The wanderlust is real! Though the world at large seems to be stuck in limbo with countries updating travel restrictions and requirements at what feels like a near-daily basis, it doesn’t hurt to dream of days when oversees holidays are back on the table… right?
Here are the destinations we can’t wait to visit once the world opens up again – and the villas we want to check into first!
New Zealand
From the landscape to the culture, there really is nowhere like New Zealand. Though New Zealand has long been a travel bucket list staple, the country’s much lauded handling of the pandemic has only made it more attractive. Conde Nast Traveler also highlighted two destinations in New Zealand as must visit spots for 2021: Waiheke Island (picture below) for its beaches and vineyards and Hokianga for its rich Maori heritage. For those of us stuck in Australia, New Zealand feels particularly appealing – and at least somewhat realistic – thanks to ongoing talks of a Trans-Tasman travel bubble.
Checking in – Somewhere
The evocatively named Somewhere is the perfect place to retreat to with your nearest and dearest to enjoy New Zealand’s stunning landscape in five-star comfort. Located in the Bay of Islands, the six-bedroom villa exudes the relaxed elegance of a New England beach house. It’s easy to arrive in style and explore the area, as the villa features both a private jetty and your very own helipad. Guests also enjoy access to three private beaches. Yes, three.
Fiji
Paradise, here we come! From picture-perfect beaches to world-class snorkelling, dining, spa treatments and so much more, Fiji sure knows how to wow a traveller. The island nation has also been successful in its handling of the pandemic. At the time of writing, Fiji has officially recorded a total of 46 cases of Covid-19 and there are currently no active cases in the country. Pandemic aside, we’re dreaming of days spent snorkelling in those crystal clear waters, followed by evenings lounging on the patio – or perhaps soaking in a private pool or Jacuzzi – while gazing out at stunning tropical sunset. Consider it the perfect tonic for the year that was 2020.
Checking in – Kokomo Private Island
Kokomo Private Island is nothing short of an an island paradise. Surrounded by a pristine reef, this exclusive islet is home to luxurious beachfront villas – but have our heart set on their exclusive luxury residences which offer an added sense of privacy in some of the most beautiful (and remote) corners of the island. The crowning jewel is the six-bedroom Kokomo Sunset which at 1,500 square metres is the largest residence in Fiji.
Maldives
With its stunning white sand beaches, turquoise waters and blissful six-star luxury, the Maldivian islands are never far from our minds. As an added perk, as the Maldives Tourism Board points out, both the 1,190 islands and the resorts – not to mention the standalone villas – are naturally isolated from each other, making this a very alluring post-pandemic destination indeed. Remote Maldives is also one of the few destinations that has remained open for tourism – boarders have been open for all nationalities since July 2020. Robinson Crusoe-ing in our own private villa in paradise with not a soul in sight seems more than ideal.
Checking in – Amaya Kuda Rah
Amay Kuda Rah is a piece of all-inclusive paradise right here on Earth. Occupying its own private island surrounded by endless blue ocean, the resort features private pool villas built both on the island and directly over the turquoise lagoon. A stay here includes everything from gourmet meals to fun-filled activities around the island. This level of A-list treatment is perfect for that not-lifting-a-finger holiday we’re all so starved for after 2020. Until it’s time to travel again, we’ll just reminisce on our last stay at this island paradise.
Vietnam
Vietnam was already heavy on our travel radar long before Covid-19 brought all travel plans to a screeching halt. And as they say, distance makes the heart grow fonder – and the country’s impressive handling of the Coronavirus outbreak has also definitely worked in its favour. Vietnam offers so much for travellers, from the big city buzz of Hanoi to the postcard-ready vistas of Halong Bay – not to mention the “undiscovered” islands dotted along the coastline. If you need even more convincing, Southern Vietnam was also selected as one of Conde Nast Traveler’s 21 Best Places to Go in 2021.
Checking in – L’Alya Ninh Van Bay
L’Alya Ninh Van Bay is a true hidden paradise. This stunning villa resort is positioned on a sandy beach overlooking Ninh Van Bay on the southwestern coastline. Guests arrive with private boat transfers and from here on out, it’s five-star luxury all the way. Each of the beautifully designed private pool villas is stunning its design and offer an utmost level of privacy perfect for the post-pandemic era: each standalone villa is discreetly tucked along the lush hillside and directly by the beach.
Niseko
Niseko, the Aspen of Asia – and our favourite ski destination in the whole wide world. During our annual visits to this powder paradise, we have fallen head over heels for Niseko’s unique mix cosy ski town vibes, luxe ski resort influences and pristine Hokkaido scenery. We can’t wait to return and see all the new properties that have sprung up in the area – from international hotel chains to exclusive private chalets, Niseko is definitely having a moment. Read more about all the reasons we’re missing Niseko.
Checking in – Panorama Niseko
Panorama Niseko is a beautiful collection of private, stand-alone chalets built on the bank of Shiribetsu river, offering stunning views of the majestic Mount Yotei. Each beautifully curated chalet is decorated using original artworks by local Hokkaido artist. The ultimate treat are the two natural onsen hot spring baths in each chalet – a soak in one of these after a day spent on the slopes is pure bliss. Our stay at Panorama Niseko is still one of our all-time Niseko highlights.
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