Traveling in 2024 promises reinvigorating experiences, whether it's exploring the landscapes of remote destinations or savoring vibrant cultures in bustling cities. As travelers embark on an exciting new year, they will be reminded that every journey is a chance to connect with the world that is uniquely their own.
EUROPE
Forte Dei Marmi: Because the Amalfi Coast is not Italian, Forte Dei Marmi is Besides not being a popular destination to Americans as the Amalfi Coast or Sicily, Forte dei Marmi holds a special status among wealthy and powerful Italians - their equivalent of the Hamptons. Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Villa Roma Imperiale is the love child of an Italian family who has been vacationing there for generations and whose goal was to create a sanctuary of the vita fortemarmina. A hideaway boasting 31 bedrooms, the quaint beach house features a cultivated glamour with the privilege of slowing down. Forte dei Marmi offers a tranquil and idyllic haven, with its fine golden sands and calm oceans making it the perfect spot for a relaxing beach-side holiday. With its ideal location, guests can indulge in the iconic beach clubs—just a five-minute walk from the Villa, and enjoy the cultural festivities of nearby Pietrasanta, take an hour drive to the stunning views of Cinque Terre, and hike the Apuan Alps.
Dolomites: Because it’s the Other Side to Italy Americans are Discovering
Nestled within the Italian Dolomites, FORESTIS emerges as a groundbreaking Alpine destination, masterminded by visionary hoteliers Stefan Hinteregger and Teresa Unterthiner. The property is setting a new trend for the Alps bringing Wellness and Nature Immersion to another level, a new chapter in the hospitality industry of the European mountains. A conceptual 5-star mountain retreat celebrating the luxury of simplicity, FORESTIS welcomed Odles Lodge in May 2023 - a stand-alone property boasting one chalet and four individual suites, inviting guests to completely immerse into the surrounding nature elements. The opening of Odles Lodge comes as the wave of boutique hotel openings in the Dolomites for a luxury retreat has been on the rise as travelers are seeking more peaceful, nature-immersed getaways.
Venice: Because Venetians Safeguard Traditions Showcasing Italy’s Finest
Collezione EM introduces Violino d'Oro, Venice's newest five-star boutique hotel opened on November. Nestled along the canals just two minutes from Piazza San Marco, this charming hideaway pays homage to Venice's rich cultural heritage. Created by Sara and Elena Maestrelli, representing three decades of Italian Florentine Family hospitality, Violino d'Oro promises an intimate, truly Italian palazzo experience. Set within a 17th-century historical building in the heart of the city, the hotel boasts 32 rooms. Its design blends ancient art, Oriental influences, contemporary pieces, and original Venetian seminato craftsmanship from one of Venice's oldest artisan families. Il Piccolo, the in-house restaurant, helmed by Executive Chef Stefano Santo, offers forward-thinking, plant-based cuisine using local ingredients, served in a cozy space with typical Venetian windows overlooking Campo Barozzi. Discover Venice's diverse flavors sustainably at Violino d'Oro, a must-stay property for authentic Venetian experiences.
Florence: Because it’s where the 2024 Tour de France Starts
For the first time ever, the first three stages of the Tour de France will take place in Italy in 2024, with the historic competition commencing in the city of Florence. Before heading east towards Rimini on the Adriatic Coast, following the Apennines north through Emilia-Romagna, and ending stage three in Turin, Florence welcomes competitors to the capital of Tuscany, brimming with Renaissance architecture, distinguished culture, and incredible cuisine. Situated in the heart of the city at Santa Maria Novella, Grand Hotel Minerva is a cultural awakening, featuring 97 rooms and suites, a stunning rooftop, and meticulous design by Carlo Scarpa for an immersive Florentine experience.
Elegantly designed with luxurious bedding, curated Italian design, and modern convenience, Grand Hotel Minerva introduces travelers for the Tour de France to an authentic experience. The hotel’s ideal location places guests just minutes from the city’s main attraction, like The Uffizi, Ponte Vecchio, and Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. The hotel itself boasts Tuscan cuisine with a focus on vegetables and the region at La Buona Novella and a rooftop pool and bar, offering 360-degree views of the city.
