Travel Ideas to De-Stress From Awards Season: Amsterdam and More

Amid the hustle and bustle and constant highs and lows of the news cycle during awards season, sometimes an escape is the best option. Whether looking for a long weekend away or a lengthier adventure, embrace the many possibilities below ahead of Emmys FYC season.

South Caicos

Just 500 miles south of Miami is the tropical island of South Caicos, one of the smallest in the Turks and Caicos archipelago. There isn’t luxury shopping on the island, but instead small-scale fishing and boutiques, making it the perfect place for an exclusive, private getaway. A big plus: American Airlines just added a direct flight from Miami. The luxurious Sailrock Resort takes advantage of the stunning setting, offering privacy and exclusivity with individual beachfront villas, as well as everything from cycling and mixology classes to boating and tranquil spa treatments. https://sailrocksouthcaicos.com/

 Newport, Rhode Island

For New Yorkers, a four-hour drive could land you in Newport, Rhode Island. The Gardiner House is a boutique hotel upon Lee’s Wharf. For those feeling inspired by “A Complete Unknown,” it’s important to note the resort is only steps from where Bob Dylan’s performance at Newport Folk Festival took place. Tucked away in a waterfront oasis, the hotel overlooks Newport Harbor and the International Yacht Restoration School. There are 21 guest rooms and suites, a timeless Studio Bar and a signature Mediterranean restaurant, Flora, which seats 110 guests — usually a mix of locals and visitors. https://www.gardinerhouse.com/

 Amsterdam

Europe is never a bad idea. Only a seven-hour flight from New York (and direct, 10-hour flights from Los Angeles), the ambiance of Amsterdam alone will lift spirits at any time of the year. Plus, from the heart of Amsterdam, it’s easy to take day trips to Zaanse Schans, or Haarlem, two very popular stops. There’s also a great deal of riverboat cruises that depart from Amsterdam, including Viking’s trip down the Rhine — eight days with stops in Germany, France and Switzerland. And it’s adults only, if that’s your fancy. https://www.vikingrivercruises.com/

If staying in Amsterdam, both the Pulitzer and the Kimpton de Witt are centrally located, safe and cozy. Pulitzer stands out for its design and layout across 25 canal houses and each of the 225 guestrooms is individually designed. Meanwhile, Kimpton DeWitt is in the City Centre, around the corner from the Red Light District and neighboring the charming Jordaan neighborhood. A five-minute walk to Central Station means traveling by foot or bicycle couldn’t be easier. There’s also no better time to visit the Anne Frank House. https://www.pulitzeramsterdam.com/; https://www.kimptondewitthotel.com/

Local Luxury

For a quick escape, don’t forget the many gems in California. Sonoma, California, part of wine country, has some of the best art galleries in the U.S. The Lodge at Sonoma is one option for a warm, welcoming stay — and nightly wine tasting and fireside snacks. The quiet, yet quaint county is located steps away from the Town Square and is just 30 miles north of San Francisco. https://www.thelodgeatsonoma.com/

For those looking for a different type of relaxation, head just 80 miles outside of Los Angeles to Murrieta Hot Springs Resort. Day passes are available, but you’ll likely want to stay once you glance at the mountainous backdrop and experience the geothermal wonderland. With dozens of water features, the rooms also include a medically curated, complimentary sleep tray. Plus, overnight guests get 24-hour access to the hot spring pools. Sound baths and aqua yoga are also available.

For New Yorkers, not many local spots beat Montauk. To explore the 2,000-foot-long beach on Long Island, Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa is the perfect East Coast luxury getaway. In addition to the private beach, guests can also experience marine-based therapy in the BathHouse and Seawater Spa. In the colder months, outside dining inside a heated igloo invites guests to still enjoy the starry sky while indulging in specially curated food and drinks. https://www.gurneysresorts.com/montauk