The Best Weekend Getaways to Take Right Now

Here's where to spend a few blissful days for that well-deserved break.

best weekend trips 2020

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Stowe, Vermont

best weekend trips 2020

Stowe may be a popular ski destination, but it's equally appealing in the fall with its abundance of outdoor pursuits. And, obviously, the foliage alone is reason enough to visit. The 68-room Topnotch Resort sits on an expansive 120 acres with views of Mount Mansfield. Hotel activities include horseback riding, ATV tours, biking, wagon rides, and, for something a little more relaxing, a lovely spa.

Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts

best weekend trips 2020

Want to escape to a quaint New England seaside village? Look no further than Martha's Vineyard, with its miles of beaches and historic houses. Stay in Edgartown, a former whaling port, and you'll have access to shops, galleries, and restaurants galore. The Christopher is a chic boutique hotel with just 15 rooms that mix modern design with a classic New England aesthetic. For a seamless—and fast (read: no traffic)—trip from the New York area, book a flight on Tradewind Aviation.

Read Reviews The Christopher

Telluride, Colorado

best weekend trips 2020

It is a bit of a trek to get to this Colorado hideaway, but so worth it for its unlimited supply of fresh mountain air. The Madeline Hotel & Residences, an Auberge Resort , is surrounded on three sides by the majestic San Juan Mountains. Horseback ride through Colorado's backcountry, go fly fishing, cycle the mountains, or simply let the hotel set up a picnic feast for you in the middle of a scenic alpine meadow. However you choose to spend your days, you're guaranteed to return home refreshed.

Read Reviews Madeline Hotel & Residents, Auberge Resorts Collection

Washington, Connecticut

best weekend trips 2020

A quick two-hour drive from New York City, Washington, Connecticut has long been a retreat for a very discerning, moneyed crowd, because of its rolling hills, historic architecture, and proximity to the city. Soak that all in at the grand Mayflower Inn & Spa, an Auberge Resort , set on 58 acres of manicured gardens and woodland. There's plenty to do, including hiking, fly-fishing, archery, tennis, and croquet. In 2021, for its 100th anniversary, the hotel was refreshed by celebrated designer Celerie Kemble.

Read Reviews Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection

Whitefish, Montana

lone mountain and big sky montana at night

For a more adventurous weekend getaway, the mountain town of Whitefish, Montana offers four seasons of activities—from skiing Whitefish Mountain to hiking through Glacier National Park. Book a stay at the Lodge at Whitefish Lake , a classic mountain lodge that offers suites in the main building as well as standalone luxury homes on the property.

Read Reviews Lodge at Whitefish Lake

Malibu, California

best weekend trips 2020

This 27-mile stretch of sparkling ocean and beach is the epitome of barefoot luxury, which is why so many Hollywood A-listers own homes here. Hotels are pretty scarce, all the more lending to Malibu's locals-only vibe. Stay at the 47-room Malibu Beach Inn , located right on the water on a strip of coastline nicknamed Billionaire's Beach for all of its famous homeowners, like Larry Ellison, who owns 10 properties. For a real splurge, book a room at the intimate 16-room Nobu Ryokan , an oasis like no other that marries serene Japanese minimalism with the iconic California coast.

Read Reviews Malibu Beach Inn

Read Reviews Nobu Ryokan Malibu

Annapolis, Maryland

annapolis, maryland

Just 45 minutes outside of Washington, D.C., Annapolis feels a world apart. Yes, it's home to the United States Naval Academy, but it's far more than a college town. Embrace its nautical legacy with a visit to the Annapolis Maritime Museum, followed by an afternoon out on the water. And then enjoy Maryland's famous crabs for dinner before retiring to 134 Prince , a luxury inn in a Dutch Colonial home.

Read Reviews 134 Prince

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

autumn colors

Massachusetts' Berkshires are a year-round destination full of scenic hikes, stellar art museums, like MASS MoCA and the Clark Art Institute, and fun seasonal programming, like the region's famous Tanglewood concert series. It's also a hotbed for wellness resorts, including Canyon Ranch Lenox , which is centered around a Gilded Age mansion, and Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa , which is home to a 29,000-square-foot spa.

Read Review s Canyon Ranch Lenox

Read Reviews Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa

best weekend trips from us 2020

For East Coasters, Bermuda makes for a perfect weekend getaway. It's just a two-hour flight from NYC and Washington, D.C., meaning it basically takes less time to get there than it does to drive out to the Hamptons. Once you're on the island, head to The Loren at Pink Beach if you're in the mood for a little solitude. The property's one- and three-bedroom villas have their own private pools, making them prime spots for lounging and sipping on Bermuda's famed rum swizzles.

Read Reviews The Loren at Pink Beach

Bar Harbor, Maine

bar harbor,acadia national park,maine

A gateway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is everything you'd want from a coastal New England town, from stellar seafood restaurants to a bustling harbor from which you can easily hop on a boat for the day. The Primrose is a cottage-style inn built in 1878, but completely refreshed with new decor in 2020.

Read Reviews The Primrose

The North Fork, New York

mitchell park  marina greenport, new york

The South Fork of Long Island (aka the Hamptons and Montauk) may be buzzier, but for a more low-key, quiet, and down-to-earth alternative, head to the North Fork. Oysters at Little Creek Oyster Farm in Greenport are a must, as are the homemade pies at Briermere Farms in Riverhead. Then spend your afternoons visiting the area's many wineries, such as Bedell, Sparkling Pointe, and Kontokosta before retiring to the Sound View Greenport , a chic hotel where every room looks out onto the Long Island Sound and has direct access to the private beach.

Read Reviews Sound View Greenport

Asheville, North Carolina

asheville north carolina aerial view at sunset

Drive the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway on your way to Asheville—the fall foliage is particularly spectacular, though the views are majestic no matter the season. There, you'll want to spend plenty of time at the impressive Biltmore Estate, the largest private home in the country, built by George Vanderbilt at the end of the 19th century. While you can't stay in the home itself, you can stay on the property at the Inn on Biltmore Estate , which grants you access to the Biltmore gardens, Antler Hill Village, and the Biltmore Winery.

Read Reviews Inn on Biltmore Estate

Asbury Park, New Jersey

best weekend trips 2020

When the Asbury Hotel opened in 2016, it promised to bring about a much classier era to the oft-maligned Jersey Shore—and, in particular, the city of Asbury Park. It's just an hour away from New York City, but will feel like a proper vacation. Aside from the beach, which is a block away, the Asbury has plenty of al fresco spaces fit for play, including an expansive rooftop space that screens outdoor movies.

Read Reviews The Asbury Hotel

Texas Hill Country

texas bluebonnet field

Easily accessible from both Austin and San Antonio, Texas Hill Country is filled with quaint towns, wineries, and, in the spring, fields of blossoming bluebonnets. Treat yourself to a wellness weekend at the Sage Hill Inn & Spa , a 16-room luxury property set on 88 acres just 25 miles outside of Austin. Spend your days meandering the hiking trails, getting a massage at the spa, or playing a game of pickleball on the courts.

Read Reviews Sage Hill Inn & Spa

Golden Isles, Georgia

Wood, Property, Real estate, Outdoor furniture, Furniture, Interior design, Hardwood, Daylighting, Fixture, Balcony,

Located along Georgia's Atlantic coast between Savannah and Jacksonville, Florida, Jekyll Island is one of the barrier islands comprising the Golden Isles. Here, you can summer like the Vanderbilts, Morgans, Pultizers, and Rockefellers once did at the Jekyll Island Club Resort . There are loads of leisure activities, 20-plus miles of paved bicycle exploration, and two open-air restaurants. It's easy to see why some of the great American dynasties returned here year after year.

Read Reviews Jekyll Island Club Resor t

The Finger Lakes, New York

waterfall and bridge at watkins glen state park, new york

The West Coast might get the lion's share of attention when it comes to wine regions, but the Finger Lakes is perfect for a weekend away for East Coasters or Midwesterners. Explore the eleven lakes, the charming towns that surround them, and the scenic gorges. Make your home base Aurora on Cayuga Lake. It's home to the Inns of Aurora , a collection of five boutique hotels in historic buildings.

Read Reviews Inns of Aurora

Mackinac Island, Michigan

aerial view of mackinac island, michigan, usa

Retreat to Michigan's Mackinac Island for a leisurely weekend in what might feel like a bygone era. The island, located in between the state's Lower and Upper Peninsulas on Lake Huran, has banned cars, resulting in quite a peaceful atmosphere. Stay at the historic Grand Hotel , which bills its 660-foot-long porch as the world's longest.

