11 Best Places to Visit in 2024

It's that time of the year to start getting pumped about our upcoming adventures in the next year. We've gathered all the insider info on the vacation spots that are set to steal the spotlight in 2024. Picture this – we're all set to dance our way down a South American river, gear up in our parkas for the newest "it" ski destination, and hop on a jet to explore what might just be the next White Lotus.

Whether your vacation dreams are laid-back or luxe, here's a solid piece of advice: Lock in that trip pronto. The beloved European hotspots are already filling up for next summer, everyone's eyeing the same sweet suites (whether on land or at sea), and the spots at these under-the-radar gems on our list are in high demand. Fortunately, you've got your trusty TH travel advisor – the secret sauce to ensure you get to your dream destination the way you've always envisioned. We’re ready and waiting, so let the inspiration flow and kickstart your planning now.

Alright, buckle up!

11 Best Places to Visit in 2024

1. Aspen

Where the Cool Kids Hit the Slopes! Aspen, already a top-tier mountain retreat, is turning up the heat this season with a mega facelift at the Buttermilk Base Area and the debut of Hero's, a swanky 153-acre ski terrain on Aspen Mountain. Hero's isn't just a catchy name – it's a winter wonderland with 1,220 vertical feet of powdery trails that every snow lover dreams of. And guess what? The Michelin Guide has just rolled into Colorado, giving Aspen's food scene an extra sprinkle of stardust. Make sure to swing by the mountaintop AspenX Beach Club for some après-ski fun and hit up the high-end boutiques for a touch of glam. TH Travel Advisors love The Little Nell, a 92-room ski-in/ski-out retreat at the mountain’s base with a newly, renovated spa.

2. Barcelona

As you leisurely stroll through the extensive streets of Barcelona’s Eixample district, savoring tapas and peering into shop windows, it might escape your notice that these broad avenues and their gridded octagonal blocks are the brainchild of urban planner Ildefons Cerdà. He envisioned this layout after the Old City succumbed to nineteenth-century dirt and congestion. Then came Antoni Gaudí, breaking the monotony with his dreamlike structures, including the iconic Casa Batlló and the still-in-progress Sagrada Família, a masterpiece under construction for nearly 150 years.

Fast forward to today, and the once notoriously congested city is now getting a breath of fresh air with a brand-new set of green lungs. A comprehensive urban-rejuvenation plan is waving goodbye to cars on many Eixample thoroughfares, transforming them into tree-lined havens exclusively for pedestrians and cyclists. Parks and playgrounds are popping up, with the ambitious aim of creating 21 green streets and expansive squares by 2030. Some of these revitalized spaces are already completed, making it a breeze for travelers to hop from one charming shop to the next or enjoy a leisurely evening at the bars along the vibrant Carrer del Consell de Cent. It's a Barcelona that's evolving and embracing a greener, more pedestrian-friendly future!

For an unforgettable stay right in the heart of the city, I highly recommend checking in at the newly refurbished Hotel El Palace Barcelona. Boasting 120 rooms, this gem is situated in the bustling city center. What sets it apart? Well, picture this – a sprawling 15,000-square-foot rooftop paradise. It's not just any rooftop; it's a haven hosting a pool, a lush garden, a fantastic restaurant, and even an open-air cinema experience. Trust me; it's one of the most expansive and remarkable rooftop spaces you'll find in Barcelona. The perfect blend of luxury and city vibes awaits you at Hotel El Palace Barcelona.

3. Bonaire

Bonaire, a charming 111-square-mile island nestled in the southern Caribbean next to Aruba and Curaçao, has a unique distinction – there isn't a single stoplight to be found. As you venture beyond the downtown area of Kralendijk, the landscape may appear sparse, but the real magic lies beyond the sandy, palm-lined roadsides.

What makes Bonaire truly special is its reputation as one of the Caribbean's most thrilling spots for diving, surfing, and sailing, thanks to the island's consistent trade winds. However, the island isn't just a haven for water enthusiasts; its culinary scene is rapidly becoming a draw of its own. Picture this: caviar-topped potato salad served in a golden egg at Brass Boer, a top-notch restaurant run by Chef Jonnie Boer from the Netherlands' renowned three-Michelin-starred De Librije. Fancy some Dutch-style homemade bagels? Bagel & Bloom has got you covered.

