If you are anything like our team of intrepid Travel Curator writers and editors, you are already thinking about your 2025 travel plans. Where to go? What to see, do? Where to stay, dine, spa? Certainly we have been living and breathing next-year’s adventures — for months now — spending time on the ground and in the air (also on the rails and at sea), exploring, discerning, and, of course, curating. Unearthing the next-best places, while still holding space for the hotels and destinations we’ve long known and loved is what we do best. Following, we unveil our top travel destinations for 2025. Some of the reveals you may already know and cherish (did someone say Italy?). While some are perhaps lesser traveled (i.e. Cartagena and Bolivia); and still others offer a slightly different take on a classic (i.e. immersing with rescue elephants in Thailand; taking a walk on the spiritual side in Portugal).
Where will you jet off to in 2025? Consider one of the incredible destinations on our curated list or even some of the very special places (i.e. North Carolina) hit hard by natural disasters this year, but already making their recovery and welcoming guests back. Wherever your travels take you, be sure to tag us in your photos. Happy traveling.
Italy
La Dolce Vita Orient Express
Better than a murder mystery party a la Agatha Christie, you can now board the bonafide, utterly reimagined La Dolce Vita Orient Express, a stunning new locomotive launching in spring 2025. A collaboration of various entities including Trenitalia, Arsenale, and Accor, the luxurious train conjures Federico Fellini glam and sybaritic bygone opulence in its 31 silver screen-worthy cabins and suites. The long-awaited railroad adventure will choo choo through eight unique itineraries in Italy, embracing less explored locations including Palena in Abruzzo (known for its medieval architecture) and Matera in Basilicata, the third oldest city in the world. — Becca Hensley
Sardinia
Called the Caribbean of the Mediterranean for its crystal clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, the Italian island has long been known to European tourists and is just starting to get on North Americans’ radar. While the blingy Costa Smeralda gets busy, there are more and more alternatives that have the same beauty without all the bustle. Opened in 2024, the family-owned Le Dune Piscinas is surrounded by the dunes of the island’s southeastern Costa Verde and stands out for its culinary program curated by Michelin-starred chef Fabio Ciervo. Also owned by a local family, the Delphina collection of resorts along the north coast includes some standouts, such as the romantic Capo d’Orso, which is a short boat right from Porto Cervo but a quiet retreat on its own. — Ann Abel
The Dolomites
The jagged peaks in the northeastern, German-speaking part of Italy have long been home to some of the world’s best skiing and hiking. Now things are heating up in advance of the 2026 Winter Olympics, for which Cortina d’Ampezzo will be one of the host cities. The storied Rosa Alpina hotel is about to emerge from a major renovation as an Aman Resort, and other new places to stay include the gorgeously resorted Castel Hörtenberg in Bolzano and the brand-new, 19th-century gem Steinach Townhouse brought back to life in the historic center of Merano. On the culinary front, chef Norbert Niederkofler’s latest restaurant, Atelier Moessmer, earned three Michelin stars right out of the gate last year. — Ann Abel
Capri
The epitome of la dolce vita and high-glam couture, this picturesque isle off the Amalfi Coast is not for the faint of heart. Capri is all about walking (uphill and down). After being dropped at the pedestrian-only palazzo, follow the twisty cobblestone streets past rows of designer boutiques (Gucci, Prada, Dolce&Gabbana) and walls of bougainvillea to the island’s inner sanctuary: the five-star Punta Tragara, originally built as a private home. Set high on a cliff overlooking the sea, the now 38-room hotel (still owned by the Manfredi family), is home to a Michelin restaurant, sweet spa (we love the Italian INSÌUM products), art-deco style furnishings, and terraced suites. For the ultimate stay, reserve the recently renovated, two-story Art Suite, offering unequivocal views of the sea and Faraglioni rocks — from the deep-soaking tub and even more dreamily, from the bed. — Shari Mycek
