Europe comes alive in July and there are loads of excellent outdoor festivals to cater to every taste. If golf is your thing, catch The Open, which takes places at the Royal Troon Golf Club.

London in the summertime is highly recommended and with the British Grand Prix taking place up the road at Silverstone, now’s the time to book your visit. If the idea of strawberries and cream appeals to you, the highlight of the tennis calendar, Wimbledon, reaches its climax on 15 July.

If staring up at the sky is what you’re after, look no further than our own backyard. Book a flight to Cape Town and take a drive to Sutherland, where some of the best stargazing can be done – as proven by the presence of the Southern African Large Telescope, which is open for tours. Sutherland is also known as the coldest place in the country, so stay in one of the town’s cosy cottages that has a fireplace to keep you warm. Italy, awaken your senses to cuisine that is as much about presentation as it is about enjoyment. A land where eating well is living well and breaking bread and sipping on wine are occasions to come together and celebrate life.

To take a trip to Italy is to be transported back in time to the genius of Michelangelo, Botticeli and da Vinci. Miami, home of sun-kissed beaches and sparkling waters, where bronzed bodies languish on loungers and celebrate at swanky parties.

The 4 th July, Independence Day celebrations culminate in fireworks displays and dancing the night away to the tinkling of glasses and joyous laughter. Whether you look forward to early morning strolls along the beach front or walking trails of Oleta River State Park, Miami has whatever you need for the holiday of your dreams. Knysna, in the Western Cape along the Garden Route, is exquisitely beautiful with ancient forests and a breath-taking lagoon. For a relaxing and rejuvenation break in nature, you will find this friendly and relaxing town just perfect.