After a long pandemic-induced pause, 2023 proved to be a banner year for travel. Americans in particular traveled in droves, checking domestic and international destinations off their bucket lists in unprecedented numbers.
The coming year is projected to bring more of the same, and AAA travel partners are gearing up with vacation packages to match every preference and budget. In this article, we’ll take a look at 6 distinctive destinations that will see huge demand in 2024—as well as expert tips from AAA Travel Advisors on when to go and how to enjoy the very best of each experience.
UNFORGETTABLE LAND JOURNEYS, CULTURALLY IMMERSIVE CRUISING, MULTI-FLIGHT DESTINATIONS
1. TRAIN RIDE THROUGH THE CANADIAN ROCKIES
Incredible scenery, Native American culture, and fresh regional cuisine are just a few of the highlights awaiting travelers aboard the Rocky Mountaineer’s First Passage to the West, a luxury train route from vibrant Vancouver to breathtaking Banff National Park.
- Perfect for: Ultimate luxury seekers who prefer to experience untamed wilderness through a panoramic, glass-domed roof.
- Best time to go: Late spring through early summer, when thawing mountain glaciers feed cascading waterfalls, wildflowers, and scores of wildlife.
2. AUTHENTIC SAFARI LUXURY IN SOUTH AFRICA
Cultural immersion meets unparalleled service in AAA’s long list of expert-guided South Africa Safari Vacations. It’s your chance to tour iconic cities, wildlife preserves, famed South African wineries, and other spectacular spots—in comfort and style.
- Perfect for: Upscale outdoorsy types who expect world-class cuisine and modern-eclectic accommodations after a long day of exploration.
- Best time to go: Cooler temps in May through September are ideal for observing big game in their natural habitat.
3. COASTAL AUSTRALIA’S FRIENDLIEST PORTS
Few places capture the imagination like Australia, but the continent’s incredible size can make for a daunting itinerary. Fortunately, AAA cruise partners remove the guesswork with coast-hugging Australia routes from Sydney to Fremantle and all points between.
- Perfect for: Wandering spirits whose ideal walkabout includes stops at culturally diverse ports and attractions.
- Best time to go: During the September – November and March – May shoulder seasons. There’s still plenty of sunshine—and much smaller crowds.
4. ENCHANTING RHINE RIVER CRUISES
River cruises are the perfect way to glimpse storied European destinations. Passengers aboard the Enchanting Rhine from AMAWaterways traverse more than 500 miles from Switzerland to Amsterdam, passing charming villages and hilltop castles along the way.
- Perfect for: Globe-trotters who crave a bird’s eye view of European life, history, and culture.
- Best time to go: Summertime offers peak river scenery, but the spring and fall shoulder seasons typically bring lower prices and smaller crowds.
5. HAWAIIAN ISLAND-HOPPING BY AIR
Hawaii’s most popular destinations—Big Island, Kauai, Oahu, and Maui—offer something distinctive for vacationers of every kind. But why choose just one slice of paradise, when you can enjoy an island-hopping adventure with AAA regional airline partners?
- Perfect for: Cosmopolitan travelers, outdoor adventurers, self-proclaimed beach bums, and every Hawaii lover in between.
- Best time to go: There’s no wrong time to visit, but inter-Hawaii flights are generally more affordable in the spring and fall.
6. ITALY’S BEST-KEPT SECRETS UNVEILED
Rome wasn’t built in a day, but thanks to the Ultimate Italy Guided Tour from AAA, you can experience all its natural and man-made wonders before jet-setting off to other exquisite Italian destinations like the Vatican, Pompeii, Capri, Florence, and Venice.
- Perfect for: Anyone whose dream vacation includes culture, shopping, scenery, and nightlife—plus absolutely life-changing cuisine.
- Best time to go: Perks to visiting in the peak months of May, June, September, and October include perfect weather and an endless calendar of tourist-friendly events and attractions.