Milan
The undisputed capital of Italian fashion and design, Milan continues to cement its status as a hub for luxury travelers. With the iconic Duomo and high-end shopping districts just steps away, the Bulgari Hotel remains a favorite for those looking to immerse themselves in the city’s chic atmosphere. Recent additions to Milan’s luxury hotel scene include the stunning Casa Cipriani, offering an intimate yet glamorous stay near the financial district, and Portrait Milano, located in the historic Corso Venezia. Both hotels provide exceptional service, exquisite design, and proximity to Milan’s cultural landmarks and exclusive boutiques, ensuring that even the most discerning travelers are catered to in true Milanese style. — Deanne Kaczerski
Lake Garda
Lake Garda, Italy’s largest and perhaps most serene lake, is a destination where dramatic mountains meet tranquil waters, offering visitors a perfect mix of natural beauty and laid-back Italian charm. Known for its idyllic villages, olive groves, and historic towns, the region is a haven for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. At the heart of this paradise is the Lafay Resort & Spa, a superb luxury retreat offering a world-class wellness experience. With an expansive spa, several outdoor and indoor pools (many heated), Michelin-starred dining, and panoramic views, LaFay is the ultimate escape for those looking to recharge. Opt for one of their exclusive Sky Suites offering multi-room living, personal sauna, and terrace with hot tub overlooking the lake. It’s the sort of place where wearing a bathrobe to breakfast is encouraged. — Deanne Kaczerski
Venice
Yes, there are tourists; day trippers snaking in single file behind flag-waving tour guides. But go anyway. Because this pretty, more than 1,000-year-old city, with its 100 small islands, 150 canals, and magnificent palaces and piazzas, is still worth traveling for. The secret lies in expertly and luxuriously navigating it. Start with a private, captained, teak (with leather interior) water taxi from the airport (don your giant shades and vintage scarf) to Palazzo Garzoni, a restored 15th-century villa on the Grand Canal. Each of the four lavish apartments comes with original artwork, modish furniture, canal views, personal butler, and gourmet kitchen with pre-stocked Smeg refrigerator. More VIP decadence awaits at The Gritti Palace, The St. Regis Venice, or the city’s most recent newcomers, Nolinski Venezia by the French group, EVOK or Violino D’Oro, featuring Venetian blown glass and cocktails culled from Venetian gin. — Shari Mycek
Verona
A short drive from Lake Garda, Verona, Italy’s city of romance, sweeps visitors off their feet with a its historic charm. Known for its ancient Roman amphitheater and Juliet’s balcony (don’t forget to grab her bronze boob for luck), Verona is as much about style as it is about story. Stroll down Via Mazzini to indulge in designer boutiques and artisanal finds, or take a pause at Piazza delle Erbe for a perfect morning espresso with a side of people-watching. For dinner, expect rustic dishes like risotto all’Amarone and hearty polenta, served with just the right amount of Italian flair. After a day of exploring, retreat to one of several luxurious five-star gems in the heart of Verona, including Hotel Due Torri, Vista Verona, and Hotel NH Collection Palazzo Verona. It’s a city where every corner feels cinematic — and a bit like it’s flirting with you. — Deanne Kaczerski
Greek Cyclades Islands
Millions of tourists visit Greece each year — and most of them hightail it to the Cyclades. Already popular — but only getting more so — (read: go off season/shoulder season, ideally avoiding the summer mobs), this group of islands lie near-ish Athens, just a short flight or ferry ride from the city. Quintessentially mirroring what your imagination assigns to Greece, the islands share a common architecture: whitewashed walls and sky-blue rooftops. Cobblestoned streets connect neighborhoods. Bougainvillea grows profusely. Blue-painted doors welcome you as kin. The food rivals none — all fresh caught, locally grown, and in-house cooked — usually with a grandma’s recipe. The wine, potent and delicious, delights. The sea spreads out to the horizon in shades of cobalt, purple, and emerald. Yet, each Cyclades island varies immensely. From party-hearty Mykonos to sunset lovers’ hilly Santorini; from earthier Paros with its undercurrent of hippie vibe to family friendly Naxos. Think: Ios, Sifnos, Antiparos, Andros, Tinos, and beyond. Travel between the islands tends to be easy, but wherever you go, you’ll find it hard to leave to explore a new place. — Becca Hensley
