While 2020 is winding down, there is still plenty of time for you to make a last-minute escape from the craziness of this year. Although COVID-19 is on the rise again in many countries, others have set restrictions and protections in place to once again allow them to invite tourists to enjoy what they have to offer.
Watch the Sunrise (or set) on Angkor Wat
Most have seen gorgeous photos of Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, but until you venture here, you don’t feel the magnitude of this incredible temple. For a bit of magic, watch the sunrise over Angkor Wat and slowly see the viewing pool turn into a reflective mirror — creating two beautiful monuments.
The size of Angkor Wat itself is only the beginning; it’s actually one of ten temples, most of which are within walking or cycling distance of one another. The compound is so big, the country sells three, five, and weeklong entrances passes to the area and recommend hiring a motorbike guide, so that you can try to see all the ruins of Siem Reap.
Tahiti
If you’re looking for a place to let your worries float away, then a private overwater bungalow in Tahiti is the place for you. Wake up to the sound of the waves lapping against your porch and enjoy your coffee with marine-life neighbors as you look around and feel as though you have made it to the end of the earth. You can swing on a porch hammock or float in the waves to revive your spirit or follow in the footsteps of the real Captain Hook and hike to one of the many waterfalls if you’re in need of a good quest.
Tahiti is also full of cultural museums and open-air markets for those looking to appreciate the history of Tahiti before diving back into the water to enjoy the beautiful environment. Tahiti is known for both surfing and deep-sea scuba diving, so be sure to pack a wetsuit!
Experience Omakase in New York
Omakase became popular in 1990s Japan as more people dove into this culinary world, but didn’t exactly know where to begin. In order to help their diners, the tradition of omakase, loosely translated to I will leave it to you, was popularized to allow both a delicious and educational dining experience. It is said that it also allowed for chefs to be more creative and use their special catch of the day along with ingredients they had on hand without the added pressure of disappointing guests if the same items were not available the next time.
Now in New York City, Omakase has become the most elite and expensive sushi experience in the city, far more gastronomic art than a simple dinner out. Omakase in New York is generally a very intimate experience in which you have a personal chef tailoring each course to what they feel you would most like. While these restaurants are becoming more common, be sure to make a reservation far in advance to guarantee a seat at this tiny table.
South Korea
When it comes to skincare, few can top South Korea’s cosmetic culture. All over the country, you can find creams and scrubs made from the volcanic sands of Jeju island just off the south point of South Korea. The black sand is supposed to have restorative properties that are used to heal everything from common blemishes to stress.
For brave travelers ready to take their self-care to the next level, head to a traditional Korean spa or jjimjilbang. A jjimjilbang is an experience you either love or you hate — there’s really no in-between — but until you try it, you’ll never know. The services offered at these spas vary, but you can always expect an incredibly vigorous scrub down sure to peel away all your toxins and likely more naked bodies than you care to see at one time. After floating in the many warm baths or sweating your stress away in the sauna, you can nap in one of the many lounge spaces or enjoy a lavish Korean meal, all while wearing light pajamas. Jjimjilbangs really are a whole other world.
Photo by Markus Winkler from Pexels
Make the Plunge
Time is ticking, and 2020 is (thankfully) almost over, so don’t wait to book your next safe journey. From mandatory quarantines upon arrival to proof of negative Covid test results, be sure to check what your destination requires before you set off for your next.
Wanna go? We can help! Baroque Travel has end-to-end travel solutions that will provide you with the best luxury travel experience of a lifetime. Call our travel consultants at +1-212-726-0711 or email us at info@baroquetravel.com.
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Meet the Writer!
Taylor Fox is a New York-based travel and food writer, specializing in the impact of food within culture.
Learn more about Taylor at TaylorPerezFox.