As 2024 approaches, the world beckons with a diverse array of destinations, each promising unique and unforgettable experiences. At familycircletravel.net, our team of seasoned travel experts has curated a hand-picked list of the best places to travel in 2024, designed for the thoughtful and curious traveler. This guide, meticulously crafted by over 20 Travel + Leisure staffers, spotlights destinations that have ignited our imaginations and are at the top of our editors’ personal travel lists for the coming year.
From the culturally rich Métis Crossing in Canada, featured prominently in our October 2023 issue, to the vibrant city of Istanbul, championed by our editor-in-chief, and the iconic Paris, gearing up for the Les Jeux Olympiques, our selection spans the globe. We also highlight emerging gems, such as the charming small towns of Sonoma County, California, where innovation thrives, the remote and pristine Kimberley region of Australia best explored by expedition ship, and a breathtaking Himalayan sanctuary.
Our aim is to inspire you to broaden your horizons and discover the world anew in 2024. Join us as we explore these exceptional locations, and we look forward to meeting you on your travels.
— Edited by Paul Brady and Maya Kachroo-Levine
Destination by Category
For Cultural Immersion
Ålborg, Denmark
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Alexander Farnsworth/Getty Images
Ålborg, Denmark’s fourth-largest city with a population of approximately 120,000, might initially seem like an unconventional choice for an international travel hotspot. However, Scandinavian Airlines is challenging this perception, confidently investing in this compact and appealing city with new direct flights from Newark Liberty International. Operating three times weekly from April to October, these flights make Ålborg more accessible than ever for North American travelers seeking unique cultural experiences in 2024.
The enchanting old town of Ålborg invites exploration with its cobblestone streets, lined with charming half-timbered houses boasting pastel facades. The attractively revitalized waterfront area, home to the newly renovated Pier 5 Hotel, offers another delightful district for leisurely strolls. Ålborg’s thriving cultural scene is rich and diverse, featuring the Kunsten Museum of Modern Art, the Utzon Center architecture center, and, a short drive away, Regan Vest, a Cold War museum opened in a former bunker in February 2023.
Ålborg serves as an ideal gateway to North Jutland’s broader region, renowned for its dramatic coastline near Skagen, a long-time magnet for Danish artists. Explore the windswept dunes of Thy National Park and discover the 2,000-year-old Viking ring fortresses, recently recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ålborg and North Jutland offer a deep dive into Danish culture and history, making it a compelling destination for cultural immersion in 2024.
Cartagena, Colombia
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Sofia Jaramillo
Cartagena, Colombia, a consistently popular destination, is evolving into a premier luxury escape, particularly within and around its Caribbean coastal city. 2023 saw the arrival of Casa Pestagua, a boutique hotel with 16 rooms housed in a meticulously restored 17th-century building in the historic center, offering an intimate and culturally rich stay. The same owners are expanding their offerings with the planned late-2023 opening of bungalows on Isla Barú, a favored day-trip destination, extending the luxury experience to the idyllic islands surrounding Cartagena.
For travelers prioritizing sustainability, Blue Apple Beach, an eco-hotel on Tierra Bomba Island, just off the coast, provides an excellent option. B Corp certified and generating half of its power from solar energy, Blue Apple Beach exemplifies responsible tourism without sacrificing comfort or style.
2024 will further spotlight Cartagena with the debut of Disney’s “Encanto”-themed tour of Colombia, with Cartagena as a key stop on the itinerary, promising to draw families and Disney enthusiasts to experience the magic of Colombia firsthand. Adding to Cartagena’s accessibility, Delta Air Lines launched new nonstop flights from Atlanta in December 2023. Further enhancing the luxury travel landscape, a Four Seasons hotel is on the horizon, and ongoing national investments in airport expansion are set to accommodate the city’s growing influx of visitors. Cartagena’s blend of historical charm, luxury accommodations, and growing accessibility positions it as a top destination for cultural immersion in 2024.
Eastern & Oriental Express, a Belmond Train
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Courtesy of Belmond
The legendary Eastern & Oriental Express, a Belmond Train, is set to revive its luxurious journeys through Southeast Asia in February after a four-year hiatus, offering an unparalleled cultural immersion experience in 2024. The revamped Express features 15 exquisitely designed cherry wood-clad cabins with vibrant Malay-inspired décor, promising both comfort and cultural richness.
New itineraries include the “Essence of Malaysia” journey, transporting guests from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur, with captivating side excursions to Langkawi for snorkeling in Pulau Payar Marine Park, and Penang, globally recognized as a culinary paradise. The “Wild Malaysia” option includes a stop at Taman Negara National Park, presenting opportunities to encounter rare wildlife such as the Sumatran rhino or tiger.
Belmond CEO Dan Ruff emphasizes the “slow travel” philosophy of these journeys, designed to allow guests to “rest their mind, rekindle, and reconnect,” fostering a deeper appreciation for the cultures traversed. The Eastern & Oriental Express transcends mere transportation; it is a destination in itself, akin to a grand ocean liner. Passengers can indulge in the sultry ambiance of the piano bar car, relax in the open-air lounge adorned with wicker furniture while observing the Malaysian jungle unfold, and savor Peranakan cuisine in the two elegant restaurant carriages. Dining on laksa aboard a luxury train might not have been on your radar for 2024, but it is an experience that should not be missed for those seeking a unique and culturally immersive journey.
Germany
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Christian Kain
Germany is poised to be a global focal point in June and July of 2024 as it hosts the prestigious 2024 UEFA European Football Championship. This quadrennial men’s national team tournament will be staged across 10 German cities, including major hubs like Berlin, Cologne, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Munich, creating a nationwide atmosphere of excitement and cultural celebration.
Sofia Markovich, a travel advisor on T+L’s A-List specializing in Austria and Germany, describes this event as an “incredible, not-to-be-missed moment.” Anticipating a surge in interest rivaling the World Cup, Markovich notes that even casual fans will find the atmosphere electrifying, particularly in host cities and along Germany’s scenic rivers, perfect for river cruises.
Munich, one of the host cities, is particularly noteworthy with the recent opening of the Rosewood Munich in October. This 132-key property, spanning two buildings including the former State Bank of Bavaria headquarters and a Baroque residence, is ideally situated near Old Town’s attractions, such as the verdant Maximiliansplatz. It also offers walkable access to an unexpected European surf spot: the Isar River rapids. Germany in 2024 presents a vibrant blend of sporting fervor and cultural richness, making it a top destination for immersive experiences.
Métis Crossing, Alberta
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Amber Bracken
Métis Crossing in Alberta, Canada, stands out as a leading Indigenous tourism project, offering a profoundly immersive cultural experience in 2024. Juanita Marois, CEO of Métis Crossing, emphasizes that this is not a passive museum experience but “an immersive destination where you experience the culture and the warmth of the Métis people through our land, water, skies, buildings, food, and programs.”
