Top Destinations for Summer 2023

Top Destinations for Summer 2023

Summer is right around the corner and no matter how many countries you have checked off your list, there's always a new city, region, or country to explore. From air safaris and train adventures, to picturesque towns and tropical lagoons, here are summer vacation ideas:

Cavtat, Croatia - Croatia’s Hidden Gem (pictured)

Cavtat, Croatia, located just south of Dubrovnik, offers a relaxed pace of life, drawing a resemblance to St Tropez before the crowds. The unique town on the Adriatic has a stunning waterfront promenade lined with palm trees, beaches, churches, monuments and museums and full of picturesque outdoor restaurants and cafes, specialty boutiques and gift shops.  There are more than 5 miles of crystal clear water, beaches, and hotels of high and luxury class. Located in the heart of the charming historic center of Cavtat, Hotel Supetar Cavtat reopens May 1 after seasonal closure. After a complete renovation that debuted in July 2022, all 16 stylish rooms were individually redesigned by Croatian designers STUDIO LACROMA in cooperation with Katarina Alamat Kusijanovic. Food lovers savor Mediterranean fare with a focus on products from the sea, seasonal specialties, and local fresh ingredients, including the oranges from the hotel’s garden.  To please the palates of wine lovers, an inviting Wine Bar offers a focus on Dubrovacka Malvasija, the local indigenous white wine grape from the Konavle region. Cavtat is just 10 minutes by bus or taxi from Dubrovnik airport that offers direct flights from New York.

Oslo, Norway - Culture Capital Perfect for Lovers of Heritage, Food and Traditions

Oslo, the capital of Norway, sits on the country’s southern coast at the head of the Oslofjord. It’s known for its green spaces and museums, but specifically its deep roots of culture and heritage. Travelers can take a stroll in one of the many lively neighborhoods while exploring everything from innovative architecture and world-class museums to spirited bars and devine eateries. When looking for a place to stay, travelers can choose from A-One's portfolio of exclusive homes with hotel services like personal welcome, daily housekeeping and round-the-clock concierge - all in complete privacy. Each property meets WELL criteria and places great emphasis on unique architecture, central location, distinctive neighborhoods, hand-picked furniture, and artwork. A bonus - everything in the apartments, including the apartments themselves, are for sale at the touch of an iPad button. For those searching for guidance on planning a trip in Norway, sustainable luxury travel curator Up Norway has created journeys that start and end in Oslo while taking travelers to hidden gems all over the country. The Arctic Circle Express Train Journey allows travelers to see the best cultural highlights, eat local food, and cross the Arctic Circle all while enjoying the never-ending summer nights under the midnight sun. The Modern Luxury In the Realm of Norwegian Folklore journey deep dives into Oslo’s history through activities with local insiders such as visits to landmarks including the Snøhetta designed opera House, futurist Deichman Library, and the new Munch museum along the fjord line.

Riviera Maya, Mexico - Family Favorite Vacation Destination

A true summer vacationer’s paradise, Riviera Maya consists of over a 100-mile stretch of beautiful beaches and tropical oasis. Running along the Yucatan Peninsula, the world-renowned paradise is home to lagoons, mangroves, ancient Mayan cities, ecological reserves, and even the world's second largest coral reef. With activities for those of all ages Riviera Maya remains a fan favorite destination for family travel year after year. At Grand Velas Riviera Maya, Velas Resorts offer special services and activities for all ages to enjoy with their age group or as a family. Younger family members dive into an oasis of fun. Guests ages 4 to 12 can enjoy the ultimate kid’s club complete with board games, XBox and Wii consoles, movies, arts and crafts activities and storytelling that happen daily at the Kids' Club. Teens can enjoy the resort’s teens club featuring a game room, pool table, ping pong, air hockey, foosball, karaoke and more. For Grand Velas’ littlest guests, babies are catered to with a Baby Concierge who can coordinate a crib, Mexican toys, baby floats, gentle bath and shampoo gels, and organic foods in advance. And, to foster quality time together, entertainment for families ranges from astronomy nights, sandcastle building, and human foosball to Mexican Fiesta, drive-in movies, eco-cycling tours, and painting Alebrijes. While the kids are supervised, parents can relax at the SE Spa, awarded 5 stars by Forbes Travel Guide, or dine at one of the resort's 6 fine dining restaurants.

