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The 25 Best Couples Vacations Around the World for 2024-2025

When thinking about the best couples vacations around the world, it would be easy to highlight obvious places like Paris and Venice, but our aim for this list is to go beyond the clichés and give you ideas for romantic getaways you might not have thought of. After all, some of the best bonding experiences come from exploring a new place together and making memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you're planning a honeymoon , anniversary trip , birthday vacation or some other kind of romantic getaway , these couples trip ideas have something for everyone.

Taking into account the top travel trends of 2024 , we curated a list of couples vacations that offer a wide range of experiences for every taste and budget. Whether you're just planning a quick getaway close to home or are looking for mythical places that are worth jetting around the world for, consider this list your go-to guide for the best couples vacations to take in 2024-2025.

Umbria, Italy

The secret is out about Umbria, Italy's green heart. Right in the center of the country, only a couple of hours from Rome, it looks a lot like Tuscany but without the crowds. Expect rolling hills dotted with vineyards and olive groves, Medieval hill towns, and country retreats. Oh and did we mention the food? In particular, Umbria is known for black truffles and artisanal charcuterie. The top towns to visit include Orvieto, Perugia, and Assisi, but it's a good idea to rent a car so you can explore the countryside too.

Where to Stay: Castello di Reschio is a luxury boutique hotel in an 11th century castle owned by a count who also happens to be an architect and designed the exceedingly chic property himself. Vocabolo Moscatelli is a design-centric hotel in a 12th-century monastery in a small town near Perugia.

Vienna, Austria

Forget Paris—Vienna is one of the most beautiful European capitals and if you and your spouse love history and culture, you'll have more than enough to do no matter the season. The Austrian capital consistently ranks as the world's most liveable city and some of the things that make it so liveable (good culture and entertainment, reliable infrastructure) make it a great place to visit too. Between the imperial palaces, myriad art museums, classical concerts, and cozy coffeehouses, it's the perfect destination for a European city break.

Where to Stay: A member of the Leading Hotels of the World, Hotel Sacher Vienna is the city's historic grand dame and home to the original Sacher-torte. For a more modern take on Viennese hospitality, the buzzy new Rosewood Vienna is your best bet.

The Maldives

This island nation ranks among the best honeymoon destinations and one of the best destinations for an anniversary trip . It's no wonder—the beach resorts set on private islands are made for romantic getaways. Whether you and your spouse want to simply relax on the beaches or pursue more active pursuits like snorkeling, jet skiing, or practicing sunrise yoga, you'll find plenty of opportunities to relax and recharge together.

Where to Stay: Sister resorts JOALI Maldives and JOALI Being focus on artful stays and wellness, respectively.

An African safari is a classic couples trip and one of the best safari destinations is the Serengeti in Tanzania. January through March is calving season for the wildebeest in the southern Serengeti, which will then start moving toward Kenya in a phenomenon known as the Great Migration. But no matter when you visit the Serengeti, you're sure to see plenty of wildlife and unforgettable experiences like a hot air balloon ride over the savannah. For a bit of a beach escape at the end of your safari, add on a few days in Zanzibar.

Where to Stay: Serengeti Bushtops Camp and Roving Bushtops are small boutique camps set within the Serengeti National Park. Meanwhile, Singita Sabora Tented Camp and Singita Sasakwa Lodge are located nearby in the Grumeti Game Reserve, a private concession dedicated to conservation.

For outdoorsy couples who love to spend time in nature and want a bit of a digital detox, Vermont is a great choice. Known as the Green Mountain State, it has plenty of beautiful places to go hiking or skiing in the winter, quaint New England towns, and opportunities to enjoy lake life. Every season brings its own charms, but the fall foliage in Vermont is especially beautiful. And while you might associate all-inclusive resorts with the Caribbean, one of the country's best all-inclusive hotels is located in Barnard, Vermont.

Where to Stay: Twin Farms in Barnard is an all-inclusive Relais & Châteaux resort where you can explore the trails, picnic by the pond, and go fishing or foraging. The Woodstock Inn & Resort in the quaint town of Woodstock oozes historic New England charm.

Porto, Portugal

Portugal's second largest city has much of the same charm as Lisbon, but is a bit less crowded. In this hilly city, you'll enjoy spotting azulejos (the traditional tiles that cover Portuguese buildings), sampling Portuguese cuisine, strolling along the banks of the Douro River, and touring historic port cellars like Graham's Lodge, where the British royal family's port wine is aged. It's also a good jumping off point to visit the scenic Douro Valley wine region.

Where to Stay: To be in the center of everything, Maison Albar Hotels - Le Monumental Palace is a great choice. This member of the Leading Hotels of the World has fantastic service, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and a wonderful spa. Vila Foz Hotel & Spa , a member of Design Hotels, is housed in a historic mansion overlooking the Atlantic.

Miami, Florida

For the fun-loving couple that wants to go somewhere with nice beaches, trendy restaurants, flamboyant hotels, buzzing nightlife, and a dash of art and design, it's hard to beat Miami. From the sleek Design District and hip Wynwood to flashy South Beach, there's something for everyone. You can take in art at the Perez Museum, dine at a celebrity chef's restaurant, relax on the beach, and go salsa dancing in Little Havana all in a day.

Where to Stay: In a city where each hotel is more over-the-top than the last, the Faena Miami Beach takes the cake. For a more subdued stay, check into the Asian-inspired Setai Miami Beach , the Betsy , or Acqualina Resort & Residences for Mediterranean vibes.

Phuket, Thailand

For a tropical romantic getaway with a dash of culture and deliciously spicy cuisine, you can't go wrong with a trip to Phuket, the largest island in Thailand. Expect beautiful beaches, quaint Sino-Portuguese architecture in the main town, fantastic food, and legendary nightlife. On a trip to Phuket, you can go kayaking and snorkeling, try a traditional Thai massage, take a cooking class, and even visit an elephant sanctuary. Many couples combine Phuket with a few days in Bangkok and perhaps a mountain destination like Chiang Mai.

Where to Stay: Located on a secluded cove on the northern side of the island, Trisara is ideal for couples whose priorities are relaxing rather than nightlife. Anantara Layan Phuket Resort is also highly rated.

Cape Town, South Africa

South Africa's capital is a vibrant waterfront city that makes a great honeymoon or anniversary trip for couples who crave beautiful scenery and a variety of experiences. The city has a thriving art scene, bustling waterfront full of shops and restaurants, as well as plenty of chances to bask in nature, whether you want to hike Table Mountain or spot penguins on Boulders Beach. It's also easy to do a day trip or overnight to the Cape Winelands or add on a safari in Kruger National Park.

Where to Stay: Ellerman House is an intimate Relais & Châteaux hotel with a formidable art collection, fantastic views of the coast, and a couple of standalone villas in addition to rooms in the main building. The Silo Hotel , meanwhile, is a tour de force of African design above the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art on the V&A Waterfront.

José Ignacio, Uruguay

Sometimes compared to Montauk, José Ignacio is Uruguay's coolest beach town, which draws people from neighboring Argentina as well as in-the-know travelers from the U.S. and Europe. And since it's in the southern hemisphere, it's the perfect warm weather escape during North American winters. Over the past few years, it's become a destination for art world insiders (a James Turrell Skyspace was inaugurated in 2021). It's also a good base for day trips to places like Punta del Este and Garzón, where you can visit the award-winning Bodega Garzón winery and dine at one of celebrity chef Francis Mallmann's restaurants.

Where to Stay: Family-owned Vik Retreats has not one but three art-focused hotels in and around José Ignacio ( Bahia Vik , Playa Vik , and Estancia Vik ). Posada Ayana is home to the aforementioned Turrell Skyspace.

Basque Country, Spain

For an alternative to Barcelona and Madrid, consider a trip to Basque Country in northern Spain. The area has a very large concentration of Michelin stars, making it a must for foodies. The most charming city in the region is San Sebastián, which is known for its beautiful beach and quaint city center full of narrow lanes packed with tapas bars (known as pintxos bars here). Bilbao is also worth visiting for its historic city center and the Guggenheim Bilbao, a feat of modern architecture with wonderful exhibitions.

Where to Stay: Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel has been an elegant beacon of hospitality since 1912. Gran Hotel Domine in Bilbao has a sleek, modern design and a convenient location across the street from the Guggenheim Bilbao.

Agra, India

A journey to India to see the Taj Mahal is a once-in-a-lifetime experience—and what better destination for a couples trip than to visit the monument Mughal emperor Shah Jahan built as a memorial for his beloved wife? It's worth an early wake-up call to go right when the monument opens at sunrise. There's an incredibly strong spiritual aura of peace and tranquility in the morning, before the crowds descend. And aside from the Taj Mahal, it's worth visiting historic sites like Agra Fort.

Where to Stay: Oberoi Amarvilas is the height of luxury, with white glove service, a massive pool, and views of the Taj Mahal. Guests of ITC Mughal, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Agra rave about the spa and manicured gardens.

For jet-setting couples who love the sea and the city, this Caribbean island with a French flair is the best of both worlds. On a romantic getaway here, you and your significant other can spend your days relaxing on beautiful beaches before spending evenings indulging in delicious food and nightlife in Gustavia, the island's capital. Pack your most stylish swimwear and get ready for a swanky island getaway. Or don't pack anything at all—there are plenty of chic boutiques where you can engage in some retail therapy.

Where to Stay: Le Sereno is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World with private villas and a pool overlooking the beach. Opened in the 1950s, Eden Rock , now a member of the Oetker Collection, has welcomed famous guests like Greta Garbo, Peggy Guggenheim, and Lee Radziwill.

Istanbul, Turkey

This bustling, cosmopolitan city where Europe meets Asia is one of the world's most mythical places. Once the seat of the Roman empire, the Byzantine empire, and the Ottoman empire, Istanbul is packed with incredible historic sites like Topkapi Palace and the Hagia Sophia, as well as bustling markets like the Grand Bazaar and modern art museums. If you and your spouse enjoy exploring big, busy cities, then Istanbul might just be the place for you.

Where to Stay: Çirağan Kempinski Palace is a legendary grand dame in an Ottoman palace overlooking the Bosphorus where you and your spouse can bond during a Turkish hammam treatment. The Peninsula Istanbul is the city's buzzy new luxury hotel in the Galataport district.

Savannah, Georgia

Take a big dose of history, a pinch of southern hospitality, and excellent cuisine, stir them up and you've got the recipe for a great couples trip in Savannah. Established in 1733, this charming city has cobblestone streets lined with stately homes, parks full of live oaks and Spanish moss, great shops, and a fantastic restaurant and bar scene. According to some, the city is also very haunted and there are plenty of ghost tours led by guides who will point out haunted houses and tell dark tales of murder and mayhem.

Where to Stay: The Perry Lane Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel has a fun rooftop bar and a bit of a retro design. The Alida Savannah , a member of Marriott's Tribute Portfolio, is housed in a converted warehouse on the riverfront and has a mid-century modern-inspired design.

Loire Valley, France

Sure, Paris may be more popular for couples, but if you want to see another side of France, consider a romantic getaway to the Loire Valley. About an hour from Paris by train, the area is known for its many Renaissance castles and small villages that look like something out of a fairytale. Some of the best castles to visit are the Château de Chambord, the Château de Chenonceau, and the Château du Clos Lucé, where Leonardo Da Vinci lived. Wine lovers should plan to visit the wineries in Sancerre, which produce crisp white wines beloved around the world.

Where to Stay: Aside from visiting castles, you can stay in one. The Hôtel Château du Grand-Lucé was built in 1760 and has been restored to its original glory with precious antiques and manicured gardens. Les Hauts de Loire was built as a 19th-century hunting lodge and is now a Relais & Châteaux hotel known for its Michelin-starred restaurant and cooking school.

Marfa, Texas

Art-loving couples should plan to make a pilgrimage to Marfa, a little town near the Mexican border with an outsized art scene. Ever since Donald Judd moved here in the 1970s and created the Chinati Foundation on an old army base, the town has attracted an artsy crowd. Many little galleries have popped up around town and it might be the only place in the U.S. where hipsters rub elbows with cowboys at dive bars like the Lost Horse Saloon. It's also close to Big Bend National Park, so it would be easy to combine art-spotting in Marfa with a hiking trip.

Where to Stay: Hotel Saint George is the town's most design-forward place to stay. For couples who don't mind roughing it a bit, El Cosmico is a collection of airstream trailers, yurts, tents and teepees that draws a bohemian crowd.

Kyoto, Japan

Japanese traditions live on in Kyoto, where couples can visit Shinto shrines like the famed Fushimi Inari Taisha with its bright orange gates, partake in tea ceremonies, and explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Go in the spring for cherry blossom season or in the fall to admire the changing colors of the leaves. No matter when you go, you'll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy delicious sushi, ramen, and other Japanese specialties and admire beautiful ceramics and other objects in the shops.

Where to Stay: Guests praise the wonderful staff, luxurious onsen, and delicious food at Hotel the Mitsui, a Luxury Collection Hotel . Ace Hotel Kyoto has a hip vibe and free bikes that guests can use to get around town.

Napa Valley and Sonoma County, California

Not just an easy escape for San Franciscans, northern California wine country draws travelers from all over the U.S. and beyond. Savoring gastronomic delights at Michelin-starred restaurants, wine tastings, hot air balloon rides, and scenic bike rides are just some of the activities couples can enjoy in this bucolic region. The laid-back vibes make it easy for couples to unwind and reconnect.

Where to Stay: Guest reviews of Montage, Healdsburg say that the property "transcends expectations," with special mention of the professional staff and delicious cuisine. Foodies celebrating a special occasion should book a stay at Single Thread Farms , which is known for its Michelin three-star restaurant and personalized service.

Paros, Greece

For a Greek Island escape without the crowds, consider one of the smaller Cycladic islands such as Paros. Comprising a handful of whitewashed villages, sandy beaches, and hidden coves, Paros is coming onto the radar of savvy travelers. The main town of Naoussa has a lively port, cute boutiques, and plenty of bars and restaurants where you can sample traditional and creative Greek cuisine.