This 688-acre retreat, highlighted in T+L’s October 2023 issue, features a 40-room lodge, a cultural center, and campgrounds. Seasonal activities range from traditional crafts workshops and cultural festivals to bird-watching, canoeing, and snowshoeing, providing year-round engagement with Métis culture and the natural environment.
A recent addition to Métis Crossing is the collection of eight Sky Watching Domes, luxurious standalone suites featuring panoramic skylight windows. Marois explains that from these domes, “guests can listen to Indigenous stories of the night skies, see the stars, and view the aurora borealis,” offering a unique opportunity to connect with Indigenous perspectives on astronomy and nature. Métis Crossing provides a rich, hands-on experience of Métis culture and heritage, making it a standout destination for cultural immersion in 2024.
Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, Georgia
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Getty Images
Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park in central Georgia is on the cusp of becoming a new U.S. National Park in 2024, offering a significant cultural and historical destination. Currently a national historical park, Ocmulgee is home to impressive earthen mounds, including temple complexes, constructed by various Native American peoples over millennia.
If approved by Congress in 2024, Ocmulgee will achieve two milestones: becoming Georgia’s first national park and the first in the U.S. to be co-managed by a nation whose ancestors were forcibly removed from the area. The Muscogee (Creek) Nation, displaced from central Georgia under the Indian Removal Act of 1830, will play a vital role in the park’s future. Tracie Revis, a Muscogee (Creek) Nation member and advocacy director for the Ocmulgee National Park & Preserve Initiative, expresses the significance: “We now have an opportunity to come back and not feel like we are visiting, but to feel like we are coming home.”
Macon, Georgia, serves as the gateway to the park, visibly acknowledging its Muscogee (Creek) heritage with the nation’s flag flying alongside the U.S. flag and street signs in both Muscogee and English. September is an ideal time to visit, coinciding with Macon’s annual Indigenous film festival. Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, with its rich history and evolving co-management structure, offers a powerful and culturally significant destination for 2024.
Rajasthan, India
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Aparna Jayakumar
Rajasthan, India’s northwestern state, is a renowned destination for U.S. travelers, celebrated for its iconic hotels and rich cultural attractions. In 2024, Rajasthan, particularly Jaipur, promises fresh allure with several new hotel openings adding to its already impressive hospitality landscape.
Jaipur welcomes Villa Palladio, a charming nine-room hotel on the city’s outskirts, created by the team behind the Instagram-famous Bar Palladio in Jaipur’s center. The Johri, a beautifully designed five-room property, is nestled in a heritage townhouse in Jaipur’s Old Town, featuring a chic cocktail bar and organic vegetarian restaurant. Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas is also set to launch its first Indian property in Jaipur. The new-build Anantara Jaipur Hotel, boasting 150 rooms, is designed with India’s growing destination wedding market in mind, offering event facilities for up to 2,500 guests.
Accessibility to Jaipur and Rajasthan is improving with a new six-lane expressway connecting Jaipur to New Delhi, a major international flight hub. Rajasthan’s blend of historical grandeur, new luxury accommodations, and enhanced connectivity solidifies its position as a top cultural destination in 2024.
Shinta Mani Mustang, Nepal
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Courtesy of Shinta Mani Mustang
Nepal’s Mustang district, once a forbidden kingdom opened to outsiders in 1992, is emerging as a must-visit destination in 2024, largely due to the opening of the stunning Shinta Mani Mustang hotel in August 2023. This 29-suite hotel from the Bensley Collection delivers the luxurious wellness experiences and thoughtful design synonymous with the brand.
Guests can spend their days trekking through the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, seeking out rare wildlife like the Pallas’s cat and Tibetan wolf, enjoying horseback riding adventures, and exploring local villages, offering a unique blend of cultural and natural immersion. Carole Cambata, an advisor on T+L’s A-List specializing in Himalayan travel, highlights the hotel’s commitment to “sustainable and responsible tourism,” noting the use of local building materials and Indigenous construction methods.
This noteworthy opening coincides with positive developments in Nepal’s tourism sector. In April, the Nepal Mountaineering Academy and the Nepal Tourism Board partnered to train Nepal’s first class of LGBTQ+ trekking guides, aiming to enhance inclusivity in the hiking and climbing industries. John Clifford, another A-List advisor, points out Nepal’s progressive stance on LGBTQ+ rights in Asia, citing laws against gender identity discrimination and inclusive visa options. Shinta Mani Mustang, combined with Nepal’s increasing inclusivity and natural beauty, positions Mustang as a leading destination for culturally conscious and adventurous travelers in 2024.
Tallinn, Estonia
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Nina Ruggiero/Travel + Leisure
Tallinn, Estonia, a city in a country consistently ranking high in European literacy and education, offers a compelling cultural destination, especially with Tartu, Estonia’s university city, designated as Europe’s Capital of Culture for 2024. However, Tallinn, the capital, remains an ideal starting point for exploring the Baltics, boasting a UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, renowned as one of the best-preserved medieval architectural ensembles globally.
Tallinn’s cultural landscape is further enriched by the PoCo Art Museum, opened in May, featuring pop art from masters like Andy Warhol and Banksy. This museum joins nearly 50 other art institutions in the city, including Fotografiska (photography), Kumu Art Museum (Estonian contemporary art), and Kadriorg Art Museum (early European and Russian art).
Beyond its historical and artistic offerings, Tallinn’s Noblessner district, a revitalized industrial shipyard area on the seafront, is now a vibrant hub with stylish cafes, shops, and Estonia’s first two-Michelin-starred restaurant, 180° by Matthias Diethe. For a unique Estonian experience, try a “smoke sauna” at the Scandi-chic Iglupark. Accommodation options include the new Nunne Boutique Hotel, offering views of Old Town’s Towers Square. Tallinn’s blend of medieval charm, contemporary culture, and modern amenities makes it a top destination for cultural exploration in 2024.
Warsaw, Poland
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Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure
Warsaw, Poland, is set to significantly enhance its thriving contemporary art scene in 2024 with the long-awaited opening of the Museum of Modern Art in Warsaw in its dedicated headquarters. Founded in 2005, the museum has been a vital force in shaping Warsaw’s art reputation, despite operating from temporary spaces for two decades, and is known for its impressive collection of both Polish and international art.
The new museum will be central to a 22-acre arts district surrounding the iconic Palace of Culture and Science, a Stalinist-era skyscraper dominating the city skyline. Designed by Thomas Phifer and Partners, the architecture firm behind the Glenstone Museum in Maryland and parts of New York’s Corning Museum of Glass, the museum and the adjacent 800-seat TR Warszaw Theater promise to be architectural landmarks.
