The world's top places to visit in 2024

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Anna Maria Island, USA -

Beach vacation destinations to seek out in 2024 include Anna Maria Island, on Florida's Gulf Coast. Unlike many of the state's tourist brochure beaches, Anna Maria's broad expanse of sand is still very much under the radar. Pine Avenue, the island's main thoroughfare, is lined with affordable shops, galleries, and eateries.

 

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Coastal Campania, Italy -

Italy's delightfully scenic Amalfi Coast falls within the country's Campania region, an area of exceptional beauty blessed with small, out-of-the-way beaches and pastel-colored fishing villages. The traditional picture-book veneer is contrasted by some fabulous boutique hotel properties and a focus on fine Italian food and wine.

 

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Costa Rica -

Costa Rica is another stand-alone country winning plaudits as a destination of choice for 2024. And why not? This rugged, rain-forested Central American nation is renowned for its pristine ecosystems and incredible wildlife. Several new hotels have opened their doors, catering variously to golfers, surfers, and those seeking rest and relaxation in a spa environment.

 

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Dominica -

Not to be confused with the Dominican Republic, the verdant island nation of Dominica is an ocean paradise blanketed with rainforest and textured by cascading waterfalls, hot springs, and golden sand. Its eco-friendly hotels and resorts are the envy of the region.

 

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Hawaii Island -

Also known as Big Island, Hawaii's reputation as a luxury Pacific Ocean getaway was established decades ago. The devastating fires that impacted both Hawaii Island and Maui in 2023 still resonate, but the destination's environmental credentials and cultural clout already have returning visitors booking early for 2024.

 

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Los Cabos, Mexico -

A home from home for many Californians, Los Cabos on the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula has long been a firm favorite for those seeking a dreamy, sun-kissed vacation. This is A-list territory, with the plushest five-diamond hotels catering to Hollywood royalty. Golf is a big deal here, as is game fishing.

 

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Mallorca, Spain -

Back in Europe, 2024 will see Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands, expand its five-star resort and luxury boutique hotel product. While a hugely popular summer holiday destination, it's still possible to get lost on purpose on Mallorca. Its interior is peppered with historic ruins, and the Cultural Landscape of the Serra de Tramuntana is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 

[jw5]

AlUla, Saudi Arabia -

For the truly adventurous, Saudi Arabia conjures up images of remote deserts and ancient civilizations rarely spoken about by those in the West. And while restrictive, this fascinating country is slowly embracing a more ambitious tourism program. AlUla, for example, is an enchanting destination. The resort is set near Hegra, famed for its archaeological wonders, and features a stylish and contemporary hotel and a smaller eco-property.

 

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Bahia, Brazil -

When people think of Bahia, they usually focus on Salvador, the capital city. And while Bahia is a coastal state, it's the interior and especially Chapada Diamantina National Park that attracts those seeking an adventure fix. It's where to go off-grid to connect with Mother Nature.

 

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Northern Pakistan -

Solo travelers to Northern Pakistan trek through this region as experienced and well-seasoned adventurers. For the less initiated, the best way to explore this untamed corner of the planet is by joining a guided tour.

 

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Peru's trekking routes -

Peru's myriad of walking routes take in some of the most spectacular scenery found anywhere in the world. And there's much more to discover beyond the well-trodden Inca Trails and over-Instagrammed Machu Picchu. New for 2024 is an Indigenous-owned company offering high Andes all-women hiking trips that include cooking classes and farm trips.

 

[jw5]

South Australia -

Down under, meanwhile, South Australia is New World wine territory. And while thousands flock to the state's vineyards every year, the recently opened Nilpena Ediacara National Park is providing an exciting diversion for those interested in viewing the oldest fossils on the planet, with some dating back 550 million years.

 

[jw5]

Sri Lanka -

Sri Lanka is also being touted as a singular destination to investigate in 2024. A small island nation anchored in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka entices with a variety of landscapes, anything from beautiful beaches and lush jungle to cloud-tipped mountains and historic, temple-clad cities.