James Taylor said it best, “At night the stars, they put on a show for free.” This summer, travel to one of these dark destinations to take time to stare up at the night sky, learn about constellations, and even catch a falling star.
Botswana: Each of the Belmond Safari lodges – Belmond Khwai River Lodge, Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge, and Belmond Eagle Island Lodge – allows guests the opportunity to experience the vast dome of Botswana’s uninterrupted night sky. Guests will learn how the local tribes used the stars for navigation while taking in the beauty of the local landscape.
Scotland: Great Scott! The UK is fast becoming a popular place to enjoy a clear, dark evening. Belmond Royal Scotsman, Scotland’s only luxury sleeper train, has announced bespoke excursions that take guests off the rails and into the wilds of Scotland. Among the options is stargazing in the Cairngorms of the Scottish Highlands, one of the darkest skies in Europe. Guests can explore the area with a certified astrologer who will introduce them to the constellations while they enjoy a late-night picnic.
New York City: The unlikeliest of stargazing spots may just provide the best perspective on the night. Head to The Chatwal to catch the famous Persides Meteor Shower from one of the hotel’s 14 open-air terraces. The annual summertime shower peaks the evening of August 12-13 with a predicted 50–75 meteors per hour, making it the most likely time you’ll see a shooting star in New York City. And if the city lights are just too bright, the stars around the block at Broadway’s famous theaters can fill the void.
California: Stargaze while you float at Napa Valley’s Solage Calistoga, a contemporary oasis with a spa that offers an evening open-air floating meditation called Aqua Vibrations. Guests sits in a mesh chair, partially submerged in the geothermal mineral pool (96 to 98 degrees), where they can gaze at the stars and moon.
Mexico: Bring the indoors outside in Mexico. Each of the 41 villas at Viceroy Riviera Maya comes with its own private moon shower. The luxurious space is a garden oasis surrounded by a bamboo fence and tropical plantings, with a dedicated space for keeping towels dry. Is there any better way to bathe than in nature under the stars?
The Hamptons: Anyone who has ever driven in the Hamptons knows how dark the night sky can be out east. Take in the stars at Shou Sugi Ban House, where each evening concludes with an outdoor fire circle to wind down with hot tea and live music. Retreat guests can also take part in fireside chats with occasional special guest speakers.