Far-Flung Destinations to Add to Your Bucket List

Republic of Botswana

Those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime vacation during 2016, can achieve just that at the recently renovated Belmond Eagle Island Lodge. Re-opened in November 2015, the ultimate Okavango Delta water-based safari underwent an almost total rebuild, bringing innovation and originality to the experience. Reflecting the region's natural beauty and offering an insight into the heart of the delta, local artisans and materials have been used to create the lodge's fresh new tented guest accommodation, restaurant and lounge. One of the world's largest inland water systems and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Belmond Eagle Island Lodge is one of three Belmond safari lodges in Botswana. No other lodge in Africa offers such a water-focused safari experience, with activities including motorboat safaris, barge cruises and mekoro (a local canoe) safaris, as well as walking and air safaris in a private helicopter.



The Kingdom of Bhutan

With travelers constantly searching for the next destination far off the beaten path, 2016 is set to herald in a surge of interest for one of the last seemingly untouched destinations in the world - The Kingdom of Bhutan. Nestled amidst the rugged Himalayas, the country prides itself on an unwavering commitment to eco-conservation and a dedication to the wellbeing of its people. Indeed, rather than measure national development on GDP, the country uses complex algorithms to determine the GNH - or Gross National Happiness - of its citizens. Travel tip: For those who wish to travel to Bhutan, the country requires a visa and travelers must book their holiday through a Bhutanese tour operator or one of their international partners.



Siem Reap, Cambodia

Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor in Siem Reap is supremely qualified to be the creator and setting for the new Royal Khmer Experience. The hotel, built in 1929 on a former Royal compound, has witnessed and played its own part in recent Cambodian history. This memorable tailor-made 2-night trip allows guests to follow in the footsteps of royalty and immerse themselves in the Kingdom's ancient traditions. The package includes a memorable dining experience at the hotel's Restaurant Le Grand, where the chefs re-create the intricate flavors of recipes gifted by HRH King Norodom Sihanouk, the chance to witness century old dance performances by the Raffles' Apsara troupe, a visit with Resident Historian, Mr. Mouth Saravann and participation in a traditional Cambodian monk's blessing at the Preah Ang Chek Preah Ang Chorm Royal Shrine.



Kowloon, Hong Kong

With its dramatic waterfront location, InterContinental Hong Kong boasts incredible vistas of Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong Island. The property is ideal for travelers seeking a culinary destination, as it is home to an unprecedented four Michelin-stars and the popular “Cooking with the Culinary Stars” series -- a unique, hands-on dining experience, allowing guests to cook alongside the celebrated chefs at the hotel's three Michelin starred restaurants: SPOON by Alain Ducasse, Yan Toh Heen, and THE STEAK HOUSE winebar + grill, as well as the property's exclusive location of NOBU. The hotel's chefs will showcase their diversity in international cuisine including French, Japanese and Cantonese. The hotel's Executive Chef Nicola Canuti will also be sharing his Italian specialties at one of the 2016 classes. For guests looking to satisfy their sweet tooth, the hotel also hosts “Baking Club” classes, teaching the masterful art of dessert and cake-making, as taught by SPOON Pastry Chef Olivier Lannes and Executive Pastry Chef Cyril Dupuis.



Monte Carlo, Monaco

For travelers seeking a far-flung destination where the party never ends, Fairmont Monte Carlo, located in the heart of Monaco offers just that. Beginning April 7, 2016, the renowned Nikki Beach will operate a pop-up beach club & restaurant on the rooftop of the hotel from noon to 2am, daily. A picture-perfect location with the most stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, the rooftop will be modeled after the same stylish and contemporary look and feel of all of the brand's locations around the world. Nikki Beach at Fairmont Monte Carlo will be adorned in plush, all-white sun beds, where guests will be able to spend their days and evenings around the pool indulging in refreshing cocktails, endless champagne and an extensive menu of delectable dishes representative of all the countries Nikki Beach is currently located.



Panama City, Panama

Windstar Cruises, a small ship cruise line that sails with less than 300 passengers, features Panama City on their Costa Rica & Panama Canal itinerary, and offers guests ease of travel and luxury amenities, while also allowing plenty of time to explore the city and surrounding areas. Windstar Cruises spends a day and a half anchored in Balboa Bay, which offers guests sweeping views of the Panama City skyline, before passing through the Panama Canal during a night transit (new for the line in 2016). Before passing through the famed Canal, guests can spend their days exploring the port of Balboa, where celebrities and business moguls alike keep their private yachts; the neighborhood of Amador, which features the Frank Gehry Design Museum; Casco Viejo or the Old Quarter, which transports guests back to the Spanish Colonial era; and the sights and sounds of the bustling Downtown and waterfront. The small ship cruise line also offers guests the chance to explore the jungle covered islands of Lake Gatun, the famed lake located in the heart of the Panama Canal, where wildlife is plentiful, and guests are likely to encounter capuchin monkeys, 3-toed sloths, howler monkeys, various kinds of toucans and other bird life as well as caimans, crocodiles, and turtles.