Turn The 2022 Vacation Mode On : 20 Best Summer Holiday Destinations In The World
From far-flung destinations to hometown favorites, 2022 is the year to get back out there and turn your dream trips into reality.
The first thing that strikes one’s mind on hearing the word “summer” is that of vacations. As exciting as it may sound, selecting the best summer holiday destinations in the world for a perfect vacation, is a tedious task in itself. That is why we’ve done the homework for you and collated the best of top summer holiday destinations which will turn your international trip into an epic experience. From budget to luxurious places, you will find several options to choose from. We have covered it all – North, South, East & West. Each and every destination on the list is unique in its entirety, and fill you with excitement. So, if you want to spend one of the best summer vacations in the world, then let the scrolling begin!
1. Lanai, Hawaii
Overtourism in Hawaii has been a hot-button issue in recent years (even more so in 2021 after the idyllic state experienced a major boom in travelers once its borders reopened), and one that was brilliantly satirized in HBO's The White Lotus. So then, how can travelers do Hawaii with a conscience? First, don't add to the strain on Maui and head to a much more remote island Lanai. Back in 2012, Oracle billionaire Larry Ellison bought 98% of the island for $300 million with the ambition to turn it into an exclusive destination. He then spent another $450 million on the Four Seasons Lanai, filling it with museum-quality art and outposts of Malibu Farm and Nobu, along with all the requisite amenities of a 5-star oceanfront resort. Then head inland to the Four Seasons' sister property, the Sensei Lanai, a 24-acre oasis of tropical flora and verdant hills where the wellness-focused itinerary may include horseback riding, meditation, forest bathing, a thermal body mapping and sleep analysis, and deep soaks in Japanese onsen tubs, with all food courtesy of Nobu.
2. Malta
Members of the new pot elite, rejoice. Malta just became the first country in the European Union to legalize marijuana. Not so into the cannabis? As a picturesque archipelago that has served as a filming location for a number of period epics, from Gladiator and Troy, to Munich and Murder on the Orient Express, Malta hardly wants for scenic sights (and FOMO-inducing Instagram backdrops). And having long ago suffered through a succession of invasions—by the Phoenicians, Romans, Moors, Normans, the Kingdom of Aragon, the French, and the British—the Mediterranean country has a panoply of rich history, culture, and architecture. Stay at the Xara Palace, a former 17th-century palazzo that is now a Relais & Chateaux and the only hotel located in Mdina, the medieval walled city that used to be the island's capital (until 1530) and served as the center of Maltese nobility.
3. Scotland
Queen Elizabeth celebrates her platinum jubilee in 2022, and while that may be reason enough to go to London to witness all of the official celebrations that will swirl around Buckingham Palace in June, how about paying tribute to the UK's longest reigning monarch with a pilgrimage through her beloved Scotland? It's not hard to see why she retreats to the Highlands every summer to rest at Balmoral Castle, said to be her favorite palace. But first, start in the capital city Edinburgh to marvel at its eclectic mix of medieval and Georgian architecture and then check into the Balmoral, a Rocco Forte hotel (not to be confused with the queen's pad), for a night or two of 5-star pampering and Michelin-starred dining. Then it's up to the Scottish Highlands and the town of Braemar, which neighbors the queen's Balmoral, to stay at the Fife Arms, a former Victorian-era coaching inn that was completely transformed by art world power couple Iwan and Manuela Wirth into an absolute jewel box of a property bursting with more than 16,000 works of art. Not so confident about driving on the other side of the road? Enter: the Royal Scotsman, a Belmond Train that is quite possibly the most luxuriously appointed way to take in the stunning countryside.
4. Madrid, Spain
As far as European cities go, it's hard to beat the many charms of Madrid. The Spanish capital has it all: beautiful old-world architecture, blue chip museums, amazing food, lovely parks and gardens, great shopping, a wonderful locals' vibe, and royal clout. Just as the iconic Ritz near El Retiro Park was recently converted to a Mandarin Oriental property, so too has Villa Magna, another aging grande dame in need of a refresh, courtesy of Rosewood—in October it officially reopened as the Rosewood Villa Magna. Located in the tony Salamanca neighborhood, the hotel has 154 accommodations, all designed to evoke the feel of a contemporary Spanish villa, and a signature restaurant helmed by Michelin-starred chef Jesús Sánchez.
