As destinations across the world reopen to travel, avid travelers everywhere are gearing up to make up for lost time. While certain kinds of trips will always be popular (beach vacation, anyone?), the last year’s restrictions have inspired getaways prompted by new priorities and interests. To help you get inspired, we’ve rounded up a few ideas to add to your bucket list for 2021.
National Parks Trip
After a year of mostly being cooped up inside, travelers are craving true connection with the natural world. Nothing does the trick quite like a trip to an unspoiled natural park promising fresh air and astounding scenery. Lucky for savvy travelers, the world is brimming with unique spots perfect for unwinding and enjoying the earth’s vast splendor. From the American West to Europe, there’s a bevy of protected areas open for all to enjoy.
Calanques National Park
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Take in awe-inspiring scenery along the Mediterranean coast of France at Calanques National Park near the port city of Marseille. This series of dramatic inlets, which extend over 200 square miles of ocean, is best viewed by boat. As you cruise along the coast, you’ll tuck into tiny harbors with iridescent waters and rocky shores seemingly untouched by humans. Take a moment to sunbathe or picnic on the pebbly shore, or venture deeper into the park for an afternoon hike. Once you’ve returned from your sojourn, check in at the Sofitel Marseille Vieux Port, a sophisticated property offering marvelous views of the Old Port.
Nearest airport: Marseille Provence Airport
Ultimate Beach Escape
Eliminating stress from your life is easy when you have the sun on your skin, a cold drink in your hand, and the soothing sound of waves beyond. Beach escapes are revered for their power to elevate the mood, which is why they prove popular year after year. If you missed out on your tropical getaway due to the travel restrictions in the past year, a splurge on a beachfront bucket list experience is most definitely in order. Immerse yourself in the beauty of coastlines around the world, which are increasingly ready to host visitors from abroad.
Harbour Island, Bahamas
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Get your fix of sun and sand on Harbour Island in the Bahamas, famous for its alluring pink sands and far-as-the-eye-can-see turquoise water. Days are low-key here — most visitors spend their time snorkeling, sunbathing, or cruising the island in a golf cart.
A small commercial district near the dock is home to a quaint collection of ocean-view eateries, galleries, and shops. After a morning exploring the village, spend the afternoon splashing at Pink Sands Beach, a heavenly hideaway with a rosy shoreline you won’t forget anytime soon.
Once you’re tuckered out, rest your head at Valentines Residences, Resort & Marina, whose suites blend modern amenities with tasteful island design. Wake up early the next morning to take a dip in the hotel’s pool or lay out on Balinese-style sun loungers.
Nearest airport: North Eleuthera Airport
Heart-Pounding Ski Trip
Avid skiers around the world are dusting off their gear and getting ready to make the coming ski season one to remember. After a tough couple of winters, it would be a dream to hit the slopes again in renowned ski resorts areas around the world, from Aspen and Zermatt to Val d’Isere and Chamonix. Get ready for thrilling days in the mountains and serene evenings around a crackling fireplace.
Vail, Colorado
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No travel bucket list is complete with a winter getaway to Vail, Colorado, whose charming village sports distinct European vibes. You’ll find a delightful array of upscale shops and eateries to explore here, for those times when you’re not zooming down the slopes of Vail Mountain.
Get a table at Vin 48, a cozy wine bar with laid-back vibes, or awaken your palate with New American cuisine from Sweet Basil. After a long day on your feet, nothing feels quite as good as settling into The Ritz-Carlton Club, whose exterior brings to mind a Bavarian palace.
Residences here boast marble baths, flat-screen TVs, walk-in closets, and fully equipped kitchens with granite countertops, among other amenities. When your body is feeling worse for wear, head to the steam rooms in the gym and decompress for a while.
Nearest airport: Eagle County Regional Airport
Retail Therapy Vacation
Though shopping online has it perks, there’s nothing like the thrill of entering your favorite high-end boutique and spending hours perusing the goods. Now that shopping in-person is an option again, a trip to indulge in some retail therapy is more appealing than ever. Dust off your credit card with the highest limit and prepare to load up on luxury goods that will get you through what promises to be a fun summer.
Milan, Italy
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Home to the Fashion Quadrilateral commercial district, Milan is the prime spot for shopping in Europe. Brands like Balenciaga, Tiffany & Co, Givenchy, and Chanel have set up shop here, alongside high-end restaurants and cafes.
Before you start your browsing session, get some style inspiration at Museo Bagatti Valsecchi, a decorative arts museum filled with beautiful furniture, painting, and sculptures. The Palazzo Morando, housing a fascinating collection dedicated to fashion, is likewise a great place to familiarize yourself with Milanese style.
Once you’ve accumulated more bags than you can carry, get a room at Bulgari Hotel, complete with a 4,000-square-meter private garden and an elegant spa offering hydro-massage and a range of personalized treatments.
Nearest airport: Milan Linate Airport
Family Get-Together
It goes without saying that family get-togethers should be on your travel bucket list. Catch up with all the missed celebrations and milestones with your loved ones, near and far. Whether it’s a summer camping trip or a city break filled with excitement, there’s no wrong way to strengthen the bonds with the most important people in your life.
Paros, Greece
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Paros, Greece makes an incomparable setting for gatherings with large groups. This island in the Aegean Sea gives you all the awe-inspiring ocean views, delicious meals, and perfect sunsets you could dream of. Wake up early in the morning to explore local villages and pristine cove beaches carved into the coastline. Rent a motorbike and hit the winding roads to discover attractions like the ancient marble quarry at Marathi or the Katafigio Agries Zois of Agioi Pantes-Stroumpoula, a wildlife refuge park.
No matter how you plan to spend your days, remember to leave plenty of time for carefree relaxation at a BlueVillas property, such as Ocyrhoe II, part of a three-property estate that can accommodation up to 18 guests. Take a dip in the semi-private infinity pool or hang out on the pergola-shaded lounge, perfect for a languorous family meal.
Nearest airport: New Paros Airport
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