Switzerland: Because it’s the 30th Anniversary of the St. Moritz Gourmet Festival
An annual highlight of the January social calendar in St. Moritz, the Gourmet Festival –celebrating its 30th anniversary – promises a tip-top start to 2024. As always, first-class guest chefs and local chefs will work together at the stove to deliver out of-this-world culinary experiences to guests and food lovers according to the yearly theme. 2024 will mark the festival’s 30th birthday by focusing on all things “three,” including the Michelin star ratings of their guest chefs, meaning that all of the star chefs attending the 2024 festival have been awarded three stars by the esteemed Michelin guide.
For accommodations, St. Moritz is home to four five-star properties, Suvretta House, Kulm Hotel St. Moritz, Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, and the Carlton Hotel St. Moritz - all members of Swiss Deluxe Hotels. From luxurious suites to outdoor experiences and wellness facilities, each property offers guests more than just easy access to the festival. When guests aren’t indulging in the finest Swiss cuisine, they are spoiled with skiing, carriage rides through the snow, snow shoeing, and more in the captivating alpine scenery.
Lake Garda: Because it’s a Year-Round Destination for Rejuvenation
Situated 600 feet above Lake Garda, Cape of Senses opened its doors to guests in July 2023 as the area’s latest year-round spa hideaway. The property offers spectacular views of the lake and mountains and year-round relaxation and regeneration, encouraging guests to slow down and reconnect with their senses in a tranquil setting. Combining simplistic elegance with traditional Italian flare, the family-owned hotel, designed by architects and interior designers Hugo and Alessia Demetz, is comprised of 55 suites boasting floor-to-ceiling glass windows with stunning Mediterranean views.
For ultimate relaxation, the property features the 2,100 square-foot Senses Spa, offering a holistic concept with an extensive range of facilities including pools, a sauna, a fitness area, treatment rooms, and relaxation rooms, along with a spa library and spa garden, which includes a yoga platform. Guests are also invited to unwind at the outdoor, private heated infinity pool and jacuzzi overlooking the lake, or venture inside to the connected indoor pool. Additionally during their stay, travelers can enjoy bespoke experiences, including a private dinner on a lake jetty, a vineyard picnic, a sailing tour, a cooking class in the local community, and more. The property also offers local tours to Verona (only 25 minutes away), Torri del Benaco, Garda, Venice, and Milan, as well as hiking tours, golf, yoga, and meditation.
The Azores: Because it’s an Off-The-Grid Adventure
Set on the edge of the world in the Azores, Pegasus Lodges' Fajã do Belo emerges as a property for travelers seeking a transformative experience within a pristine natural environment. Offering access to secret lakes, cascading waterfalls, and a secluded surf spot, this lodge is an outdoor enthusiast's dream come true. Guests can partake in activities such as canyoning, rock climbing, fishing, and diving, making every day a new adventure. Seamlessly blending into its natural surroundings, Fajã Do Belo offers guests an off-the-grid adventure. To enter the property, travelers must embark on a mountain hike, forging a genuine connection with the surrounding environment. Naturally full of charm, the lodges at Fajã Do Belo showcase an exquisite design with stunning volcanic stone, reflecting the distinct architectural style typical of the island. Guests can wake up each morning with magnificent views to help heal the soul and restore life to its full self. At the end of each day, guests can unwind in the property's common areas, offering the ideal backdrop for beachfront gatherings, bonfire conversations, and the creation of lasting memories with fellow adventurers, solidifying Fajã do Belo as the destination for those seeking an authentic and immersive Azorean experience.
