Travel trends are getting wild, and 2024’s hottest one involves a little harmless lying. Okay, not a real lie, but rather embracing your inner alter ego for an unforgettable vacation.
Booking.com predicts over 60% of travelers will craft alter egos this year — think new personas, embellished stories, and unleashing your inner self.
Craving Carrie Bradshaw’s cosmopolitan adventures? Or maybe John Dutton’s rugged cowboy spirit calls to you? Ditch your everyday persona and channel your favorite iconic characters with these travel destinations tailor-made for unleashing your alter ego.
If Your Alter Ego is Carrie Bradshaw:
Travel to Cabo San Lucas’ hottest new resort, Corazón Cabo Resort and Spa! Live your version of the Sex and the City movie and escape to Baja’s sunny days and sparkling nights with your girls (sans heartbreak). Located in the heart of Cabo, Corazón treats travelers to a luxurious beachfront getaway with chic bedrooms with balconies and hot tubs as well as three infinity pools across the property. Girl gangs can indulge in endless cosmos and gossip sessions at Rooftop360, the city’s highest rooftop bar with 360-degree views of the famous Cabo Arch, party it up at the resort’s private beach club, and for when it’s time to relax, get a massage at the on-site spa or practice your poses with new AquaYoga classes – yes – floating yoga. We’re not sure if floating yoga is Carrie-approved, but Corazón has the girls’ trip written all over it.
If Your Alter Ego is The Little Mermaid:
Become part of their world in Bonaire. The Dutch Caribbean Island is known for its crystal clear waters and stunning underwater world filled with protected marine life and plenty of fish friends. Learn how to become a mermaid with a freediving lesson at Deep Sea Bonaire teaching everything from how to dolphin kick, swim with a monofin or tail, and practice your first mermaid tricks, strokes, and poses. The island also offers numerous snorkel tours and PADI discovery dives for beginner mermaids. There are over 85 dive sites scattered across the island boasting over 350 species of fish and 57 types of coral, open to divers of all skill levels (and safe for all mermaids). Once you are fully confident in your mermaid abilities, hop on a boat to Klein Bonaire (“Little Bonaire”), an uninhabited island just shy of a mile off Bonaire’s coast, and jump right in. Here, mermaids or mermen can spot angelfish, parrotfish, and sergeant majors hanging out by the reefs. Whether you’re a beginner or professional, Bonaire’s underwater worlds are waiting to be discovered (and your fish friends are excited to meet you)!
If Your Alter Ego is Jon Snow:
Travel to the Land of Fire & Ice. For the epic adventure of a lifetime, ditch regular old Reykjavík and head to Iceland’s adventure capital, Hella, home to Hotel Rangá, a whimsical boutique lodge that might as well be mini Winterfell. Upon entering, Hrammur, the hotel’s resident life-size polar bear greets you at check-in – not a direwolf, but it works. Adventurers can take a super jeep to climb a crystallized waterfall, ride Icelandic horses along a striking black sand beach, glide across a glacier on a snowmobile, or ride an ATV through a lava field, just to name a few. After a day of arctic adventures, warm up in one of the hotel’s geothermal outdoor hot tubs and if you’re lucky – catch the Aurora Borealis. When in season, Northern Lights chasers can take advantage of the hotel’s high-tech onsite observatory allowing guests to stargaze alongside a resident astronomer – we think Sam Tarly would be all over that. Guests can take their pick of GOT-style eats at Restaurant Rangá, like smoked puffin and reindeer carpaccio, the special wild game menu, or opt to have a three-course Icelandic Viking Feast in a nearby cave. Don’t forget your fur coat!
