Recent months have been hard on travel lovers. But as many locations begin to lift COVID 19-related restrictions, it’s finally time to reward your patience with a vacation. If you’re thinking of getting away this holiday season, we’re with you all the way. The only question: Where should you go? Whether you’re dreaming of a remote beach escape or a bustling urban adventure, read on for a roundup of five of our favorite travel destinations for the holidays.
1. The Cayman Islands
Known for its soft white sand and crystal blue waters, the Cayman Islands – home to world-famous Seven Mile Beach – is a perennial pick on roundups of the planet’s best beaches.
While this cluster of three islands located in the western Caribbean Sea may be best known for its miles of glorious coastline, it boasts many other allures, including extraordinary weather, awe-inspiring snorkeling, and vibrant wildlife – including the rare indigenous Blue Iguana.
Celebrated as the Caribbean’s culinary capital thanks to its abundance of fresh seafood, dynamic flavors, and farm-to-table ethos, the Caymans are also a haven for foodies.
2. Cape Town
“A coming-together of cultures, cuisines, and landscapes, there’s nowhere quite like Cape Town, a singularly beautiful city crowned by the magnificent Table Mountain National Park,” raves Lonely Planet of this fascinating and flavorful destination. Given its breathtaking natural beauty and many captivating attractions, it’s hardly surprising that the “Mother City” was recently awarded the title of “Best City in the World” for the seventh consecutive year in the 2019 Telegraph Travel Awards.
Other reasons to visit Cape Town? Outstanding gourmet food and world-class wine, rich history, and of course, the luxurious accommodations. It’s also a leader in sustainable tourism, so you can do some good as you go.
3. Puerto Vallarta
Suitable for everything from romantic retreats to family adventures and solo expeditions, Puerto Vallarta offers near-endless things to see and do. A beacon for beach lovers, this Mexican resort city occupies prime positioning on Mexico’s western coast on the Pacific Ocean.
Once just a small fishing village, Puerto Vallarta now caters to a cosmopolitan crowd looking to soak in the sun, art, culture, and lively nightlife. A few must-do activities on your visit? The oceanfront esplanade of Malecón, Vallarta Botanical Gardens, Los Muertos Pier, Los Arcos National Marine Park, and El Centro’s main square, the Plaza de Armas.
Outdoor adventure abounds in Puerto Vallarta in the form of everything from rappelling down waterfalls to whale watching. Feel free to work up an appetite while you’re at it – you’ll have plenty of opportunities to indulge thanks to Puerto Vallarta’s booming cuisine scene.
4. Montego Bay
“Montego Bay has two distinct faces: there’s the smooth tourist countenance that grins contentedly from the pages of a thousand glossy Caribbean brochures; and there’s MoBay proper, a pretty gritty city, second only to Kingston in terms of status and chaos,” says Lonely Planet. For travelers in search of an intriguing combination of escapism and authenticity, you’ll find it – and then some – in inimitable Montego Bay.
While it may be known as a mecca for spring breakers, “MoBay” has much more to offer than partying. Jamaica’s third-most populated city, this tropical paradise enchants and invigorates with glistening beaches, buzzing pubs and clubs, and enchanting arts, music, and culture. And did we happen to mention duty-free shopping?
5. Hawaii
No one should be surprised to find Hawaii on the list of best places to visit if you’re searching for sun, sand, and sea when temperatures plummet at home. Perhaps Lonely Planet put it best in declaring Hawaii to be “synonymous with paradise.”
When it comes to all things laidback and low-key, there’s no substitute for the Hawaiian vibe. Spend your days in the great outdoors surfing and swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, horseback riding, and hiking – or feel free just laying out and relaxing under the brilliant sun. Anything goes in Hawaii. Plus, at night, these Polynesian isles offer a different kind of adventure in the form of classic tiki bars, festive luaus, and sunset boat cruises.
If you’re ready to grab your passport and go, these holiday travel destinations are ready to welcome you. The best part? With Business Class, the sky is (literally) the limit when it comes to embracing your love of travel. Book with Business Class today to save up to 60 percent on the best first-class and business class flights.
