Got your travel bags packed and ready? Great! We’ve featured the world’s best travel destinations in this comprehensive guide — discover hidden gems, luxurious escapes, and culturally rich locations across the globe.
From Ålborg, Denmark’s charming old town, to the luxury train journeys in Southeast Asia, find out where to plan your next adventure with our detailed insights and recommendations.
Key Takeaways
- Experience the unique charm of lesser-known destinations like Ålborg, Denmark, and Métis Crossing, Alberta.
- Embrace luxury and adventure with exclusive experiences on the Eastern & Oriental Express and in Northern Pakistan.
- Discover new cultural and historical insights into places like Cartagena, Colombia, and Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, Georgia.
Eastern & Oriental Express, a Belmond Train: Luxury on Rails
After a four-year pause, the Eastern & Oriental Express luxury train resumed its service in February 2024.
New itineraries will take travelers through Southeast Asia in cherry wood-clad cabins with Malay-inspired decor.
Journeys like the Essence of Malaysia offer stops in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, and Penang.
For a wilder adventure, the Wild Malaysia option includes Taman Negara National Park, home to Sumatran rhinos and tigers.
With amenities like a piano bar car, an open-air lounge, and two restaurant carriages serving Peranakan food, this train journey is a destination in itself.
Germany: Host of the 2024 UEFA European Football Championship
From June to July 2024, Germany will host the UEFA European Football Championship in 10 cities, including Berlin, Cologne, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Munich.
This major sports event will attract fans from around the world. Munich’s new Rosewood Munich hotel, opened in October, is a perfect place to stay, with 132 rooms available in this historic building.
Visitors can enjoy the city’s Old Town, Maximiliansplatz, and even surf spots on the Isar River.
Métis Crossing, Alberta: An Immersive Indigenous Experience
Métis Crossing in Alberta, Canada, is an immersive destination where visitors can experience Métis culture through traditional crafts, festivals, and outdoor activities like bird-watching, canoeing, and snowshoeing.
The retreat features a 40-room lodge, a cultural center, and new Sky Watching Domes for panoramic night sky views.
Here, you can learn about the Métis people’s rich heritage and enjoy the warmth of their community.
Ålborg, Denmark: A Hidden Gem in Scandinavia
Ålborg, Denmark’s fourth-largest city, might seem like an unlikely travel hub, but it’s quickly gaining international attention.
With Scandinavian Airlines launching flights from Newark Liberty International starting April through October, Ålborg is more accessible than ever.
Explore the cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses and pastel exteriors in the old town. After that, visit the attractively refurbished waterfront, home to the newly renovated Pier 5 Hotel.
Ålborg’s rich cultural scene includes a modern art museum, an architecture center, and the newly opened Regan Vest, a Cold War museum in a former bunker.
Just a short drive away, discover the dramatic coastline around Skagen, the windswept dunes of Thy National Park, and the 2,000-year-old Viking ring fortresses, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Cartagena, Colombia: A Rising Luxury Escape
Cartagena is becoming a top luxury destination on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. In 2023, the city welcomed Casa Pestagua, a 16-room boutique hotel in a restored 17th-century building.
Upcoming developments include bungalows on Isla Barú and eco-friendly stays at Blue Apple Beach, an eco-hotel on Tierra Bomba Island.
In 2024, Disney’s Encanto-themed tour of Colombia will highlight Cartagena, and Delta Air Lines will add new nonstop flights from Atlanta.
With a Four Seasons hotel on the horizon and an expanding airport, Cartagena’s luxury and accessibility will surely help the city grow even more.
Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, Georgia: A New National Park
Ocmulgee Mounds in central Georgia may soon become the first national park co-managed by a nation whose ancestors were forcibly removed from the area.
The Muscogee (Creek) Nation is working to preserve and celebrate its heritage with large earthen mounds and temple complexes.
The city of Macon, the gateway to the park, honors the Muscogee (Creek) Nation with bilingual street signs and the Muscogee flag flying alongside the Stars and Stripes.
Visit Ocmulgee in September for the annual Indigenous Film Festival.
Rajasthan, India: A Blend of Heritage and Modern Luxury
Rajasthan, India’s northwestern state, promises new delights in 2024 with new hotels in Jaipur.
Villa Palladio, a nine-room hotel, and The Johri, a five-room property with a chic cocktail bar, offer luxurious stays.
Anantara’s first Indian property, the 150-room Anantara Jaipur Hotel, is designed for destination weddings.
The new six-lane expressway connecting Jaipur to New Delhi makes the region more accessible than ever.
Shinta Mani Mustang, Nepal: Luxury in the Himalayas
Shinta Mani Mustang, a luxurious 29-suite hotel, opened in Nepal’s Mustang district in August.