If Your Alter Ego is Jack Sparrow:
Sail down the overseas highway to Southernmost Beach Resort in Key West, Florida. Besides being a filming location for scenes from “Pirates of the Caribbean,” Key West has a storied history with piracy and wrecking that’s kept alive through museums and attractions, shipwreck and treasure tales, dive and snorkel trips, and sailing cruises. After a long day of treasure hunting in museums or bar hopping across the island, retire to serene oceanfront rooms fit for the captain at Southernmost Resort, enjoy the sound of waves crashing in a cabana on the private beach, or feast on seafood fare at the signature restaurant…or keep the adventure going with snorkeling and eco-tours. Near all of the action, but in a world of its own, this luxe oceanfront oasis will leave you longing to stay searching for some more treasure!
If Your Alter Ego is Phoebe Buffay:
Trade the concrete jungle for Puerto Vallarta’s actual jungle. The ultimate quirky optimist with a hippie flare deserves the getaway of their dreams right on the beach. The Westin Resort and Spa, Puerto Vallarta, a former palm tree farm turned wellness resort boasts two expansive pools lined with hundreds of palm trees, a private beach with endless chaise lounges, ample outdoor activities like a tennis court, walking trails, bike rentals and private seaside picnics in one of the friendliest cities in the world (just like New York, right?) Yogis after Phoebe’s heart is sure to enjoy the resort’s new wellness programming like seaside meditations and beachside yoga sessions. So, braid that hair, put on those flowy pants, bring your guitar, and enjoy ultimate relaxation – Friends optional!
If Your Alter Ego is Moana of Motunui:
Wayfind your way to Playa Largo Resort & Spa in Key Largo, Florida. Situated along 14 secluded beachfront acres of land and inspired by Key Largo’s lush tropical island surroundings, Playa Largo is an island paradise full of adventure for the whole family. Spend some quality family time together enjoying the property’s water activities, spa amenities, and beachfront pool, or stroll through the serene beaches to experience all this luxurious resort has to offer. Take on an adventure excursion by going snorkeling, paddleboarding, or kayaking in the beautiful waters of The Florida Keys. After a long day of fun-filled activities, unwind by the oceanfront pool or watch the tropical sunset views at any of the property’s kid-friendly coastal dining options. This family-fun resort is the perfect vacation to add to your list of upcoming trips for everyone to enjoy.
If Your Alter Ego is one of the Property Brothers:
Travel to a beautiful luxury resort on a remote island paradise…featured on HGTV! Caerula Mar Club is a boutique resort on The Bahamas’ sleepy island of South Andros and the island’s first-ever luxury property. Helmed by a couple of HGTV stars, Sarah and Bryan Baeumler of Renovation Island discovered the abandoned hotel while on vacation, purchased it, and then moved their family of six to the island to transform it into one of the Caribbean’s chicest new properties. Caerula Mar is home to five private villas and 18 gorgeous suites steps from the shoreline that exude barefoot luxury with open-concept living, Belgian linens, aged marble stone, and soft white oak floors. Guests will never have to leave the property with on-site dining ranging from an outdoor poolside bar with a wood-fired pizza oven to a fine dining restaurant with locally-sourced ingredients and daily new menus, a boutique spa, oceanfront pool, and best of all… a postcard-perfect location on 10 acres of pristine beach where you are unlikely to spot a single other footprint. While relaxation is key when visiting, there is also plenty of opportunity for exploration, including boating excursions, hiking trails, discovering underwater caves, and visiting The Bahamas’ mystical blue holes (fun fact: Andros is home to the most blue holes in the world!).
If Your Alter Ego is Mowgli:
Travel through the gorgeous jungles of the Dutch Caribbean island Saba. Tucked away in the Caribbean Sea, Saba is not even visible on most maps; but as the peak of a volcano that pokes out from the ocean below, it’s filled with outdoor adventures galore. The fun begins when traveling to Saba, as guests land on the shortest comment runway in the world (though the faint of heart can opt for a ferry instead!). Once on the island, visitors can immerse themselves in both above- and below-sea experiences — including 20 hiking trails (it takes a total of 48 hours to complete all of them… who’s up for the challenge?), bird-watching the island’s 100+ species, or heading out to sea with a local dive center to experience some of the most unique diving in the world, including the infamous site “The Needle”.
