best travel stories 2022

The Best Books of 2022

This Year's Must-Reads

The Ten Best Books About Travel of 2022

After two years of limited travel opportunities, we’re ready to explore the world once more

Jennifer Nalewicki

Travel Correspondent

Traveling is about much more than your destination—it’s about the people who live there, and for many travelers it’s the experiences they have alongside locals that are the most memorable. Take, for instance, the story of a journalist who lived with an Iñupiaq family of whale hunters in Alaska before setting off with her toddler to follow the gray whale migration, or a young woman who traveled solo 6,800 miles by bike from Europe to the Middle East, often turning to local farmers and villagers to help her navigate unfamiliar territory. Both women adapted their experiences into books where they relive the laughter (and the pain) they shared with members of the local communities that go far beyond anything found in a guidebook.

Here are ten travel book releases from 2022 that are inspiring us to dust off our passports and experience new locales alongside the people who make them unforgettable.

The Catch Me If You Can: One Woman’s Journey to Every Country in the World by Jessica Nabongo

Visiting all 195 countries in the world is no small feat and a goal that most people can only dream of. Luckily, armchair travelers can live vicariously through author Jessica Nabongo’s epic worldwide adventure in her book The Catch Me If You Can . From retelling the blow-by-blow of a scooter accident in Nauru (an island nation in Micronesia that also happens to be the world’s least visited country) and dog-sledding in Norway to swimming with humpback whales in Tonga and learning the art of making traditional takoyaki (octopus balls) in Japan, the 38-year-old, who’s also the first Black woman to travel to every nation in the world, introduces readers not only to bucket-list-worthy places but also to the people who live there.

The Catch Me If You Can: One Woman's Journey to Every Country in the World

In this inspiring travelogue, celebrated traveler and photographer Jessica Nabongo―the first Black woman on record to visit all 195 countries in the world―shares her journey around the globe with fascinating stories of adventure, culture, travel musts, and human connections.

Soundings: Journeys in the Company of Whales by Doreen Cunningham

In an everchanging world threatened by climate change, whales have learned to adapt. Irish British author Doreen Cunningham takes that notion to heart in Soundings , which blends science and nature writing with memoir as she shares her own experiences as a struggling single mother and journalist. Together with her toddler, she follows the migration route of gray whales as they make the long journey between Mexico and Alaska (where years earlier she spent time with Iñupiaq whalers), experiencing from a distance the familial bonds, not unlike her own close relationship with her son, of the marine mammals. “What at first seems a reckless, near-mystical pursuit of an imagined being leads her to find a human pod of her own,” writes the Guardian ’s Edward Posnett.

Soundings: Journeys in the Company of Whales: A Memoir

A story of courage and resilience, Soundings is about the migrating whales and all we can learn from them as they mother, adapt, and endure, their lives interrupted and threatened by global warming.

Bridges of the World by Giancarlo Ascari

Italian cartoonist and journalist Giancarlo Ascari has a degree in architecture, so it’s no wonder why he’s fascinated with bridges. Packed with illustrations by Pia Valentinis , Ascari’s book Bridges of the World highlights recognizable spans like the brightly painted Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and the Victorian Gothic-style Tower Bridge in London, while also highlighting less obvious examples, including the stretch of wire French high-wire artist Philippe Petit strung between the Twin Towers in New York City and dangerously crossed in 1974. In total, Bridges of the World features 50 human-made and natural wonders accented by interesting facts and anecdotes.

Bridges of the World

Fifty bridges from all over the world to be crossed on foot or with one's imagination.

Black Lion: Teachings from the Wilderness by Sicelo Mbatha

When Sicelo Mbatha was a child, he watched in horror as a crocodile viciously attacked his cousin. Rather than shy away from the cruel realities of nature, the Zulu author, who goes by the nickname Black Lion, confronted them head on to become a wilderness guide. Over the years, he’s volunteered at Imfolozi Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal, a province located along the coast of South Africa. Because of his childhood encounter, he has learned to approach the savanna and the lions, elephants and other animals that inhabit it from a spiritual perspective. He has since fostered a deeper connection with the local fauna and hopes to pass that mindset on to visitors on his guided excursions as well as readers of Black Lion , his debut book.

Black Lion: Alive in the Wilderness

Wilderness guide Sicelo Mbatha shares lessons learnt from a lifetime’s intimate association with Africa’s wildest nature.

The Writer’s Journey: In the Footsteps of the Literary Greats by Travis Elborough

Ask any writer, and they’ll likely confirm that a story’s setting plays as critical a role as its plot. Case in point: Would Bram Stoker’s Gothic novel Dracula be as compelling if it wasn’t set in macabre Transylvania? Like Stoker, many literary greats were inspired by places they traveled to before sitting down to write. In The Writer’s Journey , British author and cultural commentator Travis Elborough explores 35 experiences around the globe that influenced authors and helped shape their writings, including Herman Melville’s perilous 1841 whaling voyage on the Atlantic and Jack Kerouac’s cross-country escapades in the late 1940s over “all that raw land that rolls in one unbelievable huge bulge over to the West Coast.”

The Writer's Journey: In the Footsteps of the Literary Greats

Follow in the footsteps of some of the world’s most famous authors on the journeys which inspired their greatest works in this beautiful illustrated atlas.

South to America: A Journey Below the Mason-Dixon to Understand the Soul of a Nation by Imani Perry

What comes to mind when you think of the American South? The Civil War? College football? Gone with the Wind ? Imani Perry , an award-winning author and African American studies professor at Princeton University, tackles all of these topics in her New York Times best seller South to America . Combining history with culture, Perry brings readers on an eye-opening journey south of the Mason-Dixon line, from her native Alabama to Appalachia, focusing not only on past civil atrocities that have scarred the region and the country as a whole, but also on the immigrant communities, artists and innovators leading the way to a brighter future.

South to America: A Journey Below the Mason-Dixon to Understand the Soul of a Nation

An essential, surprising journey through the history, rituals, and landscapes of the American South—and a revelatory argument for why you must understand the South in order to understand America

The Slow Road to Tehran: A Revelatory Bike Ride Through Europe and the Middle East by Rebecca Lowe

While the Syrian War rattled the Middle East in 2015, journalist Rebecca Lowe embarked on a yearlong 6,800-mile grand tour via a bicycle she affectionately named “Maud” from her home base of London to Tehran. During her epic ride, she cycled through Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt, Sudan and the Gulf, often relying on the knowledge and assistance of farmers, villagers and other locals she met along the way. For her travel memoir The Slow Road to Tehran , she weaves her own experiences as a woman traveling alone through the mountains and deserts of the Middle East with tales about the people and cultures she encountered. Tom Chesshyre of the Critic calls it “modern travel writing at its very best, full of vim and vigor, painstakingly researched, laced with wry humor, political (without being too political), adventurous and rich with anecdote.”

The Slow Road to Tehran: A Revelatory Bike Ride through Europe and the Middle East

One woman, one bike and one richly entertaining, perception-altering journey of discovery.

Antarctica: A History in 100 Objects by Jean de Pomereu and Daniella McCahey

On January 17, 1773, Captain James Cook made the first crossing into the Antarctic Circle aboard the Royal Navy sloop Resolution . Now, on the 250th anniversary of this monumental journey, historical geographer Jean de Pomereu and historian Daniella McCahey have come together to highlight 100 objects (culled from the National Maritime Museum in London, the Library of Congress, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History and many other collections) that define the world’s least-visited continent. Items that made the cut and are featured in their co-written book Antarctica include the tiny, 22-foot lifeboat used by Irish explorer Ernest Shackleton and his crew after their ship struck ice and sunk in 1915; a sealing club fashioned out of the penis bone of an elephant seal; and skis that Norwegian explorer Olav Bjaaland used in the early 1900s.

Antarctica: A History in 100 Objects

This stunning and powerfully relevant book tells the history of Antarctica through 100 varied and fascinating objects drawn from collections around the world.

This Contested Land: The Storied Past and Uncertain Future of America’s National Monuments by McKenzie Long

Despite their federal designation as protected land, national monuments in the United States come under threat. Just look at Bears Ears National Monument, a 2,125-square-mile expanse of red sandstone, cliff dwellings and petroglyphs in the Utah desert held sacred by many Native Americans. The Trump administration decreased the monument in size by 85 percent to allow for oil drilling (only for the Biden administration to later restore its protections). In her debut book, This Contested Land , author and graphic artist McKenzie Long sets out by ski, foot and fin to explore 13 sites across the country, including Maine’s Katahdin Woods and Hawaii’s Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, in a series of compelling essays that convey the importance of protecting these natural resources from the threats of development and climate change.

This Contested Land: The Storied Past and Uncertain Future of America’s National Monuments

One woman’s enlightening trek through the natural histories, cultural stories, and present perils of 13 national monuments, from Maine to Hawaii

Crossed Off the Map: Travels in Bolivia by Shafik Meghji

The world’s highest metropolis is La Paz, Bolivia, home to two million inhabitants living at 13,600 feet above sea level (higher than Mount Fuji). However, not many people know this fact, nor much about the South American country, for that matter. In Crossed Off the Map , author, travel expert and Amnesty International editorial consultant Shafik Meghji introduces readers to the landmarks, history and current issues of Bolivia. Fellow travel author Tim Hannigan says in the book blurb, “Shafik Meghji is a natural travel writer with a ready mastery of history, anecdote and atmosphere, and [this] is the best sort of travel book—an informed and informative portrait of Bolivia that doubles as a vicarious journey for readers on an epic scale, through high mountains, across the altiplano [high plains] and into deep tropical forests.”

Crossed Off the Map: Travels in Bolivia

Blending travel writing, history and reportage, Crossed off the Map: Travels in Bolivia journeys from the Andes to the Amazon to explore Bolivia’s turbulent past and contemporary challenges.

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Jennifer Nalewicki | | READ MORE

Jennifer Nalewicki is a Brooklyn-based journalist. Her articles have been published in The New York Times , Scientific American , Popular Mechanics , United Hemispheres and more. You can find more of her work at her website .

Editor’s Pick: read our 12 favourite travel stories from 2022

Recently updated on January 5th, 2023 at 03:33 am

We love telling great travel stories, and you love reading them. So with the year coming to an end, we thought we’d highlight 12 of the best interviews, destination guides and travel stories from 2022. 

Loaded with brilliant travel tips, inspiring tales and funny stories from our Travel Directors, these stories will motivate, educate and make you laugh. Maybe you read them, maybe you missed them – whatever the case, use these pieces as inspiration to fuel your travel dreams in 2023 and beyond. Read on to discover our 12 favourite travel stories from 2022.

9 ways you can travel more sustainably in 2022

Sustainability is front of mind for many of us, and so we wrote this handy guide with nine simple yet thoughtful suggestions for how our guests can travel more sustainably. From buying locally made, low-impact souvenirs to taking longer trips, read the full travel story for serious tips.

READ THE ARTICLE

GET INSPIRED BY: Costa Rica Eco Adventure

11 things travel can help teach you about yourself in 2022

Travel makes us richer, not in money but through the experiences we have and the journey of reflection. Our writer Katie says: “As one of life’s greatest teachers, travel can help improve your mental health by revealing your strengths, challenging your limits, and showing you what’s really important to you.”

27 acts of kindness you can do on a Trafalgar trip

Carry out an act of kindness, with no expectation of reward, safe in the knowledge that one day someone might do the same for you. Diana, Princess of Wales

Wouldn’t the world be a better place if we were all a little more conscious of those around us and stopped to offer small gestures to strangers? From learning people’s names to tipping your waiters, we rounded up 27 simple acts of kindness you can do on a Trafalgar trip to help spread the good vibes.

A pocket guide to travel to Australia in 2022

Picture yourself petting kangaroos and hugging koalas, or swimming in warm salty waters off beautiful beaches? Australia is an aspirational destination for many, topping the list on many travel bucket lists. The country reopened to visitors in 2022, so if you didn’t make it down under in 2022, maybe you can start making plans for 2023 or beyond and finally snap that photo of you beneath the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

GET INSPIRED BY: Australian Highlights

Meet Carol, the Trafalgar guest who’s been on 40 tours and counting

Yes, 40 trips with Trafalgar! We love Carol, and Carol loves travel. The 78-year-old American has made travel more than her passion. The retired school teacher is on a mission to see the world. Interviewing her was one of our favourite travel stories for 2022.

Going it alone: meet 10-time solo traveller, Candy

Another guest we loved interviewing this year was Candy. Hailing from the Philippines, Candy is an inspiration for solo travellers and has joined us on 10 tours – all solo! Read about her adventures, passion for exploring, and top tips for other people eager to give solo travel a shot.

13 ultimate bucket list experiences to do before you die, as chosen by you

No one knows travel like you guys, our fans and guests, so we asked on Facebook for the most unforgettable, ultimate bucket list experiences that really are worth the hype. Here are the 13 bucket list experiences, chosen by you.

A brief history of Italy’s long-standing love affair with pasta

Italy is pasta, pasta is Italy . Loved around the world, one of our favourite travel stories this year dives into everyone’s favourite carbohydrate. Learn about the Italian’s love affair with this eternal ingredient. The long and complex history of pasta stretches back beyond the Middle Ages, so buckle up and learn more about the humble carb.

GET INSPIRED BY: Best of Italy

We quizzed our Travel Directors on the weirdest foods they’ve braved on their travels

From deep-fried scorpions to mac n’ cheese soft-serve, we quizzed our globe-trotting Travel Directors to find out what strange snacks and local delicacies they’ve tried and tasted on their travels.

Travel Director, Javier, on how to eat tapas like a local

Tapas are the heart of Spanish food culture. For us outsiders, we might not quite understand the culture around tapas, what to order and how to eat it. So we asked Madrid local and Trafalgar Travel Director Javier Galvez to share with us how to enjoy these small dishes like a Spanish local.

GET INSPIRED BY: Best of Spain

10 off-the-beaten track destinations you should add to your bucket list in 2023

One of our top travel stories in the past couple of months highlighted 10 unique spots to avoid the crowds and explore underrated destinations. From remote destinations like Sighnaghi in Georgia to the hard-to-get-to locations like the Inkaterra Forest in the Amazon, find out where you can go with Trafalgar and blaze your own trail in 2023.

Beyond Venice and Rome: Explore these off-the-beaten-track Italian towns with Trafalgar

One of the best things about travel is the lesser-known, unexpected surprises. While you have to visit Venice and Rome, we love sharing travel stories about these off-the-radar destinations and experiences that make a trip so much more memorable. Inspire your wanderlust with these six off-the-beaten-track Italian towns.

GET INSPIRED BY: Northern Italy including Cinque Terre

So, those are our 12 favourite travel stories from 2022. Let us know which one was your favourite in the comments….

Want more? Read 12 more Real Word travel stories from 2022

• What to do if your partner doesn’t want to travel
• 30+ years of memories: Trafalgar’s Travel Directors reveal all
• We asked, you answered: these are the best National Parks in the USA
• From then to now: how coach travel has changed over 75 years  
• We asked, you answered: THIS is the trip our guests would do over, and over again
• 11 reasons to travel to Switzerland outside of the ski season  
• Travel Director Diaries: 24 hours in Norway with Lasse
• Beyond the tourist traps: How Trafalgar helps you feel connected to local culture  
• Travel Director Letizia, on why she’s proud to share her Italian heritage with guests
• Here are the 10 best places to see the northern lights  
• Why it’s OK to visit the same travel destination twice  
• 9 extraordinary food etiquette rules from around the world

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The Best Travel Writing of the Year: Our Favorite Stories of 2022

Tom Lowry , Skift

December 26th, 2022 at 7:00 AM EST

Travel came roaring back in 2022 and we were there to cover it all from across the globe. By asking our team of editors and reporters to pick their favorite stories from the year, it really captures the scope of that coverage. Enjoy their inside accounts of how these stories came to be.

Every year we give you a glimpse into how our favorite stories evolved from idea to publication, offered by the reporters and editors themselves.

As you will see, our work was far-ranging in 2022 and not obsessively focused on pandemic fallout as it had been in prior years. I am always incredibly grateful to work with this team day in and day out. Showcasing some its best work, once again, is a highlight of the year.

Please take a look, and we hope you find that our favorites are yours, too.

Dennis Schaal, Founding Editor

Puerto Rico Offers These Lessons for Global Tourism

The Backstory: My Skift Take for this story summed it up. “Puerto Rico tourism, bolstered by Airbnb when hotels were shut, has had a noteworthy comeback. But if travel and living have blended, then the island’s fiscal and political woes can’t be overlooked.”

This was my favorite story of the year to write — and it was a very important one, too — because it wasn’t just about “travel,” but dealt with the impact of Airbnb, tourism, U.S. colonialism, and unfettered development on the island’s people.

No, this wasn’t a rah-rah, boosterish tourism story that you might see in trade publications (and I’ve never considered a Skift a trade publication, per se). I interviewed people inside and outside the travel industry, including my local bartender in Rincón, Puerto Rico, and a customer at the bar who turned out to be an expert in land usage and its environmental impact.

Yes, it hit close to home since I live in Rincón, and several times people driving by my apartment on a fairly busy, small roadway have stopped their cars, honked their horns to get my attention, and asked me whether the home has apartments to rent. With an an acute housing shortage in Puerto Rico and soaring rental prices , I sadly informed them that no, the other apartments in the home are Airbnbs. (No, I’m not the host.)

The story has lots of real reporting, which I love doing, and holds tourism and other officials to account. That’s our job as journalists, after all.

Jay Shabat, Senior Analyst, Airline Weekly

Istan-Bullish

The Backstory: Each quarter, I review all available airline financial statements, paying particular attention to operating margins. I was naturally impressed at how well Turkish Airlines performed this summer. Not only did the company earn an extraordinary profit. It did so while growing aggressively. How did Turkish manage to pull this off? 

My investigation led me to interesting and unexpected discoveries, like how Istanbul was benefitting from operational difficulties at other European airports, and from a jump in traffic from Russia. The story was no less interesting on the cost side, with Turkish Airlines managing to avoid some of the cost problems afflicting other carriers in 2022. With each passing year, Turkish is becoming more and more important to the global aviation landscape, flying to more and more places with more and more planes. The pandemic, it seemed, was but a brief and mild disruption to its meteoric rise. 

Can it keep things going? Its ambitions certainly haven’t cooled, as my article made clear. I’ll most certainly be watching Turkish Airlines closely in 2023. 

Rashaad Jorden , Associate Editor

A Daughter of Nigerian Immigrants Helping Under-Represented Students See the World 

The Backstory: I was tasked with doing At Your Service, Skift’s monthly feature of an individual with a cool job in travel, for April. The person who I was first assigned to profile for the article didn’t have any time for an interview. But then I was referred to Bola Ibidapo, the co-founder of the Too Fly Foundation, which works to provide study abroad opportunities for students in under-represented groups, most notably Hispanic and African Americans. 

