Various Travel Hacks (2024)

24/02/2022

The Maldives' 1,000+ islands sit in the Indian Ocean like a string of turquoise pearls. The tropical nirvana has 166 accommodation options, including the new Joali Being nature retreat, which leads guests on a transformative wellness journey. Alila Kothaifaru Maldives debuts in February with 80 beach and overwater villas on the Raa Atoll. Coming to the same atoll in May, also with 80 luxury villas, is Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa on a massive lagoon primed for snorkeling. The ever-innovative Soneva Fushi has a new experience that includes zip-lining to a six-course meal 30 feet about the sand. Along with Soneva Jani, they've debuted Soneva Soul, a new spa complex melding ancient and modern techniques. Other vacation favorites are unveiling new digs like the sleek, contemporary renovation of Naladhu Private Island and the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, debuting in February.

24/02/2022

Wellness opportunities and cultural awareness are showcased along with luxury at Lanai's two Four Seasons resorts. At Sensei Lāna'i, A Four Seasons Resort, guests can now choose the Discover Sensei Experience, offering the ability to enjoy the retreat's amenities without joining the more comprehensive programs. New "Optimal Wellbeing" programs focus on improving performance in tennis and golf along with overall wellness. Four Seasons Resort Lanai is adding an observatory as part of "Love Lanai," featuring cultural experiences designed to share the island's rich heritage. The observatory program will center around the history of Pacific voyaging, native traditions, and astronomy.

24/02/2022

Straddling three regions of Zambia, Kafue National Park is the largest (and oldest) in the country, measuring 8,648 miles. In the wildlife-rich Busanga plains — located in the secluded northern side of the park — spend the night at newly opened Chisa Busanga Camp in their bird's nest shaped rooms. Enjoy a silent safari, thanks to e-cruisers or an e-bike safari provided by the property. See wildlife from above with a hot air balloon safari from Shumba Camp or Busanga Bush Camp. Other accommodation offerings in the park include riverfront Ila Safari Lodge and Mukambi Safari Lodge. Both properties offer fishing, walking safaris, boat cruises, and have Instagram worthy pools (perfect for a soak and the traditional safari sundowner: a gin and tonic).

24/02/2022

The Auld Reekie is buzzing with new energy. The highly anticipated Hotel W, designed by Jestico and Whiles in conjunction with Allan Murray Architects, is opening next winter. And several other hotels have recently opened in and around the city — Marine North Berwick, the Market Street hotel, Rusacks St. Andrews, and ship-turned-luxury-hotel Fingal. Gleneagles Townhouse, a first-ever city outpost from the famed Gleneagles estate, is opening in the spring. St James Quarter, a developing area of the city, and where Hotel W is being built, is opening next year with 85 shops, 30 restaurants, and a cinema. New in whisky is the September christening of Johnnie Walker Princes Street. And promising to shake up the scotch scene in the capital city is Leith Distillery, opening in the summer.

22/02/2022

This scenic African island, which sits east of Madagascar, offers a multitude of beaches to worth prioritizing. Visitors say the island's west coast is where you'll find the best strips of shoreline, including Flic en Flac and Le Morne, which feature beautiful white sand and superb vantage points for sunsets. Those who enjoy beaches near amenities will prefer north coast shores like Grand Baie, while those seeking a more remote beach experience will enjoy visiting east and south coast beaches like Île aux Cerfs and Blue Bay.

22/02/2022

Whether you're visiting Cancun, Mexico, for a family trip, spring break or a romantic getaway, you'll discover a selection of stunning beaches. While you could spend the bulk of your vacation lounging at a beachfront resort's stretch of sand, it's worth venturing off-site to other beaches in the area. Visitors say Playa Maroma is a must-see option thanks to its crystal-clear water and prime snorkeling conditions. Many also rave about Playa Delfines, which provides countless opportunities to catch a glimpse of frolicking dolphins. For a quiet escape from the Cancun crowds, head to the beaches on nearby Isla Mujeres.

22/02/2022

A trip to the U.S. Virgin Islands appeals to all types of travelers, as St. John, St. Thomas and St. Croix cater to different categories of beachgoers. Beach lovers who want to get away from the crowds should head straight to St. John, where the quieter sands of Honeymoon and Salomon beaches appeal to privacy-seeking couples. St. Thomas' photogenic Magens Bay is perfect for photo-ops (though other tourists might get in your shot), and St. Croix's Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge is ideal for vacationers wanting to share the sand and surf with leatherback sea turtles.