Warsaw’s commitment to contemporary art, highlighted by this major museum opening, along with established art institutions like the Foksal Gallery Foundation and Raster Gallery, positions it as a key destination for art enthusiasts and cultural travelers in 2024.
For the Food and Drinks
The Austrian Countryside
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Kevin West
Venture south of Vienna to discover the Austrian countryside, home to Styria and Burgenland, regions that embody fairytale charm and offer exceptional food and drink experiences in 2024. Styria, with its rolling hills and hiking trails, centers around the medieval city of Graz. Burgenland, a mellow and rural region, is home to Lake Neusiedl, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, adding natural beauty to its culinary appeal.
Both Styria and Burgenland boast long and rich winemaking traditions, recently becoming hubs for a burgeoning natural wine scene. Must-visit cult producers include Winery Maria and Sepp Muster in Styria, and Burgenland’s acclaimed vintners Gut Oggau and Meinklang, offering unique tasting experiences for wine connoisseurs.
Enhance your Austrian countryside visit with a stay at Rosewood Schloss Fuschl, a meticulously restored 15th-century castle set to open in spring 2024 on the shores of a small lake near Salzburg. The Austrian countryside, with its blend of natural wine, charming landscapes, and luxury accommodations, presents an idyllic destination for food and drink enthusiasts in 2024.
Mérida, Mexico
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Itzel Garrido/Travel + Leisure
Mérida, the capital of Yucatán, Mexico, has long been a favored destination for Mexican travelers, drawn to its Mayan ruins, stunning cenotes, restored haciendas, and exceptional cuisine. Now, Mérida is gaining international acclaim, particularly among LGBTQ+ travelers, who often describe Yucatán as exceptionally gay-friendly, making it a welcoming and culturally rich destination in 2024.
Mérida’s historic beauty and relaxed cantina culture have made it increasingly popular with LGBTQ+ retirees, who are settling in the city and attracting more visitors. Travelers can choose from numerous designer hotels carved out of stately mansions and enjoy diverse shopping and food tours, both within the city and in the surrounding countryside, punctuated with haciendas hosting pop-up events and overnight stays.
The planned “Yucatán Central Park,” promising a food market and amphitheater, and the nearing completion of the Maya Train, intended to facilitate travel between Mérida and coastal destinations like Cancún and Tulum, are anticipated developments that will further enhance Mérida’s appeal. Mérida’s combination of historical charm, culinary delights, and growing accessibility makes it a prime destination for food and drink lovers and cultural explorers in 2024.
Sonoma County, California
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Gentl & Hyers
Sonoma County, California, more than twice the size of Napa, offers a diverse range of experiences, making it a top destination for food and drink in 2024. While renowned for its wine, especially with the addition of the new West Sonoma Coast AVA, bringing the total to 19 AVAs known for chardonnay, pinot noir, and zinfandel from established wineries like Flowers and Scribe and newer ventures like Vérité Wines, Sonoma offers much more.
Explore the extensive coastline from Bodega Bay to Sea Ranch, where the beautifully renovated cliff-top Sea Ranch Lodge awaits. Inland, the opening of Dawn Ranch highlights Guerneville, a charming town along the Russian River known for its LGBTQ+ scene and proximity to Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve. Dawn Ranch itself, a 22-acre haven with treehouse-like cabins, creekside glamping tents, and redwood tubs at the spa, invites relaxation and nature immersion.
Guerneville also boasts the reimagined Piknik Market, serving Oprah’s favorite biscuits. Sonoma County’s culinary scene is evolving, shaped by renowned chefs. In Healdsburg, Noma alum Stu Stalker opened the plant-based Second Story, joining Michelin three-starred SingleThread and chef Dustin Valette’s The Matheson. Restaurant powerhouse Charlie Palmer plans to launch his hotel brand, Appellation, in Healdsburg by the end of next year. Sonoma County’s blend of wine, culinary innovation, and natural beauty makes it a leading destination for food and drink experiences in 2024.
For Big-city Thrills
Bangkok
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Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure
Bangkok, Thailand, a classic Asian megacity, is undergoing significant transformations, making it an exciting destination for big-city thrills in 2024. Jack Tydeman, a Southeast Asia specialist at Audley Travel and T+L’s A-List member, describes Bangkok as “frenetic, neon-lit, and overwhelming to the senses,” yet evolving with major projects.
Dusit Central Park, slated to open in 2024, will feature the 259-room Dusit Thani Bangkok Hotel and a multi-terraced roof park, adding green space to the urban landscape. King Rama IX Memorial Park, honoring the sustainability initiatives of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, is also forthcoming. Lumpini Park, Bangkok’s original public green space, is undergoing a significant refresh for its centennial, adding a new food hall, vegetable farm, and sports club.
Despite these developments, Bangkok is also emphasizing wellness. Virtuoso, a luxury travel network, recently named Thailand as an “emerging self-care destination,” noting a growing demand for spiritual journeys beyond traditional Thai massage. The upcoming Aman Nai Lert Bangkok, expected in 2024, will cater to this trend with 52 spacious suites overlooking Nai Lert Park and a multi-floor wellness sanctuary. Bangkok’s blend of vibrant city life, new urban developments, and growing wellness offerings positions it as a top destination for big-city thrills in 2024.
Cleveland
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Courtesy of Cleveland Museum of Natural History
Cleveland, Ohio, is set to shine in 2024, offering big-city thrills with national and international events, cultural expansions, and historic hotel revivals. The year begins in April with the NCAA Women’s Final Four at the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse and a total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, promising a spectacular celestial event. Cleveland will also host the Pan-American Masters Games in July and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony, returning home in November after being held in Brooklyn in 2023.
Cultural institutions are undergoing significant revitalization. The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is nearing completion of a $150 million expansion, featuring updated exhibits and new public spaces. Karamu House, the nation’s oldest Black producing theater, will debut a new restaurant, outdoor stage, and venue in the Fairfax neighborhood. The city’s oldest hotel will reopen in 2024 as the Marriott Autograph Collection Hotel Cleveland, and the Fidelity Hotel, a new boutique property with a speakeasy, is set to launch downtown.
Developments along the Cuyahoga River and Lake Erie are enhancing the waterfront with paved hiking and biking trails, revitalizing underutilized areas. Cleveland’s dynamic blend of events, cultural enhancements, and urban development makes it a compelling destination for big-city experiences in 2024.
Fort Worth, Texas
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Mariah Tyler
Fort Worth, Texas, known for its classic Western experiences like bull riding and cattle drives, is booming, generating $3 billion in tourism revenue last year alone, making it a surprising destination for big-city thrills in 2024. Luxury hotels are flocking to Cowtown’s Cultural District to meet this growing demand.
The Crescent Hotel, Fort Worth, opened in November, featuring the first Canyon Ranch wellness club and a Mediterranean restaurant by Food Network chef Preston Paine. Bowie House, Auberge Resorts Collection, is slated to open in December 2023, offering a tree-lined pool terrace, chic spa, and upscale chophouse, Bricks and Horses.