I was excited about the opportunity to interview Ibidapo because I was eager to hear about how she was working to create study-abroad opportunities for young people. It was apparent early on during our interview that this would be a great story because she was passionate about her work. And I loved seeing Ibidapo light up about how she and Too Fly co-founder Brandon Miller were working to make study abroad sound exciting, including turning information sessions about opportunities into pep rallies. 

There are so many people doing amazing things in the travel industry, and I was honored to feature one of them. 

Sean O’Neill , Senior Hospitality Editor

BET Co-Founder Expands Hotel Brand Salamander in Pursuit of the New Luxury

The Backstory: This was a transition year for me as I moved from covering the travel tech beat (where I had a notable scoop on Sabre trying to sell its hotel software division , if I do say so myself). It’s been intimidating, frankly, to delve into the complexities of the hotel industry. I call out this piece as my favorite because Skift hadn’t had previously profiled Sheila Johnson, the founder of the hotel brand Salamander Hotels & Resorts . So I was pleased when Johnson accepted the invite to chat. Her story is one of obstacles overcome, my favorite type of profile to write. Her brand has a real shot at making its new DC property the scene-setting hotel in the national’s capital.

Justin Dawes, Travel Tech Reporter

The Case for Virtual Experiences Thriving Even as In-Person Travel Returns

The Backstory: I’m always impressed by entrepreneurs who see an opportunity and go for it. 

The three entrepreneurs highlighted in this article — one of my first as the new tech reporter for Skift — each saw an opportunity during the pandemic to help people travel virtually while they were stuck inside. 

Demand for virtual travel has faded in a lot of ways with the pandemic’s end, but their work uncovered a need that had gone overlooked until then. Their virtual travel businesses are still growing now, particularly in partnership with nursing homes for resident actives, schools for enhanced lessons, and workplaces as an employee benefit.   

The school partnerships resonates with me in particular because I come from a family in the Midwest that never traveled — and I mean never. I’ve done plenty of solo traveling over the years, but we didn’t leave my home state for a family trip until I was in my 20s, and that was only for a cousin’s wedding and then straight back home. I love travel now, of course, but I think if I had had some kind of virtual experience as a child, the travel bug would have bitten me a lot sooner.

Andrea Doyle, Senior Editor, Skift Meetings 

Events May Turn Away From States Where Abortion Is Now Illegal

The Backstory:  The U.S. Supreme Court’s seismic decision to strike down Roe v. Wade sent shock waves through the events industry. As a result, many planners vowed not to have gatherings in states with anti-abortion policies. 

The issue of abortion is contentious and sharply divides America.  The Pew Research Center  reports that 61 percent of U.S. adults say abortion should be legal in all or most cases, while 37 percent think abortion should be illegalin all or most cases.

The fact this decision took away a woman’s fundamental right infuriates me, but I had to stay objective in my reporting. I also had to keep my story focused on its impact on meetings and conventions.

I spoke to many meeting professionals, although only a few were willing to go on the record. One of them was Jack Molisani, executive director and owner of  LavaCon ; a conference focused on content strategists. He pulled his 2023 gathering from Austin as Texas has a trigger law that banned abortions once the Roe v. Wade ruling happened. Molisani pulled out of Texas even though there will be financial ramifications. “It is principle,” he said, adding that he never

thought he would be in a position to have to take a stand on abortion, but he saw no choice.

Industry insiders counter, saying boycotts are not the way to deal with this issue. Bringing a group in and meeting with local lawmakers is the way to make effective change.

This story is far from over, and I plan to continue covering it in 2023.

Dawit Habtemariam, Global Tourism Reporter

TikTok’s Short-Form Video Revolution Gains Traction in Search for Destination

The Backstory : The evolution of media is one of my favorite topics. Topics like on-demand streaming eating away at traditional TV’s dominance fascinate me and the rise and fall of radio broadcasting fascinate me. So it was also privilege to contribute to the conversation with this article on short-form videos changing how we find travel content.

But the article also caused me to flex my imagination of the future. It was a blast to interview insightful travel marketing executives, comb through TikTok videos and consider the creative possibilities destinations now have to stand out online.

I honestly didn’t know how much of an influence TikTok had on the media landscape until now. Thought it was just used by Zoomers. YouTube, Instagram and Google are basically trying to replicate TikTok’s success with short-form vertical videos. We really are in the midst of a media shift. Short-form videos are here to stay, and they may even become the primary source of information consumption in our lifetime. Matador Network CEO Ross Borden told me in an interview for the article that he expects short-form vertical video to be the most important format in the next five to ten years across all industries. That gave me the chills and made me think of The Buggle’s song “Video Killed the Radio Star. “

After working on this article, let’s just say I’ve started to take my own TikTok account seriously.

Peden Doma Bhutia, Asia Editor

Taj Mahal: A Wonder of the World in Peril

The Backstory : Being an India-based journalist in the travel space and writing a story on the Taj Mahal may sound like a cliche. But for precisely the same reason, the Taj isn’t just a monument to me. The deep dive on Taj Mahal was my attempt to highlight how this symbol of history and excellence in art and architecture could be drawn into the country’s divisive politics, and how that could take the sheen off its lustrous marble even more than the pollution it weathers every day.

The story was also challenging because an icon like the Taj comes with its own shroud of myth and misinformation, which I had to cut through. And of course, the trivia that I gathered while talking to people for the story made me appreciate the architectural marvel a little more.

Matthew Parsons, Corporate Travel Editor

Mastering the New Hidden Travel Networks

The Backstory: We tend to explore future trends at Skift, so it’s occasionally enjoyable to take a look back. I really enjoyed covering our Future of Lodging Forum in May this year, because of an almost throwaway remark from one of the speakers, Sam Khazary, senior vice president of global corporate development at Selina.

He made what I thought was a thought-provoking comment as he discussed routes being taken by digital nomads: “A lot of people in Israel spend a lot of time on the west coast of Panama. I have no idea why, it’s been like that the past 35 years.”

A remark like this sets off the imagination, and I’m convinced the conversation emerged as it was a real-life interaction, rather than a video interview, with great on-stage moderating from Seth Borko, Skift’s senior research analyst.

The result? My mind thought of the spice route that flowed through Asia, Africa, and Europe for hundreds of years.

And so writing this piece was a timely reminder that some things are just ingrained in history. Sure there’s probably billions of dollars invested in marketing technology, digital influencers and more. But we mustn’t ignore the fact that these sorts of pathways are going to be critical to the travel industry. We still have people fleeing the war in Ukraine , we have energy refugees , we have people escaping political turmoil , and unfortunately coming soon, climate migrants — those who are forced to leave their countries because of extreme weather.

The travel industry will always collide in some way with these new collectives and groupings, and has a chance to do so in a positive way. Writing this story brought that home to me.

Edward Russell, Editor, Airline Weekly

How Latin America Is the Future of the Airline Industry

The Backstory : Since the pandemic began, it was clear to me that the crisis was a watershed moment for airlines. The industry needed to change and, where government’s didn’t step in with aid, that change was likely to come through bankruptcies and consolidation. Hence I began following Avianca, Latam Airlines, and Aeromexico closely after they filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in quick succession in 2020.

Fast forward two years, and those bankruptcies have wrapped up but the Latin American industry is very much in the throes of consolidation. To go deep into what was happening, I traveled to the region’s preeminent regional industry event, the ALTA Leaders Forum, in Buenos Aires to speak to the CEOs of Latin American airlines. I’d described the sentiment as guardedly optimistic: Most spoke of surging travel demand but with high inflation and fuel prices making the need for consolidation, or other commercial partnerships, ever more important.

Viva Air CEO Felix Antelo, whose airline is struggling despite having opened air travel to the masses in Colombia, summed the situation up frankly: “Staying independent in aviation in the 2020s is not an option. It was hard pre-pandemic. It’s not an option now.” Indeed, without government aid — or with governments wishing to shed their obligations — many other airlines around the world now face a similar need to consolidate, from ITA Airways and TAP Air Portugal in Europe to SriLankan Airlines in Asia. Writing about how Latin America got there first was my reporting highlight of the year.

Miguel Neves, Editor-in-Chief, Skift Meetings

Meet Your Best Event Planning Resource: AI

The Backstory: Over the last five years, multiple event tech companies have used artificial intelligence (AI) in their platforms. However, while the claims are impressive, it was always hard to test the quality and the value of these uses of AI.

Cut to November 30, 2022, and  ChatGPT  was released and open to the public during a research review stage. Less than a week later, it had crossed the one million user mark, the  fastest technology  to ever do so.

News about the platform and its exciting uses appeared everywhere on social media, so I started testing it. Initially, I asked it several interesting general knowledge questions. Then, impressed with the answers, I tried to see if I could use it for planning meetings. Well, it turned out I could, so I started collating everything I asked it to do, all around the concept of planning a new conference about AI in the meetings industry.

ChatGPT created helpful resources around the conference concept, finding appropriate venues, marketing materials (including website copy and emails), sourcing speakers and sponsors, survey questions, and even shot lists for photographers and videographers.

In total, I shared 26 different outputs that, while not of award-winning quality, can be incredibly useful as solid bases for planning any meeting. 

This technological evolution is exciting for geeks like me and a little scary. But, It will be game-changing for so many people. It is one of those moments that does change everything, and I’m glad I was able to document it.

Have a confidential tip for Skift? Get in touch

Tags: artificial intelligence , events , latin america , puerto rico , taj mahal , tiktok

Photo credit: A Deep Dive about the uncertain future of the Taj Mahal was the favorite story of the year by its author, Asia Editor Peden Doma Bhutia. Rechitan Sorin / Adobe

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The best travel books of 2022

From the latest tales of a TV legend to inspiring fictional adventures, these are the top travel books to come out of 2022, and the perfect Christmas gift for the travel lover in your life…

Readers get 10% off all books marked with * by using the code ‘Wandering’ on the Stanfords website .

Wanderlust members can get 25% off all books marked with * on the Stanfords website – or 15% off any other items on their website; click here to get the code.

Distant Melodies: Music in Search of Home *

By Edward Dusinberre

Combining travel writing with insights into the working lives of string-quartet musicians, Dusinberre illuminates the relationship between music and home by discovering ways in which the former tweaks our longing for a place of one’s own. And when travel is forbidden, he finds the ability of music to affirm home and transcend distance takes on extra significance.

Antarctica: A History in 100 Objects

By Jean De Pomereu and Daniella McCahey

This book retraces the history of Antarctica through fascinating objects drawn from collections across the world. It has been published to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the first crossing into the Antarctic Circle by James Cook aboard the ship Resolution, on 17 January 1773. As such, it presents a gloriously visual history of the White Continent, from Terra Incognita to the expeditions of Shackleton and Scott, to its emergence as the frontline of climate change.

brother. do. you. love. me. *

By Mani Coe & Reuben Coe

Reuben is living in a home, struggling to accept that he has Down’s syndrome, when he sends the titular text message to his brother, Mani, who lives in Spain. Mani returns to England and moves the pair into a farm cottage, rebuilding their relationship through walks in the area in what is a moving paean to brotherhood.

Everything the Light Touches *

By Janice Pariat

A wonderful example of fiction with a strong sense of place. This book journeys across continents as the centuries intertwine in a multi-layered saga that unfolds through the lives of four unique characters, taking us to Italy, India’s north-east and the forests of the lower Himalaya on journeys that change the lives of its protagonists forever.

Parsi: From Persia to Bombay – Recipes & Tales from the Ancient Culture *

By Farokh Talati

Farokh Talati, head chef of London’s acclaimed Spitalfields eatery St John Bread and Wine, gathers recipes from his travels through India and time spent in the kitchen with family. Blending Persian and Indian cooking from west London all the way to Gujarat and beyond, his life is told through recipes, stories and photographs in what becomes something of a love letter to the Parsi culture and people.

Atlas of Geographical Curiosities *

By Vitali Vitaliev

This compendium of curious, interesting, unexpected and downright bizarre geographical anomalies is filled with fun tidbits to reel off to friends. The world is full of little-known corners that have often been the result of diplomatic horse-trading or overly ambitious armies. Discover countries that do not really exist, the world’s only town that lies entirely underground, a hotel room whose bedroom is in France and whose bathroom is in Switzerland, and lots more.

36 Islands: In Search of the Hidden Wonders of the Lake District *

By Robert Twigger

Armed only with an inflatable canoe, Twigger – a man resolutely fascinated by uninhabited isles – journeys beyond the tourists and busy roads to explore Cumbria’s finest. In doing so, he visits both real and remembered islands, drawing inspiration from the Lakeland poets, Alfred Wainwright and others, to redraw his own map of the Lakes and visit a place very different to the one we know.

The Last Overland *

By Alex Bescoby Crossing 23 countries on the mother of all road trips, filmmaker Alex Bescoby recreates a journey originally documented in the mid-1950s, when a group of students drove for the first time from London to Singapore in a pair of Land Rovers. The aim here is to do it all in reverse (not literally), as the author seeks to return one of the original vehicles home, bookending one of the great overland adventures of the last century in buccaneering fashion.

Landlines *

By Raynor Winn Raynor Winn knows the health of her husband is declining, so they set off on another healing walk in what is a sequel of sorts to her last book, The Salt Path. Together, they embark on a 1,600km journey from Scotland to the familiar shores of the South West Coast Path, through Northumberland, the North York Moors and Wales. Each step is recorded in luminous prose as she greets strangers and friends, wildlife and wilderness along the way.

The Writer’s Journey *

By Travis Elborough When writers step outside of their familiar surroundings, special things can often happen, as this collection charting the 35 routes that changed the lives and legacies of some literary giants, from Charles Dickens to Herman Melville, adroitly shows.

By Sarah Malik Safar is the Urdu and Arabic word for ‘journey’. Through a series of interviews with Muslim women from different backgrounds, Sarah Malik delves into the emotional and spiritual aspects of travel with often moving results.

Into Iraq *

By Michael Palin In the literary companion to his latest TV series, Palin tracks the River Tigris through Iraq to get a sense of what life is like now in a region that was once the cradle of civilisation but has suffered greatly. There are plenty of patches of light amid the gloom, as the author’s warmth and humour shines through in a vivid portrait of a complex country.

Read next Wanderlust’s exclusive interview with Michael Palin on Iraq

Britain’s Best Bike Ride *

By Hannah Reynolds & John Walsh

There are multiple ways to cycle from Land’s End to John O’ Groats, and the route created for this book takes inspiration from just how many there are, highlighting the myriad quiet roads, quaint villages and wild landscapes along the way that are worth detouring for. The result is a wonderfully illustrated guide that puts the choice in your hands.

Endurance *

By Levison Wood

In this engaging anthology, explorer and Edward Stanford Travel Writing Award-winner Levison Wood gathers 100 accounts of human endurance throughout history. Packed full of you-couldn’t-make-it-up stories and adventures, he finds plenty of meat in the enduring nature of the human spirit and the physical determination that it sometimes takes to achieve one’s goals.

Bridges of the World *

By Giancarlo Ascari & Pia Valentinis

Throughout history, bridges have been used as a way to link people, places and cultures. This collection of stories uses its subject matter as a jumping-off point to explore legends, anecdotes and the inspirational lives of those who designed, built and crossed some of the greatest bridges of the world.

Tourists: How the British Went Abroad to Find Themselves

By Lucy Lethbridge A fascinating study of the emergence of the UK’s travel industry, from the end of the Napoleonic Wars through to the package holiday boom and on to the Instagram era, taking in tour guides and guide books along the way. Lethbridge casts a canny, sharp eye on the British traveller’s often-misguided perceptions of both themselves and their hosts.

My Family and Other Enemies

By Mary Novakovich

Part-travelogue, part-memoir, Mary Novakovich focuses on the relatively little-known Lika region in central Croatia as the battleground for exploring her own complicated relationship with the country and her family’s roots. As she visits and revisits her relatives over the years, she crafts a moving, living portrait of the landscape, the people who inhabit it and the culture and history surrounding them.

By Erika Fatland

Having established herself as one of travel writing’s rising stars with Sovietstan and Border, Erika Fatland ascends to new heights with her fascinating journey among the isolated villages spanning the fractious borders that divide up the Himalaya region. Expect a collision of religion, history, tradition and politics at the roof of the world.

The Draw of the Sea

By Wyl Menmuir What is it about the water that calls us back to it? Using Cornwall and its communities as his muse, author Wyl Menmuir poetically explores our fascination with and dependence on the sea. He talks to fishermen, beachcombers, surfers and other locals about living their lives by the tides, and explores his own personal emotional connection to the water.

Island to Island: From Somerset to Seychelles

By Sally Mills

Isolated, with neither electricity nor running water yet teeming with rare species, Aride Island in the Seychelles is the stuff of Robinson Crusoe-esque dreams. It was certainly enticing enough to lure conservationist Sally Mills and her husband to take a job there. This account of their 20-month experience managing the Aride Island Nature Reserve is a blend of wondrous wildlife and hard decisions, as they try to bridge the vast culture gap with the local rangers.

Taverna by the Sea: One Greek Island Summer

By Jennifer Barclay

More than one traveller has dreamt of spending the summer working at a bar overlooking the Aegean. For her latest intimate insight into Greek island life and culture, Jennifer Barclay does just that, finding herself serving customers and fending off vicious competition at the titular taverna in the old village of Olympos on the Dodecanese island of Karpathos.

The Raven’s Nest

By Sarah Thomas

The otherworldly scenery of Iceland seems to capture most visitors’ imaginations, but Sarah Thomas fell hard for its rugged charms – and a local, too – and quickly decamped to the island. While her marriage plays out in the background, the book details Thomas’ growing connection to and understanding of that extraordinary landscape and the people and wildlife that call it home.

Read next Wanderlust: Off the Page – the brand new travel podcast

Zero Altitude: How I Learned to Fly Less and Travel More

By Helen Coffey It’s no secret that travel has a flying issue, but can we really avoid it and the environmental harm it does? Yes, reckons Helen Coffey, whose book explores flight-free science and thinking with her on-the-road attempts to put it into practice. The opportunities that open up for adventure are encouraging.

Along the Amber Route

By CJ Schüler Now out in paperback, CJ Schüler’s acclaimed – and timely – account of following the millennia-old trade route of those supplying amber to high-end customers takes him from St Petersburg down to Venice, tracing a history of Central European progress and suffering along the way.

