Forget fitness routines and weight-loss promises, 2024 is about you and travel. Globetrotting has always been en vogue, but come tomorrow we’re setting our sights on SO‘s top travel destinations for 2024.

Sifnos, Greece

With Margot Robbie vacationing post-Barbie, and English/Albanian singer Dua Lipa luxuriating there this summer, we figure the less-crowded Greek destination — which has attracted the likes of Tom Hanks and Scarlett Johansson — might not remain quiet for much longer.

Madagascar

If you relish adventure, Madagascar is a once-in-a-lifetime destination. Spend your days lounging on idyllic islands, trekking through verdant rainforests, hiking around jaw-dropping rock formations and spotting unique wildlife. Located in the Indian Ocean, east of Mozambique, this African paradise is the fourth-largest island in the world, and has been described as one of the world’s most unique countries.

Seychelles

The Seychelles is made up of two main groups of over several islands in the western Indian Ocean. Its closest neighbours are Kenya, around 1,600 kilometres to the west, and Madagascar, which lies about 1,100 kilometres south. Sailing, diving, fishing and relaxing are the main activities for visitors to the 115 islands of the archipelago.

Accra, Ghana

You’d be hard-pressed to find another travel destination as buzzy right now as west Africa in December. Once labelled ‘Africa’s Capital Of Cool’ by The New York Times, Accra in particular has quickly become a top destination for travellers. Just ask Asafa Powell and his Ghanaian wife Alysia Miller-Powell, who brought their star power to the capital city earlier this year, and jetted back a few weeks ago for Detty December — a festive period where African city hot spots like Lagos and Accra come alive with music, arts, culture, and entertainment, and thousands of tourists. Plus, recently engaged financial consultant Patricia “Budget Auntie” Henry is being shown around by her Ghanaian fiancé Dr William Brown.

Giza, Egypt

A Giza Pyramids tour is an experience like no other and is the perfect blend of adventure, learning, and relaxation. From breathtaking views of the ancient Pyramids, stunning sunsets, vibrant markets, and friendly locals, to exploring the history, archaeology, and culture of one of the world’s most fascinating countries, the spot has become a must-see for Insta’ jetsetters.

Grenada

Known as the ‘Spice Isle’, Grenada emerged a surreptitious yet accessible Caribbean getaway for many when JetBlue added direct flights from the John F Kennedy Airport in 2017. Silversands and Laluna continue to find favour among celebrities like R&B superstar Monica, rapper Ludacris, and hollywood actor Robert Downey Jr.

Mongolia

A nation bordered by China and Russia, Mongolia’s dramatic landscape has long captivated travellers looking for unique experiences. With the government declaring 2023 through 2025 the ‘years to visit Mongolia’, citizens from 34 new countries can visit visa-free. And while Jamaica isn’t included on the list, we believe the trip is worth the eVisa application.

Source: edition.cnn.com/travel/

Quito, Ecuador

A city on the rise, Quito is finally getting its due.

The high-altitude city — dramatically situated, squeezed between mountain peaks whose greenery is often concealed by the afternoon mist — is a fantastic gateway to the Galápagos Islands, an honorary mention on our list.

Paris, France

Because quintessential snaps in front of the Eiffel Tower totally illuminated at night never get old. Paris’s success as a top tourist destination can be attributed to several factors, but we imagine the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum and Sacré Coeur are top of list. And our Instagram feeds are proof! Plus, Paris is hosting the 2024 Summer Olympics.

Tokyo, Japan

From its historical landmarks to its ultra-modern urban design and fashion-forward take on style, Tokyo has a unique allure for every traveller. But we reckon, vintage bag collectors may find the trip even more appealing since Japan (Tokyo, Osaka) is the epicentre of vintage shopping.

GoldenEye, Jamaica…the birthplace of Bond

Where do celebrities stay when they come to Jamaica? More often than not: GoldenEye Hotel & Resort, Oracabessa, St Mary. The luxury resort’s Christmas 2023 guest list included (based on IG posts) among others, fashion designer Christian Siriano, actress Alicia Silverstone, as well as comedian Dave Chappelle.

Phi Phi Islands, Thailand

Made famous by the 2000 adventure drama The Beach, which used the nearby Maya Bay as a film set, the small island (it’s only 12 square kilometres!) has over the years become home to hundreds of high-end resorts and has welcomed travellers looking for a cinematic getaway.