Just like writers’ block, we believe in such a thing as traveller’s block. You may think you’ve been there, done that, and seen it all before. Alternatively with a whole world out there the FOMO (fear of missing out) may hold you back from making that all too important decision of where to go next on holiday.
But it shouldn’t.
Start by delving into what motivates you to travel. Do you love a luxury escape, enjoy off the beaten track wild adventures, getting to grips with a city through its culture? Then browse through this hot list of options. But be warned, it is highly likely to fire up your wanderlust.
Within our luxury places to visit are destinations for foodies, beach lovers, adventurers, fans of the great outdoors and art enthusiasts. What unites all these motivations for travel though is the luxury experience that helps us create more memorable escapes.
Discovering where to go, when to go and where to stay can be a challenging, if not daunting task.
So for 2018 break free from the doubt. Here are 18 places to go to in 2018 including key information to help you plan your travels in true style.
Where to go next in 2018
1. Chile
The South American nation of Chile is unbelievably slender geographically, but it offers a vast range of experiences and landscapes from colossal mountain ranges to pulsating cities.
The key here is to slow the pace down and not rush your wanderings around the country – from arid dunes and captivating volcanoes, to enchanting forests and giant glaciers. Make sure discovering these pristine, untouched landscapes are high on your travel plans.
When you should go: Chile is a year-round destination but January is the warmest and sunniest month. April to November receives the lowest rainfall. If you’re heading south, October to March promise great weather with temperatures sometimes reaching 29˚C.
Where to stay: Start in central Santiago, with over 2,000 hotel options. The Lastarria Boutique Hotel in the bohemian heart of the entertainment district is a five-star hideaway with cosy bedrooms and private gardens to relax in.
Check for flights to Santiago de Chile
Further reading: Where to go in Chile, Chile: An Insider’s Guide, 11 epic experiences to have in Chile
2. Seville, Spain
We could wax lyrical about Seville following our recent rail adventure that took us to the city.
It’s a city with something of a movie star quality about it. If you’re looking for where to go next in 2018, the Andalucian capital will host the European Film Awards while it’s also been known to flaunt its good looks on Game of Thrones. Stop off at the Alcazar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featured in season five of the hit series as the Water Gardens of Dorne. Both on and off screen, its opulence dazzles the eye.
The royal palace was originally built by Moorish kings and it has become renowned as one of Spain’s most spectacular residences.
Picking up the architecture trail in the modern day, don’t miss the Metropol Parasol at La Encarnación square, in the Old Quarter, featuring six giant wooden parasols, inspired by the vaults of Seville Cathedral.
When you should go: Spring and autumn are best for sunny days and optimum temperatures. To avoid the crowds, March to May is the perfect time to visit.
Where to stay: Hit the buzzing rooftop bar and restaurant at Casa Romana for breathtaking views of the city. Enjoy the classic and elegant Romanesque surroundings. And you have the perfect location between the hip Alameda district and its boho bar-gallery-shops, and the central shopping district.
Further reading: Travel in Spain by Train: a city-hopping rail adventure, A clash of cultures in Seville, 15 things you absolutely must do in Seville
3. Detroit, US
Like a boy band comeback, Detroit in Michigan has revitalised itself following years of economic depression and ‘America’s Great Comeback City’ is now the place to be for creative types especially.
This legendary city was the birthplace of Motown and has been resident to a rich mix of artists from soul to pop – Stevie Wonder to Madonna.
Abandoned buildings have been transformed into distilleries, galleries and more, and now is the time to visit as the future is being re-written with the promise of something new from Corktown’s soaring craft beer scene to Rivertown’s eclectic mix of bars and restaurants.
When you should go: May, June, September and October are best if you’re looking for pleasant weather. Winter can be quite severe with snowstorms and intense rainfall.
Where to stay: There are six new hotels on the scene in the city, but our top pick is The Siren Hotel, located downtown in the 1926 Wurlitzer Building. The Art Deco haven is home to two retail shops, seven dining spaces, a rooftop deck and even a tasting counter, and cocktail stop.