Where to Stay: Parilio , a member of Design Hotels, is a popular choice for honeymoons and minimoons. Cosme, a Luxury Collection Resort has a great location right on the beach but within walking distance of Naoussa.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Adventurous couples ready to embark on a bucket list trip should set their sights on Machu Picchu in Peru. Start your trip with a few days in Cusco so you can get acclimated to the altitude before taking the luxurious Hiram Bingham train by Belmond up to the Incan citadel. Active travelers can also opt to hike the Inca Trail Route, which takes four days, or just hike the last section, which takes a day.

Where to Stay: Guests rave that Sanctuary Lodge, a Belmond Hotel is "above and beyond" and "well worth the price." Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is a popular choice in Aguas Calientes, where you can catch the train that takes you to Machu Picchu.

Marrakech, Morocco

Morocco's most dynamic city is a feast for the senses. From the bustling markets like Jemaa El Fna to peaceful gardens and riads, there's so much to do. Cultured couples should make sure to visit the Musée Yves Saint Laurent and the Jardin Majorelle, haggle in the souks, and sip Moroccan mint tea or coffee at Bacha, a beautiful colonial-inspired café inside the Musée des Confluences. You can even do a sidecar tour of the medina with Marrakech Insiders.

Where to Stay: The Royal Mansour and La Mamounia are both members of the Leading Hotels of the World, so you can expect top notch service at both. The former was created by King Mohammed VI as a celebration of Moroccan artisanship, while the latter recently celebrated its centenary.

Sydney, Australia

If you and your sweetie are itching for a far-flung trip, consider a couples getaway to the land down under. Sydney is a popular choice, as it's got a winning combination of urban vibes and beautiful beaches. Aside from the famed opera house on the harbor, you'll find great museums and sites in the CBD, hip restaurants and bars in cool neighborhoods like Surry Hills, and sandy beaches like Bondi Beach, with its famous saltwater pool.

Where to Stay: The Old Clare Hotel is a hip boutique hotel with an industrial-chic design in a pair of heritage buildings in Chippendale. Prefer to stay by the beach? QT Bondi puts you right in the heart of Bondi Beach.

Luang Prabang, Laos

Ready to get off the beaten path? This under-the-radar Southeast Asian city may not have bucket list sites like Angkor Wat, but it's a beautiful, relaxing, and very affordable destination. A former French colony, it has a fascinating mix of French and Buddhist architecture and culture. You can do a sunset cruise on the Mekong, shop at the night market, visit Buddhist temples, and head out of town to swim in Kuang Si Falls.

Where to Stay: At the Avani+ Luang Prabang you'll get a luxurious experience without paying five-star hotel prices. Rosewood Luang Prabang is a romantic resort with a gorgeous design and excellent service.

Ancient history and adventure collide in Egypt. Most tours of the country start in Cairo, with a visit to the Pyramids of Giza. In 2024, the Grand Egyptian Museum is finally slated to open, making it a great time to go. Then, of course, you should visit Luxor and the Valley of the Kings, where you can descend into incredibly preserved ancient tombs painted with figures and hieroglyphics. Cruise down the Nile and end in Aswan, visiting incredible temples along the way.

Where to Stay: Marriott Mena House in Cairo has views of the Pyramids, which can be seen from the manicured grounds. The Marsam Hotel in Luxor is popular among visiting archeologists. In Aswan, check into the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract , where Agatha Christie penned Death on the Nile .

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• What to Expect from Weddings in 2023 Engagement Ring Trends Wedding Dress Trends Wedding Décor Trends Wedding Food & Drink Trends Wedding Flower Trends Wedding Photo & Video Trends Honeymoon Trends

Travel Experts Share Honeymoon Trends to Expect in 2023

Once-in-a-lifetime and ultra-luxe honeymoons are back in.

FG Trade / Getty Images

Similar to the full-force resurgence of weddings we've seen since 2020 and 2021, the travel industry is also experiencing a major comeback. Travel is, in most parts of the world, returning to a sense of normalcy—and honeymooners are really here for it.

"Honeymooners are wanting to travel for longer durations of time and combine multiple destinations," notes Sarah Brook Austin of Travels by SB . "Destinations that their friends and families haven't been to are a consideration when determining an itinerary, as [they] are wanting to be trailblazers and discover new  destinations ."

Meet the Expert

• Sarah Brook Austin is a luxury travel advisor at Travels by SB, an independent affiliate of Travel Experts, Inc., a Virtuoso Agency.
• Tom Marchant is the co-founder of luxury tour operator Black Tomato .
• Laura Ritchie is the principal designer at Grit & Grace , a luxury event design and destination wedding planning company.
• Dr. Terika L. Haynes is the CEO and lead travel consultant of Dynamite Travel .
• Sarah Margulis is the CEO of  Honeyfund , a free honeymoon registry website.

In addition to traveling for longer periods of time, crossing destinations off of their bucket lists, and blazing new trails, couples are definitely opting for high-end experiences —which makes sense, considering travel was so limited for the past few years.

From booking those bucket list experiences to utilizing honeymoon funds instead of traditional registries, these are the honeymoon trends travel experts are already seeing for 2023.

cdwheatley / Getty Images

Honeymoons Planned Long After the Wedding

Do you know how traditionally a honeymoon took place right after the wedding? Picture it: The newlyweds would be whisked away in a car painted with "just married" and off to the airport they'd go, bags packed, and ready for a romantic getaway . Well in 2023, that's not really the vibe anymore. "We’ve noticed there is increasingly less of a rush for honeymoons to occur immediately following the event," says Tom Marchant, the co-founder of luxury tour operator Black Tomato . This means that couples are taking their time to decompress after the wedding, especially since they might be planning bigger, more ambitious trips (more on that below).

Tim Macpherson / Getty Images

Seasonally-Driven Locations and Experiences

This year, many couples are already starting to book their honeymoon around a specific season or experience. "For 2023, there’s a more acute focus on the experiences and destinations themselves," explains Marchant, "some of which are driven by seasonality and are often planned for several months after the wedding." For example, a couple who knows they want a cozy, wintery ski honeymoon will opt to wait until wintertime, regardless of when the wedding is.

Mikhail Sotnikov / Getty Images

Long, Multi-Destination Trips

Conceptually, honeymoon itineraries that include hopping from one destination to another (but maybe staying on one continent for the duration) are seeing a surge. "We’re seeing clients embrace   multi-destination travel—and therefore often longer trips—so as to experience not one but multiple destinations, cultures, and topographies on one trip," explains Marchant. He says one example might be Egypt, Jordan, and Turkey over the course of three-or-so weeks. "Some hot spots that are gaining popularity for next year include Patagonia, Argentina , and Chile, and definitely bucket-list safari trips such as Kenya and the Seychelles (which is an extraordinary beach-and-bush combination),” says Marchant.

AscentXmedia / Getty Images

Luxury and Bucket List Destination Travel

Bucket list travel is back—couples are going to continue opting for luxury experiences, long trips that require lots of planning, and that once-in-a-lifetime mentality that we so often associate with honeymoon travel . "Now that the world has re-opened, I am also seeing requests again for more far-flung, exotic, adventurous destinations like New Zealand , African safaris, Southeast Asia, and Patagonia, for example," says Austin. "Whether it is gorilla trekking in Rwanda, a boat day on the Amalfi Coast, seeing the Northern Lights, or taking a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Masai Mara followed by a champagne brunch in the bush, couples are prioritizing luxe, bucket-list experiences. My clients also love staying at luxurious properties that have a real sense of place for the area that they are in," she explains.

Laura Ritchie, the principal designer of Grit & Grace , is sensing a similar trend as we begin 2023. "We are noticing that our clients are booking experience-based honeymoons in Europe, Asia, and Africa. Think much more than just laying by the pool on an island with a cocktail but now planning excursions, hikes, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences in historical locations."

Photo by Hugo Coelho

Destination Weddings-Turned-Vacations

Some couples may even choose to turn their destination wedding into an extended vacation, further exploring the locale after their guests have left. They may opt for either a mini-moon or a full-on honeymoon right after the wedding in the destination, or explore areas close by to where the wedding took place. "The vacation time for destination weddings is becoming longer," explains Dr. Terika L. Haynes, the CEO and lead travel consultant of Dynamite Travel . "In the past, many couples have done weekend destination weddings (three to four nights) but now we are seeing couples host their guests for their destination wedding for four to seven nights," says Dr. Terika L. Haynes. Combining a destination wedding and a honeymoon can especially convenient for those who want to request one chunk of time off work, too.

martin-dm / Getty Images

Honeymoon Funds

Sarah Margulis, CEO of Honeyfund , says that she is seeing tons of newlyweds opt for a honeymoon fund rather than a traditional registry, in terms of wedding gifts. "Your wedding guests are going to love gifting toward your dream trip ," she shares. "Honeyfund's nearly one billion dollars in gifts is the proof, so share with confidence! Guests want to support your dreams."

Amanyara, Turks & Caicos / Photo by Ellie Nan Storck

Wellness and De-Stressing Honeymoons

Unsurprisingly, lots of couples just want to simply unwind and relax after all that wedding planning (which can be a bit stressful , as fun as the experience is!). Wellness-focused honeymoons will trend in 2023, including long, luxurious trips to high-end resorts that boast wellness-specific programming and top-tier spas (think Amanyara in Turks & Caicos, Sensai Lanai in Hawaii, and Castle Hot Springs in Arizona).

A Guide to 2023 Wedding Trends

What to Expect from Weddings in 2023

Engagement Ring Trends

Wedding Dress Trends

Wedding Décor Trends

Wedding Food & Drink Trends

Wedding Flower Trends

Wedding Photo & Video Trends

Honeymoon Trends

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Protect Your Trip »

The 34 best couples vacations.

These incredible trips are sure to inspire romance and relaxation.

(Getty Images) |

Relax and unwind or get ready for adventure on your next couples escape.

(Courtesy of Uncruise Adventures) |

Sail with UnCruise to Hawaii

Take a road trip through Wales

(Courtesy of Baros Maldives) |

Baros Maldives

New York City

Kasbah du Toubkal: Imlil, Morocco

Experience the northern lights and the Iditarod in Alaska

(Courtesy of South Dakota Department of Tourism) |

Take a road trip through South Dakota

(Courtesy of Son Brull Rural Sanctuary) |

Son Brull Rural Sanctuary: Pollença, Mallorca

Bardessono: Yountville, Napa Valley, California

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France

(Courtesy of Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort) |

Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort: Eagle Beach, Aruba

Ashford Castle: County Mayo, Ireland

(Courtesy of Acqualina Resort) |

Acqualina Resort: Sunny Isles Beach, Florida

Lucca, Italy

Sarasota, Florida

Sonoma County, California

Take a Christmas markets cruise in Europe

Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica

Awasi Atacama: San Pedro de Atacama, Chile

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Big Sur, California

Scottsdale, Arizona

Château Eza: Eze Village, France

Take a tour of U.S. national parks

Lake Tahoe, California

Drive down Route 100 in Vermont

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Greenville, South Carolina

Lisbon, Portugal

(Courtesy of Casa Palmero) |

Casa Palmero: Pebble Beach, California

(Courtesy of Song Saa Private Island) |

Song Saa Private Island: Cambodia

(Courtesy of COMO Parrot Cay) |

COMO Parrot Cay: Turks & Caicos

(Courtesy of Excellence Playa Mujeres) |

Excellence Playa Mujeres: Cancun, Mexico

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

• The Most Romantic Weekend Getaways in the U.S.
• Romantic Hotels Worth a Stay
• Relaxing & Romantic Babymoon Ideas
• Amazing Honeymoon Ideas

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The biggest travel trends for 2024

By Sarah Allard

If 2022 was all about a return to travel, then 2023 was the year we went further than ever before. Travellers took to the skies, rails, roads and seas to tick off major bucket-list moments, with Arctic adventures, luxury yacht cruises and even the first tourist trip into space .

In 2024, travellers will be putting what’s important to them front and centre of their plans, valuing deeper experiences that leave a positive impact, time spent with loved ones and wellness moments that last well after checkout. We’ll be choosing destinations carefully, slowing it down to enjoy the silence and the stars, indulging in our love of food in new and interesting places, and immersing ourselves in wellness practices that help us live longer.

These are the 20 travel trends likely to guide how we see the world in 2024.

Astro tourism

1. Astro tourism

What’s the trend? Astronomy, of course, is a field of study that has been around since the dawn of civilisation, and the act of gazing up at the stars has long been a source of soul-soothing wonder. Today, the more society falls deeper into an ever-expanding virtual world, the more we feel a need to broaden our horizons in the real universe. Astro tourism, or star bathing, is the act of travelling with the aim of catching sight of astronomical phenomena – disappearing to lands devoid of any pollution, crowds and traffic, where we can focus solely on the skies above and while away hours gazing at the stars, planets and constellations overhead.

Why will it matter in 2024? Increasingly, wellness-centric hotels and spas are creating the space for guests to gaze upwards, watching for comets, spying constellations and identifying patterns in the glittering expanse. In the UK, Port Lympne has opened the Lookout Bubble, a glass dome allowing guests to sprawl out on king-sized beds and study the stars. Further east on the Arabian Gulf, Zulal Wellness Resort is surrounded by the expanse of the Qatari desert – the ultimate destination for pollution-free astromancy, with dedicated workshops and stargazing sessions for families and children looking to learn more about the cosmos. Safari company Desert & Delta organises trips for travellers looking to soak up the stars across Botswana and Namibia, where guests can sleep in tents at remote locations such as the Makgadikgadi Pans, one of the world’s largest salt flats, and spend nights with uninterrupted star vistas. Similarly, Tswalu is a South African safari camp with star beds set on a sleep-out deck in the Korannaberg mountains. And 2024 happens to be a big year, astronomy-wise, from mind-boggling eclipses to spectacular meteor showers – plus, scientists are predicting the best displays of the northern lights in 20 years, according to the Guardian , as we approach the next solar maximum (the sun’s peak of its 11-year activity cycle). Olivia Morelli

2. Eco diving

What’s the trend? A rise in divers choosing their travel destinations based on the sustainability of the scuba centres, and having a more positive, regenerative impact on the ocean once there.