Read Reviews Grand Hotel

Sedona, Arizona

cathedral rock near sedona

Sedona has the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation—the hiking is superb, as are the spa resorts. The 70-acre Enchantment Resort has the best of both worlds, with 50 hiking trails and an extraordinary destination spa called Mii Amo. (As of September 2022, the spa is closed for renovations, but will reopen in late 2022 or early 2023.) The property is also close to downtown Sedona, where you can get your fill of shopping between art galleries and funky boutiques.

Read Reviews Enchantment Resort

Lexington, Kentucky

horses grazing in pasture, elevated view

Kentucky has two major claims to fame: horse racing and bourbon. You'll find both in and around Lexington, between the city's famous Keeneland Race Course and the 15 distilleries within 45 miles of the city. While in town, stay at the ultra-modern 21c Museum Hotel Lexington , which also functions as a museum.

Read Reviews 21c Museum Hotel Lexington

Cape May, New Jersey

cape may beach ave

Cape May is perhaps the most charming of all of New Jersey's beach towns, thanks to the colorful Victorian-era houses that line its streets. Spend the day at the beach or peruse the shops of the Washington Street pedestrian mall, which is particularly festive in December. Congress Hall is the grande dame in this seaside resort town, and it's been hosting guests since 1816.

Read Reviews Congress Hall

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Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

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Stefanie Waldek is a Brooklyn-based writer covering architecture, design, and travel. She's worked on staff at Architectural Digest, ARTnews, and Oyster.com, a TripAdvisor company, and has contributed to Condé Nast Traveler, The Washington Post, Design Milk, and Hunker, among others. When she's not dreaming about midcentury chairs, you can find her re-watching The X-Files,  likely in an airport lounge or on a plane.

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50 Best Family Vacation Ideas on a Budget for 2024

From all-inclusives in the Caribbean to quick getaways in the U.S., there's something for every traveler in your group.

family running and splashing into sea together with body boards

It's not lost on us that travel, like everything else, is getting more expensive, so we focused many of our picks on properties that provide great value. When we feature splurgy spots, rest assured they're worth every penny.

Whether you're looking to chill out at an all-inclusive resort , get active in the great outdoors , check out new attractions at a theme park, hit the beach or cozy up at ski resort , there's a destination or experience here to match every vacation vibe and party size. After all, bringing the grandparents comes with so many benefits, not the least of which is babysitting so you can score some much-needed time for an interruption-free dinner, spa treatment or romantic walk on the beach.

Use this guide to help narrow down your options, and then check out the Good Housekeeping Institute 's tried-and-tested list of essential travel gear and accessories to get ready for your trip. You can also consult our guides on how to choose a family-vacation hotel as well as how to keep all ages entertained . Since the early bird gets the best deal, shore up your spring break and summer vacation plans now.

Mexico and the Caribbean

a slide with a shell that says"mexico and the caribbean"

Spend your days rolling in the waves, relaxing by the pool or enjoying quiet time (thanks to some superior kids' clubs) at these island resorts.

Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya, Mexico

nickelodeon hotels resorts riviera maya, mexico

With massive waterparks, daily slimings and Nickelodeon characters galore, the kids have it made at the all-inclusive Nickelodeon Hotels & Resort Riviera Maya, a Good Housekeeping 2024 Family Travel Award Winner. But grown-ups aren’t left out of the fun. Tequila tastings, spa treatments and romantic dinners can be on your agenda thanks to the supervised club for kids ages 4 to 12. And while you probably wouldn’t be booking a SpongeBob-themed room if you didn’t have the kids in tow, the decor is as mod and classy as it can be. All the accommodations are suites that sleep up to five and have two bathrooms. Suites have direct access to a pool from the balcony. (Yes, even on the top floor!)

RELATED: Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana Is the Best Place to Travel With a Baby and a Sibling

Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas

view of atlantis hotel in the bahamas, good housekeeping's pick for best family vacation destinations

Winner of a 2024 Family Travel Award, Atlantis is a top choice for families of all ages looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure. Its adrenaline-pumping waterpark features high-speed slides, including a one-of-a-kind tube slide down a Mayan pyramid. Animal encounters, like getting up close to a dolphin, are thrilling in a different way. But on the other side of the massive resort, the beaches are super chill. The gentle water is just perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. Supervised clubs for kids, tweens and teens truly wow, so adults can enjoy the casino and a meal at one of the resort's fine-dining restaurants.

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Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda, Dominican Republic

the sunset at club med michès playa esmeralda, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

Movies under the stars, trapeze lessons, windsurfing — with cool activities like these, kids will never want to leave this newish resort in the lush, away-from-it-all part of the island. Supervised clubs for babies through teens keep the good times rolling while you’re at the adults-only Zen pool or doing treetop yoga. (Yes, that’s a thing.) Solar panels, recycling, plastic-free water bottles and other sustainable initiatives are part of the eco-minded resort culture.

Beaches Negril Resort & Spa, Negril, Jamaica

a sparsely attended white sand beach at beaches negril, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

While this all-inclusive resort and 2024 Family Travel Award-winner caters to all ages, toddlers and preschoolers will be star-struck. Sesame Street characters entertain them with story times, dance parties and even puppet-making! That’s on top of the mini water slides, splash areas and a playground that makes little ones squeal with glee and wears them out, so they’ll hit the sack early.

Private childcare and supervised kids’ clubs (for babies through teens, including those with special needs) are an option when you want a spa treatment, a quiet dinner or just to read a book on the resort's idyllic 7-Mile Beach. All the rooms and suites got a glow-up in 2020, plus there are new villas with butler service (sign us up!)

RELATED: 20 Best Caribbean Resorts for Families to Visit

Fairmont Mayakoba, Playa del Carmen, Mexico

an aerial view of the beach at fairmont mayakoba, a good housekeeping pick for best family resort

When it comes to baby and kid gear, this luxury resort has you covered. Need a bottle warmer? They got it. How about a step stool for a toddler to reach the sink? Yours for the asking. With these worries aside, you can concentrate on the beauty of the surroundings (the resort is surrounded by a lush mangrove forest) and incredible bucket-list activities, like kids’ carnivals and night kayaking. All the rooms have received a glow-up and there's a sleek new beach club to boot.

Rock House Resort, Turks & Caicos

the infinity pool at the rock house resort, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

Your family may never leave the water at this Mediterranean-inspired oasis , which opened in May 2022. In addition to a full kitchen and roomy living room, many of the villa-style accommodations feature a spacious private pool. (Yes way!) And if your crew ever tires of it, fun awaits at the resort’s oceanfront infinity pool and stretch of white sand beach, which is exclusively for resort guests. Just note that while a cliffside setting makes the resort incredibly picturesque, it’s impossible to navigate with a stroller — so bring the tweens, teens and even grandparents if they don’t have trouble climbing stairs.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Aruba Resort

embassy suites by hilton aruba resort

A brand that's popular with families because it offers separate sleeping spaces for kids and adults, Embassy Suites recently opened a location in Aruba. (Pinch us now.) The 330-suite hotel boasts a kids' pool and playground and is just steps away from the iconic Eagle Beach. A breakfast buffet (with made-to-order items) is included in the price, which is already a value. Rooms also feature a kitchenette, so you can stash drinks and snacks and save your budget for the island's many incredible water activities.

New England Cozy

a slide that says new england cozy with a whale tail

Lakes, lighthouses and hiking trails make New England a great place to visit in almost any season.

Quisisana Resort, Lovell, ME

two friends frolic in a lake at the quisisana resort, a good housekeeping pick for family vacation destinations

Kids will get a digital detox at this all-inclusive lakefront resort , but they’ll be too busy playing to miss their devices. Without TV or a Wi-Fi signal in the comfortable, air-conditioned rooms and cabins, they’ll be fully immersed in the slew of included activities — from paddle boating to tennis to sandcastle-building. They might even learn to kayak or catch their first fish.

At night, music fills the resort. Broadway-style shows, held in a new outdoor theater, entertain all generations. There’s something about the fresh air and a choice of lollipops that keeps most kids from getting too wiggly, and the caliber of the performances is at least on par with good community theater.

The three included daily meals — with menu items like lobster rolls and Maine blueberry pie — will leave your crew’s bellies happy and full. And if you do need Wi-Fi occasionally, you can pop in the main lobby for a signal. Shh: The kids will be fine without it.