Wild Places

By Sarah Baxter

The draw of the wild – the remote, the untamed, the inhospitable, the bizarre – has long spurred travellers forward. Here long-standing Wanderlust contributor Sarah Baxter collects 25 raw areas to visit, from UK spots like Ennerdale, St Kilda and Strumble Head to Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest and New Zealand’s Te Wāhipounamu, all colourfully illustrated by Amy Grimes.

By Leonie Charlton

A paperback release for those who missed Leonie Charlton’s beautifully written memoir about pony trekking in the Outer Hebrides first time around. The journey serves as a cathartic expedition for the grieving writer – but also a great sketch of one of the UK’s wildernesses.

Shape of a Boy

By Kate Wickers

Becoming a parent has put paid to many a traveller’s ambitions. Not Kate Wickers, who relays her family’s misadventures in the likes of Japan, Cuba and Borneo and what she found out on her journeys – usually learned the hard way, and often the funniest way too.

A Trip of One’s Own

By Kate Wills

After her marriage falls apart within a year, journalist Kate Wills takes inspiration from a litany of female travellers and writers throughout history – from Emily Hahn to Gertrude Bell, to Virginia Woolf – to experience the world on her own terms. This memoir recounts her solo journeys and collects plenty of tips for travellers. Now out in paperback.

From the Cliffs of Cornwall to Kilimanjaro

By Eric Marks

Eric Marks, a sprightly 75-year-old, has an ambition to join his nephew and climb Africa’s highest peak. But before he can get to Tanzania, Marks needs to get into trekking shape. This is how he finds himself tackling large northern sections of the South East Coast Path – from Minehead to St Just – where he picks up a taste for walking and meets plenty of characters along the way.

Lost Lanes Central

By Jack Thurston

With many post-pandemic cyclists continuing to enjoy the delights of home, you can avoid the crush of the pack with this guide to 36 routes of varying ability in the under-appreciated Midlands and beyond, taking in the likes of Lincolnshire, Shropshire, the Peaks and the Lakes.

The Slow Road to Tehran

By Rebecca Lowe

Figuring that the best way to discover the truth about a place is to experience it yourself, Rebecca Lowe grabbed her bicycle to wind 11,000km through the Middle East. Taking her from Europe to Iran via Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt, Sudan and the Gulf, the novice cyclist’s oft-punctured journey allows her to see the human faces behind the headlines. Illuminating, gripping and often funny.

The Green Traveller

By Richard Hammond

It’s something of an understatement to say that green considerations are a major concern for travellers and tour operators alike these days. It’s certainly a reality that the founder of greentraveller.co.uk, Richard Hammond (not the guy from Top Gear), takes very seriously. Here he provides handy tips on helping you plan an eco-conscious trip, including ways to see through “greenwashing” and how to be a more thoughtful visitor, as well as lists for destination inspiration.

The Saviour Fish: Life and Death on Africa’s Greatest Lake

By Mark Weston

Once one of the most biodiverse places on the planet, Lake Victoria and the communities that rely on it are grappling with the devastating results of climate change. Mark Weston goes to live on an island on the Tanzanian side of the lake, and paints a vivid picture of a way of life under man-made threat.

Wanderlust Himalaya

Edited by Cam Honan

Get a widescreen dose of trekking inspiration with this glossy guide that’s part coffee-table read, part practical advice. Taking you through Nepal, Bhutan, India, Tibet and Pakistan via maps, alternative itineraries and tips from those who have done it, this book will still look sharp on your shelf while you’re out wandering the roof of the world.

Walking with Nomads

By Alice Morrison

Adventurer Alice Morrison’s passion for her adopted homeland of Morocco takes her on three expeditions across it, centred on the Draa River, the Sahara and the Atlas mountains. But she doesn’t just shine a fascinating, intimate light on the life and culture outside of the cities – as well as on the sex lives of camels – but also the threat that climate change poses to this already challenging landscape.

By Simon Parker

People travel for all sorts of reasons. In Simon Parker’s case, it’s to heal. With a close friend dying and COVID-19 looming large – sparking a suppressed anxiety disorder – he sets off on a 5,500km journey around Britain on a bicycle. Along the way he discovers a new sense of hope and optimism, not just in himself but in a country blearily emerging from lockdown.

Galapagos Crusoes: A Year Alone with the Birds

By Bryan & June Nelson

Imagine spending a whole year on the Galápagos Islands. The late zoologist Bryan Nelson’s 1968 ornithological classic gets updated with the input of his wife, June. Having undertaken the isolated, wild study with him, she further fleshes out the experience of living alone (and often roughly) in this wildlife paradise.

The Architectural Guides

A good way to truly understand a country is through its architecture, revealing the true history of culture, politics and economics than underpin it. DOM publishers’ The Architectural Guides don’t just provide an excellently curated list of the most intriguing buildings in a destination for visitors to seek out, but also the context behind their construction and ideas they represent. Successfully combining DOM publishers’ joint passion for architecture and high-quality books, the 150-strong series is not only one of the best on-to-go travel guides to appreciate some more off-the-beaten track destinations – including Bishkek, Iran, Kabul, Kazakhstan, Minsk, Sofia, Tunis and the UAE – but beautifully constructed enough to simply inspire armchair travellers at home. You can find the full catalogue at dom-publishers.com .

The Best British Travel Writing of the 21st Century Edited by Jessica Vincent

The Best British Travel Writing of the 21st Century

Edited by Jessica Vincent

The best travel writing inspires and educates at the same time. Collecting together 30 of the best travel stories of the last two decades, this book doesn’t just send us around the world, but brings it a little closer to us too. And obviously Wanderlust is featured in it!

Crossed off the Map By Shafik Meghji

Crossed off the Map

By Shafik Meghji

Wanderlust contributor and South America expert Shafik’s new title uses a mix of travel writing, history and reportage to tell the story of Bolivia – how its impressive influence helped shape the world, and how its people are responding to the modern world.

Great Escapes: Alps

Europe’s big mountains are gaining travellers’ attention, especially out of ski season. This coffee table book reveals the most picturesque places to stay – historic inns, monasteries, mountain huts, palazzi, even a youth hostel – balancing the accommodation imagery with the widescreen scenery.

How to Become a Professional Travel Writer By Mark Eveleigh & Narina Exelby

How to Become a Professional Travel Writer

By Mark Eveleigh & Narina Exelby

Fancy becoming the next Paul Theroux? This handy title breaks down the practical realities of becoming a proper ‘getting paid’ travel journalist – how to pitch, how to get on press trips, how to balance the books and, of course, tips on actually writing the pieces.

Black Lion By Sicelo Mbatha

By Sicelo Mbatha

The moving, inspirational tale of how Sicelo Mbatha was irresistibly drawn to becoming a guide in South Africa’s Imfolozi Nature Reserve, shaking off a childhood trauma and instead forging an astonishing spiritual connection to the wilderness.

Shadowlands: A Journey Through Lost Britain By Matthew Green

Shadowlands: A Journey Through Lost Britain

By Matthew Green

Historian Green goes on a moving journey across Britain to find the ghosts of places that found themselves lost – whether through disaster or mis-deed – telling the disappeared occupants’ long unheard stories.

Epic Train Journeys By Monisha Rajesh

Epic Train Journeys

By Monisha Rajesh

Mixing the spectacular with a good selection of the niche and little-known, the 40 journeys is this well-presented photobook take you from the Andean Explorer in Peru through to The Ghan in Australia.

Life Lessons From the Amazon by Pip Stewart

Life Lessons From the Amazon

By Pip Stewart

Following her gruelling world’s-first 1,014km journey following Guyana’s Essequibo River from source to sea, Pip Stewart bring home with her a lot of life lessons and a flesh-eating disease. In this absorbing read, she shares the story of her encounters with caiman, jaguars and the indigenous Waî Waî community – and the life-changing perspectives that the experience gave her.

More armchair travel

The best travel podcasts you need to listen to, the best travel books of 2021, 5 amazing virtual tours we love.

World Tourism Day: How our privilege to travel can be a force for good

How to spend three days in Philadelphia

5 must-visit maritime museums in Europe

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8 Best Travel Books From 2022

“That’s the place to get to—nowhere. One wants to wander away from the world’s somewheres, into our own nowhere.”

For many, 2022 was the year to get back out and see the world. With all the delays and disruptions caused by the pandemic thankfully coming (largely) to a close, people finally got the wanderlust bug and a real to tick some places off their travel bucket list. Some of the best travel writers were also on hand to help these travellers out with some breathtaking reads aimed at capturing the stunning variety of locations we have across the planet. Join us here at What We Reading as we take a look through 8 of the best travel books from 2022. 

The Catch Me If You Can: One Woman’s Journey to Every Country in the World – Jessica Nabongo

Jessica Nabongo is the first recorded woman in history to travel to every country on the planet, and her 2022 travel book, The Catch Me if You Can is her intimate recounting of how she visited 195 different nations. 

A stunning achievement that she completed back in 2019, Nabongo’s personal memoir sees her go into detail about the inspiration behind her journey, and recount some scarcely-believable tales from her 100 favourite destinations. From Norway , North Korea, to Nauru, The Catch Me If You Can is an inspiring story perfect for fuelling those armchair travellers with a real wanderlust craving . 

Check Out The Best Travel Books From 2024

Walking With Nomads – Alice Morrison

TV presenter and all-around adventurer Alice Morrison whisks readers off on a stunning and thought-provoking trek across three of the Earth’s most stunning locations in Walking With Nomads . 

In what is one of the best travel books from 2022, Morrison details her journeys across Morocco, the Sahara and the Atlas Mountains, accompanied only by three Muslim guides and their camel companions. From unearthing giant dinosaur footprints to deadly vipers and active minefields, Walking With Nomads is a resource that tackles the conservative social norms in the region, as well as the growing imprints left in the wake of climate change. 

Zero Altitude: How I Learned to Fly Less and Travel More – Helen Coffey

With the potentially irreversible threats climate change is having on our planet, travellers have had to weigh up how they can see more of the world sustainably. Private jets and short-distance flights have become two of the hotly-discussed aspects of this, and it is that point journalist Helen Coffey taps into in Zero Altitude . 

Following her on her journey to trek as far as possible without ever taking a flight, Coffey utilises foot, car, boat, bike and train and meets with climate change experts and activists at the frontlines of the flight-free movement .   

Into Iraq – Michael Palin 

Iraq is nestled in a geographical region known as ‘the cradle of civilisation’. In Into Iraq , Michael Palin takes readers on a journey through this extraordinary part of the world, examining how this once-advanced and blossoming state has been ravaged by decades of warfare and violence. 

But whilst the graffiti-strewn sewers underneath Saddam Hussein’s palaces and the war-torn suburbs of Mosul paint their own pictures, Palin’s trademark warmth and humour still find a way of delivering moments of hope for the future. From New Year celebrations in Akre to poetry reading in Baghdad, Into Iraq really is a stunning read. 

Imagine A City: A Pilot’s Journey Across the Urban World – Mark Vanhoenacker

Named a Financial Times Best Summer Book of 2022, Imagine a City is the unique love letter to the world’s biggest urban metropolises from Mark Vanhoenacker. An airline pilot for over two decades, Vanhoenacker often dreamt of wondrous cities far away across the globe, and his occupation has allowed him to see some of the world’s most famous places in a wholly unique way. 

Often only stopping in a place for the briefest of spells month after month and year after year, Imagine a City offers readers a travel memoir from a perspective few others can boast. 

Shape Of A Boy: Family Life Lessons in Far Flung Places – Kate Wickers

Shape of a Boy is the laugh-out-loud travel memoir from seasoned writer Kate Wickers. In one of the best memoirs from 2022, Wickers lives out her longstanding motto of ‘have kids, will travel’ by detailing her travels across the Far East with her young family. 

From Thailand , Malaysia all the way to Japan, Wickers’ novel is for the parents and carers itching to see the world beyond the ‘safe’ all-inclusives most are relegated to when it comes to planning a trip. 

SOLO – Jenny Tough

Six continents and 4,582 km across some of the most treacherous and demanding locations on the planet – SOLO is the story behind one of the astounding achievements from Jenny Tough. 

Setting out with the aim of running across six different mountain ranges across six different continents: the Tien Shan, the High Atlas, the Bolivian Andes, the Southern Alps, the Canadian Rockies & the Transylvanian Alps, SOLO is a journey of immense determination and discovery completed over five years. It is easily one of the most inspiring real-life adventure books from 2022, told in stunning detail by Tough.

Part-time reader, part-time rambler, and full-time Horror enthusiast, James has been writing for What We Reading since 2022. His earliest reading memories involved Historical Fiction, Fantasy and Horror tales, which he has continued to take with him to this day. James’ favourite books include The Last (Hanna Jameson), The Troop (Nick Cutter) and Chasing The Boogeyman (Richard Chizmar).

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As a new year begins, we're excited to shine a light on our Best in Travel 2022 list.

The top 10 cities, countries and regions around the world were carefully selected by our editors to inspire a new year of travel.

Now we're unveiling a whole new series of stories, video interviews, and tips for turning our Best in Travel list into your travel reality, whether that happens in 2022 or further down the line.

These destinations span the globe and allow you, the traveler, to immerse yourself in local culture.

Our how-to guides will show you how to make the most of your trip with tips on how you can have a positive impact on your destination.

Find out how you can sustainably trek to Everest Base Camp, enjoy a stargazer's guide to Chile's Atacama desert, and follow an insider's guide to Nigeria's city that never sleeps: Lagos.

As the pandemic continues to impact an ever-shifting patchwork of places around the world, we're working hard to balance travel and safety, and a sense of caution alongside our sense of wanderlust.

As such, our 2022 list is as much a bucket list for the future as it is a to-visit list for right now.

See the full list here.

• Great Stories
• Learn about the Solas Awards for the best travel stories of the year
• Read some of the best travel writing today
• Here's how to enter the competition for cash awards and publication
• Discover new writers and great reads with Travelers’ Tales books

Award Winners 2022

Sixteenth Annual Solas Awards Winners

Announced March 30, 2022

Grand Prize for Best Travel Story of the Year

Gold ($1000) Boots Bilong Mi by Patrick Ritter

Silver ($750) Honor and the Sea by Janna Brancolini

Bronze ($500) The Shakeout Trip by Robert Dale Fama ____________________________________________________________

Category Award Winners

Adventure Travel The best story of high adventure, danger, or physical challenge Gold: Travels in Terra Incognita by Masha Nordbye Silver: Imprisoned in La Paz by Emma Morrell Bronze: Tschiffley’s Epic Equestrian Ride by Mark Walker

Animal Encounter The best account of meeting snakes, elephants, rhinos, gorillas, birds, or other creatures Gold: Into the Swarm by Lisa Boice Silver: The Wisdom in the Water by James Dorsey Bronze: What I Learned from the Octopus by MJ Pramik

Bad Trip The best account of when things go wrong, or the shadow side of a culture or individual Gold: Revenge of the Saguaro by Tom Miller Silver: Carbonized by Kathleen Spivack Bronze: Escaping Death Valley by Lisa O’Kane

Cruise Story The best account of a trip on the water in any vessel, from the smallest kayak to the largest ship Gold: In Search of Terra Australis by Masha Nordbye Silver: Lost at Sea by Carmen Bellos Bronze: The Day Doug Fell Overboard by Marina Brown

Culture and Ideas The best story or essay about how art, history, currents events, fashion, or music affected a traveler or a trip Gold: Exploding Valencia by Lenore Greiner Silver: Blue in Toulouse by Moriah Costa Bronze: The Cross by Tania Amochaev

Destination Story The best story about a place that captures its essence and reveals its attractions, making the reader want to go there Gold: Orson, Me, and Our Hilltop Captor by Sue Maccia Silver: Pilgrimage to the Ice Continent by MJ Pramik Bronze: The Quetzals Are Still Soaring by Ying Xiong

Doing Good or the Kindness of Strangers The most inspiring tale of aid, comfort, philanthropy, or caring for others in faraway places, or of being the recipient of a stranger’s largesse Gold: Light and Love by Tania Amochaev Silver: Mongolian Disco by MJ Pramik Bronze: Journey to Zenzellma by Kris Fricke

Elder Travel The best story from a traveler 65 years of age or older Gold: I Am Zhyd by Russell Frank Silver: Searching for the Light by James Dorsey Bronze: On the Paralia by Russell Frank

Family Travel The best story about traveling with family of all generations, including grandparents, parents, children, cousins, siblings or journeying to discover roots Gold: Lunigiana by George Tonelli Silver: Storyteller by Rebecca Eckland Bronze: Shifting Sands by Emma Morrell

Funny Travel The funniest account of a misadventure or an essay about how the world can make us laugh at ourselves and those around us Gold: La Placa by Barbara Ridley Silver: When You Gotta Go: a Lesson from a Spanish Pilgrimage by Nicolle Goldman Bronze: It’s Not a Cruise, It’s a Crossing by Bill Brown

Love Story The best account of love or romance on the road Gold: Pair Bond by Lisa Boice Silver: The Kingdom of Nobody by Amanda Summer Bronze: Free Fall in Central America by Diane LeBow

Men’s Travel  The best account by a man of a testosterone-fueled encounter or experience on the road Gold: Journey with an Amazonian Shaman by Johnny Motley Silver: Eroded Myths by Robert Annis Bronze: No Pasa Nada by Jonathan Rice

Most Unforgettable Character  The story that best captures how one individual or group of people affected a traveler in a meaningful way Gold: Making the Butterflies Dance by James Dorsey Silver: Mud and Lotus Flowers by Lenore Greiner Bronze: A Journey of Secrets by Rosie Cohan

Travel and Food The best story where food or drink plays a role in introducing the traveler to a foreign culture or new friends Gold: USA vs USA by Eva Sandoval Silver: The Truffle Hunt by Susan Van Allen Bronze: The Alchemy That Binds by Cecilia Lee

Travel and Healing The best story about visits with shamans, healers, holy men and women, or holy sites in search of a cure for illness or psychological malady Gold: The Fat Ladies of Malta by Laurie King Silver: Park of the Fallen Heroes by Laurie King Bronze: Plan Be by Lisa Boice

Travel and Shopping The best account of a shopping, bargaining, or haggling experience in a market, bazaar, outlet, or mall, anywhere in the world Gold: A Voyeur in Libya by Laurie King Silver: Can a Picture of a Cake Taste Like a Cake? by John Kachuba Bronze: Make it Spicy by Emma Morrell

Travel and Sports The best account of a sports activity while traveling, such as climbing, rafting, sailing, trekking, swimming,    kayaking, canoeing, fishing, skiing, baseball, Frisbee, polo, basketball Gold: Riding Out by Julia Booth Silver: The Perfect Run by Jack Bernard Bronze: The Place of Lost Lows and Found Highs by Karen Wertheim

Travel and Transformation The best story about the inner journey or pilgrimage, whether religious, mystical, psychological, or emotional Gold: The House of Transfiguration by Dianne Cheseldine Silver: Baker Beach by Tania Amochaev Bronze: Spark of Hope by Michele Bigley

Travel Memoir The best story that draws heavily on the writer’s past to make a point or reveal the lessons of a lifetime Gold: The Medusa of Time by Daniel Hudon Silver: Target Bird by Lisa Boice Bronze: A Furious Angel by Tania Amochaev

Women’s Travel The best account by a woman of an encounter or experience on the road Gold: Strange Birds by Andrea Eldridge Silver: Bright Blossom of the Pacific by Linda Ballou Bronze: True Stories by Kathleen Spivak

Young Traveler  The best story from a young person (aged 18-25 at the time of writing) taking time off to travel between high school and college, or during breaks Gold: An Ireland Travel Log: At a Snail’s Pace by Mellisa Pascale Silver: no award Bronze: no award

______________________________________________________________________________

Honorable Mention

Homage to Lady Gregory by David Hopes Mayflower Memories by Laurie King The Call of the Nightjar by Laurie King Wash and Go and the Stupid Watch by Kevin McCaughey No Dog Is an Island by Richard Pallardy Turkey’s Unique Hand-Sanitizing Methog by Jenna Scatena Social Distance by Jodie Vinson The Prophecy by Russell Working

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Travel Stories: Our 25 Most Read Travel Stories From 2022

Travel News & Books: This year brought exciting firsts and inspiring stories from our team of amazing travel writers, causing our bucket lists to double in length — again.