Why will it matter in 2024? In 2022, UK marine ecology charity The Reef-World Foundation found that 95 per cent of divers wanted to book with sustainable operators, but struggled to do so. In response to this, the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (Padi) launched its Eco Center accreditation on World Earth Day (22 April) 2023, with the United Nations Environment Program and Reef-World itself. The steps required to earn this green status are so rigorous – including sharing evidence of conservation activities and a real reduction in environmental footprint – that Padi advised operators to allow at least 12 months to hit the criteria, taking us to… Earth Day 2024. After an initial figure of just 11 worldwide, there are now 100, and Padi has set a goal to reach 660 by 2030 – a 10th of its membership. “South East Asia currently has the highest density (more than 20), along with the Caribbean ,” says Julie Andersen of Padi. So what does this mean for divers and their trips? “The type of conservation work done and reported on depends on the Eco Center,” Andersen explains. “Those in the Caribbean offer coral replanting programmes, key for regenerating coastlines. In Baja, Mexico , they’ve developed citizen science courses, collecting data for whale conservation.” There are also a number of new Padi courses being launched for any diver to take anywhere, including the Global Shark and Ray Census in August 2024, as well as the relaunch of the Coral Reef Conservation Specialty course before December. Becky Lucas

3. Home swapping

What’s the trend? Increasingly, discerning travellers are looking to stay away for longer stretches, while the rise of remote jobs post-pandemic means that working and living abroad has never been more appealing. The catch? Forking out on hefty accommodation fees while you’re at it. Enter home swapping: the perfect solution to guarantee yourself a (free) home abroad while you offer up your own in exchange – for weeks or even months at a time.

Why will it matter in 2024? As the cost of holidaying continues to climb, home swapping is an affordable alternative to splashing out on expensive hotels or Airbnbs. And while the concepts of couch surfing and house exchanges have existed for decades, several slick new platforms are redefining what home swapping looks like today. Twin City, which operates in cities as far-flung as Lisbon and Los Angeles , has curated a community of 1,100 plus carefully vetted users in just eight months. For an annual subscription fee of £150, members can find Twins to connect with through the platform, and are encouraged to exchange local recommendations for their city as well as their homes, enabling members to feel as if they’re swapping with a trusted friend rather than a stranger. Meanwhile, Kindred, a home-swapping platform where members rack ​​up credits for each night that they exchange homes, raised $15 million in funding this year to expand operations across the USA and Europe, and currently has 10,000 plus homes in more than 50 cities. Members simply pay a cleaning and service fee for each stay, while the cost of the stay itself is free. Or skip out on membership fees entirely and head straight to TikTok, where Gen Z appears to be spearheading the home-swapping movement on social media. Inspired by cult film The Holiday , trending tags #houseswap and #homeswap have garnered more than 23 and 20 million views respectively, with users utilising the platform as a means to advertise their homes, discover like-minded peers to swap with and document their adventures along the way. Gina Jackson

4. Train stations are the new food destinations

What’s the trend? Train stations around the world are usually passed through as quickly as possible, having not been designed for commuters to stay and hang out. Nowadays, as travel delays increase and visitors want more local experiences, it pays for train stations to welcome travellers with shops, restaurants and bars for them to explore. In an effort to create a more dynamic visitor experience, historic train stations are being revamped, with bespoke food and drink offerings as an integral part of the redesign.

Why will it matter in 2024? As train stations are renovated to accommodate more travellers and update old infrastructure, local restaurants and bars are being added to attract more customers. In 2023, the new Moynihan Train Hall in New York City became home to The Irish Exit, a bar from the team behind the acclaimed Dead Rabbit, and Yono Sushi by trendy BondST, plus outposts of beloved NYC restaurants Pastrami Queen and Jacob’s Pickles, with Mexican hotspot La Esquina coming soon.  Platform 1 a new bar and restaurant that opened in November underneath Glasgow Central Station . The cave-like space, with its historic brick arches, serves street-food-style dishes and craft brews made in the on-site microbrewery, plus there’s an outdoor beer garden. As part of its renovation, Toronto’s Union Station launched Union Market in May 2023 with favourite local food retailers Manotas Organics, Chocolatta Brigadeiro’s, Patties Express and Kibo. Meanwhile, in Somerset, Castle Cary station is in the process of a revamp, with nearby hotel The Newt creating a creamery, cafe and co-working space, which is set to open in 2024. Also on tap for the next few years is the completed renovation of 30th Street Station in Philadelphia, with plans for a 20 per cent increase in concession space that will focus on local purveyors. Devorah Lev-Tov

5. Sports tourism

What’s the trend? No longer the domain of lads on tour keen to sink as many pints as possible with one eye on a football game, sports tourism has evolved in the past few years with a new generation – and type – of sports fan emerging thanks to glossy TV documentaries ( Formula 1: Drive to Survive , we’re looking at you). Now, we’re taking our fandom out of the house and following a host of different sports in destinations across the world, planning holidays that hinge around seeing games, races and other activities in exotic locales, and extending trips on either side to see the sights too.

Why will it matter in 2024? A little event known as the Olympic and Paralympic Games anchors the 2024 sports calendar. It kicks off in Paris in late July and runs until early September , during which time more than a million tourists are expected to check in across the French capital. The games have inspired city-wide projects such as the €1.4-billion clean-up of the Seine, which , all going well, will allow public swimming in the river for the first time in a century. Elsewhere, the Tour de France starts in Italy for the first time in 2024, with competitors speeding off in Florence before heading to Rimini on the Adriatic coast and then north to the Apennines through Emilia-Romagna. New bike routes in the area have been released by tour operators such as Ride International Tours and Ride Holidays for cycling enthusiasts keen to join in the fun. Sarah James

6. Coolcationing

What’s the trend? For the vast majority of folk, summer holidays used to be about following the sun, seeking the heat – watching the mercury climb and hitting the sands. With the intense, record-breaking temperatures of recent years, however, many are considering travelling in the opposite direction: booking "coolcations" in temperate destinations, which also benefit from being less crowded.

Why will it matter in 2024? Rising temperatures caused by the climate crisis have resulted in the hottest recorded summer in the UK – just over 40℃ in July 2022 – while 2023, with a sweltering summer in much of Mediterranean Europe, North America and China – is on track to be the hottest year ever. Little wonder that many travellers are thinking again before booking literal hotspots such as the South of France and Sicily in July or August. A survey for luxe travel network Virtuoso found that 82 per cent of its clients are considering destinations with more moderate weather in 2024. Destinations such as Iceland, Finland and Scotland, according to Intrepid Travel, along with Latvia, which is surging in popularity. “We’re seeing an increase in those holidaying further north,” says Andrea Godfrey of Regent Holidays. “Scandinavia and the Baltics are both getting noticed more: they offer a more pared-back style of holiday but have some lovely beaches, and forests and lakes for both relaxation and adventure activities.” Cooler temperatures are particularly well suited to family travel too. “We’re getting far more enquiries from families for destinations that offer summer sun but also respite from the high temperatures being experienced in beach resorts across the Med,” says Liddy Pleasants, founder of family specialist Stubborn Mule Travel. “Kayaking in Norway, with its midnight sun, for instance, and cycling or hiking in Slovenia, which is also very good value.” Time to ditch the SPF50… Rick Jordan

Gig tripping

7. Gig tripping

What’s the trend? For years, athletes and wellness gurus were the big headliners at retreats. But rock stars are, well, the new rock stars of travel. Call it the Swift Effect. Destination concert business is up more than 50 per cent, led mostly by Taylor Swift, says Janel Carnero, a travel advisor at Embark Beyond. In the USA, tickets for Swift’s Eras Tour cost thousands and were still impossible to score. Music fans are realising they can pay less and have a more memorable experience by seeing their favourite pop icons perform in say, Amsterdam or Milan . Tours from performers such as Pearl Jam, U2, Doja Cat and Madonna will anchor trip itineraries, while music festivals (Glastonbury sold out in less than an hour) will be major catalysts for travel.

Why will it matter in 2024? New music festivals, including Untold in Romania's Cluj-Napoca, are introducing travellers to undiscovered destinations, says Alexandrea Padilha of Fischer Travel. And it’s no longer just about the music, says Carnero. “It’s the social aspect of sharing experiences with friends,” she adds. Hotels and travel companies have taken note and are creating the equivalent of backstage VIP experiences for guests. Global adventure collective Eleven has recently introduced Music with Eleven. The programme’s dedicated team of music-industry insiders (including Chris Funk, guitarist from the Decemberists) custom design itineraries that might include sitting in on a recording session at Flóki Studios, just outside the Arctic Circle at Deplar Farm in Iceland. And Rhythm & Sails hosts musicians on its catamarans. The company’s music director, Anders Beck of the jam band Greensky Bluegrass, curates the line-up of artists who perform sessions onboard and in ports as you island hop around the Caribbean . Jen Murphy

8. Resorts will help you biohack your health span

What’s the trend? Longevity is the latest wellness buzzword thanks to best-selling books such as  Outlive  and the hit Netflix documentary  Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones . Between 2021 and 2022, venture-capital investment in longevity clinics more than doubled from $27 million to $57 million globally, according to analysis from longevity research and media company Longevity.Technology. Now, the science of extending life and optimising health has become the focus at hotels. Blue Zones retreats are the new boot camps and even sybaritic resorts are offering the latest biohacks. Poolside vitamin IV anyone?

Why will it matter in 2024? Since the pandemic, feeling good trumps looking good. “People have become aware of the critical importance of developing a more proactive, preventive approach to health on all levels,” says Karina Stewart, co-founder of Kamalaya, a wellness retreat in Koh Samui, Thailand . This means a new willingness to go beyond diet and exercise and embrace sci-fi-sounding bio-regenerative treatments such as ozone therapy and hyperbaric oxygen chambers, both on offer at Kamalaya's new Longevity House. Luxury hotel brands are embracing the trend too. Six Senses Ibiza recently teamed up with biotech company RoseBar to offer guests full diagnostic testing. Maybourne Hotel Group is collaborating with wellness tech pioneer Virtusan to help guests boost performance. And Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea administers treatments such as stem cells and NAD+ (aka the fountain of youth) through its partnership with Next Health longevity centre. At 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay in Kauai, guests are welcomed with a B12 shot instead of bubbles and the resort’s new wellness-specific rooms come with recovery-boosting mod cons including infrared light mats. If the trend continues, the secret to longevity may be as easy as taking more holidays. Jen Murphy

9. Peak season gets the cold shoulder

What's the trend? There’s been a dramatic recent increase in shoulder season travel to Europe’s most popular destinations (particularly France , Spain , the UK and Italy ), which is set to continue in 2024. Luxury travel specialists Original Travel has launched new shoulder season itineraries to locations traditionally in demand during the summer – including the crystalline seascapes of Sardinia and Corsica – after seeing 14 per cent more bookings for September 2023 than for August 2023. Pegi Amarteifio of Small Luxury Hotels of the World shares similar insights. “Comparing phone reservations in 2023 against 2019, we’ve seen a 33 per cent increase for March to May and a 58 per cent increase for September to November , a pattern reflected across our other booking channels too.”

Why will it matter in 2024? A combination of social, economic and environmental factors is driving this trend into 2024. The cost of living crisis means a heightened focus on value. For 62 per cent of respondents to Booking.com’s 2024 travel trends survey, this is a limiting factor for 2024 travel planning, so much so that 47 per cent of respondents are even willing to take children out of school for cheaper off-peak travel. Shoulder season travel is also becoming more attractive due to rising temperatures, and more feasible due to flexible working. Layered on top of these practical considerations is an emotional motivation too: travellers are craving authenticity more than ever, seeking a tranquil, local feel when abroad, rather than Where’s Wally beach scenes. Toyo Odetunde

10. Private group travel

What’s the trend? The post-pandemic desire to gather friends or family and embark on a shared holiday experience shows no sign of abating – in fact, it’s on the increase in luxury travel, as people appreciate the benefits and savour the moment, from 3G family groups to 50-something empty-nesters keen to rekindle life-long friendships. Just don’t take Succession ’s family outing to Tuscany as a role model.

Why will it matter in 2024? “While some predicted group travel would peak post-pandemic, we’ve seen it have a lasting, positive impact with private group bookings continuing to be a dominant trend,” says Tom Marchant of Black Tomato, for whom group travel now accounts for 30 per cent of bookings. The company has just launched its See You in the Moment series to cater for the demand: it uses a mood board of over 35 experiences themed around key flash points, from The Meal (a backcountry feast served on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, for example) to The Challenge (rafting down the Apurímac in Peru, perhaps), all designed to create lasting memories. For Scott Williams, meanwhile, multi-generational travellers are thinking big: why take one house when you can take a whole estate, such as Meli on Paxos in the Greek Islands, which sleeps 17? Other groups are taking to the water, with Red Savannah reporting an increase in bookings for Turkish gulets, Egyptian dahabiyas and Indonesian phinisis. Scott Dunn have seen an increase in bookings amongst groups of friends, with 30 per cent of respondents in a recent survey saying they were planning trips for 2024 that included ski trips to France, adventure travel in South and Central America, and beach breaks on Antigua and Barbados. Empty-nesters are also a growing force, with groups of couples in their 50s to 70s hiring villas in the shoulder season for cultural weeks away, and all-female groups – mainly aged between 50 and 65 – who are proactive in wanting to renew long-term friendships. “We had one repeat group that included several cancer survivors,” says Sarah-Leigh Shenton at Red Savannah. “A hammam afternoon in Turkey was a deeply bonding experience and they’ve since travelled to Jordan and Sicily together.” Rick Jordan

11. AI aims to be your sidekick

What's the trend? Early last year, after OpenAI’s ChatGPT broke the record as the fastest-ever growing consumer app, travellers started playing around with AI chatbots to get inspiration on where they could go. More recently, major travel booking platforms have started to integrate AI chatbots into the booking experience. But if 2023 was the year of AI chatbots wanting to plan your trips , 2024 will be all about how AI aspires to be your travel sidekick. A wave of new AI-powered features and products aims to support travellers on the ground – all while raising concerns around the potential negative impacts as AI becomes more widely integrated with our travels.