Hidden Pond, Kennebunkport, ME

campfire at hidden pond in maine, good housekeeping's pick for best family vacation destinations

Open from May to October, this nature-focused retreat provides a refuge from city life. Yoga sessions in the garden, a shed filled with arts and crafts supplies for kids, guided nature walks and outdoor art classes are easy-going yet exciting at the same time. Cottages with fireplaces foster togetherness, and complimentary breakfast arrives at your door every morning so there's no need to rush out for coffee.

Smugglers' Notch Resort, Jeffersonville, VT

a family goes biking through green hills at smuggler's notch, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

Nestled in the Green Mountains, this resort is just as fun in the summer months as it is during prime ski season. Besides eight heated pools (some with waterslides!), the action-packed lineup of family activities has plenty to do whether you’re traveling with a toddler, teen or both. Sing-a-longs, magic shows and scavenger hunts keep little ones entertained while older kids will welcome the chance to take a guided hike, design and launch a water rocket or play glow-in-the-dark volleyball. A GH 2024 Family Travel Awards winner, condos at this property accommodate up to five bedrooms, making it possible for extended family and friends to stay together.

Ocean Edge Resort and Golf Club, Brewster, MA

the boardwalk to the beach bar at the ocean's edge resort  golf club, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

Beach, pool, eat, repeat — that’s how your crew will spend laid-back days at this Cape Cod gem . The private beach has gentle surf and at low tide, kids can spy little sea creatures in the tide pools. When the tide changes, head to the heated outdoor or indoor pools. Outdoor movies are the perfect wind-down to bedtime. And if you can pry the kids out of the water, activities like scavenger hunts, curated by the resort’s new director of fun (for real!) await. Just make sure to stay in the “mansion” section of the resort because that’s the part with private beach access.

Sebasco Harbor Resort, Phippsburg, ME

the kids' club at the sebasco harbor resort, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destination

Kids will never forget sleeping in a lighthouse next to the ocean. The resort’s 1945 lighthouse contains recently renovated guest rooms with amazing views, sea breezes and conveniences like a fridge and microwave. The lighthouse rooms are also near the resort’s iconic oceanfront saltwater pool, which recently got a makeover. A vintage bowling alley, weekly pirate cruise and old-school kids’ club add to the New England charm.

Bluebird Cady Hill Lodge, Stowe, VT

bluebird cady hill lodge

A fantastic value, this new '70s-inspired cozy lodge is perfect for families who want to explore Vermont's Green Mountains. The scenic trails of Cady Hill Forest are just steps away and downtown Stowe is about a 10-minute walk. Two- and three-bedroom cottages at Bluebird Cady Hill Lodge have plenty of space for families and a kitchen to boot. A game room, fire pits for s'mores roasting and a pool make hanging at the lodge a nice respite in between nature activities.

California Dreamin'

a slide that says california dreamin' with a picture of a palm tree

Choose your Cali adventure: You can find bustling cityscapes, tranquil trails, stunning beaches and even a fairytale castle.

Los Angeles, CA

morning scenery of griffith observatory and downtown la los angeles is good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

Tweens and teens won’t roll their eyes if you suggest a vacay in L.A. — where, trust us, they’ll ask you to eat at In-N-Out-Burger (look cool and say you already had it on the list). Some more must-dos: Visit the Griffith Observatory for the out-of-this-world exhibits and a stellar view of the Hollywood sign, and if you're an outdoorsy family you can hike down from the observatory to the Hollywood Walk of Fame and famous TCL Chinese Theaters .

The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures , where anyone 17 and under gets in free, is conveniently located near the classic La Brea Tar Pits and the cool LACMA ( Los Angeles County Museum of Art). Some outdoor shopping at The Grove L.A. and a beach day in Santa Monica with a spin on the iconic wheel at the Santa Monica Pier will get you more well-deserved parent cred. Or, you can take a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood , where, for now, you can find the only Super Nintendo World open in the United States. Stay at The Garland in North Hollywood, a Good Housekeeping 2024 Family Travel Awards winner. It has a swanky trolley that transports guests to and from Universal, as well as other kid perks like dive-in movies and a retro-chic family suite with bunk beds.

San Diego, CA

an overhead shot of the loews coronado bay over the water in san diego, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destination

Can’t decide between heading to the beach or exploring a big city? San Diego has the best of both worlds, with near-perfect weather to boot. Make your home base a beach resort like the Kona Kai San Diego Resort & Spa , San Diego Mission Bay Resort or, if you're bringing a big group, Shore House at Del, a Good Housekeeping 2024 Family Travel Award winner. Intersperse oceanside fun with short drives to the city’s famous zoo and museums in Balboa Park. Plan to spend at least a half day at Liberty Station , a cultural attraction that has many places to eat and shop. New stores and restaurants are open at Seaport Village , which has a classic carousel for kids to ride.

RELATED: The Best Things to Do in San Diego With the Whole Family

Monterey, CA

guests wearing face coverings and enjoying the kelp forest exhibit at the monterey bay aquarium monterey is a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destination

The number one reason to book a vacation in this coastal town: the aquarium. Yes, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is that good. It levels up the typical touch tank experience by letting little kids crawl through tunnels surrounded by tropical fish displays and use squirt toys to learn how animals stand up to big waves. There’s even a padded zone with eye-level exhibits for toddlers! And the whole family will be wowed by the aquarium’s newish exhibition, "Into the Deep: Exploring Our Undiscovered Ocean." Some of the creatures in the 21 live exhibit areas are newly discovered and haven’t even been named yet. Mind blown! Stay at the hotel next door, InterContinental The Clement Monterey .

Disneyland Resort and California Adventure, Anaheim, CA

the ferris wheel at disneyland california adventure disneyland is a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

If you're looking for a Disney trip with young kids, Disneyland may have the edge over an Orlando vacay. Here are some reasons why: You can get on more rides without as much walking in California, so that means fewer tired and cranky kids. Summer weather is also usually better in Anaheim than in hot-and-humid Florida. And rides like Radiator Springs Racers, which looks like it’s right out of the movie Cars , are Cali-exclusive. The new Villas at Disneyland Hotel offer options that sleep up to 12 guests plus the decor is whimsical.

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More From Forbes

Bucket list travel: the top 50 places in the world.

  • What's on your travel bucket list?
  • No matter how many places are on your bucket list, this ranking will get you dreaming of places near and far.
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According to a new survey, Bali is the top bucket list destination in the world.

What's on your travel bucket list? If you're like most people, the more you travel, the more places you add to your bucket list. So when the editors of the website Big 7 Travel announced the list of the world's top 50 bucket list destinations, we stopped in our tracks and started checking off the boxes.

The website surveyed its 1.5 million-strong social audience  in order to determine the best bucket list places around the world. According to Sarah Clayton-Lea, head of content with Big 7 Travel, this is the first time the site has assembled this list. "Bucket list travel was a trend that popped up again and again in previous surveys when asking our readers what sort of travel content they most enjoyed consuming," says Clayton-Lea. "So, our curiosity got the better of us and we wanted to know which destinations people are dreaming of for 2019/2020."

READ MORE: "Why You Should Skip Iceland And Go To These 9 Under-the-Radar Places"

The results of the world’s top 50 bucket list destinations include some of the most beautiful places on earth. "White sandy beaches are still a must-visit for many, with vibrant cities also making an appearance on a lot of people’s bucket lists," says Clayton-Lea. Countries with naturally beautiful scenery and world-famous landmarks came out on top: 22% of the destinations on the list have white sandy beaches, while 52% are iconic cities.

The famously colorful Bo Kaap neighborhood in Cape Town, South Africa.

In the study, Big 7 Travel found that people were also more likely to add a destination to their list if they had seen it on social media, and 33% of people research vacation destinations on their Instagram feed. "With over one-third of our readers saying they look to Instagram for travel inspiration, it makes sense that cities with colorful neighborhoods (such as Cape Town’s Bo Kaap) made the cut," says Clayton-Lea.

Bali topped the list of the 50 most popular bucket list destination on earth, but there were also some unexpected picks. "The top 10 list has a lot of the expected dream destinations, but there are a few surprises on the list: Paro Valley in Bhutan, for example, or Virunga National Park in the Congo," says Clayton-Lea. "I think this shows a great appetite for a need to get off the grid and can only assume that social media (and Netflix, in the case of Virunga!) is responsible for spreading the word of these amazing places."

An interesting factoid uncovered in the study: Most people have an average bucket list of just 11 places, with the hope of visiting seven of those locations during their lifetime. No matter how many places are on your bucket list, this ranking will get you dreaming of places near and far. Read on for the top 50 bucket list destinations in the world and what Big 7 Travel had to say about each one.