Travel content curator Lassi Pensikkala: “I search and select for you interesting, relevant, and helpful travel-related articles from the international and trustworthy press. As a content curator, my job is to collect useful data with high value and a human touch for my readers and to bring everything together in one place.”

Lassi Pensikkala, Travel Influencer and Entrepreneur, has studied Economics, Psychology, and Sociology at the University of Hamburg, and graduated with a Master of Science in Economics MSc(Econ). He is multilingual, speaking English, Spanish, German, Swedish, and Finnish, and is the founder of AmerExperience.com/TB: “I keep my readers up to date with news that interests them and is important to them. This article Travel Stories: Our 25 Most Read Travel Stories From 2022 is worth reading – I recommend it to you.”  

The original story Travel Stories: Our 25 Most Read Travel Stories From 2022 in TravelAwaits

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By Economist Lassi Pensikkala - International and cross-cultural news writer: Business, Travel, and Golf

Lassi Pensikkala is the creator of AmerExperience.com. He writes regularly providing thought leadership on topics related to Travel, Golf, and International Cross-cultural Business. You can follow him on Telegram or connect on Linkedin. You can read his travel, business and golf news in Google News, Flipboard, and Social media. Expertise: International Travel and Business Expert, Creator of AmerExperience.com and Avid Golfer - Education: Studied Foreign Trade in Business College of Turku Finland, and Economy, Psychology and Sociology at the University of Hamburg graduated as MSc(Econ) - Language skills: Multilingual - English, German, Spanish, Swedish and Finnish - Life philosophy: “Live freely, seek knowledge, and be open to the richness of life’s experiences.” Lassi Pensikkala, hailing from Finland, has devoted four decades to living abroad. His curiosity to learn about other countries, cultures, and languages began at a very young age. The late 1950s and the '60s marked the golden era of Rock'n Roll, student movements, and the first moon landing. Nordic people enjoyed the freedom to travel seamlessly among Scandinavian countries, including Finland, without the need for passports. This enduring sense of freedom remains paramount for Scandinavians today. True freedom involves exploring, learning about new countries and languages, and connecting with diverse people. -

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2022's Top Travel Stories, According to Frommer's Readers

By Zac Thompson

12/22/2022, 4:45 PM

In 2022, Covid-19 finally loosened its grip on the world.

Our site stats reflect that (beyond) welcome development: Of the year's 10 most viewed pages here at Frommers.com, just one has to do with the pandemic. 

Compare that with 2021 , when Covid content hogged half of the spots on the list. 

That high-ranking 2022 article (#4 in popularity for the year) suggested we were at last on the mend and ready to get back on the road. Published in January, the how-to outlines the documentation formerly needed to prove you had recently recovered from the virus so that you didn't have to take yet another test. Those requirements have since been dropped pretty much everywhere.

But the easing of the pandemic didn't mean all was smooth sailing—or, more to the point, smooth soaring.

Air travel was the topic that generated the most traffic around here over all, and the long airport security lines, flight disruptions, and surging airline ticket prices caused this year by understaffing and inflation likely account for the large numbers of readers joining us to kvetch about the USA's worst airports (2022's second-most popular story), find ways to skip long TSA queues (in fifth place), and get the timing right on airfare purchases to save money (10th). 

Speaking of the challenges of sticking to a reasonable vacation budget in 2022, the year's #1 most-read story likewise involves inflated prices, though these are at Disney parks, where costs have been trending skyward since long before our current economic situation. In the piece (posted in February), Frommer's editor-in-chief and our resident Orlando expert Jason Cochran examined the growing discontent of Disney die-hards who are dismayed by the company's curious strategy of letting the quality of the company's theme parks decline while hiking up prices at every opportunity. 

Though nowhere near as steep as admission to the Magic Kingdom, the European Union is set to establish an entry fee of its own in autumn 2023, when travelers to the continent will need to register ahead of time with the soon-to-launch European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). Our primer on what we know about the system so far ranked third on our most-visited list.

Should you need to come up with a way to finance all these ever-ballooning costs, we cannot recommend following the example that a lawsuit alleges was set by influencer Cassie De Pecol. Consumer protection nonprofit Travelers United sued the onetime Naked and Afraid contestant for claiming to have been the first woman to visit every country.

Travelers United accused De Pecol of lying about that and other things in order to get lucrative sponsorship deals for her social media posts. In April  Frommer's reported on the false-advertising lawsuit ; readers made the story our eighth most popular of the year.

In an update sent to Frommer's via email, Travelers United counsel Lauren Wolfe tells us the first court date in the case is coming up in January 2023. To get more information on the lawsuit against De Pecol and access case documents, visit the page on Travelers United's website dedicated to the matter . 

Incidentally, if you're looking for an alternative to the unquestioned hype and (allegedly) dodgy claims of certain travel influencers, you can always count on Frommer's, where we're on a 65-year streak of being truthful about travel as well as trustworthy and never on the take.

The 10 Most Popular Frommer's Stories Published in 2022

1. Disney Raises Prices Again! Even Die-Hard Fans Now Turning Against Poor Quality (published February 17)

2. The 10 Worst Airports in the U.S. (January 14)

3. What to Know About Europe’s New Entry Requirement—and Entry Fee—Coming in 2023 (November 5)

4. How to Get Proof of Recovery from Covid-19 for Travel (January 13)

5. How to Skip Long TSA Lines for Free—Without TSA PreCheck (May 31)

6. New Nonstop Flights Put This Quiet Caribbean Paradise Within Easier Reach (January 31)

7. Florida Gov. DeSantis Voided a Vote in Key West, but Cruises Are Respecting It Anyway (January 17)

8. Travel Influencer Sued for Telling “Increasingly Bold Lies” to Build Her Brand (April 14)

9. Car Renters Force Customers to Bring Fuel Receipts—but It’s Not Always in the Contract (April 8)

10. New Study of Millions of Airfares Reveals the Best Days to Purchase and to Fly (October 19)

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The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2022

From far-flung destinations to hometown favorites, 2022 is the year to get back out there and turn your dream trips into reality.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

Planning new adventures as a new year approaches is always a thrill, but finding the best places to visit in 2022 is unique. After two years of border closures, cruise cancellations, and travel restrictions galore , 2022 is the year we hope to get back out there, uninhibited (albeit vaccinated and COVID tested ), return to our favorite destinations, and cross new ones off our lists.

Though the hospitality industry was hit hard by the pandemic, many properties used the forced downtime to renovate rooms, add new amenities, and expand outdoor spaces to offer even more once guests return. 2022 is when many travelers will venture further from home, and even overseas, for the first time since the start of the pandemic, finally reaping the benefits of these valiant efforts.

Although COVID variants remain, regulations are still evolving, and precautions must still be taken, many of the destinations we chose for 2022 offer what we believe travelers are looking for in a post-pandemic world, from hotels with private accommodations to destinations teeming with fresh-air activities . Others, like Las Vegas, are for those who are ready and raring to make up for all the social time they missed — with a few splashy headliners, including Adele and the Raiders, thrown in for good measure.

As cruising makes its comeback , we included unforgettable places to see by water, from Antarctica to the Nile, and as hard-hit destinations like Italy and Asia recover, we found the buzziest reasons to return. Of course we didn't forget about all the stateside gems we got to know while domestic travel was surging, from Alaska and California to Florida and Michigan.

Our 2022 list, organized alphabetically, doesn't hold back, with aspirational trips as far away as India, Mozambique, Qatar, and even space — but we're also including hometown favorites, like Walt Disney World and its new Star Wars hotel ; the wellness retreats of beautiful Sedona; and the simple pleasures of small-town, farm-to-table living in Franklin, Tennessee. Because no matter what type of trip you've been dreaming of, we want to help you turn 2022 into the year you get back out there and make it a reality.

— Edited by Nina Ruggiero and Scott Bay

1. Abruzzo, Italy

Stretching from the heart of the Apennines to the Adriatic Sea on the peninsula's southeastern side, Abruzzo, Italy has long been one of the country's most overlooked destinations despite its unspoiled villages, picturesque Trabocchi Coast, and stunning natural escapes. Over the past few years, however, it has gone from a sleepy underdog to an ambitious harbinger of slow travel, sustainable gastronomy, and conscious hospitality. Villa Corallo , a 19th-century mansion near Civitella del Tronto was transformed into a five-star hotel in 2019. Dimore Montane , an eco-lodge opened in 2020 in Majella National Park, marries glamping with environmentally-friendly facilities with a zero waste policy. Meanwhile, restaurants like Bottega Culinaria in San Vito Chietino and Materia Prima in Castel di Sangro are redefining the region as one of Italy's most exciting food hotspots for their innovative and sustainable takes on local produce and traditional dishes (in case Niko Romito's three-Michelin-starred Reale wasn't enough). And completing construction this Spring is Via Verde dei Trabocchi: a cycling and pedestrian path along the Adriatic sea that's being built on a disused railway route. — Marianna Cerini

With many international borders closed over the last two years, many eager U.S. travelers' eyes turned to Alaska. The vast state, famous for its towering, snow-capped peaks, pristine wilderness, massive national parks, and colorful locals, made for a dynamic destination with no passport required. But as borders reopen, interest in the 49th state is showing no signs of slowing down. Alaska's tourism board said early forecasts are projecting that more than 1.57 million cruise ship passengers could visit southeast Alaska in summer 2022. That's an 18% jump from 2019, the previous record year. Many perennial favorite cruise lines , like Holland America, will be returning to full strength after a non-existent 2020 and abbreviated 2021. Others, like Windstar Cruises, UnCruise, and Hurtigruten are rolling out fresh itineraries or are launching new ships. On dry land, Alaska is set to see myriad new offerings and events. In Juneau, the Sealaska Heritage Institute will open their Arts Campus (where visitors will be able to learn about Alaska Native art and culture) and will host Celebration , one of the largest gatherings of Indigenous peoples. In Anchorage, Fur Rendezvous , Alaska's oldest and largest winter festival, will be back from Feb. 25 to March 6 (which also happens to be peak aurora season ). The event hosts activities like the Running of the Reindeer and the Outhouse Races, before culminating with the 50th running of the iconic Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race . — Bailey Berg

3. Anguilla

This easy-going Caribbean gem is simpler than ever to get to with American Airlines launching the first-ever nonstop, direct flight from Miami on Dec. 11. Private charter flights by Tradewind Aviation have also resumed service to the island. And the just-opened Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club has a fleet of jets to ferry guests from key U.S. cities. The sprawling luxury resort will include a few restaurants overseen by chef Abram Bissell, formerly of Eleven Madison Park, The NoMad, and The Modern. Quintessence , a boutique luxury resort with perks like butler service and a 4:1 staff-to-guest ratio, is opening a more affordable annex of suites called Quinn that will debut in 2022 (along with a Champagne cellar tasting room and Art Bar). New Restaurant Uchu at Belmond Cap Juluca is taking inspiration from Belmond's collection of properties in Peru. Named after the Quechuan word for spice, the menu will feature contemporary Peruvian cuisine inspired by three of the country's regions: the coast, the jungle, and the highlands. — Scott Bay

4. Antarctica

The pandemic shutdown created a compelling reason to visit Antarctica in 2022: See how the whales, seals, and penguins react after nearly two years without seeing humans. New polar-class expedition ships and new ways to get to the White Continent are reasons to pack your boots too. Viking Expeditions will be in Antarctica for the first time in 2022 with new, twin 378-passenger expedition ships. Ponant's new 270-passenger Le Commandant Charcot introduces eco-friendlier sailing, as the first hybrid-electric ship fueled by liquified natural gas (rather than heavy fuel). Quark Expeditions' long-awaited 199-passenger Ultramarine delivers exciting heli-hiking adventures via two eight-seat twin-engine helicopters. Hit a craps table in between icy exploration on the luxurious new all-suite 200-passenger Crystal Endeavor. Silversea Cruises' posh, 144-passenger, all-suite Silver Explorer returns with a debut travel option: Skip the notorious (for rough water) Drake Passage and catch a private flight directly from Chile to Antarctica to board the ship. — Fran Golden

American travelers have long loved the Bahamas for its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and sunshine just about 50 miles off the coast of Florida, but there are even more reasons to visit the island nation in 2022. Baha Mar on the Island of New Providence has a brand new water park equipped with everything from a lazy river to a surf simulator, and day passes are available for purchase to those who aren't resort guests. For more rest and relaxation, journey to the outer islands of the Bahamas. While charter flights will get you exactly where you need to go, Crystal Cruises is offering a Bahamas-centric cruise that brings guests to some of the quieter and more remote islands. On its mid-July cruise, guests will embark and disembark from Nassau and then be whisked away via "6-star" service to the islands of Bimini, Great Exuma, San Salvador, and Long Island. Beyond the beach, don't forget to indulge in some local food and culture. The Island archipelago is famous for its conch, stew fish, and rock lobster. From late April through early May, Carnival is celebrated in Nassau and back after a pandemic hiatus. Keep an eye out for the famous sound and dance of the junkanoo. — Jamie Aranoff

6. Barbados

Whether you want a relaxing all-inclusive stay or a vibrant vacation filled with dining and nightlife, Barbados has you covered. Nowhere is that more evident than the pedestrian-friendly South Coast, which is teeming with new resorts and restaurants. The O2 Beach Club & Spa is an all-inclusive resort set on the white sands of Dover Beach, with three pools, six dining options, seven bars, and the Acqua spa, featuring the only hammam treatment room on the island. It joins other luxurious South Coast hotels, including Sandals and Sea Breeze Beach House . If you can pull yourself away from the resort pools, head along the coast to Worthing Square Food Garden, an outdoor food hall with 20 vendors serving dishes from around the Caribbean. Or stroll down the mile-long boardwalk for easy access to ocean-front food and drinks at local favorites like Champers, Salt Café, Tiki Bar, and Chill Café & Bar. — Kevin Gray

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

A favorite of adventure travelers for its rainforests and divers who explore the Great Blue Hole and expansive barrier reef, Belize offers an abundance of casual spots and a handful of luxe resorts. The latest arrival is Alaia Belize, an Autograph Collection Hotel , in San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, opened mid-2021 with plans to add to its already extensive guest room, suite, and oceanfront villa accommodations. Major airlines are also recognizing the destination's potential with nonstop flights and convenient connections from most U.S. cities. In addition to United and Delta's nonstop flights from Houston and Atlanta, respectively, Alaska Airlines added nonstop service from Los Angeles and Seattle to Belize City in November, and Frontier Airlines will start weekly nonstop flights from Denver and Orlando. — Patricia Doherty

8. Budapest, Hungary

Very few places in the world capture both old-world charm and elegant modernity like Hungary's capital city, and Budapest's latest 130-room luxury hotel, Matild Palace , is a shining example. The neo-baroque palace-turned-hotel, which opened last summer in the city's District V, is a UNESCO-protected site that once housed the city's royalty. The hotel is now home to Wolfgang Punk's famed restaurant, Spago , the first of its kind in central Europe. It also hosts the Duchess bar — a rooftop "liquor library" that mixes craft cocktails using local wines and pálinka, Hungarian fruit brandy, which can be enjoyed alongside panoramic views of the Danube river. Surrounded by 22 wine regions, Budapest is a city for oenophiles. Enjoy a glass of Kékfrankos or Kadarka in the Castle District's newly opened wine bar, Takler Borbár Buda , founded by one of the country's renowned winemaking families. Don't leave the city without visiting Marlou , a biodynamic wine bar near the Hungarian State Opera, and Portobello , an unassuming coffee and natural wine bar around the corner from Matild Palace. — Stephanie Andrews

9. Burgundy, France

The region of Burgundy is known for — you guessed it — its Burgundy wine, but French wine isn't the only reason Burgundy is a must-visit in 2022. In the spring, the region's capital city of Dijon will welcome the Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin (International City of Gastronomy and Wine), an expansive complex with a cooking school, a new hotel, a handful of restaurants, and a wine cellar with over 250 by-the-glass offerings. The new project is perfectly situated at the starting point of Burgundy's famed wine route — Route des Grands Crus — which runs from Dijon to Santenay and produces some of the country's most well-regarded wines, including pinot noir, chardonnay, and sauvignon blanc. — Evie Carrick

10. British Virgin Islands

Within the Caribbean, the 60 islands that comprise the British Virgin Islands have long held the reputation of luxury draped in relaxation. And now it's doubling down on that brand of island spirit with Richard Branson's second private island, the 125-acre Moskito Island that opened in October and sits right across from his first BVI paradise, Necker Island (which received a serious upgrade when it reopened last year after a two-year closure). The new destination will eventually have 10 private estates that can be rented through Virgin Limited Edition , but among the ones already available are Point Estate, starting at $17,500 a night, and Oasis Estate for $19,000. But Moskito isn't the only shiny new reason to visit BVI. Proving the area's resilience following the devastation after Hurricanes Irma and Maria, Saba Rock , the private island long known for its diving, went through a complete reconstruction before reopening in October; the Bitter End Yacht Club reopened in December with BVI's first over-the-water bungalows; and Oil Nut Bay will expand in early 2022 with new villas, a watersports center, and spa. Also on tap for 2022, the solar-powered White Bay Villas and new hilltop suites at Long Bay Beach Resort . And with the Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival returning in the spring of 2022 after being canceled for two years, BVI is proving it's truly back and stronger than ever. — Rachel Chang

