top ten travel destinations 2023

Best in Travel 2023: Best countries to visit

Nov 16, 2022 • 2 min read

Lonely Planet reveals its 2023 list of Best in Travel.

Lonely Planet has revealed its annual list of Best in Travel   with a roster of 30 top destinations recommended to visit in 2023 

You’ll find a range of destinations and experiences expertly picked to help you consider places you may have not thought of for reasons you haven’t considered. The best way to experience all of our top destinations is by heading to our main page of  Best in Travel 2023 . 

In years past, we’ve sorted our list by the best countries, best regions and best cities to visit.  

But as travel has rebounded, we noticed people are craving more meaningful experiences and are being much more intentional with how they select the places they want to visit. With that in mind, we’ve reimagined our list, with our top destinations sorted not by country, region or city, but by the best type of trip to be had in each place.

 Whether you're looking for the best destinations to eat,  an adventurous new journey, an under-the-radar pick to unwind, or to connect to a buzzing new city, you’ll find something to fuel your wanderlust on this list. 

 Local perspectives, itineraries and recommendations are at the heart of each destination to help you imagine and plan a memorable trip. 

We understand some people might miss the way we’ve sorted them in the past. So here’s a look at the countries that made our list for 2023. 

2023 Best in Travel countries

El Salvador

South Africa

The best way to experience our entire list of the places to travel in 2023  is through our main Best in Travel page. 

Past winners for best countries 2022

And if you’re curious about who the winners were in 2022, the winners for the category of best countries were:

Cook Islands

This article was first published November 2022 and updated November 2022

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The Rough Guide to the best travel destinations in 2023

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written by Joanne Owen

updated 19.12.2022

Our recent 2023 travel survey asked you to share where you'd most love to visit in 2023. As well as quizzing you, our readers, we also picked the brains of Rough Guides’ editors and our local travel experts around the world, asking “Where’s best to visit in 2023?” Now all the results are in, we’re excited to bring you our definitive list (drumroll, please): The A-Z of the 23 best travel destinations for 2023.

1. Antarctica

2. berlin, germany — one the best travel destinations in 2023, 3. bohol island, the philippines, 4. cordoba, argentina, 5. dominica, nature island of the caribbean, 6. fes, morocco, 7. kanazawa, japan, 8. korčula, croatia, 9. leeds, yorkshire, 10. ljubljana, slovenia.

• 11. Mekong Delta, Vietnam

12. Naples, Italy

13. northern cape, south africa.

• 14. Oaxaca, Mexico

15. Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica

16. pembrokeshire, wales, 17. pensacola, florida, 18. scottish highlands, scotland, 19. sydney, australia.

• 20. Torres del Paine, Patagonia, Chile

21. Toulouse, France

22. wellington, new zealand.

• 23. Zagori, Greece

Best for bucket list chasers and wildlife-watchers

Kicking off in especially aspirational style, we were struck by the prominence of Antarctica as one of your dream destinations for 2023. As a result, we had to include it in our run-down of the best places to visit in 2023.

It goes without saying that you can’t just rock up to Antarctica. So, we recommend taking a look at our tailor-made trip that combines southern Argentina with a four-night cruise to Antarctica . 

This awe-inspiring experience begins in Buenos Aires . After enjoying a few nights in El Calafate and Ushuaia , you'll set sail for four nights in the Antarctic.

Expert guides aboard your boat will give exhilarating talks on landscape and wildlife. Expect to see migrating whales, penguins, and seals as you visit Cape Horn, and cruise the Drake Passage to King George Island.

Make the most of your time in Antarctica

• Bring lots of layers and decent gloves for your cruise. Having your own binoculars is also recommended.
• From Ushuaia, book a guided trip to walk the thrilling Tierra del Fuego nature trails to the Emerald Lagoon.
• If you plan to spend longer in the region, read up on Ushuaia , and the best travel experiences in Argentina .
• Explore our Antarctica itinerary and talk to a local expert to make it 100% yours.
• Where to stay

You’ll stay aboard a boat during your cruise (obvs), so here are some places to stay in Ushuaia before and after your trip. Being the world’s most southerly city, it's known as the End of the World.

• Best for rustic charm: Cabañas Bosque Del Faldeo . This lovely lodge with a garden is close to lots of sights.
• Best for groups and families: Casa Magallanes . Three bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a city-view patio.
• Best for couples: Hotel Canal Beagle . Modern, stylish, with a pool and wellness spa.

Discover more places to stay in Ushuaia .

Antarctica — one of the best travel destinations in 2023, and one of your 2023 dream destinations © Shutterstock

Best for culture, clubbing and arty city breaks

There are plenty of reasons you voted cosmopolitan, dynamic Berlin one of the coolest cities in the world . It boasts crazy nightlight, incredible museums, and a cutting-edge art scene unlike anywhere else on earth.

Talking of edgy art, the world-renowned European Month of Photography celebrates its tenth anniversary in Berlin in March 2023 — all the more reason to visit if you're into art and culture.

At once gritty and glamorous, we're big fans of Berlin's Kreuzberg-Friedrichshain area, not least for its cafés, bars, markets and independent clothes shops.

