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New year, new experiences: Four epic getaways around the world

As a new year chimes in, it brings the promise of new vacations. Consider these four experience-led adventures in some of the world’s most exciting cities.

By Joanna Tweedy | January 11, 2024

The start of the year is the perfect time to look ahead and plan a trip from your vacation wish list. Whether it’s soaking up the atmosphere at a major sporting event, catching your favorite artist on stage in a thrilling foreign city or jetting to a destination for some rest and relaxation, these four trending travel destinations for 2024 are sure to inspire wanderlust.

The ultimate American experience in Las Vegas

Nevada’s neon-lit, fun-filled desert playground never disappoints — whether you’re enjoying Las Vegas for the first time or you’re a seasoned visitor. And 2024 is set to be a great year to pencil in a trip here. You’ll find renowned DJs keeping the Vegas vibe alive nightly at Zouk Nightclub at Resorts World Las Vegas, and come February, the biggest game in American football will roll into town. Add in the exhilarating casinos, rejuvenating spas, incredible shopping and dining experiences (plus the chance to explore the red-rocked desert around the city) and it’s hard to argue with those who call Vegas the ultimate U.S. vacation.

Character exploration in Paris

Paris may be known as the City of Lights, but it could also be called the “City of lights, camera, action…” with the wealth of TV shows and films that have used the French capital as an atmospheric backdrop. Everything from recent series to cinema classics have come to life amongst Paris’ romantic architecture. Afterall, what director could resist the ornate bridges that cross the Seine River, the elegant 19th-century boulevards or Montmartre’s charming traditional bistros? There are plenty of guided tours dedicated to helping you catch a movie-inspired selfie that will impress your friends back home. Beyond the film-worthy settings, iconic sites, stylish shopping and wonderful museums and galleries await.

Gig-tripping in Nashville

Tennessee’s biggest city is made for music-lovers, with live shows happening seven days a week. Watch your favorite idols play hits to thousands of people at Nashville’s Geodis Park; book seats for a show at the Grand Ole Opry, an iconic country music venue; or head to the Honky Tonk Highway, a stretch of Broadway Street, where you’ll find more than 30 bars with (often free) performances by emerging artists. Looking for something a little more interactive? Nashville has opportunities galore for karaoke and line-dancing, so pack your singing voice and your cowboy boots. There’s plenty of delicious Southern dining to enjoy too. Be sure to try a ‘meat and threes’ meal. This local favorite comprises a main dish — often fried chicken — with a trio of sides.

Immersive experiences in San Diego

San Diego is SoCal at its feel-good best, with historic districts, a string of gorgeous beaches ideal for surfing and a diverse dining scene. Where to stay? The legendary, red-roofed Hotel Del Coronado embodies the beauty of San Diego like no other property. Nudged up to the Pacific on Coronado Island, this iconic hotel opened in 1888, serving guests and making some famous appearances in Hollywood films. Check in and soak up the sunny surrounds like a local with fitness classes such as spinning or yoga on the beach. More interested in local flavors? Enjoy some elegant coastal glamour with a fresh sea-to-table lunch and a specialty cocktail at Serẽa, one of six dining venues onsite. Complete the ultimate SoCal stay vy watching the sun set during a private beach bonfire — marshmallows included, of course.

A vacation to look forward to ensures you’ll kick off the new year with a spring in your step, and planning is all part of the fun. If you haven’t considered it before, why not try a trip that indulges personal passions such as music, sport or wellness? It’s a surefire way to make memories to last a lifetime.

Joanna Tweedy is an award-winning travel writer and editor who lives in London. A former UK national newspaper travel editor, she now contributes across many titles, and specializes in writing about family travel, wellness breaks and luxury vacations.

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