Top seven destinations to visit in 2021 - The Jewish Chronicle

Spectacular scenery, incredible natural wonders and thrilling nightlife all await you in 2021. From island paradises and dramatic mountains to chic historic towns and vibrant non-stop cities, the new year is ripe with exciting possibilities.

Why not start planning that trip you've been fantasising about during lockdown? Take your pick from the list below, chosen by Luxury Worldwide Collection. Whether you're considering a short city break or a far-flung, extended adventure, the travel experts at Luxury Worldwide Collection are ready to assist you.

Dubai

Few places on the planet do luxe as well as Dubai; even brunch is a lofty affair. But there's plenty of laidback fun to be had among the shiny skyscrapers, too. From boutique perusing to beach club lounging, it's easy to unwind. The nearby desert promises heart-pumping activities like dune bashing and sand boarding, as well as Bedouin-style overnight camps and traditional performances. The city has a number of kosher restaurants, notably Armani/Kaf at the Armani Hotel inside the Burj Khalifa, and with the UAE having recently opened its doors to Israeli tourists, more are likely to be on the way.

Must do: Visit Storyteller by Baba. Seating only 25 guests, this speakeasy-style spot is the smallest bar in the city. Find the hidden door at the Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi then enjoy a cocktail in the 1920s-themed surroundings.

Maldives

More than 1,000 islands make up this enchanting archipelago, and with pristine turquoise waters and soft white sand guaranteed, it's the perfect place to settle in for a week with a hammock and a good book. If you're a little more energetic, there's superb snorkelling and scuba diving, as well as watersports. Take a boat cruise at sunset; with the chance to spot whales and dolphins.

Don’t miss: For a chance to dine with the fishes, pay a visit to uber-luxe Subsix. It’s a 40-minute speedboat ride from Malé, but well worth it to enjoy a meal in the presence of local turtles, eels and other sea creatures.

Miami

Can't choose between a beach getaway and a city break? Well, why not have both? With long stretches of golden sand, a thriving art scene, and a lively atmosphere, Miami has plenty to tempt visitors. Of course, the local nightlife is also a huge draw; beach clubs, swanky cocktail bars and rooftop lounges... Kosher eateries are also plentiful, serving everything from sushi to pizza. If you can pull yourself away from the beach for long enough there are plenty of opportunities for hiking and other outdoor pursuits, with the nearby Oleta River State Park ideal for kayaking or cycling.

Must do: The city's art district in Wynwood is pure Instagram heaven, with an ever-changing line up of colourful street art visible at almost every turn.

Mauritius

For the ultimate blend of picturesque island landscapes and cosmopolitan bustle, Mauritius is hard to beat – from its crystal-clear waters and powder-soft sands to dramatic peaks and dense rainforest, as well as exceptional resorts and outstanding championship golf courses. You could go for a hike in the surrounding lush forest or chill at one of the island's luxury spas, take an islet-hopping boat trip or perhaps visit the local fishing villages.

Did you know?: The best views are those from Le Pouce, or The Thumb. It’s only a 90-minute climb to the top of this grassy peak, and then you’re rewarded with a 360-degree view of the entire country.

South Africa

For a real taste of the outdoors, South Africa is prime travel-list material. Firstly, there's the wildlife. Whether you're spotting the “big five”at Kruger National Park, penguin-watching at Boulders Beach in Cape Town or swimming with tiger sharks at KwaZulu Natal, the country offers sensational experiences and memory-making opportunities. Explore the beautiful Winelands, or catch some rays at Durban's Golden Mile. Also not to be missed is a visit to Cape Town's Table Mountain, even if you do opt to scale it via cable car.

Must do: Heading to Cape Town? For drinks amid Victorian splendour and a characterful garden twinkling with fairy lights, visit Kloof Street House.

Italy

Postcard-worthy, sunshine-laden and forever elegant, Italy has more UNESCO World Heritage cultural sites than anywhere else in the world. There’s a plethora of museums, architecture and archaeological sites to explore, including of course the fascinating ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Sicily and Sardinia, meanwhile, provide some of the world's best beaches, while Tuscany and Umbria have charming towns and gorgeous mountain views.

Did you know?: The country's Liguria region, home to dazzling destinations like Portofino and the Cinque Terre, has more Blue Flag beaches than anywhere else in Italy.

Caribbean Cruises

Why pick just one destination when you could enjoy some of the world's most scenic places on one trip? It may be best known for its unspoilt white sand beaches and inviting clear seas, but there's much more to the Caribbean. From the vintage charm of colourful Cuba and vibrant Jamaica to the ample hiking opportunities of St Lucia to the rainforest and waterfalls of Dominica, it's not hard to create a jam-packed itinerary in this enthralling part of the world, and a cruise is surely the best way to do it.

Don’t miss: If you’re planning a cruise for late 2021, join the Junkanoo celebrations on December 26. With a grand parade featuring vibrant costumes, live music and plenty of dancing, it’s impossible to not be swept along in the carnival spirit.

Whether you picture yourself unwinding at a luxury island resort, climbing a mountain peak or sipping cocktails at a rooftop bar in the heart of the city, now is the perfect time to put your plans into action. If you're looking for a hassle-free holiday to some of the world's most magnificent locations, with refined service and exceptional amenities guaranteed, Luxury Worldwide Collection is for you. From all-inclusive island resort breaks to Caribbean cruises, your best holiday ever could be right around the corner. Where will you go in 2021?