Within walking distance of these hotels is The National Cowgirl Museum, hosting a 2024 exhibit honoring the Mexican escaramuza charra horseback riding tradition. Looking ahead, the National Juneteenth Museum is scheduled to open in the city’s Historic Southside neighborhood in 2025, adding cultural depth to Fort Worth’s offerings. Fort Worth’s blend of Western heritage, luxury accommodations, and cultural developments positions it as a dynamic big-city destination in 2024.
Istanbul
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Getty Images
Istanbul, Turkey’s style capital, is experiencing a resurgence of vibrancy along the Bosphorus, making it a top destination for big-city thrills in 2024. The Galataport, the world’s first underground cruise ship terminal with a pedestrian promenade and the Renzo Piano-designed Istanbul Museum of Modern Art, is a significant new anchor.
Another neighborhood highlight is the 177-room Peninsula Hotel, spread across four buildings, three dating back to the early 1900s. It features a stunning pool overlooking the Hagia Sophia, a subterranean spa, and Gallada, a rooftop restaurant by chef Fatih Tutak, whose eponymous restaurant holds two Michelin stars, Turkey’s first. Hotel staff wear stylish uniforms by designer Arzu Kaprol, who has a boutique in the Paket Postanesi, a historic post office turned shopping mall.
In Beşiktaş, the lavish Çırağan Palace Kempinski has been reimagined by local interior designer Serdar Gülgün, with rooms reflecting Ottoman-era grandeur. The Basilica Cistern, reopened after a five-year closure, now hosts contemporary art exhibits amidst its ancient columns. Istanbul’s blend of historical sites, modern developments, and vibrant cultural scene positions it as a thrilling big-city destination in 2024.
Kansas City, Missouri
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Jonathan Tasler/Courtesy of Visit KC
Kansas City, Missouri, traditionally known for barbecue and jazz, is now establishing itself as a global leader in sports and entertainment, making it a surprising and exciting destination for big-city thrills in 2024. Beyond the buzz around Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, Kansas City is making significant strides.
In March, the Kansas City Current of the National Women’s Soccer League will open the first-ever purpose-built stadium for women’s pro sports. Katie Mabry van Dieren, CEO of The Strawberry Swing and Shop Local KC, notes this stadium will be a “destination for sports lovers and will inspire generations of girls to follow their dreams.”
The stadium’s construction has spurred further development, including the forthcoming Origen Hotel KC, the massive Berkley Beer Garden, and an extension of the KC Streetcar to the Berkley Riverfront area. The Rock Island Bridge, the country’s first entertainment district of its kind, a reclaimed rail crossing over the Kansas River, is also coming soon. This High Line-inspired project will connect Kansas City, Missouri, and Kansas City, Kansas, offering two levels of entertainment with restaurants, bars, and event spaces. Kansas City’s dynamic growth in sports and entertainment positions it as a thrilling big-city destination in 2024.
Las Vegas
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Raf Willems/Getty Images
Las Vegas, Nevada, continues to amplify its reputation for extravagance and entertainment, solidifying its status as a top destination for big-city thrills in 2024. Building on blockbuster residencies from Adele, Katy Perry, and Lady Gaga, U2 launched their inaugural performances at the highly anticipated Sphere this fall. Filmmaker Darren Aronofsky’s immersive sci-fi production “Postcard from Earth” will also showcase the Sphere’s 16K LED display into 2024.
Formula 1 and Netflix’s Formula 1: Drive to Survive have broadened the sport’s American fanbase, and the Las Vegas Grand Prix will race on The Strip in November 2023 and again in November 2024. Las Vegas will host Super Bowl LVIII on February 11, 2024, at Allegiant Stadium, marking Nevada’s first Super Bowl.
Adding to the city’s allure, the 67-story Fontainebleau Las Vegas will open in December, featuring 3,700 rooms and buzzy restaurants, including a Casa Dragones Tasting Room and a Chinese noodle den from the restaurateur behind Wagamama and Hakkasan. Las Vegas’s continuous expansion in entertainment, sports, and luxury accommodations ensures its place as a thrilling big-city destination in 2024.
Louisville, Kentucky
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Nick Simonite/Courtesy of Hotel Genevieve
Louisville, Kentucky, is gearing up for a landmark year in 2024, offering big-city thrills centered around the 150th anniversary of the Kentucky Derby on May 4, 2024. This milestone coincides with the debut of the redesigned Churchill Downs Paddock, completing a multi-year, $200 million renovation. The Kentucky Derby Museum provides year-round opportunities to explore the event’s history, including exhibits on Black horsemen’s contributions to racing.
New hotels are enhancing Louisville’s hospitality scene. Derby City Hotel, a Canopy by Hilton property, will open downtown this summer with 168 rooms, a rooftop pool, and bar. Other new options include The Myriad Hotel, Common Bond Hotel Collection, and the trendy Hotel Genevieve by Bunkhouse Group.
“Ali,” a musical about the Louisville icon Muhammad Ali, will premiere at the Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts in the fall. The spirits scene is also vibrant, with the launch of Bourbon and Belonging – Kentucky’s Queer Bourbon Week, a statewide celebration from October 3-6, 2024, featuring events in Louisville and beyond. Louisville’s blend of historic events, new attractions, and cultural celebrations makes it a thrilling big-city destination in 2024.
Montreal
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Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure
Montreal, Canada, offering a European ambiance without crossing the Atlantic, is increasingly relevant in 2024, thanks to forward-thinking infrastructure making it one of North America’s greenest and most visitor-friendly cities, offering big-city thrills with a sustainable edge. The Réseau Express Métropolitain (REM), a new automated light rail system, is described by Canada’s Globe and Mail as “[Montreal’s biggest public transit project in more than half a century],” with expanding stations, all designed for universal accessibility.
The Grand Quay, a central pier for cruise ships, features the new Port of Montreal Tower, an observation spire echoing the iconic Habitat 67. Montreal’s bike-sharing program, Bixi, launched in 2009, remains popular, offering an affordable monthly pass and supported by 560 miles of bike lanes.
Recent hotel renovations and openings enhance Montreal’s luxury offerings, including the renovated Vogue Hotel Montreal Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton, and the new Honeyrose Hotel, Montreal, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, joining the Four Seasons. Montreal’s extensive hotel capacity and location in the path of totality for the April 8 eclipse make it an ideal last-minute destination for eclipse watchers. Montreal’s blend of European charm, sustainable infrastructure, and new attractions positions it as a top big-city destination in 2024.
