Anywhere in the world, what is the best place to go at the end of May/early June

Peru, Alaska, Bavaria

Both of you thanks! These are exactly the suggestions I am looking for

Just go back from Slovenia, it was epic and easily earned a slot among the elite revered pantheon of my favorite countries trodden, to-date.

That said, I think it’s probably a bit better second half of June - the Alpine climate has had just that much longer to warm up.

End May/early June is perfect for Southern Europe - Greek islands, Portugal, Southern Spain, Sicily et al, IMHO - most countries on either side of the pond are still in school, spring foliage is still in bloom, the weather is warm-to-hot, but not unbearable and the sea chilly but refreshing and those in tourism/hospitality are at their freshest and most eager as the peak season approaches, rather than overworked and over it on the other shoulder season (mid September onwards).

Thanks! Did you fly into Athens and then ferry to islands or fly?

British Airways has a flight from Heathrow to Santorini. So if you are flying out of an airport with one of the british airway direct to London flights then that is the easiest way. Most of the other routes are Via Dallas or Atlanta to Athens to Santorini. You can fly into Athens and take of the Jet Boats but I believe it is about a 4 hours boat ride. I would not really suggest that. I also do not know if you need to see multiple islands. I also very much suggest renting a car on the island and exploring it that way.

everyone thank you so much

Tanzania

While I agree that Greece is great that time of year, I would do a trip that focuses more on maximizing miles based on your post. Greece can still be affordable without Miles. Same thing with Slovenia.

Something like a combo trip between Singapore and the Maldives with an overwater bungalow. Fly Singapore suites first class and use Marriott points to book a Maldives resort that would otherwise cost 20k.

New Zealand/Australia are transitioning to winter at that point, but another good idea for max point value.

You could also do an epic Japan trip by combining two regions. Fly ANA first class, stay in park hyatts in great locations, etc.

Just circling back to circle jerk Slovenia again.

Sitting here scrolling through all the pics and vids of our time there, daydreaming about going back.

It might’ve bit me harder than Greece & Portgual (which are recent favored mistresses to my OG loves Spain & Italy) - indeed the hearty, yet also refined cuisine, the trendy avant-garde wine scene (they’re on to of the orange wine game if that’s your bag), the charming cities err city and towns, the stunning nature - mountains, forests, rivers, lakes, caves and gorges galore.

The crossroads and venn-diagram of cultural influences - Austro-Hungarian, Alpine, Slavic, Balkan, Italian, Yugoslavian - how this is reflected on the lovely people…

quote:

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Slovenia
What do you think it would be like to live there for a year or so?

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Hell, I would! Wife (no pics)..Hard time getting her to go back even though we all loved it.

Everything’s beautifully compact, from alpine trails to seaside escapes, and the people value balance and civility. Ljubljana’s green and walkable vibe makes day-to-day living feel effortless, while the food reflects a fusion of nearby cultures—Italian, Balkan, Hungarian.

It’s got solid infrastructure, surprisingly creative energy tucked into medieval corners, and easy access to outdoor adventures. The seasons bring variety, and traditions are strong but welcoming.

Overall, it feels like the kind of place where I could really settle in, get close to the land and culture, and enjoy a slower, more intentional pace. Particularly around Kobarid. Now, I have not visited a number of areas of the country yet, but I sure would!