Overlooking the jungle on one of Bali's highly Instagrammed swings.

1. Bali, Indonesia:  "You’ll find beaches, volcanoes, Komodo dragons and jungles sheltering elephants, orangutans and tigers. Basically, it’s paradise. It’s likely you’ve seen an image of Bali on social media at least once in the past seven days, as it’s such a popular bucket list destination for 2019."

2. New Orleans: "The lively city known for its street music, festive vibe and a melting pot of French, African and American cultures is well worth the trip. NOLA is a city packed with adventures at every turn and should be on everyone’s must-visit list."

3. Kerry, Ireland: " All the way west in Ireland is one of the country’s most scenic counties. Kerry’s mountains, lakes and coasts are postcard-perfect, and that’s before you add in Killarney National Park. The unique small towns such as Dingle add to its charm."

El Badi Palace in the Marrakesh medina.

4. Marrakesh, Morocco:  "This ancient walled city is home to mosques, palaces and lush gardens. It’s known as The Red City thanks to the color of the brick walls surrounding the city. The medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Centre."

5. Sydney: "Sydney is known around the world as one of the greatest and most iconic cities on the planet. Amazing things to do aren’t hard to find; the city has gorgeous beaches, great cafes and world-class entertainment on offer wherever you look."

6. The Maldives: "This tropical nation in the Indian Ocean is made up of more than 1,000 coral islands. It’s home to some of the world’s most luxurious hotel resorts, with white sandy beaches, underwater villas and restaurants and bright blue waters."

Paris, France.

7. Paris, France: "One of the most iconic cities in the world, Paris tops many people’s bucket lists. You’ll see so many famous landmarks here: the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame cathedral—the list is never-ending."

8. Cape Town, South Africa: "Cape Town is a dream location to visit: endless natural beauty and clifftop views, pastel pink neighborhoods and turquoise waters."

9. Dubai, U.A.E.: "The high-flying city of the U.A.E, Dubai is one of the most glamorous destinations you’ll ever visit, and is particularly popular with Big 7 Travel readers."

Sunset In Bora Bora, French Polynesia.

10. Bora Bora, French Polynesia: "Bora Bora is Tahiti's most famous island. How do overwater bungalows and underwater adventures sound to you? To us, it’s everything we could want from a bucket list destination."

11. New York: "New York is one of America’s most exciting states. With charming upstate scenery, world-class cuisine and culture and more things to do than you could fit in one lifetime. The city’s five boroughs all have special features; it’s almost impossible to narrow it down"

12. Dubrovnik, Croatia: "As George Bernard Shaw once said, 'Those who seek paradise on Earth should come to Dubrovnik.' With its winding streets, cliffside beach bars and UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Old Town, it’s no wonder Dubrovnik is such a popular spot."

Carlton hill in Edinburgh, Scotland.

13. Edinburgh, Scotland: "With the historic Edinburgh castle looming over the city, culture in spades and wonderfully friendly locals, this is one of the world’s greatest city breaks."

14. Rome, Italy: "Whether it’s your first time in Rome or your 50th, the best thing about this city is that you’ll always discover something new each time you stroll the scenic streets."

15. Paro Valley, Bhutan:  Paro Valley is known for its monasteries, fortresses (or dzongs ) and dramatic landscapes. Tucked between China and India, Bhutan is a mysterious country that prides itself on sustainable tourism. You’ll find Paro Taktsang here, a Himalayan Buddhist sacred site."

At the Jal Mahal Palace at sunset in Jaipur, India.

16. Jaipur, India: "Jaipur is known as the ‘Pink City’ for its pale terracotta buildings. This was originally done to impress the visiting Prince Albert during his 1876 tour of India by order of the Maharaja (Sawai Ram Singh). Even today, it’s illegal to paint buildings any other color."

17. Waikato, New Zealand:  "Waikato, a region in New Zealand’s North Island, is home to massive underground caves, lush rainforest and the buzzy city of Hamilton. But the area’s main attraction? A Middle-earth adventure on the film set of  Lord of the Rings. Hobbiton Movie Set still has the original Hobbit holes from the making of the films."

18. Havana, Cuba:  "Cuba’s capital is almost 500 years old and a riot of color. Brightly painted buildings and vintage cars make Havana a photogenic dream."

A view of Tokyo Skytree and the city skyline from the Tobu Levant Hotel.

19. Tokyo, Japan: "Visiting Tokyo is like visiting the future—flashing neon lights, incredible technology—yet there’s still a rich sense of culture and history."

20. Antarctica:  "Earth’s southernmost continent, Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime destination. Nowhere else can compare with the extreme remoteness of this snowy place. It’s not an easy trip to make, but you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the white wilderness, icy sea kayaking and whale sightings."

21. Vancouver, Canada: "Vancouver is surrounded by water yet close to the mountains and has world-class art, restaurants and heaps of other attractions to keep you entertained."

22. Los Angeles: "In a city with year-round sunshine, glam bars, beaches and hikes, there are endless incredible experiences to enjoy in Los Angeles. It’s no wonder there are almost 5O million ‘LA’ hashtags on Insta."

In Kruger National Park, South Africa.

23. Kruger National Park, South Africa:  "The Kruger National Park is a vast space in northeastern South Africa that is home to a huge array of wildlife. The park has safari experiences of all kinds, allowing you the opportunity to escape busy city living and get back to nature."

24. Santorini, Greece: "Santorini is actually a group of islands; Thíra, Thirassiá, Asproníssi, Palea and Nea Kaméni. Beaches with volcanic black or red sand and clear blue waters make this an ideal holiday spot. With its famous Santorini sunsets, it’s no wonder that it’s one of the most popular bucket list destinations."

25. Moscow, Russia: "Russia’s cosmopolitan capital, Moscow is a beautiful destination to visit in any season. Colorful domes and bell chimes ring out from over 600 churches in the city, and the sense of history is immense. Culture lovers will be impressed with the museums and ballet."

26. Singapore : "Singapore is a small island city-state off southern Malaysia which punches way above its weight on a global level. It’s a modern city with colorful buildings, futuristic bridges and a cloud forest."

London's Westminster Bridge.

27. London, England: "Pretty pink restaurants, futuristic space-age toilets and jungle skyline views are just some of our favorite things about London. And of course, all the classics: Big Ben, red phone boxes and world-class museums and galleries."

28. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil:  "Rio de Janeiro has always been one of the most iconic cities in the world with instantly recognizable landscapes and landmarks."

29. Petra, Jordan: "The ancient Nabatean city of Petra in southern Jordan is surrounded by beautiful red rocks and steep gorges. The world wonder is without a doubt Jordan’s most valuable treasure and greatest tourist attraction."

30. Hong Kong:  "Famous for its skylines and vibrant food scene, what most people  don’t  know is that 70% of Hong Kong is mountains and lush parks. Colorful playgrounds and sci-fi apartment blocks give HK an enviable edge."

Beach and sea waves shot from above in Barbados.

31. Barbados: "Barbados is one of those magical holiday destinations that everybody dreams about visiting. Who  wouldn’t  put this on their bucket list? Nestled in the south of the Caribbean, it offers stunning beauty and wonderful local culture and is the perfect place to unwind."

32. Amsterdam: "Forget about cliched images of smoke shops and gaudy red lights. From floating flower markets to bohemian neighborhoods, this city has it all."

33. Santiago, Chile: "Santiago is a cosmopolitan city with the very best of Chilean culture; art galleries, design shops and handicraft markets, as well as lively Latino nightlife. You’ll stroll through historic neighborhoods with pretty winding streets and charming bars and cafes."

34. Cairo, Egypt: "Cairo is one of the most ancient cities in the world. Sitting on the Nile river with wonderful museums, vibrant culture and friendly locals, it makes for a great holiday."

Biking in Copenhagen.

35. Copenhagen, Denmark: "Copenhagen’s rustic fishing ports, modern graffiti and winding red brick streets are just some of what makes it such a beautiful bucket list destination. It oozes Scandi cool from every corner, with top-notch food, stylish design and an always hip atmosphere."

36. Seoul, Korea: "Seoul is a vibrant metropolis where old-meets-new, with pop culture (K-Pop!) alongside Buddhist temples.

37. Laucala Island Resort, Fiji:  "Laucala Island Resort is a private island in Fiji, in absolute paradise. It is one of three small islands off the northeast coast of Taveuni in Fiji. There are coconut trees, a sustainable farm and miles of beach, as well as coral reefs, postcard-perfect beaches and lush rainforest."