Why will it matter in 2024? AI will start to make more real-time interventions in our travels in 2024. One practical example is live translation , which Samsung plans to launch on its 2024 Galaxy devices. Imagine calling somewhere you want to visit to get information without worrying about whether staff speak the same language as you. Another example is greater AI personalisation in popular apps you already use. Uber’s CEO Dara Khosrowshahi has recently touted the company's increasing use of personalised AI algorithms , which will learn about your habits and make suggestions based on what you’re doing. For the true early adopters, real-time travel interventions could also mean ditching your screen entirely and clipping a screenless personal translator and travel assistant to your chest. This is the unusual idea behind the new talking and projecting AI Pin from Humane , a start-up backed by investors including OpenAI’s Sam Altman, that promises to function a bit like the universal translator from Star Trek . Will anyone want to actually wear the pin or will it go the way of previously hyped devices such as Google Glass? It certainly raises a host of ethical questions about privacy and data protection. Yet the more that AI products successfully help in addressing on-the-go problems, the more travellers will come to rely on them too. JD Shadel

12. Skip-gen travel

What’s the trend? Skip-gen travel describes when grandparents holiday with grandchildren, in other words, "skipping" a generation. “In the past few months, I've had around twice as many enquiries as usual for grandchild/grandchild bookings,” says Clio Wood, founder of family retreat company &Breathe . “There’s been a rising trend of grandparents taking their grandchildren away,” agrees Ollie Summers, Head of Sales at bespoke operator Scott Dunn . “Often to places that have a sentimental meaning to them.”

Why will it matter in 2024? Several travel agencies have created itineraries to cater specifically for this demand in 2024. “Skip-gen safaris are emerging as a micro-trend from the UK, reflecting a niche traveller group now well established in the US luxury market,” says Liane Goldring of Mahlatini Luxury Travel . “The grandparents are usually in their 70s and still active enough to fully embrace a fully guided safari adventure.” Original Travel, meanwhile, has relaunched its Bonding Holidays Collection , featuring trips focussed on discovering something new together, such as its 14-day Family Ranching itinerary in the American West. Some of this growth can be attributed to big-ticket lockdown promises coming to fruition. Now, amid the UK’s cost of living crisis, parents are also keen to make the most of the time and childcare support of their typically baby boomer, more comfortably retired parents. Plus, the global ratio of living grandparents to grandchildren is higher than ever, thanks to a combined increase in life expectancy and drop in the number of children per person. We’re even said to be living in the "the age of the grandparent". Don’t expect this trend – or your grandparents – to slow down anytime soon. Becky Lucas

Glamorous train travel

13. Train travel gets glam

What’s the trend? Rising climate consciousness has fuelled a rail travel revival, the luxury train niche is reaching new heights of popularity, extravagance and ambition. Travel booking platforms are reporting growing demand for luxury rail trips , where the journey is, yes, the destination. In fact, new design-forward train lines increasingly rival the finest hotels for the culinary experiences and bells and whistles on offer.

Why will it matter in 2024? A new wave of rail lines and itineraries launching in 2024 puts an emphasis on deeper immersion into the culture and landscapes of the destinations, which are more and more off the beaten track. Responding to growing demand for luxury train travel among its user base, specialist platform Railbookers plans to launch arguably the most geographically extensive and expensive luxury train itinerary around. With prices per person starting at $113,599, the 80-day Around the World by Luxury Train voyage will cross four continents and 13 countries. Beginning in August , the slow journey will string together existing luxury rail trips including Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Jasper and India’s Maharajas Express from Delhi to Mumbai. In Asia, the previously paused Eastern & Oriental Express is making a grand comeback starting in February, with carriages getting an upscale revamp and its legendary route being retraced through Malaysia's landscapes. Meanwhile, Japan is a hot destination for its scenic train journeys such as the exclusive Train Suite Shiki-shima , which quickly closed applications for its 2024 trips due to demand. And in Europe, six new train lines will commence or terminate in Rome under Accor's La Dolce Vita umbrella, with suites designed by starchitects Dimorestudio, building on the cultural legacy of the famous Orient Express . JD Shadel

14. Restaurateur-owned hotels

What’s the trend? Restaurants and hotels are the two linchpins of the hospitality industry. And naturally, the two are often intertwined on one premises. Until recently, though, most hotels weren’t started or owned by restaurateurs. Yet as food-focused travel keeps increasing, with people hankering for the next hot reservation and planning entire trips around discovering a culture through its food, it makes sense that restaurateurs are adding hotelier to their CVs – and ensuring their new properties have impressive food offerings. We’d be remiss not to mention Nobu, which began as a restaurant in 1994 and in 2013 launched its global hotel brand, as a harbinger of the trend.

Why will it matter in 2024? Just as design brands (RH, West Elm) have opened hotels in recent years, now restaurateurs are getting in on the action. In the USA, restaurateur and 12-time James Beard award nominee Sam Fox has just launched the Global Ambassador in Phoenix, Arizona, with five restaurants. Santa Barbara’s Good Lion Hospitality is relaunching Petit Soleil , a Californian wine country boutique hotel, with a new bar and restaurant slated for next spring. The Lafayette Hotel & Club was debuted last summer in San Diego by Arsalun Tafazoli, founder of a local hospitality group that operates 16 bars and restaurants. The hotel has five restaurants and bars, with two more opening by the end of the year. In Dallas, Harwood International, which owns a dozen or so restaurants in the area, opened Hôtel Swexan in June. In the St Gallen region of Switzerland two hotels were recently added to beloved restaurants: the revamped Mammertsberg  and  Gasthaus Traube . In Slovenia, AS Hotel is a new place to stay launched Sebastjan Raspopović, son of chef Svetozar Raspopović-Pope of renowned restaurant Gostilna AS in Lublijana. Aside from a restaurant by Raspopović-Pope, the hotel has an eatery by Michelin-lauded chef Ana Roš. Finally,  R48 , and its lauded Chef’s Table, was opened in Tel Aviv last spring by R2M Hospitality Group, which also runs restaurants CoffeeBar and Herzl 16. Devorah Lev-Tov

15. Silent travel

What’s the trend? In an age of overstimulation, silence might be just what we need from our travels in 2024. Offering a chance to restore and reset, silent travel represents a more mindful kind of trip, one that doesn’t leave you needing a holiday to recover from your holiday. Silent meditation retreats are an increasingly popular wellness trend, but silent travel also encompasses secluded nature resorts, sleep retreats , quiet hotels , silent walking tours and even silent disco and concert experiences.

Why will it matter in 2024? Saturated with stress and screen time, many of us are looking for ways to disconnect. The silent walking trend that recently took TikTok by storm reflects a growing impulse to escape the noise of our tech-fuelled lives and embrace the quiet, with promising implications for wellbeing. One 2015 study suggests silence may help to stimulate brain development, while another found that two minutes of silence during or after relaxing music increased the music's calming effects. With the Global Wellness Institute forecasting a 21 per cent increase in wellness tourism in the next two years, what better counter to the chaos of our always-on lives than silence? Silent travel is also part of a move towards more sustainable tourism. Quiet Parks International , for example, offers unique nature experiences in dedicated quiet spaces, reducing noise pollution for the surrounding wildlife. Silent travel opportunities abound in 2024. Kick off the year with a silent retreat in Portugal (with Innate ) or Italy (with Mandali ). More adventurous silent-seekers can trek the peaceful Japanese Kumano Kodo trail, or explore Finland’s Arctic landscape with a Silence & Nature Tour . For a tailor-made silent experience, Black Tomato’s Blink camp offers luxury accommodation in the world’s most remote settings, while its Get Lost programme promises to help you find yourself by getting lost in a far-flung location. Tasha Kleeman

16. Urban gardens

What’s the trend? Never mind the biophilic office and those pot plants you forget to water: whole cities are going green as architects and planners create leafy microclimates amid the grey concrete to help keep us cooler, connect communities and even feed us.

Why will it matter in 2024? Having trees and gardens in our cities is a pretty good idea. King Nebuchadnezzar certainly thought so, which is why his Hanging Gardens of Babylon made it into travel’s first-ever bucket list – the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World – back in the 2nd century BC. Nowadays planting trees creates much-needed shade, stores carbon and increases biodiversity, but it also makes our cityscapes so much nicer. While Valencia, an early adopter of urban greening with its 12km-long Turia Garden in 1986, is the 2024 European Green Capital, France is busy planting trees like there’s no tomorrow: go to Paris for the 2024 Olympics and you’ll spot budding new forests growing in Place du Colonel-Fabien, Place de Catalogne and in the Charonne district, while Bordeaux’s Grandeur Nature project includes urban cooling islands, micro-forests and rain gardens. All of which will doubtless be discussed at the ISHS Green Cities 2024 symposium, hosted by RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey, England, in September. Meanwhile, on Cyprus – an island that experienced temperatures of 44℃ in 2023 – the new Salina Park opens in time for summer shade in the seaside city of Larnaca. In Brazil, Rio’s Hortas Cariocas is a groundbreaking achievement that will be completed by the end of 2024: the largest urban vegetable garden in the world, connecting 56 community gardens across favelas and schools. And in London, the £1-billion Google building in King’s Cross will show just what can be done with one structure. Designed by Thomas Heatherwick, the "landscraper" – only 11 storeys high but stretching out longer than the Shard is tall – is hoped to provide a blueprint for future urban projects: running along the rooftop is a multi-level garden, with wildflowers, lawns and decked seating areas, set with more than 55,000 plants and 250 trees. Can you dig it? Rick Jordan

17. Back-of-house tours

What’s the trend? Greener hotels giving us a look behind the scenes to show us – not just tell us – they're sustainable. We don't mean a look-see at solar panels or composting, but heart-lifting experiential tours that help us appreciate why it matters to support socio-economic uplift through tourism. In South America, Blue Apple Beach invites visitors to get up close and personal with the community work it does in Colombia through its impact fund. Founder Portia Hart wanted more than token-gesture carbon offsetting, where locals themselves could decide how money was spent. In Africa, guests of the Bushcamp Company contribute to initiatives through the Luangwa Conservation and Community Fund. A popular excursion in Zambia is visiting the boreholes that are installed with outreach funds. Each pump provides fresh drinking water to hundreds of people a day, and visitors who spend time with those gathered get a very tangible insight into how such provisions funded by hospitality can literally change lives in regions most affected by a warming planet.

Why will it matter in 2024? Transparency is on the up as the European Union's Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive comes into force and greenwashing is coming close to being officially outlawed. A year of droughts, floods and heatwaves also reminds us we need to make better-informed choices in our travel planning – and all the better if we can also get a crash course in the science and sociology of positive impact. Experiences that go beyond explaining responsible practices, but demonstrate a deep respect for communities on the climate-change frontlines and help make their challenges relatable to visitors are especially helpful. Juliet Kinsman

18. Wild feasting

What’s the trend? Have you ever noticed how food always tastes better outdoors? But in today’s modern world many of us are more used to eating a sandwich while staring at a screen. Wild feasting describes the trend for beautifully curated culinary experiences in natural environments with the incorporation of hyper-local and foraged ingredients. In Sweden, for example, you can tap into a network of do-it-yourself outdoor restaurants where you book a table in a scenic location, search for nettles, birch leaves, lingonberries and trumpet chanterelles, and then cook them on an open fire according to a recipe card provided by a Michelin-grade chef.

Why will it matter in 2024? A greater range of wild feasting opportunities will give urbanites a chance to properly connect over food. Leading the way is Noah Ellis, founder of the UK's Nomadic Dinners. “Since launching in 2018, we experienced compounded year-on-year growth for our feasting and foraging experiences,” he says. In 2024 he will be hosting a new series of fire feasts, including one set among the bluebells. Also tapping into the zeitgeist is TikTok star Alexis Nikole Nelson (aka the Black Forager) who will publish a book about wild food in 2024. And don’t forget, 2024 is the last year you will be able to eat at Copenhagen ’s legendary, foraging-focused restaurant Noma before it turns into a test kitchen and closes to the public. Another innovator is Holmen Lofoten’s Kitchen On The Edge Of The World series in the Norwegian Arctic Circle, where guests can participate in four nights of wild feasts cooked by top chefs. In 2024, these will include Lennox Hastie, José Pizarro and Heidi Bjerkan. Ingunn Rasmussen, owner of Holmen Lofoten, says: “Now, as when we were little kids, gathering around a bonfire in the wilderness, sharing stories, feasting under the stars in these magical, remote surroundings is one of the absolute highlights, both for our guests and for us.” Jenny Southan

19. Plan-free travel

What's the trend? Saying no to endless scrolling to plan every inch of a trip, and saying yes to spontaneity instead. The power of the algorithm-spawned era of Fomo travel is waning, with those once secret spots made Insta-famous becoming tired and cookie-cutter, and the drive to plan a trip around them losing momentum. The rising counter movement is travel with no plans at all.