22/02/2022

Located off the northeastern coast of Australia, the Whitsunday Islands feel like an entirely different world. The archipelago sits adjacent to the Great Barrier Reef and offers an incredibly unique, albeit fragile, ecosystem. Some of the best beaches on this collection of 74 islands include Betty's Beach, Whitehaven Beach and Chalkies Beach, but there are plenty of stunning spots to choose from. When you're not sunbathing on pearl-white sand or snorkeling through turquoise water, unwind at one of the bungalows or luxury ecoresorts situated on Hamilton Island or Long Island.

22/02/2022

Boasting 333 islands, resplendent resorts, sparkling waters and endless stretches of pristine sand, Fiji is the perfect spot for paradise-seeking beachgoers. Travelers who want to snorkel while on vacation should set their sights on Taveuni's diverse coral reefs. Meanwhile, those pining for the tropical beaches featured in the movie "Cast Away" and multiple seasons of the TV show "Survivor" can catch a ferry from Port Denarau and head directly to one of the 20 islands that make up the Mamanuca Islands. Popular options include Qalito Island and Vomo Island.

18/02/2022

This Hawaiian island offers a wide range of experiences for visitors. You can surf, enjoy a meal on the beach at a five-star luxury resort in Wailea, ride a horse across a dormant volcano in Haleakala National Park, or hike through a rainforest in the West Maui Mountains. The natural scenery is amazing-it's truly one of the most beautiful islands in the world.

When it comes to accommodation, there is something for everyone here, from rustic hippie bungalow bed and breakfasts to five-star luxury resort hotels. Wailea has all the luxury resorts-it's like the beachfront Beverly Hills of Maui. If you're staying here, be sure to venture out and spend some time in Kihei, where the locals hang out.

18/02/2022

The Eternal City is more like a giant, living museum. Visitors are immersed in and surrounded by thousands of years of history. It's a relatively compact city, and a three-day itinerary gets you to the minimum number of must-see places.

These must-see sites for any visitor include the Colosseum and adjacent Roman Forum; the Pantheon; and Vatican City, a separate country in the middle of central Rome.

Take some time to explore the outskirts of Rome, too. Consider a hike along a tomb-lined section of the Appian Way, the ancient Roman superhighway, and a visit to one of the aqueduct ruins outside the city.

If you feel like hitting the beach after all your exploring, Rome has a wonderful assortment of beach towns just a short drive away on the Lazio Coast. Escape the heat, hustle, and bustle of the city to bathe in the cool waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

18/02/2022

This incredible sight, one of the seven natural wonders of the world, is in the U.S. state of Arizona. It's one of those beautiful places for which photos or video just don't do it justice-its sheer size and scope is hard to comprehend.

With geology formed over the past two billion years, yes billion, the 277 mile-long canyon itself is believed to have been started around five to six million years ago. It was formed by the flow of the Colorado River, which still flows through it and continues to erode the geology along its course. The Grand Canyon is up to 18 miles wide in places and up to a mile deep. Imagine standing on the edge, looking down a sheer rock wall almost a mile to the river below.

Most visitors come to the area referred to as the South Rim. This is where a number of impressive hiking trails into the Grand Canyon begin and great overlooks are spread along the rim road, known as Desert View Drive. A range of accommodations are available here and nearby, from tents to a rustic luxury canyon-side resort built from logs. A few accommodations are also found on the remote North Rim.

17/02/2022

Frankfurt has long been one of Germany's most important cities. For centuries an independent city state, the many old buildings and world-class attractions and fun things to do here make this historic former imperial city a great place to spend a weekend break, or even longer if you're looking for a base from which to explore the surrounding countryside. The city is situated on the River Main, and evidence of its past as an important trading center are easy to spot, especially in the impressive Old Town area. Highlights include wandering the delightful Römerberg, a well-preserved pedestrian friendly city square known for its fountain, medieval townhomes, attractive boutique shops and galleries, and excellent cafés and restaurants with al fresco dining options. The square is also home to historic buildings, including the Old Town Hall and a number of fine old churches.