38. Providencia, Colombia: "The Colombian island of Providencia is the perfect combination of South America and the Caribbean. It’s best known for Crab Cay: an unspoiled little island where all there is to do is snorkel and lie on the beach."

Photographing Machu Picchu, Peru.

39. Machu Picchu, Peru: "The best way to get here? Arrive at Machu Picchu in style on the 360° Train that will bring you through the Peruvian countryside to the lost city. The wide, panoramic windows are perfect for soaking up the view, plus they serve Pisco Sours on board."

40. Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo: "Virunga National Park is one of the most biologically diverse areas on the planet and home to the world’s critically endangered mountain gorillas. It’s full of lush rainforest and has received even more attention since the documentary  Virunga."

41. Lisbon, Portugal: "Lisbon, the hilly capital of Portugal, is postcard-perfect with its cobbled streets, pristine waters and local Atlantic beaches."

42. Hanoi, Vietnam: "Hanoi—the capital of Vietnam—is known for its rich history, busy street life and centuries of French, Asian and Chinese influences all blended into one bustling city. It’s a wonderful base from which to explore the North of Vietnam, including Halong Bay and Sapa, while also enjoying the comforts of a modern vibrant city."

A view of Honolulu's Magic Island And Waikiki Beach.

43. Hawaii: "From the hustle and bustle of Oahu to the romance of Maui and off-the-beaten-path adventures on Lanai and Molokai. The Hawaiian Islands are pure paradise. Explore colorful canyons and waterfalls and eat your body weight in fresh poke."

44. Ibiza, Spain: "While you’ll have your fair share of techno club experiences, Ibiza is also one of the most beautiful Spanish islands, with a pretty Old Town and scenic beaches. Spend the day on the beach and the nights in legendary clubs."

45. Beijing, China: "Beijing is China’s political, economic, and cultural center, with six Unesco World Heritage Sites in this city alone. Discover Forbidden City, street food dishes of Peking duck and of course, the Great Wall of China."

46. Budapest, Hungary: "The capital city of Hungary, Budapest is a fairytale city in Eastern Europe. The city itself is separated by the 19th-century Chain Bridge that connects the hilly Buda district with flat Pest—hence the name Budapest."

Photographing Vernazza in Cinque Terre.

47. Cinque Terre, Italy: "Is there anything prettier than this area of centuries-old seaside villages on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline? The five towns (Manarola, Riomaggiore, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare) are made  for bucket lists."

48. Buenos Aires, Argentina: "Bookstores set in palatial theatres, tango dancing in the streets and brightly painted neighborhoods. These are just some of what makes Buenos Aires so beautiful."

49. Las Vegas: "With the bright lights, party atmosphere and endless things to see and do, it’s no wonder that Las Vegas has become a glittering global tourism destination. Take a chance in the casinos until the early hours or see world-class entertainment."

50: Matterhorn, Switzerland: "The Matterhorn is one of the world’s most iconic peaks—the pyramid-shaped mountain, which is very difficult to climb, is said to be the most-photographed mountain in the world."

READ MORE: •  "Ranked: The 20 Most Dangerous Places to Live" •  "Bucket List Travel: The Top 50 Places In The World" •  "Why You Should Skip Iceland And Go To These 9 Under-the-Radar Places" •  "23 Surprising Things That Will Get You In Trouble In Italy"

• "Bucket List Travel: Top 10 Places In The World And Top 29 In The U.S."

Laura Begley Bloom

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CEOWORLD magazine

The 40 Best Leisure Destinations To Visit In 2020

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If you’re looking for the best destination to visit in 2020, Aegean Luxury Yachting’s charter brokers have compiled an exclusive list of the top leisure destinations for the CEOWORLD magazine based on sales and client aspirations. Remarkably, there are only one American destinations on the list – Portland, Maine, US.

Paris has been named the best leisure destination in the world to visit 10 2020, according to the CEOWORLD magazine’s list. Palermo in Italy ranked number 2 on the list, followed by Portugal’s Porto (No. 3), Dubrovnik in Croatia (No. 4), and Morocco’s Marrakech (No. 5).

Magazine placed Tokyo in sixth on the list ahead of Melbourne, and Tel Aviv. Machu Picchu/Cusco and Portland (Maine) round out the list at nine and ten, respectively.

With less than three months to go before the decade is over, it’s time to start planning big things for 2020. CEOWORLD magazine, the leading business & economy publication, has listed the top destinations to travel to in 2020. Take a look and book your tickets already.

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LEISURE TRAVEL

With going places.

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We make dreams and cement lifelong memories by offering truly unique and once in a lifetime travel experiences. Our world-wide reach and in-country contacts allow our travel advisors to custom tailor your vacation experiences to anywhere you wish to go. We are proud to have been to every corner of the world with all of our agents combined! You can find a travel advisor in the area of your interest to work with you step-by-step to make sure your trip is exactly what you are looking for. Where would you like to go next?

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Senior Travel Advisor

I've been a trusted Berkeley travel agent for the last thirty-five years. It's been a wonderful experience to help neighbors and strangers alike to create unforgettable experiences without a hitch. Raised in a small town in Northern Norway, I've lived all over the world including New Zealand, Brazil, Austria, Bulgaria, and the United Kingdom. I've traveled extensively in India, China, Southeast Asia, South America, Europe, Africa, and Eastern Europe with my family. Nothing makes me happier than drawing on my vast experience to arrange unforgettable vacations and adventures for my clients. Whether it's for a once in a lifetime cruise, to explore ancient cultures, roam the great cities of Europe, experience the wonders of an African Safari, or even to escape on a romantic beach getaway — I'm always thrilled to help get you there.

Favorite destinations: I've been everywhere, so it would be impossible to choose! Travel specialty: Leisure Travel — all sorts Additional languages: Norsk

A picture of Laura Leipzig

I've spent 34 years in hospitality, and I still feel passion and enthusiasm for the travel industry. My years as a travel agent have trained me well in many areas, including luxury vacations, cruises and destination events, group programs, and everything in between. I’ve worked in the Travel Department at NBC Burbank Studios arranging news crews on assignment in the field, and for entertainers as guests on the Tonight Show when Jay Leno was the host. Continuing to work in the entertainment industry, I arranged travel for famous musicians on concert tours. My experience has taken me both on the client side working on corporate travel, like Oracle Corporation’s VIP desk, and on the agency side, working with leisure travel clients. So I fully understand what works best for both leisure and business clients. Born and raised in NYC, I lived in Israel and Los Angeles before making my way to the Bay Area where I’ve made Berkeley my home base for the last 28 years. My travel experience runs the gamut: by backpack/tent through Europe and staying in a bedouin tent in the Negev to luxury trips such as in  Rarotonga, Cook Islands, and five of the Hawaiian islands. The world is a big place waiting for us to explore and I’m happy to support people’s desires and needs to travel.

Favorite destinations: Cuba, Jamaica, Israel, and Rarotonga Travel specialty: Jamaica packages and wherever you would like to go next!

A picture of Pat.

After several years of working in a government job, as well as in the legal field,I decided it was time to do something that I had a real passion for. After being bitten by the travel bug, I knew exactly what I wanted to do! I began my travel career in late 2000. The next year proved to be a challenge, with the horrific attack that brought our country to its knees. Still believing in what I was meant to do, I focused on building my customer base, and now I am happy to say that I have clients who have been with me through the years, and reach out for every trip they make. It’s wonderful to have clients who have become friends along the way. I especially enjoy creating once-in-a-lifetime dream trips, and infusing your journey with unique experiences that you might not have thought about. I also enjoy giving a gentle nudge to my clients to try going a little bit outside of their comfort zone—which can bring so many pleasant surprises and enrich life so much. It's hard to say which is my favorite destination, as I always return home with a newly discovered sense of how diverse and interesting the world is. I invite you to call or come by the office, so we can chat about where you'd like to go next. Let's see how we can create a wonderful adventure for you and make that dream a reality!

Favorite destinations: Italy, France, Greece, Kenya and European River cruises Travel specialty: Leisure travel around the world

Photo of Ken Darrow from Going Places Travel.