Why will it matter in 2024? The plan-free appeal is going one step further in 2024. Booking.com recently reported that 50 per cent of UK travellers want to book a surprise trip in 2024, where everything, even the destination, is unknown until arrival. And it’s possible to do it via travel companies such as Black Tomato, whose Get Lost service offers customers the ability to simply select a preferred environment – polar, jungle, desert, mountain or coastal – and leave its team decide everything else. “While we launched Get Lost several years ago, post-pandemic we’ve seen a notable and rising uptick in bookings and enquiries,” says Black Tomato co-founder Tom Marchant. Journee offers a similar surprise element, with travellers only finding out where they’re going at the airport. The service, which includes a full itinerary and access to a team via Whatsapp, is particularly popular with solo female travellers, while overall demand has grown so much that the London -based brand recently launched trips in the USA. Lauren Burvill

20. Frontier tourism

What’s the trend? To go above and beyond. Or below and under. As crossings of the tumultuous Drake Passage to Antarctica rack up millions of TikTok views and traffic jams form on Everest, canny travellers are seeking more individual, less obvious experiences that combine thrill-seeking with more meaningful self-empowerment.

Why will it matter in 2024? One person’s frontier is another’s backyard, of course, so frontiers are entirely subjective here. For some, this could mean being the first to camp under the stars in a remote landscape, or hike an ancient pilgrimage trail that’s been off the map for centuries. It’s still possible to bag a rare place on a Kamba African Rainforest Experience in the Republic of the Congo, being one of just 12 people to explore a game park the size of Belgium. Black Tomato, meanwhile, is designing an intrepid new expedition to the remote Mitre Peninsula in Argentina, along with a trip in Peru navigating the Sacred Valley of the Incas by raft. “This sort of adventure goes beyond bragging rights and is more akin to self-empowerment and the gratification of pushing our own horizons,” says Black Tomato co-founder Tom Marchant. The Ultimate Travel Company is also heading to Peru, a country repositioning itself for luxury travellers, with stays at Puqio, its first tented exploration camp,, in the remote Colca Valley in the Southern Peruvian Andes. Wilderness camping is also pegging out fresh terrain in Kyrgyzstan, with yurt stays on the steppes trending for 2024, according to Wild Frontiers, as is Mongolia ; while Albania, Mongolia, Pakistan and the Empty Quarter of Oman are all on the radar for an increasing number of travellers. And while the space-age pods of White Desert have already sold out for New Year’s Eve 2024 and 2025, latter-day frontiersfolk can take the path less travelled and explore the frozen continent’s southern coast (99 per cent of visitors go from South America to the northwest) with The Ultimate Travel Company’s new Ross Sea cruises, seeing the Ross Ice Shelf and Transantarctic Mountains. Don’t forget to pack your penknife. Rick Jordan

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Matador Original Series

10 Fun TikTok Trends for Couples to Try Out When Traveling

T ikTok has opened up a whole new realm of creative possibilities, especially for destination reels and fun challenges to jump on with your partner in crime as you travel around the world. However, for new users, it sometimes becomes daunting to find these challenges, and to figure out how to execute TikTok travel trends. We’ve compiled 10 of the most popular and fun TikTok travel trends from couples all over the world for you to try out on your next trip.

Finger snap!

@nanocalderon97 🇲🇽Resumen de nuestro viaje❤️ #parati #viaje #mexico #viral #fyp #travel #couple ♬ original sound – Sisi

You’ve probably seen it, it’s all over TikTok and it’s one of those trends that just doesn’t die out. Why? Because it’s one of the easiest ones to execute without having to spend too much time on your phone when you’d rather be taking in the beauty of your surroundings… or enjoying each other’s company.

How to do it:

• Remember to record a one-second clip of your hands finger-snapping in front of all the different places that make up your trip together.
• Once you have all the clips you want to use, scroll through TikTok to find one of these videos. Make sure you use the search tool and use a travel-related hashtag, such as #traveltok or #travelcouple.
• When you’ve found one, click on the audio, and make sure you save it to Favorites.
• Now that you have the clips and the sound, all you need to do is head over to the ‘+’ sign, add the sound from your Favorites. Then add every finger-snapping clip from your library, and TikTok will do the rest with auto-sync.

Bungalow run-through

@anna.fack rate the view at the end!! would you stay here?!😍breathtaking! #borabora #funnycouplesgoals #couplesvideo #travelcouplegoals #travelcouplelife ♬ My House (Challenge Version) – Flo Rida

Heading to an amazing rental home with a pool overseeing some breathtaking views? You might love this one.

How to do it is easy enough. Hit record and grab hold of your partner’s hand and have them guide you across the bungalow and into the pool. Don’t forget to get a waterproof phone case to avoid a tech disaster.

• Save the sound from a similar video to Favorites.
• Have your partner take your hand as they record you running in front of them through the bungalow.
• Jump with them in the pool, or let go of their hand as they record and jump in the pool.
• Add clip and sound, auto-sync and publish!

Passport reel

@thattravelcouple Travel together Stay together Tag your travel buddy #thattravelcouple #travelgoals #foryoupage #foryou #fyp #tiktoktravel #travelcouple ♬ Jaymes Young – Happiest Year – 99

This is another one of those #traveltok trends that never seem to go out of fashion. All you have to do here is take a first selfie with your partner at the airport holding your passports and cover the camera with them slowly for the transition. All that’s left is making sure you’ve got some clips throughout the trip of each other wandering, eating, kissing, exploring. Smash it all together with the right audio and boom! You go viral.

• Save sound from a similar video onto Favorites.
• Make a selfie video at the airport of the two of you holding your passports.
• Slowly move the passports in front of the camera until it goes black.
• Hit on the ‘+’ sign and add the sound
• Add the airport clip, and all the clips you want to add from your trip.
• Auto-sync and publish!

One day, you’re gonna wake up…

@theglobewanderers Do what you have always wanted ❤️ #travel #travelbucketlist #life #motivation #wanderlust #travellife #travelcouple ♬ original sound – Jesse J. Pedigo

One of the great things about TikTok is that the sounds that can be used on your clips go way beyond a music library. There are thousands of inspirational quotes with a backdrop of calm music that are perfect for these videos.

Finding those quote-based sounds can be tricky. The most efficient way is to scroll through TikTok with the #TravelTok hashtag and save those sounds onto your Favorites. Some creators, such as Jesse J. Pedigo (@creatingwonders), specialize in making the quote sounds for other users.

There is a lot more creative freedom in quote trends because you can literally choose any and as many clips from your travels. Many creators choose to add subtitles for the quotes on the final video, but if you do this, remember you need to time the duration of each piece of text accordingly. It can be a little daunting, but in the end, it’s totally worth it.

• Save sound to Favorites.
• Upload the best clips from your travels together and add the sound.
• Optional text: Add the captions to the quotes and sync the durations for the whole video.

@georginariba98 Made it #trip #couple #travel #foryou #parati #clap #2021 #fyp #plane #beach #sunset ♬ Home Cover by Lukmco – Luke

The concept for this one is the same as the finger-snapping one we first mentioned. Fist-bump your partner with different backdrops of your trips, smash it all together, add sound, and watch TikTok make magic happen.

• Find a similar video and save the sound to Favorites.
• During your trip, remember to record one second of your hands fist-bumping in front of all the different places that make up your trip together.
• Head over to the ‘+’ sign, add the sound, and every fist-bump clip from your library and TikTok will do the rest with auto-sync.

“When are you having kids?”

@jessiwanders Don’t stop until you find your travel partner for life #travel #partner #goals #couplegoals #travelcouple #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #inspiration ♬ Originalton – Hi

This is one of my personal favorites, and one I’m sure many recently married couples out there will love, especially couples bombarded with that constant nagging question from everyone around them: ‘So when will you have kids?’

It’s perfectly fine to want kids, of course, but it’s also perfectly fine to not want them. And travel instead. So next time they ask, maybe having a TikTok answer just that, might do the trick.

• First of all, make sure you have the audio for this trend saved to Favorites.
• Then, find a clip of your wedding day, and add the text “Everyone: So when are you having kids?”
• Add a series of clips of the two of you traveling around the world, and make sure to add the text: “Us:” for the duration of those snippets.

Clear water…Cheers!

@sydneyandavis Clear water #jamaica #bestvacations #travelingourplanet #living_destinations #travelcouple #honeymoon #beach #travel #tiktoktravel ♬ Supalonely (feat. Gus Dapperton) – BENEE

There is nothing quite like the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean. If you’re heading there together, raising a couple of champagne glasses is one of the easiest and classiest reels to up your game on TikTok.

• Before recording, get your hands on a couple of champagne glasses.
• Hit record as you both fill the empty glasses with that crystal-clear water, toast, and let the water fall back into the ocean.
• Before uploading the clips, make sure you find a similar video first, and save the audio associated with it to your Favorites.
• Add the clips and audio, and voilá.

Life is short, the world is wide…

@riotravelers Follow us if you love travel ✈️☺️ #travel #travelcouple ♬ original sound – ✨ ✨

This is another quote-sound that has recently been trending again. As we’ve already mentioned, you can pair these sounds with whatever clips you want, without having to pre-record anything specific for them.

Tip: Make sure you get some clips of your partner exploring as they hold your hand, selfies, bird’s eye views, the two of you toasting at a charming restaurant. Anything goes. The important part is to capture all those moments you don’t want to ever forget.

• This is optional but you can also add the captions to the quotes and sync the durations for the whole video.

Traveling as a couple…wait for it

@thelucasfamily True or false? #couple #couples #couplegoals #couplecomedy #couplelove #travel #travellife #GetGrafting #holiday #vacationmode #viral #fyp #fypシ #fy ♬ Into The Thick Of It! – The Backyardigans

This is one of the more realistic TikTok trends, and it’s one that allows you to add in a personal touch. Traveling is not always daisies and sunshine, especially as a couple. What is it that best defines your travels together? Do they get annoyed because you’re asking for selfies every second step of the way? Are you the one who always gets lost unless you have your nose stuck to a map the whole time?

Find that thing that defines you as a couple, and own it!

• Save the sound from a similar video to your Favorites.
• Decide what defines your travels as a couple and re-enact it in a humorous way.
• Add the text: “Traveling as a couple… wait for it” in the first few seconds of your clip.

All these years, all these countries

@kendallfuhrman being with you feels like this song I love you @alexcarvs #love #soulemate #abba #theboy #gooutside #couplestiktok #travelcouple #luca #bucketlist ♬ Chiquitita x Twilight – twibytez

One of the most defining TikToks you could take as a couple is a reel of all your travels together. This might be something you need to dig out some old clips for, but it will definitely be worth it.

• Save the sound from a similar video into your Favorites.
• Dig up all the clips of the two of you together from all the traveling you’ve done over the years.
• On the first clip, you use, make sure to add the text: “-X- years and -XX- countries later.”

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THE 10 BEST Moscow Couples' Activities

Best things to do in moscow for couples.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3rd Transport Ring (TTK)
• District Central (TsAO)
• Garden Ring
• Boulevard Ring
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Red Square

2. Saint Basil's Cathedral

3. Moscow Metro

4. State Tretyakov Gallery

5. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

6. Moscow Kremlin

7. Kolomenskoye Historical and Architectural Museum and Reserve

8. Armoury Chamber

10. Bolshoi Theatre

11. The Museum of Cosmonautics

12. Sparrow Hills (Vorobyovy Gory)

13. Kuskovo Estate

14. The Exhibition of Achievements of National Economy (VDNKh)

15. Sokolniki Park

16. Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

17. PANORAMA360

18. Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts

19. Kremlin Walls and Towers

20. Victory Park

21. Modern Moscow Drama Theater

22. State Darwin Museum

23. Aleksandrovskiy Sad

24. New Tretyakov Gallery

25. Aptekarskiy Ogorod Botanical Garden

26. Lomonosov Moscow State University (MGU)

27. Patriarch's Pond

28. Krutitskoe Podvorye

29. Diamond Fund (Almazny Fond)

30. Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

What travelers are saying.

These Are Going to Be the Most Popular Travel Destinations in 2024

A lready thinking about where you want to travel in 2024 ? If you’re hoping to hit the hottest travel destinations of the year, Expedia Group is here to help. The one-stop travel site—alongside Hotels.com and VRBO—just released Unpack '24 , a travel trends analysis for the coming year. In addition to detailing the projected top 10 most popular international destinations of 2024, the site also revealed 10 “dupes” for travelers looking to perhaps spend a bit less, as well as those hoping to be surrounded by fewer fellow tourists. Additionally, they revealed 10 affordable cities where the world’s biggest musical acts are set to perform, as well as where to travel if you live a sober lifestyle.

“At Expedia Group, we have extensive first-party travel data that we use to enhance and curate experiences for our travelers across Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo,” Jon Gieselman, president of Expedia Brands, says in the report. “These insights shape our travel forecasts, revealed in Unpack '24, enabling our travelers to be the first to discover and book the most desired trips before they become well-beaten paths.”

Ready to ignite your travel bug? Ahead, discover the most popular travel destinations of 2024.

The Top 10 Travel Destinations of 2024

Expedia Group predicts that travelers are most likely to jet set to destinations popularized in fan-favorite TV shows and movies. According to the report, “More than half of travelers say they’ve researched or booked a trip to a destination after seeing it on a TV show or in a movie. In fact, travelers say TV shows influence their travel decisions more than Instagram, TikTok, and podcasts.” With that in mind, they reveal that the top 10 travel destinations of 2024 are as follows:

• Thailand - Featured in White Lotus , Season 3—which has sadly been pushed to premiere in 2025
• Romania - Featured in Wednesday , Season 2—which has not yet set a release date
• Malta - As seen in Gladiator 2 , which is set to premiere on November 22, 2024
• Paris - As seen in Emily in Paris
• Scottish Highlands - Featured in Outlander
• London, Bath, and Windsor, U.K. - As seen in Bridgerton and The Crown
• South Korea - Featured in Squid Game —the Season 2 release date has yet to be announced
• Florida Keys - As seen in the series Bad Monkey
• Australia - Featured in Baz Luhrmann’s Faraway Downs series, as well as the film Furiosa , which is set to premiere on May 24, 2024
• Greece - as seen in the films Argylle (set to release in 2024) and My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3

The Top 10 Travel Destination Dupes

Dupes have long been lauded in the beauty and fashion categories, and now the concept is making its way to travel. “1 in 3 of those polled say they’ve booked a dupe,” the report reveals. “But what do these less obvious alternatives offer besides potential savings? They’re often less crowded, tend to be a little unexpected, and can be every bit as delightful as the tried-and-true destinations.”