If Your Alter Ego is John Dutton:
Ride your horse into Jackson Hole, known as the “last of the Old West.” With the continued popularity of everyone’s favorite TV series, Yellowstone, the Wyoming town – nestled between the Teton and Gros Ventre mountain ranges – is the ideal destination for living out any Dutton family member fantasy. Set in the heart of this favorite year-round getaway known for its wide open spaces and western charm, The Rusty Parrot Lodge & Spa – which tragically burned down in 2019 – is reopening its doors as a completely reimagined rebuild in 2024. Located a short walk away from the bustling town square yet tucked just far enough away to enjoy the quiet bliss of the mountains, the new boutique lodge is a luxury oasis for travelers both near and far. The family-owned hotel gives the feel of the Dutton’s home, complete with stone fireplaces, antler chandeliers, and a winding staircase. Enjoy a meal at the acclaimed Wild Sage Restaurant, unwind at the spa, or share a fireside drink with new friends – Beth Dutton style. After picking up a cowboy hat and boots in town and a visit to (the other side of) Yellowstone Park, guests can retreat to the resurrected Rusty Parrot Lodge & Spa, a new hotel with an old soul.
If Your Alter Ego is Meredith Blake:
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city, leave the kids at home, and travel to Napa Valley for the weekend. Among the sprawling vineyards and rolling golden hills of California’s iconic wine country lies The Meritage Resort & Spa. At the resort, guests will find on-site tasting rooms, a private vineyard, elevated dining options, a locally sourced artisanal market, the relaxing Spa Terra nestled in a 22,000-square-foot Napa Estate Cave and adult-only full-service pool – which is conveniently Annie and Hallie proof. Visitors are invited to explore all of the lavish experiences the sun-drenched Napa Valley has to offer, from its sunrise hot air balloon rides and luxury shopping to wine tastings in castles and Michelin Star dining options.
If Your Alter Ego is Frances Mayes:
Make a quick escape to the stunning Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa, situated on the hill of an expansive 60-hectare estate in the heart of Italy’s most beloved region, Tuscany. Overlooking the mountainous Serchio Valley, one of the most unexplored areas of Italy, the Renaissance Tuscany will make guests feel like the star of their very own rom-com. Whether basking in the sun by the property’s opulent pool, cozying up with a book on your private balcony, or enjoying a delicious meal on the property, you’ll achieve serious main-character energy. But no rom-com is complete without an adventure, and the property’s ‘Chef For A Day’ experience is just the one! Guests can cook side by side with one of the resort’s chefs for an authentic taste of Italy. The experience begins with a trip to a local food market in Barga — a medieval village tucked deep in the Tuscan hills — where travelers will hand-pick fresh ingredients from the local markets and pick up some other staples from locally owned shops – all the inspiration for the day’s menu. After a tour of Barga and shopping, guests head back to the resort where they will learn how to hand-make Tuscan dishes such as fresh pasta (the shape of your choice), ravioli, fresh caprese salad, and sauces in a very hands-on, interactive cooking lesson. Once the hard work is done, indulge in a three-course meal on a veranda overlooking the picturesque Serchio Valley. With one visit to Renaissance Tuscany, and exploring all the quaint village of Barga has to offer, you too just may end up calling Tuscany your new home!
If Your Alter Ego is Indiana Jones:
Set your sights on the jewel of the Southern Caribbean, Curaçao. Tucked between glistening waters waits for an island that offers adventure at every turn, welcoming all level adventurers from first-time spelunkers to seasoned explorers. Hold on to your hat as you rappel down Queen Juliana Bridge, the tallest bridge in the Caribbean, towering 180 feet over the pastel Handelskade views, or chase down that adrenaline high by off-road ATVing through volcanic rock and rugged landscape, taking in the islands rich and varied landscape. Trade in the lasso for swim gear as you explore the island’s pristine waters; command the wind with kiteboarding lessons, become the hunter with spearfishing tours, or explore spellbinding underwater caves and abandoned shipwrecks. And when it’s time to toast to the day’s adventures, Willemstad, Curaçao’s capital and UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers endless ways for you to hang up your hat. Whether enjoying the trendy arts and gastronomy scene in Pietermaai or Scharloo or keeping it casual at the island’s food trucks known as Truk’i Pan, memories made on this unforgettable Dutch Caribbean island will be a treasure that lasts a lifetime.