Sardinia: Because it’s an Escape from Italy’s Tourist Frenzy
As Italian cities are beginning to experiment with admission fees to combat over tourism in 2024, Sardinia, a picturesque Mediterranean island off the coast of Italy, stands as a tranquil alternative for travelers seeking respite from overcrowded destinations. With no admission fees required to enter the island and a new influx of luxury hotels coming to the destination in 2024, travelers can have the Italian vacation of their dreams at this well-kept secret. Available now via THIRDHOME Adventures – a curated small-group of luxury tours designed to WOW travelers, is the opportunity to join the Sardinia Island Escape. Here, participating travelers can discover the hypnotic beauty of the idyllic island and authentic living of Sardinia while offering members the rare opportunity to stay at Villa la Belle Etoile. As one of the most exclusives homes in THIRDHOME’s portfolio (a luxury home exchange club for second homeowners) Villa la Belle Etoile, boasts breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, while simultaneously maintaining guest privacy thanks to its elevated position over the beach. The 7,000 square ft. property located 40 minutes by car from Cagliari Airport contains four levels and comes equipped with a staff of seven including a first-class concierge service. Featured in the exciting new series Millionaire Holiday Home Swap on Paramount + UK, Villa la Belle Etoile has 5/5 star reviews and includes 8 bedrooms (each with a different theme.)
For travelers wishing to stay in Sardinia longer than the above adventure allows, this Il Nido Azzurro beckons as a peaceful getaway where visitors can bask in the island's natural beauty. Only available to members of THIRDHOME - a premier luxury travel club for second homeowners, this peaceful home is one of 15,000 properties across 100 plus with the average property value of $2.4 million. The one bedroom, one bath apartment comes with a fully equipped kitchen, coffee machine, spacious living room, garden, and a terrace with views of the private beach. The beaches of Gallura are all small bays surrounded by granite rocks, transparent waters, and white sand. The property is in one of the most exclusive areas of Sardinia Island, situated on the north side near the famous village of Santa Maria di Gallura, facing the well-known Maddalena archipelago. Travelers can explore the island rich in history, hike at Punta Contessa Park, or cycle around the island. After a long day exploring the island, guests can have a glass of freshly made wine and admire the crystal blue waters.
ASIA
Ubud: Because the Government Safeguards Bali's Cultural Heritage
In 2024, the Indonesian government is planning to implement a $10 tourist tax for all visitors to Bali to help protect the island’s rich heritage and assist with local community initiatives and preservation. Considered the cultural heartland of Bali, Ubud is known for its majestic temples, royal palaces, traditional markets, rolling green hillsides, and rice terraces. The village is rooted in spirituality and healing, with access to many sacred temples for blessings or ceremonies and traditional healers for private sessions. For travelers to the Land of the Gods in 2024, Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is set to pay homage to Ubud's culture, traditions, and holistic healing through the property's new Disconnect to Reconnect Program. The offering invites guests to reconnect with their authentic selves, cultivate mindfulness and gain a renewed sense of clarity and purpose while immersing themselves within the natural world.
Seminyak Beach: Because the Island Is Taking a Big Green Step
As a destination, Bali has always delighted guests with its ability to embrace the modern and traditional with a stylish and youthful zest. While that energy is still thriving Post pandemic, Bali is also having a big moment when it comes to becoming more eco-conscious. The hospitality industry and prominent corporations in Bali have joined forces to create sustainable initiatives in-house to significantly enhance land preservation efforts. Additionally, a groundbreaking policy has been implemented across the industry to ban single-use plastic bags throughout the island, reducing waste and protecting the environment. This commitment to sustainability aligns with the growing trend of responsible tourism, where both the community and tourists are actively involved in beach cleanups and plastic reduction initiatives. Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach, IHG's first five-star hotel in a resort location, is dedicated to promoting cleanliness and sustainability with partnerships like SOS (Scholars of Sustenance) for leftover food donation and management, as well as collaborating with Sungai Watch for mangrove clean-up efforts. Also on the horizon in 2024, Bali's government will be implementing a $10 e-tax on tourists in order to further assist community initiatives and preservation efforts.
The Maldives: Because It’s Not Too Late to Protect the 7th Largest Coral Reef System
In 2024, as Citizen Science trips become increasingly sought-after, these journeys focus on how tourism can play an active role in ecosystem restoration. They offer everyday travelers a distinct chance to engage directly with researchers and specialists on specialized projects, all with the goal of creating a significant impact and providing an adventurous and enriching experience.