17/02/2022

The attractive medieval Old Town area of Nuremberg (Nürnberg) today stands testament not just to the rich cultural traditions that have shaped Germany, but also to the country's modern ingenuity. After near total devastation during WW2, the vast majority of the city's famous medieval architecture previously untouched for centuries required rebuilding. And rather than bulldoze and erect less appealing modern structures, the decision was made to rebuild the city's old center exactly as it had been before the war. The results are simply stunning. So much so, in fact, that all but an expert would be hard pressed to tell that much of what you now see in the Altstadt was, only decades ago, mostly rubble.

17/02/2022

The delightful town of Baden-Baden is well-known as Germany's spa capital. Thanks to its mild climate and hot springs, this charming town in the heart of the popular Black Forest tourist region has for centuries been the go-to destination for the rich and royalty seeking authentic and therapeutic spa town experiences. Nowadays, a visit to what is still regarded as one of the must visit places to go in Germany is thankfully attainable for all, and every effort should be made by travelers to the country to spend at least a day exploring Baden-Baden. And, of course, no trip to beautiful Baden-Baden should be undertaken without taking a plunge or paddle in one of its wonderful spas. A tradition that dates all the way back to Roman times, you'll first want to visit the town's famous Spa Garden, the Kurgarten. Long the center of Baden-Baden's cultural scene, it's here visitors flock to explore the town's exquisite boutique shops and art galleries, as well as enjoying its many great restaurants and cafés.

16/02/2022

The old town of Lamu, on the Indian Ocean island of the same name, was established in the 14th century. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the port city is a mish-mash of cultures – Swahili, Asian, Arabic, European – while along the laid-back coast majestic dhows sail by all day long.

16/02/2022

More than 3,000 narrow, quartz sandstone pillars make up Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area in the Hunan Province. These natural wonders, many higher than 656ft, are broken up by ravines, gorges, caves and waterfalls. It’s easy to see why the UNESCO World Heritage Site was James Cameron’s inspiration for Avatar.

16/02/2022

Home to the world’s tallest trees, Redwood National Park, north of San Francisco, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of an International Biosphere Reserve that protects close to half of the planet’s old-growth redwoods some of which are 370ft high. With more than 200 miles of trail routes, it’s ideal for camping, hiking and riding.

16/02/2022

The crumbling façades of this island nation's capital keep bringing in waves of travelling artists, rum fanatics and cigar smokers to the city. It’s where Hemingway wrote seven of his books and drank Mojitos at La Bodeguita del Medio. And with temperatures of 27°C in December, it’s an ideal winter-sun destination.

16/02/2022

Considered to be the cultural centre of Japan, Kyoto is awash with ancient temples and shrines, serene teahouses and sublime gardens. The bright-orange Fushimi-inari, a shinto shrine in the hills, is a visual beauty. Grab an artisan coffee, taken very seriously in the traditional city, and make the two-hour pilgrimage through the shrine's thousands of torii (gates). Other spots worth visiting include Gion, the home of the geishas, the golden pavilion of Kinkaku-ji and Nishiki market for street food or a traditional kaiseki feast at one of the city's local restaurants.

10/02/2022

Malaysia is home to a beautiful medley of cultures (Chinese, Indian, and Malay) and a diverse smattering of terrain: bustling cities with towering buildings, verdant rain forests with incredible wildlife, and idyllic islands with dreamy beaches. But all of this and more has been closed to the world for much of the pandemic. Now that the island of Langkawi is open via a travel bubble, with the rest of the country expected to follow suit in 2022, travelers can once again experience Malaysia's many gifts. Langkawi, a beach lover's paradise, blends unspoiled nature (UNESCO listed Kilim Karst Geoforest Park) and unparalleled luxury (Four Seasons Resort, Datai Langkawi), while cosmopolitan capital Kuala Lumpur draws visitors with its gleaming Petronas Towers, delicious hawker food stalls, and shopping. Then there's Borneo, complete with wildlife-packed jungles and a rich Indigenous culture, as well as Desaru Coast, a 3,900 acre area that's home to coveted resorts like the One&Only Desaru Coast, a tropical oasis that opened in early September 2020 (the brand's first in Asia).

