The pandemic has thrown everyone’s plans in the works and many are staying closer to home, But when it comes to the holidays there are some tried and true destinations you can bet you’ll find the celebs this year. If the past is any indicator they are likely to be hitting the slopes and the sand. These are the top celebrity holiday vacations, where your name doesn’t need to be Bella or Kendall to go.
Aspen
Where to Stay: The Little Nell
As far as celebrity holiday vacations go, this one will always be on the list. Pandemic, no pandemic; it doesn’t matter. Names like Mariah Carey, Kim Kardashian, Heidi Klum and all of your favorites have Aspen firmly only the circuit. We all need a little bit of fresh air right now and there’s nowhere more spacious than gorgeous Aspen. Year round, the picturesque mountains are the backdrop and destination of celebrities looking to get a dose of the great outdoors. Of course you’re going to ski, ski, and ski some more this holiday season.
But Aspen isn’t limited on socially distant activities. You and your family can hike, take snow mobile rides or dog sled before cozying up by the fire. Even better when it’s at the Little Nell, the go-to hotel for celebrities every year. The ski in ski out at the base of the mountain attracts those looking to be out on the slopes all day. When it comes to celebrity holiday vacations, nowhere is more perfect to get into the Christmas spirit than in the snowy mountains.
Hawaii
Where to Stay: Four Seasons Lanai
Hawaii has been the destination this year for the likes of Billie Eilish, Britney Spears and Justin Bieber. These beauties have all made use of Covid-19 openings to get away. And many others like the Obamas have permanent residences where they’re sure to be this holiday season.
When it comes to the holidays Hawaii is where to get away from the cold. It’s also one of the celebrity holiday vacations to really relax in the sun and the sand. The Four Seasons Lanai has your back when it comes to a luxury stay, good for the whole family. Set on a rugged coastline, Lanai boasts hikes, cultural tours, ponds and temples. And of course all of the water activities like scuba diving and surfing. When it comes to Christmas, who needs turkey and stuffing when you have Nobu at Lanai. At the hotel, modern minimal decor and simple and beautiful living spaces are beautiful and homey. Because after all, there’s no place like a Four Seasons home.
Antigua
Where to Stay: Jumby Bay
It’s looking like the Caribbean is up and running for business even through all that this year has brought with it. And if you need a little encouragement, the stars have tested the waters for one of the best celebrity holiday vacations. Famous singer, Ashanti just celebrated her birthday in Antigua and Barbuda. Anywhere you go on the small Caribbean island you’ll find pristine white sand beaches and lush gardens, but we recommend you hit up Jumby Bay. The luxury all inclusive with villas and residences will completely take care of you and your family. Think of it as all you can enjoy, which includes private yacht trips, bikes for the fam, watersports and spa sessions.
When you arrive you’ll be completely swept away in carefree island living. There’s no question why this particular hotel is a top celebrity holiday destination. Jumby Bay pulls out all stops. For Christmas you can sail around the island and enjoy a bespoke jazz brunch while you sit by the pool or relax on the white sands. On New Years you can watch the last sunset on the beach before dressing for the black tie Back to the Future Ball. We bet not many places this year will be hosting parties. But with the COVID-19 measures in place at Jumby Bay, Christmas and New Years can feel familiar in a not so familiar way.
Jamaica
Where to Stay: Round Hill
Even amidst COVID-19, Madonna still made it out to the island to celebrate her birthday this year. While she didn’t disclose exactly where she and her boyfriend slow danced and sipped cocktails, we have some guesses. You know, if Madonna shows up, it must be one of the top celebrity holiday vacations. Your Christmas dinner can be a barbecue on the beach after a day of horseback riding and waterskiing with the kids. And if you’re like Madonna, you can dance all night. If you’re not traveling to see family this year, it’s the perfect excuse to base yourself in Jamaica. We also always love the Round Hill for their plush villas and tip top service which makes your family feel right at home. When you need a really luxurious getaway, they’ve got you covered.
Los Cabos
Where to Stay: Four Seasons Costa Palmas
You can pretty much always find a celebrity in Cabo whether that’s Will Smith, The Kardashians, Zac Efron, or George Clooney when he’s not at home in Lake Como. The sun and sandy beaches draw endless amounts of celebs looking to unwind and relax during the day and party at night. When it comes to Cabo there is no shortage of places where we’re betting you’ll be able to people watch whether you’re golfing with Will Smith at El Dorado, or relaxing on Lover’s Beach with Jennifer Anniston.
And one of Gwyneth Paltrow’s favorite places to stay is Esperanza where you’ll likely see her with her family enjoying their own Hacienda this holiday season. Oceanfront villas and suites offer full kitchens where you can cook up your holiday meals with the view of the ocean or you can head up to Cocina del Mar for a home cooked classic Turkey Dinner on Christmas night. And on New Year’s Eve they are setting the scene for a night to remember with their dazzling party which will set the tone for a positive new year.
The Hamptons
Where to Stay: The Reform Club or Shou Sugi Ban House
This is a little-known secret, that even in a non-pandemic year, you’ll run into everyone from Renee Zellweger, Jon Bon Jovi, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jennifer Lopez, the Spielbergs and other A-Listers at their Hamptons homes celebrating the holidays. This year, because so many people have decided to stay and spend more time out East given the pandemic, you may even run into the likes of Scarlett Johansson and her new husband, Saturday Night Live cast member Colin Jost.
French Polynesia
Where to Stay: The Brando
There is something about 2020 that has us yearning for a beach. And not just any beach, but one that is totally isolated from the world and where social distancing was a thing way before we ever heard of COVID. And when Obama stays there on the recommendation of Leonardo DiCaprio, you know it’s a top celebrity vacation spot.
Tahiti is always a good idea, and even more so this year. Yes, the Brando is the premier resort in the country, but there are at least a half-dozen other spots that are celebrity worthy. Bora Bora is home to some luxurious resorts, frequented by the likes of Nicole Kidman and Eva Longoria, that are more than celebrity worthy.
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