Bodrum, Turkey
No longer an under-the-radar destination at the edge of the Mediterranean, Bodrum is coming into its own as a jet-set destination. Mykonos’ popular beach club Scorpios opened an outpost here last year, in the splashy new Maxx Royal resort, and more and more luxury hotels are opening, including an outpost of the highly animated Hyde brand, which made its name in party places like Ibiza, Miami, and Dubai. Meanwhile, food lovers can find much to enjoy, now that several of the city’s restaurants are honored in the Michelin guide, and the new Ayla restaurant at the storied Macakizi resort clearly aims to join them soon. — Ann Abel
Bavaria, Germany
There’s more to Bavaria than Oktoberfest. With castles, half-timbered houses in storybook villages, mountain trails edged by red-dotted fairytale mushrooms, beer, and pretzels aplenty — and yes, some inhabitants wearing lederhosen for special occasions, the mountain-studded state in southern Germany has been compared to Texas for its swagger and boldly independent spirit. With crystalline lakes and flecks of meadows, it caters to outdoorsy travelers who ski in winter and hike (or bike) in summer. With a long-established herbal wellness tradition, Bavaria also holds acclaimed spa towns such as Bad Wörishofen and Bad Reichenhall. Take a “kur” the upscale way at Schloss Elmau, an oasis with six unique spas, world-class gastronomy, and regal rooms and suites. — Becca Hensley
Africa
Zambia
Some say it’s Africa’s best kept secret. Landlocked Zambia, home to prodigious bodies of water, including incomparable Victoria Falls, gets accolades for its copious elephant population and as the birthplace of the walking safari. The smaller south African country offers fewer crowds, unspoiled wilderness, rich history, diverse wildlife, and easy access to neighboring countries, including Botswana and Tanzania. A favorite of in-the-know safari outfitters like Micato Safaris, Zambia draws travelers on their second or third foray to the bush, but easily exceeds the expectation of first-time safari goers. “It has established game reserves and lodges that are less well known outside of Africa but are iconic within,” points out Brian Nel, a safari director with Micato Safaris. — Becca Hensley
Botswana
Relatively stable and prosperous, Botswana has long been known as a luxury leader for (photographic) safaris, thanks to its commitment to low-volume, high-value tourism and strict rules that keep camps small and sustainable. One of its tourism pioneers is the locally owned Desert & Delta Safaris, whose iconic Chobe Game Lodge celebrated its 50th birthday last year. The outfitter has two newly redone properties: Savute Safari Lodge just emerged from a complete refurb with 11 massive suites, and the Tsodilo Hills Sleep-Out Camp is an extension of Nxamaseri Island Lodge. And in 2025, Xugana Lodge will also debut a new look in the Okavango Delta. — Ann Abel
Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic may be famous for its white-sand beaches and clear waters, but it’s quickly gaining a new reputation for luxe experiences that redefine Caribbean elegance. The D.R. hasn’t always been at the forefront of Caribbean luxury but that is changing with several five-star properties opening there over the next few years. At the exclusive ÀNI Dominican Republic, a private peninsula, guests enjoy an all-inclusive sanctuary where every detail — from the infinity pools to the gourmet cuisine — is curated to perfection. And with the renowned Amanera already offering its signature blend of serenity and sophistication, the island has become a haven for those seeking a Caribbean escape. With its party-hard days in the dust, the Dominican Republic has officially graduated to the Caribbean’s most sophisticated hideaway. — Deanne Kaczerski
Menorca
