Where to Go in 2014?

Costa Rica

As one of the top 10 destinations on the rise, Costa Rica is the perfect destination for a sweet escape in 2014. 'Pura Vida,' an expression symbolizing the idea of simply enjoying life, characterizes modern Costa Rican culture, and visitors from around the world have taken notice. The soon-to-open Andaz Peninsula Papagayo, the brand's first hotel in Latin America, embodies the 'Pura Vida' way of life to the fullest. As a pioneer in experiential tourism, its unique Cultural Insider Program grants guests access to the best locally inspired surf, music, art and style, curated by an exclusive group of influencers, including Faherty Brand, Soludos, Jared Deitch, Salvador Odrec and more. Andaz Peninsula Papagayo is also close to some of Costa Rica's best surf spots on the northwest Pacific coast and its new Witches Rock package provides guests with everything they need to hit the waves in style. From a full day excursion to nearby Witches Rock National Park to personalized Andaz and Faherty Brand surfboard accessories and a professional photographer on hand to document the adventure, the Witches Rock package offers visitors a chance to truly indulge in the ultimate Costa Rican 'Pura Vida' experience.

Panama

2014 will see an influx to this Central American gem as travelers celebrate the 100th anniversary of one of the century’s most monumental engineering feats, the Panama Canal. Considered one of the Wonders of the Modern World, this manmade passageway linking the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans changed the history of shipping and trade forever. This marvel is best experienced with a cruise or private guided tour of its legendary locks, bookended with jungle safaris, beach time, aboriginal encounters and more. Kensington Tours is even offering a special Panama tour for history buffs looking to herald the centennial of this important waterway.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Sport fanatics will be uniting in the lively country of Brazil for the July 2014 FIFA World Cup. The entire country will be celebrating the return of the iconic sporting event sixty-four years after first hosting in 1950. Fans will be sporting their team's colors and cheering on their favorite players as the World Cup tours through 12 different host cities in Brazil. The seven competitive matches in the historical and beautiful city of Rio de Janeiro will be filled with contagious excitement as over 76,000 fans join together to root for the world's top teams rival for a spot in the finals at Estádio do Maracanã. For devoted fans that are looking for luxurious accommodations and want to join the spirited revelers at Copacabana Beach, reserve accommodations at the iconic Copacabana Palace.

Cape Town, South Africa

Travelers with a flair for design shouldn't wait another minute to book plane tickets to Cape Town. Kicking off in January, Cape Town will play host to World Design Capital 2014, which will form part of a broader vision to transform the vibrant city, through design, into a sustainable, productive African city. As World Design Capital, Cape Town will host creative communities throughout the year and get involved as exhibitors, speakers, delegates, partners and suppliers. In addition, a myriad of inspiring events for all citizens to experience will take place. Those looking to experience an iconic and historical hotel, where beloved leader and philanthropist Nelson Mandela once held meetings, should book at Mount Nelson Hotel in the heart of the city.

Switzerland

Celebrated as a Top Emerging Global Destinations in 2014, Switzerland is an ideal destination for the adventurous traveler with a taste for luxury. Whether an advanced skier looking to hit the slopes or an avid globetrotter hoping to find unique adventure amongst the country's beautiful surroundings, travelers are flocking to Switzerland as one of the world's 'hidden gems.' The just recently opened InterContinental Davos is striking, sitting more than 5,000 feet above sea level amongst the country's Graubünden Alps and offers guests an incredible view of the expansive mountains and valleys surrounding the property. A warm Chalet feel is reflected in the interiors, underlined by high-tech amenities, creating an atmosphere of quiet elegance, privacy and comfort. InterContinental Davos strives to cater to the needs of any and all types of visitors from the thrill of the downhill plunge to finding Namaste at the hotel's spa.

