Find out where everyone's headed abroad this summer before they flood your Instagram feed in our curated guide. From sun-drenched beaches to charming retreats, these destinations offer something for every traveler's style.
EUROPE
Maratea, Italy
Hotel Santavenere
Maratea, nestled in the picturesque region of Basilicata in Southern Italy, is a top pick for a summer travel destination. Just two and a half hours south of Naples along the coast, Maratea remains a hidden gem. One of its most stunning accommodations is Hotel Santavenere, managed by Egnazia Ospitalità Italiana, renowned for luxury properties across Italy. Originally an aristocratic villa built in the 1950s, Santavenere now offers 34 guest rooms surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation. With its historic charm and pristine landscapes, Maratea is poised to become one of Italy's most coveted destinations, reminiscent of Puglia's allure 15 years ago.
Lake Lugano, Italy
Overlook the emerald waters of Lake Lugano and immerse yourself in nature at Aria Retreat + Spa. Nestled in a subtropical park of 40,000 square meters and a forest of over 200,000 square meters, ARIA Retreat & SPA is focused on well-being, which is achieved through tailor-made, personalized service and facilities. The new luxury hospitality concept, which integrates seamlessly with the mountains and the lakes features Dolce Vita Lounge & Terrace, the fine dining restaurant La Musa Restaurant & Rooftop Terrace, and more.
Ionian Islands, Greece via Fraser Yachts
EMIR – Fraser Yachts
Explore Greece's Ionian Islands, a region rich in culture, myth, and breathtaking landscapes, with Fraser Yachts. Charter specialist Sofia Kotta highlights top destinations such as Zakynthos' "Shipwreck Beach," Kefalonia's limestone coast, and Corfu's historic architecture. With Fraser's acquisition of Atalanta Golden Yachts, now Fraser Greece, the company offers unparalleled local expertise and over 30 new luxury yachts for charter, ensuring an exceptional Greek yachting experience.
Rhodes, Greece
Rhodes is poised to reclaim its status as a top summer destination in 2024, offering a blend of relaxation and adventure. With rugged cliffs, stunning beaches, whitewashed villages, and ancient ruins, Rhodes promises an unforgettable experience for all. Ella Resorts' properties, including Elissa Adults-Only Lifestyle Beach Resort and Helea Lifestyle Beach Resort, serve as ideal bases for exploring the island's treasures. From new culinary experiences to signature hikes and tours, guests will leave feeling connected to the island with memories of Rhodian adventures.
Andalusian Coast
Embracing the essence of Grecian culture against the backdrop of the stunning Andalusian coast, Eva Estepona is set to launch this July as the ultimate lifestyle destination. Inspired by the Greek goddess of water, Eva combines Greek tradition with modern entertainment, inviting guests to unleash their inner goddess through seductive dinner shows and surprise performances. Designed by the award-winning architecture & design studio YODEZEEN, Eva exudes timeless elegance with its harmonious blend of Grecian aesthetics and Spanish warmth. Situated overlooking the Playa del Cristo, Eva offers breathtaking views of the coastline and magical sunsets over the Pillars of Hercules.
Algarve, Portugal
This summer, the Algarve region in southern Portugal stands out as a top destination, drawing travelers in with its windswept beaches, exceptional seafood, and stunning limestone formations. In Albufeira, the W Algarve offers a luxury lifestyle experience, blending local inspiration with carefully curated design elements. Guests can enjoy the return of the hotel's summer program, AURA, featuring sunset parties at the cliff top venue, AIR, with performances by renowned artists. Additionally, the Afronation music festival from June 26-28 promises a beach party extravaganza with performances by artists such as Nicki Minaj and Rema.
Salzburg, Austria
Rosewood Schloss Fuschl
Salzburg, with its stunning Eastern Alps views and rich history, is a cultural gem highlighted by the Salzburg Festival 2024, which kicks off on July 19. This renowned event celebrates music and theater in Mozart's birthplace, attracting global audiences. Visitors can also experience Austrian heritage at the newly opened Rosewood Schloss Fuschl, a historic castle on Lake Fuschl, blending timeless elegance with modern luxury, offering locally crafted cuisine and a serene on-site spa.