Rome, Italy - For The Fashion and Art Trip of a Lifetime

Will Rome ever go out of style? A simple answer - no. Rome will continue to be a coveted destination this summer due to its fashion scene and perfect mix of art, history, and culture. Travelers looking to enjoy the Eternal City from a new perspective will delight in a stay at Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese. With a new offering from the hotel, men are invited to revamp their style by creating a custom wardrobe with the help of Italian fashion influencer, menswear consultant, and model Giorgio Giangiulio. He will share the key elements to a classic Italian wardrobe, coordinate stops at some of the city’s top custom wardrobe spots, and offer styling tricks to guests. Ladies can opt for a luxury fashion experience featuring a private wardrobe curated by Italian fashion influencer Selvaggia Capizzi. Selvaggia curates unique experiences for guests at renowned design houses and new hot spot boutiques all over the historical city. For photography lovers, an all new experience allows travelers to capture the Eternal City from the lens of renowned photographer Ryan Neeven. Through tailored experiences, guests will embark on a photo tour around Rome led by the @DoorsofItaly founder to not only see the historical sites, culinary highlights and modern marvels of the city, but also learn how to professionally capture them. Travelers visiting Rome even have the possibility to explore the Eternal City’s secret sites with ArcheoRunning during a  Hidden Rome Tour. Participants will immerse themselves in the narrow streets of Rome while hearing unique stories during a two-hour tour with Isabella Calidonna, an art historian, certified tour guide and coach for Fidal (Italian Athletics Federation) and Coni (Italian National Olympic Committee). 

Mendoza, Argentina - Cool Break:

For travelers looking for a cool break to escape the summer heat, winter in Mendoza, Argentina is the ultimate time of year to explore its vast wonders. The cool days are illuminated by warm sunshine allowing travelers to enjoy every activity that’s available in the land of Malbec. In Mendoza the temperature ranges from 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit during this time of year, making it the perfect destination for outdoor activities during the day and also ideal to relax and unwind during the night. Travelers can choose to stay at the new SB Winemaker’s House & Spa Suites, from pioneer Argentine winemaker Susana Balbo, where the in house experience coordinator can help guests choose from various activities such as horseback riding, trekking, air safari aboard a private seaplane, heli wine tour, and even a hot air balloon over the vineyards. Of course a visit to the Susana Balbo Winery is a must when in the destination, and in winter guests can enjoy lunch on the outdoor terrace of the winery restaurant. After a day full of exploration and adventure, guests can retire to SB Winemaker’s House & Spa Suites to enjoy on property activities as wine tastings, cooking classes, blending games, wellness rituals, gastronomy offerings, and more. 

Martha’s Vineyard - Winnetu Oceanside Resort – Edgartown

The Winnetu Oceanside Resort is located at South Beach in Edgartown – where everyone visiting Martha’s Vineyard wants to be. Styled after the traditional New England grand seaside resorts, the Winnetu is set beside natural dunes and at the head of world-class hiking and biking trails, perfect for explorative summer afternoons. The Winnetu epitomizes the best of island living for guests of all ages with additional activities such as kayaking, golf, deep sea fishing, sailing and lighthouse and Island tours. The top three favorite summer adventures at the Winnetu include:

  • Ice cream for breakfast? Yes please! - Parents, enjoy downtime back home while grandparents happily indulge their grandkids with The Grandparents Package. Perfect for summer activities, this package includes ice cream for breakfast, nightly s’mores, $100 F & B credit to be used at the resort’s General Store featuring breakfast and lunch options, daily firetruck rides, complimentary shuttle service to Martha’s Vineyard popular Oaks Bluff area for shopping and exploring and both
  • Take a water taxi cruise - Meander through sheltered Katama Bay, by waterfront estates and wooden sailboats, to the dock at the head of Main Street in Edgartown. Edgartown offers wonderful boutique shopping and dining during a visit
  • Antique fire truck and vehicle rides - For kids and adults alike, the Winnetu offers breezy summer rides in beautifully restored vintage vehicles. From antique fire trucks to wood paneled Jitney’s, the antique aesthetic is amiable. These fantastic rides are Included in the complimentary kids program. The kids program is offered from morning to evening for children ages 3-12. Daily activities include science learning, nature hunts, arts and crafts, local farm activities, yoga, mini olympics, golf, kayaking and more

