Top Destinations to Explore in 2022

Nantucket, Rhode Island
Credit: White Elephant Resorts

One of New England’s most historic and scenic destinations, Nantucket is dotted with pristine beaches along most of the island’s coastline. The entire area is teeming with lush greenery, immersive vistas, wildlife and quiet spots for picturesque strolls through its natural beauty. And for those looking to experience nature and modern amenities, there’s plenty of great shopping in the quaint downtown area, along with museums and breathtaking old-world architecture. You can relax at the Wauwinet Hotel or the White Elephant, get a taste of the local seafood, soak in the bay views, and so much more.

Santa Barbara
Credit: New York Times

Let’s get you ready for the American Riviera! This historic Spanish town boasts incredible views, beaches and mountain sports, along with world-class restaurants and plenty of wine-tasting opportunities. San Ysidro Ranch is a great choice for a romantic hideaway. This stunning property has a panoramic Pacific Ocean view with a casual elegance that emphasizes privacy and relaxation. John and Jackie Kennnedy loved it, and you will too. The refreshed Hotel Californian is another great stay with modern Moorish and Moroccan-style accents. The opulence may keep you inside — but, if you venture outdoors, you’ll find stunning beaches just footsteps away, as well as wine-tasting rooms, clubs, restaurants and more.

The Berkshires, MA
Credit: Wheatleigh Hotel

Chances are you’ve heard of The Berkshires, and for good reason — its lush vistas and evergreen woodlands are world-renowned. Visiting the Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum, catching a musical show at Tanglewood and hiking at the Pleasant Valley Sanctuary are just a few of so many enticing things to do. For a more relaxing option, check into the Blantyre, a refined gem sitting on 110 acres of beautiful Berkshire land. Enjoy pianist performances every evening in the music room, soak up the exclusive Dom Pérignon Champagne Salon, take a hot-air balloon ride, play a game of croquet or tennis in the summer, or take a twirl on the ice in the winter. Another great option is the Wheatleigh, an Italian-style resort known for its palazzo-inspired architecture and atmosphere. Indulge in locally sourced, seasonal cuisine at the exquisite on-site restaurant, The Portico by Jeffrey Thompson.

Santa Fe, NM
Credit: Inn of Five Graces

This eclectic city, one of the oldest in the U.S., boasts art as colorful as its cuisine and activities that will keep you entertained year-round. In the winter, grab your skis and boards and enjoy the 10,250-foot peaks that get an average snowfall of 225 inches every year. We recommend après-fun at the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe, described as an oasis of serenity, privacy and luxury. Or stay at the Inn of Five Graces, where you’ll see amazing decor curated and collected from around the world. Each room is an art piece all on its own.

Catskill Mountains, NY
Credit: Chatwal Lodge

With just 90 minutes of travel between the Catskills and New York City, you can start your rustic mountainside adventure sooner than you think. Take the scenic route to antique and art galleries at Woodstock, hike up the mountains to see sparkling waterfalls, or swim, fish and enjoy watersports in the crystal-clear lakes and ponds. Or, to experience the finer side of the Catskills, let us book your stay at the Piaule, a relaxing Japanese- and Scandinavian-inspired retreat that offers incredible sound baths, cold plunge pools, Thai yoga bodywork and more. If you’re looking for something a little more conventional, we recommend the Chatwal Lodge. This decadent five-star location offers privacy and luxury fit for royalty, with some of America’s most beautiful scenery as the backdrop.

Charleston, SC
Credit: The Vendue

Southern sophistication and old-world class are the cornerstone attributes of this charming city at the edge of the Atlantic. This city never comes up short when it comes to luxury — featuring architecture that sets a rich backdrop for its contemporary elegance. Exclusive hotels with modern luxury amenities are scattered across Charleston. Our favorite stays include The Vendue, Charleston’s premier art hotel; and the Harborview Inn, renowned for its timeless southern hospitality.