11. Costa Smeralda, Sardinia

You're likely to glimpse Europe's pro athlete and yachting crowds at Marriott's four hotels on the Costa Smeralda, the glitzy Italian destination known for its Caribbean-like beaches and luxury resorts. Its glamorous Hotel Cala di Volpe has gradually been unveiling room renovations alongside new dining options, including its Harrods Suite, with a roof terrace and sea-facing plunge pool, and BeefBar 's first Italian outpost. The entire area is one big " Billionaire Experience ," but Formula One and entertainment mogul Flavio Briatore snagged the term for his new dining and nightlife venue in designer shopping destination Porto Cervo. For more of a low-key, family-friendly escape, the Baglioni Resort Sardinia opened 404 an hour south in San Teodoro in June, overlooking the stunning Tavolara Marine Reserve . — Nina Ruggiero

12. Crete, Greece

The Greek Islands have long been a perennial favorite vacation destination for discerning travelers, and Crete, the largest of the 227 islands in the archipelago, deserves a spot atop your must-see list. Yes, it's a place where you can find the white-washed buildings and blue roofs you've lusted after on Instagram for years, and a spot where you can dive into the cerulean blue waters of the Mediterranean at every turn. And of course you can dig deep into both history and mythology as humans have lived on the island since the 7th millennium B.C ., not to mention the fact that Crete is the birthplace of Zeus . It's little surprise then, with all this beauty and history, that Crete continues to harbor a rich creative community, mostly centered in the neighborhood of Chania. There, visitors can peruse works in museums like the Mediterranean Architecture Center , or seek out unique pieces in galleries like the Municipal Art Gallery or the Redd Gallery . To visit Crete, hop aboard a sailing with Silversea , which takes guests to Crete and several other stellar islands, or book a stay at the Blue Palace Elounda, a Luxury Collection Resort , named one of the Top 10 Greece Resort Hotels in Travel + Leisure 's World's Best Awards, 2021. — Stacey Leasca

13. Walt Disney World

The "World's Most Magical Celebration" — Walt Disney World's 18-month-long 50th anniversary event that kicked off on Oct. 1 — continues through 2022 with enchanting touches and highly anticipated ride and hotel openings. Star Wars : Galactic Starcruiser will begin offering its immersive, two-night adventures in a galaxy far, far away on March 1. The interactive, choose-your-own-adventure experience will have guests wielding lightsabers, sleeping on the ship, brushing shoulders with Star Wars characters, eating intergalactic cuisine, and maybe even going on a secret mission, making this a truly unique experience that you can't find anywhere else in the world. Other 2022 openings include the Guardians of the Galaxy : Cosmic Rewind indoor coaster at Epcot, slated for summer. — Elizabeth Rhodes

14. Doha, Qatar

As we ask ourselves what cities of the future should look like, we naturally look around for examples. Places like Shanghai, Tokyo, and New York City seem to fit the description on paper, but I'd argue that no city better encapsulates that definition than Doha, the capital of Qatar. There is so much to discover — from East-West/West-East , a series of four steel monoliths created by sculptor Richard Serra to the Museum of Islamic Art , the massive 560,000-square-foot gallery. Eat at Syrian comfort food spot Damasca One, Em Sherif a rooftop spot that serves up authentic regional dishes, and the lively corner restaurant Nourlaya Contemporary for Sri Lankan cuisine. Stay at the Mandarin Oriental Doha or Banyan Tree Doha . (Read Robinson's full dispatch on Doha in the July 2021 edition of Travel + Leisure) — Whitney Robinson

15. Edinburgh, Scotland

The Auld Reekie is buzzing with new energy. The highly anticipated Hotel W , designed by Jestico and Whiles in conjunction with Allan Murray Architects, is opening next winter. And several other hotels have recently opened in and around the city — Marine North Berwick , the Market Street hotel , Rusacks St. Andrews , and ship-turned-luxury-hotel Fingal . Gleneagles Townhouse , a first-ever city outpost from the famed Gleneagles estate, is opening in the spring. St James Quarter, a developing area of the city, and where Hotel W is being built, is opening next year with 85 shops, 30 restaurants, and a cinema. New in whisky is the September christening of Johnnie Walker Princes Street . And promising to shake up the scotch scene in the capital city is Leith Distillery , opening in the summer. — Scott Bay

16. Finger Lakes, New York

The Finger Lakes have bolstered their wellness and culinary offerings in recent years, carving out a name for themselves in the luxury travel realm. Inns of Aurora , comprising five historic mansions, debuted a holistic wellness facility in 2021 — set on 350 acres overlooking Cayuga Lake, complete with hydrotherapy pools, meditation areas, and a farm fresh cafe. Forty miles west of Cayuga, The Lakehouse on Canandaigua — situated on, yes, Canandaigua Lake — recently unveiled the Willowbrook Spa, which boasts lakeside barrel sauna sessions among other innovative treatments. Sandwiched between Cayuga and Canandaigua lakes is Seneca Lake, home to the largest of the Finger Lakes wine trails (this might be riesling country, but don't knock the lighter-bodied reds till you try 'em) and foodie draws like the 14-seat F.L.X. Table . Travelers visiting in the coming year will also see the Finger Lakes festival roster return in full force, including Rochester's Lilac Festival in May and International Jazz Festival in July, as well as attractions for the historically inclined road tripper, like Cayuga County's celebration of Harriet Tubman's birth through a number of walking tours and activations rolled out through 2022. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

17. Franklin, Tennessee

Despite its count of more than 80,000 year-round residents, the very walkable Franklin firmly grasps onto its small-town charms , starting with a quintessentially quaint downtown chock-full of shops and restaurants finding shelter in brick storefronts lining the sidewalks. The uninitiated might know this place for its past — Civil War museums, battleground sites, and historical markers telling the stories of a slave market, race riots, and Black soldiers in the U.S. Colored Troop division of the army all offer points of education and reflection. But the southern city has many modern-day draws as well — for starters, an exciting food and drink scene that includes the Tennessee Whiskey Trail and Arrington Vineyards , the largest winery in the region. Musical events and venues abound, too: The Pilgrimage Music Festival is one of the biggest in the state, and the 7,500-seat FirstBank Amphitheater , newly opened inside a former rock quarry, has welcomed the likes of the Jonas Brothers and Santana to its stage. There's also Leiper's Fork , a quirky-cool enclave filled with antique shops and art galleries. Even more brand-new to the scene is Southall , a 325-acre farm and inn with 62 rooms and suites and 16 cottages opening this June. The lush setting amid rolling hills makes active adventures (hiking, biking, kayaking), wellness pursuits (a spa, meditation, yoga, and two outdoor pools), and nourishing food (the restaurant uses ingredients grown, raised, and foraged on the property) easy to find. All of this and more lie just a short, 30-minute drive from bustling Nashville, making it tempting to tack onto a visit to the capital city. — Alisha Prakash

18. Galápagos Islands

The world's largest marine biosphere reserve will expand more than 20,000 square miles next year thanks to a recent presidential decree . The conservation measure seeks to combat illegal fishing by offering increased protection to the thousands of species that populate the archipelago's waters as well as a migration corridor stretching up to Costa Rica used by sharks, whales and other sea life. Come January, travelers can cruise this UNESCO-protected region on new nine-day adventures from Hurtigruten Expeditions and outfitter Metropolitan Touring aboard the 90-guest carbon-neutral MS Santa Cruz II. For a more intimate experience, passengers can book Aqua Expeditions ' seven-suite 164-foot superyacht, Aqua Mare, when it debuts in May. At the end of the year, eco-enthusiasts can sail to lesser-explored islands to spot giant tortoises, sea lions, flightless cormorants, Galápagos penguins, and marine iguanas on Quasar Expeditions ' new sustainable yacht — the 18-passenger M/Y Conservation featuring biodegradable amenities, renewable energy and a carbon-neutral footprint. Those with timid sea legs should check into the locally owned and run Montemar in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island. — Nora Walsh

19. Greater Palm Springs, California

Greater Palm Springs is kicking its signature self-care into high gear in the coming year. Taking a cue from its sister property, Sensei Lanai , the new Sensei Porcupine Creek is converting a 230-acre private estate into a luxury wellness experience in Rancho Mirage in 2022. In Palm Springs proper, Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza will celebrate Indigenous art and history alongside the new Spa at Séc-he , where visitors will soak in approximately 12,000-year-old hot springs. Nearby, Fleur Noire Hotel just opened its adults-only casitas and bungalows, with a speakeasy Champagne bar to follow. Unexpectedly, the desert has a budding surf scene — the former Wet 'n Wild waterpark is becoming Palm Springs Surf Club , with a state-of-the-art wave pool, spa, restaurant, and bar; DSRT Surf is set to open a 5.5-acre wave lagoon in Palm Desert; and Kelly Slater himself is bringing a green energy–powered wave basin to Coral Mountain , a proposed new wellness resort with a hotel and residences, set to open in La Quinta by 2023 pending city approvals. And for entertainment outside the splash zone, the $250-million Coachella Valley Arena will host hockey, concerts, and more live events by the end of the year. — Nina Ruggiero

20. Greenville, South Carolina

Once in the shadow of Charleston and Asheville, Greenville has emerged in recent years as a go-to destination in its own right — and it keeps giving travelers more reasons to visit. In 2022, the city of just over 70,000 people will welcome a luxury boutique hotel, unveil a new public gathering place, and build on its well-earned reputation as a culinary and craft beer hotspot. The long-awaited, 187-room Grand Bohemian hotel is expected to open its doors this spring, complete with a two-story restaurant and bar, art gallery, and spa. The 60-acre Unity Park will feature plenty of greenspace, an observation tower, baseball fields, playgrounds, and walking and biking trails. And recently opened restaurants, including French Laundry alum Drew Erickson's Camp , Urban Wren, Coral, and an outpost of Nashville's famous Prince's Hot Chicken located inside Yee-Haw Brewing will ensure you're well-fed while in town. — Kevin Gray

21. Ilha Caldeira, Mozambique

While South Africa and Uganda grab headlines for African wildlife, Mozambique has been quietly making strides protecting 17 percent of its land — including beaches, coral reefs, and islands — showcasing its dedication to its natural beauty both on land and underwater. Ever since the country's 16-year civil war ended in 1992, the southeastern African nation has been aiming to build back in the right ways. Case in point: the private island of Ilha Caldeira, less than seven miles off the coast as part of the Primeiras and Segundas Archipelago, located within the marine-protected area with 20 percent of the country's intact living coral. It's here that the eco-luxury Banyan Tree resort chain has developed one of its most ambitious projects yet, a five-star property — accessible by jetty or helicopter — with 40 private pool villas that will be completely solar powered. Add to that a fish market restaurant with a 270-degree ocean view, the brand's trademark Banyan Tree Spa, and world-class diving, all in a too-pristine-to-believe beach setting, and this island escape is sure to draw attention away from its Indian Ocean neighbors when it opens at the end of 2022. — Rachel Chang

22. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Those wary of traveling internationally in 2022 will find solace in Jackson Hole, a mountain town with endless open space (Wyoming is the least populated state in the U.S.) and plenty to do. In the winter, life revolves around Jackson Hole Mountain Resort , home to some of the nation's best skiing and snowboarding. In the summer, plan your trip around the Jackson Hole Food & Wine Summer Festival (June 23-25) or head to the nearby Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. For easy access to the mountain town, travelers can hop on one of Aero's high-end, seasonal flights and stay at The Cloudveil off the Town Square or the Caldera House at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. — Evie Carrick

23. Kafue National Park, Zambia

Straddling three regions of Zambia, Kafue National Park is the largest (and oldest) in the country, measuring 8,648 miles. In the wildlife-rich Busanga plains — located in the secluded northern side of the park — spend the night at newly opened Chisa Busanga Camp in their bird's nest shaped rooms. Enjoy a silent safari, thanks to e-cruisers or an e-bike safari provided by the property. See wildlife from above with a hot air balloon safari from Shumba Camp or Busanga Bush Camp . Other accommodation offerings in the park include riverfront Ila Safari Lodge and Mukambi Safari Lodge . Both properties offer fishing, walking safaris, boat cruises, and have Instagram worthy pools (perfect for a soak and the traditional safari sundowner: a gin and tonic). — Mazuba Kapambwe

24. Kaunas, Lithuania

Kaunas, Lithuania has a lofty New Year's resolution. After a century of wars, Soviet rule, and, since the 1990s, independence, this UNESCO Creative City of Design is ready to cultivate a new identity — and it's doing so as one of two European Capitals of Culture for 2022 (alongside Novi Sad, Serbia). The festivities commence in January, with thousands of concerts, festivals, exhibitions, and events throughout the year to celebrate Kaunas' history while cementing its path forward . Also this year, Kaunas will welcome the highly anticipated $30 million Science Island, Lithuania's first national science and innovation center designed by UK firm Malcolm Reading Consultants (MRC). By May, the city's former Magnus Hotel will reopen with sparkly new digs and a posh rooftop under the ibis Styles umbrella 404 . This lively city is also a main stop on the recently unveiled 1,330-mile Forest Trail across the Baltics. And, a host of just-announced Ryanair flight routes, including Madrid to Kaunas, will make visiting this capital of culture a breeze. — Stephanie Vermillion

25. Kyushu, Japan

Kyushu may be less than two hours from Tokyo by plane, but it feels far from Honshū's well-beaten tourist circuit. The southwesternmost Japanese main island is still largely unexplored, providing those willing to venture off the beaten path with a much different Japan than the one they'll find in its cities. As a warm, subtropical island, Kyushu is home to long, golden beaches and some of Japan's best snorkeling and scuba diving. Inland, the country's most active volcano, Mt. Aso, feeds the island's myriad natural hot springs — many of which offer sea views. And while the island has accommodations that include both hot spring resorts and luxury beachfront villas 404 , nothing tops a stay at Hirado Castle , which was recently restored and renovated to welcome visitors overnight . — Evie Carrick

26. Lanai, Hawaii

Wellness opportunities and cultural awareness are showcased along with luxury at Lanai's two Four Seasons resorts. At Sensei Lāna'i, A Four Seasons Resort , guests can now choose the Discover Sensei Experience , offering the ability to enjoy the retreat's amenities without joining the more comprehensive programs. New "Optimal Wellbeing" programs focus on improving performance in tennis and golf along with overall wellness. Four Seasons Resort Lanai is adding an observatory as part of "Love Lanai," featuring cultural experiences designed to share the island's rich heritage. The observatory program will center around the history of Pacific voyaging, native traditions, and astronomy. — Patricia Doherty

27. Las Vegas, Nevada

Never bet against the house: The pandemic may have put a damper on Las Vegas, but the ever-on-the-move city is back in a big way for 2022. A massive new development on the Strip, Resorts World Las Vegas, opened in June, has three distinct Hilton properties under one enormous roof, not to mention more than 40 restaurants and bars, plus pools (plural), and a handful of $15,000-a-night villas . Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, the Cromwell , and downtown's Circa Resort & Casino are also giving visitors fresh options on where to stay. The city's pro sports teams — also now plural — are drawing in fans. And off-Strip "immersive experiences," like the Omega Mart by Meow Wolf and the Illuminarium, both at Area15 , are lending an additional layer of things to do beyond the expected. Not that there's anything wrong with splashing out on dinner and a show after the past two years. Live acts — like Adele's just-announced residency at The Colosseum — are once again hot tickets, as is a table at chic new supper club Delilah , at the Wynn Las Vegas. Some things, thankfully, never change. — Paul Brady

28. Louisville, Kentucky

Your cowboy boots were made for walking the streets of Louisville. Nicknamed "The Bourbon City," an official gateway to Kentucky's bourbon trail, the city is expanding its bourbon footprint in 2022. In October, the Urban Bourbon Trail welcomed the first and only African American–owned distillery in the state, Brough Brothers . Meanwhile, its trailmate, Angel's Envy , will wrap its $8.2-million expansion project complete with a new event space and five tasting rooms in the spring. The city is most well known for hosting the annual Kentucky Derby every spring at the historic Churchill Downs racetrack, and the Downs will open the first installment of its multi-year expansion plan, the Homestretch Club , just in time for the 2022 Derby. There, attendees will be able to enjoy the race with an all-new trackside lounge experience. — Hannah Streck

29. Malaysia

Malaysia is home to a beautiful medley of cultures (Chinese, Indian, and Malay) and a diverse smattering of terrain: bustling cities with towering buildings, verdant rain forests with incredible wildlife, and idyllic islands with dreamy beaches. But all of this and more has been closed to the world for much of the pandemic. Now that the island of Langkawi is open via a travel bubble, with the rest of the country expected to follow suit in 2022, travelers can once again experience Malaysia's many gifts. Langkawi, a beach lover's paradise, blends unspoiled nature (UNESCO-listed Kilim Karst Geoforest Park ) and unparalleled luxury ( Four Seasons Resort , Datai Langkawi ), while cosmopolitan capital Kuala Lumpur draws visitors with its gleaming Petronas Towers, delicious hawker food stalls, and shopping. Then there's Borneo, complete with wildlife-packed jungles and a rich Indigenous culture, as well as Desaru Coast, a 3,900-acre area that's home to coveted resorts like the One&Only Desaru Coast , a tropical oasis that opened in early September 2020 (the brand's first in Asia). — Alisha Prakash

30. Maldives

The Maldives' 1,000+ islands sit in the Indian Ocean like a string of turquoise pearls. The tropical nirvana has 166 accommodation options, including the new Joali Being nature retreat, which leads guests on a transformative wellness journey. Alila Kothaifaru Maldives debuts in February with 80 beach and overwater villas on the Raa Atoll. Coming to the same atoll in May, also with 80 luxury villas, is Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa on a massive lagoon primed for snorkeling. The ever-innovative Soneva Fushi has a new experience that includes zip-lining to a six-course meal 30 feet about the sand. Along with Soneva Jani, they've debuted Soneva Soul , a new spa complex melding ancient and modern techniques. Other vacation favorites are unveiling new digs like the sleek, contemporary renovation of Naladhu Private Island and the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island , debuting in February. — Katie Lockhart

