There
are trips we strongly recommend you take and then there are those that we
basically demand. Trust us, as travel experts, we know the getaways that should
make your bucket list.
Here
are eight trips you HAVE to take before you die -- and we even ordered them
chronologically with the adventure you should embark on first in the number one
spot. Because, not like you can't go surfing at 95, but it's probably
better (and more enjoyable) if you just relax on the sand at that point.
1.
Surf-Centric Vacation in Hawaii
In
recent years, Costa Rica
has successfully pitted itself against Hawaii as a destination with an awesome
surf culture -- but we're still handing the victory to Hawaii. After all, we've
got to have some America pride! And with eight main islands, it's bound to have
a great spot for you to surf, whether you're a beginner looking for baby waves
or you seek some gnarly barrels.
Our Hotel
Pick: Kalani Hawaii, Oahu
The
10-room Kalani Hawaii
Private Lodging is a hostel with a bed-and-breakfast vibe, thanks to
owners Maria and Bernie, the latter of whom is a former Triple Crown of Surfing
contest director. The grounds are small but pretty and the beaches of North
Shore, known for excellent surfing, are just across the street.
2.
Diving Adventure at the Bioluminescent Bay in Puerto Rico
Just
a short drive from Puerto Rico's Old San Juan,
this famed "Bio Bay" puts on nature's most magnificent light show: At
night, when the bay is inky black beneath the light of the moon, microscopic
plankton glow turquoise. While swimming and kayaking through the neon waters is
certainly cool, we'd argue that scuba-diving may be the most awe-inspiring way
to experience it. However, diving at night is a totally different ballgame than
when the sun's out, so if you've never done it before, perhaps try a day dive
first.
Our Hotel
Pick: Hotel El Convento, Old San Juan
There
is nothing quite like the European-style El Convento
in the medieval city of Old San Juan. It was a convent for 252 years, and today
it's the neighborhood's principal upscale hotel, offering 58 elegant rooms and
suites filled with Spanish antique treasures and modern amenities.
3.
African Safari in Botswana
Northern
Botswana's diverse and exotic wildlife has made it a tourist destination for
the affluent and adventurous, and it embodies the fantasy of Africa: a land
with open savannas, sandy deserts, and shimmering orange sunsets, where
elephants, lions, leopards hippos, buffalo, hyenas, zebra, cheetahs,
crocodiles, and giraffes are still wild.
Our Hotel
Pick: Beyond Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp
This
luxurious safari lodge in Botswana delivers everything you'd expect from the
excellent & Beyond chain: amazing tents with
plush beds,
phenomenal service, tasty food, and safari
excursions with first-rate guides.
4.
Camping Excursion in Yosemite National Park
Perhaps
the best-known national park in the U.S., Yosemite
National Park is not only an attraction unto itself, but it is also
home to numerous natural wonders -- that are attractions themselves as well.
Picturesque granite cliffs and mountains (Half Dome and El Capitan being two of
the most popular), winding streams, beautiful waterfalls, and Giant Sequoias
create a gorgeous backdrop to a rugged camping experience.
Our Hotel Pick: Yosemite's Wawona Hotel is not only one of the oldest mountain resorts in California, but is also a National Historic Landmark. Located between the Mariposa Groves and tourist hot spot Yosemite Valley, the hotel occupies its own patch of secluded property of streams and forest.
5.
Romantic Getaway to Paris
Paris is the "city of
light," the art and fashion capital of the world -- and
undoubtedly the most romantic city in the world. As France's capital,
Paris boasts a plethora of museums, monuments, and astounding examples of
architecture, ranging from the iconic Eiffel Tower, built in 1889, to the
Gothic-style Notre Dame Cathedral, dating back to the Middle Ages.
Romance-focused visitors often stroll along the Seine to take in the many
sites, or walk down the Champs-Elysee, lined by high-end shops and crowned by
the Arc de Triomphe.
Our Hotel
Pick: La Maison Favart
This
upscale boutique hotel is one of the best choices in Paris, and offers
surprisingly competitive rates for the level of luxury. It is named for the
founder of the Opera Comique across the street, and the decor blends influences
of the 18th-century theater with modern trends. Several metro lines are
nearby, and popular sights such as the Louvre are within walking distance.
6.
Cultural Escape to Venice
With
a total of 51, Italy has more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other
country in the world -- and Venice
is home to many of them. In fact, "Venice and its lagoon" as a whole
make the list. Visitors come for Venice's rich history, fabulous museums (such
as the Peggy Guggenheim), and delicious food. And it wouldn't be a trip without
a gondola ride or a stroll around one of the city's ancient squares.
Our Hotel
Pick: Luna Hotel Baglioni
The
Luna Hotel
Baglioni is a luxury chain hotel with 104 rooms located less than a
two-minute walk from the shops, restaurants, and architecture of Saint Mark’s
Square. Canova, an award-winning restaurant serving Italian and international
cuisine, is on-site along with a café and full bar. Prices are a lower at
the Bauer Hotel,
but it’s farther from Saint Mark’s and less luxurious.
7.
Foodie Adventure in New Orleans
NOLA
has been known for its delectable grub for years, but in the past decade or so
it has found a spot on the country's fine-dining scene as well. Whether you
want a classic shrimp po' boy, a creole stew with a gourmet twist, or a beignet
heavily dusted in powdered sugar, you'll be able to find it in this fantastic
foodie city.
Our Hotel
Pick: The Roosevelt New Orleans
With
a grand lobby, classic rooms, a rooftop pool, a historic restaurant, and
wonderful service, The Roosevelt attracts a varied crowd of celebrities,
well-heeled couples, and business travelers. The upscale spa, the large fitness
center, and the hotel’s central location are all great features, but guests
should note that there are fees for Wi-Fi and for valet parking.
8.
Beach Retreat in the Maldives
Made
up of 26 atolls scattered in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives
is a beach destination that's totally set apart from other tropical getaways
like the Caribbean and Mexico -- making it a great way to treat yourself after
making your way around the globe on your various adventures. These remote,
tranquil islands are known for their over-the-water huts and terrific
snorkeling and diving locales. But if you're feeling lively and looking to
revisit your initial trip, surfing has recently become popular here as well.
Our Hotel Pick: The Sunrise
Pool at the Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort
With
plenty of on-site activities, beautiful beaches, and above-average food, Olhuveli
Beach & Spa Resort is a solid value for the Maldives and
is surrounded by white-sand beaches and a shallow turquoise lagoon. Some
sections of beach are more breathtaking than others, but guests should have no
trouble claiming a picture-perfect spot. Cushioned loungers and palapa
umbrellas are up for grabs, and a beach bar is available for drinks on the
southern end of the island. The resort's 164 rooms range from basic
beachside units to upscale water villas, and connecting rooms are available for
families. Those interested in flying in a seaplane should also consider Kuredu Island
Resort, which has even more amenities and free in-room Wi-Fi.
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