Where should you travel in 2024?
Now that travel has opened up across the globe, there’s an endless list of destinations waiting for you to explore! The challenge of so many options is determining which ones are worth your vacation days as well as your vacation dollars.
Here are my recommendations to get you started in the new year:
Couples
Iceland
Iceland is truly a wonderland, with hot springs, waterfalls, and ice caves to name a few. The Land of Fire and Ice is the perfect active vacation. I’ve had clients tour Iceland on self-drive trips, small group escorted tours, and cruises. I can help you determine the best way for you to see this incredible destination.
Antigua has some really unique, amazing resorts. The flights are slightly longer than Mexico or Punta Cana, so you’ll want at least 5 nights for your trip, but this destination is so worth it! The gorgeous beaches and 5-star hotels will transport you to a place of beauty, and you’ll leave feeling refreshed and recharged.
Lucerne
What makes Switzerland so special for couples? The natural beauty, the picturesque towns and cities, and the historical sites just to name a few. You can take a cogwheel train up the Alps, with Swiss cowbells as your musical background. If you’re interested in cycling or hiking, there are so many opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors with breathtaking backdrops. And with Germany, France, and Italy so close, it’s easy to work one or two other countries into your itinerary.
So many adults I talk to have river cruises on their wish list - so isn’t it time to finally book that river cruise? The itineraries are amazing, and most river cruise rates are all-inclusive, so your food, drinks, excursions, and even gratuities are already covered. With itineraries from the Danube to the Duoro, you can go almost anywhere. And your embarkation and debarkation cities make it so easy to extend your trip with a few days in Paris or Rome or wherever your cruise sails.
Families
Costa Rica
Costa Rica had stringent requirements during the pandemic, but those are no longer an issue. This is a great family destination if you’re traveling with school-age kids or older, because there is so much to keep everyone entertained and active. Whether you want to rappel down a waterfall, go zip-lining or rafting, see lemurs in their natural habitats, or relax on the beach, Costa Rica will help create amazing vacation memories for your family.
I always contend that a cruise is the most relaxing vacation for parents, because meals, entertainment, and activities are oh, so easy! And with exciting kids’ programs, parents can actually take some time for themselves in adults-only areas. Go-carts, surfing, and ice skating are just a few of what’s offered on the high seas, and the fact that a cruise is all-inclusive makes it great for a family trip. Vacations by Shannon can help you determine the right cruise line and itinerary based on the ages of your kids and what you are most interested in doing.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
If you haven’t been to Disney World in the last few years, there’s so much new to see and do! The TRON coaster opens in Tomorrowland this spring, and it promises to be an amazing new addition to the Magic Kingdom. Other recent attractions include Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure and Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway. With new perks for guests staying at DIsney resorts, it’s a great time to visit the Happiest Place on Earth!
Honeymoons
Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen
Secrets Moxché opened in Playa del Carmen in 2022, and it’s quickly claimed a top spot when it comes to luxury adults-only, all-inclusive resorts. With amazing pools, tempting restaurants, and a gorgeous beach, Secrets Moxché is the perfect spot for a romantic honeymoon. And just last month, Secrets Impressions Moxché opened, offering guests even more pampering during their stay.
Santorini
Greece is another great choice for a honeymoon. The blue waters and white structures make an incredible background for you to spend the first weeks of your marriage. The food is really incredible, and there are so many great hotels with amazing views. There’s plenty to do if you’d like to make memories touring historic structures, enjoying a sunset cruise, or taking a cooking class.
Two other great Caribbean destinations are Punta Cana and St. Lucia. The gorgeous beaches and incredible resort options make it another top honeymoon choice. Whatever your price point, I can help you find the hotel that is the best fit.
Multi-generational Travel
Private After-Hours Tour of the Vatican Museum