31. Newport, Rhode Island

Newport is considered one of the sailing capitals of the world. It is home to the largest fleet of America's Cup 12 Meter yachts , most of which are available for charter. In May, the coastal town is welcoming a Sailing Museum that is sure to solidify that title. Over the past few years, a slew of hotel openings have closed a much-needed gap for luxury accommodations, including Hammett's Hotel , Brenton Hotel , and The Wayfinder Hotel . The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection is debuting the property's highly anticipated transformation conceived by Dallas-based design collective Swoon — the lobby, dining room, and shared areas are now complete with guest rooms finishing early next year. Renowned beverage executive Maxwell Britten has joined the team as chief cocktail curator alongside an amazing chef who cooks up a selection of elevated pub-inspired dishes. And don't miss Giusto , at Hammett's Hotel, which serves up excellent Italian with a Rhode Island twist. — Scott Bay

32. Nile Cruise, Egypt

There is no trip that will convert you to a life of river cruising quite like a sail down (well, technically, up) the Nile. In fact, the world's first river cruises sailed in Egypt, a country designed around the central waterway, where it makes sense that the Nile would act as your home base. A typical Egyptian river cruise sets sail from Cairo to Luxor and then Aswan, with the occasional stop to visit an island temple along the way — complete with sights like the Pyramids, Valley of Kings and Queens, Nefertari's tomb, and the Temple of Kom Ombo. In 2022, there's more than one new river cruise to choose from, between Uniworld's newly launched S.S. Sphinx and AmaWaterways' Amadahlia , both of which sailed their inaugural voyages in fall 2021. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

In late 2021, Panama launched a tourism platform along with the coolest tagline in travel: " Live for More ." With a booming coffee scene and a renewed focus on its culture, history, and biodiversity , the Central American nation is ready for its moment in the spotlight. It's an attractive place for those looking to get out of resort mode and into a world open for exploration and adventure. Immersive environmental experiences abound here, including trekking through the rainforest on its suspended hanging bridges and walking to the top of the Volcán Barú, an active volcano with both Pacific and Atlantic Ocean views from the top. There is also abundant opportunity to learn from Panama's seven Indigenous communities, each of whom offer their own personalized experiences and are happy to share their craftsmanship and traditions. Panama offers plenty of luxury, too. In its capital city, check into the American Trade Hotel , centrally located in Panama's Casco Viejo district, a historic neighborhood which happens to also be a UNESCO World Heritage Site. — Stacey Leasca

34. Phuket, Thailand

Before the pandemic, Phuket was beautiful but crowded, full of beach bars and tourists chasing all-nighters. It's still full of energy and surrounded by the same pristine sea glass–colored water, but its luxurious side is finally getting the attention it deserves, from its high-end coffee shops to its cocktail bars. Hide from the world in paradise with a stay in one of the private pool residences at Trisara , featuring kitchens, a private chef, butler service, and breathtaking views over the sea, as well as access to the resort's PRU restaurant , which has earned both a Michelin star and a Michelin green star. Or book a stay at the brand-new V Villas Phuket , which offers a curated selection of 19 private-pool, 1-, 3-, and 4-bedroom villas. Later, party the night away in Phuket Old Town with inventive cocktails at Club No. 43 (think: rum with grilled pineapple juice and espuma), or settle in for a great dinner and a night of daring performances at the Junkyard Theatre , which just launched a weekly Saturday night show. — Alison Fox

35. Pico, Portugal

The islands of the Azores — a Portuguese archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean some 900 miles west of Lisbon — are more popular than ever, and for 2022, travelers will want to fix their eyes firmly on the second-largest isle: Pico, an alluring, otherworldly locale covered with black, volcanic rocks. Conquering Portugal's highest peak, the cloud-shrouded, 7,713-foot-high Mount Pico, used to be the island's main draw, but a recent uptick in hospitality infrastructure has allowed for more opportunity to partake of Pico's most important agricultural output: wine. Renowned Portuguese winemaker Antonio Maçanita just opened a new winery that comes with bookable design-forward apartments adjacent to the island's unique vineyards. On Pico, grapes are planted on volcanic terroir that are then protected from Atlantic winds with rock walls. Maçanita's ​​ Azores Wine Company 's mineral, sometimes slightly salty wines could be the perfect celebratory drink after a grueling hike.The crashing waves around Pico are beginning to seduce surfers, too. And there are also ample opportunities to watch for marine life thanks to 20 species of dolphins and whales (including humpbacks and orcas) that can be spotted in these waters. But if you'd rather eat what's in the water: Try lapas, a local shellfish delicacy best served grilled with butter and garlic and finished with a squeeze of lemon. Thankfully, getting to experience all of this has never been easier: Starting July 1, United Airlines will for the first time connect Newark to the island of São Miguel (the Azores' largest island), and from there, it's a quick hop over to Pico. Or you could always get there via direct flights from Lisbon or Porto with Tap Air Portugal's stopover program. — Chadner Navarro

36. Quebec, Canada

After over a year of tight pandemic restrictions, Canada reopened to American tourists in 2021, so now might finally be time to plan that trip to the Great White North, starting with the province of Quebec. From the charming, French-influenced cities of Montreal and Quebec City to the region's snow-capped mountains, there's something new to explore every season. In December 2021, the first Club Med mountain resort in Canada, Club Med Quebec Charlevoix , opened, offering all-inclusive ski vacations just a short flight from several major U.S. cities. Regent Seven Seas Cruises is offering a foliage-packed autumn cruise from New York to Montreal in October. No matter what time of year you visit, Le Capitole Hotel in Quebec City and Humaniti Hotel Montreal are top picks for places to stay in the major cities. — Elizabeth Rhodes

37. Queensland, Australia

Australia's highly anticipated international border reopening will be well worth the wait, especially as more travelers seek nuanced cultural experiences and sustainable stays. The northeastern state has long been the gateway for visits to the rightly beloved Great Barrier Reef, and beginning in 2022, visitors can learn about conservation efforts and the ecosystem directly from the area's Traditional Land Owners and Indigenous guides during day trips from Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel . Aboriginal elders and Traditional Land Owners are also working with local operator Gudjuda Tours on a daylong excursion to tag and rescue one of the reef's most beloved creatures: sea turtles. Those who want to take a more extended trip to the Whitsunday Islands can look to Elysian Retreat , recently certified as the area's first fully solar-powered resort, or its carbon-negative sister property Pumpkin Island . Back on the mainland, within the verdant Daintree Rainforest UNESCO World Heritage Site, eco-luxury hideaway Silky Oaks Lodge will finally welcome guests back after its $15-million overhaul. — Sarah Bruning

38. Santa Ynez Valley, California

Two hours from L.A., the Santa Ynez Valley is rural, unassuming, and coming into its own. The region has grown grapes for decades and has even made a Hollywood cameo in the movie Sideways. The arrival of newer tasting rooms, restaurants, and hotels in recent years has firmly put the area on oenophiles' and travelers' radars. Start with a private olive oil tasting at Global Gardens and hard cider at Tin City Cider in Los Olivos. Follow with pizza pies at Full of Life Flatbread and vino at nearby female-owned A Tribute to Grace and Casa Dumetz . Detour to Firestone Walker 's outpost in Buellton for a few limited edition craft brews and finish with dishes such as roasted tomato and fennel risotto at the Ballard Inn's Gathering Table 404 . Though it's technically just beyond the boundaries of the valley in Lompoc, The Hilt Estate , is too good to miss. And once it opens this year as an Auberge property, The Inn at Mattei's Tavern will make for the perfect base from which to explore it all. — Tanvi Chheda

39. São Paulo, Brazil

Known for its dynamic combination of luxury, design, and fashion influence, São Paulo is an international metropolitan hub of arts and culture. It's the largest city in South America, hosting an array of entertainment opportunities such as fabulous hotels, decadent restaurants, high-class museums, and iconic mid-century architecture. With airlines including American adding flights throughout Brazil in 2022 and a flourishing hospitality renaissance throughout the city, São Paulo is well prepared for its anticipated influx of new travelers. A must-visit destination for 2022 is the Rosewood São Paulo , located in the heart of São Paulo's Cidade Matarazzo and housed in a historic landmark building. Here, visitors will encounter 200-plus luxurious guest rooms, suites, and residences, plus six restaurants and bars and two pools. — Molly O'Brien

40. Savannah, Georgia

This coastal Georgia city is rightly famous for its atmospheric, moss-draped streets and squares, not to mention its hundreds of years of history. But lately Savannah has been boosted by creativity and innovation outside the sometimes frozen-in-amber Old Town, which means now is a particularly compelling time to visit. Make home base the brand-new Thompson Savannah 429 , a slick 13-story tower with interiors by Studio 11 Design that anchors the still-developing Eastern Wharf neighborhood. Phase one of the 54-acre development, which aims to turn a once-industrial waterfront into a contemporary mixed-use destination, includes hundreds of apartments, fitness trails, access to the Savannah River, and multiple bars and restaurants, including Fleeting , a seasonally driven spot inside the Thompson. At the same time, Savannah's other major waterfront destination has also come into its own. The Plant Riverside District, a stone's throw from Old Town, marked its official grand opening in November 2021, putting a bow on a bustling JW Marriott hotel , countless restaurants and bars, and multiple live performance venues all along a rebuilt waterfront. Not that all the action is along the river: The ever-evolving Starland District, a short drive from Johnson Square, has its share of hangouts including Starland Yard , a food truck park that's also home to the excellent Pizzeria Vittoria Napoletana ; Two Tides Brewing Company , which pours hazy ales and delicious sours in a super-cool taproom; and Troupial , a Venezuelan cafe. You'll also want to pack Wildsam Savannah , a newly released field guide that helps visitors understand the layers of history (and the contemporary politics) that are fueling the latest renaissance in Savannah. — Paul Brady

41. Seattle, Washington

Few places offer both an urban and a natural escape in one destination — and the Emerald City might be one of the best. The city center is world-class with top hotel accommodations ( Four Seasons Hotel Seattle and Thompson Seattle ), locally focused fine dining, and countless cultural sites. Then, just minutes away from all of that is some of the most stunning outdoor recreation out there. Adding to the city's luster is the newly opened Lotte Hotel Seattle . The 189-room tower is bringing high design and refined service to the area. Charlotte , the hotel's restaurant on the 18th floor, serves up an inventive menu that is sure to become an all-time favorite dining experience. The landmark Fairmont Olympic Hotel recently completed a $25-million historic restoration of its public spaces, quickly becoming one of the most Instagrammable spots in town. Plus, its buzzy new culinary showpiece will debut in the months to come. Before leaving Seattle, don't miss a meal at celebrated pasta specialist Brian Clevenger's new restaurant, Autumn . — Scott Bay

42. Sedona, Arizona

Makito Umekita/Travel + Leisure

With tourism already surging thanks to the Instagram fame of attractions like Devil's Bridge, Sedona garnered even more of a following during the pandemic among cooped-up city dwellers enthralled by the destination's red rocks and energy vortexes. In 2022, set your sights on North America's first landscape hotel, Ambiente , home to 40 standalone accommodations (called "atriums"), most with private rooftop decks perfect for stargazing. Opening in May, the sustainability-focused retreat will offer on-site trailhead access — further immersing guests in the Sedona landscape while combating traffic along the city's main highway — and reactivate an ancient waterway to populate a stream running throughout the hotel. Experience Sedona's culinary clout right on property at Ambiente's restaurant, Forty1, housed in a refurbished airstream, or venture next door to Mariposa , the city's must-visit restaurant by chef Lisa Dahl, who pioneered fine dining in this town. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

43. Singapore

Singapore reopened to vaccinated American travelers in October 2021 with the introduction of the country's Vaccinated Travel Lane . Travelers can fly from the U.S. on Singapore Airlines' vaccine-mandatory flights ; the World's Best airline 26 years running launched Vaccinated Travel Lane flights this fall, and United Airlines plans to follow suit by January 2022. Even in the early stages of reopening to foreign travelers, the city-state is already unveiling new culinary ventures. Recently, chef Julien Royer, behind three-Michelin-star Odette, opened Claudine , and Raffles Singapore unveiled Osteria BBR 404 by Alain Ducasse, while Marina Bay Sands plans to debut chef Tetsuya Wakuda's second restaurant within the hotel in the new year. Of course, there's just as much flavor to be found at Singapore's famed hawker centers, now on the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage. As tourists return to Singapore, new cultural attractions follow — from the return of Singapore Art Week, beginning Jan. 14, to the recent unveiling of SkyHelix Sentosa , an open-air ride towering 300 feet above sea level, for anyone still in need of thrills after a 17-hour flight over the Pacific. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

44. Southwest Michigan

Beaches with ocean-like views were once the main draw to Michigan's southwest coast, but new high-style accommodations and hyper-local experiences are giving us more reasons to go. Where to stay with so many options? Consider the cool new motel-turned-boutique Lake Shore Resort in Saugatuck; The Fields glamping retreat with new spa tents in South Haven; the revamped, modern Harbor Grand Hotel in New Buffalo; or anywhere along the coast with high-touch Bluefish Vacation Rentals , which has killer lakefront homes now stocked with handmade local goods. Hop on the new pedestrian/bike trail in Union Pier, and definitely shop two new woman-owned standouts: the beautifully curated Haven and Ariane Prewitt's AP Cottage, scheduled to open this spring. Women are showing off the culinary scene, too, with everything from a special saison ale — winner of the 2021 Great American Beer Festival — at woman-owned Waypost Brewing Co. , to new herb-inspired cocktails at James Beard-winning chef Melissa Corey's Penny Royal Café & Provisions , to James Beard nominee Abra Beherns' Granor Farm , where dinners return this year in a new glass-enclosed barn. — Nina Kokotas Hahn

45. St. Moritz, Switzerland

If you're on the hunt for glitz, glamour, and powder for days, look no further than St. Moritz, Switzerland. The Alpine ski town has long been considered the birthplace of winter vacationing. Tourists first flocked to the mountain town in 1864 , when hotelier Johannes Badrutt took a few British travelers to the community, promising them bluebird days all winter. It wasn't long until others learned about this hidden winter oasis. Skiers and winter sports enthusiasts flocked to the mountain, which has now hosted the Winter Olympic Games not once, but twice. It's an ideal place for ski bunnies too, thanks to its luxury shopping, and its numerous Michelin-starred restaurants . This winter, head to St. Moritz for its fantastic events like White Surf (Feb. 6, 13, and 20, 2022), an international horse race that takes place across the frozen Lake St. Moritz, and the Snow Polo World Cup 404 (Jan. 28-30, 2022), which happens to be the world's only high-goal tournament on snow. Book a stay at the Badrutt's Palace Hotel , which officially reopened on Dec. 3 for the 2021/2022 season and offers guests the chance to try their hand at high-octane winter sports like skijöring, snowkiting, tobogganing, and even private helicopter tours to the peaks of Piz Bernina and Piz Palü. — Stacey Leasca

46. St. Pete/Clearwater, Florida

The beaches of St. Petersburg and nearby Clearwater are consistently ranked among the best in the U.S. and even the world , but there's more to this destination than white sand, pristine waters, and 361 days of sunshine per year. St. Pete/Clearwater offers more than 30 museums and galleries featuring world-renowned artists like Andy Warhol and Pablo Picasso, as well as the largest collection of Salvador Dalí's work outside of Spain. One could say brewing the perfect beer is also an artform that St. Pete/Clearwater has mastered, with its trail of 35+ locally owned craft breweries. Playfully nicknamed the " Gulp Coast ," complete your experience with a digital passport that tracks your beer-sampling progress. These year-round offerings mean you can visit any time, but head over in June 2022 to revel in the 20th anniversary of St. Pete Pride , the largest Pride event in Florida, hosting events for everyone from friends and families to couples and solo travelers. — Jessica Poitevien

47. Todos Santos, Mexico

Todos Santos is one of Mexico's pueblo mágicos, or "magic towns," and locals are working to retain its history and culture while embracing the steady stream of travelers who have begun venturing an hour north of Cabo San Lucas to discover its charm. The area saw a handful of new boutique resorts pop up in 2021 that provide luxury amenities while keeping the rugged land and local flora the centerpiece. Wellness-focused Paradero describes itself as a "landscaping project" that just so happens to have luxurious suites, and El Perdido , an all-villa resort less than five miles south, provides all-terrain vehicles so visitors can get to Los Cerritos beach, the local surf break of choice. Oceanfront Rancho Pescadero 's multimillion-dollar transformation will be complete in the spring. Bookings for its oceanfront villas and penthouse rooms — some with private rooftops and plunge pools — open in January. Todos Santos has fully embraced farm-to-table dining, with Javier Plascencia's orchard-adjacent Jazamango leading the way, and Santa Terra , a cosmopolitan oyster bar meets arts and entertainment venue concept, is in the process of adding multiple bars and restaurants, plus a glamping site and amphitheater, according to its developer, "without chopping down a single tree." — Nina Ruggiero

48. Udaipur, India

After an extremely challenging 20-month closure, India reopened to vaccinated travelers on Nov. 15, 2021. Those looking toward South Asia in the new year, perhaps to see the Taj Mahal in Agra or hit the Goan beaches, should make sure Udaipur is on the itinerary. The city of lakes in southern Rajasthan is thought of as the most romantic Indian destination (even called the "Venice of the East") — but it's not just for honeymooners. From the vibrance of Hathi Pol bazaar and Shilpgram , an artisanal compound on the outskirts of the city with a festival set to return on Jan. 22, to the serenity of Lake Pichola, the artificial lake made in the 14th century, Udaipur is a city where you can fully immerse in Rajasthani culture. A hub of Indian luxury, Udaipur is now home to the country's first Raffles hotel, which opened in October. This private island hotel on Udai Sagar Lake is accessible only by boat — something of a trademark for the over-the-top hotels of Udaipur. Meant to be a flagship hotel in the Raffles portfolio, complete with brand staples (think: bars, both Long and Writers), 101 lavish suites, Rasoi cooking school, and lakeside open-air restaurant Belvedere Point. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

49. Wales, United Kingdom

The only path in the world to follow the whole of a country's coastline, the Wales Coastal Path celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2022. Walking its 870 miles would take three months, but its most spectacular stretches can be seen in one visit — and in style. St David's in Pembrokeshire, west Wales, is Britain's smallest city with a mere population of 1,600 and is home to a Medieval cathedral , a luxury hotel inside Roch Castle , some excellent pubs, and the upscale St David's Gin & Kitchen . Hiking paths with unbeatable coastal vistas are within easy reach (try the St David's Head loop ) and pass neolithic tombs and hillforts. — Jamie Carter

50. Yucatán, Mexico

Mérida, the capital of the state of Yucatán, has emerged as one of Mexico's most popular cities thanks to its lively restaurant scene, a busy calendar of cultural events, and a relaxed tropical atmosphere. Increasingly, however, travelers are venturing beyond the city to explore the state's unspoiled nature reserves, ancient Maya sites, and sprawling haciendas — a number now converted into hotels. Among the destinations that are drawing travelers to Yucatán are El Cuyo, a quiet beach town that was long a closely guarded secret of windsurfers. Now visitors can also enjoy gourmet Mexican fare at the El Chile Gordo restaurant and boho-chic lodgings at the new Casa Mate . In Espita, a charming colonial town near Valladolid, is the Casona los Cedros hotel which opened in summer 2021. Sisal, a historic port in the western part of the state, has attracted new interest since being named a Pueblo Mágico at the end of 2020. A new highway completed in April now connects Sisal to Hunucmá (and then beyond to Mérida) making it easier for beachcombers to visit, and perhaps spend the night at the cool Club de Patos 404 . — John Newton

51. Bonus: Space

This was a monumental year for human spaceflight — not only did NASA and SpaceX achieve a regular cadence of astronaut launches for the first time since the Space Shuttle was retired in 2011, but space tourism has also lifted off in a major way, making space a top destination to visit in 2022. And it's a realistic trip, too, so long as you have the budget for it. Both Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic succeeded in taking passengers to space on short suborbital hops this year, and each company plans to ramp up those flights in 2022 — Virgin Galactic already has more than 600 bookings. The price for a quick jaunt to space? A few hundred thousand dollars . If you have an even bigger budget (say, a couple hundred million dollars), you could charter your own orbital flight in a SpaceX Dragon Capsule, as did entrepreneur Jared Issacman with his Inspiration4 mission in September. There are also tourism trips to the International Space Station in the works; Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa launches on his multi-day journey in December, courtesy of space travel agency Space Adventures and Russia's Roscosmos space agency, which plans to take even more " citizen space explorers " to the orbiting laboratory in the near future. Of course, not everyone has pockets deep enough to cover space travel, but more affordable journeys are on the horizon. Startup Space Perspective plans to launch high-altitude balloon rides to the edge of space in 2024 , for the relatively low price of $125,000. Potential dealbreaker, though — the balloons don't actually reach space, maxing out at 100,000 feet in altitude, while space is considered to begin somewhere between 264,000 feet (50 miles) and 327,360 feet ​​(62 miles). But hey, at least there's a bar on board. — Stefanie Waldek

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TravelAwaits’ Best Of Travel Awards 2022: Winners

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Thank you to all of our readers who took the time to nominate and vote for their favorite travel destinations and businesses in this year’s Best Of Travel Awards! We know that each of the winners and finalists appreciates your support. Below you will find the winner in each category along with a link to the full list of finalists so that you can learn more about each and every one. As you finalize your travel plans for this year — or as you begin to plan for next year — consider our readers’ picks for your itinerary.