Cambodia
Credit: Shinta Mani Wild – Bensley Collection

Ancient culture and scenic beauty abound in the unforgettable country of Cambodia. Visit the Angkor Wat temples, indulge in the good eats at Phnom Penh and check out the jaw-dropping tropical beaches. You can also find some well-earned rest at the Shinta Mani Wild, where regal elegance meets comfort. This hotel aptly blends Cambodia’s natural beauty and traditions with modern American-style amenities. Your butler will be ready to meet any needs while you stay in your ​​Bedouin-style suites, featuring outdoor bathtubs and spectacular views on all sides of the Cambodian jungle. If you’re looking for a more opulent stay, the royal-built Amansara is a great option. Once a residence for King Sihanouk, this modern luxury hotel offers access to peaceful and immersive settings that live up to its name: “heavenly peace.”

Tanzania
Credit: Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti

The dry season is an excellent time to see wildlife in the grasslands of Tanzania. Explore Mt. Kilimanjaro, visit massive national parks, and take a safari to learn a few things about its rare species. A couple of our best stays include the Baraza Resort & Spa, Zanzibar’s most exclusive boutique resort; and the Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti. The Baraza’s stunning location successfully fuses Arabic, Swahili, and Indian design to offer unmatched standards of luxury in Zanzibar. It offers the best in beachfront elegance. The Four Seasons, located inside Serengeti National Park, offers the chance to become one with nature. It is the ideal luxury retreat with enthralling views and contemporary style.

Seychelles
Credit: Fregate Island Private

This small, romantic getaway off the east coast of Africa is actually an archipelago made up of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean. Its wonderland of flora and fauna with beautiful white beaches is perfect for a truly relaxing vacation. With an abundance of resorts, we’ve picked two of our favorites. As its name suggests, Fregate Island Private is a secluded private island paradise offering prime pampering and private dining with exclusive access to the island’s sea life. Raffles Praslin Seychelles earns its spot on our list as one of the best hotels on the islands. This five-star, idyllic getaway is located in an area aptly referred to as “the Garden of Eden.”

Nairobi, Kenya
Credit: Giraffe Manor

Also on the east coast of Africa is beautiful Kenya, which is much more than just a safari destination. Kenya also boasts clear waters and beautiful beaches, scenic hiking trails, great food, rich culture and a bustling nightlife. Visit Mt. Kenya, Africa’s second highest point, scuba dive in the Indian Ocean, or sail the Lamu Archipelago. Once you’re done with the adventurous activities, rest up at the exclusive Giraffe Manor, one of the most celebrated properties in the world with breathtaking views, fine dining and more. Oh, and did we mention the giraffes roam freely across the property? Another luxurious boutique stay is the Hemingways Nairobi, a modern colonial tranquil escape. Have a drink at the classic cocktail bar, enjoy a leisurely swim or visit the spa. Or, for a little more adventure, stroll through the 10-acre property to the world-famous Mbagathi River.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Credit: Forbes Travel Guide

Experience true luxury and get acquainted with unforgettable culture, all in one city. Beyond Amsterdam’s world-famous nightlife, experience amazing historic buildings, Venice-like interlocking canals and a diverse array of culinary eats. A stay at the Waldorf Astoria on the Canal Ring gives you VIP access to what was once Amsterdam’s grandest family mansion, the home to several influential families. Also on our list is the stylish Conservatorium, a stone’s throw away from the Van Gogh Museum. Enjoy state-of-the-art rooms, live performances by the Conservatorium van Amsterdam music school in the atrium, and take a dip in the Watsu pool.

Turks & Caicos
Credit: Forbes Travel Guide

Known for its exclusivity and seclusion, Turks & Caicos is the quintessential getaway. Slow down a bit and get ready to dip your toes into sparkling white sand and the shimmering blue waters of the Caribbean Sea. We recommend the glamorous Providenciales Island, where you’ll find the Amanyara, an ultra-luxury resort designed for ultimate relaxation. This Asian-inspired hotel offers discreet, minimalist silhouettes and a peaceful ambiance. We also love the Grace Bay Club, a prime luxury spot with 11 acres of pristine beach and a massive infinity pool.


As we mentioned before, these are just a few of the destinations that came to mind for travels in 2022. But, regardless of where you want to go, we can make it happen at Sydney Patterson Travel. Plus, the destination is just the beginning. We pride ourselves in those extra touches — VIP access to exclusive events, special upgrades to travel and accommodations, and activities specific to your stay. If you’re dreaming about it, let us make it happen.