Nantucket, MA - The Nantucket Hotel

The Nantucket Hotel, a refurbished, all-season property is the last of the grand dame, New England-style Resorts on Nantucket and features all of the modern comforts one would expect from a casually upscale, coastal resort, while providing the warm ambiance and superior service of a bygone era. The Nantucket Hotel is nestled prominently in the heart of downtown Nantucket with its charming, cobblestoned streets and renowned restaurants and shops. It is within walking distance of museums, and beaches. This idyllic and quaint place is perfect for summer exploration and leisure with family and friends. Here are a few of their signature summer experiences:

  • Experience the best of both islands with the Two - island adventure - This two-in-one experience allows guests to experience Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard for the summer trip of a lifetime. The adventure is completely orchestrated by The Nantucket, so guests can sit back, relax and enjoy their time. Upon arrival by both boat and car, this fun jaunt from Nantucket to the Vineyard is an overnight stay at each Little Gem Resort in Massachusetts or a day visit. The package includes dining credits, reservation assistance and drop-off/pick-up transportation
  • New England clambake - Enjoy a golden summer evening of live music and a classic New England clambake on the Vineyard. S’mores and stargazing are encouraged into the evening to finish off a dazzling evening
  • Pup and Play at The Nantucket - There’s no better way to enjoy a vacation than with furry friends. The Pup and Play package provides a basket of pup biscuits, dog beds and bowls, Greenies dental treats and a bottle of prosecco as well as complimentary continental breakfast - both for humans only

U.S. Virgin Islands - Lovango Resort & Beach Club – St. John

Lovango is a private island resort destination in the USVI accessible via a ten-minute ferry from Cruz Bay, St. John or Redhook, St. Thomas or by private charter. Home to 45 acres of unobstructed nature along the Caribbean Ocean, the resort provides guests with the best of the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Summer is the most affordable time to visit the USI, offering a less crowded experience than its winter counterpart. The island is filled with beachside activities including a 70-foot infinity pool, access to the National Park Services’ beaches on St. John, private boat rides, waterfront dining, shopping at boutiques in Lovango Village and much more. New for 2023 at Lovango:

  • Six brand-new Glamping Tents and Glamping Tent Duo, designed by Michael Kramer of Michael Thomas & CO, ranging from 800 to 1,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor space and offering outdoor showers as well as spectacular views of the Caribbean and surrounding pristine nature
  • A new landing craft afternoon service to Honeymoon Beach exclusive to overnight guests. The quick journey from Lovango to Honeymoon Beach lands guests on the white sand with champagne, beach chairs, personalized meals by their own chef, private yoga, massages and more
  • The introduction of the new Treetops Lounge providing spectacular views and a charming location for breakfast, afternoon cocktails, yoga and a gathering location to meet fellow overnight travelers
  • Lovango Village expands to include shopping, dining and exploring ranging from upscale to casual. New this season are the resort’s Lovango Social happening every Sunday with food, beach games and a DJ, open to day visitors; and the Sandbar will debut serving wood-fired flatbreads, gourmet bowls & signature cocktails

Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa - Rancho Santa Fe, California

Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa is Southern California’s only Relais & Châteaux property and has garnered a reputation as one of the West’s most sought-after five star resorts. A sanctuary of good living tucked away on 45 acres of lush gardens and olive groves, this Mediterranean-inspired, all-suite property near Del Mar, California offers 49 luxuriously-appointed, guest casitas with their own patios and fireplaces and 3 opulent private residences, all of which provide the perfect backdrop for your next weekend escape or extended family gathering. Situated across 45 acres of lush gardens and citrus groves, this Forbes 5-star rated Resort and Spa features rejuvenating wellness, fitness, and world-renowned tennis programming. The signature restaurant, The Pony Room, showcases Rancho Valencia’s commitment to fresh and sustainable culinary practice with its distinctive Coastal Ranch cuisine in an enchanting and delightful al fresco dining atmosphere.

Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac - Quebec City, Canada

Steeped in history, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is more than a hotel, it is an iconic castle that inspires visitors from all over the world. For more than a century, young and old, music and film stars, members of the royal families, heads of state and celebrities of all origins have enjoyed the beauty and French charm of the Château. In line with the Renaissance architecture of the hotel, the prestigious suites were designed with the ultimate care and craftsmanship, providing unparalleled grandeur, elegance and refinement.

