A new year brings resolutions and plans for the future, and for a lot of us, travelling is at the top of our list. Whether you're dreaming of a luxury solo trip, a romantic escape, or finally reaching that dream destination, the time is now. Seeking inspiration? To spark your wanderlust, I've compiled a list of the top ten travel destinations for an extraordinary adventure in 2024.

Aspen, Colorado

Aspen, already renowned as one of the world's most luxurious mountain destinations, is upping its allure this season. The Buttermilk Base Area has undergone a multimillion-dollar renovation, and the introduction of Hero's, a new 153-acre ski terrain on Aspen Mountain's upper part, adds to the excitement. Hero's boasts 1,220 vertical feet of pristine trails and glades, offering an extended season with sustained natural snowfall thanks to its high-elevation, northeast-facing location—a must-visit for winter enthusiasts.

Aspen's dining scene is now adorned with Michelin stars, as Bosq earns the resort's first, while the mountaintop AspenX Beach Club enters its third season with added guest DJs and dining choices for the ultimate après-ski experience. Even shopping gets a chic upgrade, with new boutiques from Fusalp, Gucci, Hermès, and Bottega Veneta enhancing Aspen's fashionable appeal.

The Athenian Riviera

Since the 1950s, savvy locals have been drawn to this pine-dappled peninsula, a well-kept secret until the international spotlight found it a few years ago. The transformation of the Astir Palace Hotel Athens by the Four Seasons, once a haunt for the likes of Frank Sinatra and Brigitte Bardot, turned it into a Hellenic sensation. Following suit, other ultra-chic resorts emerged, drawing global attention to this island-style haven just 30 minutes from Athens.

The main attraction along this riviera is beach-hopping, ranging from family-friendly Varkiza to secluded Legrena and glamorous Astir. Dining options mirror the charm of Santorini or Páros, offering everything from traditional tavernas and souvlaki joints to upscale restaurants. Satisfy your sweet tooth at the generations-old pastry shop Aqua Marina, indulge in seafood delights at beachfront Krabo, savor a special meal at Astir Palace's Michelin-starred Pelagos, and experience quintessential Greek Isles-inspired dancing until dawn at the cliffside Island Club & Restaurant. This once-hidden gem has now become a must-visit destination for those seeking a blend of history, glamour, and seaside enchantment.

Barcelona, Spain

In Barcelona's Eixample district, where travelers casually stroll, enjoy tapas, and explore vibrant shops, the orderly streets and octagonal blocks were envisioned by urban planner Ildefons Cerdà. He introduced this layout in the nineteenth century as a remedy for the Old City's congestion and dirtiness. Antoni Gaudí later added his unique touch with iconic structures like Casa Batlló and the ongoing masterpiece Sagrada Família.

Now, Barcelona is undergoing a refreshing transformation, aiming to breathe new life into its famously crowded streets. An urban-rejuvenation initiative is removing cars from many Eixample roads, transforming them into green havens exclusively for pedestrians and cyclists. The plan envisions creating 21 green streets and spacious squares by 2030, and some are already a reality.

Travelers can easily navigate the pedestrian-friendly Carrer del Consell de Cent, exploring shops and bars. Alternatively, they can venture off the beaten path to the agricultural Parc Agrari del Baix Llobregat, celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2024. This revitalization project promises a greener, more accessible Barcelona for both locals and visitors alike.

Bonaire, Caribbean

Bonaire, a small island in the southern Caribbean next to Aruba and Curaçao, is unique for its absence of stoplights across its 111-square-mile expanse. Beyond the quiet downtown of Kralendijk, the landscape may seem sparse, but hidden behind the palm-lined roadsides lies one of the Caribbean's most thrilling scenes for diving, surfing, and sailing—thanks to the island's persistent trade winds.

Beyond its natural attractions, Bonaire is gaining attention for its vibrant culinary offerings. Brass Boer, led by chef Jonnie Boer from the renowned De Librije in the Netherlands, serves a caviar-topped potato salad in a golden egg. Bagel & Bloom offers Dutch-style homemade bagels, while the Melisa, a 50-foot yacht-restaurant, presents a six-course dinner featuring fresh lobster, wine pairings, and a spectacular sunset view. Before departing, savor the sunset on King’s Beach with a Flamingo gin and tonic from Ocean Oasis, paying homage to the island’s resident flamingo population.

Costa Rica

Covering an impressive 25 percent of Costa Rica, national parks contribute to the country's brag-worthy attributes, including rich biodiversity and a commitment to conservation, making it a favored destination for sustainable tourism. Sean Benner, Latin America product director at G Adventures, notes the booming popularity of Costa Rica, surpassing pre-pandemic traveler numbers.

In response to this demand, G Adventures is expanding its Costa Rica offerings for 2024. The new itineraries feature upscale hotels and enhanced experiences, such as enjoying hot springs near the Arenal volcano and indulging in glamping in the Talamanca Mountains. Additionally, G Adventures is introducing small-group trips to Corcovado National Park, a secluded wildlife haven on the pristine Osa Peninsula.

London, England

London's hotel landscape has always exuded an unparalleled level of sophistication, boasting historic havens like The Goring and Brown's that are steeped in cultural significance. However, a recent wave of premier establishments is elevating the city's standards even further. At the pinnacle of this opulence is the resplendent Raffles London at The OWO, a 120-room marvel that exudes the glamour reminiscent of a Bond film, having served as the backdrop for multiple 007 scenes. Nestled within Winston Churchill's former World War II headquarters, this hotel is a captivating blend of history and luxury.