If Your Alter Ego is Belly Conklin:
Make your way down to lower Cape Cod where the picturesque Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club serves as the ultimate summer spot. Nestled along the coast of Brewster, MA, the sprawling 429-acre resort is quintessential Cape Cod. Adorned with an opulent Mansion for luxury living, and charming 2-3 bedroom Villas, guests will find comfort in spades no matter which experience they choose. Guests are encouraged to live out their Cape Cod summer dreams with a game on one of the property’s nine tennis courts, or six pickleball courts, swimming at one of the five pools, a round at the area’s only Nickalus-design golf course, bike rides along the Cape Cod Rail Trail – which passes along the resort – and lounging at the private beach where sunset bonfires and smores await. A summer at Ocean Edge is a summer you will never, ever forget.
If Your Alter Ego is Katniss Everdeen:
Travel to Barnsley Resort, a sprawling 3,000-acre property nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Georgia. With a lush forest and numerous thrilling outdoor activities, you’ll feel right at home. The first step to embody Katniss Everdeen is, of course, archery lessons. The resort offers a class in the stunning Barnsley Farm with trained instructors providing safety and techniques. Or, expand your skill set with axe throwing and air rifles. If looking to put the arena life behind you and instead relax in the peaceful and safe setting of your surroundings, explore miles of hiking trails, horseback ride through the mountains, or simply rest up sitting fireside at one of the outdoor fire pits. As far as accommodations, the resort offers charming cottage-style cabins and a 55-room Inn to ensure you receive a calming slumber without the fear of falling out of a tree. In addition, unlike Katniss, sponsors are not necessary to receive meals as Barnsley Resort has three on-site restaurants to choose from ranging from fine dining at the recently refreshed 19th-century farmhouse-turned-restaurant, Rice House, to Southern comfort food at Woodlands Grill and al fresco dining at the Beer Garden. To learn more visit www.barnsleyresort.com.
If Your Alter Ego is Casey Jean Parker:
Slow-mo run down the beaches of Mexico at JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa. Just a hop, skip and a jump from most major cities along the eastern seaboard and southern U.S., Cancun lies at the heart of the Mexican Caribbean. Drawing inspiration from the ombre blue ocean waters and an excerpt from the Mayan book “Popol Vuh,” the rooms are anything ordinary with wood carvings designed to mimic ancient cross-stitching techniques, graphic aerial artwork, free-standing soaking tubs, rainfall showers, and ocean-facing balconies with photo-worthy views. Guests can grab a private beachfront cabana or Bali-style day bed to spend the day basking in the sun to the soothing sounds of the ocean, with a brunch basket and beer buckets. In the afternoon, they can take advantage of a Mayan-inspired 50-minute spa treatment, before retreating to the JW Lobby Bar to shake things up with its 150 Margaritas Menu. Influenced by the rich culture of Mexico, the menu features 150 different varieties of tequilas, including silver, reposado, and añejo varieties.
