As the world beckons with new opportunities for exploration and indulgence, discerning travelers seek nothing less than the extraordinary. You might ask yourself what are the best places to travel to in the world right now?
For those looking for the best places to go, Exceptional Villas is delighted to present the top five destinations to visit in 2024.
From the turquoise waters of Barbados to the enchanting landscapes of Italy, each location offers a unique blend of sophistication, exclusivity, and unparalleled experiences.
Top 5 places to go in 2024
Barbados – The Gem of the Caribbean:
Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, Barbados is a jewel that radiates luxury at every turn.
Renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and upscale resorts, Barbados is a haven for those seeking a perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence.
Exclusive beachfront villas and private estates dot the coastline, providing the ideal retreat for high-end travelers.
The island’s rich history and warm hospitality add to its allure, making Barbados a must-visit destination in 2024.
Reasons to Visit:
- Exclusive beachfront accommodations
- World-class dining and nightlife
- Water activities in crystal-clear Caribbean waters
- Cultural richness and heritage exploration
Where to stay: Smugglers Cove 5 – Paynes Bay, Barbados
Nestled in the heart of Barbados’ most exclusive location, Smugglers Cove 5 stands as an unparalleled retreat for those seeking the epitome of luxury.
This immaculately furnished, luxurious 4-bedroom villa offers breathtaking views of the pristine white sandy beach and azure sea at Payne’s Bay, renowned as one of Barbados’ best.
Boasting a generous 6,500 square feet, the fully air-conditioned property accommodates eight guests.
The expansive terrace, overlooking the tranquil sea, provides an idyllic space for outdoor relaxation, dining, and entertainment.
Located near the prestigious Sandy Lane Hotel, Smugglers Cove 5 offers not only a serene beach but also proximity to world-class oceanfront restaurants.
With a dedicated housekeeper, chef, and concierge, this villa ensures a pampered experience, making it the ultimate choice for a luxurious Caribbean retreat.
What our Barbados villa specialist Yvonne says:
Read what our guests have to say.
St. Barts – Caribbean Elegance Redefined:
St. Barts is one of the best places to travel to for luxury travelers to experience a refined escape.
This idyllic island is synonymous with upscale living, boasting designer boutiques, gourmet dining, and lavish accommodations.
St. Barts is an exclusive sanctuary where visitors can enjoy the serenity of pristine beaches, exquisite villas, and a chic lifestyle that defines luxury at its best.
Reasons to Visit:
- Exclusive shopping and designer boutiques
- Michelin-starred dining experiences
- Private villas with breathtaking ocean views
- Secluded and pristine beaches
Where to stay: Super Sky – St Barts
Super Sky is an enchanting 3-bedroom retreat nestled near the renowned St Jean beach and Eden Rock hotel.
This villa offers the perfect blend of privacy and proximity to the island’s top amenities including some of the best places to eat in St Barts.
Ideal for families or friends, Super Sky accommodates up to 6 guests, providing a tropical oasis for an unforgettable Caribbean vacation.
The villa’s single-level layout boasts unobstructed views of the azure sea, complemented by two private pools and abundant outdoor seating, sun loungers, and a cozy hammock.
Check out what Alexandra Baradi, the owner of Exceptional Villas has to say about Super Sky:
See what our clients say here.
Mexico – Riviera Maya’s Opulent Retreat:
Beyond its vibrant cultural tapestry, Mexico’s Riviera Maya emerges as a high-end travel hotspot in 2024.
This tropical paradise offers a fusion of luxury and authenticity.
From the opulent resorts of Cancun to the exclusive hideaways in Tulum, Mexico caters to the discerning traveler seeking a taste of luxury amidst the rich Mexican heritage.
Reasons to Visit:
- Private resorts with world-class amenities
- Ancient ruins and cultural excursions
- High-end wellness retreats
- Gourmet Mexican cuisine
Where to stay: Kin Ich – Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya Mexico
A spectacular 7-bedroom beachfront haven in Playa Del Carmen.