5. Ireland
There are numerous compelling reasons to visit Ireland, whether you're a history buff, love literature (it is the home of William Butler Yeats, James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, and Sally Rooney after all), or are simply outdoorsy and a golf fanatic. But regardless of your interests, the island is temperate nearly all of the year—and offers unforgettable experiences from scenic drives up the coast, to picturesque national parks, and even unique opportunities to watch the Winter Solstice. However, one cannot miss trip is Adare Manor, just outside of Limerick.
The Neo-Gothic manor was once home to the Earls of Dunraven, but these days, the historic castle is a 5-star luxury resort, surrounded by charming medieval ruins, winding gardens and woodland paths that you could lose yourself on—in the best way possible. Not only are the guest rooms lavishly decorated and fitted with Georgian-era furnishings, but the resort offers a wide range of activities from falconry and golf to clay shooting and fishing.
6. Bermuda
For years, travelers have flocked to the tiny island of Bermuda, and it's no wonder why. The pristine beaches are known the world over for their soft pink sand, and what's more, travel to the escape is a breeze—just a 90-minute flight from New York City. And two new hotels on the island offer the height of luxury. First, there is the St. Regis Bermuda, which opened its doors to vacationers in the summer of 2021 and is located on a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can expect a hybrid of avant-garde design with local flare as well as sophisticated touches that are the hallmark of the St. Regis brand. Also on the world-class property? A golf course, a state-of-the-art spa, and a designated children's club for families who visit.
Also new to the island is the luxury boutique hotel the Loren at Pink Beach, which is located on Tucker's Point. With just 45 rooms complete with panoramic views and a Sisley Spa, it's the perfect beachside hideaway when you want to really disappear into the sun and sand.
7. Geneva, Switzerland
On the western edge of Switzerland, surrounded by the Alps, is the serene cobblestone city of Geneva, whose views on Mont Blanc alone are worthy of a visit. While the cosmopolitan area is both home to the European headquarters of the United Nations and the Red Cross, the international financial hub makes for a great slow-paced getaway, or dare we say it, a fantastic breather while on a business trip.
First, on your list should visit is the Oetker Collection's latest jewel, the Woodward. Originally built in 1901, the property has been reimagined by Pierre Yves Rochon and boasts two restaurants, the Michelin-starred L'Atelier Robuchon and Le Jardin, a spa appointed by Guerlain, and breathtaking views. There's a reason why they're calling it the lakeside home of haute living.
8. Nambiti, South Africa
While travel to Southern Africa is currently off limits due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, a safari in South Africa remains bucket list worthy—just don't book the trip without double-checking travel advisories.
What's worth the wait? The Homestead—the Nambiti Game Reserve's soon-to-be-opened luxury safari in one of the most widely biodiverse regions in all of Africa. The Homestead's bespoke safari experiences are also created to hold conservation and sustainability at the highest importance, as made evident by the twelve suites "super luxury" eco-lodge accommodations which are entirely solar-powered. Menus are designed by world-renowned chefs, and the food is made with local ingredients—all with the hope of both a positive impact on the planet and those who visit.
9. Lake Como, Italy
It should come as no surprise that year after year, the glitterati heads out to the glamorous region in Northern Italy (which also recently made appearances in The Morning Show, Succession, and House of Gucci). Between exploring the remnants of medieval villages, the opulent villas, and of course, the gorgeous lake, it's no wonder that the locale never goes out of style.
Summer is when the region really shines, and 2022 is the perfect opportunity to make an occasion of it at Villa Passalacqua. Originally built in the 18th century by Count Andrea Lucini Passalacqua (both Napoleon Bonaparte and Winston Churchill were known to visit), the stately mansion is the sister property to Grand Hotel Tremezzo, and offers only the best of luxury. Think: 24 suites designed by Paolo, Antonella, and Valentina De Santis, but with a preservation of the original structure in mind. Villa Passalacqua also offers swimming in the lake, an open-air gym in the olive grove, vintage boat trips from a private dock, farm-to-fork dining and gorgeous manicured gardens.
