Miami

As 2016 draws to a close, there’s no better time of year for indulging in a little nostalgia. December is known for many things, but its the annual “best of” lists that make the month so enjoyable. It was a year in which some lesser known gems finally received widespread acclaim, while a smattering of old favorites came roaring back into vogue. Herein, 11 of 2016’s hottest vacation destinations, and some of the hotels that helped make them special.

No matter how low the bar is set, having zero expectations for New Year’s Eve is a near-impossible feat. But, good news, science (more like personal trial-and-error) has concluded that the greatest equation for NYE happiness is to get out of town, because going somewhere new is innately exciting. Now, where to go? Easy, herein, seven atypical experiences to celebrate another calendar year.

As the northern hemisphere trudges toward winter, thoughts invariably turn toward escapism. There are those who embrace the cold season and head for the ski slopes, and there are those who’d rather sweat it out on a sandy beach. For the latter category, 11 hotels for achieving warm winter getaway goals.

Anyone who’s traveled with children can attest: if the kids aren’t having fun, no one’s having fun. Also, securing a little parental quiet time on a family vacation is often the difference between coming home rested, and coming home in need of another getaway. Kids’ clubs achieve both aims. Luckily, these clubs are now ubiquitous, so finding a suitably impressive one is easier than ever. Read on as we take a look at some of the more spectacular options out there.

There are 84 million acres of protected national parkland in the U.S., and this year the National Park Service (they take care of it all) celebrates its Centennial. April 16 to 24, 2016 makes it even more enticing to visit one of the 400 parks with free admission. To narrow down the choices, here are six picks across the country with corresponding plush accommodation for those who don’t care to camp.

Spring is a time for renewal, for blowing the cobwebs off and emerging into the year ahead with a renewed focus. For many people, a wellness retreat is a central part of the strategy, but the trick is to find the right fit. As hotel spas can come in all shapes and sizes, we’ve provided some inspiration with ten of our favorites from around the globe.

Sun and water—be it ocean or pool—makes the quintessential Spring Break combo. Whether it’s Southern California, Florida or another warm weather staple, a week spent drinking cocktails and rubbing shoulders with beautiful people is the perfect tonic for the winter blues. Covering all the old favorites, we line up nine choice destination hotels for Spring Break.