Hot Spot: Iceland
More than likely, you’ve seen an abundance of Iceland travel snaps on your social feed. If it seems like everyone is flocking to Iceland these days, it’s because it’s one of the most interesting and photogenic destinations. From the landscapes (waterfalls!) to the natural wonders (the Northern Lights!), a road trip around this small but beautiful country is straight out of a dream.
Secret Spot: Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands sit between Iceland and Norway as part of the Kingdom of Denmark. It’s made up of 18 rocky, volcanic islands that are connected by road tunnels, ferries, causeways and bridges. Hikers and bird-watchers head to the islands’ mountains, valleys and steep coastal cliffs that are home to thousands of seabirds. Families will love the horseback riding, sailing and adventure sports offered in the Faroe Islands.
Hot Spot: Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Italian coast has long topped on travel bucket lists, and for good reason. Italy’s Amalfi Coast consists of several cliffside towns, along with mountains and beaches that offer the ultimate vista. Although Positano is lively with beach access and great dining, opt for a stay in the smaller and quieter town of Ravello. The gardens and mountain-top views at Belmond Hotel Caruso are unmatched.
Secret Spot: Costa Brava, Spain
Located in Catalonia just a short train ride from Barcelona, Costa Brava features several upscale beach towns ideal for families. Enchanting Girona features postcard-perfect views, while Roses is an idyllic beach town full of history, including a fortress dating back to the 11th century. From cobblestone streets to aquamarine waters and delicious seafood, you’ll find it all along this coast.
Hot Spot: Bahamas
The Bahamas are easy to get to from the US and there are dozens of islands to explore, each with their unique flare. Plus, the animal encounters are unique — be sure to take a swim with some friendly native pigs! Meanwhile, there are coral reefs to snorkel through and sea turtles to admire. Visit the Abacos Islands for a true “Out Island” experience.
Secret Spot: Antigua
For such a small island in the Caribbean, Antigua packs the punch when it comes to natural beauty and friendly locals. For an all-inclusive, family-friendly stay head to Curtain Bluff. The resort is quiet and self-contained with a fantastic kids’ program. Families can sail Hobie Cats and Windsurfers, dive, water-ski, go on snorkeling trips and play tennis, basketball, squash, bocce and shuffleboard.
Hot Spot: Bali
Bali is an Indonesian island known for its forested volcanic mountains, iconic rice paddies, beaches and coral reefs. The island in paradise is home to religious sites such as cliffside Uluwatu Temple, as well as stunning stretches of sand. Bali has certainly earned its reputation as a peaceful, spiritual retreat.
Secret Spot: Chiang Mai, Thailand
Nestled in the mountains of Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a paradise for families. Explore the downtown area teeming with temples, delicious food spots and cheap shopping, or visit an elephant sanctuary for an unforgettable day. The Four Seasons Chiang Mai is destination-worthy in its own right. Large Residences offer plenty of space for families and the breathtaking grounds offer views of rice fields and misty mountains. On-site activities like cooking classes, bathing the resident water buffalo and taking a family Muay Thai class round out the perfect trip.
Hot Spot: Maldives
The Maldives is a sovereign archipelagic nation in the Indian Ocean and surrounded by aquamarine water. Indulge in fishing excursions and cruising to watch the dolphins dance. Visit the capital, Male’, or deserted islands for swimming and a picnic.
Secret Spot: Tahiti
Located in the South Pacific Ocean, The Islands of Tahiti are an almost mythical destination. It’s an idyllic island paradise and once you visit, you’ll discover that this reputation isn’t wrong. Don’t miss out on adventures like zip-lines, 4×4 tours, hiking tours, snorkeling and ray feeding and more.
Hot Spot: Costa Rica
Costa Rica has long been an eco-tourism destination for Americans, with its close proximity and wide range of tropical beaches, grand adventures, natural wonders and scintillating culture. Costa Rica is a land of volcanoes, rain forests, waterfalls and rivers — perfect for little explorers.
Secret Spot: Panama
Panama is upping their eco-tourism game with many new resorts catering to visitors who love an authentic and natural experience. Head to Islas Secas for a Panama experience like no other. It’s a small resort 20 miles from civilization. There you’ll find a pristine ocean wilderness where the ultimate sustainable, barefoot luxury meets adventure at every turn.
Hot Spot: Brooklyn, New York
No trip to New York City is complete without hopping across the river to Brooklyn. From the iconic Brooklyn Bridge to the trendy coffee shops and murals found in Williamsburg there’s plenty for families in this large borough. The Brooklyn Botanical Gardens is a lovely place to spend a warm day, while Red Hook offers the chance to hop in a kayak and go for a paddle.
Secret Spot: St. Petersburg, Florida
St. Petersburg, which glimmers between the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay, draws a young, hip crowd with unique boutiques, ice cream parlors (don’t miss Larry’s Ice Cream & Gelato), kid-friendly breweries and museums. The world-renowned Salvador Dali Museum offers story times, tours and workshops for kids. For an artisanal culinary experience, check out Locale Market, a shopping and dining immersion experience with a mix of prepared foods, restaurants, bakeries, a coffee bar and beyond. Of course, there’s also the pristine white sand beaches for fun in the sun and water. For a family-friendly option, head to Fort De Soto Park’s North Beach.