Menorca may be Mallorca’s quieter sibling, but it’s proving that subtlety is the new luxury. The island’s top-tier escapes, like the effortlessly chic Hotel Torralbenc with its sprawling vineyards and farm-to-table dining, are redefining Balearic experiences. Meanwhile, Fontenille Menorca offers two distinct properties — Santa Ponsa, a historic estate with lush gardens, and Torre Vella, an architectural gem with infinity pools overlooking the countryside. Menorca isn’t here to show off, but trust us, it doesn’t need to. — Deanne Kaczerski
Machu Picchu, Peru
On everybody’s list, Machu Picchu spellbinds as a mysteriously ancient Incan citadel, anchored in Peru’s Andes. Incredibly, it attracts some 15 million visitors a year, numbers that have wreaked havoc in ongoing efforts to safeguard and preserve it. Return visitors may have noticed tighter controls, time limits, and closures — needed restraints to preserve the monument. But experts believe the crowds (and possibly the restrictions) will only get worse when the long-awaited Aeropuerto Internacional de Chinchero opens in 2026, a portal that will allow travelers to fly directly to the region from various nations. (At this time most tourists fly into Cusco on domestic flights, then hike the Inca Trail or take the vintage-style trains to visit the World Heritage site.) Go now to beat future throngs. — Becca Hensley
Moskito Island, British Virgin Islands
Toiny Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands has long been known as billionaire Sir Richard Branson’s personal retreat. But many may not be aware that the Virgin mogul quietly purchased another private island nearby — Moskito Island. Unlike at Necker, Branson sold off nine plots of land on Moskito Island for others to build their dream beach homes. While most of the houses are occupied solely by their owners, several are now available to rent via Moskito Island Estates (owned by the Moskito Homeowners Association): the Oasis Estate, an all-glass marvel set on the island’s highest point; The Point Estate, featuring eight bedrooms, a travel-inspired design, infinity pool, and direct access to the communal Manchioneel BeachEstate, and (new on the market) Cape Stout Estate, located on the island’s dramatic northern tip, offering eight suites, a canal-style pool running through the ground floor, a network of terraces perfect for sunrise and sunset, and a 60-foot wall mural by Judith Belzer. Branson’s Estate (featuring two villas with private pools, and a two-story main house) remains available for rent via Virgin Limited Edition. There are no restaurants on the island, just private chefs and always-flowing Champagne. But there is a ring-tailed lemur colony. — Shari Mycek
Kyushu, Japan
The tourism crush in Japan is a real thing, with top draws Tokyo and Kyoto bogged down by record numbers of foreign visitors. Fear not because quieter escapes can be found elsewhere across the country, including Kyushu, one of Japan’s four main islands. Hiking, cycling, and forest bathing come to the forefront here, not to mention incredible culinary exploration, and you can do it in style with an array of new hotel options including the Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka, the Marriott Nagasaki, and the Ureshino Yadoya, an onsen and inn where each of its 36 rooms have flowing hot spring waters. Oh, and the region is the heart of Japan’s shochu production. Drink up — Kanpai! — Jake Emen
Shanghai, China
Literally divided by the Huangpu River into two districts: the Pudong and the Puxi, Shanghai (home of the 2025 F1 China Grand Prix), is the perfect fusion of futuristic and old world. While the Pudong side and skyline (which looks like the backdrop of a sci-fi film) beckons savvy travelers with its plethora of Michelin-star restaurants, high-end fashion houses, and ultra-luxe hotels, Old Shanghai (on the Puxi side) still speaks of eclectic architecture, colorful fabric markets, and dumpling houses. One of the most luxurious stays comes at The Peninsula Shanghai, located on the Bund (waterfront historic district) and renowned for its Art Deco-inspired interiors. Partake in the hotel’s coveted Peninsula Academy, matching guests one-on-one with world-renowned designer, Lu Kun (a.k.a. “The Chinese Galliano”), to see firsthand and discuss his most iconic creations. — Shari Mycek
Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena captures the idea that a destination, a place, can be sultry. Sure, the weather is humid, even steamy, but the conditions combine with the vibrant colors, the bold flavors, and of course, the beautiful Caribbean seas, to deliver a visceral sensation for visitors. Cartagena’s old town, the historical quarters of El Centro and San Diego, are as preserved and picturesque as you’ll find in Latin America, giving a more well trodden locale such as Old San Juan a serious run for its money. Stay at a local-centric boutique hotel that puts you in the heart of the action, such as the Townhouse Boutique Hotel, and consider tacking on a trip to a nearby island for a dreamy, sexy escape, such as Blue Apple Beach. — Jake Emen
Bali, Indonesia
For unequivocally epic landscapes, singular culture, extraordinary food, and so many lush luxury resorts that it’s hard to choose (Aman, Four Seasons, Bulgari, Raffles, Capella), there is nowhere in the world like Bali. The Indonesian island, known for its countless Hindu temples and year-round tropical temps, is appealing to travelers harboring many different interests from birding to temple trekking to the world’s best massages. The Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan, where Julia Roberts stayed when filming Eat Pray Love (15 years old in 2025) just revealed its brand-new Sacred River Spa, with an emphasis on biogeometric energy healing, and it’s honestly as compelling a reason as any to make the trip halfway across the globe. Additional motives span both jungle and beach environs and include the fall 2024 debut of Anantara Ubud and forthcoming seaside Regent Bali Canggu. — Kathryn Romeyn
North Carolina, USA
Yes, North Carolina’s landscape is picture perfect, from the sapphire-hued Blue Ridge Mountains to miles of golden Atlantic beaches. But what’s got people talking about the Tar Heel state are the new and varied ways to experience it. Start on the Outer Banks, where the just-opened Jonathan Adler-designed Edgecamp Pamlico Station offers curated beach adventures like dune buggy rides over the dunes along with on-demand saunas, cold plunge and other wellness offerings. In the mountains, Relais & Chateaux members The Swag and Cataloochee Ranch pair luxurious lodging and fine dining with guided hikes and horseback excursions into the adjacent Great Smoky Mountains National Park. — Katie McElveen
Montego Bay, Jamaica
Coined “Mo-bay” by locals, Montego Bay is hardly a new destination. This second largest city in Jamaica has served as a backdrop for the James Bond film, Live or Let Die, and Cocktails, starring Tom Cruise. So why now does this Caribbean isle make our go-to list? One reason really: The Tryall Club. Set along verdant, rolling hills and private shoreline, Tryall’s incredible collection of 93 privately owned villas (74 are available for rent) and fully staffed villas caught our eye. A new restaurant, Ooshan, is soon to open, and we are loving the new spa featuring Bamford (UK) and JACANA (organic Jamaican) treatments. Another perk: 2025 will see the launch by Virgin Atlantic of direct, daily service from Toronto to Montego Bay, while Sun Country Airlines is set to host winter (late January to early April) flights to Montego Bay from Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport. — Shari Mycek
Riviera Maya, Mexico
Riviera Maya has moved beyond spring break clichés to become the pinnacle of Mexico’s luxury beach scene. With heavy hitters like Rosewood Mayakoba offering a truly unparalleled experience with lagoon views and private plunge pools, and the tranquil Banyan Tree Mayakoba (opt for a private villa; you will not be disappointed) bringing Asian-inspired elegance to Mexico’s shores, it’s a playground for those who prefer their paradise without the crowds. The new The Riviera Maya Edition at Kanai ups the ante with its modern edge and incredible pool and beach club vibes, while Grand Velas serves unparalleled all-inclusive luxury with a side of Michelin-worthy cuisine. For something more intimate, La Casa de la Playa offers beachfront suites and over-the-top amenities in a boutique setting with an infinity pool you won’t find anywhere else (it’s worth a visit just for the photo!). Riviera Maya is officially the place to trade margarita pitchers for mezcal tastings — and do it in style and comfort. — Deanne Kaczerski