The Château is the heart of Quebec City, located on the cliffs of Cap Diamant, and is the world’s most photographed hotel. A stay allows you to venture out into a European style walled city, built in the 1600, with hundreds of restaurants, museums, art galleries and boutiques. The hotel features world class dining in four restaurants, our full-service spa, a wellness center and over 700 passionate employees to take care of your every request. In any one of its 610 guestrooms and suites, including 10 Dream Suites, you will feel an elegant touch of historic Europe. Your experience at this landmark luxury hotel will guarantee you a memorable and inspiring stay in one of the most beautiful, and walkable, cities in the world.

The Ranch Italy at Palazzo Fiuggi - Fitness, Wellness & Health Retreat Programs

The Ranch Malibu brings its award-winning, transformational wellness program to a historic property, nestled in one of Italy’s richest naturalistic areas, just 50 minutes from Rome.   The Ranch Italy at Palazzo Fiuggi combines a results-oriented fitness program with the services and expertise of the esteemed team at this renowned medical wellness retreat. The result is an immersive and transformative program that gives guests a more complete picture of their overall health and longevity, departing with a greater sense of self, feeling rested and rejuvenated while losing weight and gaining muscle.

La Tartane St Tropez, a charming 5-star hotel designed like a Provencal village, is situated in the heart of St Tropez.  A fresh and gentle touch has been given by Jordane Arrivetz from Notoire Agency to this see side hotel, in the spirit of a family home. La Tartane is composed of 27 rooms and suites, as well as a large open-air restaurant and a swimming pool. 


Elkonin Hotel MGallery, in Tel Aviv designed by Adriana Schor. First ever hotel in the white city, it was imagined as a boutique hotel of 44 rooms, and was created in 1913 by Malka and Menahem Elkonin. The hotel is situated in the heart of the Old City, in Neve Tsedek neighborhood. Adriana Schor wished to preserve the architectural modeling typical of the eclectic style in vogue in Tel Aviv at the beginning of the 20th century. 

Capri, Italy: Peacefully nestled in Anacapri, the most authentic, exclusive and unspoiled part of the Blue Island, Capri Palace Jumeirah is the embodiment of Dolce Vita bathed in serene whites and rich blue hues. The hotel is home to the only two Michelin Starred restaurant on the island, L’Olivo, and celebrity hotspot Il Riccio Restaurant & Beach Club, an exclusive Dior pop-up which will soon unveil its new collection for the 2023 summer season, a medical spa, The White Museum (home to the hotel’s private modern art collection) with tributes to the works of Mirò, Magritte, Warhol and new works debuting this summer, a new high-end Japanese restaurant opening, and more.

Mallorca, Spain: It’s never been easier to get to Mallorca on United Airlines’ newly initiated non-stop service from Newark to Palma beginning on May 25. Jumeirah Port Soller, crowning the cliffs of Port de Sóller, balances between the Tramuntana Mountains and Mediterranean Sea. The 2023 season will welcome a new category of rooms with an expanded glass fronted terrace, a newly remodeled Sunset Lounge towering over the cliffside with panoramic ocean views beyond its glass balcony, Cap Roig Brasserie specializing and local seafood and partnering with local truffle farmers, new bespoke lobby sculptures by famed local artist Lolo Garner, and a spa program that centered on products using local ingredients such as citrus, almond and olives.

Hvar, CroatiaHvar, the sunniest island in Croatia, is filled with small historic cobblestone streets, vast fields of lavender, vineyards, over 100 biking routes to explore and a deep-rooted historic culture being the island with more UNESCO heritage sites than any other in the world. Hvar welcomes travelers with direct flights from NY to Dubrovnik via United beginning in late-May. Stay at the 5-star Palace Elisabeth, one of the most regal and storied hotels in Europe or the new sustainably-focused Beach Bay Hvar running on solar power. The island will welcome several more new hotels in 2023, including Villa Porta Maestra, where more than 100 pieces of archaeological artifacts were found and now boasts an on-site museum. The new Viticultural Museum reflects the robust wine culture on Hvar dating back to 4th century B.C.