Paris
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Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure
Paris, France, will be a global stage in summer 2024, hosting 329 sporting events, making it the ultimate destination for big-city thrills. The city will showcase the 2024 Summer Olympic Games (July 26-August 11) and Paralympic Games (August 28-September 8), with events throughout iconic locations. Breakdancing will debut at Place de la Concorde, beach volleyball will be near the Eiffel Tower, and the opening ceremony’s Parade of Nations will proceed down the Seine River.
Paris is welcoming visitors with a wave of new hotels and restaurants. Chateau des Fleurs is a new extravagant hotel in the eighth arrondissement with 19th-century style and an haute Korean restaurant. Designer Martin Brudnizki unveiled two projects: the 50-room Grand Mazarin in the Marais, and La Fantaisie in the ninth. The Hôtel Dame Des Arts, featured on T+L’s 2023 It List, unveiled their train-themed Hôtel des Grand Voyageurs in Saint-Germain-des-Prés in October.
Legacy establishments are also revitalized. Hotel Plaza Athénée, named the best hotel in Paris by T+L readers, features Jean Imbert au Plaza Athénée, a French restaurant with two Michelin stars, and a new Dior Spa. La Tour d’Argent restaurant has undergone a sensational facelift. Museums and institutions will host sports-related exhibitions and events throughout the summer. New cultural attractions include La Galerie Dior and Fragonard Musée du Parfum. Paris in 2024, with the Olympics and its continuous cultural and hospitality innovations, is the definitive big-city thrill destination.
For Moments on the Water
Coastal Alaska
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Nina Ruggiero/Travel + Leisure
Coastal Alaska is experiencing a cruise revival, making it a premier destination for water-based moments in 2024. Cruising is significantly back, with Alaska’s Inside Passage leading the resurgence. In 2023, ships like Regent’s Seven Seas Explorer and Carnival’s Luminosa visited for the first time, and Royal Caribbean reintroduced Brilliance of the Seas.
The new Klawock port on Prince of Wales Island is set to welcome large ships in 2024, offering food, retail, Indigenous culture exhibits, and nature trails. Skagway, a renowned port near Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park and the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway, is adding a 550-foot floating pier to accommodate two megaships simultaneously in 2024.
Alaska’s cruise season is extending; Norwegian Cruise Line offered October sailings in 2023, allowing passengers to experience a quieter Alaskan season. With Alaska projected to host 1.65 million cruise travelers on approximately 700 voyages this year, shoulder season trips in 2024 may offer a less crowded experience. Coastal Alaska, with its stunning scenery and cruise infrastructure enhancements, is a top destination for water-based travel moments in 2024.
Coastal Norway
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Sebastian Lamberg Torjusen/Courtesy of Salmon Eye
Coastal Norway, long celebrated for design and architecture, is expanding its attractions, making it a remarkable destination for water-based moments in 2024. Katrine Mosfjeld, CMO of Visit Norway, confirms a “surge in new attractions” in recent years.
In seaside Oslo, the new luxury hotel Sommero, within a 1930 landmark building by architects Andreas Bjercke and Georg Eliassen, exemplifies adaptive reuse. Kristiansand, four hours southwest, will unveil Kunstsilo, or Art Silo, in 2024, repurposing an industrial complex into a Nordic modernist art museum. Bergen features Iris Expedition Dining, a new tasting-menu destination in Hardangerfjord, within a floating sculpture called Salmon Eye.
North of the Arctic Circle, Six Senses Svart, a highly anticipated ring-shaped resort at the Svartisen glacier base, aims to be off-grid, carbon-neutral, and emissions-free, with a zero-waste dining program and a “design lab.” Coastal Norway’s blend of innovative attractions, luxury accommodations, and commitment to sustainability makes it a leading destination for unique water-based experiences in 2024.
Douro River, Portugal
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Courtesy of Tauck
The Douro River in Portugal, once an overlooked wine tourism destination, is now essential, offering exceptional water-based moments in 2024. Sheree M. Mitchell, a T+L A-List advisor based in Portugal, emphasizes the Douro River as “non-negotiable,” recommending yacht charters for visiting quintas (wine estates) and Michelin-starred restaurants like Castas e Pratos.
River cruises are a more accessible option, with lines expanding their Douro presence. Tauck, a T+L reader favorite, launched the Andorinha in 2021, sailing 33 wine-country itineraries in 2024. Viking will have four ships on the Douro, visiting towns like Peso da Régua and Pinhão. AmaWaterways announced a special November 2024 departure exploring Black and African diaspora history in Lisbon and along the Douro.
Douro River cruises and charters offer immersive experiences in Portugal’s wine country, combining scenic beauty with culinary and cultural richness, making it a top destination for water-based travel in 2024.
Faroe Islands
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Line Klein
The remote and stunning Faroe Islands in the North Atlantic are now more accessible, offering unique water-based moments in 2024. Atlantic Airways launched nonstop flights from New York Stewart International to Vágar Airport in summer 2023, significantly improving access for U.S. travelers. Atlantic Airways CEO Jóhanna á Bergi describes this direct flight as “creating a bridge between two worlds.”
Melissa Lee, a Northern Europe specialist on T+L’s A-List, has observed increased interest in the Faroes, previously accessible mainly from Copenhagen or Reykjavik. Adventure awaits, including cold-water surfing, traditional knitting, and hiking to Sørvágsvatn, the “lake above the ocean.”
Dining experiences include Roks in Tórshavn, an offshoot of Koks, Greenland’s Michelin two-starred restaurant (currently on hiatus). The Faroe Islands, with improved accessibility and unique cultural and natural attractions, are a compelling destination for adventurous water-based travel in 2024.
Kimberley, Australia
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Bruno Cazarini/Courtesy of Silversea Cruises
Kimberley, in northwest Australia, presents ancient wonders and is becoming a top destination for expedition-style water-based adventures in 2024. The Kimberleys region is home to dinosaur tracks, the Bungle Bungles geological formations (350 million years old), waterfalls, reefs, and Aboriginal history from what is considered the world’s oldest continuous culture.
Top cruise lines are offering expedition itineraries combining history with modern adventures like helicopter sightseeing, paddling, Zodiac tours, scuba diving, and cultural excursions. Silversea will have its Silver Cloud in the region from May to September, with 10- to 17-day trips for up to 200 passengers. Seabourn’s newest expedition ship, the Seabourn Pursuit, will cruise the region in June, July, and August.
Australian companies like Coral Expeditions and True North Adventure Cruises, and private yacht charters via Yotspace, also operate in this region. Kimberley’s ancient landscapes and increasing expedition cruise options make it an exceptional destination for adventurous water-based travel in 2024.
The Mississippi River
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Courtesy of Viking
The Mississippi River, one of America’s most historic waterways, is seeing renewed interest with new ships, making it a compelling destination for river cruising in 2024. Adam Peakes, president of Hornblower Group (parent of American Queen Voyages), emphasizes the Mississippi River’s historical significance. American Queen Voyages will have two ships on the Mississippi in 2024, with summer bookings filling rapidly.