Russia

This February, it’s all about Sochi for the 2014 Winter Olympics, officially the XXII Olympic Winter Games. Sport revelers can get excited about cheering on their countries while watching bobsledding, speed skating, ice hockey, figure skating, skiing and more. Travelers looking to explore other major cities in Russia should definitely make a stop in St. Petersburg, where Grand Hotel Europe is located in the heart of the city. Many of the city’s main attractions are just a short distance away from the hotel, including the Russian Museum, the Philharmonic Society and the Mikhailovsky Theatre -- one of the most famous ballet companies in the world.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

With new flight routes to Dubai added on much more than a regular basis, it is becoming ever easier for travelers to visit this desert city, which boasts glitz and glamour set to rival New York itself. Dubai is not known for doing things in moderation - from soaring skyscrapers to VVIP experiences available at every turn, the city is set to attract well-heeled travelers, one packed first-class cabin at a time. The recently-opened Oberoi, Dubai is already making a splash among the luxury hospitality options, taking the destination's luxury offerings to even greater heights. With a 24-hour spa, personal butler service, and floor-to-ceiling windows in every room, the city's lights never shone brighter.

Bhutan

With travelers constantly seeking out the next destination far from the beaten path, 2014 is set to herald in a surge of interest for one of the last seemingly untouched destinations in the world - The Kingdom of Bhutan. Nestled amidst the rugged Himalayas, the country prides itself on an unwavering commitment to eco-conservation and a dedication to the wellbeing of its people. Indeed, rather than measure national development on GDP, the country uses complex algorithms to determine the GNH - or Gross National Happiness - of its citizens. The perfect escape for travelers looking to recharge and experience unique spiritual fulfillment, luxury tour operator Kensington Tours offers a fully-customizable Bhutan Exclusive itinerary that takes travelers through the country's secluded spiritual meccas with the aid of an experienced local guide.

Hong Kong, China

Hong Kong has long been a world capital of commerce and business but 2014 sees the destination continuing to emerge as a world-class tourist and foodie destination. With the additional direct service from Newark to Hong Kong on Cathay Pacific launching March 2, 2014, there has hardly been a better time to explore the Pearl of the Orient. The InterContinental Hotel Hong Kong is renowned for its timeless splendor and dramatic location on the Kowloon waterfront, ideally located near business, entertainment and shopping districts. The hotel is also home to the Michelin starred Yan Toh Heen restaurant, the perfect spot to take in spectacular harbor views while enjoying exquisite Cantonese cuisine and a modern, elegant ambience.

Sydney, Australia

Vivid Sydney returns for its 6th year from May 29 to June 9, 2014 and promises to be bigger and better than ever! Discerning travelers will want to visit Sydney to experience this 18-day festival firsthand. Recognized as the world’s largest light, music and idea festival in the Southern Hemisphere, Vivid Sydney will transform the destination into a spectacular canvas after dark. Musical talents, both local and global, will entertain thousands of participants from one of the world’s most famous stages – the Sydney Opera House, while the Sydney Harbor Bridge will serve as the festival's centerpiece boasting a dazzling interactive light installation. When flying to Australia, travelers should take to the skies with the country's national carrier Qantas Airways. Renowned for its exceptional Neil Perry cuisine, award-winning wine selection, Marc Newson-designed seats and 200 hours of on-demand in-flight entertainment via Q-Streaming, travelers can begin their journey to world-class entertainment onboard the Flying Kangaroo.

Los Angeles, California

The Broad Museum

Los Angeles, recognized as the entertainment capital of the world, is also one of the world's premier destinations for arts and culture. By late 2014, The Broad Museum will join LA's list of world famous attractions including the stunning Getty Center in Brentwood, the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art on Museum Row, where Angelenos and museum enthusiasts across the globe will be able to enjoy the new $140 million contemporary art institution free of charge. Located in Los Angeles’ burgeoning Downtown, it will house nearly 2,000 pieces from The Broad Art Foundation and the Broads' personal collections, which are among the most prominent holds on postwar and contemporary art worldwide. Additionally, monthly art walks take place throughout the city, including popular events in Downtown LA and Venice Beach. For more information on Los Angeles' thriving arts and culture scene, visit www.discoverlosangeles.com