If Your Alter Ego is Tanya McQuoid:
Travel to the Garden Isle and be welcomed with warm weather and the traditional tunes of Hawaiian music when you walk into the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort. Tanya McQuoid took the island vacation as her way to seek inner peace and serendipity where she also spent time by the pool and enjoyed delicious dinners on the property. Guests can channel the White Lotus character at the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort by sunbathing at the zero-edge infinity pool with stunning ocean views and live Hawaiian music filling the warm air. It wouldn’t be Tanya McQuoid without a refreshing cocktail in hand. For the perfect poolside sip, walk a few steps over to Crooked Surf Beach Bar serving up drinks that your taste buds are sure to appreciate. Guests can also enjoy a high-end dinner experience fit for Tanya’s standards at Moa Moa, the resort’s upscale dining concept featuring fresh seafood and an elevated wine list. Complete your White Lotus-inspired getaway with the resort’s intimate luau, Luau Ka Hikina, which includes an impressive torch-lighting ceremony accompanied by hula kahiko (ancient hula) dances performed under the direction of the award-winning kumu hula (hula master), Leilani Rivera Low. Channel your alter ego and book today at sheratonkapaa.com
If Your Alter Ego is Barbie:
Get ready to party in South Florida’s signature playground at W Fort Lauderdale. Amidst the sun-soaked pampering and uninterrupted relaxation, the hotel is rolling out the pink carpet for guests that want a VIP Barbie-core experience with the newest poolside experience, Pink Paradise. Perfect for up to 10, the hotel has turned a section of WET Deck, the hotel’s chic rooftop pool, into a monochromatic oasis. Guests can splash out on the pink velvet couch or soak up the sun in lip chairs while enjoying decadent-themed cocktails and snapping IG-worthy pictures in the iconic Barbie Box. The add-on also includes a bottle of Whispering Angel Rosé, Pink E11EVEN Vodka, B&F credit, a dessert cart, Barbie-inspired necklaces, and a dedicated server for uninterrupted fun. Barbie-approved for celebrations, weddings, or ‘just because’, W Fort Lauderdale turns unforgettable memories into iconic polaroids.
If Your Alter Ego is Miranda Priestly:
Grab your stilettos and travel to D Maris Bay, a secluded and posh hideaway settled along the Turkish Riviera. Arrive in style to this celebrity hotspot just as Ms.Priestly would with a scenic 25-minute private helicopter ride from Dalaman airport to the hotel’s helipad. Spend your days lounging on one of the five private beaches or several indoor and outdoor pools, or choose from a wide array of water excursions including windsurfing, diving, catamaran sailing, and private yacht charters. The luxurious resort offers 159 modern rooms and suites that boast views worthy of the cover of Runway magazine with volcanic mountain ranges, neighboring Greek islands, and crystal clear waters. When hunger strikes, head to one of the world-renowned dining experiences on the property including Manos, Zuma, and Nusr-et, or sip on cocktails as the sun sets on the horizon at La Guérite, an acclaimed beach club known for its see-and-be-seen beach parties in Cannes and St Barths.
If Your Alter Ego is Tarzan:
Travel to The Caribbean island nation of St. Maarten where adventure awaits. To start the trip off with a bang and get a glimpse of all of the fun activities available on the island, visit Rockland Estate, which is home to the world’s steepest zipline: The Flying Dutchman. While zipping 2,800 feet down the mountain, picture yourself swinging through the trees like Tarzan while admiring the mountain-meets-ocean landscape full of adventure opportunities. On-land are 37 sundry, diverse beaches; while some are perfect for kitesurfing, sailing, and snorkeling, others are quiet and ideal for sunbathing. For underwater excursions, visit one of the seventeen dive sites — or experience the brand-new underwater sculpture museum – Under SXM. The attraction has over 300 artificial reef sculptures modeled after local moments and figures, from the work of renowned street artist Lily Hinckfoot to the Carnival scene featuring local icons such as King Beau Beau and DJ Outkast, located in a designated trail under the water in Little Bay. Want to island hop? This is the perfect place to cross some travel goals off your bucket list. Due to its central location, SXM is considered a Caribbean hub and home base for easy access to its neighboring islands. Take a 15-minute ferry to Anguilla, a 45-minute ferry to St. Barths, or a 90-minute ferry to Saba. These surrounding territories are great for a quick day trip and change of scenery to explore different islands and cultures all within close proximity.
