Experts named the best luxury vacation ideas for 2024

If you haven't thought about it yet or just don't know where to start planning your vacation in 2024, it's best to pay attention to expert opinion.

Inspiring Travel experts have given their recommendations for the most profitable destinations this year. As specialists in creating individual experiences, they will make sure that any of them you choose is as personalized as possible for you, writes the Independent.

Head to the islands in the Caribbean

Aside from the more well-known islands like Barbados and Antigua, there's an idyllic world of more secluded havens, each with its own unique landscape, history and personality. From swimming in the sparkling waters of tranquil Bequia to gliding through the coral-encrusted waters of Tobago Bay.

So, which islands should you combine? It's good to look for contrasts so you can have two different experiences. Antigua and the British Virgin Islands are good for combining luxury and divine seafood. Barbados and St. Lucia are great when paired with the Grenadines, which has many private islands and secluded spots for a romantic escape.

Have a gourmet vacation in the city of San Sebastian

Steaming pans of paella, crispy patatas bravas, deep and heady red wines... Spain is nothing short of a gourmet's fantasy. However, it is sometimes overlooked in favor of other European gastronomic hotspots such as Italy and France.

For a fresh serving of authentic Spanish cuisine, head to San Sebastian in the Basque Country. This northern region is filled with culinary excellence, where you can dine on the unique local guild of pinxto (salted and pickled olives, peppers, and anchovies), washed down with a glass of Txokoli, a sparkling dry white wine produced in the region.

However, its main advantage for oenophiles is its close proximity to the famous Rioja region, where you will find the country's flagship red wine.

Immerse yourself in the ancient history of Greece

Greece is full of ancient monuments and myths from the mainland to the islands.

Perhaps one of the best places for history buffs is Athens. Although today it is a thriving modern metropolis, we must not forget that it is the historic capital of Europe and one of the oldest cities in the world, where Western democracy, art, science, and philosophy were born.

Discover the desert of Dubai

Dubai is known for its level of luxury. In the city center you will find Michelin-starred restaurants, private beach clubs and mega-malls at every turn. The highlight for many is the Burj Khalifa, which rises above the skyline as the tallest building in the world.

But, in addition to soaring skyscrapers and bright lights, you will find undulating desert dunes - the perfect contrast. In just a 45-minute drive, you'll swap skyscrapers for open horizons, romance, and adventure.

Escape to the mountains of Oman

Oman is rich in history and culture, with a rugged and dusty landscape that is ripe for exploration. The coast is lined with several charming sandy beaches, but turn inland and you'll find the rocky Hajar Mountains, the highest of which is the monumental Jebel Shams.

Admire Angkor Wat in Southeast Asia

Traveling through Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos is sure to impress you. From chaotic cities to bustling Mekong River banks and stunning UNESCO-listed beaches, every step of the way is steeped in history, culture and spirituality.

Seeing Angkor Wat is a highlight for many. It can be overcrowded, so careful planning with an expert is invaluable to see it at its best. However, there's more to the place than just the main temple, with a whole complex of smaller temples worth exploring, so you'll appreciate a few days to see them all. One of the best experiences is a boat ride at sunset on the quiet lake with Angkor Wat illuminated by the fading light.

Admire the autumn leaves in Japan

People often want to visit Japan to see the cherry blossoms. Although it is an incredible sight, it is one of the busiest times that requires serious advance planning, with no certain guarantee of seeing it. Instead of pinning your hopes on it, why not visit this country in the fall? This season still has the equally impressive natural beauty of burning leaves, with fewer crowds.

There are also many unique experiences outside of Tokyo. In Kyoto, you will see Fushimi Inari and can meet geishas. In Hiroshima, you can learn the history of the atomic bomb attack and see the famous Torii Gate. Food lovers should go to Dotonbori in Osaka to experience "kuidaroi" - a word that means "spoiling yourself with food".

Meet the Australian outback

Australia's nature and landscape are unlike anything else in the world. Travel to South Australia and Western Australia for outback safari adventures where you can see native animals from whale sharks to kookaburras, kangaroos, and koalas.

Some highlights that you can add to your itinerary include the Flinders Range, where you can admire the scorched peaks and see the endangered yellow-footed rock wallaby in the rugged outback. Kangaroo Island is also stunning; known as the "Galapagos of Australia", it has an incredible variety of wildlife. If you want to see the wonders of the sea, be sure to head to Ningaloo Reef. As beautiful as the Great Barrier Reef, Ningaloo is the world's largest marginal reef.