12 Destinations To Add To Your Travel Bucket List
Whether your passion is sun, snow or cruising the seas, you can’t go wrong with these 12 iconic travel destinations.
Sun-kissed beaches and calm surf are just two of the lures at Eden Rock in St. Barts
SUN
ST. BARTS
STAY: The newly designed Signature Suite at Eden Rock (oetkercollection.com) is like a superyacht on St. Jean Beach. Another savvy option is the Diamond Suite, a 2,260-square-foot hideaway with a beachside infinity pool.
SEE: The property partners with Monaco-based Royal Yacht International (royalyachtinternational.com) to offer guests privately chartered voyages on vessels boasting three to 20 cabins.
DINE: Renowned chef Jean-Georges created a menu at The Sand Bar that we love, including a swoonworthy caviar lineup (don’t miss the linguini, caviar and lemon beurre fondue).
INDULGE: Celebrity skincare expert Dr. Barbara Sturm (drsturm.com) offers guests signature products and treatments, including the exclusive Eden Rock Sturm Glow facial, specially designed for the hotel’s guests.
PUNTA DE MITA, MEXICO
STAY: The 3,242-square-foot Penthouse Ocean View Suite at Conrad Punta de Mita (conradpuntademita.com) features a living room, a dining room, a private patio with plunge pool, chocolate truffle and mezcal amenities, and a private agave tasting for two.
SEE: Enjoy golf at Higuera Golf Club (higueragolfclub.com), offering world-class links on its 18-hole, par- 72, Greg Norman-designed course. Rookie surfers can take lessons (all boards and gear included), and those with experience can venture to Sayulita for more challenging waves.
DINE: Inspired by an ancient Aztec manuscript, executive chef German Ghelfi takes guests on a culinary journey at the open-air Codex. The menu showcases traditional dishes like Yucatecan pulled pork and seafood rice (meloso style) with Pacific lobster.
INDULGE: Conrad Spa incorporates a contemporary interpretation of Huichol symbolism and ancient rituals inspired by local shamanic practices with healing herbs, essential oils and natural extracts.
The spectacular pool at Maui gem Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort.
MAUI, HAWAII
STAY: On the spectacular south coastline overlooking the islands of Lanai and Kahoolawe, two resort renos are all the buzz. Featuring suites and two-story villas redesigned to evoke stories of the island’s heritage, Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui (fairmont.com/kea-lani-maui) also welcomed a new cultural center, Hale Kukuna. At Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort (grandwailea.Com), guests recharge in its new wellness rooms and 50,000-squarefoot Kilolani Spa, boasting 40 treatment rooms and innovative therapies inspired by ancient Hawaiian traditions.
SEE: The Road to Hana, the famed drive on the northeastern coast, features 52 miles of hairpin turns through the rugged countryside. Food stands, countless viewpoints and hiking trails to hidden waterfalls are all part of the fun.
DINE: Discerning palates appreciate Merriman’s (merrimanshawaii.com) farmer- and fishermaninspired menu. Book lunch at iconic Mama’s Fish House (mamasfishhouse.com) so views of waves accompany its signature dishes. For a gourmet getaway, score VIP tickets to the annual Hawai‘i Food & Wine Festival (hawaiifoodandwinefestival.com) in October and experience over 150 global tastemakers showcasing the best of Hawaii’s local ingredients.
INDULGE: Shop The Monarch Collective (monarchcollectivemaui.com) for clothing, jewelry and home goods and Holoholo Surf (holoholosurf.com) for retro aloha wear and swimwear from local designers. At The Shops at Wailea (theshopsatwailea.com), plan a shopping spree around its concert series.
The serene courtyard of Cap Juluca Spa by Guerlain.
ANGUILLA, CARIBBEAN
STAY: Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel (belmond.com), stands out with its Greco-Moorish architecture, pristine white-sand beaches and personalized service that caters to every whim. Malliouhana, Auberge Resorts Collection (aubergeresorts.com), perched high on a bluff overlooking Meads Bay, blends vibrant island style with refined luxury, offering stunning ocean views and lush tropical gardens. For those seeking modern elegance, Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla (fourseasons.com/anguilla) offers expansive villas and suites, infinity pools and unparalleled access to crystal-clear Caribbean waters.
SEE: Spend your days lounging on Shoal Bay, one of the Caribbean’s most renowned beaches, or snorkeling among the vibrant coral reefs at Little Bay. Consider chartering a boat for a sunset cruise or a daylong exploration of the island’s hidden coves and neighboring islets to elevate your adventure. Whether a romantic sail or a family outing, a private boat charter offers a unique perspective of Anguilla’s breathtaking coastline.
DINE: At Belmond Cap Juluca, Pimms offers an elegant dining experience with a menu featuring Caribbean classics and fresh seafood, all set against the backdrop of Maundays Bay. Malliouhana boasts Celeste, where French and Caribbean cuisines come together in a romantic, open-air setting, perfect for enjoying a sunset dinner. Over at Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla, Salt provides a sophisticated farm-to-table dining experience, focusing on locally sourced ingredients and fresh seafood in a chic, contemporary setting.