Baltic Sea Islands
Long before “cool-cations” became a thing, the best-known islands of the Baltic Sea — Sweden’s Gotland and Denmark’s Bornholm — exuded their own kind of soft-focus Kinfolk magazine cool. (And yes, both have attracted a growing number of transplants in search of climate resilience.) There are all sorts of novelties, such as the new Restaurang Apotek in the capital of Visby, and significant makeovers of the island’s top small hotels, Furillen and Grå Gåsen. And on Bornholm, the Michelin-starred new Nordic restaurant Kadeau has become a partner in the gorgeous, tented Eco Beach Camp for dinner guests (or anyone else) who want to stay the night. — Ann Abel
California Wine Country, USA
There’s more to Napa Valley than its world-famous wine. Think: extravagant accommodations, indulgence in every form, sensational cuisine, and activities that suit romantic escapes or fun-filled friend getaways. If you have but one place to stay, make it the Four Seasons Resort & Residences Napa Valley in Calistoga. The property takes the shape of a charming neighborhood, and your happy little community includes the swanky Talisa Spa, Michelin-starred dining at Auro, and a functional on-site winery, Elusa. But don’t shortchange Sonoma either. Head to quaint Healdsburg and stay at the Montage Healdsburg for an indulgent retreat amid the vineyards, or the Madrona, a 24-room property featuring bungalows and eight guest accommodations within a historic manor. — Jake Emen
Rural Portugal
Lisbon and Porto may be groaning under the weight of poorly managed tourism, but many parts of the country’s countryside are still ripe for discovery, with new luxury hotels that make them more appealing than ever. In the Alentejo, the new Quinta do Paral landed in Leading Hotels of the World even before it opened, bringing a big dose of luxury to the wine region around Vidigueira, a center of amphora wines. In the mountainous interior of the southern Algarve region, the glam new Viceroy at Ombria Algarve is a 76-room sanctuary away from the busy beach resorts. And the Azores islands are continuing to ramp up their offerings, with projects ranging from Europe’s largest collection of the spirit at the Gin Library on the green island São Miguel and the new surf-centric Fajã do Belo on the wild São Jorge. — Ann Abel
The Camino Santiago Trail
If you’ve been waiting to walk the well-worn trail(s) to the sacred Spanish city of Santiago de Compostela because the trek seemed too rough or time consuming: think again. Once the realm of cheap hostelries, camping, and sleeping in churches, the various paths now offer some alternative lodging. Culturally sensitive hotel brands such as Relais & Chateaux and InterContinental coddle weary pilgrims who prefer a five-star respite along the way — something that likely didn’t exist when pilgrims began their slog a millennium ago. The fact that first-rate outfitters (such as Backroads) guide guests on shorter itineraries (also conveying your luggage), and that many worldwide guests choose to do the Camino piecemeal (returning each year for a different segment), ensures that the spiritual trudge has never been as appealing. Whether going for physical, emotional, or spiritual transformation, consider walking the lesser-tread Portuguese Camino, paths that wend from Porto to Santiago de Compostela, passing along the coast northward through vineyards, farmlands, woodlands and historic villages. — Becca Hensley
Northern Thailand
For too long elephants were abused in Thailand, but in the northernmost realms, hotel brands like Anantara and Four Seasons have joined together to protect rescued elephants, operating their boutique-ly unique hotels on a shared elephant preserve where guests can interact with the precious pachyderms, learning about them, feeding them, bathing them — even walking alongside them. Poised in far northern Thailand, side-by-side, the upscale eco-resorts, under the tutelage of conservation experts and first-class hoteliers, support cultural immersive experiences and animal rights, even as they pamper guests. Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, with local artwork and indigenously inspired architecture, offers unforgettable moments such as nights spent in a see-through jungle bubble room where you observe elephants from dusk to dawn and Canopy, a treetop dining experience with elephants in view. Next door, Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, whimsically designed to summon the explorers’ era, holds 16 bungalows that overlook the Ruak River. Together the retreats maintain the sanctuary with heedful responsibility. — Becca Hensley