Edinburgh, Scotland
VisitScotland
Edinburgh's vibrant cultural scene is enriched by attractions like the Port of Leith Distillery, the soon-to-open Edinburgh Gin Distillery, and the annual Edinburgh Festival Fringe, which will feature the Playbill Fringeship floatel in August 2024. Come September 2024, visitors can enjoy Europe's largest inland surfing destination at the Lost Shore Surf Resort. Enhancing this dynamic cityscape, the Red Carnation Hotel Collection's 100 Princes Street opened in April 2024, offering luxurious accommodations with views of Edinburgh Castle in a building inspired by the tales of Scottish explorers.
Helsinki, Finland
If you’re looking to escape the heat – and the tourists – head to Helsinki, Finland. A top "coolcation" destination, Helsinki caters to travelers seeking unique experiences and fewer crowds. Experience the epitome of Nordic luxury at The Hotel Maria, featuring spacious rooms, state-of-the-art spa facilities, and a curated selection of Finnish designer boutiques. Celebrate Finland's reputation as the happiest country with The Hotel Maria's "Summer of Happiness" package, offering luxurious accommodations and exclusive access to private Finnish sauna experiences.
Tipperary, Ireland
Cashel Palace
Discover the rich equine culture of County Tipperary, Ireland, with Julie McGrath, the Equine Concierge at Cashel Palace Hotel. Offering curated adventures across the Thoroughbred Trail, McGrath ensures an unforgettable summer for equine enthusiasts with access to prestigious racing and breeding facilities. Owned by the renowned Magnier Family, Cashel Palace Hotel immerses guests in Ireland's thoroughbred legacy, promising luxurious accommodations and bespoke equestrian experiences amidst lush landscapes.
Hamburg, Germany
The Fontanay
Hamburg, Germany's second-largest city, offers a charming alternative to traditional German or Nordic destinations, boasting a thriving cultural scene and convenient access from major European hubs. As a host city for UEFA Euro 2024, Hamburg will showcase five matches, igniting the city with football fever from June 14 to July 14. Additionally, opening in August 2024, Port des Lumières introduces an immersive art experience, featuring exhibitions by renowned artists like Gustav Klimt. Visitors can also indulge in Hamburg's vibrant music scene, with gigs by sought-after international musicians throughout the year. For luxurious accommodation, The Fontenay, with its sculptural architecture and stunning lake views, offers a rejuvenating experience, including bespoke IV infusions at the rooftop spa and culinary delights at its Michelin-starred restaurants.
London, England
While London is a great year-round destination, in the summer, experience quintessential British charm at Brown’s Hotel. Partnering with Lock & Co. Hatters, Brown’s offers exclusive custom hat styling experiences for guests, just in time for the Royal Ascot. Indulge in Afternoon Tea in The Drawing Room, surrounded by Lock & Co.'s Spring/Summer '24 Couture collection of pastel and floral hats, for a truly memorable British summer social season experience.
Rural Hampshire, England
Paul Massey / Heckfield Place
Escape to rural Hampshire, just an hour from central London, and discover Heckfield Place, a Georgian family home turned luxury boutique hotel set amidst 400 acres of serene countryside. With locally grown produce from their Home Farm and Gardens, Michelin-starred dining overseen by chef Skye Gyngell, and a world-class spa utilizing all-natural treatments, it's an idyllic retreat for those seeking tranquility and a connection to nature.
INDONESIA
Discover the enchanting allure of Bali at Four Seasons Bali at Jimbaran Bay. Nestled in a tranquil bay along three miles of sandy coastline, this resort embodies the essence of an authentic Balinese village. Each villa boasts spacious indoor and outdoor living areas, lush gardens, a private pool, and a sun terrace, providing guests with an oasis of tranquility and relaxation. With breathtaking views and authentic arts, Four Seasons Bali at Jimbaran Bay offers a profound connection to the island's stunning landscapes and rich culture, making it the ultimate summer getaway destination.
