The Best Trips We Took in 2024

17.12.2024 - 17:35 / cntraveler.com / Nast Traveler

The best trips that Condé Nast Traveler editors took this year remind us that the classics are classics for a good reason. Many of us have had the privilege of traveling to some of the most far-flung corners of the earth, but few things can top the simple joys of either traveling with family, returning to beloved cities, and rediscovering our own backyards.

Our favorite trips of 2024 took us to natural idylls like the Hudson Valley in New York and Hoodsport in Washington, to perennial faves Japan and Paris, to the tiny islands of Canada and Greece. We embarked on winding road trips, We loved, we laughed, and ate a lot—and we hope this little look-back invites you to review the travel memories you've made this year with great fondness too.

For associate entertainment director Eugene Shevertalov, Japan was a feast for the senses.

Shevertalov delighted in Michelin-starred sushi everywhere he went in the country.

This August, I took a two-week journey through the iconic Japanese cities of Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto—trying things like takoyaki (fried octopus balls) and blowfish, and eating my weight in sushi. I expanded the list of “places I’ve eaten with Michelin Stars,” eating at spots like Narisawa in Tokyo; Sushi Hoshiyama and Nishitemma Nakamura in Osaka; and Shinmonzen Yonemura and Godan Miyazawa in Kyoto. Tokyo also presented ample opportunity for retail therapy which resulted in the need to purchase an extra checked bag. The most noteworthy experience was shopping for new eyewear at SOLAKZADE. Both my husband and I walked away with an antique pair. (Pro tip: you'll need to make an appointment.) In Tokyo, where we bookended the trip, I had the amazing opportunity to call the Mandarin Oriental and the Aman home. In Osaka, it was a​ couple of nights at The St. Regis, and in Kyoto, the Ritz-Carlon, which came with the highest degree of service. All were beautiful properties, but by far the most dramatic and culturally significant experience I had was staying at the multi-generational and family-run Beniya Mukayu Ryokan. From the moment I arrived in Ishikawa, a small village 45 minutes outside of Kanazawa, I knew that it was going to be exceptional. The Relais & Chateaux property has been in the same family for nearly 100 years. Under the stewardship of the third generation, Mr. and Mrs. Nakamichi, this ryokan is a combination of a cultural experience, a Japanese art museum, a high-end spa, and a restaurant. This experience was a true do-not-miss and one I will take with me for the rest of my life. —Eugene Shevertalov, associate entertainment director

Sometimes, it’s the small towns right in your own backyard that surprise you the most. Just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Portland, Oregon, my trip to