Guests can trek the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, search for rare wildlife, and visit local villages.
The hotel, part of the Bensley Collection, focuses on sustainable tourism with local building materials and Indigenous construction methods.
Nepal is also making strides in inclusivity with programs to educate LGBTQ+ trekking guides.
Tallinn, Estonia: A Cultural Capital
Tallinn, Estonia’s capital, boasts a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its walled Old Town.
The city’s vibrant art scene includes the new PoCo Art Museum and nearly 50 other art institutions.
The Noblessner district, once an industrial shipyard, is now a seafront hot spot with stylish cafes, shops, and Estonia’s first two-Michelin-starred restaurant, 180° by Matthias Diether.
The new Nunne Boutique Hotel offers views over Old Town’s Towers Square.
Warsaw, Poland: A Contemporary Art Hub
Warsaw’s contemporary art scene will be boosted in 2024 when the new Museum of Modern Art headquarters opens.
The museum will feature foreign and Polish works in a 22-acre arts district.
The city’s new 800-seat TR Warszaw Theater and the iconic Palace of Culture and Science add to the vibrant cultural landscape.
Sonoma County, California: Wine and Nature
Sonoma County, known for its wine, offers more than just vineyards. The new West Sonoma Coast AVA joins 19 others, with wineries like Flowers and Vérité Wines.
Explore the coastline from Bodega Bay to Sea Ranch, and stay at the renovated Sea Ranch Lodge or the new Dawn Ranch in Guerneville.
Healdsburg’s dining scene is thriving with new plant-based restaurants and upcoming hotel openings.
Bangkok: A Megacity in Transformation
Bangkok is evolving with new projects like Dusit Central Park, King Rama IX Memorial Park, and the refreshed Lumpini Park.
The city also focuses on wellness, with the upcoming Aman Nai Lert Bangkok offering a multi-floor wellness sanctuary.
Bangkok remains a classic Asian megacity with frenetic energy, neon lights, and a thriving cultural scene.
Cleveland: A Year of Revitalization
Cleveland will shine in 2024 with events like the NCAA Women’s Final Four, a total solar eclipse, and the Pan-American Masters Games.
Cultural expansions include the Cleveland Museum of Natural History and Karamu House.
Historic hotels like Hotel Cleveland and the Fidelity Hotel are set to reopen, while new developments along the Cuyahoga River and Lake Erie add to the city’s allure.
Fort Worth, Texas: Western Heritage Meets Modern Luxury
Fort Worth is booming, with luxury hotels like The Crescent Hotel and Bowie House opening in the Cultural District.
The National Cowgirl Museum will celebrate Escaramuza Charra, and the National Juneteenth Museum is set to open in 2025.
Fort Worth combines classic Western experiences with modern amenities and cultural attractions.
Istanbul: A Resurgence Along the Bosphorus
Istanbul’s waterfront is revitalized with the Galataport, Istanbul Museum of Modern Art, and the Peninsula Hotel.
The Çırağan Palace Kempinski and The Basilica Cistern add to the city’s historical and cultural richness.
Enjoy luxury stays, Michelin-starred dining, and contemporary art exhibits in Turkey’s style capital.
Kansas City, Missouri: Sports and Entertainment Hub
Kansas City is becoming a sports and entertainment leader with the new Kansas City Current stadium, Origen Hotel KC, and Rock Island Bridge entertainment district.
The city’s vibrant sports scene, historic hotels, and cultural attractions make it a must-visit destination in 2024.
Las Vegas: Bigger, Louder, Glitzier
Las Vegas will host major events like the Las Vegas Grand Prix and Super Bowl LVIII in 2024.
The new Sphere arena, Formula 1 races, and the opening of Fontainebleau Las Vegas add to the city’s allure.
Las Vegas continues to set new standards for entertainment and luxury.
Louisville, Kentucky: Celebrating 150 Years of the Kentucky Derby
Louisville will celebrate the Kentucky Derby’s 150th anniversary with a newly renovated Churchill Downs Paddock.
New hotels like Derby City Hotel, The Myriad Hotel, and Hotel Genevieve offer luxurious stays.
The spirits scene will be highlighted by the launch of Bourbon and Belonging, Kentucky’s Queer Bourbon Week.
Montreal: Green and Visitor-Friendly
Montreal’s new REM light rail system and Grand Quay observation tower make it one of North America’s greenest cities.
The city’s bike-sharing program and renovated hotels like Vogue Hotel Montreal and Honeyrose Hotel add to its appeal.
Montreal will be an ideal destination for eclipse watchers in 2024.