Intrigued by the idea of booking a stellar vacation for a fraction of the price? Check out Expedia Group’s Top 10 Travel Destination Dupes, below, which are listed as the original destination of inspiration and the dupe that mirrors it.

• Seoul —> Taipei
• Bangkok —> Pattaya
• Santorini —> Paros
• Saint Martin —> Curaçao
• Sydney —> Perth
• London —> Liverpool
• Lisbon —> Palermo
• Geneva —> Québec City
• Zermatt —> Sapporo
• Nashville —> Memphis

The Top 10 Tour-Inspired Travel Destinations

Music lovers, this one’s for you! As you well know, traveling to see your favorite artists live is expensive, to say the least. With this in mind, Expedia set out to find the most affordable destinations where the world’s most famous pop and rock stars are set to take the stage in 2024.

Through their research, in which they analyzed the average daily rates of tour locations, they found the top 10 most affordable cities (less than $150/night on average) where travelers can witness the likes of Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, Coldplay, Metallica, Madonna, and more. They are as follows:

• Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia - $91
• Edmonton, Canada - $108
• Mexico City, Mexico - $119
• Warsaw, Poland - $119
• Birmingham, U.K. - $127
• Houston, Texas - $130
• Antwerp, Belgium - $140
• Tokyo, Japan - $147
• Perth, Australia - $148
• Detroit, Michigan - $149

For more research-backed travel trends, be sure to check out Expedia’s full Unpack ‘24 Trend Report .

• Nation & World

The year’s biggest summer travel trends, according to Pinterest

Pinterest is home to over 1 billion travel-related searches and 10 billion travel saves in one year, making it an interesting playground for discovering the year’s new trends.

A new report by Pinterest identified the new summer travel trends that travelers — and especially younger Gen Z travelers — are seeking out more than ever.

Adventure travel is here to stay

Travelers are seeking ways to satisfy a craving for adventure. Searches for adventure activities on Pinterest increased 45 percent from 2023, and the natural world is once again top-of-mind for many travelers. Adventure travel also brings a sense of personal growth and presents a different sort of challenge for many, making it a fun, bucket-list travel experience.

Luxury safari lodge interest has grown 110%, with trending adventure travel destination Tanzania growing 60% year over year, largely in part due to its safari adventures. Water park rides rose 170 percent, while train journeys and hiking trails also rose 900 and 94 percent, respectively. Additionally, activities like mountaineering, trekking, adventure camping and caving grew in interest by around 40 percent.

Travelers are also more interested in traveling to the Amazon rainforest: Searches for travel within the Amazon grew 120% from 2023.

Travelers are seeking quiet wellness escapes

Travelers on Pinterest are getting more and more interested in leaving behind the hustle and bustle culture for something quieter and more serene. Searches for “quiet life” skyrocketed 530% year over year, and searches for quiet travel have also shown an increase in interest.

Quiet places and calm places have risen 50% and 43% each. Travel journal pages increased by 155%, showing a greater interest in recording travel experiences and in wellness travel and activities.

Additionally, travelers are seeking out more information on village vibes (145% increase), cabins in the mountains (180%), countryside (60%), national parks (250%) and glamping aesthetics (260%) than they did last year.

Trending quiet life destinations include Okinawa, Japan (35% increase) and the English countryside (31% increase).

Travelers are seeking out the unexplored

Along with an interest in slower, less crowded travel experiences also comes a different sort of travel inspiration: seeking out mysterious places that provide a sense of wonder and exploration.

Interest in places on Earth that don’t feel real grew 240% year over year. Additionally, calming nature grew 340%; exploring abandoned places grew 230%; beautiful places in the world grew 150%; ancient cities grew 75% and haunted places grew 155%.

Top trending mysterious destinations that are seeing newfound popularity include Machu Picchu, which saw 190% growth in searches, and Edinburgh, Scotland, which saw a 56% growth.

Trending Gen Z summer destinations

Jasper, Canada, is this summer’s hottest destination for Gen Z travelers, who desire greater connection with the world around them, outside of their phones. Home to Jasper National Park, it’s a breathtaking place that promises ample exploration and adventure travel opportunities, along with great photography opportunities. Searches for Jasper grew 155% year over year.

Interest in learning about other destinations also grew from last year. London lifestyle grew 340%; South African food in particular rose 320%; Santorini party grew 300%; Goa nightlife grew 270%; and summer in Brazil rose 250%.

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11 Most Romantic Places in Moscow

Moscow is known to be one of the best-kept secrets when it comes to romantic getaways with your significant other. It’s a city where you can put your hands in each other’s pockets to keep warm when it’s cold outside or embrace a lot. A trip to Moscow as a couple can be both unique and enjoyable!

Whether you’re a romantic at heart or a bit more practical, Moscow has many dating options for you: stylish, fancy, and laid-back. 

A couple in love has plenty of delicious options for spending time together. There’s a perfect option for everyone — whether you’re looking for ideas to amaze your new Russian date, you’re celebrating your wedding anniversary in Moscow, or you just want to hang out together.

With our choice of the top romantic places in Moscow, we want you to experience a special and exciting moment for yourself and your significant other. 

11 Romantic Places to Explore in Moscow

Themed parks and gardens, exclusive restaurants, and other romantic spots can be found in Moscow. Take a look at the following:

1. Panoramic views in Moscow City

Moscow City is a brand-new commercial district in Moscow’s city center. With one of Europe’s highest buildings, it’s not the most obscure location in Moscow. However, the beautiful city panorama, especially in the evening, makes it one of Moscow’s finest dating romantic places. 

Everyone knows that combining novelty with a dash of adrenaline may make your date fall head over heels in love almost immediately. And here is what you can see from the sky deck on the 58th floor of the Imperia Tower, which is 230 meters above the city. 

If sharing the views isn’t enough, a prearranged private meal with a glass of champagne would work wonders as well!

2. Patriarch’s Ponds

Patriarch’s Ponds is a residential neighborhood in Moscow’s central business district and one of the key settings of Mikhail Bulgakov’s classic novel “The Master and Margarita.” 

Take a leisurely stroll along the pond to escape the bustle of nearby Tverskaya Street with your significant other. Observe groups of teenagers who crowd the benches in the afternoon, sing, and play guitars. After that, get lost in the maze of narrow streets. And when you’re tired, head over to one of the many chic pubs and comfortable cafés that line the streets to grab a meal and relax with your partner.

3. Hermitage Garden

Hermitage Garden, located on Karetny Ryad Street in Moscow’s central district, is an open field that is frequently characterized as the ideal location for couples. 

Hermitage Garden is beautiful at any time of year. It stunning views during the day and a magical ambiance at night. This garden would be wonderful for couples, with several lovely resting areas right under the trees as well as multiple cozy cafes.

Hermitage has also become one of the most iconic dating destinations, thanks to a newly constructed heart-shaped monument where couples can make a wish. The garden also features several theatrical and music festivals in the summer. It even has a magnificently illuminated ice skating rink in the winter. 

All year round, this is an ideal location for a date.

4. Brix Wine Bar

Brix is a great place to grab a glass of wine and have an intimate conversation if you’re seeking a romantic place in Moscow. 

Brix is one of Moscow’s best wine bars. It features a wide assortment of alcoholic beverages and top-notch cuisine at relatively moderate costs. It’s a tiny space that accommodates up to 40 people, with a straightforward but well-thought-out design. 

Brix’s welcoming atmosphere will make you and your Russian date feel welcome and at ease.

5. Matryoshka

The restaurant, which opened its doors in February 2017, is a novelty to Moscow’s dining scene. This restaurant combines traditional Russian food with modern execution. Also, the two-story restaurant’s décor features a mix of contemporary fashion styles, antique components, and industrial themes. This makes the romantic place a setting where traditions meet the latest trends. 

The menu exemplifies how diverse and sophisticated Russian food is. Pike caviar costs around $10, sockeye salmon or pink salmon caviar is around $11, and sturgeon caviar is around $33. These are the four kinds of caviar available in this charming restaurant. Separately available that costs around $4 are sour cream pancakes.

6. Geraldine

Geraldine is a restaurant with a touching backstory: it is named after the mother of Russian journalist Vladimir Pozner, who was French. 

The establishment is charming and pleasant. It’s ideal for both couples who want to get away from their kids for a weekend brunch date — as well as first dates, as the warm atmosphere helps to break the ice. 

Geraldine is a néo-Bistrot , a cheeky word for a chef who prioritizes their vision and the customer experience over a Michelin star. Néo-bistros are much more than establishments that offer exceptional value in relaxed circumstances. They are similar to an independent film director who wants to share his enthusiasm with you. 

Think of delectable, affordable, and humble when you hear “néo-Bistrot” — ideal for a romantic date for couples visiting the city!

The Sad is one of the most romantic places in Moscow. The restaurant is large, with seating for up to 200 people. It’s divided into two areas — one of which is a blooming garden — where lovebirds like you and your Russian lover may easily find an ideal table. 

The menu prepared by Michelin Star Chef Adrián Quetglas is extensive and diverse. The soup section alone includes eight entrees. It is mostly inspired by his native Spanish cuisine, although it also has Chinese, Indian, and Italian specialties.

The wine selection and cocktail list are both on par with the cuisine. It’s challenging to pick something that won’t please you and your partner! One significant advantage of a romantic trip to Russia is that you will spend far less money on caviar than you would in many other countries.

8. Mandarin Combustible

Mandarin Combustible is one of those rare venues where the shift from peaceful tearoom to an astonishingly beautiful bar to a restaurant is effortless. The interior is the most fascinating aspect of this place. It has a fantastic cocktail collection and some genuinely new pan-Asian bites. 

Regardless of how busy the bar is, dark hardwood lounge chairs, richly draped curtains, and mandarin-colored light fixtures contribute to a sense of natural intimacy. Sit in a corner with your partner and let the world pass you by.

9. Pavilion

Pavilion is a restaurant located in one of Moscow’s most picturesque areas, overlooking the Patriarch’s Ponds. You can sometimes see skaters in the winter and witness the lovely swans drifting by in the summer. 

The restaurant serves exquisite Russian cuisine and has waiters dressed in white tuxedos. As the sun sets over the lake, begin the evening with a toast of Prosecco with your partner. When the weather heats up, a terraced seating area near the water’s edge becomes available.

Bar 45 has an interesting take on serving wines. They don’t have menus, but a sommelier who personally visits tables and discusses their wine options with guests. Any establishment where the wine selection only sits in the sommelier’s mind takes wine carefully. 

This unassuming bar offers space for roughly 25. It has soft bar stools placed in twos along the counter and rear wall. The kitchen delivers charcuterie, olives, and delectable snacks to help match your booze of choice. This is the ideal setting for wine drinkers, with ambient lighting, soothing music, and superb wine. 

A bit of advice: if this is your first date, keep tabs on your knowledge regarding grape varieties and wine locales beforehand. When the sommelier accepts your order, you don’t want to be caught off guard and embarrass yourself in front of your Russian date.

11. Vogue Café

Vogue Café is regarded as one of Moscow’s most trendy establishments. It’s a popular choice among couples looking to spend an evening in a stylish setting with delectable cuisine and beverages. The interior design is sleek and sophisticated, with black and gold accents and countless images of some of the most famous fashion models.

Vogue Café is a terrific choice for romantic but modern couples. Enjoy the nice ambiance, superb food, and impeccable service!

Enjoy these best romantic places in Moscow!

Although there is no such thing as a perfect time or place for love to blossom, it can be quite beneficial if the setting matches your emotions. Choose from these romantic places in Moscow and enjoy your time with your Russian date.

If you haven’t found your ideal match yet, don’t worry! TrulyRussian has all the decent and gorgeous Russian singles — and one of them could be your Happily Ever After. Sign up today!

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Breaking news, plane passenger sparks outrage with ‘crazy’ seat swap trick that turned into mile-high musical chairs.

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A father sparked a fierce debate on airplane etiquette after allegedly duping a fellow flyer during a seat switch gone south, as detailed in a TikTok video with thousands of views .

“I witnessed the most insane plane behavior on the way here,” TikTok user Alex Bennett said in the video while detailing the “crazy incident,” which occurred on an unspecified flight.

She recalled how the unidentified father had walked up and asked a passenger sitting in the aisle seat behind Bennett if he could swap seats so he could sit with his two children — a contentious issue in the airways of today.

“He’s like: ‘Hey man, my kids have [the] middle and window [seats] and I’ve got this aisle across,” the fly-witness recounted. “‘Do you mind swapping me aisle to aisle?’”

However, when the potential switchee — who was “bigger and older,” per the clip — inquired if the dad indeed had an aisle seat, he suspiciously hesitated before declaring, “‘Yeah, aisle.”

Convinced, the passenger agreed to trade places, after which it quickly became apparent that something was awry.

[A] girl walks up about ten seconds later to the guy that swapped and says ‘Hey I’m the aisle seat here,'” Bennet explained. “And he’s like: ‘Oh, I traded with that guy. He said he was the aisle seat.'”

At that point, the alleged seat cheat was on his phone, refusing to look up, per Bennett, who believed that he downgraded the samaritan on purpose like a shifty merchant hawking shoddy goods.

“The dad had the middle seat, and I think he knew it,” described the TikTokker.

Despite the alleged deception, the duped flyer — who “could not have been nicer,” per Bennett — wordlessly got up from his seat again to move to the middle seat.

Bennett summed up the incident like this: “I totally understand a dad wanting to sit with his kids, no question. But I think you gotta tell the guy, ‘I’m middle. I need a solid here because I need to sit with my kids.’ But you can’t say you’re the aisle and then the girl’s addressing it.”

Needless to say, passengers were quick to criticize the dad for cheating in the game of mile-high musical chairs.

