A birthday is a birthday, until it’s a biggie, a number that has a certain magic. They are turning points, wake up calls; think ages 21, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70 and 80. These digits bring excitement, accountability and for some maybe even fear. Whatever emotions you feel, there’s only thing to do, mark the moment with memories. Here’s where to go to do just that.
21: Let the liquor flow, you’re legal!
Turning 21 is huge. You can officially party like you got just one night to do it. Make your way to Miami. There’s no shortage of live music, good eats and Happy Hours. Any time is drinking time. Parade like a peacock on Ocean Avenue. See and be seen. Spend that birthday cash shopping and when you’ve worked up a sweat from doing so, you know it’s time to hit the beach. Since it’s the big 2-1, splurge, treat yourself like the star you are and stay at The Biltmore Hotel.
30: Scale the peaks in Peru
You’re ready for a multi-day trek on the Inca Trail, destination Machu Picchu. Claim victory when you reach the summit. Though you’re “roughing it,” don’t give up luxury. Glamp at Peru Ecocamp, or the five-star Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel, at the foot of Machu Picchu and a stone’s throw away from the Vilcanota River.
40: Go hard in the Big Easy
New Orleans is made for celebrations. You can start your own parade. Walk down the streets holding your favorite cocktail while brass bands surround you and put you at the center of your own party. New Orleans has live music every night all across the city. The party only stops when you do. If you want to stay in a hotel that is just as entertaining and unique as NOLA itself, check into The Marquee. You’re in for all sorts of surprises and innovation. Of course there’s a rooftop pool and speakeasy.
50: Seek serenity
Montego Bay is enjoying a renaissance of sorts; it’s the ideal spot to chill. The new S Hotel is the place to make your haven away from home. It’s stylish with fantastic art everywhere. It’s on the beloved beach Doctor’s Cave, within walking distance to entertainment and restaurants, though the hotel has great cuisine. Concierge guests can hang out at the Sky Deck Bar and lounge with the rooftop infinity pool. You’ll likely be most delighted with the Irie Baths and Spa, with its subterranean plunge pools where temperatures vary, much like ancient baths. Let the kinetic energy revive you. Pick among an array of spa treatments.
60: Get back to simplicity
Make like a cowboy or cowgirl at Silvies Valley Ranch, in Silvies, Oregon. This ranch in frontier Oregon is unspoiled. You can herd goats, take cattle drives, golf, shoot on the range, hang out at the lake, fish, hike, bike, or simply relax in the luxurious, 17,000 square foot Rocking Heart Spa. This home on the range is a working ranch, unlike any other, remote, peaceful with luxurious accommodations, excellent cuisine and bar that boasts more than 100 different whiskies. There is a goat caddie program and golf packages. Reconnect with Mother Nature.
70: Pick Panama
Put Panama City on your radar for your seventh decade. It’s one of Latin America’s most thriving, cosmopolitan destinations. While in the evening you can dine at Michelin star restaurants and hang out on rooftop lounges in historic Casco Viejo, days are for touring the Panama Canal, and walks through the Gamboa Rainforest. For respite, there’s The Westin Playa Bonita, just outside of Panama City, with oceanfront swimming pools, spa and international restaurants.
80: Regale yourself like royalty
You have years of experience, wisdom; you are a king or queen. Why not celebrate at the Kilkea Castle in County Kildare, Ireland? Step into history with all the luxury turning 80 deserves. The fortress was built in 1880 and is suited for “mature” guests, with elevators, on location dining options, spa treatments, beautiful scenery, golf, fishing, a lazy river and more.