CANADA
Montreal
© Daph & Nico - Tourisme Montréal
Montreal emerges as an ideal summer destination, renowned for its vibrant festival season offering a diverse range of entertainment, from world-class jazz performances to captivating circus shows and electronic music extravaganzas. With hundreds of festivals annually, Montreal serves as a cultural hub, showcasing top talent and fostering a dynamic arts scene. During the summer, the city comes alive with special events, attracting visitors and locals alike to celebrate its rich cultural heritage.
CARIBBEAN & CENTRAL AMERICA
Bermuda
Bermuda beckons as a captivating summer destination, just a short flight from many East Coast cities (with direct flights from LGA!). Its rich cultural tapestry, blending British, African, Caribbean, and Portuguese influences, unfolds in the winding streets of St. George's and the vibrant rhythms of Gombey dancers. Indulge in culinary delights like Bermuda fish chowder and succulent spiny lobster, while accommodations range from luxury resorts to quaint cottages. Safety and warmth define Bermuda's welcoming environment, inviting travelers to explore pristine pink-sand beaches and embark on outdoor adventures. Beyond relaxation, Bermuda offers world-class golfing, snorkeling, and hiking.
Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is a lush tropical paradise, boasting nearly 1,000 miles of coastline and 250 miles of the world's most stunning beaches. Magnificent resorts and hotels dot the landscape, offering a plethora of sports, recreation, and entertainment options. Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant rhythm of merengue, indulge in luxurious accommodations, uncover ancient relics, savor delicious Dominican cuisine, or embark on ecotourism adventures in the island's magnificent national parks, mountain ranges, rivers, and beaches.
Montpelier Plantation & Beach, Nevis
Tucked away among 60 acres of lush tropical gardens and offering stunning views of azure seas, the boutique hideaway Montpelier Plantation & Beach provides a great base for travelers searching for a Caribbean retreat. When guests venture out from this serene spot, they can explore Nevis's rich history, breathtaking natural beauty, and vibrant culture. This summer, Nevis hosts the vibrant Nevis Mango Festival from July 4 to 7, showcasing the island's famous tropical fruit, followed by Culturama, Nevis's annual carnival marking its 50th anniversary this year, from July 25 to August 6.
St. Maarten
In St. Maarten, summer is eternal, and the island recently launched its "Summer Starts in St. Maarten" campaign to celebrate. This vibrant Caribbean destination offers endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation, with stunning beaches, adventurous activities, and a rich culinary scene. St. Maarten's central location makes it the perfect hub for island hopping, allowing visitors to easily venture to neighboring gems like Saba, Anguilla, and St. Barths for a quick change of scenery and cultural immersion. After exploring the surrounding islands, return to St. Maarten to discover its colorful capital of Philipsburg, diverse beaches, and nature-immersive activities.
Playa Guiones, Costa Rica
Situated in the vibrant heart of Playa Guiones on Costa Rica's northern Pacific Coast, The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel offers an unparalleled hospitality experience. As the original surf hotel in Nosara, it stands at the edge of the jungle, granting direct access to the picturesque seven-kilometer-long crescent-shaped Playa Guiones through the hotel's Surf Club. There’s something for everyone, whether guests are drawn to surfing, mountain biking, yoga, or leisurely walks. The Gilded Iguana also caters to families, and wellness enthusiasts alike. With its prime location and array of amenities, The Gilded Iguana promises an unforgettable retreat in one of Costa Rica's most iconic destinations.
Merida, Mexico
Mérida, a vibrant and trendy destination in the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula, is home to Wayam Mundo Imperial, the first LEED Gold-certified hotel in the area. Reflecting its commitment to sustainability, the property seamlessly blends historic Merida residence elements with contemporary design and features an impressive art collection. WAYAM offers dog-friendly accommodations, a rooftop pool, and showcases local art, providing guests with an authentic taste of Yucatan culture. Cuna, the hotel's on-site restaurant helmed by Mexico City chef Maycoll Calderon, invites guests to savor signature Yucatan cuisine with locally sourced ingredients in a beautiful outdoor terrace setting.