I'm a modern day hybrid in the travel business — ready to help corporate clients and individuals alike. Having lived and traveled all over the globe I truly understand how the travel world works. I've spent decades developing the skills to make corporate travel efficient and comfortable, and to make your leisure travel comfortable and flawless. I can help you take the perfect trip and have all of your travel needs met. I've traveled extensively having incredible experiences all over Asia, Europe, the Caribbean, Central and South America, the South Pacific and Mexico. In fact, I'm a certified specialist in many of these destinations. Most recently, I've taken trips to Turkey, South Africa, Honolulu, Dominican Republic, Singapore, Vietnam, Cancun, Cabo, and Puerto Vallarta. I earned a Bachelor's degree in History at San Diego State University (Go Aztecs!) and I've had the good fortune to have called Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, and Scotland home at some point in my life.

Favorite destinations: All 7 Continents and the Islands In between Travel specialty: Corporate & Leisure Travel, International Air, Land & Sea Travel Profile Manager Additional languages: Português / Español

Photo og Francie

Love and travel go hand and hand and I fall in love with travel over and over again with each new destination and trip!  I truly fell head over heels when I spent a month traveling through Europe in 1982. I was enamored with the new surroundings and developed my wanderlust plus a mission to see, taste and experience as much of the world as possible. That's  when I knew I wanted to be a travel counselor. My most treasured trips are the ocean and river cruises I've taken, such as the Mediterranean cruise from Venice to Athens, with stops in Croatia, Turkey, Ukraine, and Greece. I also cherished the river cruises on the Rhine. I also loved the river cruises all across the United States—including Alaska and the fabulous Hawaiian Islands. One of my favorite things about being a travel agent is that I get to live vicariously through my clients as I plan their trips and rejoice hearing about their adventures all over the world! I am also quite good at researching, organizing, and understanding people, plus skillful at creating memorable experiences that last a lifetime. I now specialize in small group luxury travel, especially US and European river cruises.  With careful planning I make trips seamless and enjoyable down to every tiny detail so my clients can make the most of their time away without any stress.

Favorite destinations: France, Croatia, Italy, IrelandAlaska, Canada, Hawaian Islands and South Pacific Travel specialty: Destination Specialist for Hawaii, Alaska and Europe

Photo of Ed Klingel from Going Places Travel.

I bring you over 3 decades of travel advisor experience, and my number one priority is my customers! I always look out for my clients' best interest, making sure all of their travel details meet expectations — going above & beyond to ensure all of my clients are happy travelers. I have long standing relationships with various hotels & resorts around the world, allowing me to provide you with exceptional value and exclusive amenities not found on-line. My corporate travel experience includes arranging small to large size groups, both domestic & internationally. Negotiating group airfares, and group hotel contracts offering you special discounted rates & amenities you won't find on-line. I have extensive group experience with many universities, including campus & athletic travel. Team athletic travel included negotiating airline & hotel group contracts, finding private charter flights, bus charters etc. Other corporate group experience includes, Aerospace and all types of incentive travel, over-looking all of the details before & during each trip. I take great pride in my work & really look over all of the travel details. Rest assured, all of your plans will be handled with great care!

Favorite destinations: Mexico, Hawaii, Caribbean, France, Italy, Spain, Greece Travel specialty: Ocean & River Cruises

A photo of Krystian

Travel Advisor

The travel industry is such a gem. What drew me into the hospitality industry a decade ago was the travel arrangements I had to do for a school. The trip I had to plan and book for the students and the school district really opened my eyes into what a detailed and organized person I would have to be to be successful in this field—and I loved it! Since then, I have gotten more involved with booking corporate travel and incentive travel programs, as well as planning leisure travel trips for travelers going to all corners of the world. I thoroughly enjoyed the planning and coordinating process with clients and with vendors, whether they are a quick weekend getaway or in-depth multi week vacations overseas. I was born and raised in Alaska, and I’ve spent much of my youth exploring the land and cultures around me. I’ve always enjoyed learning new things, now as a travel advisor, I thrive on learning about each new destination. In fact, I am a proud certified specialist in New Zealand, Ireland, Qatar, Mexican Riviera, Switzerland, Hawaii, Tahiti and Alaska! What I look forward to the most is when my travelers come back and can’t wait to share with me the stories on their adventure that I had carefully crafted for them.

Favorite destinations: Europe, Australia and New Zealand! Travel Specialty: Leisure Travel and Corporate Travel

A photo of Benjamin

I have been in the travel industry since 2015 and have extensive knowledge in planning incredible and memorable vacations. Having worked for a language translation center in my younger adult years and making friends with people from all over the world who speak languages varying from Arabic to Zulu, I developed a special interest for learning about other cultures. My longing to learn about other cultures and eagerness to try new foreign foods grew to an obsession. It didn't take long for the travel bug to bite, and I had to see wonders of the rest of the world and was hungry to experience them. Now, I love sharing my knowledge and expertise to create customized Itineraries to help my customers embark on unforgettable adventures, experience the world, take in the most breathtaking sights and scenery the journey has to offer. From planning custom fit getaways to arranging adventure tours and family trips, I'm committed to creating immersive experiences for trips that are tailored to your individual tastes. Whether you like traveling with a tour, cruise, or want to customize your own trip, or combine both experiences together, I can help you plan a trip you will never forget. So Let me help you with the planning part and I'll be your "Go to Travel Guy"

Favorite destinations: Hawaii, Europe, Mexico, Bahamas Travel Specialty: Leisure Travel, European Rail Travel

A photo of Cencaria

I’ve been a travel agent for 8 years and I’ve had the pleasure of curating journeys that cater to the young and the young at heart. My experience has led me to focus on helping corporations with their corporate travel, planning adventures across the United States for people who want to stay close, and assisting people who want to escape to the Caribbean islands to sunbathe at an all-inclusive resort in Mexico. Not to mention, luxury travel is kind of my jam as well. People say traveling keeps you young, and I couldn’t agree more! So, are you ready to start your next adventure? Don’t just dream about it—let’s explore the world together. Contact me today, and we’ll create a travel experience that exceeds your wildest dreams. Whether you’re into adrenaline-pumping adventures or serene getaways, the world will be your oyster!

Favorite destinations: Caribbean Islands and Mexico Travel Specialty: Leisure Travel, Corporate Travel, Luxury Travel

A photo of Kate

I have a thorough background in the travel industry, with experience managing logistics from land to sea. I gained vast insight with complex logistical planning writing shipboard letters for a luxury cruise line. I was in charge of communicating information between the ship’s captain and officers and the carrier’s booking agents throughout the world. Travel is a global experience, expanding our world view, connecting us to faraway places, and in turn, finding ourselves on the journey. To travel is to discover ourselves and those we share the adventure with, creating lifelong memories abroad with one another. As a vacation creative, my passion is to make your dream vacation become a reality. Whether you’re booking your honeymoon or visiting a once-in-a-lifetime destination, my expertise is to provide concierge service for smooth take-off and landing. Personalized planning is my signature and the vacation variables are limitless on the map. Going above and beyond is our bread and butter here at Going Places Travel. As a boutique agency, it is our delight to provide travel services to members of our local communities. Our excellent customer service is reflected in the passion of our agents, strong relationships with trusted guides, and our commitment to serve our guests. We’re here for you, anticipating your next adventure on the horizon!

Favorite destinations: Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico,Ireland, and the Yucatan Travel Specialty: Worldwide cruises, luxury vacations, and off the beaten path adventures

A photo of Cheryl

La Jolla Branch Manager

I have had the pleasure of working in many facets of the travel industry for over 35 years—from helping celebrities and high-end luxury clientele to create customized vacations to working major corporations to plan group travel. I take pride in creating spectacular experiences that turn into unforgettable memories. My experience in the industry, combined with my knowledge and skills have given me the opportunity to make every trip seamless and efficient for any client. I understand the importance of customer service and strive to provide a white glove experience for every travel reservation. Europe is one of my top destinations. While London is my favorite, I also love Paris, Amsterdam, and all of Germany. Music is an important part of my life and I love landing in a new country and exploring the music scene, culture, and restaurants there. My love for the ocean has taken me all around Southern California and exploring the Caribbean and Mexico. As an avid fisherman, scuba and free diver, paddle and boogie boarder, I’ve had the pleasure and excitement of experiencing these activities in my daily life as well as during my travel experiences. Every spring, summer, and fall you'll find me at my cabin in Utah. After raising my children, I find myself working with a company that has brought back passion and fulfillment for an industry I’ve always loved. I’m ready to explore the world through my clients’ travel experiences along with my own. Are you ready to travel?? Let’s go somewhere!

Favorite destinations: Europe, Caribbean, North America Travel specialty: HIgh-end Luxury, VIP, Corporate, Vacation and Group Travel.

Photo of Kellee Gray from Going Places Travel.

