We’re going to places we've never been before. Who’s with us?

We know our readers venture far and wide, and once you arrive at your destination it’s often the first-hand local knowledge that’s most interesting – people who know the stories behind the cities. So relax and let us tell you what we know of where you go.

When snow falls, the globally mobile head to the mountains – preferably by plane – but not every pilot has the stomach for the most-demanding runways in Europe. We hop to the Alps’ top ski locations to meet the airline and airport staff who keep the skiers in the skies.

Rocky but relaxed, this French-administered, Italian-influenced Mediterranean island is undergoing an awakening. Artisanal industries and unspoilt beaches – along with new transport connections – are bringing a grande armée of inquisitive Europeans to the home of Napoleon Bonaparte.

Removed from the bustle of city life, Zamalek has become a mainstay of the wandering wealthy. But the enclave’s architecture, cultural hotspots and green spaces make it a welcome hub for all.

The Portuguese island is shaking off its sleepy reputation to show that it’s much more than a sedate stop-off for cruising pensioners in search of a glass of fortified wine.

We meet the airlines, hoteliers and service stars worthy of celebration in our annual honorifics for the best in the world of travel.

From mouthwatering raclette and fireside spots to natural springs to soothe aching muscles and smart spas for ultimate relaxation, let our trusty skiers be your guides to the ultimate Alpine getaway.

Our senior editor’s journey from Louisiana to Texas takes in gumbo, drive-thru liquor stores, pink pistols and vast stretches of not very much at all. But there is life and soul to be found in the vastness and stories to be told over bottles of beer and games of eight ball. Did our senior editor find himself? It doesn’t really matter, because that’s never been the point when your eyes are fixed on the horizon.

Nothing epitomised the golden age of travel like the Orient Express. But with the venerable service now existing only as an upscale tourist attraction, anyone wanting to savour its classic itinerary has to catch a hotchpotch of connecting trains. And while a series of utilitarian carriages is no substitute for the opulent wagons of yore, at least one thing about the trip remains constant: life on board continues to enchant.

Our Big Interview Series this year is all about service, whether it’s a case of a mayor looking after their citizens or an airport CEO keeping passengers happy. Our six interviewees all provide eye-opening perspectives on everything from technology in hotel rooms to yachts on the open seas – and there’s even a troop of cycling Elvis lookalikes thrown in for good measure.

Whether it’s a scientific look at what jetlag does to our brains, a spiritual take on how pilgrimage can change your life or even the creation of a brand new country, we ask six people to share their stories on the theme of journeys.

Who knows what the year ahead might hold? Will, for instance, the next 12 months be the time when you finally make real those long-hazy dreams of starting a small shop, plotting out space for a countryside pension or jacking in the day job to start a farm or a beach bar? We hope so. In pondering such opportunities we’ve amassed a hit list of destinations; admire spas in Seoul, boats in the Baltic and a masterfully done hotel in Cobá, Mexico. We’ve also got a tree-shrouded hotel in the Thai forests, the beaches of northern Spain and a long-overlooked LA neighbourhood in which to set up shop. What follows is a rundown of 25 spots in which to work, unwind and seek new pastures. Enjoy.

It’s 05.00 and you’re wide awake – so don’t just lie there. Embrace your jetlag, spring out of bed and see the city as it opens its eyes to you. You’ll find that there’s a certain magic in the air before the day takes hold, when the streets are quiet, the piers peaceful and the waters inviting. So why not make the most of your irregular rhythms and seize the daybreak?

From French mansions resting atop ancient limestone cliffs to 500-year-old settings in South Tyrol, here we peek through the keyholes of boltholes that have stood the test of time and a few newer sanctuaries that look set to do the same. Whether you’re on a whistle-stop tour or a more languorous holiday, these are the places we recommend hanging your hat in the year ahead.

Whether you’re travelling to Panama to stir your appetite with a vibrant cocktail, indulging in freshly caught seafood in a central London location or keeping it simple in Calgary, we’ve got the bars, cafés and restaurants you’ll need to keep you happy during the year ahead.

No matter where you’re going, with these upstanding examples of the written word and gadgetry you won’t be in a rush to arrive. We start with suggestions for swifter trips; over the page you’ll find options for more elongated voyages.

Decades of uncertainty have kept this tropical island off travel itineraries. But its beguiling mix of colonial architecture, lush landscapes and a budding culinary scene have cemented its destiny as a destination on the up.

Bright colours, tempting textures and the best of the seasonal looks to see you through the year ahead.

There’s no such thing as the wrong weather – just the wrong outfit. Take our packing advice and make sure you’re so comfortable that your only concern will be getting people to notice how good you look.