International Dog Day is celebrated on August 26, honouring the companionship and loyalty dogs provide. A pet-cation could be the perfect way to return that love with an unforgettable adventure. According to Booking.com, half (50%) of Indian travellers dreaming of a nature trip for their next vacation, your four-legged best friend could be the ideal companion. With the intent to make it easier for everyone and their pooches to experience the world, we are suggesting some of the destinations that welcome you and your pets.
Puducherry, India
This enchanting French-inspired town in South India is a must-visit for a relaxing and indulgent vacation for you and your pet. This town boasts tranquil beaches, lush parks, beautiful gardens, and pet-friendly cafes as well as off-the-beaten-path attractions that are dog-friendly and loved by locals making it the ideal destination to enjoy with your furry companion. Bask in the sun at Serene Beach with its mesmerizing white sands or immerse yourself in nature’s beauty with a stroll through Bharathi Park, a serene green space perfect for relaxation. Don’t forget to explore the local markets to discover unique souvenirs to celebrate your trip.
Budapest, Hungary
With plenty of attractions and open spaces, Budapest is an attractive destination for dog owners. Travellers and their four-legged friends can enjoy a stroll in Hungary’s capital along the famous River Danube. Arrive at the Chain Bridge and cross over to the district of Buda to walk around the beautiful hills that offer breathtaking views of Pest, along with the famous Hungarian Parliament Building with its dome reminiscent of Florence’s iconic Il Duomo. Cat owners will also find a welcome for their pets in the cat cafes dotted around the city where they can indulge in the Budapest institution of coffee and cake. If travellers are feeling in need of cleansing afterward, they can visit the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of the largest outdoor thermal baths in Europe.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, USA
With 60 miles of South Carolina coastline, Myrtle Beach is a magnet for sun worshippers, food lovers, and anyone looking for some chilled R&R. And that includes pets. From Labor Day (September 2) through to April 30, dogs are allowed on the beaches at any time of the day. They can also enjoy the famous 1.2-mile Ocean Boardwalk and Promenade that runs through the sands of Myrtle Beach. A big favourite among locals and visitors, the Boardwalk offers oceanfront views of the beach with its many shops and restaurants. Myrtle Beach has become a foodies’ paradise with more than 2,000 restaurants offering a huge range of styles, many of which welcome pets. For more animal-friendly attractions, travellers can visit Myrtle Beach State Park, Apache Pier, and Huntington Beach State Park.
Windermere, Lake District, UK
The Lake District is one of the UK’s most popular destinations, attracting millions of visitors every year. And many of them bring their dogs. With miles upon miles of countryside, fells, and mountains surrounding England’s most famous lakes, such as Windermere, Coniston Water, and Ullswater, this National Park is a haven for nature lovers, walkers, and pet owners. Whatever kind of vacation they’re looking for here, visitors can be assured there is plenty of beautiful countryside to walk with their dogs. Many of the area’s many cafes provide a warm welcome for dogs, so while travellers are enjoying a reviving drink or meal, their four-legged walking companions can lap up some downtime too.
Soldiers Point, Australia
A peninsula on the southern shores of Port Stephens, Soldiers Point boasts a number of attractions ideal for dog walking. Many of the local caravan parks, public parks, and beaches such as Bagnalls Beach, welcome pooches, and there are dog-friendly cafes on offer too, making it easy for both traveller and pet to enjoy a well-deserved meal. With this picturesque destination famed for its beautiful sunsets, visitors and their pets can choose their spot to sit and watch the changing evening skies together. It is also a popular draw for fishing and boating visitors who can enjoy a spectacular time at sea on the Three-hour Whale-watching Cruise at Port Stephens, where they are likely to catch sight of humpback whales, dolphins, and plenty of seabirds.