I have been a travel advisor for 20+ years. Although I specialize in certain areas, I am trained in all aspects of corporate and leisure travel. I love working with my corporate accounts and saving them time and money for all of their needs with air, cars and hotels. But I really love setting up the perfect tour, luxury cruise, or honeymoon! I specialize in customer service and tailor each trip to my clients needs. Some of my favorite trips have been the ones with the most unique experiences. I've walked in the cave where the apostle John wrote the book of revelations and walked in the footsteps of Cleopatra & Caesar. I once got a hickey from a large stingray that stuck onto my side while snorkeling in Belize. I've walked through lava tubes on the Big Island of Hawaii and drove into a volcano in St. Lucia. It's my wish to make travel magical for you and your family. Let me help take the stress out of the planning and maybe even suggest things you might not have thought of. You deserve to travel the world and I look forward to getting to know you!

Favorite destinations: Hawaii, Mexico, CaribbeanTravel Specialty: Honeymoons, Luxury cruises, Island Travel, Beach destinations Certifications/Awards: Uncruise Specialist, Outrigger Specialist, Riu Hotels Specialist, Club Med Specialist, Cayman Islands specialist, Hyatt resorts specialist, Marriott Specialist, and many more!

A photo of Briny

I have been a travel advisor for 10+ years. What I truly enjoy is sharing knowledge with travelers and helping them create their own travel experiences. ‍ What inspires me the most in traveling is the cultures, the food, and the experience of interacting with people from all over the world. My career really started when I started planning trips for my friends and family, eventually I wanted to be fully immersed in the industry and became a professional to help people travel the way they desire. ‍ As a travel advisor, I have helped my clients experience major cruise lines, take in the culture in Europe, and book customized land/air packages—along with inclusive resorts in the Bahamas, the Caribbean, and Mexico. ‍ Personally, Hawaii is my absolute favorite destination in the world—hands down! India (the place I grew up with an amazing culture and heritage) and Dubai are close seconds. One of the best road trips I’ve taken is driving on the Hana Highway in Maui, Hawaii. Where would you like to go? Let’s explore some options together!

Favorite destinations: India, Hawaii, Dubai, Mexico, Bahamas Travel Specialty: Leisure Travel, All- Inclusive Packages , Honeymoons, Luxury cruises, Island Travel Additional Languages: Hindi, Malayalam, Punjabi

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Travel is in my blood. In fact, as a Sagittarius, I have the astrological sign known as “the traveler.”  I got my first taste of travel at ten years old and started what would lead to a life-long passion. My parents took me to Italy to meet my relatives and then onto Greece. I still remember every detail of that trip... down to how the linen sheets felt! I am enthusiastic about every aspect of the travel experience for my clients. If I recommend a hotel to you, I have been to that hotel and inspected every feature firsthand—maybe even the room you are staying in. I have a great love for Italy and my knowledge of this beautiful country extends from the smallest hill towns to Mama Netti's tiny restaurant in Ravello. I've traveled all around the world and find joy in sharing my knowledge. I want to make every experience a memory you will hold close to your heart. I have countless recommendations for any destination you choose to visit in the regions of Italy, Mexico, and the Caribbean. While I focus on luxury travel, I can also work within any budget you have and make your dreams come true. Additionally, I've spent years in corporate travel and incentive group travel, so I’m no stranger to managing corporate accounts if that’s what you need. I look forward to sharing my experience with you and creating that perfect journey in your book of memories.

Favorite destinations: Italy is my absolute favorite, it offers so much history and great beaches. I also love Spain, London and Ireland. Travel Specialty: Luxury & Leisure Travel

A picture of Carolyn.

I have been working in the travel industry for over 25 years. During college I strapped on a backpack and headed to Europe and my love of travel was born. After college I moved myself to Mexico to enroll in a language school and immerse myself in the culture, and later spent 3 months traveling around the country. My passion for immersive, unique and experiential travel remains strong until this day. Some of my most cherished travel experiences include hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, trekking the jungles of the Amazon, exploring the amazing diversity of wildlife in the Galapagos and getting an up close and personal look at Cuba, the people and its history. I have traveled much of Europe, Mexico. Guatemala, Belize, Costa Rica and Panama. I have also traveled to Caribbean and Asia. I strive to keep my thumb on the pulse of what’s the next up-and-coming travel destinations and sharing those with my clients. I enjoy working with individuals and families but also have extensive experience with groups, helping to create itineraries that are well thought out and seamlessly flow to accommodate all groups dynamics. I take great care in planning all my client’s travel as if I were traveling myself. Whether it’s a trip for two or 200, it’s not just a trip but a memory of a lifetime. I take pride in my customer service and responsiveness. Let me take the guesswork and hassle out of planning your next travel adventure to create a tried and true travel experience!

Favorite destinations: Italy, Costa Rica, Cuba, and Galapagos Travel specialty: Group Travel, Experiential Travel

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My love for travel started at a young age as both my parents worked for Trans World Airlines (TWA). We often took quick trips, flying via the "stand-by" benefit of their work, to visit Hawaii, Arizona, Albuquerque, and Missouri. Fast forward to my college years, where I enjoyed exploring and living in England for 3 months and while there, enjoyed visiting France, Spain, and Portugal. Over the course of my adulthood, I have held many different jobs before landing my career as a travel advisor: public school teacher, project manager, personal assistant, and bookkeeper at a travel agency; where I quickly learned the trade and started assisting with travel planning. I realized that my passion and excitement for travel and my attention to detail would easily translate into becoming a travel advisor—my favorite role of all. Whether you are ready to travel now or in the future, I’m available to offer travel advising, custom event travel, and booking services. I have many years of both event and travel planning experience and I’m committed to completing your vision of the perfect event or dream vacation for you and/or your family!

Favorite destinations: Thailand, Italy, Japan, Hawaii, Costa Rica Travel specialty: Family, Multi-Generation, Group and All Types of Leisure Travel

"I've been working with the Going Places Travel Team for over five years. They are fantastic with international and domestic trips, and have consistently provided me with an excellent combination of itineraries and reasonable prices. I've used them for family trips and large trips with more than 50 people. They're responsive, pleasant and very informed about travel in other countries."

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We're in a "post-Covid" world now, but we still take travel safety seriously. We carefully monitor news about weather events, infectious disease concerns, natural and political emergencies, and other potential disruptions to our clients' safe travel. Here's what you can do as well: – If you're traveling overseas, check with your local health authority on the latest vaccinations to your traveling destinations. – Consider travel insurance to make sure you're covered for the unexpected so our agents are fully equipped to assist you not only in your trip planning but protecting your vacation investment. If you have any questions about travel safety, feel free to reach out to us at any time!

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The travel guide inspires travelers to explore the world with some valuable information that adds value to their travel itinerary. It requires smart travel tips that will lead you to hassle-free traveling and you could roam like a local. At  Leisure , we ensure to provide the best travel guides to travelers who look forward to traveling around the world without any trouble. Our team of experts in finding the best travel guides that will suit your travel preferences. You will be assisted with budget-friendly travel tips, best recommendations on hotels, vacation destinations, and top restaurants. We always keep in mind that what type of leisure travel will suit you best and how our tour guides will help you in making your journey cheerful. The best travel guides give you all the information on your destination but our trip advisors keep it simple by making it short, crisp, and precise. If the things are mentioned precisely, then you might understand them in one go. Our travel guides aim to give you the best and latest information on the major vacation destinations around the world to travel enthusiasts. Look nowhere else when you have the best tour guide at your fingertips.

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These Are the Best International Travel Destinations of 2024, According to Tripadvisor

Here's your sign that it's time to plan a trip to Asia.

Looking for somewhere to go in 2024, but need a little advice on where, exactly, to jet off to next? Just take a gander at Tripadvisor’s 2024 Travelers’ Choice Awards for a little inspiration. 

Tripadvisor released its annual awards, starting with the Best of the Best Destinations , which the website said in a statement highlights “the most sought-after destinations for the year, according to Tripadvisor reviewers.”

The Best of the Best Destinations encompasses seven categories this year, including the Top Destinations , Culture Destinations , Food Destinations , Nature Destinations , Honeymoon Destinations , Sustainable Destinations , and one in particular that caught our eye — Trending Destinations . Specifically, those that made the cut for top trending international spots. 

To find out which destinations were really on the rise, Tripadvisor calculated the winners based on the “quality and quantity of reviews, specific to each award subcategory” that were created by its global traveler user base between Oct. 1, 2022, and Sept. 30, 2023. Specifically, this category, Tripadvisor added, “identifies places that have seen the greatest year-over-year growth in interest” from users.

