Where: Anguilla, Caribbean
Why: You’ll be hard pressed to find beaches more spectacular in the Caribbean jipthan on the beautiful British overseas territory of Anguilla. From long stretches of pristine white sand on Rendezvous Bay to the sparkling Maundays Bay, Anguilla is a honeymoon hot spot and also ideal for family holidays. The iconic Belmond Cap Juluca will soon reopen on December 15th after a complete renovation and will feature a brand new oceanfront infinity edge pool as well as a touch of Venetian glamour at the new Cip’s by Cipriani restaurant. There will also be a new Cap Shack, where you’ll sip rum punch and dine on beach BBQ tapas from a food truck while swaying to cool calypso tunes under the stars.
Where: Los Cabos, Mexico
Why: You might think you know about Los Cabos, but did you know that one of the largest, protected national marine parks in the world is just 60 miles south? Cabo Pulmo National Park used to be heavily overfished before the park became officially protected in the 90s; it’s also a UNESCO site because of its rich biodiversity, high marine productivity and beauty. Cabo Pulmo stretches five miles along the coast of Baja California Sur and houses the oldest living reef of on the west coast of North America. (Fishermen have been taught how to be dive masters to keep the ocean healthy and full of fish.) There, you can find sea turtles, sea lions, dolphins and humpback whales. Thanks to the success of the national marine park, travelers can now kayak, go stand-up paddleboarding or snorkel/scuba dive with sea lions and even (friendly) bull sharks. Back in Los Cabos, visit chef Enrique Silva’s working organic farm and restaurant at Los Tamarindos, where you can pick your produce and make a meal with him. There are a number of hotels to check out, including a recently opened Montage Los Cabos and the forthcoming Four Seasons Costa Palmas, slated to open in 2019. My pick: the sustainable Hotel El Ganzo, which has an artist-in-residence program and a music recording studio. The hotel also supports the children’s community art center across the street.
Where: Placencia, Belize
Why: When you think of Belize, you think of the cays or the inland eco-resorts. But further south on the mainland is Placencia, a cute waterfront fishing village with bright houses and buildings that is slowly being discovered. It’s also home to Itz’ana, the first luxury resort in the area. The owner collects Mayan artifacts, and this is his second independent hotel in Belize (the first was Ka’ana in San Ignacio). At Itz’ana, the lobby is designed to feel like you’re in a guest house, not a hotel. In addition to the stunning rooms in the main property, there are also villas with private plunge pools.
Where: Cartagena, Colombia
Why: Cartagena is a riot of color, cuisine and culture. Where to stay? Casa San Agustin is situated in the center of the action inside the city walls. It’s a romantic getaway with unique features, like a pool running beneath a centuries old aqueduct.
Where: Mexico City
Why: Mexico City is going very strong, and I’m not saying that because I’m a local. Just check out the number of hotels that are opening here. Now, joining Ritz-Carlton and Park Hyatt, Kimpton and Sofitel have both announced they will open in Mexico’s capital. This clearly speaks to a rising interest among tourists to explore our city — and I’m pretty sure our gastronomic scene has a lot to do with that, too.
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