INDULGE: The newly re-imagined Cap Juluca Spa by Guerlain is a serene haven offering innovative treatments inspired by ancient healing traditions. The Malliouhana Spa provides a holistic wellness experience with oceanfront treatment rooms and therapies designed to rejuvenate body and mind. At Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla, the Spa at Four Seasons offers a range of luxurious treatments that combine Caribbean traditions with modern techniques.
The grand staircase lobby at Amangani
SNOW
VAL D’ISÈRE, FRANCE
STAY: World-class winter sports meet old-world charm in this enchanting ski area and village. No property is more iconic than the five-star Hôtel Le Blizzard (hotelblizzard.com), which boasts cozy Alpine charm with high-end amenities including a spa, a heated outdoor pool and gourmet dining.
SEE: Explore the jaw-dropping Espace Killy (espacekilly.com) ski area of Val d’Isère and Tignes, known for its world-class slopes and breathtaking mountain views. Stroll the charming village of Val d’Isère, and don’t miss the chance to see La Daille’s famous icefall, where you can try your hand at ice climbing.
DINE: Reserve a table at Michelin-starred La Table de l’Ours (hotellesbarmes.com), renowned for its exquisite cuisine inspired by the Alpine countryside. Slopeside destination La Peau de Vache (lapeaudevache.fr) offers hearty mountain fare with stunning panoramic views.
INDULGE: Treat yourself to a relaxing day at the ultraluxe Sisley Spa des Barmes de l’Ours (hotellesbarmes.com), one of the largest spas in the French Alps.
Guest rooms at the historic Hotel Jerome blend rustic charm with modern elegance
ASPEN
STAY: Aspen is synonymous with luxury, and nothing embodies this more than its top-tier accommodations. The Little Nell (thelittlenell.com) is Aspen’s only five-star, five-diamond hotel, offering ski-in/ski-out access with personalized service and stunning mountain views. Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection (aubergeresorts.com), is a historic gem blending rustic charm with modern elegance. The St. Regis Aspen Resort (marriott.Com), known for its refined decor and legendary service, promises an opulent stay with its RAKxa Wellness Spa and stunning views of Aspen Mountain.
SEE: Immerse yourself in Aspen’s rich culture and natural beauty. Visit the Aspen Art Museum (aspenartmuseum.org) for cuttingedge contemporary art exhibitions. Head to Anderson Ranch Arts Center (andersonranch.org) for artist-led workshops and exhibitions. Of course, outdoor adventures abound—skiing on Aspen Mountain, hiking the Maroon Bells or enjoying a scenic drive along Independence Pass.
DINE: Aspen’s culinary scene is a gourmet’s dream, blending international flair with local ingredients. Begin your journey at Matsuhisa (matsuhisaaspen.com), where world-renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa offers an exquisite Japanese-Peruvian fusion menu in a chic, modern setting. For an intimate Italian dining experience, Casa Tua (casatualifestyle.com) combines the warmth of a rustic villa with sophisticated, flavorful dishes. For a contemporary twist, visit Bosq (bosqaspen.com), where the menu celebrates the seasons with cuisine highlighting the best local ingredients. Finally, savor the fine dining experience at Element 47 at The Little Nell, where locally sourced ingredients and an award-winning wine list create a memorable culinary adventure.
Savor old-world charm in the shadow of the French Alps in Val d’Isère.
INDULGE: Yarrow Spa at Hotel Jerome offers bespoke treatments in a serene setting. O2 Aspen (o2aspen.com) provides a holistic approach with yoga classes and organic facials. For the ultimate luxury, experience the Dioriviera and Dior spa residency at The Little Nell, where you can indulge in exclusive treatments.
JACKSON HOLE, WYO.
STAY: Experience mountain bliss at Amangani (aman.com) and reserve the 625-square-foot Grand Teton Suite. The luxe lair offers stunning views of the Teton mountain range, a fireplace, faux wolf-fabric woven chairs, a window-side daybed and a wraparound balcony.
SEE: Choose an Adventures in the Wild package and experience Wyoming’s wilderness with a sunrise or sunset tour in a BMW X7, wellness classes, snowshoe and hiking excursions, and a dogsled tour.
DINE: Executive chef Manuel Fernandez impresses with local fare at The Grill (think caribou sausages, elk T-bone and bison short rib). His kitchen team also shines with private dining at an intimate outdoor spot or a fireside terrace. Don’t miss the five-course tasting menu.
INDULGE: The spa’s beauty IV therapy receives raves; it fortifies skin, hair and nails while supporting collagen to help improve complexion. It includes calcium, B-complex, B12, vitamin C, magnesium, biotin and glutathione.
A roomy suite at the Tschuggen Grand Hotel
SAINT MORITZ, SWITZERLAND
STAY: Two hours from Saint Moritz, the newly opened Mountain Lofts at the Tschuggen Grand Hotel (tschuggencollection.ch) offer a fresh take on elevated mountain living. The lofts have a sustainable design (including reclaimed Arosa rocks) and features like Duke White granite from the Alps, open kitchens, luxurious baths with soaking tubs and private saunas.