Viking launched the Viking Mississippi in 2022, featuring 193 Scandi-chic suites with private verandas. American Cruise Lines has launched three new Mississippi ships in the past three years. Onshore attractions are also developing. Memphis’s newly completed Tom Lee Park features art by Theaster Gates and a pavilion named for Tyre Nichols, connected to the city via the River Line path.
Natchez, Mississippi, is revitalizing with young natives returning with new ideas, hosting Central European-style holiday markets in December. St. Louis recently opened the 21c Museum Hotel in a century-old YMCA building, featuring art installations and an all-day cafe. And New Orleans remains a perennial draw. The Mississippi River, with new ships and revitalized onshore destinations, offers a compelling river cruise experience in 2024.
Queen Anne
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Courtesy of Cunard
The Queen Anne, Cunard’s first new ocean liner since 2010, launches in May 2024, promising iconic transatlantic crossings and Mediterranean voyages, making it a top water-based destination. Departing from Southampton, England, the 1,498-cabin Queen Anne will sail to Lisbon and spend its first summer in the Mediterranean, representing an evolution for the 183-year-old brand.
Queen Anne will feature four new restaurants, including an omakase venue and an Indian dining room, alongside classic options like the Princess Grill and Queens Grill, overseen with chef Michel Roux, Jr. A top-deck wellness studio and yoga/fitness classes are new additions. Inger Klein Thorhauge will be the first woman captain for Cunard.
Familiar traditions remain, including high tea and the Golden Lion pub with Cunard’s microbrews. The Queen Anne combines Cunard’s legacy with modern luxury and innovation, making it a premier water-based travel destination in 2024.
Seven Seas Grandeur
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Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises
The Seven Seas Grandeur, launching in November 2023, will be Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ sixth ship, offering luxurious all-inclusive cruises and making it a top water-based destination for 2024. Regent Seven Seas Cruises is consistently favored by T+L readers for all-inclusive pricing and luxurious suites. Seven Seas Grandeur will feature enhanced dining, shore excursions, and entertainment, building on ships like Seven Seas Splendor and Seven Seas Explorer, according to brand president Andrea DeMarco.
“Grandeur is inspired by our rich heritage, but we’re reimagining signature restaurants and offering 15 exceptional suite categories to only 746 guests,” DeMarco explains. Features include a multimillion-dollar, 1,600-piece art collection with Picassos and a custom Fabergé Egg. Sarah Fabergé, director of special projects for the jewelry house, is the ship’s godmother.
Grandeur’s inaugural season will be in the Caribbean, then the Mediterranean in April, before returning to the U.S. in August. Seven Seas Grandeur promises unparalleled luxury and all-inclusive cruising, making it a top water-based destination in 2024.
For Nature Lovers
Amboseli National Park, Kenya
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Neema Ngelime/Travel + Leisure
Amboseli National Park in Kenya, near the Tanzanian border, renowned for exceptional wildlife, especially elephants, is a must-visit for nature lovers in 2024. This 151-square-mile park is famous for its large elephant herds and diverse wildlife, including cheetah, giraffe, and zebra.
The fall 2023 opening of Angama Amboseli, a richly appointed 10-suite lodge, is a significant addition. It’s the first spinoff of Angama Mara, considered among the world’s best safari lodges by T+L readers. Located about 45 minutes from Amboseli National Park on a private wildlife conservancy, Angama Amboseli offers game drives and cultural experiences with local communities.
Angama Amboseli boasts unparalleled views of Mount Kilimanjaro, visible from private patios in every suite. Amboseli National Park and Angama Amboseli offer a luxurious and immersive nature experience in 2024, particularly for wildlife enthusiasts.
Aspen Mountain, Colorado
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Jesse Hoffman/Courtesy of Aspen Snowmass
Aspen Mountain, Colorado, a legendary ski destination, is undergoing its most significant upgrade in four decades, making it a top destination for nature and ski enthusiasts in 2024. A new high-speed quad lift, Hero’s, opens this season, accessing 153 acres of fresh powder, increasing skiable terrain by about 20 percent, with over a dozen new chutes, glades, and trails for intermediate and expert skiers.
Maureen Poschman of the Aspen Chamber Resort Association calls the quad “a game-changer for Aspen,” noting the high-altitude terrain as a “hedge against climate change.” Aspen is evolving beyond skiing, attracting new residents and expanding its cultural calendar. Balenciaga and Hermès now have shops downtown, and trendy restaurants like Sant Ambroeus are opening.
Mollie Aspen, the newest luxury hotel, opens in December with 68 rooms by Post Company, a rooftop plunge pool, and terrace, centrally located. Aspen Mountain’s ski terrain expansion and vibrant town atmosphere make it a premier nature destination in 2024.
Big Sky, Montana
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Mark Hartman
Big Sky, Montana, near Yellowstone National Park, offers vast wilderness and outdoor activities, making it a prime destination for nature lovers in 2024. Activities include fly fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and skiing. One&Only is set to bring luxury to Big Sky in 2024 with a new retreat.
One&Only Moonlight Basin, with 73 rooms, is situated between Lone Mountain and the Spanish Peaks, providing access to 5,850 skiable acres via a dedicated gondola, a private ski lodge, and a Chenot spa. It will also include 19 villas and 62 private residences, marking One&Only’s first U.S. outpost.
Montage Big Sky, another five-star resort, opened in 2021 with 139 rooms, six dining venues, a bowling alley, a spa, and ski-in, ski-out access. Big Sky, with its expansive outdoor recreation and new luxury accommodations, is a leading nature destination in 2024.
Hokkaido, Japan
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Courtesy of Club Med
Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is attracting travelers beyond Tokyo and Kyoto, offering exceptional nature experiences in 2024. Hokkaido is known for food, including Sapporo miso ramen, and Shiretoko National Park, with hiking and waterfalls. It is also a premier ski destination with phenomenal snow.
Niseko village is the ski center, with easier access thanks to the 2022 opening of Club Med Kiroro. Club Med Kiroro includes Club Med Kiroro Peak (ages 12+) and the new-in-2023 Club Med Kiroro Grand (family-friendly). These all-inclusive resorts simplify Japanese ski trips, covering accommodations, equipment, entertainment, and kids’ clubs.
Club Med Kiroro Grand features the brand’s first Japanese onsen and wellness facilities. Hokkaido, with its natural beauty, culinary scene, and accessible ski resorts, is a top nature destination in 2024.
KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
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Sven Musica/Courtesy of Madwaleni River Lodge – Babanango Game Reserve
KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa, on the eastern coast, is gaining prominence, offering diverse nature experiences in 2024. Julian Harrison, a safari expert on T+L’s A-List, notes KZN’s two World Heritage Sites: iSimangaliso Wetland Park and uKhahlamba Drakensberg National Park, along with beaches, safari parks, and temperate weather.