“If you ask to swap seats you have to be offering an equivalent or better seat,” said one outraged commenter.

“Of course he knew it,” said another.

A third declared that if said incident happened to them, the “dad would have been back on his middle seat!”

Others said the debacle was irrefutable proof of why you should never agree to switch seats in the sky.

“A plane is the only place you won’t catch me being a people pleaser. My seat is my seat,” said one stalwart commenter.

“I pay to choose my seat. I’m not trading,” declared another.

Seat switching has been a divisive issue of late. In February, a female traveler was commended online after refusing to swap with a dad so he could sit with his wife and young daughter.

Many commenters argued that if the father wanted to sit with his family so badly, he should’ve booked them all seats together instead of trying to trade places with someone who likely paid more for their seat.

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• 11 Romantic Places In Russia That Will Add A Spark To Your Trip In 2024

23 Mar 2023

If you are thinking about a place to propose to your partner at and how to make her feel special, then Russia can fulfill your choices with a range of beautiful and, of course, romantic places. There are many romantic places in Russia . These places are filled with couples all the time, but you can find some quality time to spend with your partner here. You can reignite your long-lost romance with your significant other in these picturesque places. Doesn’t that sound dreamy? Read on to find out where you can strike a pose with your partner.

11 Most Romantic Places In Russia

Here in this post, we reveal some of the best things to do in Moscow to take your relationship one step further. Without further ado, here is the list of the most romantic places in Russia . Take a look at these beautiful destinations:

• Moscow City
• Patriarch Ponds
• Chara Sands
• Tavrichesky Orangery
• Valaam Archipelago
• Moscow River Cruise
• Lake Seliger
• Lagonaki Plateau

1. Moscow City

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The capital of the country, Moscow, is best for this purpose. It is one of the most most beautiful places in Russia . This capital holds one of the highest skyscrapers which are top in the list of top romantic places in Moscow. You can take your fiancé there, and while observing the city from that height, you can give her a surprise. You can make your occasion very special and memorable for whole life. On the board of the skyscraper, there are some words written in the Russian language which means only love is above so go and get to the top of that place.

Must Read: 19 Cool And Unusual Things To Do In Russia That You’ve Never Heard Before!

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2. Peterhof

If you want to propose her like a king, then Russian Versailles can give you this chance. It is situated very close to Petersburg. It is one of the best romantic places in Russia for young people. You will find a lot of tourists here. But fountains and the greenery of this place can make both of you feel amazing and leave your relationship as green as the place. The beauty of this place will leave a mark in your memories and couples are not able to forget this place and the memories created here.

Suggested Read: Saint Petersburg In June: A Comprehensive Guide To The Venice Of The North

3. Patriarch Ponds

The front view of this place, when viewed from a distance, looks very amazing, and that makes it one of the popular areas. There are some bars and restaurants in the neighborhood where you can celebrate and have some fun. The appearance of this place resembles Chelsea in London. There is a pond situated at the center which is a great attraction to this place.

Suggested Read: 8 Cities With Best Russia Nightlife; Say It Aloud, “Lights, Vodka, & Russians!”

It is situated at a distance of 250 km from Moscow, in the town which is known as Golden Ring Town. It’s also worthy to add in this list due to its architecture and amazing environment. There are many houses made of wood, and it can give you an amazing feel like the prince of ancient time, and you can even buy those costumes from various shops out there. You can enjoy this day to the fullest and make it a memorable one.

Suggested Read: Wildlife In Russia: Spot The Enchanting Fauna In The Largest Country Of The World!

5. Chara Sands

You may get surprised for a while, but we are going to tell you the exact truth. A place like Siberia has a desert. It is a small one. The destination is perfect in all the sense to propose your loved one in such a romantic landscape. You will see the beautiful sunsets, and even the atmosphere is so great that she wouldn’t be able to stop herself from kissing you. There are chances that she will drop some tears after seeing your surprise.

Suggested Read: 10 Places To Visit In Russia To Witness The Beauty Of This Incredible Nation

6. Tavrichesky Orangery

This place is full of greenery. Lots of plants, trees, and flowers in this park attract numerous couples throughout the year. The stunning view can be a perfect one for your perfect day. The park has everything one can imagine like hills, sparkling lakes, and royal architecture. A visit here can rekindle your relationship and can bring a new warmth to it. The smell of oranges will only enhance the whole experience.

7. Dimitrov

The situation can be a bit challenging to ride into heart shaped hot air balloon with your loved one. If you think you want to do something new to your better one, then this is the place where you can express your feelings and make her understand the importance of her in your life, your future and also about your happiness. Also, the scenery and the privacy will provide for a perfect date spot for all the couples.

Suggested Read: 9 Fabulous Beaches In Russia That Let You Relish The Taste Of The Good Life!

8. Valaam Archipelago

Some people around the globe believe in leaving the world behind, and if you are one of those, then there is no better place than this. Here you will find the forests, azure waters, and awesome sunsets. People love to make proposals over here as it is a perfect place with nature all around you. This place is famous all over in Russia  for the peaceful yet beautiful surroundings.

9. Moscow River Cruise

Touring the Moscow River can be the best thing you ever did in your life for your partner, or maybe it can be one of the best for you as well. The cruise experience on the river of Moscow is better than most of the other cruise journeys. Here you can see the Russian richness and also the beauty of the view from the cruise. These moments of happiness can add more value when you will give her a surprise by going down on your knees and proposing her.

10. Lake Seliger

It is a place full of crackling fires and a beach. This is what the lake has for you to welcome you and your partner. You can enjoy your private happy moments, and when you get her attention, you can propose to her and tell her about your feelings, and both of you can gaze at the wonderful scenes. No matter what your relationship is suffering with, this place can demolish all those walls.

Suggested Read: 9 Hotels In Russia That Are A Perfect Blend Of Modern Culture And Old-World Charm!

11. Lagonaki Plateau

Even watching the photo of the beautiful place can change your mood just in a snap then imagine how much special it would be when you propose her in the plains of this Caucasian biosphere reserve. You have to pay 2 dollars for the ticket of this plain. These meadows, boxwood grows, and a view from the height can make the situation more likely to be in your favor.

Further Read: Russia Plans To Open A Luxury Hotel In Space Since Earth Is Too Mainstream!

These 11 most romantic places in Russia can be best for anyone, but more so for those who are looking to spend their honeymoon in a peaceful yet beautiful place. Can you think of any more romantic destinations that should have been in this list? Add them in the comments section below and share this with your globetrotter buddies. Don’t forget to book a holiday to Russia to experience what all these amazing places offer.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Romantic Places In Russia

What is the most beautiful city in Russia?

Moscow is touted to be the most beautiful city in Russia.

What is the most beautiful place in Russia?

St. Petersburg is considered as the most beautiful place in Russia.

Is Russia good for honeymoon?

Russia has everything you and your partner can ever desire to make for a perfect honeymoon getaway. In Russia, Moscow and St. Petersburg have remained as the most popular honeymoon destinations.

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This Year's Top Spring Break Travel Trends

By Rachel Chang

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The countdown to spring break has officially begun in the US. The hotly-anticipated travel period can mean a lot of different things to different people—from classic college party-goers and ultimate family vacationers to couples and solo travelers looking to escape the winter chill. But one thing that’s certain in 2024 is that spring break is no longer limited to one type of traveler, nor just one week of the year.

Due to the various holiday schedules between schools and regions, as well as the increased flexibility of remote work, the peak periods of spring break travel have extended within the months of March and April. Meanwhile, “weather around the country has been so volatile and unpredictable, many people want to simply get away to warmer weather for spring break to soak up the sun and recharge their batteries” even if they don’t have any designated time off, American Automobile Association (AAA) Travel Senior Vice President Paula Twidale tells Condé Nast Traveler .

While this year’s spring breakers are following certain past patterns of sunny escapes, new trends have also emerged—including increased interest in cruises, international journeys, and solar eclipse trips . As always, some travelers are intentionally planning around popular destinations and dates in order to find better deals and uncharted experiences. Whether you prefer a viral or an under-the-radar vacation, here are the top spring break trends to know this year, based on data and insights from major travel companies.

AAA data shows a 28% leap in cruise bookings for March and April compared to last year.

Florida cruise vacations are on the rise

To get away from the dreary climate, Americans are dreaming of sunny getaways, paired with pools, beaches, and outdoor activities. “Cruise vacations check all those boxes,” Twidale said in a release .

AAA’s data shows a 28% leap in cruise bookings for March and April compared to 2023, including a 60% increase in sailings leaving from South Florida. In fact, many were eager to book those spring break cruises, locking in their reservations earlier than in previous years. As a result, many cruises during this time period are already sold out. Some last-minute deals may still be available, but prices tend to be higher with limited cabin choices.

“Cruising’s popularity just continues to grow," AAA’s Cruise Relations Manager Scott Campbell tells Traveler . “Travelers are recognizing the value and convenience that cruising offers.” But he cautions not to confuse “value” with “deals,” since “the day of cheap cruises is over.” With demand rising, so are prices. Still, Campbell says that in general, cruises are often more affordable than a land-based vacation.

The South Florida ports of Fort Lauderdale and Miami are increasingly popular in part because of the debut of the world’s largest cruise ship Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas in January, which can carry up to 7,600 people every week on Caribbean cruises. Port Canaveral, an hour from Orlando , remains the busiest cruise port on the globe (a title previously held by Port Miami), with more than four million people sailing from there in 2022, Campbell says.

Flight bookings to international destinations are up 20% compared to March and April of last year, according to AAA.

Americans are more willing to venture outside the US

Summer may be the time for major long-haul getaways, but that doesn’t mean that Americans are shying away from using their passports during spring break. Bookings for international flights are up 20% and for hotels are up 37% compared to March and April of last year, AAA Travel said in its spring break forecast .

“Europe has always been a popular destination for spring break, especially for educational touring and for families looking to reunite during the break,” Twidale tells Traveler . Americans are especially drawn towards the capital cities with London , Paris , Rome , Dublin , and Amsterdam , topping the list of AAA’s most popular getaways.

But not everyone is looking to cross the Atlantic Ocean. Flying south to sunnier skies is also a popular choice, particularly to the Caribbean , Barbados , Dominican Republic , and Mexico , she says.

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Jessica Puckett

Shana Clarke

Expedia’s data echoes that, with Paris as its top European destination, but interest in Tokyo also continues to rise, showing that Americans are willing to go the distance during the shorter travel season. “Tokyo has emerged as one of the fastest-growing destinations for US travelers post-pandemic, maintaining an upward trajectory with year-over-year searches soaring by nearly 55% for the second consecutive year,” Expedia Travel Expert Christie Hudson says. The cherry blossoms remain a major draw this time of year for Japan.

The Asia-bound trend is also strong over at Priceline, with bucket-list destinations seeing tremendous search spikes. The online travel site has seen a nearly 400% rise in searches for Hong Kong for the period, as well as 361% to Taipei, Taiwan , and 149% to Bangkok . Its data also shows increased interest in Kyoto, Japan ; Manila, Philippines ; and Singapore .

Pensacola, Florida is a popular and affordable spring break destination.

Travelers are seeking out affordable alternatives

Early spring traditionally is described as one of two shoulder seasons —travel periods between the peak and off-peak seasons when prices are lower, crowds are still thin, but weather is evening out, Priceline’s Consumer Travel Expert Christina Bennett says. (The other is early fall.)

Now travelers are growing even savvier and pairing shoulder season with so-called dupe destinations, which she says is “a new term for more off-the-beaten path destinations that offer the same vibes and experiences as a peak destination.” Another trend is staying in “shoulder cities,” which she describes as a “nearby destination on the outskirts of a tourist hub.” For example, one might stay in Queens or Hoboken, New Jersey, when visiting New York City’s midtown Manhattan. More “moderately priced accommodations can be found in these neighboring locales while travelers can still enjoy easy access to the same vacation highlights,” Bennett explains.

Case in point: Priceline has seen a 20% rise in hotel searches for the shoulder city of Kissimmee, Florida, where hotel rates average $142 a night, compared to the $250 rate in Orlando proper.

By skirting both the peak times and most popular places, “this year’s spring break travelers are seeking ways to save without sacrificing experience,” Bennett says. Trending destinations that fall into this category include Pensacola, Florida; Fresno, California; and Knoxville, Tennessee, according to Priceline’s data.

US travelers are planning domestic getaways around the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024.

The solar eclipse is increasing early April demand

While spring break travel traditionally runs the entire months of March and April, this year’s peak weeks are being dictated by the sun—quite literally.

With a total solar eclipse that will be visible from the US, passing from Texas northeast into New York, on April 8, 2024, the rare event is marking the confluence of already busy periods of April 1 to 8. “Historically, this week marks the peak of spring travel activity” in part because of the Easter holiday, Hudson says.

Expedia's data shows rising travel interest in cities that are located in the eclipse’s path of totality. Flight searches for Dallas and Austin have both risen over 90% for the spring period, marking some of the greatest year-over-year growth.

That also means that the week of April 2 will be the most expensive to fly for domestic travelers—and be the busiest for both domestic and international travelers. Meanwhile, March 12 will be the most expensive for international travel, according to Expedia. Budget-conscious travelers should hone in on the week of April 23 for domestic and March 5 for international trips for the lowest prices, Hudson suggests.

The first week of March and the last week of April are more affordable and less-busy spring travel periods.

Spring travel is cheaper this year

Despite the celestial event causing a shift, overall spring travel is cheaper this year. Airfare in March is 3% less than last year, and April is 8% less, according to Kayak's spring break forecast.

In March, the cheapest domestic getaways include Baltimore with $265 average airfare, Nashville with $277, and Chicago with $288, while international ones are all on the continent: Toronto with $303 average airfare; Guadalajara, Mexico with $336; and Montreal with $361. In April, the best US deals are Denver with $286 average airfare, Chicago with $283, and Tampa with $294, and international destinations are San Salvador, El Salvador with $300; Toronto with $326; and Vancouver with $331.

