It’s a new year and with the shortest day already behind us we’ve started to think about our dream destinations to soak up some sun in 2024. Discover our picks for the UK, Europe and further afield and the hotels we’re lusting over. Plus we share our packing lists for each destination featuring items from SunShipped as well as Australian and Kiwi brands we’re loving right now.
The UK
Eden - I didn’t think I’d ever say this but it has to be Scotland for my UK summer destination. My goal is to explore as much of Scotland as possible this year and while there’s no guarantee of enough sun for a tan there will be sunny days. I’ve got my eye on The Dipping Lugger in Ullapool.
What I’ll be packing for the Scotland staycation:
Holly - I’m putting Newquay in Cornwall at the top of my UK destinations list for summer 2024. I used to spend summer in Cornwall as a kid and I’m looking forward to taking my toddler there now. The dream hotel is Watergate Bay which I’ve had bookmarked for a while. I’m on board with their ethos of “getting among the elements, eating and drinking well, having a good time with family and friends.”
What I’ll be packing for Cornwall:
- Sun Rituals Tecopa Towel
- Isle of Eden Emily Sunnies
- Jumper from Australian master of basics, Assembly label
Europe
Holly - I’ve wanted to go to Greece forever, so island hopping around the Cyclades is my dream European destination at the moment. One&Only Kéa Island is due to open this spring, promising discretion and seclusion, ideal for soaking up the Mediterranean sun!
What I’ll be packing for Greece:
- Soleil Soleil Odette Dress (the print is inspired by Greek gardens)
- Glossifying Hair Mist from Kiwi, Chole Zara
- Bondi Born Zuri One Piece
Eden - I am desperate to go back to Ibiza... but for a different kind of holiday this time round. I really want to cycle round the island and enjoy the more relaxed version of Ibiza. I’ll be staying at Aguamadera Ibiza located in Santa Eularia des Riu. In a historic building, 11 km from Marina Botafoch, Aguamadera is a sustainable farm stay with an outdoor swimming pool and garden. It’s absolutely ideal for a relaxed holiday with yoga and fitness classes available daily.
- Soleil Soleil Helios Trousers and Vest (from the Costa collection, inspired by Costa Brava and Ibiza lifestyle)
- Maria Farrow Aelia Sandal
Aguamadera Farm Stay, Ibiza
Further Afield
Eden - I’ve had Vietnam on the bucket list for quite some time. I’d love to do it on a budget and properly travel, visit the bustling city of Hanoi but also venture out to Sapa and enjoy the beautiful countryside. I’ve got La Siesta on my list for a place to kick back at the end of the trip - it’s conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from Hoi An’s Old Quarter. It’s the ideal place to stay in Hoi An if you want to lounge by the pool with a refreshing cocktail in hand. Or if you want to have some fun in the sun with the whole family!
- Sun Ritual Lagos Towel
- Lack of Color (dream Aussie brand) Raffia Cowboy Hat
- Darcy Helios Shirt from Soleil Soleil
Holly - The number one dream spot for me is Grenada in the Caribbean. Nicknamed the “Spice Island”, Grenada is apparently like one giant garden, with tropical fruit, flowers and spices grown in every spare corner. I’d be booking Silversands Grenada on Grand Anse Beach, which has the longest pool in the Caribbean and a spa with its own pool. Sign me up.
What I’ll be packing for Grenada:
- The Soleil Soleil Halle Dress
- Jewellery from new Australian brand Sun Muse
- Mi Piaci Portland Sandal - my favourite shoe brand from New Zealand