Further reading: Unusual things to do in Detroit, Ten reasons to visit Michigan in Winter, The Detroit Guide
4. Slovenia
The Julian Alps is an often overlooked corner of Europe, but they have a lot to offer compared to famed resorts like Chamonix or Zermatt.
With Alpine lakes, rolling meadows, fewer crowds, the region is slowly opening the doors to more travellers looking for mountain bliss.
There’s a growing culinary scene here too. Ever since raw milk cheeses and Slovenian marbled trout were featured by chef Ana Roš on the Netflix series Chef’s Table, Slovenia’s food fame is drawing more people to this region of Eastern Europe. So popular in fact that it’s nearly impossible to get a table at Hiša Franko, the Soca Valley inn and restaurant that Roš runs with her husband.
To meet demand, the pair opened a small brewpub, Hiša Polonka so you won’t have to miss out on the delicious discoveries of Slovenian cuisine.
When you should go: Slovenia has a very mixed climate. For snowy slopes in the Alps, December to March offers the white stuff in abundance. Ljubljana is the perfect year-round destination. Enjoy the warmth of the Adriatic coast during summer, and its pleasantly mild winters.
Where to stay: Vila Mila is walking distance from Lake Bled, overlooked by the Julian Alps. You have skiing nearby, and apartments here are stylish and spacious.
Further reading: The ultimate 4-day Slovenia itinerary, Ten reasons to visit Ljubljana, 9 things to know before visiting Slovenia
5. Grenada, Caribbean
Known as the Spice Island, Grenada is one of the Caribbean’s rather under the radar destinations, even though it has lots to offer including secluded beaches, lush rainforests and a lively culture. And in 2018, the island is getting ready to attract yet more luxury travellers with the opening of three new high-end hotels to complement the fact that Grenada is now a port of call for 33 new ships.
Silversands Hotel will be the first major resort to open on Grand Anse beach in 25 years and will be home to the longest swimming pool in the Caribbean, while Kimpton Kawana Bay and the Levera Beach Resort will be completed on the island in the coming months.
So if you are trying to figure out where to go next and looking to fly and flop in luxury, Grenada is sure to fit the bill perfectly.
When you should go: January to April are best for dry weather minus the humidity but May and June provide a better balance for weather and cost. Avoid the hurricane season between July and October.
Where to stay: Silversands opens in March 2018, providing an alternative to cookie cutter luxury you might find elsewhere in the Caribbean’s resorts with indulgent spaces that are not gated off from the rest of the world, but still meet your every whim and desire.
Further reading: 61 awesome things to do in Grenada, Planning a trip to Grenada
6. Buenos Aires, Argentina
This year, Buenos Aires will be centre stage on the arts, sports and politics scenes with the inaugural Art Basel Cities program, the Youth Olympic Games, and the G20 all taking place in the city.
Art Basel Cities is set to elevate Buenos Aires’ reputation on the global art scene with local art initiatives, lectures and workshops throughout the year to attract the creatively minded. Visit in September for a whole week of public arts programming and discover works by up and coming artists.
Sports fanatics can cheer on the world’s best talent at the Youth Olympic Games in October. Significant development is underway to prepare for the event, breathing new life into the south of Buenos Aires.
And there are other reasons to celebrate. Tegui, in stylish Palermo, was recently named one of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants – the first time a restaurant in Argentina has made the list so be sure to book a table.
When you should go: To pick up the best deals, travel between April and June. The best weather is from March to May and September to November. November is particularly fabulous as it’s when the fragrant Jacaranda trees are in full bloom.
Where to stay: You’ll discover some of the city’s finest hotels in Recoleta dotted along its broad, tree-lined avenues and French-style buildings. The modern spaces at Palacio Duhau – Park Hyatt are infused with touches of belle-époque elegance and the palatial residence comes complete with its own art gallery, exclusive gardens and an indulgent spa service.
