places that feels genuinely removed from the noise, and most
people have never heard of it.
St. Augustine, Florida.
The oldest city in the country. Spanish forts, cobblestone streets, and a completely different vibe from the rest of Florida. A lot of the historic sites are free or close to it.
Here's the truth.
International travel will always be there. The world is not going anywhere. But this summer in particular, there's a strong case for rediscovering what's already in your backyard. And honestly? Some of the best trips I've ever taken didn't require a passport.
