The Maldives (Photo by Sven Hansche)
THE MALDIVES
The Maldives is halfway across the globe, but it’s worth the schlep. I’ve been to 113 countries, and countless beach destinations, but no place on Earth compares to the Maldives; it didn’t get its reputation for nothing. You’re surrounded by a beautiful, calm, warm sea, where over 2,000 species of precious marine creatures live, including moray eels, turtles, stingrays, and dolphins. The sand is so soft and white, and the islands are so secluded, you feel peacefully removed from the rest of the world. I like to come here to decompress and realign, but also get my dose of luxury, from private butlers to overwater villas with their own swimming pools. The Maldives is quintessential tropical paradise, and a rare place on this planet that, unfortunately for all of us, may be one of the first to succumb to man-made climate change.
—Jimmy Im
Celebrating Pride in Mexico City (Photo by LatinFlyer.com)
MEXICO CITY, MEXICO
After I’m done visiting family, that I haven’t been able to see during the pandemic, Mexico City will be at the top of my must-go list. It’s one of the biggest cities in the world, and even though I’ve been there at least 20 times, I never get bored and always find something new to do. Mexico City has just about everything you could ask for in a major metropolis: beautiful architecture, diverse cuisine, great shopping, outstanding hotels and short-term apartment rentals, and a rich art scene with more museums than just about anywhere on earth. Mexico City is a rewarding place, where you can immerse yourself in centuries-old history and culture while also indulging in 21st-century sophistication and creativity. You can explore the gigantic pyramids of Teotihuacan by day, for example, and then attend live theater or savor the culinary prowess of an award-winning chef in the evening. Plus, it’s a progressive city, being the first in Latin America to legalize same-sex marriage. The annual Pride celebration is one of my favorite such events on the globe. I was supposed to attend this year and am disappointed that it won’t be possible, but rest assured Mexico City will be one of the first destinations I visit as soon as I can!
—Mark Chesnut
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North Island of New Zealand (Photo by Gregorioa)
NEW ZEALAND
New Zealand is the perfect vacation destination. If you’re in the mood for big city vibes, Auckland and Wellington offer tons of award-winning restaurants, live theater, and endless nightlife. If you’re looking for an outdoor escape, the Bay of Islands in the north, and Milford Sound in the south are adventure experiences you’ll never forget. When you fly into Auckland, stay there for a few nights to get a feel for the city. From there, venture out and explore the tropical northlands, or the rugged, mountainous South Island. You’ll be shocked at how many different ecosystems and landscapes all exist side-by-side in this small nation of just 4.9 million people.
—Keith Langston
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Fountain of Parc de la Ciutadella, in Barcelona ( Photo By Peresanz)
BARCELONA, SPAIN
My choice, hands down, is Barcelona. It’s one of those magical cities, where upon setting foot on her soil, I whisper to myself, I could live here. (In fact, I was supposed to be in Barcelona as I write this!) It’s the combination of climate and weather and the friendliest of people that make this capital of Catalonia so enticing. Not to mention a mind-blowing food scene, fantastical architecture, as well as superb collections of world-renowned art. Born in Barcelona are such artists and architects as: Antoni Guadí, Salvador Dalí, Joan Miró, Lluis Domènech i Montaner, and the extraordinary female painter, Lluïsa Vidal. And the city has something for everyone: a thriving beach community, sumptuous gardens, towering mountains, and inspiring cathedrals. I love that each neighborhood is unique and diverse, from the Barri Gòtic with its charming Gothic structures to the Born, which has been a haven for artists for ages, to the Eixample, which is a little more residential and home to many of the most iconic structures in the city. I miss you, Barcelona, but promise to visit as soon as I can.
—Arthur Wooten
Zurich (Photo by Samuel Borges Photography)
ZURICH, SWITZERLAND
My husband and I have been going to Zürich, Switzerland every year for the past 23 years. It has become a second home for us. We have fallen in love with the people, the natural beauty, the art and culture, and everything else this beautiful city by the lake has to offer. Our love affair with Zürich began at first sight and continues to this day. The Swiss hospitality and love of life is now part of our DNA. When we visit, we like to stay near the Old Town with its pedestrian only streets, eclectic array of international restaurants, and stimulating nightlife. For nature lovers, the Swiss Alps are a short train ride away, or you can walk out the door of your hotel and be at Lake Zürich in a few minutes. Here you can run, swim, bicycle, or simply relax and enjoy a bottle of Champagne or an al fresco meal with friends.
—Robert Adams