For a truly unique dining experience, head to the Melisa, a 50-foot yacht-cum-restaurant offering a delectable six-course dinner with fresh lobster, exquisite wine pairings, and a stunning sunset perch. And here's a tip for an unforgettable moment – catch at least one sunset at King's Beach, where you can pay homage to the island's resident flamingo population with a refreshing Flamingo gin and tonic from Ocean Oasis. Bonaire is not just an island; it's a captivating blend of adventure, culinary delights, and breathtaking views.

4. The Luberon

Take your Paris escape up a notch by tossing in a few extra days to check out this cool spot in the French countryside. The Luberon is this massive 230-square-mile area in Provence, just a couple of hours inland from the Mediterranean. It's like the perfect chill contrast (and an easy add-on adventure) to the hustle and bustle of Paris. Picture rolling landscapes dotted with poppy fields, old-school vineyards, wild forests, and hills with traces of played-out ocher mines that basically built the place with all that terracotta-colored clay.

5. Costa Rica

Costa Rica is like a nature lover's dream, boasting a whopping 25 percent of the country covered by national parks. And here's the cool part – it's not just about the parks; Costa Rica is flexing its muscles in biodiversity and has this fantastic vibe of being all about sustainable tourism.

Now, in 2024, Costa Rica is turning up the adventure dial for those seeking an even more epic experience. The new itineraries are all about living the good life, with fancy hotels and experiences that'll make you feel on top of the world. Imagine chilling in hot springs with the Arenal volcano in the background or enjoying some glam camping vibes in the scenic Talamanca Mountains. ADDED bonus: Lots of nonstop flights from multiple parts of the US.

TH Traveler Designers recommend a split stay for clients who want to experience the best of both worlds; coastal and rainforest.

6. London

London's hotel game has always been on point, filled with historic gems like The Goring and Brown's that practically ooze history. But hey, there's some new blood in town, and it's taking the whole scene up a notch. The star of the show? The swanky Raffles London at The OWO, a 120-room stunner that could easily be a set for a James Bond film (seriously, more than one 007 scene was shot there). And get this – it's chilling in Winston Churchill's old World War II headquarters.

Then you've got the slick Peninsula London, a brand-new 190-room spot popping up next to Hyde Park in Belgravia. Not too far away is the Emory, a 61-room escape that's all about quiet luxury, brought to you by the same crew behind the royal-favorite, Claridge's. These cool stays, paired with the National Portrait Gallery reopening, The National Gallery hitting its bicentennial, and the buzz around the upcoming AI-driven Museum of Shakespeare, make London an absolute must-visit.

Raffles London at The OWO just dropped this fall in the Whitehall neighborhood. And get this: it's got nine restaurants serving up the goods, three bars (one of them chilling in the old spy interrogation room from the Old War Office), and even a Guerlain spa. Talk about boujee vibes!

7. Phuket

By now, we all have heard of White Lotus. Well, it's like the ultimate travel influencer. First, Maui got its moment, then Sicily, all thanks to the on-screen shenanigans of the series' jet-setting characters. Now, rumor has it the crew is rolling into Phuket for the third season, set to drop sometime in late 2024. Cue the real-world travel craze! The producers are keeping hush-hush on the filming location, but word on the internet street is it might be the swanky Amanpuri or maybe Trisara with its temple-like villas and private infinity pools. Either way, Phuket days mean jungle treks, long-tail boat adventures in hush-hush bays, and chill vibes with fresh coconuts under swaying palm trees. And for the ultimate serenity, hop over to nearby Koh Yao Yai, where it's all about lounging on powder-white beaches, road-side water buffalo sightings, and soaking in the views at the new Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas.

After a solid three-month makeover, Amanpuri's 84 villas are basically these little Thai havens of beachside perfection. Picture this: tranquil vibes amped up with a hilltop izakaya designed by Kengo Kuma and a Spa House that's basically a hydrotherapy haven, complete with an alfresco Jacuzzi lounge. It's like they cranked the chill factor up to eleven!

8. Riviera Nayarit

Touching down in Riviera Nayarit just got a whole lot easier, thanks to the revamped Riviera Nayarit International Airport (also known as Tepic). Forget the chaos at Puerto Vallarta airport; this upgraded hub is ready to welcome travelers from new gateways and those aiming to catch a glimpse of next April's solar eclipse. The hotel scene in the region is already top-notch, but brace yourself for even more luxury in the coming years, with big names in the industry unveiling exciting projects.

Beyond the pristine beaches that attract sunseekers, Riviera Nayarit has become a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The state's commitment to conservation, strict construction regulations, seven natural reserves, and partnerships with animal protection groups create an ecosystem where whale-watching boats come with dolphin escorts, sunbathers share the sand with sea turtles, and over 250 bird species await eagle-eyed spotters.