10/02/2022

Newport is considered one of the sailing capitals of the world. It is home to the largest fleet of America's Cup 12 Meter yachts, most of which are available for charter. In May, the coastal town is welcoming a Sailing Museum that is sure to solidify that title. Over the past few years, a slew of hotel openings have closed a much-needed gap for luxury accommodations, including Hammett's Hotel, Brenton Hotel, and The Wayfinder Hotel. The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection is debuting the property's highly anticipated transformation conceived by Dallas based design collective Swoon the lobby, dining room, and shared areas are now complete with guest rooms finishing early next year. Renowned beverage executive Maxwell Britten has joined the team as chief cocktail curator alongside an amazing chef who cooks up a selection of elevated pub inspired dishes. And don't miss Giusto, at Hammett's Hotel, which serves up excellent Italian with a Rhode Island twist.

10/02/2022

In late 2021, Panama launched a tourism platform along with the coolest tagline in travel: "Live for More." With a booming coffee scene and a renewed focus on its culture, history, and biodiversity, the Central American nation is ready for its moment in the spotlight. It's an attractive place for those looking to get out of resort mode and into a world open for exploration and adventure. Immersive environmental experiences abound here, including trekking through the rainforest on its suspended hanging bridges and walking to the top of the Volcán Barú, an active volcano with both Pacific and Atlantic Ocean views from the top. There is also abundant opportunity to learn from Panama's seven Indigenous communities, each of whom offer their own personalized experiences and are happy to share their craftsmanship and traditions. Panama offers plenty of luxury, too. In its capital city, check into the American Trade Hotel, centrally located in Panama's Casco Viejo district, a historic neighborhood which happens to also be a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

10/02/2022

Before the pandemic, Phuket was beautiful but crowded, full of beach bars and tourists chasing all-nighters. It's still full of energy and surrounded by the same pristine sea glass colored water, but its luxurious side is finally getting the attention it deserves, from its high-end coffee shops to its cocktail bars. Hide from the world in paradise with a stay in one of the private pool residences at Trisara, featuring kitchens, a private chef, butler service, and breathtaking views over the sea, as well as access to the resort's PRU restaurant, which has earned both a Michelin star and a Michelin green star. Or book a stay at the brand-new V Villas Phuket, which offers a curated selection of 19 private-pool, 1-, 3-, and 4 bedroom villas. Later, party the night away in Phuket Old Town with inventive cocktails at Club No. 43 (think: rum with grilled pineapple juice and espuma), or settle in for a great dinner and a night of daring performances at the Junkyard Theatre, which just launched a weekly Saturday night show.

10/02/2022

nown for its dynamic combination of luxury, design, and fashion influence, São Paulo is an international metropolitan hub of arts and culture. It's the largest city in South America, hosting an array of entertainment opportunities such as fabulous hotels, decadent restaurants, high-class museums, and iconic mid-century architecture. With airlines including American adding flights throughout Brazil in 2022 and a flourishing hospitality renaissance throughout the city, São Paulo is well prepared for its anticipated influx of new travelers. A must-visit destination for 2022 is the Rosewood São Paulo, located in the heart of São Paulo's Cidade Matarazzo and housed in a historic landmark building. Here, visitors will encounter 200 plus luxurious guest rooms, suites, and residences, plus six restaurants and bars and two pools.

10/02/2022

This coastal Georgia city is rightly famous for its atmospheric, moss-draped streets and squares, not to mention its hundreds of years of history. But lately Savannah has been boosted by creativity and innovation outside the sometimes frozen in amber Old Town, which means now is a particularly compelling time to visit. Make home base the brand new Thompson Savannah, a slick 13 story tower with interiors by Studio 11 Design that anchors the still-developing Eastern Wharf neighborhood. Phase one of the 54-acre development, which aims to turn a once industrial waterfront into a contemporary mixed use destination, includes hundreds of apartments, fitness trails, access to the Savannah River, and multiple bars and restaurants, including Fleeting, a seasonally driven spot inside the Thompson. At the same time, Savannah's other major waterfront destination has also come into its own. The Plant Riverside District, a stone's throw from Old Town, marked its official grand opening in November 2021, putting a bow on a bustling JW Marriott hotel, countless restaurants and bars, and multiple live performance venues all along a rebuilt waterfront. Not that all the action is along the river: The ever evolving Starland District, a short drive from Johnson Square, has its share of hangouts including Starland Yard, a food truck park that's also home to the excellent Pizzeria Vittoria Napoletana; Two Tides Brewing Company, which pours hazy ales and delicious sours in a super cool taproom; and Troupial, a Venezuelan cafe. You'll also want to pack Wildsam Savannah, a newly released field guide that helps visitors understand the layers of history (and the contemporary politics) that are fueling the latest renaissance in Savannah.