10. Las Vegas, Nevada
What happens in Vegas? Well, that depends on what your interests are. With best-in-class offerings across the board when it comes to dining, shopping, and accommodations, you have to go out of your way to have a disappointing time in the infamous city. For starters, Adele announced her Vegas residency starting in 2022—all the more reason to plan a trip. And if you really want to lean into the Las Vegas experience, book yourself at the Cosmopolitan, smack dab in the lap of luxury and heart of the strip. The hotel has a wide range of cant-be-beat restaurants to choose from including Momofuku, Scarpetta, and Blue Ribbon, as well as expansive rooms and suites designed with a contemporary infusion so there's a calm refuge from whatever hijinks may unfold.
Another great option? The European-inspired Bellagio Hotel and Casino, which offers fine dining options such as Le Cirque and the Mayfair Supper Club, and of course is situated near some of the best luxury shopping the world has to offer.
11. Palm Beach, Florida
One could argue that Palm Beach is to Eastern Florida, as Cannes is the Riviera. It's been the vacation home and haunt of Swans—with a capital S— for the better part of a hundred years. And with the recent infusion of New York hotspots such as Le Bilboquet and La Goulue in the last few years, it almost feels as though NYC has been transported to the sandy palm beaches.
Known for it's low-key ambiance and relaxed luxury, The Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa is the perfect place to hit pause. Not only is the property a hop, skip, and a jump from the go-to performing arts venues, but the neighboring area is replete with fantastic shopping and dining should you need a pause from the hotel's five-star spa and seven-acre private beach. It's the kind of place that once you visit, you can't help but make a plan to dash back for more.
12. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Undoubtedly one of the most unique cities in the U.S., Santa Fe has rich Native American history, strong Spanish influences, and a vibrant arts scene, from the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum to Canyon Road, a stretch of art galleries featuring a diverse selection (think: Fernando Botero sculptures, handwoven Navajo rugs). Then, there is Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu (an hour's drive from Santa Fe), a 21,000-acre retreat that so impressed O'Keeffe, she lived there for forty years and prominently featured its landscapes in her work. A trip to the city is worth it alone just to check out its hottest new hotel, Bishop's Lodge, a legendary 150-year-old landmark that Auberge Resorts restored into a luxurious property sitting on 317 acres bordering the Santa Fe National Forest. It beautifully pays homage to the city's Southwestern heritage with activities like sunrise horseback riding and guided pueblo tours.
13. Maldives
This nation of more than a thousand tiny islands contains a water world to satisfy the tropical fantasies of surfers, scuba divers, beach lovers and honeymooners. For an extended summer vacation that is truly far-flung—with five-star service and amenities—escape to one of the many luxurious overwater bungalows and beachfront villas available at properties like One&Only Reethi Rah. The biggest island resort in the Maldives and arguably its most indulgent, this One&Only property has been raising the bar for celebrities and loyal repeaters every year since it opened in 2005. A Rolls-Royce of a beach hotel, Reethi Rah offers 109 acres and has six kilometers of white-sand coastline and a lush, tropical interior. Guests are whisked through tunnels of tropical greenery on golf carts to their private villas, where butlers manage their stay. Amongst the 130 villas are 32 overwater villas and a variety of beach villas. Plus: The state-of-the-art Marine Center has a resident marine biologist as well as scuba instructors and cruises to see sharks, whales, dolphins and manta rays—and there are seven restaurants on the island.
14. French Riviera
For a dose of sun, sea and glamour, few destinations deliver like the French Riviera. Here, most travelers will prefer to pick an over-the-top property and simply stay put—spending days sipping perfectly chilled rosé, dipping in the pool and boating along the coast. Two of our most popular properties in the area include Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel, and Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc. For something unexpected, the star brand behind Claridge’s, The Connaught and The Berkeley in London, as well as The Maybourne Beverly Hills, is expanding into the Mediterranean with the opening of Maybourne Riviera, in the picturesque town of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin. Perched on the cliffside overlooking the sea, with Italy to the East and Monte Carlo to the West, this striking Modernist resort will combine timeless glamour and laidback coastal living with high-design contemporary vibrance. The 79 rooms and suites and public spaces were created in collaboration with local artisans as well as such global talents as Andre Fu, Bryan O’Sullivan Studio, Marcelo Joulia, Pierre Yovanovitch, Pascal Goujon and Rigby & Rigby—and the dining program was conceived by Mauro Colagreco (of the three-Michelin-starred Mirazur), Jean-Georges Vongerichten and the Japanese chef Hiro Sato. And of course, the Riviera Playa beach club is not to be missed.
