What are the Top Travel Trends for 2024 and Must-Visit Spots?
I'm bringing an extra dose of wanderlust into 2024. As a travel advisor, I have access to data-driven insight on popular vacation spots from the assistance of fellow advisors, and I've put together a 2024 Hot List including my top picks for locations to stay.
Plan for rising stars (like Panama) and tried-and-true classics in well-known destinations like St Kitts and Nevis in 2024. Discover what's hot in travel this year by reading on (of course including where to stay).
Small(er) US Cities
Smaller cities are growing in popularity, so move over, LA and NYC. Weekend trips can be made more enjoyable by visiting secondary cities, which are sometimes overlooked. You can have a delicious meal, stay in a chic place, and return to work by Monday morning.
New Orleans is back, big time. The hip Virgin Hotels New Orleans opened in 2021, and continues to welcome guests craving a vibrant Nola experience paired with good vibes and a cheeky sense of play.
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Images Courtesy of Virgin Hotel, New Orleans
Panama
Panama, which at times was overlooked, is now taking center-stage. This Central American country crushes the combo of city and seclusion: enjoy a weekend of culture and history in Panama City, followed by island escapes that the crowds haven’t found: choose Islas Secas for the ultimate splurge-y hideaway in design-forward casitas.
As an alternative, Isla Palenque offers a luxurious yet carefree beach getaway with just eight beachfront casitas and a villa estate. During the day, wild monkeys swing from the trees above the outdoor soaking tubs.
Images Courtesy of Isla Secas, Panama
San Sebastian + Biarritz
Madrid and Barcelona may always be Spain’s busiest cities, but the destination I'm most excited about is farther north: the Basque Country is perfect for a multi-stop bender of Michelin-Starred meals, casual pintxos bars, surfing, art and, of course, new hotels. Nobu Hotel is at it again with a new property in San Sebastián — and good thing they got in now, as the Spanish city has announced that they’ll ban new hotels to protect against over-tourism.
Traveling north to Biarritz, the Regina Experimental and Le Garage are both easily accessible to nearby restaurants, shopping, and the beach on foot. Not to be overlooked is Hotel du Palais, a favored resort that is currently run by Hyatt after undergoing much-needed renovations.
Images Courtesy of Nobu Hotel San Sebastian
St. Kitts + Nevis
You fly it and they will come. I've seen major trends start with the launch of new routes (like Mallorca and United), and now Jetblue is expanding to St. Kitts. There will be reservations after that. Better yet, you'll get two for the price of one because St. Kitts and Nevis is one nation. After checking out the hotels on one, visit the others to experience the full range of offerings from the islands.
Golden Rock is an off-the-grid eco haven on the slopes of Mount Nevis; Belle Mont is a farm-to-table hotel and restaurant that's giving Blackberry Farm vibes; the Park Hyatt St. Kitts is a trendy beach getaway; and the Four Seasons Nevis is a sprawling resort that's among the more affordable hotels within the brand (get there now before that changes).
Images Courtesy of Four Seasons Nevis
Greece
I get it: the Aegean is perennially a place people want to go. But, I'm over the teeming crowds and tourist traps. It’s less about Santorini, Mykonos and Athens — now is the time to venture to the islands you haven’t heard about yet. Paros epitomizes the ideal Greek vacation: secluded laid-back luxury, a pervasive breeziness, a slower pace of life. Here, Cosme, a chic 40-room retreat with an appreciation for all things local, awaits.
Crete is bigger than the other Greek islands, but I adore it because of its down-t-to-earth vibe. With Domes Zeen Chania, which is fashioned after a classic Greek hamlet, you can't go wrong! Alternatively, consider staying at the recently opened boutique hotel Phaea Blue Palace, where over half of the 47 rooms feature private pools. A hint: in 2025, keep an eye out for Rosewood Blue Palace.
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Images Courtesy of Cosme, a Luxury Collection Resort, Paros
5 Summer Hot Spots to Book Now
Summer is prime travel time, which means everything fills up quickly. In the travel industry, the early bird does indeed get the worm.
Here are five hotels you'll want to snag a room in sooner rather than later for summer travel this year. Because when it comes to booking summer travel, you can never be too early.
What’s Hot for Cruising in 2024
Images Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line
All cruise enthusiasts (as well as the "cruise-curious" among us) take note! I've put together a list of the hottest items in the 2024 cruise market while so that you can create your wish lists and begin organizing your trips. The open oceans are all about comebacks, innovations, and lots of fun.
This is a sneak peek at the cruise industry for the upcoming year, featuring everything from cutting-edge floating hotels and immersive expeditions to the comeback of well-known brands.
Crystal Cruises
Four Seasons Palau
Norwegian Cruise Line
Travel in 2024 is lined to be better than ever! And I've only listed some of the travel trends and must-visit spots for the year. I'm so excited for the all the memories that will take place for me and you. If you need assistance with booking your next dream trip, use a travel advisor (like me) to get those additional perks plus insider 411 on the destinations.
What I want to know from you, my readers, what places are on your bucket list for 2024?
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