Sunshine and blue skiesâthat's the standard formula for the perfect vacation. But what if we told you that some of the most breathtaking and unforgettable places on Earth reveal their beauty not in spite of the rain, but because of it? Rain doesn't have to be a vacation-killer; in these destinations, it's the main attraction, the paintbrush that colors the landscapes, and the source of their unique atmosphere.
Pack your raincoat and open your mind to a different kind of travel. Here are 10 destinations that prove liquid sunshine can be just as magical.
Bergen is statistically one of the rainiest cities in Europe. But instead of complaining, the locals have perfected the art of "hygge" or "GemĂŒtlichkeit." The rain washes the colorful wooden houses of the Bryggen district, making them shine in rich colors. There's nothing better than sitting in a warm cafĂ©, enjoying a cinnamon bun, and listening to the patter of rain on the cobblestones.
Can you imagine the Scottish Highlands without low-hanging clouds, misty glens, and a fine drizzle? The rain is the reason for the mystical, wildly romantic beauty of this landscape. It nourishes the heather, fills the mysterious lochs, and shrouds ancient castles in an aura of mystery. A hike through the rainy Highlands, followed by a warming whisky by the fireplace, is an unforgettable experience.
Mount Waialeale on Kauai is one of the wettest spots on Earth. This extreme rainfall is why the island is nicknamed the "Garden Isle." It has carved the spectacular NÄ Pali Coast, feeds countless waterfalls, and nurtures one of the most lush rainforests in the world. On Kauai, the rain is the lifeblood that creates this tropical paradise.
A trip to Costa Rica during the "green season" (rainy season from May to November) is an insider tip. The landscape explodes in rich green, the tourist crowds are smaller, and prices are lower. The afternoon showers are often short but intense and refreshing. Experiencing the jungle in the rainâthe sounds, the smells, the lifeâis an incredibly immersive experience.
Milford Sound is most spectacular in rainy weather. Every downpour causes hundreds of temporary waterfalls to cascade from the steep cliffs of the fjord. The landscape becomes dramatic, shrouded in mist, and feels even wilder and more untouched. A boat tour during or just after a rain shower is a breathtaking experience.
Vancouverites affectionately call their city "Raincouver." The damp climate ensures mild winters and lush green parks, like the famous Stanley Park, right in the city. The city is perfectly adapted to rain: there's a thriving café culture, fantastic museums, and an excellent culinary scene to enjoy on wet days.
A trip to Kerala during the monsoon season is an experience for all the senses. The rain here is not a drizzle, but a powerful, life-giving force. The landscape shines in vibrant green, the rivers and backwaters fill up, and the air is pure and fresh. It's the best time for Ayurvedic treatments, as the body is said to absorb the oils better in the humid climate.
The mountainous regions of China's Fujian province, famous for their oolong tea, are often shrouded in mist and drizzle. This humid climate is ideal for tea cultivation and creates an incredibly poetic and meditative landscape. A hike through the mist-covered tea terraces is like walking through a traditional Chinese ink painting.
While most people think of Spain as sun and dry heat, the northwestern region of Galicia is the exact opposite. The Atlantic climate brings frequent rain and a landscape that is more reminiscent of Ireland than Andalusia. The reward: lush green hills, wild coasts, and the best seafood in Spain. Santiago de Compostela in the rain has a special, spiritual atmosphere.
The Irish west coast is the epitome of rugged beauty. The constant rain and wind from the Atlantic have shaped a dramatic landscape of steep cliffs, green meadows, and rocky shores. An Irish "soft day" (a day with fine drizzle) is perfect for experiencing the cozy pub culture and warming up with traditional music and a pint of Guinness.
Rain doesn't have to be a reason to cancel a vacation. In these places, it's an essential part of the experience. It creates atmosphere, nourishes nature, and invites a different kind of travelâslower, more mindful, and often cozier. Perhaps it's time to see the umbrella not as an emergency tool, but as a ticket to a whole new adventure.