Favorite U.S. City

Santa Fe, New Mexico — Readers love the small town feel of this remote mountain city. Read more about Santa Fe and the other great finalists in 12 Favorite Cities To Visit In The U.S.

Favorite International City

Paris, France — From fantastic food and the largest and most visited museum in the world to iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, The City of Lights is the full package. Enjoy all 12 of our readers’ picks for favorite international cities to visit .

Favorite U.S. Small Town

Abilene, Kansas — A Wild West town with strong ties to the cattle trade, Abilene has received the top spot for the 2nd year in a row! Learn all about why Abilene is one of the 11 Best Small Towns To Visit In The U.S.

Friendliest U.S. Small Town

Abilene, Kansas — The hometown of President Eisenhower won big this year, being named the most friendly in addition to the favorite small town! Learn more about each of the 12 Friendliest Small Towns In The U.S. according to our readers.

Friendliest International Small Town

Banff, Alberta, Canada — Enjoy Banff’s hot springs, walkable shopping district, and proximity to the surrounding National Park simply waiting to be explored. Learn more about Banff and the other eight great destinations named the 9 Friendliest Small Towns Around The World .

Most Walkable U.S. City

Charleston, South Carolina — Our readers picked Charleston for its walkable downtown and its slow-paced vibe. Discover more about each of the 5 Most Walkable Cities In The U.S.

Most Walkable International City

Amsterdam, Netherlands — Whether walking or biking, Amsterdam is a lovely city for getting around using your own two feet. Learn what other great cities made our list of the 9 Most Walkable Cities Around The World .

Most Pet-Friendly U.S. City

Albuquerque, New Mexico — Many shops in Old Town welcome your four-legged friends, as does the open-air Trolley. Read all about each of The 8 Most Pet-Friendly Cities In The U.S. to see where you should travel next with your fur babies.

Favorite U.S. Small Town To Visit At The Holidays

Branson, Missouri — Christmas is Branson’s time to shine, from themed shows to spectacular light displays. Learn why Branson is one of Our 14 Favorite U.S. Small Towns To Visit During The Holidays , and see who else made this coveted list.

Favorite International Town To Visit At The Holidays

Salzburg, Austria — The Salzburg Christkindlmarkt dates back to the 1400s and is a European tradition beloved by our readers. Discover who else made the list of Our 8 Favorite International Cities To Visit During The Holidays and start making your travel plans for this holiday season today!

National Parks

Favorite u.s. national park.

Yellowstone National Park , Wyoming, Montana, Idaho — Geysers, hot springs, and diverse wildlife are just three of the reasons the world’s oldest national park is beloved by our readers. Read more about our readers’ 14 Favorite U.S. National Parks and why you should make time for them in the near future.

Favorite Hidden Gem U.S. National Park

Badlands National Park , Interior, South Dakota — The stunning rock formations and valleys of the Badlands will take your breath away, and Badlands Loop Road makes for a great way to easily experience it all. Learn more about the 15 Best Hidden Gem National Parks In The U.S. , and why they might be a great alternative if you are looking to avoid the crowds.

Favorite U.S. National Monument, National Historic Site, Etc.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial , Keystone, South Dakota — The larger-than-life faces carved into the Black Hills of western South Dakota are a patriotic tribute to four of the most influential leaders in U.S. history, from its foundation and growth to its reunification and preservation. Discover each of our readers favorite national park properties , and why you should add them to your bucket list.

Favorite U.S. National Park Lodging

Old Faithful Inn, Yellowstone National Park — The six-story-tall log cabin is hard to miss when visiting Old Faithful, and a stay within its walls should be in your future. Experience each of the 11 Best Places To Stay In U.S. National Parks during your next visit to each great park.

Favorite U.S. National Park Hike

Rim Trail, Grand Canyon National Park — What makes the Rim Trail stand out above the rest is that it merges the stunning beauty of the area with accessibility, making it possible for everyone to enjoy. Read more about the 11 great hikes in U.S. National Parks that made this year’s list of finalists; how many have you explored?

Favorite National Park Outside Of The U.S.

Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada — It is fitting that one of the oldest national parks in the world would earn the Best Of Travel crown. Acres of rugged Rocky Mountain peaks and vast wilderness are just the beginning. Discover more about Banff as well as the other Best National Parks To Visit Outside Of The U.S.

Outdoor Activities

Favorite state park in the u.s..

Redwood National and State Parks , Crescent City, California — The towering redwood trees along the coast of northern California are a sight to be seen in this park that’s co-managed by the National Park Service. Learn more about each of the 15 Best State Parks To Visit Across The U.S. and make plans to visit each of them!

Favorite U.S. Beach

Waikiki Beach , Honolulu, Hawaii — The white sand and turquoise water set in the beautiful tropical paradise of Hawaii make Waikiki Beach an unforgettable experience for all with the good fortune of visiting. See why you should make plans to visit each of the 13 Beautiful Beaches In The U.S. Our Readers Love .

Favorite U.S. Botanical Garden

Myriad Botanical Gardens , Oklahoma City, Oklahoma — Located in the heart of downtown, this free garden makes the beauty of nature accessible to all. Read more about each of the 10 Best Botanical Gardens In The U.S. and what sets them above all others.

Favorite U.S. Zoo

San Diego Zoo , San Diego, California — It is not known as the “World Famous San Diego Zoo” for no reason, as our readers can attest. Each of the 9 Best Zoos To Visit In The U.S. to make our list of finalists is worth your time.

Favorite North American Ski Resort

Crested Butte Mountain Resort , Crested Butte, Colorado — This exciting ski resort in the middle of the Rockies is situated in a quaint town full of charm. Discover more about Crested Butte and each of the Amazing Ski Resorts In North America Our Readers Love .

Cruise Lines

Favorite alaska cruise line.

Royal Caribbean — With a dedicated fleet of ships serving Alaska, Royal Caribbean is ready to provide a whale’s-eye view of the vast glaciers and towering peaks that make up Alaska’s gorgeous and natural shoreline. Here are the 8 Best Alaska Cruise Lines according to our readers.

Favorite Caribbean Cruise Line

Royal Caribbean — Many cruise lines navigate the waters of the Caribbean, but none do it quite like Royal Caribbean. Learn what makes them stand out as the best of the 7 Best Caribbean Cruise Lines .

Favorite Mediterranean Cruise Line

Viking — Cruise the Mediterranean in style on a ship that caters to the mature traveler. Discover what makes Viking one of the 7 Best Mediterranean Cruise Lines .

Favorite Small Ship Cruise Line

Viking — Viking helped write the playbook on how to do a small ship cruise right, and if you don’t believe me, hopefully our readers will be able to convince you. Read more about each of the 5 Best Small Ship Cruise Lines named finalists in this year’s awards.

Favorite River Cruise Line

Viking — This is where it all started for Viking and what put them on the map. See why they top the list of the 6 Best River Cruise Lines , and why you should consider the other finalists as well.

Favorite Overall Cruise Line

Viking — After topping three of the five cruise line categories, it should come as no surprise that our readers named it the best overall. Curious who else made the cut? Here is the full list of Our 10 Favorite Cruise Lines In The World .

Favorite U.S. Airline

Southwest Airlines — Free checked bags, a liberal cancelation policy, and a comparatively lower cost top the reasons why our readers prefer Southwest to other U.S. airlines. Curious how other airlines stacked up against each other? Here are the 5 Best U.S. Airlines according to our readers.

Favorite International Airline

Lufthansa — Enjoy your in-flight meal on fine china from an airline dedicated to sustainability. Discover more about each of the 10 Best International Airlines Our Readers Love .

Favorite Airline Rewards Program

Rapid Rewards, Southwest Airlines — Simply put, Southwest is, well, simple . And their rewards program ensures their loyal customers keep coming back, flight after flight. Read more about what makes Southwest’s Rapid Rewards one of the 3 Top Airline Rewards Programs, In The Eyes Of Our Readers .

Favorite U.S. Airport

Denver International Airport (DEN) — Readers love the stunning views of the Rockies as their flights arrive in and leave out of DEN. See what else makes it stand out as one of the 8 Top Airports In The U.S.

Favorite Airport Outside Of The U.S.

London Heathrow Airport (LHR) — What makes Heathrow one of the 6 Top Airports Around The World ? In a word, convenience : The London Underground connects each of the passenger terminals to the city center as well as King’s Cross train station, allowing for ease of transfers.

Hotels & Resorts

Favorite luxury hotel.

Fairmont Banff Springs , Banff, Alberta, Canada — Framed by the surrounding mountains, and with access to area hot springs, Fairmont Banff Springs is the definition of luxury and comfort. Learn more about each of The Top 9 Luxury Hotels from around the world.

Favorite Family-Friendly Resort

Disney’s Beach Club Resort, Orlando, Florida & The Resort At Schlitterbahn, New Braunfels, Texas (Tie) — The Disney Beach Club resort includes an on-site water park and convenient access to nearby EPCOT. The Resort At Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels includes four different water parks in one, giving families plenty to keep them busy.

Read more about each of the 6 Best Family-Friendly Resorts In The U.S. to decide which one is right for a getaway with your nearest and dearest.

Favorite All-Inclusive Resort

Jade Mountain Resort , Saint Lucia — Access to a private ocean-view infinity pool with each suite ensured Jade Mountain its top spot this year. Learn more about each of the 8 Best All-Inclusive Resorts from around the world.

Favorite Glamping Experience

Camp Fimfo Texas Hill Country , New Braunfels, Texas — Readers love gorgeous Texas Hill Country, and the multiple glamping options available that range from miniature cabins to standard RV sites. Discover what makes each of the 6 Best Glamping Experiences In The U.S. unique.

Favorite Resort Worldwide

Koʻa Kea Hotel & Resort at Poipu Beach , Hawaii, United States — The intimate setting of this boutique resort ensures that you won’t get lost in the crowd. Read about all 10 Of The Best Resorts Our Readers Love as you consider your next resort stay.

Favorite Bed & Breakfast

Sophie’s Gasthaus , New Braunfels, Texas — Charming rooms and an outdoor pool with a nearby garden make Sophie’s Gasthaus a perfect addition to any New Braunfels visit. Here are the 10 Best Bed And Breakfasts Our Readers Love to consider for your next weekend away.

Favorite Hotel Rewards Program

Marriott Bonvoy Rewards Program — With access to over 8,000 different properties in over 130 countries, our readers have spoken up and declared Marriott Bonvoy the victor. Read all about each of the 4 Best Hotel Rewards Programs .

Favorite Overall Hotel Group

Marriott — A fantastic rewards program and a business model that focuses on putting the customer first helped set Marriott apart from their competitors. Learn more about each of our readers’ 5 Favorite Hotel Brands .

Food & Drink

Restaurant with the best view.

TEN 3 , Albuquerque, New Mexico — Looking down on the city of Albuquerque a full mile below, TEN 3 affords diners panoramic views of the city and beyond. Enjoy each of the 14 Top Restaurants With A View, As Selected By Our Readers .

Favorite Splurge-Worthy Restaurant

Commander’s Palace , New Orleans, Louisiana — Locally sourced, fresh ingredients make the vibrant flavors of this Creole eatery all the more enjoyable, and worth the splurge. See how the other finalists fared in 14 All-Time Favorite Splurge-Worthy Restaurants .

Favorite BBQ Restaurant

Cackle & Oink BBQ , Sherman, Texas — Pitmaster Aaron has worked hard perfecting his award-winning baby back ribs, which you simply have to sample the next time you pass through Sherman. Reading through all 10 Of The Best BBQ Restaurants In The U.S. and what they are best known for will have your mouth watering.

Favorite Steakhouse

The Cedar Room , North Platte, Nebraska — The Cedar Room is a modern steakhouse with a rustic feel, and our readers’ favorite steak house for 2022. Learn more about each of the 11 Best Steakhouses In The U.S. and prepare a trip to sample their steaks (and beyond!) as soon as you are able.

Favorite Seafood Restaurant

Hudson’s Seafood House On The Docks , Hilton Head Island, South Carolina — With much of the fish caught on their very own dock, you know you can expect superb flavor and freshness with every bite. Read about each of the 9 Best Seafood Restaurants In The U.S.

Favorite Wine Region In The U.S.

Texas Hill Country — If you haven’t visited Texas Hill Country, their wine is one more fine reason to add the region to your list. See what makes each of these 9 Great U.S. Wine Regions perfect for your next getaway.

Favorite Craft Brewery

Pals Brewing Company , North Platte, Nebraska — With creative brew blends on tap along with more traditional options, you are bound to find a flavor to satisfy your palate. Discover our picks for the best brews to choose from each of the 10 Best Craft Breweries Our Readers Love .

Favorite Ice Cream Shop

Cali Cream Homemade Ice Cream , San Diego, California — With over 55 flavors served daily, and ice cream flights for those who struggle to pick just one favorite, Cali Cream is a frozen dessert-lovers paradise. Each of the 13 Best Ice Cream Shops Our Readers Love was named a finalist for a reason, so make sure to consider each and every one of them.

He has traveled to 44 states and has taken several trips outside of the U.S.; he experienced London as a tourist during college and took immersive trips to both Mexico City and Athens through a former career with a college student ministry. One of his favorite travel memories was serving a Christmas meal to refugees in Athens and hearing their stories of hope; Athens is truly the crossroads of European, Asian, African, and Middle Eastern cultures and shouldn't be missed!

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The Best Travel Outfits For Women That Blend Comfort With Style

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The best travel outfits for women blend comfort with style, prioritizing moisture-wicking fabrics that feel light and breathable but still look polished. After ranking our favorites—including those we’ve personally worn—we researched best-selling items from a variety of top retailers and took into account trends and reviews. Our top picks include the viral Tanming Women’s 2-Piece Lounge Set , the silky soft Cozy Earth Women's Bamboo Jogger Pant and these cozy On Cloud 5 sneakers .

The best airport outfits blend comfort with style, prioritizing breathable foot support and plush, ... [+] moisture-wicking fabrics while never skimping on what looks best.

While lugging suitcases through the airport and waiting on busy security lines can be hectic, bringing along the right outfit, shoes and accessories can provide much-needed comfort. For more options, read our guides to the best travel pants for women , best crossbody bags for travel and best travel totes . Below, the best travel outfits for women in 2024.

The 6 Best Linen Sheets Sets, Based On Our Firsthand Expert Testing

The best maternity jeans to flatter every baby bump, editor’s picks:.

• Best Lounge Set: Tanming 2-Piece Lounge Set
• Best T-Shirt: Unbound Merino Women's Crew Neck T‑Shirt
• Best Coat: J.Crew New Icon Trench
• Best Cardigan: American Eagle AE Crew Neck Lady Cardigan
• Best Travel Pant: Cozy Earth Women's Bamboo Jogger Pant
• Best Jeans: Good American Soft-Tech Good Legs Straight Jeans
• Best Travel Shoes: On Cloud 5
• Best Travel Tote: Cuyana Classic Easy Tote

Best Lounge Sets

Chic and versatile, tanming women's 2-piece lounge set.

I am a New York-based editorial assistant working across the beauty, fashion, travel and home & kitchen categories. Prior to joining Forbes Vetted, I served in an editorial role at HarperCollins. My work has also been featured in Make Muse and The Common. I hold a bachelor's degrees in English and psychology from Amherst College, and attended the Columbia Publishing Course.

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Featuring a chic knit top and wide-leg palazzo trousers, this popular lounge set is the embodiment of effortless style—and is also incredibly comfortable. It comes in nine trendy colors (including blue, pink and Khaki) for on-the-go versatility, and can easily be dressed up or down with light accessories.

Soft, Simple And Great For Long Flights

Skims cotton fleece classic hoodie and jogger.

Skims’ super soft lounge set is perfect for staying cozy on long flights. The hoodie features kangaroo pockets and a double-lined hood, while the jogger has an interior drawcord so you can adjust the fit as needed.

Flowy Fit For All-Day Elegance

Monos sevilla top and pants.

When they’re not engineering top-of-the-line luggage , Monos is also designing comfy lounge sets to keep you snug on your journey. Enter their Sevilla loungewear: If a more flared look is what you seek, this bamboo-cotton set will impress with its flowy, relaxed fit and airy drape.