10/02/2022

The only path in the world to follow the whole of a country's coastline, the Wales Coastal Path celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2022. Walking its 870 miles would take three months, but its most spectacular stretches can be seen in one visit and in style. St David's in Pembrokeshire, west Wales, is Britain's smallest city with a mere population of 1,600 and is home to a Medieval cathedral, a luxury hotel inside Roch Castle, some excellent pubs, and the upscale St David's Gin & Kitchen. Hiking paths with unbeatable coastal vistas are within easy reach (try the St David's Head loop) and pass neolithic tombs and hillforts.

10/02/2022

After an extremely challenging 20-month closure, India reopened to vaccinated travelers on Nov. 15, 2021. Those looking toward South Asia in the new year, perhaps to see the Taj Mahal in Agra or hit the Goan beaches, should make sure Udaipur is on the itinerary. The city of lakes in southern Rajasthan is thought of as the most romantic Indian destination (even called the "Venice of the East") but it's not just for honeymooners. From the vibrance of Hathi Pol bazaar and Shilpgram, an artisanal compound on the outskirts of the city with a festival set to return on Jan. 22, to the serenity of Lake Pichola, the artificial lake made in the 14th century, Udaipur is a city where you can fully immerse in Rajasthani culture. A hub of Indian luxury, Udaipur is now home to the country's first Raffles hotel, which opened in October. This private island hotel on Udai Sagar Lake is accessible only by boat something of a trademark for the over the top hotels of Udaipur. Meant to be a flagship hotel in the Raffles portfolio, complete with brand staples (think: bars, both Long and Writers), 101 lavish suites, Rasoi cooking school, and lakeside open air restaurant Belvedere Point.

10/02/2022

Todos Santos is one of Mexico's pueblo mágicos, or "magic towns," and locals are working to retain its history and culture while embracing the steady stream of travelers who have begun venturing an hour north of Cabo San Lucas to discover its charm. The area saw a handful of new boutique resorts pop up in 2021 that provide luxury amenities while keeping the rugged land and local flora the centerpiece. Wellness-focused Paradero describes itself as a "landscaping project" that just so happens to have luxurious suites, and El Perdido, an all villa resort less than five miles south, provides all-terrain vehicles so visitors can get to Los Cerritos beach, the local surf break of choice. Oceanfront Rancho Pescadero's multimillion-dollar transformation will be complete in the spring. Bookings for its oceanfront villas and penthouse rooms some with private rooftops and plunge pools open in January. Todos Santos has fully embraced farm-to-table dining, with Javier Plascencia's orchard-adjacent Jazamango leading the way, and Santa Terra, a cosmopolitan oyster bar meets arts and entertainment venue concept, is in the process of adding multiple bars and restaurants, plus a glamping site and amphitheater, according to its developer, "without chopping down a single tree."

10/02/2022

The beaches of St. Petersburg and nearby Clearwater are consistently ranked among the best in the U.S. and even the world, but there's more to this destination than white sand, pristine waters, and 361 days of sunshine per year. St. Pete/Clearwater offers more than 30 museums and galleries featuring world-renowned artists like Andy Warhol and Pablo Picasso, as well as the largest collection of Salvador Dalí's work outside of Spain. One could say brewing the perfect beer is also an artform that St. Pete/Clearwater has mastered, with its trail of 35+ locally owned craft breweries. Playfully nicknamed the "Gulp Coast," complete your experience with a digital passport that tracks your beer-sampling progress. These year-round offerings mean you can visit any time, but head over in June 2022 to revel in the 20th anniversary of St. Pete Pride, the largest Pride event in Florida, hosting events for everyone from friends and families to couples and solo travelers.

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