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Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica
With ecotourism oh-so-Disney now, you have to go pretty far to have the rain forest to yourself. Getting to the untouched Osa Peninsula is half the adventure—it includes a short plane ride from San José and a bumpy drive with rivers to ford. But, oh, the rewards: you might spot a wildcat or Baird’s tapir.
Check In Luna Lodge, perched on a mountain facing Corcovado National Park, has eight bungalows and an open-air yoga platform. 888/409-8448;
www.lunalodge.com; doubles from $310, including meals.
Don’t Miss A plane ride into Sirena, the heart of Corcovado. 011-506/735-5353;
www.alfaromeoair.com.
Courchevel, France
The name of this alpine village in the Trois Vallées might well be French for "jet set." Even so, it’s as romantic as it is glitzy: the wooden chalets, picturesque churches, and mountain views are as much a draw as the designer boutiques, Michelin-starred restaurants, and nightclubs. With five enclaves, each named for its elevation, at 1,000, 1,300, 1,550, 1,650, and 1,850 meters, Courchevel gets pricier and more sophisticated the higher up you go.
Check In The new 34-room Hôtel Cheval Blanc is known as the Dior Hotel for its owner, LVMH boss Bernard Arnault, its on-site Givenchy Spa, and its Vuitton boutique. 33-4/79-00-50-50;
www.chevalblanc.com; doubles from $785.
Don’t Miss The toboggan run from 1,850 down to 1,550.
Eestancia La Paz, Argentina
Surrounded by gardens and lakes, this elegant 1830’s colonial-style mansion is decorated with period furniture and vintage photographs of historical figures. Count on condors flying above, allées of plane trees, endless rolling hills, and burbling streams—all ideal for exploring on horseback.
Check In 54-35/2549-2073;
www.estancialapaz.com; doubles from $170, including meals.
Don’t Miss Getting a polo lesson from a pro.
Suyan Camp, Tanzania
Set in private concessions bordering the Serengeti National Park, the new safari camp has five tents with king-size beds and en suite bathrooms. After a walking safari, cultural exchange with the Masai, and a night drive, settle in on a private veranda with a nightcap.
Check In www.asilialodges.com; doubles from $900, including meals.
Don’t Miss A bush dinner à deux under the stars.
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