Choosing where to spend your summer is kind of a big deal, right? We promise there are plenty of options more exciting than lounging on the beach all summer.

Europe. The number of summer study abroad programs in Europe is huge, especially in top destinations like Italy, England, and Spain. Students can take advantage of the summer weather (though they will be confronted with crowds of people from all over the world since summer tends to attract millions of tourists) and see everything that Europe is known for, while taking classes as some of the top universities in the world.

South America. Traveling to South America in the summer time for a study abroad program often means you’ll be combining coursework with service learning projects. Whether helping with conservation in the Galapagos Islands, working with kids in Rio de Janeiro, or contributing to community development in the remote areas of Peru, study abroad in South America will open students’ eyes to a whole new world, quite literally.

Central America. Known for a combination of adventure activities and environmental conservation efforts, studying abroad in Central America during the summer term will surely be exciting and unique. Summer study abroad programs often take students to multiple destinations, allowing them to compare and contrast cultures, economies, and much much more.