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Let’s turn the tables for a hot second. I’ve been helping you plan your dream trips for the last two years, so it’s about time you return the favor. 10 Days. 1 Girl. No Plan…. Here are my Top 5 options for a quick cross-continent hop. Take your pick.
Bali.
My thoughts: I’ve never been before, but will I get bored?
Serious hotel lovers across Asia think of this intimate refuge, in the shadow of holy Mount Agung, as a kind of secret handshake. Designed by Kerry Hill of Aman Resorts fame, two thatch-roofed Balinese wantilans (meeting hall–style buildings) house 55 sleek but homey guestrooms, all with bijou balconies or patios overlooking coconut groves and the Indian Ocean.
India.
My thoughts: It’s my favorite place on earth, but should I go somewhere I’ve never been before?
It’s easy to imagine yourself a maharaja or maharani when you stay at this elegant modern version of a Rajasthan palace. Overlooking the 14th century Lake Pichola in the fairytale city of Udaipur, it has to be one of the most romantic settings in India. Turrets, domes, elegant archways and expansive courtyards dot the 30 acres of manicured grounds, and the views of the famed lake — known for its two floating marble palaces in the center — add to the intoxicating mix of history and romance.
Morocco.
My thoughts: Is it cold? Is it safe solo? It certainly wins for foodie appeal…
Escape the commotion and chaos of downtown Marrakech at this chill hotel in a palm grove overlooking the golf course’s lake. You’ll see dates falling from the trees and the snowcapped Atlas Mountains looming in the distance as you walk through the manicured gardens en route to the spa or the on-site French restaurant. But at the end of the (bright, sunny) day, this 44-suite property is all about teeing off at the prestigious Palmeraie Golf Club nearby.
Hawaii.
My thoughts: Too much of a honeymoon aka too tame?
The Modern Honolulu is a midcentury Waikiki hotel completely re-imagined as an urban resort. The hotel has a new name and new Honolulu-based management team, but still rocks Ian Schrager’s mod take on surf culture, Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s Japanese fusion culinary creations and three sceney bars (two of which are open-air, to make the most of the ocean breeze).
Abu Dhabi.
My thoughts: My not be the safest solo but hey, let’s go for the gold?
Sand dunes, camels and breathtaking sunsets are all part of the decor at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. A two-hour drive deep into the Liwa Desert from Abu Dhabi, the resort has the secluded feel of a desert oasis, and the decadent extras of an Anantara property. Soak in the scenery from a private plunge pool or relax with a Thai massage — this retreat is all about doing nothing and experiencing everything.
Thoughts?
