While most countries proffer some level of lavishness in their hotels, sites and restaurants, there are others that take it above and beyond.
Whether your definition of a luxury vacation involves a private beach with no one for miles around or a stay in a historical abode with five-star service, WTM inspires you to pack your (designer) bags with three lush destinations to feed your soul.
BOGOTA, COLOMBIA
A perfect blend of colonial and cosmopolitan, Colombia’s vibrant capital is bursting with culture, character and lavish architecture.
Steeped in sophistication, it is a vacation paradise for those seeking contemporary comforts paired with delectable gastronomy and entertainment. Stroll through the Museo del Oro, which houses the world’s largest collection of gold artefacts, and Museo Botero, devoted to ingenious, full-bodied work. While the country’s grittier side sits in the south, the north is in stark contrast with luxurious boutique hotels and stylish eateries.
Cycle through the historic, cobbled town of La Candelaria and admire the majestic old buildings, museums, restaurants, churches, centuries-old residences and bars. Nearly all of Bogotá’s time-honoured attractions are here – radiating out from Plaza de Bolívar and the gorgeous Cerro de Monserrate.
As Bogota is nestled high up between the cool green hills of the Andes, it is also a haven for nature lovers with 400-acre parks and dramatic trekking paths.
DOURO VALLEY, PORTUGAL
This World Heritage Site dazzles with terraced vineyards and lush mountains swooping down the cerulean-blue Douro River. The steep, rocky gorges have been laboriously terraced by hardy farmers to make a horizontal home for almond and olive trees as well as grape vines. Come September, metallic gold and copper hues decorate the slopes, making for a breathtaking view. The best way to see the hilly landscape is by taking a tranquil river cruise. Experience the region’s flora and fauna by visiting the Parque Natural do Douro Internacional, which has hundreds of birds and animals in their natural habitat. History buffs can visit the Museu de Lamego, which is housed in a palace from the 1700s and features many eclectic pieces of art and tapestry.
There are plenty of vintage and modern hotels throughout the town of Lamego, along with elegant bars and restaurants.
BERMUDA
Besides gaining notoriety for the Bermuda Triangle disappearances, this island is also known for its magnificent travel offerings.
Located in an astoundingly beautiful stretch of the Atlantic, the island is a blend of colonial British history and African heritage. Here, you can be posh while still rocking those shorts. Play a round of golf on one of the most striking courses, hike scenic trails, visit ancient towns or sunbathe on glorious sand beaches. Bermuda is surrounded by extraordinary coral reefs that harbour multicoloured fish and have ensnared scores of shipwrecks, making for memorable diving and snorkelling at spots such as Elbow Beach. The seaside city of Hamilton offers great restaurants, shopping, thriving dance venues and high- class hotels.
