Confidence and bookings for international travel is increasingly positive as the industry heads into 2022, according to a study by Not Just Travel. There was a 50% year-on-year increase in bookings from the post-Christmas period, a positive sign that travel is on the up. With that in mind, discover 22 destinations to inspire your 2022 bucket list.
For arts and culture enthusiasts
Contact High: A Visual History of Hip-Hop: Seattle, Washington
For an urban city break brimming with artistic delights, look no further than Seattle. The largest city in Washington, Seattle is home to the Museum of Pop Culture which pays homage to its legendary music scene, with permanent exhibits on bands that originated from the city, such as Nirvana and Pearl Jam. Throughout 2022, visitors can catch Contact High: A Visual History of Hip-Hop, an exhibition documenting hip-hop from the late 1970s to the present day. February 2022 is Seattle Museum Month, where guests staying at participating hotels can benefit from half price admission at 30+ museums and galleries, whilst October 2022 will see the return of Refract, a museum dedicated to the intricate medium of glass art. Exhibition price from £19. www.visitseattle.org
The Andy Warhol Museum: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh is the proud home of the Andy Warhol Museum, the largest museum dedicated to a single artist in North America. Pop art fans can learn about the Pittsburgh-born artist through exhibitions, displays and informative tours. Travellers with an interest in space will love the Moonshot Museum, set to launch in summer 2022. Pennsylvania’s first museum dedicated exclusively to space, the feature attraction will be a large window through which visitors can watch real lunar landers and rovers being built and readied to fly to the Moon. Museum entry tickets from £7 www.visitpittsburgh.com
The Setouchi Art Triennale, April – November 2022: Seto Inland Sea, Japan
Every three years, Japan’s Setouchi islands host a spectacular art festival that draws in visitors and artists from around the world. Spread among multiple islands, the eight-month (April – November) art fair offers a wealth of art and culture to discover. Visitors to the region will be charmed not only by the intriguing art but also the laid back, slow paced rural atmosphere of the islands’ villages and natural beauty. Advance ticket price from £24. www.japan.travel/en
Hauser & Wirth announcing its new space, Autumn 2022: West Hollywood, California
In Autumn 2022, International art gallery Hauser & Wirth will expand its Los Angeles presence with a second location opening in West Hollywood. The new venue will occupy the site of a vintage automobile sales showroom at 8980 Santa Monica Boulevard, with a white stucco façade and red tile roofing typifying the distinctive 1930s Spanish Colonial Revival style of Hollywood’s Golden Age. With vaulted wood truss ceilings and expansive windows onto the street, this new site will encourage a synergy between the gallery’s vigorous program and the bustling energy of the lively cafes, legendary music venues, and leading interior design and retail boutiques that make West Hollywood a famously vibrant and storied creative centre. www.visitwesthollywood.com
Whistler Pride and Ski Festival, January 23 – 30, 2022: Whistler, Canada
Whistler is proud to host the annual Whistler Pride and Ski Festival, celebrating its 29th year in 2022. One of the biggest and best gay and lesbian ski weeks in North America, the LGBTQI pride week features a packed schedule of skiing, snowboarding, parties, arts and culture and social events. During the week there will be daily Pride and Ski guided group tour opportunities where travellers can meet on the mountain and make new friends. Evening programming includes the Whistler Pride Welcome Reception, a night at Vallea Lumina, Spa-lash at the Scandinave Spa and the Whistler Pride Comedy Night. Pride packages from £1,080. www.whistler.com
Aspen Art Museum’s new retrospective on Warhol: Aspen Snowmass, Colorado
Aspen isn’t just home to some of the world’s best skiing – it’s also a cultural hotspot and this season the Aspen Art Museum is the sole US venue for a major international retrospective on the work of Andy Warhol. The newly opened Andy Warhol: Lifetimes (running until 27th March) breaks new ground by casting a queer eye on the artist as an outsider and disruptor, who remade America’s image to resonate with a queer sensibility. In collaboration with the Aspen Art Museum, The Powers Art Center in Carbondale is also running another exhibit featuring some of Warhol’s more celebrated works. “Warhol in Colorado, The Artist’s Relationship with John and Kimiko Powers,” will display until 30 April 2022, and features the complete portfolios of “Marilyn” and “Flowers”. Price: Museum entry and exhibitions are free www.aspensnowmass.com