Hot Spot: Banff, Canada
Banff, in Alberta, Canada, is nestled inside Banff National Park, where the Rocky Mountains dominate the skyline. The most famous spot in the area is the aquamarine Lake Louise. The lake is known for its turquoise, glacier-fed lake ringed by high peaks. Take a canoe out on the water or step into nature. Hiking trails wind up to the Lake Agnes Tea House for bird’s-eye views.
Secret Spot: Patagonia, Argentina
In a similar fashion, you’ll find turquoise lakes flanked by high, snowy peaks throughout the Patagonia region of South America. The stunning natural landscapes are best navigated by car, but don’t miss Torres del Paine National Park on the Chilean side of Patagonia. You’ll see soaring mountains, bright blue icebergs that cleave from glaciers and grasslands that are home to an abundance of wildlife.
Hot Spot: Colombia
Colombia is definitely having a moment. In Cartagena you’ll find colorful buildings, a tropical climate and popular beaches. A lovely mix of old and new, the sweet city is an easy place to stroll away the days. Bogota and Medellin offer similar picturesque getaways in the Andes and are quickly climbing the ranks becoming massively popular destinations for travelers.
Secret Spot: Uruguay
Uruguay is the less-discovered gem of South America. Montevideo features a lovely Old Town lined with pastel buildings. Colonia del Sacramento features the charm of cobblestone streets and old stone buildings with colorful flowers and vines climbing their walls. The Sheraton Colonia Golf & Spa Resort offers a relaxing getaway near the historic city complete with a massive indoor-outdoor pool. Meanwhile, Punta del Este is an upscale beach paradise fit for both celebrities and families.
Hot Spot: Peru
Peru is home to a portion of the Amazon rainforest, the famed Machu Picchu, culturally-rich cities and archaeological sites. Lima, the capital, is situated on the coast, with a preserved colonial center and a large collection of pre-Colombian art. For an incredible Machu Picchu experience that’s easier on little feet than hiking the Inca Trail, consider taking the Inca Rail train with panoramic views of the landscapes as you approach the site.
Secret Spot: Belize
Like in Peru, visitors to Belize can learn much about the country’s history through its own Mayan sites. In the north of Belize, head to Lamanai, a Mesoamerican archaeological site, and once a major city of the Maya civilization. Explore the town of San Ignacio and stay at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel where you can go on nature walks through the jungle just out the back door. Alternatively, the Belize Barrier Reef just offshore is dotted with hundreds of low-lying islands called cayes and home to a variety of marine life.
Hot Spot: Detroit, Michigan
The rich history of Detroit and the new growth and investment it’s experiencing has been attracting visitors in flocks, especially millennials. It has been rebuilding downtown with projects like the Hudson’s Site, which will change the city’s skyline as the tallest building at 912 feet and offer new spaces in the city’s core. Motown Records celebrated its 60th anniversary this year with celebrations for the popular music genre at the Motown Museum, which is preparing for expansion. Stay at Shinola Hotel, which combines preserved historic architecture with modern amenities, food and drinks. The hotel is within walking distance of numerous attractions and restaurants.
Secret Spot: Rochester, New York
Rochester and the surrounding Finger Lakes region are the ideal combination of city and nature. The downtown is revitalizing its industrial buildings and riverfront, and families will love the wide variety museums. Be sure to budget extra time at the Strong Museum of Play, the Rochester Museum of Science, the Susan B. Anthony house and the George Eastman Museum. Venture south to Bristol Mountain for a day on the slopes. This ski resort has excellent classes for kids and adults, along with a fantastic range of trails and ski runs. Delve into the local Native American history at the Ganondagan State Historic Site. Stay at Woodcliff Hotel and Spa to be centrally positioned.
Hot Spot: The Netherlands
Head to Amsterdam for a classic European city, complete with interesting architecture, meandering canals and world-class museums. Outside the city, be sure to visit the tulip fields, windmills and roaming countryside.
Secret Spot: Slovenia
Slovenia is also a captivating country, combining urban sophistication with stunning natural landscapes. Its capital, Ljubljana, mixes baroque facades with modern architecture. Head to Bled, a resort town in the foothills of the Julian Alps, set along the glacial Lake Bled. Families will love a visit to Bled Castle on a cliff overlooking the lake. The 11th century structure houses a museum, chapel and printing press.
Hot Spot: Jackson Hole, Wyoming
This idyllic mountain town has something for everyone, including epic skiing and easy access to some of the country’s most incredible national parks. The place to stay? The Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole. Not only does it have a great ski school, it also has plenty of activities kids will love like story time with the resident Bernese mountain dog, incredible stargazing opportunities and nature safaris at Teton National Park.
Secret Spot: Okemo, Vermont
This East Coast mountain spot located in the town of Ludlow features terrain perfect for beginners or advanced skiers, plus hills just for tubing. Beyond the slopes, there’s a thrilling mountain coaster, an Ice House for skating and a Kids Night Out program that includes pizza, movies and other fun activities where kids can make new friends. For parents, there’s plenty of great après-ski spots to enjoy in the area. Coleman Brook Tavern located in Jackson Gore Village at the base of Okema stuns with a list of almost 800 wines to select from.