It’s summer! Mentally, I’m on vacation. Physically, I’m hydrating to prepare for Memorial Day weekend — the official start of summer — and making plans for this summer and beyond.
One thing about me? When I’m on a vacation, I always think about how to take more vacation time.
We can get so stuck in the daily grind that we often forget to take time off, we put off our dreams of traveling, and keep saying “one day” while staring at our mood boards.
But the instant you escape the tedium and humdrum days, you’re inspired to actually plan your travel instead of hate-scrolling through the Instagram feeds of people who are out there bragging about their actual vacations.
Another thing about me: when I’m on vacation I don’t rest up. I’m usually scheduled tight, running from museum to cafe to market and back — barely sleeping, trying to soak up all the culture I can. While on my fool’s quest to act like a local in a city I’ve never visited before, I always have tons of fun. But reality hits when the plane lands back in LAX and I’m completely exhausted.
This year, after watching shows like White Lotus, I’ve resolved to take at least one trip when I hole up in an all-inclusive resort, doing nothing but basking in the sun and dozing off with a book.
I want breakfast in bed or breakfast buffets — no Airbnb kitchens, please. I want poolside drink service and resort dinners. I want to be right by the beach or overlooking nature. I do not care if I have to save for years, I’m determined to do this — in the most luxurious way possible.
All of this to say, I simply need to get away, shut my brain off, and simply enjoy luxurious service. So, to garner some inspo, I’ve researched the best all-inclusive resorts near and far.
Here are the bucketlist resorts I have been eyeing:
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Four Seasons San Domenico Palace
White Lotus Season 2 is based on the luxe resort. Of course, this palatial Italian retreat is the star of my fantasies. Perched on a rocky promontory high above the Ionian Sea, the iconic San Domenico Palace welcomes you to a reimagined 14th-century convent. Swim in their clifftop infinity pool, stroll in magnificent Italian gardens, take in the history, savor Michelin-starred dining, and escape into a Four Seasons world of timeless beauty.
Amenities include 3 on-site dining options, a pool, and a fitness center — not to mention the beach and the stone city of Taormina right on your doorstep.
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
I’m also enamored by White Lotus Season 1 which is set in Hawaii. Just hours from my home in LAX, this resort is more attainable in terms of proximity — but similarly lofty in luxury. This oceanside oasis offers nature and pure relaxation. Celebrate the wonders of Maui in an open-air beachfront resort – and allow their team to pamper you in the spirit of Aloha. Inhale the divine scent of plumeria as you dip into their adults-only infinity pool. Or set out to explore the island — the resort will customize each step of your journey, then welcome you back to unwind in the most spacious accommodations on the island.
The year-round weather makes it a resort for all seasons. Winter is for whaling and other activities include scuba, paddling, yoga, spas and massages, and a pool with massive beachfront access.
Susurros del Corazón, Mexico
On the Mexican shoreline, Susurros del Corazón is a seaside enclave crafted by nature. Nestled between jungled cliffs on a pristine stretch of beach, Susurros del Corazón is a luxuriously relaxed surf retreat that celebrates natural beauty and the playful spirit. A beach unlike any other in Punta De Mita, you can go on a surf safari, watch Humpback whales, or relax to the echoes of rolling waves.
Paradero Mexico, Todos Santos
In the heart of Baja California Sur, this beachside hotel is a luxury wellness experience that’s been on my bucket list for years. Experience boutique wellness journies like morning yoga and Temezcal ceremonies, hiking, surfing, and even taco tours. This luxe resort provides eco-friendly, farm-to-table cuisine from top chefs, and is surrounded by majestic landscapes.
At Paradero Todos Santos, marvel at the combination of splendor and simplicity to provide a guest experience that’s rooted in community, brimming with adventure, and ripe with sensory delight. The desert and beach combine to create an immersive experience that’s exactly what you make of it.
Giraffe Manor, Kenya
There’s nothing more immersive than a safari — except maybe waking up to a giraffe poking his head into your bedroom. Giraffes roam free around the grounds, making for an even more inclusive experience than most safaris.
One of the most unique places to stay in the world, Giraffe Manor blends extraordinary wildlife encounters with exquisite hospitality and a long-term commitment to giraffe conservation. The historic manor house is set on 12 acres of private land within 140 acres of indigenous forest in the Langata suburb of Nairobi. Savor a bush breakfast, watch the sunrise in the desert, then head out and explore the wild.
Miraval Arizona, Tuscon, Arizona
For a domestic getaway that promises all the luxury of a trip abroad, look no further. Hop a flight to the Arizonan desert and you’ll be transported to another world. Nestled in the Sonoran desert in full view of the Catalina mountains, experience magnificent views and an immersive wellness experience.
This premier wellness destination is designed to help you create a life in balance through mindfulness. With pioneering programs, exclusive spa treatments, nourishing cuisine, and world-class wellness specialists, Miraval Resorts will help you to live your best life, don’t worry about a single thing.