Check for flights to Buenos Aires
Further reading: 10 things to do in Buenos Aires, Girl’s Weekend Guide to Buenos Aires, Three Days in Buenos Aires
7. Montenegro
Move over Croatia – Montenegro is in town.
Celebrities, cruisers and travellers are flocking to the ancient, Venice-esque city of Kotor in Montenegro to lounge in luxury and wander its sleepy towns and the glitzy Porto Montenegro marina.
Enjoy late afternoon rambles along the labyrinth of cobblestone streets, and you’ll soon be arrested by the contrast of drama and delight, where past meets the present.
When you should go: Plan to visit anytime from April to September, although bear in mind that July and August can be unbearably hot and crowded.
Where to stay: We were excited to hear about the first European One&Only resort, opening in summer 2018 in Montenegro. The One&Only Portonovi, will overlook the Adriatic Sea, and feature 140 villas and residences, a tennis club, and spa.
Check for flights to Montenegro
Further reading: The ultimate guide to Montenegro, 26 reasons to visit Montenegro, A guide to Kotor
8. Valletta, Malta
A picturesque trio of islands lapped by turquoise waters, the Maltese archipelago has all the charm of nearby Sicily.
The Maltese capital of Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage site and its previously underrated and unassuming charm is now having its moment in the sun. Another Game of Thrones location, the hit series has helped catapult Valletta to fame and this year it has been named a 2018 European Capital of Culture.
The mix of Mediterranean and North African culture keeps things interesting, and with more than 140 projects and 400 events being held across the year in one of the four main squares, you have plenty to keep you occupied.
When you should go: Time your visit for the carnival in February or jet off in June for the Arts and Film Festivals.
Where to stay: Hotel Phoenicia is Malta’s most iconic and historic, and is jam-packed with character with a glorious terrace overlooking the bastion walls of Valletta. We love its fresh, summery feel and the idea of a restful night’s sleep having made full use of the hotel’s pillow menu.
Check for flights to Valletta
Further reading: The definitive guide to Valletta, A weekend in Valletta
9. New Orleans, Louisiana
It’s where the good times roll especially because in 2018, the Big Easy is turning 300. Think massive Mardi Gras parades, Southern style, and when the sun sets, buildings bursting with a party atmosphere.
Join the year of celebrations as NOLA thrusts the doors open to share the rich and diverse history and culture of the city, with events including the Tabasco Burlesque Opera which was last performed in 1894, the Up From the Streets Tricentennial Concert focused on the city’s jazz routes, and so much more.
When you should go: Celebrations are in full swing from February, when the weather is suitably cool. Plan your trip around the parades.
Where to stay: Considered the Grand Dame of Bourbon Street, as you step over the threshold of the Royal Sonesta, you are transported to another world of fine dining, Art Deco and abstract art installations, seductive food options and whimsical interiors providing a great break from hotel monotony.
Check for flights to New Orleans
Further reading: Foodie’s guide to New Orleans, A shortcut guide to New Orleans
10. Edmonton, Alberta
Following our friend Jayne’s food tours and café-hopping adventures in Alberta a few months ago had us salivating and making our own plans of where to go next.
From hipster haunts to pop-up pick-me-ups, it’s effortlessly cool and that’s without covering the region’s rainbow of attractions which include Canada’s only Neon Museum and the striking streetcar sunsets. We will leave Jayne to fill you in on the rest with her recommendations on things to do, where to eat, and why Old Strathcona is a place to call home.
When you should go: June to August is the ideal time to visit for great weather and the festival season is in full swing.
Where to stay: Try out Metterra Hotel on Whyte for soothing interiors themed around the elements of earth, water, fire and air. A relaxing retreat in between your Edmonton wanders, and the complimentary breakfast and wine tastings are the ultimate way to top and tail the day.
Check for flights to Edmonton
Further reading: Things to do, where to eat, and why Old Strathcona is a place to call home.
11. United Kingdom
Our recent Game of Thrones escapades in Northern Ireland made us realise that the UK can make for a perfect break for film fans. There are many cinematic locations to visit without having to hop on a plane.
