Where to Spend Summer: From the Maldives to Manhattan (and Beyond)

There’s something about summer that calls for a shift. Not just in wardrobe, but in scenery, rhythm, and state of mind.

Whether you’re dreaming of barefoot sunsets in the Maldives or sleek city nights in Manhattan, the perfect getaway is less about distance and more about intention. This year, we’re trading the obvious for the unforgettable—think boutique gems, coastal escapes, and high-altitude hideaways that speak to both luxury and character.

From the rugged mountains of Oman to the rooftops of Tokyo, this is our curated guide to summer done right. Places that feel like you’ve already been there in another life—or might never want to leave.

Heritance Aarah, Maldives

As the final stretch of summer approaches, Heritance Aarah in the Maldives offers one last, unforgettable escape. Set in the untouched Raa Atoll and accessible via scenic seaplane, this all-villa retreat blends island elegance with effortless comfort. Ideal for both families and couples, the resort’s Two-Bedroom Family Pool Beach Villas offer generous space and privacy, while kids dive into adventure at the Koka Kids Club.

From sunrise kayaking to sunset cruises, the days flow with ease between thrill and calm. Dining is a highlight—think teppanyaki shows at Hathaa, Sri Lankan tasting menus at Ambula, and global breakfasts at Ranba. Evenings bring barefoot dinners under the stars and live music at Bandhi bar.

With the Premium All-Inclusive plan covering nearly everything—à la carte meals, in-villa minibar, water sports—your only job is to relax. Through the Heritance Exclusive Summer Offer, guests enjoy full benefits plus resort credits, seaplane lounge access, and more.

For a perfect sign-off to summer, this is where to be.

More info, here

Alila Jabal Akhdar, Oman

Elevated above Muscat by 15°C, Alila Jabal Akhdar offers mountain serenity with a modern edge. The “15 Degrees Cooler” offer returns 25% of your room rate as resort credit—ideal for spa ceremonies inspired by Omani wellness, sunset mocktails at Rose Lounge, or canyon hikes through ancient villages. Architecture crafted from local stone blends into the dramatic landscape, and infinity pools overlook prairie skies. This is luxury rooted in earth and elevation.

More info, here

Jeanne & The Forest, France

Just outside Paris, Jeanne & The Forest in Chantilly feels like walking into a Belle Époque painting—with an unfiltered creative spirit. Velvet interiors, secret gardens, modern work lounges, and theatrical Sunday tea mixes aristocratic formality with playful immersion. Whether drafting emails in an antique drawing room or stepping into period costumes for brunch, this estate captures an elegant blend of nostalgia and newness.

More info, here

Nikki Beach Resorts, Greece

Nikki Beach in Porto Heli and Santorini rewrites Greek summer luxury. Porto Heli’s laid-back beach charm meets rooftop dusk cocktails, while Santorini invites you to a DJ-led beachfront escape away from the caldera tourist surge. Private pools, DJ sets, seaside relaxation—and a sense of effortless glamour that defines modern island chic.

More info about Porto Heli, here. For Santorini, here

Corinthia New York, Manhattan

If summer in the city means Upper East Side elegance, then The Surrey, A Corinthia Hotel, is where it comes to life. The newly reimagined landmark has quickly become one of New York’s most iconic addresses, offering a blend of classic grandeur and discreet contemporary luxury. Officially opened in late 2024, this Corinthia flagship is a tribute to quiet indulgence and architectural heritage, just steps from Central Park and Madison Avenue.

The hotel’s signature suites—designed by Martin Brudnizki—are inspired by the storied bridges of Central Park, marrying timeless design with bespoke artistry. Whether it’s the romance of the Bethesda Grandeur Suite or the sculptural elegance of The Surrey Suite, every space exudes curated calm. Antica Farmacista bath amenities, in-suite snacks, private access to the house car, and dedicated tables at Casa Tua—New York’s chic new culinary address—elevate the guest experience.

But The Surrey isn’t just about opulence—it’s about thoughtful detail. Guests can unwind in The Surrey Spa with treatments by Sisley Paris, soak in Central Park-inspired bathing rituals, and discover art collections curated in collaboration with VISTO Gallery. This is not just a hotel—it’s a summer sanctuary, a place where Manhattan’s artistic spirit, old-world grace, and modern hospitality meet in perfect harmony.

More info, here

The Peninsula Tokyo, Ginza

In the heart of Tokyo’s upscale Ginza district, The Peninsula redefines Japanese hospitality with timeless elegance. From a rooftop spa overlooking the Imperial Palace to curated Japan-focused cuisine, the property offers a serene counterpoint to Ginza’s neon pace. Bespoke art installations, city-to-temple excursions, and a sense of calm under minimalism make it a summer sanctuary in the city that never sleeps.

More info, here

One&Only Portonovi, Montenegro

Set on Montenegro’s Adriatic coast, One&Only Portonovi blends European grandeur with relaxed seaside charm. Cove-side villas nestle into the blue bay, and Mediterranean gardens frame your views. Michelin-grade dining, spa rituals with regional botanicals, and yacht excursions across glistening waters make it an unexpected but unforgettable stop on your summer map.

More info, here