Where will your travels take you in 2020? To the sun-kissed shores of the Maldives? Dubai’s sparkling skyscrapers? Or London’s creative culinary scene? Whatever your travel goals are in 2020, our list of inspirational destinations will drive your wanderlust. From the timeless style of Capri to the energy of China’s Guangzhou, each of these exciting locations are truly unforgettable and resolutely now. Leave an imprint on your soul in 2020 by escaping to somewhere out of the ordinary.

Sunny beach in Capri, Italy

Capri, Italy

The enduring allure of the glamorous Italian island Capri has long made it a favourite of the discerning jetsetter. Sleek superyachts drop anchor around its jagged coastline as prickly pear-covered rugged mountains rise up from the deep turquoise Tyrrhenian Sea. In 2020 Capri welcomes the arrival of Capri Palace Jumeirah. Nestled in a hillside in Anacapri, overlooking the Gulf of Naples, its scenic location is unsurpassed on the island. But what else to explore? Time on Capri is best spent meandering through its narrow lanes to elegant piazzas and stylish boutiques where pink bougainvillea blooms tumble from walls and villas. Do try the island’s signature eat; insalata Caprese, sun-ripened tomatoes with creamy buffalo mozzarella and fragrant local basil.

Stay: Capri Palace Jumeirah in Anacapri.

Guangzhou, China

It may not have the fanfare of Hong Kong or Shanghai, but Guangzhou is emerging as a serious cultural contender when it comes to cosmopolitan Chinese cities. A slew of cutting-edge buildings like Zaha Hadid’s Opera House elevate Guangzhou’s status as an architectural leader, while the Pearl River cuts through the modern city like a knife. Above all, Guangzhou is a place of exhilarating contrasts where its ancient heritage is present in the 21st century. Ancient temples and colonial-era buildings rub up against gleaming skyscrapers. Formerly Canton, Guangzhou is home to some of the best dim sum in China.

Guangzhou cityscape

Stay: Jumeirah Guangzhou in the Tihane District.

Maldives

Beachcombers have been bewitched by the beauty of the Maldives for years, but increasingly it’s travellers looking for adventure and activities who are heading to this stunning island chain. From coming face-to-face with tropical fish on a scuba-diving expedition to snorkelling in the ocean’s azure-blue shallows, this part of the world is a water wonderland that’s home to turtles, giant manta ray and barracuda. You can even see them from the comfort of a mini-submarine or go fishing on a big-game yacht or traditional dhoni boat.

Dusk in the tropical Maldives Stay: Palm-fringed Bolifushi Island on the South Male Atoll is home to Jumeirah Vittaveli and its very own corner of paradise.

London, UK

‘When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life.’ It’s almost 250 years since writer Samuel Johnson uttered these famous words and, thankfully, there’s less danger than ever of a visitor to the English capital running out of things to do. From sightseeing to shopping, you are never far away from iconic landmarks or designer labels. And then there’s London's dynamic food and drink scene that runs from Michelin-starred restaurants to thriving street-food markets.

Luxury shopping in London

Stay: For a home away from home in this captivating capital city, book your stay at Grosvenor House Suites by Jumeirah Living.

Dubai, UAE

If ever there was a time to visit Dubai, it’s in 2020. The ever changing, rapidly developing Emirate is about to be reimagined once more with the arrival of Expo 2020. This extraordinary event will see the world’s leading thinkers, innovators, movers and shakers descend on the city to showcase their respective country’s achievements in unique pavilions. This is the first time a World Expo will be held in the Middle East. Expo 2020 aside, let’s not forget Dubai’s world-class mega malls, dazzlingly modern architecture and thrilling dining scene that make the Emirate such a draw.

Dubai cityscape

Stay: The iconic Burj Al Arab Jumeirah upon the shimmering Persian Gulf coastline.

Abu Dhabi, UAE

From sweeping sand dunes to the sparkling waters of the Persian Gulf, Abu Dhabi offers up plenty of holiday inspiration. With year-round sunshine, luxurious shopping malls, cutting-edge art galleries and striking architecture, this fascinating destination is increasingly winning over visitors with its mix of ancient traditions and dazzling modernity.

Stay: Enjoy island life at the Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort or embark on a desert safari from the comfort of Jumeirah Al Wathba Desert Resort & Spa.

Mallorca, Spain

Home to beautiful beaches and the rugged Tramuntana mountain range, Mallorca might be the largest of the Balearics, but this tranquil island off the coast of Spain promises a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With the Mediterranean lapping at its shores, fresh seafood and lazy walks on the beach are definitely on the agenda, but there’s also the natural beauty of the rugged peaks and forests that populate its untouched north coast.

Stay: Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa is surrounded by dramatic scenery and picture-perfect panoramas.