Ovolo 1888 Darling Harbour

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.

As the annual Fourth of July celebrations recede in a haze of firework smoke and backyard BBQs, it left us feeling a little patriotic. The revelry may have become something of an art form in America, but nations around the globe celebrate their independence in a variety of fascinating and often quirky ways. Read on as we take a closer look at some of the larger celebrations, providing a little hotel inspiration along the way.