Paris: Host of the 2024 Summer Olympic Games
Paris will host the 2024 Summer Olympic Games, with events spread across the city.
New hotels and restaurants like Chateau des Fleurs, Grand Mazarin, and La Tour d’Argent offer luxurious stays.
Numerous museums and institutions will host sports-related exhibitions and events throughout the summer.
Coastal Alaska: A Top Cruise Destination
Alaska’s Inside Passage leads the charge in cruising with new ports and longer seasons.
The Klawock port on Prince of Wales Island will welcome large ships in 2024, and Skagway’s new floating pier will host mega-ships.
Consider a shoulder season trip for a quieter Alaskan experience.
Coastal Norway: Architectural Marvels and Natural Wonders
Norway’s coastal attractions include the new Sommero Hotel in Oslo, the Kunstsilo Museum in Kristiansand, and the Salmon Eye dining destination in Hardangerfjord.
The long-awaited Six Senses Svart will offer off-grid, carbon-neutral stays near the Svartisen glacier.
Norway combines cutting-edge design with stunning natural beauty.
Douro River, Portugal: Wine Tourism Boom
Portugal’s Douro River is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. Yacht charters and cruises offer access to quintas and Michelin Guide–approved restaurants.
Tauck and Viking are expanding their presence on the river, offering wine-country itineraries.
AmaWaterways’ special departure will explore the history of the Black and African diaspora.
Faroe Islands: Remote Beauty Made Accessible
The Faroe Islands are now more accessible with nonstop flights from New York. These islands offer cold-water surfing, traditional knitting, and hiking to places like Sørvágsvatn.
Dining at Roks in Tórshavn and staying at top-flight accommodations make the Faroes a unique destination.
Kimberley, Australia: Ancient Wonders and Modern Adventures
The Kimberleys offer ancient wonders like the Bungle Bungles and new luxury cruise options.
Silversea and Seabourn offer expedition-style itineraries with helicopter sightseeing flights, paddling, and cultural excursions.
Explore one of the world’s oldest continuous cultures and enjoy modern adventures.
The Mississippi River: American History and New Attractions
New ships and land attractions are bringing fresh interest to the Mississippi River.
American Queen Voyages and Vikings offer luxurious cruises with stops in cities like Memphis, Natchez, and St. Louis.
Here, you can explore new riverfront attractions and enjoy American history along the river.
Queen Anne: Cunard’s New Luxury Ocean Liner
Cunard’s new Queen Anne will launch in May 2024 with new restaurants and wellness facilities.
The ship will sail to Lisbon and spend the summer in the Mediterranean.
On this luxurious ocean liner, you can enjoy classic traditions like high tea service and the Golden Lion pub.
Seven Seas Grandeur: Regent’s Newest Luxury Ship
Seven Seas Grandeur will debut in November 2023 with fresh takes on elevated dining and entertainment.
The ship features a multimillion-dollar art collection and luxurious suites.
Grandeur’s inaugural season will be in the Caribbean before heading to the Mediterranean.
Amboseli National Park, Kenya: Elephant Spotting and Luxury Lodging
Amboseli National Park is famed for its elephant herds and charismatic wildlife.
The new Angama Amboseli Lodge offers luxury accommodations with views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Guests can enjoy game drives, cultural experiences, and unparalleled wildlife spotting.
Aspen Mountain, Colorado: A Ski Destination’s Biggest Makeover
Aspen Mountain is expanding with a new high-speed quad lift and 153 acres of new terrain.
The new Mollie Aspen Hotel offers luxury accommodations in the heart of Aspen.
Aspen’s cultural calendar, luxury shopping, and scene-y restaurants make it a top destination for 2024.
Big Sky, Montana: Luxury in the Wild West
Big Sky offers heart-pumping activities and new luxury accommodations.
One&Only’s Moonlight Basin will provide access to ski terrain, a private lodge, and a spa.
Montage Big Sky offers luxury rooms, dining venues, and ski-in, ski-out access.
Hokkaido, Japan: Food, Nature, and Premier Skiing
Hokkaido is a top destination for food and skiing, with resorts like Club Med Kiroro.
The island offers miso ramen in Sapporo, hiking in Shiretoko National Park, and premier skiing in Niseko.
Club Med Kiroro’s new onsen and wellness facilities make it a top choice.
KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: Conservation and Luxury Lodging
KwaZulu-Natal offers World Heritage Sites, beaches, and safari parks. The Babanango Game Reserve reintroduces species like black rhino and cheetah.
New lodges, like Madwaleni River Lodge and Sala Beach House, provide luxury accommodations.