For lovers of the outdoors
Hachinohe, Japan
Running along the coast of the Tohoku region is the Michinoku Coastal Trail, a path offering hikers a rocky shoreline, numerous bays, cliffs and coves stretching over 1,000 kilometres. As a result of the 2011 earthquake and tsunami disaster, tourism has been and still is vital to the recovery of the area. The region is visited by less than 3% of international travellers despite it being one of the biggest areas in Japan. Visitors can hike the Michinoku Coastal Trail and stay in guesthouses along the way, allowing visitors to experience local life for themselves. Return flights from London to Aomori from £682 return visa Lufthansa and ANA. www.visithachinohe.com
Yosemite Mariposa, California
Yosemite National Park, with its towering granite monoliths, sky-scraping ancient redwoods and spectacular cascading waterfalls, is an exhibition of natural wonder. Spending a few days in the midst of its majestic beauty, discovering the miles of walking trails and spectacular vistas on offer, is one of the best ways to soak up the magic of one of North America’s oldest national parks. AutoCamp Yosemite offers glamping in Airstream cabins and luxury platform tents. Spend the day exploring the landscape with a hike, snowshoe trek, or climbing experience—or take things easy with a book by the heated pool. Rooms from £121 per night. www.yosemite.com
Slovenia
There are few places in the world as beautiful and green as Slovenia. The country is continually recognised for its green credentials, so much so that it was named one of the top countries to visit this year in Lonely Planet’s ‘Best in Travel’ list. More than half of Slovenia is covered in forest and the landscape naturally lends itself to hiking holidays, wildlife watching, cycling and camping. Lovers of the outdoors who prefer the coast can head to Piran, a picturesque town known for its quiet beaches and Venetian architecture. Direct flights from London to Ljubljana start from £129 return. www.slovenia.info/en
Colorado, USA
Four National Parks can be visited in Colorado, each with their own unique appeal. Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most visited in the USA, where there’s dramatic landscapes and a wealth of wildlife to discover. Great Sand Dunes National Park is home to the tallest dunes in North America, offering plenty of opportunities for sandboarding. To the west, Mesa Verde National Park gives a glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people who once called Colorado home, and Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is the perfect spot for stargazers. Those who prefer a slower pace of life can admire Colorado’s incredible scenery aboard Rocky Mountaineer’s first USA service, Rockies to the Red Rocks, launching April 2022. The journey takes passengers from Denver to Moab in Utah, passing plenty of awe-inspiring landscapes on the way. Rockies to Red Rocks excursion from £2,972. www.colorado.com
For families of all ages
From Comic-con to Sesame Street theme parks: San Diego, California
San Diego has long been a popular destination for families, but next year the city becomes even more enticing with a host of new attraction openings. Following a first phase opening in November 2021, the much-anticipated Comic-Con Museum will fully open its doors in Balboa Park in July 2022, offering visitors the opportunity to connect with the magic of Comic-Con year-round. Museum-goers can expect rotating exhibits, an education centre, a 4K video theatre and a gift shop filled with comics, graphic novels, branded souvenirs and more. March 2022 will also see the opening of Sesame Place, a new Sesame Street theme and water park. Families will be able to enjoy seven Sesame Street-themed rides, an interactive musical play area and 11 water attractions including one of the largest wave pools in southern California. Comic-con museum entry tickets from $14. www.sandiego.org
Active learning Farm Trail in SLO CAL, California
