2024 TRAVEL SPECIAL

Looking for holiday inspiration for the coming year? Here's our pick of dazzling destinations and when to best enjoy them

- ALAMY, ANDREW HOWARD, 

JANUARY
THE GREAT KAROO, SOUTH AFRICA

The Karoo region is a semi-desert landscape stretching across four South African provinces. Thanks to the hard work of conservation-driven couple Mark and Sarah Tompkins, 67,000 acres have been transformed into a biodiverse habitat known as Samara Karoo Reserve, where lions, leopards, cheetahs, wildebeest and springbok live protected in their natural habitat. The new Plains Camp is wonderfully unpretentious, lit only by candlelight and oil lamps, and offering homely comfort and great views across the wildlife-speckled plains. Visit samara.co.za

FEBRUARY 
ISLA PALENQUE, PANAMA

Ever fancied escaping to your own private island? Then a trip to Panama’s idyllic Isla Palenque could be the key to busting the winter blues. Once home to indigenous tribes, this small, rainforest-covered island now hosts just one exclusive resort – and continues to be cherished by locals for its forest landscape and vast array of flora and birdlife. Days here are spent exploring the thick jungles, with hikes leading to panoramic views over the coast.

Or try adventure activities such as kayaking through mangroves, whale watching (late August to October), and sunset cruises. The island’s nine beaches – each with powder-soft white sand – can be enjoyed against the backdrop of verdant rainforest. Book a casita at the eco-focused Isla Palenque Resort to enjoy the palm-fringed infinity pool, yoga among the coconut palms, and massages overlooking the tranquil Playa Primera bay. Return boat transfers from Boca Chica on the mainland are included. Visit islapalenque.com