Mababe, Botswana: A Temporary Safari Paradise
Mokete, a new safari lodge in Botswana, will only exist until 2026. The lodge offers all-day game drives and guided nature walks in the Mababe Concession.
Head here before 2026 and enjoy wildlife watching and stargazing from bed in retractable-roof tents.
New Zealand: A Year-Round Adventure Destination
New Zealand offers adventure and luxury accommodations year-round.
New flights and exclusive-use villas like Flockhill Lodge and Clifftops at Anderson Cove make it more accessible.
Explore the Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve and the new Tom Doak–designed golf course.
Anna Maria Island, Florida: A Hidden Florida Gem
Anna Maria Island offers a no-high-rises shoreline, incredible sunsets, and a small-town feel.
New hotels like Mello on the Beach and Joie Inn fit the island’s vibe. The growing Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport makes it easier to visit.
Coastal Campania, Italy: Luxury Boom
Campania, home to Amalfi, Capri, and Sorrento, is experiencing a hotel boom.
New hotels like Il Capri Hotel, Hotel La Palma, and Convento di Amalfi offer luxurious stays. Airlines are adding new routes to Naples, making it more accessible.
Costa Rica: Pura Vida Paradise
Costa Rica is T+L’s 2024 Destination of the Year, with new hotels and wellness facilities.
New hiking trips and tours highlight the Terraba community and the Camino de Costa Rica trail. Enjoy sustainable tourism and natural beauty.
Dominica: The Nature Island
Dominica offers tropical rainforests, hot springs, and waterfalls. New resorts like InterContinental Dominica and Anichi Resort & Spa provide luxury stays.
The new Waitukubuli Sea Trail offers sea-kayaking adventures.
Hawai’i Island: A Regenerative Tourism Model
Hawai’i Island welcomes mindful visitors to support a regenerative tourism model. The iconic Kona Village Hotel offers luxurious beach villas.
Events like the Kona Brewers Festival and Big Island Chocolate Festival highlight the island’s culture.
Los Cabos, Mexico: Desert-Meets-Ocean Luxury
Los Cabos will see new resorts like Four Seasons Resort Cabo San Lucas and Park Hyatt Los Cabos.
The rugged landscape and sunny weather make it a top vacation spot. Enjoy luxurious stays and stunning beach views.
Mallorca, Spain: A Booming Luxury Scene
Mallorca’s luxury hotel scene is booming with new properties like Son Bunyola and The Lodge Mallorca. Rafael Nadal’s Zel Mallorca also offers a beachy hotel experience.
New hotels like Four Seasons Resort Mallorca and Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra are coming soon.
AlUla, Saudi Arabia: Ancient History and Modern Luxury
AlUla offers ancient sites like Hegra and modern hotels like Dar Tantora. New flights from Qatar Airways make it more accessible.
The Wadi AlFann art showcase and AlUla Skies festival add to the destination’s appeal.
Bahia, Brazil: Coastal and Inland Adventures
Bahia’s coastline offers surf-and-sand spots like Itacaré and Trancoso. Inland Chapada Diamantina National Park offers vibrant, off-grid adventures.
More villa accommodations are popping up for travelers seeking unique experiences.
Northern Pakistan: Adventure Travel Growing
Northern Pakistan’s topography, lakes, and peaks make it a top adventure destination.
Intrepid Travel’s women-only expedition and Wild Frontiers’ walking adventure offer unique experiences.
On these challenging trips, you can meet locals and explore historic sites.
Peru’s Trekking Routes: Beyond Machu Picchu
Peru offers more than just Machu Picchu; it has new trekking routes.
Alpaca Expeditions’ all-women hike on the Salkantay Trail and Intrepid Travel’s Great Inca Road expedition offer unique adventures.
Tourists can also explore lesser-known regions and indulge in other cultural experiences.
South Australia: A Wine Lover’s Paradise
South Australia offers new attractions like Nilpena Ediacara National Park and top-notch wineries.
Hotels like Le Mas Barossa and Sequoia Lodge provide luxurious stays. Kangaroo Island’s Southern Ocean Lodge also reopens in December.
Sri Lanka: Small Island, Big Adventures
Sri Lanka offers diverse landscapes, boutique stays, and culinary tours. New hotels like Kayaam House and Uga Riva add to the destination’s appeal.
Political stability and traveler-friendly measures make it a top choice for travel and tourism in 2024.
Ready to Explore the World?
Don’t wait until the end of the year to explore the world! Whatever your tastes are, these top destinations offer something for every traveler.
Start planning your unforgettable vacation now and make the most of this year.
Book your trips, pack your bags, and prepare to create memories that will last a lifetime. Your next great adventure awaits!
