The hotlist: Where to go in 2024
The top spots that deserve your attention this year
Swiss Charms
The natural beauty of Switzerland has always been a draw, but for 2024, it also offers an appealing prospect for those looking for a European escape away from all the sport, with Germany hosting the footy and the Olympics heading to France. According to tour operator Kirker, bookings to Switzerland are already up 300% compared to last year. Plus, you could combine nature with an experiential trip such as a wine tour to the Lavaux region, with the stunning UNESCO-listed vineyard terraces fringing Lake Geneva.
Shoulder-season Spain
Given the increasingly sweltering summers in Southern Europe, a growing number of travellers are looking to visit much loved holiday hotspots in shoulder and low seasons. It’s cooler, cheaper and quieter. Andalucía is a great candidate for this with fabulous walks in the spring, festivals in the autumn, and mild winters, notes Sunvil. It’s perfect for a foodie-centred holiday, and is well-connected by rail so you can take in historic Seville, Cordoba and Granada.
Stunning Sri Lanka
After a tumultuous period, Sri Lanka is back on its feet and poised to be a top destination for 2024, with its stunning beaches, peaceful highlands and incredible food. Relax among the tea plantations. Stay in a restored tea factory (Thema Collection) where you can pick your own tea and go for tea-themed treatments in the spa. Or hike along the new Pekoe Trail. There’s a new food festival, Gourmet Galle, and you can take a tour for foodies with Experience Travel Group with highlights including Kandy, the hill country, and the South Coast
Thema Collection
Off-the-beaten track Italy
One of the most popular destinations of all, and no wonder. But demand is higher than ever and Italy’s tourist board has announced that visitor numbers in 2024 are expected to exceed those of 2023, which saw a record 13 million overnight stays, double the number of 2022. Tourist Italy offers tours to lesser known cities like Lucca, as well as visiting key sites without the crowds such as a sunrise tour in Tuscany. Tuscany is also on Lonely Planet’s radar for this year – but the emphasis is on slow travel, seeking out hiking trails and farmhouse cuisine.
St Lucia for culture
While luxury all-inclusive is the mainstay of Caribbean tourism, an increasing number of travellers to the region are seeking more authentic stays. Lonely Planet’s hotlist for 2024 has cited St Lucia as being the one to watch. Not only does it have natural beauty in abundance – think the dramatic Pitons rising out of the sea – but also plenty of cultural heritage and traditions too.
Yorkshire – food and walks
Take an amble around the Dales. The spectacular countryside makes it a ramblers’ favourite. All Creatures Great and Small fans can take a trip along the James Heriot Way (Walkers’ Britain). The county has a burgeoning food scene, too, with Michelin starred spots including The Black Swan at Oldstead and the Angel at Hetton, as well as many more eateries with Michelin Plates. Try Pignut, with a big emphasis on local sourcing