Baros Maldives continues to reinforce its dedication to safeguarding marine biodiversity through the establishment of multiple marine protected areas. As a Maldivian-owned resort committed to marine conservation, it provides awareness and educational programs, including guided tours to uninhabited islands, diving, and snorkeling activities to promote a better understanding of oceanic ecological challenges. Their 'Coral Propagation' program involves the establishment of coral nurseries by transplanting fragments onto solid substrates, benefiting a variety of marine life. Guests have the opportunity to participate in the 'Coral Sponsorship' program, where they can attach living coral fragments to coral tables on the island. Ambra Federica Dugaria, the resident marine biologist at Baros, is responsible for ensuring the well-being of both Baros House Reef and nearby dive sites. They focuse on enhancing the environmental awareness of guests through a tourism-oriented approach, offering comprehensive presentations on specific subjects that are presented in a clear and accessible manner, catering to all types of audiences.
Japan: Because Niseko Village is Undergoing a Big Change
Niseko Village, otherwise known as the “Aspen of the East,” is elated to unveil Niseko-yo, just in time for the winter season. A magnet for winter sports enthusiasts, the pristine powdery paradise in Hokkaido now offers a new blend of gastronomy, shopping, nightlife, as well as snow and winter experiences for 2024. New and acclaimed restaurants including Gogyo powered by Ippudo, Long Tang’s dim sum, Chuan’s celebrated Sichuan hotpot, and Baby Crosta offering the first pizza omakase experience in Niseko, guests have a variety of delicacies to choose from. The Mandala Club, a private members club in Singapore, has also rolled out its red carpet. Guests can savor the Mandala Club’s cultural experiences in the heart of Niseko. Also new in the village is the Chuya tearoom at Higashiyama Niseko Village, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve, which prides itself on being a traditional tearoom by day and pulsatiing cocktail bar by night. Fringed with illustrious masterpieces by Frank Woo and Emi Shiratori, visitors are invited to witness the immersive celebration of nature and the area’s magical lore in the heart of YTL’s Niseko Village.
SOUTH AMERICA
The Galapagos Islands: Because the National Park Celebrates a Milestone
2024 marks the 65th anniversary of the Galapagos National Park, dedicated to conserving and restoring the natural wonder of the Galápagos Islands. The archipelago offers a profound connection to the natural world and has been studied extensively, most notably by Charles Darwin, who uncovered the significance of the unique endemic wildlife inhabiting each island. To experience the islands similar to the way Darwin did, Quasar Expeditions, an Ecuadorian-based leader in experiential and sustainable travel, offers small-ship expeditions on their two yachts. With a core mission to offer guests the possibility of visiting remote destinations while leaving the smallest footprint possible, Quasar is working on the launch of their third yacht, the M/Y Conservation, which will have a comprehensive sustainability plan encompassing everything from design to daily operations. The Conservation will also be able to host scientists, conservationists, and volunteers on board as they conduct archipelago research and monitor the impacts of introduced species and increased tourism.
Chilean Patagonia: Because Glaciers Need Sustainable Exploration
Travelers are increasingly opting for environmentally conscious tourism as climate change concerns grow. With the recent closure of the iconic Explorers Glacier, or Exploradores, in Laguna San Rafael, due to risks and uncertainty regarding the behavior of the glacier, last-chance trips to places where travelers can see gigantic glaciers and ice caves before they melt away have specifically seen an increase. Amidst the breathtaking Patagonian Ice Fields, travelers are offered a rare opportunity to explore the imposing glaciers and meet the legendary "Patagonian Ice Dragon," a creature contributing to the deceleration of glacier thawing. The tiny but resilient insect spends its entire life in the ice, feeding on cryoconite, a type of dust that can contribute to faster thawing by limiting glaciers’ reflectivity. As Patagonia's glaciers diminish, the Ice Dragon's presence helps to maintain the region's delicate ecosystem.