This architecturally dramatic villa in the exclusive Playacar community seamlessly combines contemporary style with Mexican-inspired charm.
Enjoy a stunning outdoor terrace with a pool, steps from the beach, and a rooftop terrace for sunset cocktails and alfresco dining.
With a prime location near Playa’s 5th Avenue, renowned for its vibrant dining and nightlife, the villa offers daily chef and butler services, accommodating up to 20 guests.
Check out our blog on the best things to do in Playa del Carmen
Read what our guest have to say about Kin Inch
Italy – Amalfi Coast’s Timeless Grandeur:
The Amalfi Coast in Italy stands as a testament to timeless grandeur and sophistication. It is by far one of the best places to go in Europe.
This picturesque coastline, dotted with pastel-colored villages, offers a sublime retreat for luxury travelers.
Exclusive villas overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, Michelin-starred dining, and unparalleled cultural experiences make the Amalfi Coast a dream destination for those seeking the epitome of Italian elegance.
Reasons to Visit:
- Stunning coastal villas with panoramic views
- Culinary delights and Michelin-starred restaurants
- Cultural treasures, including Pompeii and Capri
- Romantic and intimate atmosphere
Where to stay: Giulia – Positano, Italy
Villa Giulia is a 6-bedroom villa located in an elevated position in Positano on the Amalfi Coast.
Just a 15-minute walk from Piazza dei Mulini, the villa offers breathtaking views of Positano and the Gulf.
The décor, in calming white tones, exudes modern sophistication.
A highlight is the wellness area with a private indoor pool and Turkish bath.
All bedrooms are air-conditioned, and amenities include an elevator, indoor and outdoor hot tubs, and panoramic sea views, providing 4,600 square feet of pure luxury.
The property is in a wonderful location close to the best things to do in Positano.
What our Italy villa specialist Paul has to say:
Croatia – Dubrovnik’s Coastal Paradise:
Croatia, with its Adriatic charm, is one of the best places to travel to. It has become a playground for luxury travelers, and Dubrovnik stands as its crown jewel.
The medieval architecture, coupled with the azure waters of the Adriatic, creates an enchanting backdrop for high-end experiences.
From yacht cruises to private island retreats, Croatia offers a diverse range of luxury experiences that cater to the elite traveler.
Reasons to Visit:
- Exclusive yacht charters along the Dalmatian Coast
- Game of Thrones-inspired tours in Dubrovnik
- Secluded island getaways
- Rich history and cultural heritage
Where to stay: Villa Fortuna Hvar, Croatia
Villa Fortuna is a luxurious 5-bedroom retreat on Hvar, Croatia.
This stunning property offers an elegant living and dining area, five bedrooms with sea-view balconies, and a wellness area in the basement.
A dedicated concierge and villa manager ensure a seamless vacation, while the infinity pool terrace provides breathtaking views and direct access to a pebble beach.
The outdoor dining area and modern interior, featuring designer furniture and a Sonos sound system, create a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication.
With incredible views and spectacular sunsets, Villa Fortuna is your gateway to a dream European vacation on the mesmerizing island of Hvar.
What our villa specialist for Croatia, Aoife says:
In conclusion, these five destinations beckon the high-end traveler to embark on a journey filled with luxury, exclusivity, and unforgettable experiences in 2024.
Whether it’s the Caribbean allure of Barbados and St. Barts, the cultural richness of Italy, or the coastal extravagance of Mexico and Croatia, each destination promises a bespoke and indulgent escape for the discerning explorer.
About Niamh McCarthy
Niamh is our Caribbean Travel Specialist and has an in-depth knowledge of all of the islands in the Caribbean. Niamh's qualifications are in the area of Business Management and Marketing with a Bachelor degree in Business Management and a Masters degree in Public Relations. Niamh has worked for over 10 years in the travel industry and has also spent time working in the United States.