In the midst of winter’s icy embrace, when daylight retreats and the world seems draped in a monochrome palette, there emerges a beacon of hope—the promise of transformative journeys that reignite the flickering flame of wanderlust within us. As the cold winds howl and darkness prevails, there’s an undeniable yearning for an escape, a retreat that transcends the ordinary and infuses our souls with the warmth of adventure. 

In a world that has weathered storms both metaphorical and literal, the time has come to chart a course toward a brighter horizon—one adorned with the promise of discovery, joy, and the pulsating beat of rejuvenation. As the calendar pages turn and the grip of winter tightens, we invite you to defy the seasonal doldrums and embark on a journey that not only transcends geographical boundaries but also elevates your mental state. Here are 7 awe-inspiring travel itineraries to book in 2024.

FAR-FLUNG OCEAN WILDERNESS – ISLAS SECAS

Islas Secas, off Panama’s Pacific Coast, is Central America’s hidden gem for adventurous travellers. This exclusive archipelago boasts four Casita sites and three Tented Casitas, accommodating just 24 guests on one of its 14 islands. With 20 miles of vibrant Gulf of Chiriquí waters, Islas Secas forms an untouched marine playground, home to diverse wildlife, coral reefs, and marine parks. Casita Grande, the largest hideaway, offers a bohemian vibe with private tropical gardens, a plunge pool, and ocean views. The Spa at Islas Secas embraces the archipelago’s natural beauty for a holistic experience, set in lush jungle foliage. The resort is an ideal base for marine safaris, yoga retreats, and immersive experiences, including snorkelling and diving in the Gulf, and exploring UNESCO-listed Coiba National Park. For an extraordinary adventure, witness the Humpback Whale migration with boat trips available for an up-close encounter with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Islas Secas invites you to discover the raw beauty of Panama in ultimate luxury.

DIVE INTO LA DOLCE VITA – BORGO SANTANDREA

Perched above Conca dei Marini, the renowned summer retreat of Jackie Kennedy, Borgo Santandrea is a mid-century designed hotel co-owned by the Orlacchio and De Siano families. Recently renovated to showcase mid-century design and local Amalfi and Campania craftsmanship, the hotel boasts multiple terraces, its private beach, and the chic Marinella Beach Club. With three restaurants, including the Michelin-starred Alici, and two spacious bars, Borgo Santandrea offers a taste of La Dolce Vita through phenomenal Italian cuisine. The hotel provides James Bond-style transfers from Naples airport via a private speedboat, and private boat tours to Amalfi, Capri, and Positano. Suites feature expansive terraces with some offering private plunge pools and automatic blinds unveiling panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Executive Chef Crescenzo Scotti oversees the Marinella Beach Club’s beachside menu, showcasing the best local ingredients and offering moonlit evenings by the sea with classic Italian dishes and Neapolitan street food bites, including blue lobster paccheri pasta and traditional Neapolitan pizzas.

QUEEN OF THE CARIBBEAN – JUMBY BAY ISLAND

Nestled in the pristine nation of Antigua and Barbuda, Jumby Bay is a 300-acre private island accessible only by boat. With three exquisite white-sand beaches and winding bicycle paths, it stands as the Caribbean’s finest and most exclusive resort. The iconic destination has welcomed Hollywood stars like Lionel Messi, Sir Paul McCartney, and Justin Bieber. Featuring 28 nautical-fresh suites and 12 new Ocean View Suites, the resort spans 300 secluded acres with 4.5 miles of pristine shoreline. Jumby Bay offers a premium all-inclusive experience, inviting guests to shed their cares in a tropical paradise. Whether opting for relaxation or adventure, visitors can indulge in world-class sailing at the Jumby Bay Sailing Academy or unwind at the spa, blending modern therapeutic practices with West Indian traditions.

A TASTE OF TIMELESS ITALY – VILLA SOLA CABIATI

Nestled on the serene shores of Lake Como in Italy, Villa Sola Cabiati emerges as a timeless masterpiece, encapsulating the essence of opulence and history. This magnificent estate, steeped in aristocratic allure, dates back to the 16th century and boasts unparalleled views of the lake and surrounding mountains. A meticulously preserved architectural gem, Villa Sola Cabiati enchants guests with its splendid frescoes, antique furnishings, and immaculate gardens. Once a retreat for Italian nobility, the villa now welcomes discerning travellers seeking an immersive experience in refined luxury. With sumptuous suites, a private boat dock, and exclusive access to the adjacent Grand Hotel Tremezzo’s amenities, Villa Sola Cabiati offers an unrivalled blend of historic grandeur and contemporary indulgence, inviting guests to step back in time while savouring the epitome of Italian sophistication.

THE LUXURY ECO HAVEN – SIX SENSES LA SAGESSE

Welcome to Six Senses La Sagesse, a haven of sustainable luxury gracing the shores of La Sagesse Bay in Grenada. This latest jewel in the esteemed Six Senses portfolio represents a pinnacle of eco-conscious hospitality, effortlessly merging opulence with a profound commitment to environmental stewardship. The resort introduces guests to a world where panoramic ocean-view villas, wellness experiences overlooking the turquoise expanse of the Caribbean, and exquisite farm-to-table dining converge to create a harmonious escape. Each element of Six Senses La Sagesse reflects a meticulous dedication to providing an immersive experience where luxury seamlessly intertwines with the natural beauty of the surroundings. As the newest resort in the Six Senses family, La Sagesse is not just a destination; it’s a commitment to sustainability, leaving an indelible positive impact on both its discerning guests and the pristine environment it calls home. Traverse the allure of this Caribbean gem, where every stay is a testament to the brand’s ethos—luxury that not only indulges but also respects and preserves the wonders of the earth.

WHERE GODDESSES RECHARGE – ONE&ONLY KEA ISLAND

Prepare to be captivated by the allure of One&Only Kéa Island—a testament to unparalleled luxury in the heart of the Cyclades. As the newest jewel in the crown of One&Only that opens this Spring, this island retreat stands as an ode to lavish living with a commitment to redefining hospitality. A collection of chic villas with sweeping views, bespoke wellness experiences immersed in nature’s embrace, and a culinary journey celebrating the island’s bounty beckons travellers to an immersive escape where each element harmoniously blends opulence and authenticity. More than a mere destination, One&Only Kéa Island represents a lifestyle—an extraordinary promise to leave an enduring positive impact on both guests and the unspoiled beauty of Kéa Island. Immerse yourself in the distinct charm of this exclusive enclave, where luxury unfolds as a celebration of the island’s natural wonders.

A GREAT ESCAPE – THE PENINSULA BEIJING

As part of The Peninsula Hotels’ commitment to showcasing the best of its surroundings, The Peninsula Beijing offers an exclusive tour to one of the world’s most iconic sites—the Great Wall of China. Embark on a unique journey starting with a luxury transfer to the Juyongguan Pass, nestled in a picturesque valley with towering mountains. Guided by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll ascend a captivating section of the Great Wall, absorbing stories and historical insights while enjoying breathtaking vistas. After navigating the undulating stairways, a curated picnic awaits at a carefully chosen spot, featuring an array of international dishes. From this elevated vantage point, soak in the true majesty and historical significance of this Wonder of the World before returning to the hotel. Priced at £530 per person, this 6-hour Great Wall of China experience is based on a minimum of five people sharing. It offers a rare opportunity to not only visit but also dine atop this remarkable structure, creating lasting memories of one of China’s most iconic landmarks.