TH Advisors recommend staying at One&Only Mandarina. You'll find 105 secluded villas, tree houses, and private homes, each boasting their own plunge pools and dedicated hosts. The property's on-site experts are there to lead guests through the remarkable flora, fauna, and fascinating archaeological discoveries. It's not just a stay; it's an immersive journey into nature and luxury.

9. Zambia

Zambia, often overlooked in favor of its more touristy neighbors, has quietly transformed into a prime adventure destination on the African continent. Prioritizing safety and conservation, Zambia invites you to immerse yourself in its natural wonders, from swimming beside the powerful Victoria Falls to embarking on foot safaris in South Luangwa National Park – the birthplace of walking safaris.

Significant investments, totaling around $360 million, have fueled major infrastructure projects across the country, with a notable expansion at Lusaka’s Kenneth Kaunda International Airport. This expansion, tripling annual passenger capacity from 2 to 6 million, enhances global connectivity, marked by the inaugural direct flight between the capital and Cape Town. A noteworthy achievement is Zambia's 20-year partnership with the conservation nonprofit African Parks. This collaboration not only improves visitor access to Kafue National Park through upgraded infrastructure but also fortifies wildlife conservation and rescue efforts.

For travelers, this translates to a richer safari experience with more encounters with majestic lions, elephants, and antelopes on their next visit. Zambia is truly stepping into the spotlight for adventure seekers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

10. Todos Santos

Don’t call it the next Cabo! It’s one of it’s own kind of style. Venture just north of Cabo San Lucas, and you'll stumble upon Todos Santos, a haven for artists and surfers graced with white-sand beaches and impressive offshore swells. With its modest population, this enclave maintains an untouched allure, providing visitors with a sense of discovery away from the crowds found in more touristy Mexican destinations.The town's enchanting ambiance is characterized by a slower, more community-centered pace. A must on your itinerary is exploring the thriving local art scene, gallery-hopping amid pastel-colored colonial buildings in the town center. For a change of scenery, head to the mountains, where activities like hiking, biking, and horseback riding await. But, don't forget to reserve a day or two for aquatic adventures. Cerritos Beach, in close proximity, offers ideal waves for novice surfers year-round, while seasoned pros can tackle challenging breaks along the coast. In Todos Santos, the blend of art, community, and coastal charm creates an unforgettable escape from the ordinary.

11. Paros, Greece

Picture classic whitewashed buildings, serene bougainvillea-draped lanes, and tranquil-fringed beaches – that's Páros, a hidden gem in the Cyclades that rivals the allure of Mykonos or Santorini but without the overwhelming crowds. Jack Ezon, a Virtuoso travel agency executive, attests, "Páros feels local, with an energetic town, amazing food, and fabulous outdoor activity. I was surprised at how chic and vibrant it is, without being too touristy."

Whether you hop on a plane or ferry from Athens or enjoy an hour's ferry ride from Mykonos, Páros has an abundance of activities waiting for you. Explore the lively port town of Parikia, unwind at Monastiri and Aliki beaches, or immerse yourself in the charm of tavernas and churches in the inland village of Lefkes. For a laid-back yet glamorous experience, head to Naoussa, a traditional fishing village boasting restaurants, beach clubs, and boutiques. Some of Ezon's recommended spots include Mario Restaurant for fresh seafood, the Moraitis Winery for rosé, and Barbarossa for its sushi and A-list scene. Páros invites you to discover its chic and vibrant essence, promising a memorable escape.

In a nutshell, diving into the highlights of upcoming travel destinations for 2024 has been nothing short of exciting. From the powdery trails of Aspen to the rejuvenated streets of Barcelona, the serene beaches of Bonaire to the artistic haven of Todos Santos, each place we've explored brings a unique blend of adventure and luxury. Costa Rica champions sustainable tourism, while London introduces new players in its historic hotel scene. Phuket promises a White Lotus-inspired journey, Zambia emerges as an African adventure gem, and Riviera Nayarit in Mexico welcomes travelers with revamped luxury. Páros in the Cyclades wraps up our journey, offering a chic and vibrant escape. As we gear up for 2024, these destinations, featuring world-class experiences and open-air allure, set the stage for a year filled with unforgettable travel escapades. So, fasten your seatbelt and get ready to explore the best the world has to offer!

If you need to keep things simple this year, we get that too. You might want to consider some our favorite beach destinations. Check out this blogpost for a few ideas!

And don’t forget to reach out to your favorite TH Travel Designer to help match you to the perfect destination and dream vacation.