Going on vacation is good for your soul; there is no doubt about it. Every year we eagerly await those precious days where we get to take time off work and spend it with our loved ones, getting to know new and exotic places or simply rewinding and relaxing. Yet besides the proverbial trip to the country or the umpteenth hiking excursion, you sometimes find yourself yearning for a bit of glamor; if that is the case, here are the top five most glamorous destinations worldwide – just the perfect idea for that anniversary trip that has been in the works for years.
St. Barts, Caribbean
Right at the northeastern end of the Caribbean, St. Barts is located conveniently close yet its heart beats in French: in 2003 the island decided to secede from Guadeloupe and become a separate overseas collectivity of France. Named in true French colonial fashion after Saint Bartholomew, this volcanic rock that stretches over eight square miles is home to less than 10,000 people and is a tremendously popular destination for the rich and the famous – especially during winter time, when its tropical climate makes it a far nicer place to spend Christmas. Its culture, music and cuisine are a melting pot of French, Caribbean, West Indian and Creole influences.
Why visit? Celebrate New Year’s on one of the 22 golden sand beach with a tropical cocktail in hand – and do some last minute tax-free shopping in Gustavia for Christmas gifts to bring back to friends and family.
Goldeneye Resort, Jamaica
It really cannot get any more glamorous than the birthplace of James Bond, the celebrated fictional British spy that always manages to save the day with style, drinking his Martini – shaken, not stirred – in his tuxedo. The brainchild of author Ian Fleming, who wrote all 14 James Bond novels here in his private estate, has given the name to this resort: Goldeneye was one of his most iconic opponents. The Fleming estate has been turned into a resort that ranges over 52 acres and includes stunning private beaches, exotic tropical forests and a breathtaking seawater lagoon.
Why visit? After spending the day in the sea, swimming in one of the gorgeous secret coves near the resort, treat yourself to a refreshing, open-in-the-air spa session.
Monaco, Europe
This tiny city-state finds itself squeezed right between France and the famous Cote d’Azur of the French Riviera – and just 5 miles away from the western border of Italy. A paradise for the rich – Monaco’s residents pay zero taxes – it is also the perfect spot to get a taste of that decadent lifestyle for the rest of us, more humble tourists. Monaco is notably home to Monte Carlo, where gamblers and tourists rub shoulders in a round of roulette, the iconic casino game that became synonymous with the glitz and lustre of Monte Carlo. The red and black colors of the wheel (roulette in French literally means little wheel) along with the little ball hopping between the 37 pockets have become a symbol of style and leisure in pop culture and are one of the main attractions in Monaco.
Why visit? Try your luck in a game of roulette in the Monte Carlo Casino before heading out to watch the annual Formula 1 Grand Prix, held yearly in May since 1929.
Telluride, Colorado
If you find you have had enough of the sunny weather and the tropical warmth, you can always head over to Telluride, renowned for its ski resorts and town of the winter sports. This once-upon-a-time Gold Rush town now attracts ski enthusiasts from all over the globe for its magnificent scenery, its sunshine that persists for well over 300 days a year, and the breathtaking Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado’s very own longest free falling waterfalls. Telluride boasts of more than 800 acres of skiing terrain, and you can always try a snowbike or snowmobile tour if you are looking for something different.
Why visit? For more outdoor activities, try sledding at Firecracker Hill and have a blast!
Gstaad, Switzerland
The Swiss chalet village of Gstaad has become famous as a winter resort for the international jet-set – but do not worry, it still has a budget-friendly side if you do your research; for example, you could try for accommodation in one of the neighbouring, less costly villages. Gstaad is as renowed for its skiing terrain as much as for being an après-ski and culinary heaven. Make sure to visit in January, when you can catch the International Balloon Festival in Châteux-d’Oex: around 100 hot-air Alpine balloons of all shapes and colors fill the sky, creating a stunning image.
Why visit? If you grow tired of the celebrity life, try a day trip at the idyllic mountain Lake Lauenen or hop on the “Golden Pass” panorama railway.