2024 Wrapped: Hotel Edition
My Year in Travel: Top Picks, Hidden Gems, and Unforgettable Moments
Phew! What a whirlwind year it’s been—10 countries, countless incredible hotels, and a lifetime of memories packed into 12 months.
From sipping aperitivos overlooking the Acropolis to planning magical weddings in Italy, this year’s travels have left me inspired, grateful, and dreaming of what’s next.
To make sense of it all, I’ve curated some “Best Of” lists to share the highlights, hidden gems, and unforgettable experiences from my travels.
These picks are based on the amazing places I personally visited in 2024—not an exhaustive, all-time ranking, but a collection of moments and properties that truly stood out.
Let’s dive in!
1. OUR FAVORITE HOTEL SPAS
(THESE HOTELS ARE ALSO IN amazing locations with views for days!)
Traveling can be exhausting, but these wellness retreats redefined what it means to relax and rejuvenate:
Forestis Dolomites (Italy)
Tucked away in the Dolomites, this eco-luxury haven delivered the best massage I’ve had all year. The serene spa, panoramic mountain views, and minimalist yet warm design create a wellness escape like no other.
Instagram @forestis.dolomitesFonteverde (Tuscany, Italy)
This historic thermal spa resort is like stepping into a dream. Between the healing waters and stunning Tuscan scenery, you’ll leave feeling completely refreshed.
Instagram @fonteverdeGrand Hotel Victoria (Lake Como, Italy)
A sophisticated blend of luxury and serenity, with a spa that is as elegant as it is restorative.
Instagram @grandhotelvictoriamenaggio
Forestis Dolomites (Italy)
2. OUR Family-Friendly Favorites
These hotels combine luxury with thoughtful touches that make them perfect for family getaways:
Chatham Bars Inn (Cape Cod, USA)
An all-American classic where generations come together. Think coastal charm, family-friendly activities, and unforgettable sunsets.
Instagram @chathambarsinnForte Village (Sardinia, Italy)
I was here for the Amour Conference, but it’s impossible not to notice the endless kid-friendly activities, from water parks to sports academies. It’s paradise for little ones and parents alike!
Instagram @fortevillageDouneside House (Scotland)
Nestled in the Highlands, this cozy retreat is perfect for active families who love the outdoors. The gardens, trails, and cozy fireside evenings create a perfect getaway.
Instagram @dounesidehouse
3. OUR FAVORITES FOR INCREDIBLE & Authentic Italian Dining Experiences
Food is an integral part of Italian culture, and these hotels provided meals I’ll never forget:
Villa Crespi (Lake Orta, Italy)
This was hands down the best dining experience I had this year. Chef Cannavacciuolo’s three-Michelin-starred restaurant is an absolute must for food lovers.
Instagram @villacrespiLAQUA by the Lake (Lake Orta, Italy)
Boutique charm, lakeside dining, and a culinary experience that truly honors the flavors of Italy.
Instagram @laqua.lakeVilla Arcadio (Lake Garda, Italy)
Imagine Tuscan warmth with the elegance of Lake Garda, paired with exceptional Italian cuisine. It’s also my best-kept secret of 2024 for gastronomy lovers.
Instagram @hotelvillaarcadio
la Crespi (Lake Orta, Italy)
4. TRULY OVER THE TOP Stunning Views
The kind of views that stop you in your tracks and stay with you forever:
The Dolli (Athens, Greece)
An aperitivo on the terrace overlooking the Acropolis? Bucket-list worthy. The view and vibe here are unmatched.
Instagram @thedolliacropolisGrand Hotel Tremezzo (Lake Como, Italy)
Lake Como’s beauty speaks for itself, but this hotel takes it to the next level with its iconic floating pool and lakeside vistas.
Instagram @ghtlakecomoSofitel Legend Old Cataract (Aswan, Egypt)
Overlooking the Nile and surrounded by the history of Aswan, this hotel offers views that feel like stepping into a storybook.
Instagram @sofitellegendoldcataract
Sofitel Legend Old Cataract (Aswan, Egypt)
5. OUR FAVORITE Romantic BOUTIQUE FINDS
These hotels set the stage for unforgettable moments with your special someone:
Villa Cordevigo (Lake Garda, Italy)
Tucked away in the countryside, this villa feels like your own private slice of heaven. Perfect for honeymooners or couples craving tranquility.
Instagram @villacordevigoLAQUA by the Lake (Lake Orta, Italy)
A boutique hotel with an intimate vibe, offering lakeside serenity that’s hard to beat.
Instagram @laqua.lakeVISTA Lago di Como (Lake Como, Italy)
Romance and Lake Como go hand-in-hand, and this hotel makes it even more magical.
Instagram @vistalagodicomo
LAQUA by the Lake (Lake Orta, Italy)
The Top List
Okay, if I had to choose my absolute favorite moments, here’s where I landed:
The best massage I HAD ALL year:
Forestis Dolomites
Instagram @forestis.dolomitesMost unforgettable family experienceS:
Chatham Bars Inn
Instagram @chathambarsinnBest dining experience IN ITALY:
Villa Crespi
Instagram @villacrespiMost impressive terrace FOR A DRINK WITH THE ACROPOLIS AT EYE-LEVEL:
The Dolli (Athens)
Instagram @thedolliacropolisFavorite “off-the-beaten-path” hotels for honeymooners:
Sofitel Legend Old Cataract
Best-kept ‘WEDDING VENUE secret ‘of 2024:
Villa Arcadio (Lake Garda)
Instagram @hotelvillaarcadioMost underrated gem on the Italian Riviera:
Grand Hotel Bristol
Instagram @grandhotelbristolOUR Favorite new properties in THE Orvieto AREA:
ITALIAN Hidden gems for those seeking tranquility:
Most STUNNING wedding venue IN FLORENCE:
Villa Cora
Time and time again, I’ll say it unapologetically - Villa Cora is my favorite hotel in Florence, forever and ever. I was so thrilled to return here for a wedding we planned this fall, and cannot wait to come back in future with more projects. LOVE this place!
Ok, so that’s a wrap on my year in travel, hotel edition!
If any of these caught your eye or you’re dreaming about your next adventure, let’s chat. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family trip, or an indulgent escape, I’d love to help you create your own “Best Of” moments.