For accommodations in Patagonia, The Singular Patagonia stands out as a perfect choice for travelers looking to explore and preserve the so called “end of the world,” offering opulent comforts and fostering a deep connection with Patagonia's authentic wilderness. Each stay at the property reflects the essence of the area’s surroundings, paying tribute to local history and customs, and integrating the identity of the region into the guest experience. With world-class amenities, extraordinary dining experiences, and personalized service, travelers can embark on an adventure to preserve nature while immersing themselves in its splendor.
CARIBBEAN
Turks & Caicos: Because Kiteboarding Will Become Cool in 2024
With kiteboarding making its official Olympic debut in 2024, the sport is poised for a surge in popularity. Enthusiasts don't have to travel all the way to Paris to experience the thrill of kiteboarding, however. Closer to home, Turks and Caicos offers some of the best kiteboarding in the world. Vasco Borges, owner of Beach Enclave Turks & Caicos and a passionate kiteboarder himself, sees the world through a unique prism. The allure of Turks & Caicos for kiteboarding is apparent; the island's consistent trade winds, shallow, warm waters, and large areas of flat, uncrowded riding make it an ideal destination for this thrilling watersport. To Vasco, the ocean isn't just an expanse of water, but an arena for adventure, and the wind, a trusted partner guiding his board across the waves. This deeply personal view shapes his vision for the 2024 expansion of Beach Enclave. The significant expansion at North Shore includes new beach houses, offering privacy, tranquility, and an oceanfront Club Lounge. The award-winning Grace Bay is introducing contemporary villas with a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor living, termed the "Reserve at Grace Bay". Long Bay, known as a kiteboarder's haven, adds exquisite beach houses along its pristine white-sand beachfront, offering a sanctuary for families and water-sport enthusiasts.
AFRICA
The Southern Kalahari
In 2024, the Southern Kalahari emerges as a timely destination as the world becomes increasingly conscious of the importance of environmental preservation and responsible tourism. Amongst the backdrop of the Southern Kalahari’s Korranberg Mountains lies Tswalu Kalahari Reserve – South Africa’s largest private game reserve committed to safeguarding the diverse landscapes and wildlife of the Southern Kalahari. With a strong focus on climate change research and conservation, Tswalu is a member of The Long Run twice the size of the Sabi Sand and offers guest a chance to experience conservation and research up-close. Inspired by a new mood of unfiltered adventure, Tswalu, has opened the new Loapi camp – six individually run and operated micro-camps, each spaced 330 ft apart with an environmentally sensitive, modular design. Additionally unique to Loapi is the camps own conservation room where guests can sit with their guide to learn about on-site wildlife, conservation, and climate change research in the Kalahari ecosystem.
Okavango Delta: Because It’s Been a Decade since Becoming a World Heritage Site
In 2024, a decade after achieving its prestigious designation as the 1000th site on UNESCO's World Heritage List, the Okavango Delta remains a captivating marvel of nature. This delta system is distinguished by its status as one of the planet's few major interior deltas that do not flow into a sea or ocean. With its intricate network of waterways, lush greenery, and diverse ecosystems, the Delta presents an unparalleled spectacle of beauty, offering travelers a chance to immerse themselves in a world untouched by human intervention. Within the Delta's embrace lies the Moremi Game Reserve, renowned as Botswana's finest wildlife region. During the end of April 2024, a new addition will join Natural Selection's collection of premium camps in northern Botswana – Tawana. This camp is set to enhance the safari experience for discerning travelers seeking luxury, comfort, and style in the heart of this enchanting wilderness.