Light And Moisture-Wicking

Unbound Merino

Unbound Merino Women's Crew Neck T‑Shirt

Unbound Merino’s tops have been praised for their moisture-wicking properties, and this simple crewneck tee remains no exception. It’s made of luxuriously light, Merino wool fibers that are wrinkle-free and wear-and-tear resistant. Forbes Vetted senior travel editor Astrid Taran has been wearing this top on a number of recent flights and praises its breathability.

Stretchy And Great For Layering

Alo sheer glow tank.

Dressing for travel is all about layering—which is why we recommend this closet staple from Alo. Throw it on beneath a light jacket to keep yourself warm on your long plane ride.

Trendy Hem, Relaxed Silhouette

Athleta seasoft bubble hem hoodie.

Cooling fabric? Check. Sustainably sourced fibers? Of course—this trendy, bubble-hem hoodie from Athleta has it all.  Feel free to store your passport and other essentials in its roomy pockets while you rush from terminal to terminal.

Elegant And Warm

Quince mongolian cashmere fisherman crewneck sweater.

As far as ribbed crewnecks go, this cozy sweater from Quince hits all the marks for quality: Its sustainably-sourced cashmere fabric is both durable and stylish, keeping travelers warm while looking good. Winter travelers can pair it with a stretchy jean and simple statement jewelry.

Best Outerwear

Light and reversible with hidden pockets, lululemon women's reversible insulated bomber jacket.

Another layering essential, this reversible bomber jacket is lightly insulated on the inside and out for versatile wear. Bonus: Its pockets have hidden sleeves on both sides, perfect for keeping your valuables and travel docs secure.

Instantly Upgrades Any Travel Outfit

J.crew new icon trench.

An update on their popular 2011 design, J.Crew’s new Icon Trench now has a removable hood and comes in a relaxed, classic fit for day-to-day travels. It falls just at the knee, with welt pockets, sleek button closures and an adjustable belt that are sure to turn heads between terminals.

Understated Yet Elevated

American Eagle

American Eagle AE Crew Neck Lady Cardigan

For a lightweight outer layer, snag this soft, knit cardigan from American Eagle. Designers modeled it to emulate Parisian high fashion styles, and it comes in six colors to instantly elevate any on-the-go ensemble. Note: Some reviewers suggest ordering a size down.

Best Travel Pants

Bamboo fabric, super soft feel, cozy earth women's bamboo jogger pant.

These joggers from Cozy Earth are made from the brand’s famous, temperature-regulating bamboo viscose, which is why we deemed it our most comfortable pick in our roundup of the best travel pants for women . Its cinched waistband is extremely flattering, and its side pockets are perfectly tailored to fit phones. “This is my go-to travel pant,” says Taran. “It’s one of the softest pairs of pants I own.”

Weightless, On-The-Go Leggings

Lululemon align high-rise pant.

Pair these buttery-soft leggings with an oversized hoodie for the ultimate comfy, weightless travel look. The brand claims they’re so stretchy and breathable, in fact, that you might even forget you have them on.

Stretchy And Body-Shaping

Good American

Good American Soft-Tech Good Legs Straight Jeans

Khloe Kardashian’s Good American jeans are beloved for their tummy-smoothing technology and plush, cotton feel. These Soft-Tech Straight Jeans from the brand stand out in particular for their sculpting effect; style them with a pair of comfortable heels for a striking yet casual jet-setting look.

Breezy Shorts Under $50

Uniqlo ultra stretch airism shorts.

While shorts aren’t everyone’s airport go-to’s, these flared ones from Uniqlo can make getting around a breeze. They feature ultra-stretchy fabric with extra room at the hips, and fall in a soft drape around the thighs—and all at a relatively affordable price.

Best Travel Shoes

Cloud-like cushioning.

A perennially popular footwear pick here at Forbes Vetted, this shoe continues to top a variety of our lists, including the Best Shoes For Standing All Day and the Best Walking Shoes For Women . It has cloud-like cushioning and a molded heel for ample support, with a mesh upper that stops your feet from getting too hot. In other words, it will keep your feet happy even when you’re stuck on a seemingly endless airport security line.

Great Arch Support And Easy To Slide On And Off

Vivaia water-repellent sneaker boot sliders.

These shoes from Vivaia aren’t quite sneakers and aren’t quite boots, but rather something in-between—which makes them the perfect, stretchy footwear option for long treks around the airport. Simply slip them on and you’re ready to go; with their lightweight, cushiony arch support, they’re sure to become an instant travel essential.

Timeless And Comfy

BIrkenstock

Birkenstock Arizona Birko-Flor

Let’s be real—you’d be hard-pressed to not find a few of your fellow passengers sporting these, and for good reason. Birkenstock’s timeless Arizona design has persisted since 1973 due to its supportive cork-latex footbed that molds to the contours of your foot, making it a comfy cult-classic for jet-setters everywhere.

Best Accessories

Classic and effortless.

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Women's New York Yankees '47 Navy Adjustable Hat

Whether you wear them to rep your home team or just for the aesthetics, baseball caps remain forever in style—and have also become an important part of current airport fashion trends. Loop your ponytail through the back and pair it with a plush lounge set for that classic, effortless look.

Provides Sun Protection

Madewell lantern straw hat.

If you’re headed for a tropical destination, consider saving on luggage space by wearing your sun hat to the airport. This straw number from Madewell comes in four handwoven, embroidered options.

Sleek, Quiet Design

Bose quietcomfort ultra.

No trip is complete without a set of noise-cancelling headphones to ease your flight. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra was chosen as our top overall pick in our roundup of the Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones thanks to their crisp sound quality, deep base reverb and sleek design. 

Spacious Yet Stylish

Cuyana classic easy tote.

Don’t let its minimal design fool you: This stylish, Italian leather tote from Cuyana has enough space to fit a laptop (up to 16 inches), your passport, wallet and more. Its double-strapped handles allow you to carry heavier essentials with ease. If you crave even more space, check out the bag’s accompanying tote insert to add extra room. In her review of this bag, Taran praised its quality, durability and style.

A Versatile Crossbody Option

Lo & Sons

Lo & Sons Waverley 2

Another leather favorite, this Lo & Sons bag not only sits at the hip with its adjustable strap, but can also be worn in three other different ways: as a chic clutch, belt bag or shoulder bag. Its adjustable styles can compliment just about any travel outfit, which is why we deemed it our favorite versatile pick in our list of the Best Crossbody Bags For Travel .

Why Trust Forbes Vetted

• Here at Forbes Vetted, our team has performed thorough research for dozens of travel product stories, from the Best Travel Toiletry Bags to the Best Compression Socks For Travel .
• This article was written by Whitney Bruno , a lifestyle editorial assistant who writes across the beauty, fashion, travel and home & kitchen categories. She has written travel apparel guides, including a guide to the Best Travel Pants For Women .
• Senior travel editor Astrid Taran , who’s covered the ins and outs of hotels, cruises and travel-related accessories for over seven years, has overseen the editing of this article and contributed several picks that she has worn on trips.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is best to wear to the airport.

Comfortable, moisture-wicking clothes like joggers, leggings and lounge sets are best to wear to the airport—especially if you anticipate standing in lengthy security lines or sitting on a longer flight. Some of our favorite, cozy airport essentials include the Skims Cotton Fleece Classic Hoodie And Jogger , the Good American Soft-Tech Good Legs Straight Jeans and the On Cloud 5 sneakers.

What Is The Best Outfit To Wear On A Plane?

Outfits made up of soft, loose-fitting clothes are the best to wear on a plane. Loungewear, sweat sets and athleisure are incredibly popular plane fashion items for that reason: They’re made of flexible fabrics that provide extra comfort. For a fashionable upgrade, you can match a lux hoodie and joggers with simple accessories, such as a travel tote, baseball cap or headphones. You can also layer a simple tee/tank with a statement jacket or coat in a louder color.

For shoes, seek out footwear with plenty of cushioning and arch support. Sneakers tend to fit the bill, but a supportive boot or sandal will do just as well.

What Is The Best Color To Wear To The Airport?

Neutral colors are the best to wear to the airport; you can always easily dress a neutral outfit up or down. This gives you a lot of leeway to re-wear your pieces regardless if you’re traveling for business or pleasure.

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The Very Best Place Mats, According to People Whose Taste We Trust

In this article

Round place mats, rectangular place mats, scalloped place mats.

This week on the Strategist, we’re covering all things tabletop: the best plates, yes, and also everything that goes around (and underneath) them. Welcome to  Tabletop Week .

Whether woven with rattan or ramie, accentuated by scallops or stripes, or plain and simple, place mats do much more than just protect your table against heat, cold, and food (though that’s important, too). They’re a tabletop piece that, when factored into an overall tablescape, can transform a blandly set table into a spread that’ll have guests reminiscing about more than just the food. And, like tablecloths or drinking glasses , place mats are pieces that you can collect over time. “You’re not going to go and say, ‘You know what? Today, I’m going to buy every tablescape item for the rest of my life,’” advises Saanya Ali, writer and founder of the site SOIRÉE . “It’s something that the pieces come to you, but bit by bit you’re building your arsenal.”

To help you build that arsenal, I spoke to more than 12 stylish people — including cookbook authors, store owners, and interior designers, plus the members of the Strategist staff — about their favorite place mats. Here you’ll find handcrafted mats from artisans in Mexico, kid-proof mats that actually look nice, and plenty of other options in a variety of interesting shapes and sizes. And to help you better achieve your tabletop vision, I sorted the place mats by shape and included picks at a variety of price points.

Strategist contributor Kiki Aranita pulls these colorful woven place mats out for special occasion meals where she wants to bring a bit of color to her table. The place mats are made of palm leaves that Guanajuato artisans have dyed, woven, and machine-stitched on top (just note: if you are using these on a lighter-colored table or with a light-colored plate, Aranita says the color can transfer). If you’re looking to add just a spot of color here and there, alternate these with any of the more neutral-colored place mats, which you’ll find below.

“This won’t come as a surprise to anyone who reads my newsletter Dinner: A Love Story , but when I’m sitting at a dinner table — whether it’s in the dining room or kitchen — I feel like something is missing if there are no place mats,” says author Jenny Rosenstrach . Her current favorite is a round natural rattan option that she inherited from her mother-in-law and that looks similar to these, which are available in three washes: a slate gray, honey brown, and natural rattan. “I feel like they’d be just as appropriate for a beach house as they are in my New York apartment,” she says. When not in use, the place mats “sit in a stack in the middle of my dining room table, propping up a fruit bowl or, right now, a bowl of decorative gourds,” Rosenstrach tells me, adding, “Yes, I am that person.”

These ones, which are slightly smaller and slightly cheaper than the Crate & Barrel place mats, are cookbook author and food writer Arlyn Osborne ’s go-to place mats. She says, “I like more of a round version, just to keep everything really neat and to mimic the shape of the plates.” Osborne finds that these are particularly useful because you can easily run them under water when they get dirty. And if you only have room for one set of place mats, she advises that these go with everything. “You can use it year round, from holiday stuff to summer,” Osborne says.

If you’d rather an oval place mat that’s also handmade, go with Strategist senior editor Hilary Reid ’s recommendation. It’s a woven place mat from Etsy that’s similar to a set that she got while on vacation in Jamaica. “I leave them on my table pretty much all the time, and love that the woven grass adds some texture on top of whatever tablecloth is underneath,” she says. Plus, she says washing them isn’t a drag: “It’s more of a shake them out after using situation.”

These place mats are made of recycled leather, and if you’re wondering what that feels like, recipe developer and food writer Rebecca Firkser describes it as having a slippery rather than buttery hand-feel. Over the years, she’s tried a variety of place mats, and these are the only ones that she’s stuck with. “They did exactly what I needed them to do: They keep the table clear, but they feel a little bit simple, but still fun-looking,” she adds. Since she owns them in four different colors, Firkser typically pairs them with an assortment of mismatched plates for an eclectic look. And at the end of the night, there’s no fuss: “I feel like you could just smear anything on them, and then they just wipe clean really quickly,” she says.

Recipe developer and fashion designer Peter Som describes these woven place mats as his “everyday” set. Like Reid’s woven oval mats, these are “woven in a nice tight weave in a natural tone that goes with any place setting,” he says. The higher price comes from the place mat’s origin: the Philippines, where artisans weave them by hand. And since they’re finished with a layer of lacquer, Som reports that “they wipe dry easily.”

Anna Polonsky, founder of the branding and design consultancy Polonsky & Friends , has been using these as her everyday place mats for nearly four years. “We had met Mariana Suarez over the years before she started her brand,” Polonsky says of her and her husband, adding that when the brand launched, “We fell in love with her collection.” Unlike the Zinnia place mats earlier on this list, these deep rust colored ones don’t transfer color and are made to last. “We’ve never had to change them, and we use them all the time,” she says. “There’s never an issue of wine stains or stains that don’t go away.”

Fabiana Faria and Helena Barquet, the owners of Coming Soon , have long carried Gaetano Pesce’s striking vessels in their store, but were always intrigued by his playful place mats. Today, these are the place mats that live on their own kitchen table — and they’re remarkably durable because they’re made of resin. “You can’t stain them because they’re not fabric,” Faria says. “And they’re such a fun pop of color.” When not in use, you can leave them on the table, or follow Barquet’s tip: “You can also stick them on your window and it looks like stained glass,” she says.

Edy Massih, cookbook author and owner of Edy’s Grocer , uses these mats more for décor than for protecting his dining room table. “They go really well with the space because they’re brown and our space is brown and our table is also brown,” he says. But if brown isn’t your thing, the faux- leather place mats also come in ivory, black, and gray. And whether you use it for eating or for decorating, the place mat “makes it a little bit more elegant, and it gives you that feeling that you’re at a restaurant,” he says.

Molly Torres Portnof, a designer and the founder of design studio Date Interiors , recommends pairing this place mat with a wooden table, but adds that it goes well with a variety of styles “to either funk up a space or just kind of meld in with whatever the rest of the aesthetic of the kitchen or dining room is.” And despite sporting more natural colors, the placement is “just so beautiful, textural, and pretty simple,” she says.

[Editor’s Note: These gingham place mats are currently out of stock, but we’ll let you know when they’re back in stock.]

“‘Easy to wipe down’ is a key requirement of place mats in my household that involves children,” says Strategist senior editor Jen Trolio . These are flexible, which makes them more difficult to wipe down in the sink, but they’ve held up for more than three years in Trolio’s home. As far as kid-proof place mats go, it’s hard to get better than these, which come in a variety of reversible options. “You have to be okay with bright colors and kitsch,” Trolio adds. (If you’d like a kid-friendly option that’s more rigid, she recommends these delightful, and very affordable, ones from Target .)

For everyday meals and for toning down a tablescape that involves her Mexican Palma place mats, Aranita swears by these, which she typically buys in bulk as gifts when she goes back to Hawaii, where she grew up. They do wear down over time, but Aranita says that she is “extremely not gentle with them” and has cycled through many for nearly 20 years. “I wipe them down with sanitizer after use, but I’ve also hand washed them with soap and water,” she tells me.

Though Reid isn’t typically a fan of gingham, she says the black trim on these “makes them slightly more formal and refined” than the typical picnic-y vibe associated with the pattern. She’s been using these for over three years and finds that “they’ve held up well after several machine washes and air dries, and don’t get too wrinkly when they’re dried on a regular drying rack.” When it comes to using them for dining, she likes to pair them with some checkered napkins from the same line . And for a real statement, she says, “I’ll put the whole setup on top of a white linen tablecloth, which really makes them pop and almost look a little graphic.”

Faria initially recommended these place mats to us in 2020, and the place mats are still a mainstay in her and Barquet’s rotation — “and we have plenty of place mats,” Faria adds. After a decade of use, the place mats have only suffered a little fading, so you’ll be able to enjoy the vibrant fern scene for years to come. To clean, just throw them in the wash as they’re printed on half-cotton, half-linen material.

“Everything that Dusen Dusen does, I’m in love with,” Ali says — and that includes the brand’s striped place mats, which come in a variety of vibrant color combinations, including a delightful lilac and sage green pairing. “A two-color or three-color stripe [combination] lends itself to so many different iterations if you can play with one of the colors,” she says. And if you mix multiple stripe combinations — as Dusen Dusen allows with its mixed place-mat option — your tablescaping skills are top notch.

Inspired by her childhood in France, Ali has a soft spot for Provençal-style place-mats like these, which feature botanical designs. Though the ones her family uses are from France, these linen ones are the most similar mats that she’s been able to find over the years. Designed by Parisian artist Bruno Lamy, the mats are handmade by Indian artisans because of Lamy’s passion for the age-old Indian technique of hand-block printing.

Your average place mat is going to be round or rectangular, but scalloped ones will add more dimension to your table. Of the many scalloped options that Torres Portnof recommends, this flower-shaped one is especially durable because it’s made of banana bark, which can withstand cleaning with a damp towel. Torres Portnof recommends pairing these with a tablecloth. “If you’re doing a tablecloth, you don’t really want another fabric material on top of that because that can just look cumbersome and too much,” she advises. “But because the petal fiber is a woven fiber, that could look good against a normal cotton or linen tablecloth.”

If you’re looking for something that will “make the table pop on its own,” Massih recommends these, which he discovered from his prop stylist when they were shooting his cookbook, Keep It Zesty . They’re on Ali’s wish list, too. And since she has Gilmore Girls on the brain, she’d like to place the olive ones in an autumnal tablescape that includes gold flatware, eucalyptus leaves, terracotta glasses, and mustard-colored plates. Just note: Massih says you’ll have to iron them after a wash. “And who has time to iron anything nowadays,” he adds.

Torres Portnof typically shops at smaller vendors — Coming Soon in particular — when she wants something special to punch up an otherwise “too non-personal” table. This place mat, which is striped, scalloped, and a bit shimmery, “fits that bill,” she says. Gohar also makes non-striped ones that feature feet-shaped pearls, and are some of Faria and Barquet’s favorite place mats, too. “Their linen quality is just really fantastic,” Faria says. “It’s so nice to just touch and interact with all of the linens that they make.”

Polonsky rotates between these jewel-toned place mats and her Plaza Bolivar place mats. These take the scalloping to a new level with the addition of half moon cutouts and whimsical patches featuring flowers and such. “I think it doesn’t work for everyone,” Polonsky says, “But for us, we have pretty neutral ceramics — it’s all clay but it’s kind of imperfect, but it’s not crazy colorful — and so I love to have more colorful place mats.” Just note: you’ll have to take these velvet place mats to the dry cleaners.

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