Slovenia
The rising star Slovenia is always a good idea, but especially in 2025. That’s when the western town of Nova Gorica will be half of the cross-border European Capital of Culture, along with Gorizia on the Italian side. Slovenian travel designer, Ursula Kordis of Wanderlux Journeys, says the city will prepare a year-round cultural program of concerts by international stars, food festivals, and interdisciplinary performances — but it’s also an excellent jumping-off point for the Brda wine country or the up-and-coming Vipava valley, where Kordis’s clients stay in a forest village at Theodosius and dine at one of the first Michelin-starred restaurants in the country, Zemono. — Ann Abel
Estonia
Another under-the-radar corner of Europe, Estonia is also poised to shine. Its capital, Tallinn, will be the European Capital of Sport in 2025, and it’s always a nice place to run a marathon. Less-active visitors can enjoy the city’s new hotels, including the Burman Hotel and Nunne, both in the medieval city, and its thriving culinary scene. Estonia has more in common with its Nordic neighbors like Finland than its strictly Baltic ones like Latvia, and its new Nordic cuisine is worth a visit on its own. It was the first country in the Baltic region to have a Michelin guide. Meanwhile, filming is reportedly under way for a major Hollywood TV project starring Michael Fassbender and Richard Gere in a remake of a successful French espionage series. — Ann Abel
Cotswolds
Close your eyes and conjure the English countryside, and it’s the Cotswolds that best epitomizes its idyllic environs. Stay at Thyme, a collection of Grade-2 listed buildings converted into a bucolic 31-bedroom escape across 150 acres of well-manicured farmland, gardens, and trails. If the entire property feels as if it’s a historic village, well, it basically is; the hotel even operates the neighboring The Swan pub. Your period piece fantasies will continue to unfold at Cowley Manor Experimental, a 55-acre estate with an elegant manse and immaculate gardens that now feature several dozen guestrooms with eclectic, modern décor. — Jake Emen
India
It’s never a bad time to see one of the world’s most stunning architectural wonders, and the majestic Taj Mahal is at the top of the list. If it’s your first trip to India you’ll hit the Golden Triangle that includes Agra and the Taj, as well as capital city Delhi and fantastical Jaipur. You could also consider heading to a tiger safari in Ranthambore National Park for a rare adrenaline rush. For the more health and wellness minded, venture north from Delhi to Uttarakhand, home of Six Senses Vana. The resort offers comprehensive, multi-week wellness journeys tailored to personal goals, with Ayurveda centering dozens of different treatments and therapies. — Jake Emen
England’s Wine Region
Champagne snobs, hear us out: England is making some of the world’s most scrumptious sparkling wine in Sussex, Hampshire, Kent, and Surrey — and it’s more than worth the tipple. Head out before the Instagram crowds overrun the charming region, once known for its hops farms. Today, it boasts some 500 wineries, Michelin-starred restaurants, historic towns (such as Whitstable, famous for its oysters), and canny hotels. With chalk-brimming soil that matches the terroir of Champagne and changing weather patterns thanks to global warming, the area has attracted some of France’s biggest wine families. Taittinger, in fact, was the first Champagne house to grow grapes and make wine in the United Kingdom — and the results speak for themselves. Consider an organized tour of the area with Luxury Vacations UK, Grape Escapes, or Great British Wine Tours. — Becca Hensley
Monte Carlo, Monaco