SEE: Ever dream of having a ski slope in the Alps to yourself? Before the crowds arrive, take advantage of the hotel’s Private Mountain program and create the first snow tracks before the Arosa Lenzerheide ski area (arosalenzerheide.swiss/en) opens.
DINE: La Brezza, led by chef Marco Campanella, boasts 18 Gault & Millau points and two Michelin stars. Guests can savor creatively re-imagined traditional Swiss and Italian dishes alongside exceptional plant-based options.
INDULGE: The Tschuggen Bergoase spa spans four floors, with glass sails rising from the mountainside. Guests can experience architecture and treatments designed for tranquility, wellness and holistic restoration.
Discover the king penguin colony of St. Andrews Bay, South Georgia, on an excursion from Silversea’s Silver Endeavour
SEA
ALASKA SAIL: On the 10-day Radiant Alaska voyage from Oceania Cruises (oceaniacruises.com), guests aboard the stylish vessel Regatta can revel in one of cruising’s most iconic destinations, all in serious style.
Oceania Cruises’ nimble Regatta makes for a luxe Alaskan home away from home.
STAY: Check into one of Regatta’s four Vista Suites, named for their stunning views over the ship’s bow and each boasting nearly 800 square feet of space including a teak veranda.
SEE: Highlights of the Seattle to Seattle itinerary include stunning destinations such as the Hubbard Glacier, Sitka, Juneau and Ketchikan. Excursions offer opportunities to explore breathtaking glaciers, wildlife and rich cultural heritage sites.
DINE: Dress to the nines for a gourmet feast in The Grand Dining Room, indulge in top-shelf Italian at Toscana, or go for a more casual vibe at Terrace Cafe or Waves Grill.
INDULGE: Unwind at the onboard Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center, which offers a wide range of body treatments (Thai herbal poultice massage, anyone?), traditional Chinese medicine, wellness programs and more.
Explore the Antarctic Peninsula via Zodiac boat with Silversea.
MEDITERRANEAN
each spa treatment room on the Seabourn Venture boasts exceptional views
SAIL: Luxury cruise brand Seabourn (seabourn.com) recently introduced the Seabourn Venture ship, created by iconic hospitality atelier Tihany Design. The vessels feature 132 spacious oceanfront suites in 12 categories, each offering expansive views and private verandas.
STAY: The two-level Grand Wintergarden suites offer spacious comfort with a living area, dining table for four, second bedroom, guest bath and pantry with a wet bar stocked with custom spirits.
SEE: On the 10-day Andalusian Nights: Spotlight on Seville voyage (March 26 to April 5), Sunday Times wine critic Will Lyons hosts onboard lectures and wine tastings.
DINE: Michelin-starred chefs created a 24-hour in-room dining experience on top of a new menu for The Restaurant, featuring dishes like gratinated Champagne oysters with white leek and mushroom duxelles.
INDULGE: Each Seabourn ship features a Mindful Living Coach, a certified yoga and meditation expert who guides guests through orientations, seminars, and classes designed to inspire and educate during the voyage.
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
SAIL: Though renowned for its big-boat adventures, Celebrity Cruises (celebritycruises.com) is making a splash with Flora, its all-suite, 100-passenger vessel specifically designed to cruise the Galapagos Islands. The ultimate adventure? The 16-night sojourn through the Galapagos Outer Loop and Machu Picchu.
STAY: Boasting a personal attendant, a private veranda and wraparound floor-to-ceiling windows, Flora’s two 1,288-square-foot penthouse suites are the largest and most luxurious in the Galapagos.
SEE: Explore the diverse ecosystems of the Galapagos Islands, with highlights such as Gardner Bay with its sea lion colonies and flamingofavorite Cormorant Point, plus a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu.
DINE: From Ecuadorian-inspired dishes at Seaside Restaurant to dinner under the stars at Ocean Grill, there’s plenty of high-class cuisine to tempt on board.
INDULGE: Experience the only glamping in the Galapagos with a couples’ exclusive sunset-to-sunrise experience featuring dinner, cocktails and a cabana under the stars on the yacht’s top deck.
ANTARCTICA
SAIL: Aboard Silversea’s (silversea.com) intimate, 220-passenger Silver Endeavour— considered the world’s most luxurious expedition ship—the 15- day sojourn from Puerto Williams to King George Island is the ultimate Antarctic adventure.
STAY: The nearly 1,900-square-foot Owner’s Suite boasts an expansive veranda and separate living and dining areas—plus a primary tub with jawdropping views, natch.
SEE: Experience breathtaking landscapes and wildlife, including the Falkland Islands, South Georgia’s king penguin colonies and the stunning ice formations of the Antarctic Peninsula. Zodiac excursions and guided walks offer encounters with nature.
DINE: The vessel’s four onboard restaurants offer a variety of gourmet cuisines plus 24-hour in-suite dining; for the crème de la crème of culinary experiences, don’t miss the tasting menu at La Dame, featuring impeccable service and a multicourse food and wine pairing menu option.
INDULGE: While away a day at sea with treatments at Otium Spa, which range from signature facials and massages to a variety of body treatments.