On top of it, travelers aren’t being shy about their savings. “Travelers proudly showing off their deals and savings has become a craze amongst spring breakers,” Bennett says, in a trend Priceline has dubbed as “loud budgeting.”

“For those who have wiggle room, I recommend traveling the first week of March or the last week of April because it’s more affordable and half as busy,” Hudson suggests. For those with set schedules, she suggests leaving on a Tuesday instead of a weekend, which will historically save about 15%

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Chris Hemsworth and Elsa Pataky are the picture-perfect couple as they make their Met Gala debut

The thor actor shared a tender kiss with his wife elsa atop the iconic met gala steps.

Chris Hemsworth made a striking debut at the Met Gala , looking every inch the leading man in a suave three-piece suit by Tom Ford, styled to showcase his famously athletic physique. 

The 40-year-old Australian actor, known globally for his role as Thor, graced the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute with an air of elegance and a hint of daring, leaving his suit tantalizingly unbuttoned to reveal a muscular chest.

Accompanying him was his equally glamorous wife, Elsa Pataky, 47, who captivated onlookers with her modern Rapunzel-like appearance. 

Elsa shimmered in a gold gown that radiated sophistication, complete with a mock turtleneck and gold cuffs. Her ensemble was perfectly topped off with a custom gold Jennifer Behr flower crown, complementing her intricately braided golden tresses.

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The stunning couple, who have long captured the hearts of fans with their enduring romance, wrapped their arms around each other for the cameras. 

They even shared a tender kiss atop the iconic Met Gala steps, adding a touch of romance to the glamorous evening.

Speaking to Entertainment Tonight, Chris admitted that both attending the Met Gala and his revealing scene in Thor: Love and Thunder were daunting experiences, but he found the gala to be a fun challenge.

 "It's all pretty intimidating, but this is fun," he shared, expressing honor in serving as a co-chair for the gala alongside stars like Jennifer Lopez, Zendaya, and Bad Bunny.

Peter Hawkings, Creative Director at Tom Ford, expressed his delight in dressing Chris and Elsa for the evening, noting that they both "embody the ethos I am creating at Tom Ford of sensuality, confidence, and cool and wear their looks with ease and allure."

The event, held annually on the first Monday in May, unveiled this year's theme, Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion, with a dress code dubbed "The Garden of Time." 

The gala chairs, including Chris, were joined by fashion and entertainment luminaries to celebrate The Costume Institute’s new exhibition.

The exhibition, as described by Andrew Bolton, Wendy Yu Curator in Charge of The Costume Institute, is an "ode to nature and the emotional poetics of fashion," featuring around 250 items from the institute’s permanent collection. These pieces, some too fragile to be worn again, were displayed with innovative elements like AI and CGI, emphasizing themes of land, sea, and sky.

The star-studded event was expected to draw a host of celebrities, including the Kardashians, Blake Lively, Hailey Bieber, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Timothée Chalamet, among others.

 The evening also featured hosting by Gwendoline Christie, La La Anthony, and Ashley Graham, with YouTuber Emma Chamberlain interviewing stars on the red carpet.

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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I'm a Writer in Paris, and These Are the 12 Bag Styles that French Girls Are Carrying Into Summer — From $19

Don’t wait for the next season of Emily in Paris to discover these stylish finds that start at just $19.

Travel + Leisure / Daisy Rodriguez

In Paris, as weekends are planned around cafe terrasses and parks where we can soak up the most sun, French fashion is also shifting with the season . We’re slowly packing away puffer coats and wool winter jackets in favor of lightweight denim and linen blazers, with silk scarves tied expertly in place. Besides being able to wear dresses without tights, in spring I also love people-watching and seeing signs of what’s to come for summer — especially when it comes to bags. 

While catching up with friends for coffee at one of my go-tos like Partisan near Le Marais, I’ve noticed that even though temperatures are still in the 50s, everyone is dressing for the weather we want . Girls are wearing matching shorts-and-blazer sets with camel-colored crossbody purses or canvas bucket bags that could double as a beach tote (but for now carry a book to read in Parc des Buttes-Chaumont). In a city like Paris, where fashion and functionality so effortlessly come together, choosing a bag is similar to figuring out footwear for the day .

This summer, Parisians are trading out totes and fanny packs in favor of sleek slings, vintage-inspired shoulder bags, and crossbody phone purses that are pickpocket-proof yet still look chic. From splurge-worthy leather bags at Madewell to vibrant top-handle clutches at Amazon for less than $20, these 12 styles are all you need to get into the spirit of summer in France, whether you’re visiting Paris during the Olympics or plan to bask at beach clubs on the Riviera. 

Everlane The Studio Bag

Similar to New York, Paris is a city where you often spend the entire day running around and don’t have the chance to make it back to your Airbnb or hotel to freshen up before the next meal or museum visit. Cotton tote bags (especially these illustrated ones from legendary bookshop Shakespeare and Company ) have become as essential as an umbrella or sunglasses. A more structured alternative that will hold everything you need for the day yet still looks elegant for a nice dinner, Everlane’s The Studio Bag is the ideal compromise. 

Roomy enough for a 13-inch laptop, the cognac-colored leather purse snaps closed and has an adjustable shoulder strap, so it can fit snugly by your side. “I've been carrying this bag every day for a few weeks. It is a great size — holds everything without looking giant,” raves one shopper. “The quality of the leather is excellent, and, so far, I haven't seen any sign of it breaking down. The strap is wide enough that it never digs into my shoulder, despite carrying multiple books and a laptop.” I couldn’t imagine higher praise for a purse.

Bostanten Vegan Leather Crossbody Phone Bag

A super savvy take on a phone purse, this compact crossbody conveniently holds everything you’ll need on a trip to Paris in its cleverly designed pockets. The front phone space is disguised under the magnetic snap and can fit larger models like the iPhone Pro, while the main double pockets zip shut and one side has four built-in card slots. 

Great for cycling around town and practically pickpocket-proof for the train or métro , this is one affordable crossbody that looks chic (you can hardly tell it’s vegan leather!) yet is one of the most practical travel purses I’ve seen in a while. More than 5,000 reviewers are also fans: “I purchased this for a Caribbean cruise vacation, and I fit three passports, credit cards, a driver’s license, hotel keycard, car keys, a ship sea pass, and still had room for lipstick, a folded excursion map, receipts, and other essentials,” raved one shopper . “It can be used as a crossbody bag or on the shoulder, or you could also remove the strap and use it as a clutch. I might buy another in a different color.”

Madewell The Sling Crossbody

For a while, sling bags were replaced by fanny packs that are easier to adjust and pin across your chest while cycling or strolling through town. However, Bottega Veneta’s slouchy woven handbags reintroduced the look in a more stylish fashion, and this more functional version from Madewell allows the sling to shift from a shoulder bag to a crossbody. 

The adjustable strap offers more than enough support when worn across your body for a day of sightseeing or biking through vineyards in Provence. Plus, the woven straw material is the ideal look for a summer bag. “I've already gotten many compliments and I've only had this bag a week,” says one shopper. “Also, if you're like me and don't read descriptions, surprise — there's an outside zippered pocket that's perfect for a phone!” 

Telena Small Leather Sling Bag

As someone who has never gotten on board with a backpack (as a student at the University of Florida, I remained loyal to my Longchamp Le Pliage tote), I’ve always favored a fanny pack or sling as a hands-free option for traveling or music festivals. One of 35 different styles from Telena, this boho-chic crossbody sling is compact yet has room for nearly everything you need thanks to multiple organized pockets. An anti-theft pocket on the side can store money and IDs, while the front pouch opens to reveal five card slots, so you can leave bulky wallets at home. 

Even better, the design is reversible, so you can wear it comfortably on either side, depending on your preference. “I didn't think I would like a front sling purse, but I do!” raves one shopper . “It's the perfect size, feels like good quality, sits comfortably on me, and is great for everyday or travel — definitely recommend.”

Madewell The Essential Mini Bucket Tote

In the summer, I tend to go for the most lightweight option possible when it comes to a bag. When I came across this mini bucket tote at Madewell , I knew I found my new city bag. With a magnetic closure and interior pocket, this pint-sized version of the classic staple purse is spacious enough to carry everything I need (phone, keys, wallet, Glossier lip balm, portable charger), yet it’s still slim and streamlined. 

The shape is structured and sophisticated, and the cream color paired with gold hardware gives it that quiet luxury look everyone is embracing at the moment (thank you Succession !). As one shopper said, “ I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the magnet closure that snaps in place so that my belongings don't spill out. GET IT NOW if you're looking for a quality everyday bag that goes with everything.” 

JW PEI Joy Shoulder Bag

Fashion is a series of cycles and we’re reliving those '90s vibes that back then we couldn’t wait to be rid of. I, for one, am enjoying digging into the depths of my closet (and my older friends’ wardrobes) and reviving some of these gems that look similar to this slim, curved shoulder bag from JW Pei.

In Paris, this purse can go from day to night, matching everything from a floral midi button-down dress to tapered jeans with a white button-down and blazer. In the evenings, pair it with a little navy dress and strappy heeled sandals for a stylish date night ensemble that’ll have you fitting right in on your next trip to the City of Light.

Sézane Claude Bag

Sézane is one of those French brands that really can do no wrong. Each collection is as Parisian model-worthy as the next (and yes, they do actually love this brand), yet the pieces aren’t trendy. They’re timeless staples that’ll look just as fashionable in five or 10 years — and they’re known to be durable enough to last that long, too. (What's more, T+L editors love the brand , too.)

This half-moon shoulder bag is my leather go-to for the summer. Oversized but not clunky, the vintage-inspired periwinkle-blue bag can be worn crossbody or over the shoulder and, in addition to an inside and outside patch pocket, there’s also a zipped one to keep valuables secure. Italian-crafted with an adjustable leather strap and metal clasp with light gold finish, this smooth cowhide-leather purse is sleek but still strong enough to hold books, a notebook, and other items you’ll need for a day out in the city. This model is even customizable and can be monogrammed in gold on the back of the bag — voilà, the perfect gift for that friend who has everything. 

Zara Mesh Bucket Bag

The French have a way of making even something as simple as a mesh grocery shopping bag look chic. In summer, these bags often double as beach tote s, stuffed with Turkish towels and espadrilles. A version that plays on the simple household staple and gives it a major upgrade is this bucket bag from Zara, which is lined with an interior fabric bag and closes shut with a drawstring. Buckles cinch either side of the adjustable shoulder strap making it feel more like a purse than a casual carry-all for the market — although it would be a very stylish way to store produce from the morning marché in Paris. 

If you're looking for an affordable beach bag that will ship quickly ahead of your next trip, take a look at this $14 mesh tote at Amazon that's become so popular, more than 3,000 were bought last month. It has more than 6,500 perfect reviews and an impressive 4.7 rating, so you know it's been properly vetted.

Jiechengjophoo Mini Top-Handle Crossbody

Lately, on the métro, I’ve been noticing purses are micro-sized, large enough to hold AirPods, lip gloss, and a few credit cards. This tangerine top handle clutch is a stylish way to store accessories, and — the best part! — you won’t have to dig around to find them. The faux croc makes this glorified coin purse look much more expensive than it is. And, at under $20, it’s an easy purchase that doesn’t require a huge investment but will add that much-welcome pop of color signifying summer is finally here. 

As someone who only recently got on the bandwagon when it comes to colors that aren’t neutral, this shade — which resembles Hermès orange — is one I’ve been gravitating toward lately for everything from dresses to bags. “It's sooo cute — it’s a perfect ‘leave your purse at home’ date night kinda purse,” says one shopper . Another adds : “I have a Michael Kors orange purse and wallet and this color is a pretty good match! This purse is awesome quality for the price and is sewn really well.” 

J.Crew Berkeley Bucket Bag

A bucket bag is a timeless piece that deserves a place in your purse rotation, but what I love about summer in Europe is how canvas becomes the de facto fabric for the season — and this version is one of the chicest I’ve seen yet. Trimmed with cognac-colored leather with stripes running down either side and a simple tie closure, this bucket bag is structured without being bulky — and has enough space to tote a laptop or books. 

The oar-shaped details at the base of the handles (a nod to the brand’s labels from the ‘80s and ‘90s) gives it a sophisticated, vintage feel, and you can even add a personalized touch with a gold or silver foil monogram stamp. I can’t wait to wear this with a trench coat and sailor jeans in late spring or with patterned Zimmermann shorts and a breezy linen top in summer when I’m down in Nice and Cannes. It’s also a much more affordable alternative to pricey designer counterparts from Saint Laurent and Celine. 

JW PEI Aylin Canvas & Quinn Vegan Leather Cell Phone Crossbody Bag

You might’ve noticed a pattern of phone bags and canvas galore, and this polished crossbody, which is loved by Oprah , beautifully combines the two trends. The phone bag is swathed in textured canvas with black leather trim and a black vegan leather back. There are plenty of credit card slots, a pocket for your phone secured by a snap closure, and your keys can be hung from the outside hook.  “This bag is solid and well made,” a shopper wrote . “It’s very practical yet very stylish for on the go.”

In summer, when you want to feel as light as possible, this sleek crossbody won’t weigh you down as you’re cycling along the coast in Brittany or strolling through medieval perched villages in Provence. Plus, you can easily throw it into a larger travel tote so that it’s easier to find your phone and essentials while on a plane. Shop it in a brown version too, which seems to be the color for summer 2024.

Rouje Small Leather Bibi Bag

This vintage-inspired style from French-girl cool brand Rouje is a great everyday summer staple that can be worn with breezy dresses and wedges, a bikini and knit coverup, or with a more dressed-up ensemble like wide-leg jeans, a tailored linen blazer, and micro kitten heels. Adjustable so it can be worn over the shoulder or crossbody, this timeless piece is one that I’ll never get tired of — and it’ll be a great travel bag to bring on my trips since it’s compact and structured enough to pack in a carry-on and won’t get crushed.

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