By: Miriam Bribiesca
If your idea of the perfect getaway involves gliding through a serene village where the roads are rivers, or drifting off to sleep in a room surrounded by fish, we’ve got a list that will quench your thirst for adventure. Here are three destinations that will have your friends and family wondering when you traded dry land for all things water. Grab your swim gear or water boots and let’s dive into the coolest floating cities and underwater experiences.
1. Atlantis Sanya, China
Let’s start with a place that’s so over the top that even Poseidon would give it a thumbs up. Seriously! Atlantis Sanya is like stepping into a world where the legend of Atlantis isn’t just a bedtime story but a reality. Located on Hainan Island, AKA China’s Hawaii, Atlantis Sanya is the ultimate underwater adventure that mixes luxury with stunning design and unforgettable views.
Imagine being surrounded by 86,000 marine animals in the largest open-air aquarium in the world. Yes! You read that right. The Ambassador Lagoon is a literal ocean within the resort, and the best part is that you can book a suite where your bedroom walls are glass offering a direct view of its huge aquarium. Talk about an underwater experience! Forget counting sheep to sleep, here you’ll be counting all its fish as you drift to sleep.
At this resort, you can even dine with a view of sharks gliding past your table, but if you’re more hands on, there’s also a dive program that lets you suit up and be one with the fish, no scuba certification required.
Oh, and did we mention there’s also a water park!? Aquaventure has a mix for everyone. From lazy rivers to thrill inducing slides that drop you into shark tanks… in a totally safe and enclosed tube, of course! Need we say more? We didn’t think so.
2. Giethoorn, Netherlands
Who needs roads when you have canals? Now this might be a hot take, but boats are WAY cooler than cars, and no one gets road rage on a canal so it’s a win win.
Giethoorn, known as the “Venice of the North,” is a charming village in the Netherlands where the streets are made of water and the only horns you’ll hear are from swans, not drivers. FINALLY!
What makes Giethoorn truly unique is its vibe. This floating city is built on a series of small canals that crisscross through the cutest little houses straight out of a movie scene. Unlike Venice, Giethoorn feels like stepping into a postcard where time moves a little slower, and every corner is a photo op waiting to happen. We recommend you rent a whisper boat (named as such because they’re quiet and eco-friendly) and glide past gardens and homes that look like they’ve been plucked straight from a fairy tale.The best part though? There’s zero pollution and the entire village is pedestrian-friendly, which means it’s perfect for a relaxing, stress free getaway.
While you’re there, be sure to check out the Museum Giethoorn ’t Olde Maat Uus for a peek into the village’s history and the lives of its early settlers. And If you’re a nature enthusiast (which we know you are), rent a bike and explore De Weerribben-Wieden National Park.
Lastly, we recommend visiting in the off-season which is April or September to avoid the tourist crowds. Also, try the local delicacy, “pannenkoeken” (Dutch pancakes) at one of the charming canal-side cafes. They’re like crepes, but with a Dutch twist. Think bacon, apples, and cheese. YUM!
3. Cebu, Philippines
Just because life as a student requires a good itinerary that is budget friendly doesn’t mean you can’t have an unforgettable underwater experience. In fact, look no further than Cebu in the Philippines to make it happen. This island is a hotspot for diving and snorkeling, and offers some of the best and most affordable marine life encounters without the hefty price tag.
Cebu is famous for having some of the most accessible and affordable diving cites located in Moalboal. Here, you can experience the incredible “Sardine Run,” where millions of sardines move in unison, creating mesmerizing patterns in the water. It’s a natural spectacle that feels like being inside an ever-shifting underwater art installation. And you don’t need to be a certified diver to enjoy it—just grab some snorkeling gear and jump in!
If you’re feeling bold, another must visit spot in Cebu is the nearby island of Malapascua, renowned for its regular sightings of thresher sharks. While diving with sharks might sound like something out of a James Bond movie, thresher sharks are like the little dog in your neighborhood, all bark but not bite. Plus this thrilling experience is guided by a professional diver who will ensure you come back in one piece, just maybe don’t tell your parents about this one.
Of course, the fun doesn’t stop there. Once you’re done underwater, make sure to explore Cebu’s waterfalls, like Kawasan Falls. And obviously, don’t miss out on the local street food scene where you can try the famous lechon (roast pig) or some fresh seafood straight from the grill.
Whether you’re planning a post-finals escape or just dreaming of your next adventure, grab your passport, pack your swimsuit, and snatch our exclusive student deals to dive into the adventure of a lifetime. Your aquatic dream destination is waiting, and trust us, the water’s more than fine.
