Tropical destinations for an ideal holiday getaway
Jumpstart your winter holiday planning — balmy climes, palm-fringed beaches and azure waters await.
By Tanvi Chheda | September 4, 2024
The early bird catches the worm, which means now is the time to book a winter holiday warm-weather getaway. From the stunning Seychelles and the islets of Anguilla to peaceful Punta Mita, these top tropical destinations are sure to be the perfect antidote to winter’s chill.
Seychelles
This 115-island archipelago is well known for its pristine beaches, impossibly crystal-clear waters and sherbert-hued sunsets. A quick 25-minute flight from the main island of Mahé is the 143-acre (58-hectare) Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island. The only occupant of this tiny island is the resort, and its neighbors are the spinner dolphins and green sea turtles in the nearby coral reef and lagoon. Settle into a breezy oceanfront villa, complete with a private plunge pool and outdoor shower, before exploring the lush surroundings. From scuba diving and fly fishing to private cooking classes and stargazing, the hotel concierge can curate a variety of exclusive guest experiences. The sumptuous Waldorf Astoria Spa shouldn’t be missed either, especially with its hammam and personalized wellness programming.
Anguilla, West Indies
Anguilla is an idyllic Caribbean island that welcomes the most discerning travelers to experience its 33 white-sand beaches. On the north shore, Zemi Beach House, LXR Hotels & Resorts is among few properties at Shoal Bay, an area touted as one of Anguilla’s top beaches and snorkeling spots. Your concierge can arrange many ways for you to explore, from kayaking to a privately guided horseback ride along the powdery sand. When it’s time to unwind, the resort’s Thai House Spa is a relaxing treat, while the adult-only infinity pool is another great choice. The specialty restaurants at Zemi Beach House exemplify why Anguilla is the culinary capital of the Caribbean, while rum lovers must indulge in a tasting of specialty spirits at Rhum Room.
Punta de Mita, Mexico
A verdant 1,500-acre (607 hectares) peninsula along the Riviera Nayarit, Punta de Mita is synonymous with posh resorts, manicured golf courses and fine dining, as well as everyone’s favorite water activities. Dependably blue skies, tree-studded mountains, palm-lined beaches and hidden coves are the backdrop to the refined Conrad Punta de Mita, where you can listen to the waves from your suite or residence’s private balcony and plunge pool. For an especially magical trip, plan a visit during whale-watching season (December to March) and have the concierge arrange a private charter to see the humpbacks up close. Return in time for a private chef-led beachside dining experience, an agave spirit tasting, with a 200-bottle collection to choose from at The Agave Studio, or dinner at award-winning Codex, which draws cues from Aztec ingredients and cooking.
Tanvi Chheda
Formerly an assistant editor at Travel + Leisure, Los Angeles-based Tanvi Chheda has been freelancing for 15 years now. She writes mostly about lifestyle and travel, which often spills into arts & culture, food, design and more. With two young children, family travel is also a passion of hers. Given her South Asian heritage, she writes about India quite frequently as well (she was born in India and speaks three Indian languages). When not traveling or writing, she enjoys reading, cooking and spending time outdoors. Her work has appeared in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, AFAR, Virtuoso Life Four Seasons magazine, Qantas, Inspirato, Invited, Pasadena magazine, OLTRE and Ciao Bambino, among others.
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