SLO CAL’s Farm Trail guides visitors to local farms, ranches and food purveyors so they can learn about the creative experiences and produce that comes from California’s central coast. Perfect for families wanting to do some active learning around being resourceful in nature in a fun environment. From discovering handcrafted alpaca goods to mixing organic lavender essential oils, visitors can choose their agricultural adventure and experience all that sustainable SLO CAL has to offer through the Farm Trail. Crafted workshops, classes and demonstrations are conducted by FARMstead Ed at locations along the trail and include experiences such as learning beekeeping and seaweed foraging excursions. Prices: Download the guide for free here, many locations are free to visit. Workshop and classes vary. www.slocal.com
For the wellness seekers
Onsen galore: Kyushu, Japan
Known as Japan’s ‘Onsen Island’, Kyushu is a land formed by volcanoes and geothermal forces. There are onsen resorts suited for everyone, whether its rustic charm, historical retreats or modern luxury. For thousands of years, these mineral-rich waters have healed and soothed emperors, samurai and the multitudes. Visit Kurokawa Onsen, a charming and traditional town and popular hot spring resort for over 300 years. Tucked away in the misty Kuju mountain range, the area is also ideal for hiking. Price for a night at Kurokawa Onsen from £151. www.visit-kyushu.com/en
Relaxing farmhouse stays in Ronda: Costa del Sol
LA Organic is a traditional 19th century Andalusian Cortijo (farmhouse) in Ronda. It was restored by Stefano Robotti, architect and collaborator of Philippe Starck. The accommodation is set amongst olive trees, vineyards and lavender fields with views of the Serranía de Ronda and one of the best places to switch off and relax. The rooms have been designed for relaxation with minimalist details and stunning views of the mountains. In addition, the complex has a swimming pool set among olive trees and a large porch / terrace with beautiful views of the estate and the Sierra de Grazalema. Activities include yoga and meditation in the garden, and guests can pick vegetables from the organic garden for the chef to prepare. Cortijo LA Organic is the perfect place to organise a wellness weekend with girlfriends or a romantic getaway with views to one of the most beautiful places in Andalusia. Prices from: £100 per night. www.visitcostadelsol.com
Vale of Glamorgan’s Best Resort Spa – The Vale Spa: South Wales
The Vale Spa, located in the four-star Vale Resort, was named Wales’ Best Resort Spa for a couple of years in a row at the annual World Spa Awards and was also featured several times inside the Lonely Planet’s first Wellness Escapes guide, a global list of the best places to experience total wellbeing and relaxation. Offering guests 19 treatment rooms and five bespoke relaxation zones, including a ‘chill-out’ zone with leather sofas and magazines, a ‘float’ zone, with waterbeds and water feature, and ‘slumber’ zone, with low lighting and quilts. The resort’s spa and leisure facilities also include a 20-metre pool, whirlpool bath, steam room and sauna. Experiences start from £85 per person with overnight packages available. www.visitthevale.com
For those hidden gem lovers
Japan’s Three-star Road
Snaking through the centre of Japan, the Mitsuboshi-Kaido – or Three-star Road – cuts through some of Japan’s lesser-explored pockets. The road takes travellers between chaya houses, ancient castles and the homes of samurai warriors. Running between six cities, spread across four prefectures where mountain air mixes with hot-spring steam and dense forests cusp vibrant old towns, the Three-star Road is the perfect backdrop for a glimpse into authentic Japanese culture. Return flights from London to Komatsu from £675 via Lufthansa and ANA. https://www.mitsuboshi-kaidou.com/
Nuku Hiva Keikahanui Pearl Lodge: The Islands of Tahiti
The Marquesian islands are known as the most remote archipelago on the planet. More than 900 miles north-east of Tahiti, Nuku Hiva island is a mystical island hiding many natural wonders, such as the Hakaui waterfall, tiki statues and encounters with wild horses, goats and boars. Located on a hillside overlooking Taiohae Bay, Nuku Hiva Pearl Lodge is the only formal hotel on the Marquesian island of Nuku Hiva. Visitors can hike through the pineapple fields, tackle the surf, explore archaeological sites or simply relax on the black sand beaches. Prices from £230 per night. www.tahititourisme.uk/en-gb/ | www.nukuhivapearlodge.com/en/
For culinary enthusiasts
From fresh fish to succulent beef: Ishikawa, Japan