Kenya, Tsavo National Park: Because It’s Time to Leave the Safari Car Behind
Stretching over 13,000 miles as Kenya’s largest protected area, Tsavo National Park features awe-inspiring, diverse landscapes from the vast acacia-dotted plains to the ancient lava flows. A stark difference to its Maasai Mara counterpart, Tsavo National Park is home to the Chyulu Hills, Mzima Springs, and the Shetani Lava Flow, the ideal landscape for guests seeking a unique, wellness-focused safari offering in 2024 as wellness travel and connecting with nature continues to take priority on travel plans. Flipping the traditional safari experience on its head, Finch Hattons Luxury Camp encourages guests to get off the safari vehicle for an immersive, intimate encounter with Tsavo National Park and all its parts. A 4:30 a.m. wake-up call for a sunrise hike up the Chyulu Hills brings guests closer to the clouds and sounds of the bush than one can imagine—hiking through a narrow, slightly treacherous path before conquering the mountain as daybreak peaks through. Formed by a fiery magma over 200 years ago, the Shetani Lava Flow stretches almost five miles for the perfect hike, surrounded by the backdrop of the Chyulus and Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance.
Tanzania, Lamai Triangle: Because Safari Design Goes Local
A vibrant new iteration of Singita’s Mara River Tented Camp, the camp’s amplified refurb is a cultural, local celebration that will set the tone for a 2024 stay that is warm, welcoming, and entirely true to its destination on the northernmost tip of the Serengeti. According to insights from American Express Travel’s ‘2023 Global Travel Trends Reports’, 85% of respondents highlighted a desire to immerse themselves in the local culture when traveling (The CEO Magazine). Bold yet relaxed, Mara’s design takes guests a step deeper into the Mara with eye-catching designs inspired by the vibrant colors and patterns of the local Maasai geometrics, including a beaded piece by Side Designs. A rethink of the camp’s six tented suites and main guest area, Mara’s new look pays homage to the colorful shapes and intricate beadwork and patterns of the Kuba tribe, featuring tones of ochre (yellow) and indigo blue. The olive-green color and nomadic-style tents with clean, curved lines on tables, chairs, and vanities emphasize the camp’s immersion in nature with a luxurious and fresh touch. Set to embrace a fresh take on new African flavors, culturally relevant food ingenious to the region will be served, focusing on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients that give guests a taste of East African culinary traditions.
The Serengeti: Because of Uninterrupted Exclusivity
In May 2024, Singita Milele invites travelers to an exclusive villa overlooking the Serengeti, transcending the ordinary while offering a remarkable blend of luxury and immersion in the untamed beauty of Africa. With accommodations for up to ten guests, each of the five individually designed suites, named after the region's iconic wildlife, captures the essence of Africa's creativity with locally sourced elements. From the floor-to-ceiling glass doors that seamlessly connect guests with the Serengeti's landscape to the inviting infinity pools, private jacuzzies, and spacious decks, Singita Milele sets a new standard for luxury travel. The dedicated team at Singita ensures that every safari, wellness experience, and culinary adventure is nothing short of unforgettable, offering a full staff complement and private game vehicles.
Johannesburg: Because It’s the 30th Anniversary of SA Freedom Day
Just minutes from the bustling city of Johannesburg lies a five-star luxury experience at The Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa. The all-suite hotel, which sits on 10-acres of luscious gardens is a hidden oasis that provides a unique blend of cultural history with contemporary touches throughout. Once home to Mandela for six months while he edited his autobiography Long Walk to Freedom, The Saxon Hotel acted as a place of solace and provided Mandela with a space to meet with prominent figures, both domestic and international to assist in ending SA’s apartheid. While this December marks the 30th anniversary of Nelson Mandela receiving the Nobel Peace Prize, April 27, 2024 brings an exciting time to South Africa. It marks the 30th anniversary of Freedom Day—an event of immense significance, marking the end of over three hundred years of colonialism, segregation, and white minority rule, and the establishment of a new democratic government led by Nelson Mandela under a new constitution.
Mandela's presence and legacy are celebrated not only at the Saxon Hotel but also across Johannesburg, with museums, statues, landmarks, and infrastructure named in his honor. This rich tribute makes it the ideal location to commemorate this year's Freedom Day. For those seeking an even deeper connection, the Nelson Mandela Platinum Suite at The Saxon, features bespoke art and furniture that beautifully pay homage to Mandela's Xhosa culture.