Adding to the city's allure is the contemporary 190-room Peninsula London, an architectural gem adjacent to Hyde Park in Belgravia, and the nearby Emory, a 61-room sanctuary embodying understated opulence, crafted by the esteemed team behind the regally endorsed Claridge’s. Beyond the realm of hospitality, London beckons with cultural treasures such as the recently reopened National Portrait Gallery, the approaching bicentennial celebration of The National Gallery, and the imminent unveiling of the AI-driven Museum of Shakespeare. With this amalgamation of exquisite accommodations and cultural attractions, there is more than one compelling reason to plan a visit to the dynamic and ever-evolving city.

Luxembourg

Nestled between Germany, France, and Belgium, this diminutive country unveils a treasure trove of over 3,000 miles of hiking trails, showcasing some of Europe's finest and most accessible routes. Take, for instance, the Escapardenne Eislek Trail in the northern Éislek region—recently honored as the inaugural Leading Quality Trail in Europe by the European Ramblers Association. This prestigious designation cements its status as one of Europe's most breathtaking destinations for walkers.

The convenience of an intricately woven public transportation network facilitates a seamless journey, commencing in Luxembourg City before immersing oneself in the wonders of nature. Luxembourgers affectionately dub the Mullerthal region, bordering Germany to the west, "Little Switzerland" for its mystic forests and picturesque valleys. Meanwhile, the southern Minett region, once an iron-ore mining hub, has metamorphosed into a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, accessible through the newly inaugurated 60-mile Minett Trail, meandering along the French border.

Embarking on this trail, hikers have the opportunity to spend their nights in Kabaisercher—a network of hiking lodges creatively repurposed from old schoolhouses, train carriages, and cabins that seemingly float over the waters of former steelworks cooling ponds. The blend of captivating landscapes, cultural richness, and innovative accommodations makes Luxembourg a must-visit for avid trekkers seeking a harmonious union of natural beauty and cultural intrigue.

Paris, France

Paris is set to host the 33rd Summer Olympic Games next July, attracting a multitude of international athletes and spectators. Adding a touch of Parisian grandeur, the opening ceremony's parade of nations will be a groundbreaking spectacle as it unfolds on boats, with competitors cruising along the Seine from the Austerlitz Bridge to the iconic Eiffel Tower. The scenic route will showcase renowned landmarks such as the Notre-Dame cathedral, eagerly anticipated to reopen in late 2024 after a five-year closure.

To ensure you don't miss this extraordinary event, secure your tickets promptly, and leverage the expertise of your travel advisor. Following the games, immerse yourself in the post-event vibrancy at Cravan, Moët Hennessy's newly inaugurated cocktail bar spanning four floors within a meticulously renovated seventeenth-century building in the Saint-Germain neighborhood.

For a culinary experience with panoramic views, head to Créatures, a summer-only restaurant perched atop the Galeries Lafayette. Here, the TikTok-famous chef of the moment, Julien Sebbag, artfully crafts flaky croissants and delectable vegetarian sharing plates, providing a gastronomic delight amidst championship-worthy vistas of the city. Elevate your Parisian experience, combining sportsmanship, culture, and culinary excellence in the heart of this enchanting metropolis.

Riviera Nayarit

Embarking on the enchanting Riviera Nayarit is now effortlessly accessible, thanks to the expanded and rebranded Riviera Nayarit International Airport (also known as Tepic), providing a seamless alternative to the bustling Puerto Vallarta airport. This upgraded gateway is set to host new routes, offering a convenient entry point for travelers eager to witness the upcoming solar eclipse in April.

While the region's hospitality already boasts an A+ rating, there's an exciting influx of luxury projects on the horizon, with renowned names in the industry announcing their ventures in the area over the next few years. Riviera Nayarit's allure extends beyond its pristine coastline, as the lush fusion of rainforest and sea now captivates not only beach enthusiasts but also wildlife aficionados.

Strict adherence to state construction regulations, the presence of seven natural reserves, and collaborative efforts with animal protection groups have transformed the region into a haven for nature lovers. Whale-watching experiences are elevated as boats often enjoy the company of dolphins, sunbathers share the shore responsibly with sea turtles, and keen-eyed observers can delight in spotting over 250 species of birds. The Riviera Nayarit beckons with a harmonious blend of luxury, natural splendor, and a commitment to wildlife preservation.

Valencia, Spain

Valencia, the birthplace of paella and the reputed home of the Holy Grail, has recently earned another accolade as the European Commission's 2024 Green Capital. This vibrant Mediterranean city, Spain's third-largest, captivates visitors with its extensive network of nearly 100 miles of bike paths and a staggering 54 million square feet of lush green spaces, including the expansive Turia Garden and the newly established Parque Central.

Venturing beyond the city limits reveals additional treasures, such as the birding haven of Albufera Natural Park and the Huerta, vast farmlands that play a crucial role in sustaining Valencia's distinctive and hyper-local dining scene. The essence of this bounty can be savored at the Central Market, hailed by Virginia Irurita, founder of Made for Spain & Portugal, as a "genuine market" that remains untouched by touristy transformations. Both locals and renowned chefs frequent the market daily for their culinary needs, adding an authentic and immersive touch to Valencia's gastronomic experience.

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