USA Bucket List
If there is anything that we’re sure of, it’s that 2020 has been anything but normal!
That’s especially true for avid travelers like us who are used to spending our weekends on planes to explore new cities or who have been counting down the days to our European summer getaway. While getting used to our “new normal”, our team at Andiamo has been daydreaming of our next vacation.
We’ve been inspired by the idea of exploring destinations that are not too far from home, but that still provide a sense of place and a feeling of adventure. Travel industry trends are predicting travelers will be looking to get out of cities, get outdoors or go to the beach and we couldn’t agree more. While we’re stuck at home, our team is busy connecting with our hotel and destination partners to make sure that once we get the green light to travel, you have the best deals, most flexible policies and new destinations added to your bucket list.
#1. NANTUCKET, MASSACHUSETTS
Adirondack chairs, saltwater taffy, hydrangeas; this island off the coast of Cape Cod is the quintessential New England summer vacation. Stay at the White Elephant, which is located right in town and offers scenic water views and easy access to all of the shops and restaurants.
Staying in a hotel definitely has its perks, but we also love getting a rental home if you’re traveling with family or friends. Whether you want to stay right downtown or in the neighboring towns, there’s a wide variety of classic and modern homes to make you feel like you’re at your home away from home.
#2. NAPA, CALIFORNIA
Drive just one hour north of San Francisco and you will feel like you’ve arrived into the rolling hills of the European countryside. The Napa wine region has all the makings for a picturesque getaway. In addition to sipping some of the most critically acclaimed wines, you can expect picnics, olive oil tastings, horseback riding, and world class restaurants.
Our hotel pick is Meadowood, which is settled on a private estate and has a 5 star spa and Michelin star restaurant that specializes in local, sustainable cuisine. Napa is perfect for a romantic getaway to celebrate a birthday or anniversary that was originally celebrated in quarantine or for the first girls trip you’ve had since January!
Pro Tip: Take a hot air balloon ride above the vineyards for the ultimate view of Northern California
#3. KONA, HAWAII
Even though it's part of the US, Hawaii feels like it's in another world. And while it's not exactly a short flight, we promise it's worth it. Located on the Big Island, the town of Kona has everything needed for a warm weather getaway. Stay at the Four Seasons Hualalai, a beachfront property with 7 pools, a golf course, tennis courts and a fitness center - without even leaving the property!
#4. CANYON POINT, UTAH
Amangiri (meaning, peaceful mountain) is located on a private estate of 600 acres in Utah. It is the ultimate destination for outdoor exploration in a remote setting with luxury accommodations.
Pro Tip: Book this with us well in advance as the 34 room property is ALWAYS in high demand!
#5. SANTE FE, NEW MEXICO
Sante Fe is an unique destinations that still remains relatively undiscovered by many domestic travelers. Luxury Hotel Brands understood the allure of these cities years ago and there are definitely options that meet our high standards! We recommend staying at Rosewood’s Inn of the Anasazi or Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado. Both properties create their own magical oasis in the midst of the desert skyline.
Pro Tip: Book your trip the first week of October to catch the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, a nine-day event each year featuring over 500 hot air balloons. Albuquerque is less than 1hr away from Santa Fe!