With rich pastures and abundant fishing grounds, Ishikawa is famous for its cuisine. Dine on fresh seafood, including snow crab and sea bream, or enjoy succulent wagyu beef. For a touch of luxury, request a dusting of Ishikawa’s famed gold leaf. Visitors can enjoy treats from ice cream to sushi with a golden touch. During the Edo period (1604-1867), present-day Ishikawa was part of the Kaga domain, the richest in all of Japan. The ruling Maeda family’s emphasis on hospitality, influenced by their devotion to the tea ceremony, led them to promote the area’s culinary culture. The family also encouraged the work of master artisans, whose dedication and skill influenced the region’s chefs. Return flights from London to Wajima from £671 via Lufthansa and ANA. www.ishikawatravel.jp/en
Groomed slopes and Fireside Dining at Deer Valley: Park City, Utah
A firm favourite ski resort with countless celebrities, there’s more to Deer Valley than just perfectly groomed slopes. Dining is an integral part of the Deer Valley experience and the resort has plenty of options to satisfy all taste buds. The Mariposa in Silver Lake Lodge is a popular spot, offering classic cuisine in a rustic yet elegant setting, but the resort’s stand-out food experience is Fireside Dining at Empire Canyon Lodge, where diners can enjoy Alpine favourites such as Swiss raclette and veal and wild mushroom stew. Those looking for an extra special evening can take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the resort prior to dining. Deer Valley Lift Tickets from £147 per day. www.deervalley.com
Farm-to-Fork Festival, 8-24 September: Sacramento, California
Sacramento’s free Farm-to-Fork Festival is designed to showcase and celebrate the local production of Sacramento’s food and drink, hosted on the city’s iconic Capitol Mall. Visitors will find food, wine and beer, as well as live music on a big stage, live cooking demonstrations and interactive booths from local grocers, farms and ranches. Each year the renowned Tower Bridge Dinner takes place, this is one of the nations most unforgettable dining experiences where hundreds gather to enjoy a locally sourced dinner prepared by some of the region’s – and the world’s – top chefs, served along Sacramento’s famed Tower Bridge. Free entry. www.visitsacramento.com
For the luxury seekers
Get the best of both worlds: soak up LA’s sun and ski down Mammoth mountain
Can’t decide what type of holiday to go on? Experience the best of California’s winter with an epic twin-centre holiday that combines the glam and glitz of West Hollywood with Mammoth Lakes’ legendary ski resort. Start by exploring LA’s most walkable city and soak up the Californian sun by the rooftop pool at the renowned Andaz hotel(one of the many brunch spots made famous by Selling Sunset), or with a hike in the Hollywood Hills. Then head straight to the slopes on an Advanced Air direct flight into the mountain town of Mammoth Lakes for a week skiing California’s highest peak (and home to the US ski team). Flyers with Advanced Air can enjoy the convenience of a private jet experience at commercial airline cost, and enjoy benefits such as flying from Burbank airport (just 20 minutes from West Hollywood), 30 minute pre-departure check in and skipping TSA checks.
Trailfinders package from £2,339pp (February departure), including rtn flights LON-LAX, 3 nights in the Andaz West Hollywood, 5 nights in the Westin Monache Mammoth and ski lift pass. Advance Air flights from £120 pp. www.visitmammoth.com / www.visitwesthollywood.com
Stanly Ranch in Napa Valley, California – opening March 2022
Stanly Ranch, the newest property from Auberge Resorts, sits on a 100-year history across a 700 acre working private ranch at the gateway to the Napa and Sonoma wine countries. Billed as farmhouse comfort meets progressive design, details of the 78 standalone cottages and suites include fire pits and outdoor showers. The resort has a number suites which will offer sweeping views of ranchlands and vineyards and are up to 2,928 square feet. The culinary programme will utilise its unique position as a one of a kind, working ranch to create sustainably sourced and seasonally driven menus and dining experiences. Activities will range from soaring over Napa’s vineyards in a vintage WWII aircraft (yes, really) and an evening under the stars with Bay Area’s most coveted milliner, to half days learning to drive like an F1 hero at Sonoma Raceway or shucking the day away in the oyster beds near Tomales Bay. It wouldn’t be California without a spa – Halehouse will offer next-generation wellbeing, state-of-the-art technology and access to world-class practitioners to help guests in the areas of nourishment, hydration, sleep, and movement. Price: From $899 / £673 ($1,098 / £822 incl. taxes and resort fees) www.visitcalifornia.com