Monte Carlo isn’t just a playground for the rich; it’s a masterclass in timeless glamour (and incredible shopping). The Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo sits like a crown jewel on the Place du Casino, hosting icons and jet-setters since 1864 with marble staircases, opulent suites, and dining by Alain Ducasse. Meanwhile, the Hotel Metropole offers a slightly edgier take on Monaco’s elegance, combining Belle Époque architecture with chic modern touches and a pool scene curated by Karl Lagerfeld. For those who prefer their Riviera views from the water, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Evrima begins a seven-night journey here, treating guests to luxury on the high seas as it makes its way toward a final stop in Barcelona. — Deanne Kaczerski
Brisbane, Australia
Australia can feel like a daunting destination for American travelers beginning their journey half a world away. It’s the longest of long hauls, but a direct flight can go a long way towards soothing what ails you. Brisbane, the country’s third most populous city, is coming out swinging with new options to help you reach the destination in less time than ever. American Airlines launches a route from Dallas this October, and in December 2024, Delta debuts a flight from Los Angeles. The capital of Queensland is calling, and it’s your jumping off point to Australia’s Gold Coast, and even the Great Barrier Reef. — Jake Emen
East Townships of Quebec, Canada
Sure Montreal is cool. But about 90 minutes south, the quaintly electrifying small towns that compose the Eastern Townships bid visitors to embrace a slow motion foray into timeless wilderness and bucolic reverie. Underscored with its distinct fusion of French-meets-English heritage, the quiet region — textured with manifold groves of pines and birch trees anchored by shimmering lakes and defined by its abundance of farmers, cheesemakers and wine crafters — stands out as an epicurean’s dream. Stay at much lauded, family-owned, long established Manoir Hovey, a Relais & Chateaux hotel on Massawippi Lake, to cascade blissfully into the region’s raison d’etre. They offer gastronomic tours, such as a cheesemaker’s circuit tour, among other experiences meant to immerse guests in the region. — Becca Hensley
Barbados
Barbados is rewriting the Caribbean rulebook with a mix of laid-back charm and polished sophistication. For those who like their beach days with a touch of exclusivity, the O2 Beach Club & Spa offers all-inclusive luxury that goes beyond the basics — think rooftop pools, personalized butler service, and a curated selection of fine dining experiences. While the island is famous for its powdery beaches and warm waters, it’s the Bajan spirit and cultural flair that really set it apart. From sipping aged rum at a cliffside bar to indulging in the freshest seafood, Barbados is the kind of place that lures you in with its beauty and keeps you entranced with its soul. — Deanne Kaczerski
Bolivia, South America
Bolivia beckons, bound to become one of South America’s biggest “it” destinations. In the meantime, get there before the crowds do, and enjoy the slower pace and pristine surroundings without them. Its capital, La Paz, is the world’s highest. Its Uyuni Salt Flat, or Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest. The surreal, perspective-shifting site was either made for Instagram or made by Dalí, but either way, needs to be seen to be believed. Take a journey to the Explora Mountain Lodges to make the most of Bolivia’s best and furthest flung locales, with a fully-coordinated, almost-private luxurious getaway into one of the most remote remaining places on the planet. — Jake Emen
Svalbard, Norway
Svalbard is the edge of the planet, er, at least the top of its curve. Sorry flat earthers. The island boasts the world’s most northern permanent settlement, brewery, whiskey bar, husky cafe…everything. Unless you’re Santa Claus, there is nothing more northern — and technically, that guy is considered to be from Lapland, well south of Svalbard’s staggering 78° North. Most visitors cruise around the archipelago, but consider a short flight from a Scandinavian city such as Tromsø or Oslo and spending a few nights at the very hygge Funken Lodge, a former reception center for the mining company responsible for much of Longyearbyen’s original establishment. Northern Lights in the winter — viewable, yes, to the south — midnight sun in the summer, polar bears and glaciers, oh my! —Jake Emen
Feature image courtesy of Manfredi Fine Hotels Collection