Babanango Game Reserve in KZN is an ambitious rewilding project, reintroducing species like black rhino and elephant since 2018. andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve is involved in conservation efforts, monitoring Temminck’s ground pangolins. Madwaleni River Lodge, newly opened, is recommended by A-List expert Raza Visram, featuring 12 tents overlooking the White Umfolozi River.
Sala Beach House, an oceanfront escape on Thompson’s Bay, and The Homestead, a 12-suite eco-lodge in Nambiti Game Reserve (coming soon), are other lodging options. KwaZulu-Natal, with its conservation efforts and diverse natural attractions, is a significant nature destination in 2024.
Mababe, Botswana
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Dana Allen/Courtesy of Wilderness
Mababe, Botswana, in one of Africa’s most exclusive safari destinations, offers a unique and temporary nature experience in 2024. Botswana features numerous five-star lodges. Mokete, a new safari lodge from Wilderness, is notable for its temporary nature; it will exist only until 2026, emphasizing minimal environmental impact.
Located east of the Okavango Delta in the 124,000-acre Mababe Concession, Mokete has populations of lion, elephant, buffalo, and diverse birds. Wildlife viewing is central, with game drives and nature walks. Mokete emphasizes connection with nature; each of its nine suites has a retractable roof for stargazing and hearing wildlife. Mababe and Mokete offer an elemental and exclusive nature destination for 2024.
New Zealand
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Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure
New Zealand, now more accessible, is a prime nature destination in 2024. Delta launched Los Angeles-Auckland service, and United plans San Francisco-Christchurch routes in December, joining Air New Zealand’s Auckland-New York City nonstop route launched in 2022.
Sarah Farag, T+L’s A-List member based in Auckland, states, “Any time of year is a great time to visit,” highlighting summer (December-March), autumn colors, winter stargazing, and spring fishing/hiking. New accommodations include exclusive-use villas at Flockhill Lodge and Clifftops at Anderson Cove tented camp.
Christchurch has new boutique hotels: Mayfair and Observatory Hotel. Huka Lodge in Taupo is being renovated. Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve and the new Tom Doak-designed golf course at Te Arai Links enhance outdoor attractions. New Zealand’s increased accessibility and diverse natural and luxury offerings make it a top nature destination in 2024.
For Beach Vibes
Anna Maria Island, Florida
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Flavio Vallenari/Getty Images
Anna Maria Island, Florida, south of Tampa Bay, is an under-the-radar gem offering authentic beach vibes in 2024. Known for no-high-rise shorelines, sunsets, and small-town feel, Anna Maria Island is a place where golf carts and beach cruisers are common transport, and sherbet-hued clapboard homes are mostly vacation rentals.
The Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau partnered with Leave No Trace, making Anna Maria Florida’s first destination to work with the nonprofit, emphasizing sustainability. New developments align with the island’s vibe. Mello on the Beach, opened in July, offers retro-style apartments on the Gulf of Mexico, and Joie Inn villas, opened in 2021, remain fresh.
Doctor’s Office cocktail bar recently added a “dining room,” and Bohemian restaurant from chef Jeannie Pierola is coming soon. Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport has added new domestic nonstop destinations in 2023, with a planned terminal expansion. Anna Maria Island’s low-key charm and sustainable approach make it a top beach destination in 2024.
Coastal Campania, Italy
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Courtesy of Hotel La Palma
Coastal Campania, Italy, home to Amalfi, Capri, Positano, and Sorrento, is experiencing a hotel boom, making it a luxurious beach destination in 2024. Campania’s coastal appeal has driven a hotel renaissance. Il Capri Hotel opened last spring, offering boutique lodging in a neo-Gothic villa. Oetker Collection, of Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, debuted its first Italian hotel, the glamorous 50-room Hotel La Palma, in June, revitalizing an 1822 property. Convento di Amalfi, a 52-room Anantara in a 13th-century Capuchin convent, features a cliffside pool.
Airlines are responding to increased demand; American Airlines and Delta are launching new routes to Naples from Philadelphia and New York City, respectively. Lindblad Expeditions will have its new Sea Cloud II in southern Italy in May for an 11-day itinerary to Pompeii and Amalfi Coast villages, focusing on Italian food and wine. Coastal Campania’s luxury hotels and improved accessibility solidify its position as a top beach destination in 2024.
Costa Rica
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Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure
Costa Rica, the land of pura vida, is consistently improving, named T+L’s 2024 Destination of the Year, and offering exceptional beach vibes. Surfers will find bliss at the new boho-chic Sendero hotel, opened in February in Nosara, Nicoya Peninsula. Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo added the Virador Beach Club, updated its golf course while reducing water usage, and opened Wellness Shala spa, using local ingredients.
Las Catalinas community announced La Rambla, a new mixed-use, car-free space promoting outdoor living. Intrepid Travel launched new trips highlighting the Terraba Indigenous community. UrriTrek offers guided hikes on the 174-mile Camino de Costa Rica trail, connecting the Pacific and Caribbean. Costa Rica’s combination of beach culture, sustainable practices, and new experiences makes it the ultimate beach destination in 2024.
Dominica
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Noe Dewitt
Dominica, the self-declared Nature Island, voted best Caribbean island for two years in T+L’s World’s Best Awards, offers serene beach and nature vibes in 2024. Dominica is known for rainforests, hot springs, and waterfalls. New resorts and hotels include InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa (opened this year), Anichi Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, and Tranquility Beach Resort — Curio — a Collection by Hilton (forthcoming).
The new 32-nautical-mile Waitukubuli Sea Trail offers sea-kayaking along the western coast; Soufrière Outdoor Centre provides equipment and guides. Dominica is commissioning its first geothermal power plant in 2024, and gets about 25% of power from hydroelectric sources. Coulibri Ridge is considered one of the world’s most eco-friendly resorts. Dominica’s natural beauty, eco-conscious initiatives, and new accommodations make it a top beach and nature destination in 2024.
Hawai’i Island
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Courtesy of Rosewood Resorts
Hawai’i Island, or the Big Island, welcomes mindful visitors in 2024, offering meaningful beach and cultural experiences. Ilihia Gionson of the Hawai’i Tourism Authority encourages visitors to “mālama, or care for, our natural resources and support our community” for regenerative tourism. This theme is especially significant after the 2023 fires impacting Hawai’i Island and Maui. Support efforts include the Hawaii Red Cross and Lāhainā Restoration Foundation.
Kona Village, an iconic hotel, reopened in 2023 as a Rosewood Resort after closing in 2011. Interior designer Nicole Hollis describes villas as “your own little beach house.” Events include the Kona Brewers Festival in March and the Big Island Chocolate Festival in April. Hawai’i Island, with its focus on mindful tourism and the reopening of Kona Village, offers a meaningful beach destination in 2024.
