Destinations We Adore
Let’s celebrate Valentine’s Day with some travel love. It’s never easy playing favorites, but we did it anyway! Here are seven of our most cherished places on earth.
Greece: Beyond Santorini & Mykonos
Santorini and Mykonos might be Greece’s bold-faced names, but it’s the lesser-known isles that are stealing our hearts. Topping our list is Kéa Island, a decidedly laid-back island that’s the closest one to Athens. So why not visit both? Spend a few days exploring the famous archaeological sites of The Acropolis and shopping along the glitzy Athens Riviera, then take a short boat ride over to Kéa for some serious seaside relaxation. This little island is celebrated for its pristine beaches, miles of hiking, and the ancient Lion of Kéa sculpture that’s known as the island protector. It’s worth the trek to see it—trust us. It’s also not far from the One&Only Kea Island—one of the most anticipated recent hotel openings. Hugging the coast with its own private beach, this cliffside retreat epitomizes barefoot luxury.
Ecuador: Choco Rain Forest
A unique blend of biodiversity and luxury, “the Chocó,” one of the world’s most ecologically rich regions, is home to rare wildlife, cloud forests, and private eco-lodges with every five-star comfort and amenity you can dream of. Most notably: Mashpi Lodge, one of our all-time favorite places. Tucked deep in the rainforest of Quito, this resort offers majestic views, comfort, and activities with every turn. Be sure to go on a birdwatching adventure, take a guided jungle expedition, and experience the country’s gourmet cuisine served right in the middle of this pristine nature. Bonus points for a private yacht cruise to the Galápagos!
Italy: The Dolomites
The grand Dolomites have it all: natural beauty, big adventure, ultimate luxury, and some of the best food and wine in the world. Famous for its dramatic peaks, stunning alpine lakes, and world-class skiing, this Italian region is also known for five-star mountain resorts, Michelin-starred dining, and exclusive spa retreats. A private heli-skiing experience is one for the books, not to mention a guided hike through the mountainous UNESCO heritage sites. With one charming village after the next, the Dolomites are picture-perfect during all four seasons. Be sure to visit the town of Cortina d'Ampezzo, while Corvara is home to La Perla, the dreamiest alpine retreat with an incredible wine cellar and restaurant.
Botswana: Okavango Delta
In our opinion, this is the pinnacle of the African safari experience. A UNESCO-listed oasis, the iconic Okavango Delta in Botswana is the best choice for private game drives, excursions through winding waterways in traditional canoes called mokoros, helicopter safaris, and ultra-luxe lodges. For a magical stay, Wilderness Vumbura Plains features private suites set along the edge of the Delta waterways, each with its own viewing deck and plunge pool. Every day brings front-row access to wildlife sightings, from elephants to lions to rare birds. Top that with VIP service and private guides for anything you can imagine, and you’ll fall in love over and over again with this region.
South America: Patagonia
Spanning both Chile and Argentina, Patagonia is a true escape into untrammeled beauty—a rarity today. With dramatic glaciers, pristine lakes, and rugged peaks, the region is a playground for privately guided treks in Torres del Paine National Park, heli-hiking, glacial cruises, horseback adventures, and wildlife galore. The Singular Patagonia and Explora Torres del Paine are two unsurpassed stays, both with incredibly immersive experiences and some of the best guides we’ve experienced.
Switzerland: By Rail
Discover Switzerland by luxury train and it’s impossible not to fall head over heels for the country. Iconic trains like the Glacier Express and the GoldenPass Line reveal opulent journeys through postcard-worthy landscapes with 360-degree views of snow-capped peaks, emerald lakes, and charming villages. In first-class carriages, you’ll be spoiled with gourmet cuisine, personalized service, and private off-train excursions. For very-VIP stays along the way, we vote for Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa in Interlaken, The Chedi in Andermatt, and Baur au Lac in Zurich. Be sure to save time for a gondola tour from Interlaken to Jungfraujoch on the Eiger Express, as well as a hike to Staubbachfall Waterfall in Lauterbrunnen and a boat cruise on Lake Lugano.