15. Greece
A summer vacation to Greece is nothing short of heaven. With over 2,000 islands to choose from, travelers can find their perfect match, whether they are seeking romance, seaside relaxation with family or authentic, incredible dining. For the ultimate resort experience—as if you’ve checked in to your own Mount Olympus—Amanzoe in the eastern Peloponnese commands a position atop a large hill, with an Ed Tuttle-designed complex so striking it would impress Alexander the Great. Thirty-eight palatial pavilions with private swimming pools are scattered throughout the property, offering views towards the sea or the valley, and a quick boat ride will bring you to nearby Hydra and Spetses for dining and exploring, should you tire of the on-property beach club, spa and fitness center. Plus: New hotels to know to include Kalesma, an intimate, design-minded stunner from K-Studio with a local, hip vibe, just outside of Mykonos, overlooking Ornos Bay—as well as One&Only Aesthesis (opening in the fall), which will mark the first major development in the ancient capital since the pandemic, in a dramatic revival of a landmark resort on the Athenian Riviera that used to play host to the international jet set in the 1960s and ’70s. With a prime—and secluded—the location on the Glyfada seafront, the One&Only will offer beach access, with a private club, as well as a small forest reserve, creating a beautiful escape from the bustle of the city center.
16. Croatia
The jagged strip of land that stretches from the Gulf of Trieste down to Albania and Greece, Croatia boasts one of the finest coastlines in the world. Blessed with sun-drenched islands, ancient walled cities, hilltop villages and a rich history, the country is made up of a fascinating mix of cultural influences—from Slavic to Italian—which permeate daily life. While history buffs (and Game of Thrones fans) should not miss a stop in Dubrovnik, prime summer getaway destinations include the celebrated food-and-wine region of Istria (where top properties include the Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery) and Hvar, a postcard-perfect sea town with vibrant nightlife and a new wellness-focused resort, Maslina, for detoxing (and retoxing) by day.
17. Colombia
From the charming colonial streets of Cartagena to the creative spirit of Bogotá and Medellín, and the remote coffee region, Colombia promises dynamic cultural immersion at the northern tip of South America. Equally thrilling for history and politics buffs, foodies, and art and design lovers, the perfect Colombia itinerary balances meaningful discussion of the country’s troubled past with an authentic look at the many colorful ways that it is moving into the future—and its many treasures await American travelers who can present negative results from a PCR test taken within 96 hours of departure for the country.
18. Peru
A must-visit for hikers as well as culture fiends and lovers of ancient history, Peru is once again open for travelers who have long had the country on their dream list—or who are looking for alternatives to rich, well-rounded summer destinations like Switzerland or Italy. The ideal itinerary should include time to explore in Cusco, Lima, and of course, the famous Sacred Valley—and travelers interested in wildlife and conservation should also consider adding on a cruise down the Amazon River aboard the intimate, luxurious Aqua Expeditions vessel Aria Amazon. (Peru is open to American travelers who present negative results from a PCR or antigen test taken within 72 hours of departure).
19. Seychelles
This archipelago of white-sand islands, over 1,000 miles off the coast of East Africa, is a renowned tropical destination for good reason: it is remote, luxurious and gorgeous. Perfect for a post-safari beach escape—or a summer destination in its own right—the Seychelles offer a castaway place to process, reset and rediscover your sense of wonder (with over-the-top luxury accommodations at such resorts as Six Senses Zil Pasyon, North Island and Frégate Island Private).
20. Napa Valley, California
Even for those who aren't diehard oenophiles, there is still plenty to do in Napa. In fact, vineyards make up only 9% of the region with the rest—including 53,000 acres that are under the care of the Napa Valley Land Trust—ripe for all manner of outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and hot springs. Brand new in Calistoga is the Four Seasons Napa Valley, which opened in November and is the first resort here to be set within a working winery. Also coming soon, in February, will be a new Auberge Resort called Stanly Ranch, where just 78 cottage suites, all equipped with outdoor terraces with fire pits, will be spread out over a 700-acre private ranch that dates back to the 19th century.