Los Cabos, Mexico
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Mariah Tyler/Travel + Leisure
Los Cabos, Mexico, with desert-meets-ocean landscapes, sunshine 350 days a year, and luxury resorts, is a dreamy beach vacation choice, and 2024 will be significant with new resorts in Cabo del Sol. Cabo del Sol, an 1,800-acre community east of Cabo San Lucas with two miles of beach and two golf courses, will see several openings. Four Seasons Resort Cabo San Lucas at Cabo Del Sol and Soho House Beach Club are expected in early 2024, with Park Hyatt Los Cabos at Cabo Del Sol by year-end.
Quivira Los Cabos resort community will welcome the 120-room St. Regis Los Cabos at Quivira by late 2024, with 2.5 miles of beach and a Jack Nicklaus golf course, near the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal. Los Cabos, with its continuous luxury resort development and natural beauty, remains a top beach destination in 2024.
Mallorca, Spain
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Lara D’Agostino/Travel + Leisure
Mallorca, Spain, with sparkling waters, food, and relaxed atmosphere, is increasingly popular with Americans, especially with United’s summer nonstop service from Newark, and is becoming a luxury beach destination in 2024. Mallorca’s luxury hotel scene is booming, poised to rival Ibiza. Son Bunyola, a Virgin Limited Edition retreat on Mallorca’s northwest coast, with three miles of coastline and olive groves, opened this summer, featuring 26 rooms and suites and three villas. Sir Richard Branson first bought the property in 1994.
Nearby, The Lodge Mallorca, a Small Luxury Hotels of the World retreat, opened in May, with wood-fired dining and wellness programs. Rafael Nadal’s new Zel lifestyle brand launched Zel Mallorca, a beachy hotel with Meliá. Forthcoming properties include Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor, a refresh of a century-old hotel, and Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra, Mallorca, with 131 rooms, suites, and bungalows overlooking the sea near Palma. Mallorca’s luxury hotel growth and natural beauty position it as a premier beach destination in 2024.
For Adventurous Travelers
AlUla, Saudi Arabia
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Didier Marti/Getty Images
AlUla, Saudi Arabia, among Saudi Arabia’s ambitious tourism developments, is enchanting, making it a top adventure destination in 2024. Qatar Airways launched new flights to AlUla from Doha, improving accessibility. AlUla features Hegra, a 2,000-year-old archeological site with Nabataean tombs similar to Petra.
Decadent hotels include a forthcoming 36-room luxury resort at Hegra, incorporating an old railway station and fort. In AlUla’s Old Town, the new 30-room eco-hotel Dar Tantora eschews electricity for candlelight. Wadi AlFann, or Valley of the Arts, a permanent showcase of international artists’ works, is a new attraction. April’s “AlUla Skies” festival will feature helicopters and hot air balloons over monuments. AlUla’s blend of ancient history, modern luxury, and new cultural attractions makes it a compelling adventure destination in 2024.
Bahia, Brazil
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Marta Tucci
Bahia, Brazil, between the Amazon and Rio de Janeiro, is an often-overlooked coastal state offering unique adventure experiences in 2024. Bahia’s coastline includes surf-and-sand spots like Itacaré, home to Barracuda Hotel & Villas, and Trancoso, a boho-chic enclave popular since the 1980s.
Paul Irvine, a Brazil expert on T+L’s A-List, highlights Bahia’s beaches and the Chapada Diamantina National Park, with its “vibrant, off-grid hippy culture.” Villa accommodations are increasing. Brazil will reinstate visa requirements for U.S. citizens on January 10, 2024. Bahia’s diverse coastal and inland adventures, combined with its cultural richness, make it a top adventure destination in 2024.
Northern Pakistan
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Courtesy of Intrepid Travel
Northern Pakistan is gaining prominence in adventure travel, offering striking landscapes and high-altitude experiences in 2024. Northern Pakistan features topography, high-elevation lakes, and peaks. Intrepid Travel launched a 12-day women-only expedition in 2023, a first for the region, and will return in 2024 with departures in May, September, and October, visiting ancient villages, alpine lakes, and historic forts.
Wild Frontiers will debut a 14-day walking adventure with full-day hikes above 4,000 meters, rewarding participants with stunning landscapes and cultural connections, starting in Islamabad. Northern Pakistan’s challenging treks and unique cultural encounters position it as a leading adventure destination in 2024.
Peru’s Trekking Routes
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Courtesy of Intrepid Travel
Peru offers more than Machu Picchu, with diverse trekking routes becoming increasingly accessible, making it a top adventure destination in 2024. Beyond Machu Picchu, travelers have more trekking options. Alpaca Expeditions, an Indigenous-owned outfitter, will lead its first all-women hiking trip on the Salkantay Trail in 2024, operated by women for women, including stays in the Andes and cultural experiences beyond typical Inca Trail trips.
Intrepid Travel debuted a 12-day expedition on the Great Inca Road in northern Peru in 2023, starting in Huaraz and ending at Huanuco Pampa, immersing hikers in nature and culture, including archeological sites. Peru’s expanding trekking options beyond the Inca Trail provide rich adventure experiences in 2024.
South Australia
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ROBERT LANG/Courtesy of South Australia Tourism Commission
South Australia is emerging as a significant adventure destination in 2024, offering diverse experiences from ancient fossils to wine country. South Australia’s new national park, Nilpena Ediacara, opened in April, showcasing the world’s oldest known fossils (550 million years old).
South Australia’s wine country features hotels like Le Mas Barossa, Sequoia Lodge, and The Vineyard McLaren Vale, gateways to vineyards near Adelaide. Winemaker Tim Duval of John Duval Wines emphasizes South Australia as “the wine state.” Artisans of Barossa showcases small wineries; Bird in Hand offers eco-conscious shiraz; and d’Arenberg features The Cube tasting room.
Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island is set to reopen in December after the 2020 bushfires. South Australia’s blend of natural history, wine culture, and luxury accommodations makes it a compelling adventure destination in 2024.
Sri Lanka
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Tatiana Kashko/Getty Images
Sri Lanka, a small South Asian island, offers diverse landscapes and experiences, making it a top adventure destination in 2024. Catherine Heald of Remote Lands highlights Sri Lanka’s variety: “You can cover a lot of ground in two weeks, with loads of variety in the landscapes, from gorgeous beaches to lush jungles to high mountains to historic cities.”
Dilmah tea company opened boutique stays under its Reverie brand: Kayaam House and Ahu Bay. Uga hotel group is debuting Uga Riva in Negombo in November. Red Savannah recently launched a Sri Lankan culinary tour. Political unrest in 2022 impacted tourism, but Rachel Cooper of Red Savannah notes the new government’s measures to ensure a positive traveler experience. Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes, new accommodations, and culinary offerings position it as a compelling adventure destination in 2024.