In fact you only have to binge watch a few Netflix boxsets to reveal the UK’s most beautiful places to visit, from stately homes to grand palaces.
London and Cambridgeshire were key locations featured in The Crown. Buckingham Palace scenes were actually filmed at Lancaster House, while Ely Cathedral was used to represent Westminster Abbey.
Heading North, Peaky Blinders – the hit series based on a real-life Birmingham gang, was actually filmed in Liverpool, owing to its range of well-preserved Victorian buildings. Hop on a tour in Liverpool to visit the set where the Shelby’s live, Tommy’s country house and the museum used to film warehouse scenes.
When you should go: These cities are very much year-round destinations and as British weather can often be unpredictable, it’s best to go with the flow.
Where to stay: Check out these places to stay in London. If you’re heading to Liverpool, base yourself on the waterfront for views of the Mersey and Albert Dock. The recently opened Pullman Liverpool should do just nicely. We love the hotel’s sleek colour schemes and would insist on making at least one visit to the Oyster Bar!
Check for flights to Belfast, Liverpool or London
Further reading: TV Map of Britain, Poldark Film Locations, Harry Potter Locations in Edinburgh
12. Norway
It’s claimed that northern Norway offers one of the most interesting places to see the Northern Lights. And as the Aurora Borealis is high on many a bucket list, we were all too happy to test that theory on a Hurtigruten Northern Lights cruise.
There are a phenomenal number of ways to see the Northern Lights in Norway, with activities, tours, cruises, restaurants and hotels all geared up for the magical display of greens, pinks and violets dancing across the night sky – you can decide if it’s nature, legend or science at play.
With suggestions that the lights could fade within ten years, now is the time to plan your trip.
When you should go: Visit between late September and March for the best chances of seeing the Northern Lights dancing across the sky.
Where to stay: Book a hotel in Tromsø, believed to be one of the better towns in Northern Norway to glimpse the display. Try Scandic Ishavshotel for harbour views, nightlife and classy design touches.
Check for flights to Tromsø
Further reading: The essential travel guide to Norway, How to plan the perfect trip to see the Northern Lights
More places to visit this year
Still looking for more inspiration? Here are five more destinations where to go next in 2018:
13. Botswana, Africa
In a nutshell: Rare, extraordinary and unspoilt wildlife; huge herds of elephants; luxury and environmentally friendly lodges; the world’s second largest zebra migration… there are so many reasons to head for Botswana. Read more
14. Galicia, Spain
In a nutshell: Galicia completely dissolved our preconceived ideas of northern Spain. Yes it boasts lust-after wine and seafood but delve a little deeper and it’ll reveal much more to keep you coming back time and again.
15. Japan
In a nutshell: It’s tranquil, it’s chaotic, and everything in between. Japan is the sort of country that leaves you speechless with a quirky mix of attractions and sights that will satisfy even the fussiest of traveller. It never fails to disappoint. Read more
16. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
In a nutshell: If there’s one thing Vietnam is indicative of it’s our view that culture doesn’t live in museums, it is all around, from the people we meet to the temples we visit. Check out our Instagram to discover exactly that.
17. Los Cabos, Mexico
In a nutshell: With lively nightlife, pristine beaches and glamorous five-star resorts moving in, the colonial towns of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo are the trendiest spots in Mexico right now.
18. Jordan
In a nutshell: One for the intrepid traveller and history buff, Jordan is a safe place to discover Middle Eastern marvels, including Petra and its 2,000 years of stories. More recently, it’s gaining a reputation for its luxury hotel options.
Some images have been licensed under Creative Commons 2.0: Joe Hunt, Kurt Bauschardt
June says
If some of these recommendations are political and peoples safety is at risk, you need to make us aware of how it’s risky. My husband goes to Detroit for business and will totally disagree with you about going there. It’s dangerous.
Caitríona says
What an interesting and varied list. I love that there are a couple places I never considered before. You find such fabulous destinations. Thanks!
ranu says
I love that there are a couple places I never considered before. You find such fabulous destinations. Thanks!