After parsing through the data, Tokyo came out as its top trending destination for 2024. And, as Tripadvisor noted, Asia as a whole is having a real moment, with eight out of the top 10 trending spots going to destinations on the continent. 

Tokyo is joined on the list by Seoul in the second place spot, followed by Halong Bay, Vietnam in third; Palawan Island, Philippines in fourth; and Sapa, Vietnam rounding out the top five. 

“With 94 percent of Americans planning to travel as much, if not more, than last year, enthusiasm is high, and this year’s list of Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Destinations really reflects that excitement,” Sarah Firshein, the head of editorial at Tripadvisor, said in a statement provided to Travel + Leisure . “Winners like Dubai, Tokyo, Paris, and Marrakech indicate that our community has an unbridled appetite for destinations with vibrant arts-and-culture scenes, top-notch restaurants, and seemingly limitless attractions and experiences. It’s also great to see a rebound on long-haul trips to Asia, with the region having fully opened up post-pandemic; as Tripadvisor’s Trending Destinations list shows, travelers are keen to get out there and explore with gusto.”

Ready to see where else Tripadvisor travelers are psyched to visit in 2024? Check out all of the destinations at tripadvisor.com . 

Related: How a 2-week Trip to Tokyo Changed My Mind About Solo Travel

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10 Best European Beach Destinations to Live In, According to Real Estate Experts

Life's a beach in these small and big cities across the pond.

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For some, Europe's beach towns and cities offer a once-a-year vacation destination; for others, it's where they've chosen to make their home base permanently. And while reasons may vary — some are digital nomads whose profession allows them to work remotely and some are retirees seeking an exciting new place to spend their golden years — the benefits of moving to a beach destination in Europe, where leisurely strolls along sandy stretches are a part of daily life, are many. Most importantly, settling in a seaside community across the pond doesn't have to break the bank , and often, it comes with a much lower price tag than in the U.S.

Below, we rounded up some of the best European beach destinations to live in if you're considering making a move — from bustling resort destinations where you can enjoy more than 300 days of sunshine a year to equally exciting spots that are full of culture and history in colder places for those who don't mind snowy winters and milder summers.

Alicante, Spain

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Known as the gateway to Spain's Costa Blanca, this Mediterranean city offers easy access to some of the country's best beaches, architectural styles that reflect its rich history, and a surprisingly affordable cost of living. 

According to Euronews , you can rent an apartment in the outskirts of Alicante for as low as 600 euros per month. And International Living estimates you need less than $2,000 to cover your daily expenses, and that number includes housing and private health insurance in this city of about 379,000.

Lastly, Alicante is a popular second home destination for many U.K. and northern Europe residents. Plus, it has a large expat community that makes it easy for newcomers to adapt to the new environment.

Málaga, Spain

Last year, InterNations named the southern city of Málaga the best place to live and work in the world for expats (Alicante was second), ranking first in work-life balance and general cost of living, and second in leisure options. 

Málaga, the capital of the Costa del Sol region, dates back more than 2,000 years (in fact, it's one of the oldest cities in the world) and boasts a spectacular historic center, museums, and many beaches. The city, which is also the birthplace of Picasso, has a vibrant art scene and hosts several festivals and cultural events throughout the year.

Valencia, Spain

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With more than 300 sunny days per year and average temperatures that usually don't go above 85 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer or below 65 degrees in the winter, Valencia is an excellent choice for those seeking warm weather. And there's plenty of year-round outdoor recreation in this city of about 840,000, with more than 20 miles of scenic coastline, many parks, cultural and historic monuments, and restaurants (after all, this is the birthplace of paella ). 

While Valencia ranked third overall in InterNations's latest report (it took the top spot in 2022), the city has the best quality of life globally and places first in health care affordability.

Lisbon, Portugal

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The Portuguese capital has surged in popularity among retirees and digital nomads thanks to its sunny weather, fantastic dining scene, rich cultural life, beautiful hilly cityscape, and laid-back lifestyle. Lisbon recently ranked first in a survey of the most affordable monthly rents — a one-bedroom apartment here costs, on average, $1,125.

"But anyone who believes the capital is only an appealing destination for adults is mistaken; little ones also love Lisbon for the diversity of events designed for them and the large parks and green spaces scattered throughout, providing fun moments for all ages," Paulo Lopes, CEO of Casaiberia Real Estate , told Travel + Leisure , adding that Lisbon also stands out as a safe city. According to the Global Peace Index , Portugal is the seventh safest country in the world.

Carvoeiro, Portugal

" The Algarve has gained legitimate notoriety thanks to its relaxed lifestyle. Here, one can enjoy a higher quality of life, as the region offers the best of both worlds — all the conveniences and facilities within short distances, as well as the vibrancy and charisma of large and bustling cities," said Lopes of Portugal's southernmost region, which draws visitors, retirees, and digital nomads with its sun-drenched beaches.

While the coastline is dotted with resort-style towns and villages, Lopes recommends Carvoeiro for its beautiful setting of dramatic cliffs, whitewashed houses with bold red rooftops, and diverse amenities, including top-notch golf courses and excellent restaurants. The town is also known for its spectacular main beach, a swath of golden sand nestled between rugged limestone cliffs.

Nice, France

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Home to an international airport, a world-famous movie festival, and some of the nicest beaches in Europe , Nice is a global hot spot frequented by jet-setters and A-listers. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with museums, parks, charming neighborhoods, and, of course, the 4.3-mile Promenade des Anglais, which runs along the azure waters of Baie des Anges.

"For buying an apartment, I recommend choosing a centrally located area for easy access to all that Nice has to offer. Neighborhoods like the Carré d'Or, Musiciens, the Port, and Wilson are excellent options," said Ulrika Topel, a sales agent at Riviera Keys . "Nice offers a great range of neighborhoods, and other sought-after areas like Cimiez, Mont Boron, or Fabron, while a bit further up on the hills and calmer, offer great living spaces and beautiful sea views."

Split, Croatia

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Croatia's picture-perfect islands , historical attractions, sunny coastline , and affordable lifestyle have made it popular among expats in recent years. Split is the country's second-largest city after the capital of Zagreb, where residents can wander the old town's streets, admire the Adriatic's azure waters, and enjoy its many museums, restaurants, and coffee shops. Split's airport provides regular daily flights to and from some of Europe's largest cities.

Split also has the third cheapest cost of living in Europe, according to a 2023 report , where expats spend, on average, $1,585 per month in expenses.

Antibes, France

"Antibes is a city that thrives year-round, offering a rich array of experiences for all. Unlike the bustling party atmosphere of Cannes, Antibes exudes a more down-to-earth charm," said Anders Pettersson, a broker at Riviera Keys . 

While many associate the resort destination with its bustling summer scene and world-renowned marina, which fills with megayachts in July and August, Antibes is also near Sophia Antipolis, a 2,400-hectare technology community, dubbed the Silicon Valley of Europe, where more than 40,000 employees from 2,500 companies work every day.

"For several years, we've experienced a limited supply of houses and apartments for sale. However, it seems this trend is starting to change, with sellers gradually returning to the market. The pricing landscape remains stable, and compared to many other European cities, it's still possible to get a lot of accommodations for your money per square meter," said Pettersson. 

According to the French real estate website SeLoger, the median price per square meter in Antibes in February 2024 was 6,060 euros (that number is 9,581 euros for Paris and 4,151 euros in Lisbon ).

Stockholm, Sweden

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While the Swedish capital may not be what comes to mind when you think of a beach town, the city was built on 14 islands, many of them with sandy stretches and swimming areas packed with people during the summer months.

Långholmen, a former prison island, is now a go-to outdoor recreation spot for residents, thanks to its small beaches, coves, and picnic areas. Tantobadet in Tantolunden Park is another, particularly beloved by families.

Last year, Stockholm was named one of the best cities in the world for work-life balance . And if you ever get tired of all the beaches in the city, you can explore the larger Stockholm archipelago region, home to a whopping 30,000 islands, islets, and skerries.

Naples, Italy

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Who wouldn't want to live in the birthplace of pizza, which also has some of the most beautiful swaths of sand on the Mediterranean and thousands of years of history and culture? Add to that epic hikes to nearby Mount Vesuvius and leisurely cruises to the Amalfi Coast, and moving to Naples sounds like an excellent idea.

The cost of living and housing here is also significantly lower than in larger cities like Milan and Rome, and this has attracted a lot of expats and retirees .

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