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Looking for travel inspiration? Take a peek at these images submitted by SmarterTravel readers during our recent summer vacation photo contest. None won the big prize, but all offer a tantalizing glimpse of the adventures readers get up to while on their world travels.

Reader mhonan submitted this picture of a La Fortuna, Costa Rica, canyoning trip. Rappelling waterfalls seems like a good sign you're on vacation (or that you have an amazing day job).

Exploring

We love this one by JoelSimpson, who submitted Bisti Badlands Buddies. People say that travel is a growth experience, and judging by those long shadows, we'd say they're right.

Exploring

We love this one by JoelSimpson, who submitted Bisti Badlands Buddies. People say that travel is a growth experience, and judging by those long shadows, we'd say they're right.

Diving

Vesma25 captured this wonderfully reflected shot of a dive into Lemolo Lake, noting, "Lemolo Lake was an unexpected, yet so beautiful, stop. Snowy mountains in the background, total silence, and wonderful little houses to stay—beautiful Oregon!" We'll say.

Playing

Reader Nancy Walsh asked of the photo Boys on Folly Beach, "Should they let go of the little brother?" What we want to know is, did they?

Screaming

Proving it was worth the headgear, planetman captured this moment of "Underwater subs at Stuart Cove's, Naussau, Bahamas, [and the] reaction of my wife and daughter to a fantastic adventure!" We only wish we could see what elicited such a priceless reaction.

Floating

CharlotteBell sent us Summer Floating, taken in Laguna Beach, California. Looks like it was a great day out on the water!

Sightseeing

Chicago is a great city for sightseeing, as alist76 proves with the photo My Husband and the Bean. Was deep-dish pizza next on the itinerary? We hope so.

Dancing

Aprils calls this great pic Ballerina at the Beach. We think the pier makes a great stage.

Bouncing

We get all nostalgic for this moment and we weren't even there. Photographer mariahsophia called this one Flying Away on a Summer Day.

Snorkeling

"This photo was taken during a snorkeling session in the Caribbean Sea off the coast of Ocho Rios, Jamaica. The sea cucumber was harmless," wrote Panamajakki. We wish we were there right now.

Walking

All great vacation days eventually come to a close. We think the photo Headed Home, taken by whirlingdorothy, captures it perfectly.

Zooming

Now that's what we call family bonding. Reader ginnewt uploaded this photo, noting, "Crossing off an adventure from my Dad's bucket list."

Savoring

Photographer elgregor said this scene was "my husband enjoying the sunset." Thanks to both of you for sharing the beauty with us!

Kayaking

Lazy Kayaker is what kbailey calls this photo. We bet this kid is going to be rowing circles around everyone in a couple of years.

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