Make the most of your time in Berlin

• Into urban culture? Take a tour of Berlin's street art .
• Read up on the best things to do in Berlin , and discover fab things you can do in Berlin for free .
• Get yourself a Mini Rough Guide to Berlin .
• Like to dig deeper into the places you visit? Check out this in-depth tour of Berlin and Potsdam . Or how about a culture-focused Capitals of Europe trip that covers Berlin, Prague, Vienna, and more?

Where to stay in Berlin

• Best for cool couples: Eastern & Western Comfort Hotelboat . Cosy cabin rooms moored on the River Spree.
• Best for budget travellers: Die Fabrik baxpax Hotel . Cool, comfy, and near East Side Gallery and Görlitzer Park.
• Best for 5-star luxury: Hotel Adlon . This Brandenburg Gate legend has a double Michelin-star restaurant.

Browse more places to stay in Berlin .

Into art and culture? Berlin is one of the best travel destinations for 2023 © canadastock/Shutterstock

Best for adventure, wildlife and out-of-this-world beaches

Part of the Visayas — the central island group of the Philippines — beautiful Bohol is known for its paradisiacal beaches and lush forests.

As such, it's a fabulous destination for travellers who want to spice up a blissful beach break with wildlife-watching and adventure activities. Bohol and its 75 islets sure pack a lot into its splendid landmass.

Located in the centre of the island, the UNESCO World Heritage listed Chocolate Hills are a must-see. Here, over 1,000 near-identical, symmetrical mounds represent one of the Philippines’ most iconic sights. They're also a dream to hike.

Into animals? Head to the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary to see the world’s smallest primates in a swathe of protected forest. Meanwhile, the marine life around Panglao Island presents dazzling snorkelling and diving experiences.

Make the most of your time on Bohol Island.

• Board a traditional Banca boat to enjoy a turtle and dolphin-watching trip around Balicasag and Virgin Island.
• Cruise the Loboc River to watch wildlife, see villages and enjoy a gourmet local lunch.
• Read up on the best things to do on Bohol Island , and read The Rough Guide to the Philippines .
• Visit Bohol as part of an immersive trip to the Visayas .
• Want to travel better? Discover the best eco-friendly resorts in the Philippines .

Where to stay on Bohol Island

• Best for budget travellers: Adriana's Place . Glorious grounds, great food; dorms and bungalows available.
• Best for honeymooners: Epic Suites by Bohol Social Club . Stunningly-sited, with sea views and private pools.
• Best for home comforts: Villa 301 B&B . Cosy, quaint and quiet, with top home-cooked breakfasts.

Browse more places to stay on Bohol Island in the Philippines .

Bohol Island is a wonder for wildlife-watchers © Shutterstock

Best for arty culture, gaucho culture and German culture...

With a dynamic vibe coming courtesy of its student population, Cordoba — Argentina's second city — is emerging from the shadow of  Buenos Aires .

Undeniably vibrant, it's an old-meets-new kinda place. Its well-preserved microcentro is packed with colonial-era churches, monasteries, and municipal buildings, with the Centro Cultural Córdoba adding modern architectural flair.

Beyond its capital, the region of Cordoba is ripe for world-class horse-riding adventures. For example, you can experience gaucho culture at the Anglo-Argentine-owned  Estancia Los Potreros ranch.

For something entirely different — and unexpected — head to kitsch Villa General Belgrano. With streets lined by Alpine-style buildings, and the aroma of sausages, sauerkraut and strudel wafting from restaurants, you'll be forgiven for thinking you haven't been transported to Munich.

And the reason? Villa General Belgrano was founded in the 1940s by survivors of the Graf Spree, a Nazi battleship that sank off the coast of Argentina in World War Two.

Make the most of your time in Cordoba

• Head to the hills for a horseback riding trip with an authentic Argentinian asado barbecue.
• Discover why Cordoba is Argentina's most underrated region .
• Arm yourself with the picture-packed Insight Guide Argentina .
• For country-wide inspiration, browse our Argentina itineraries .

Where to stay in Cordoba

• Best for couples: Caseros 248 Hotel . Modern, spacious and close to attractions.
• Best for families: AT Suites . Self-catering apartments, with an on-site pool.
• Best for four-star comfort: Amérian Cordoba Park Hotel . Slick service and good food in downtown Cordoba.

Find more places to stay in Argentina's Cordoba .

Cordoba, Argentina © Shutterstock

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Best for adventure, exhilaration and soulful inspiration

Whether you reach dramatic Dominica by air or sea, it's clear why the region's indigenous Kalinago named the island  Wai'tukubuli  — tall is her body. The majestic peaks of Dominica's volcanic, forested mountains are, quite simply, awe-inspiring. 

It's also clear why Dominica is known as the Nature Island of the Caribbean, and deeply rewarding for lovers of outdoor adventures, not least if you're a diver, or opt to walk the  Waitukubuli Trail . Split into 14 segments, the Caribbean's first long-distance walking network showcases Dominica's heritage, culture, and wild beauty in one fell swoop. The island's beaches aren't half bad, either.

To experience stacks of spectacular nature in one place, head to the heights of Laudat — Dominica's highest village. Here you can soak up the misty splendour of  Freshwater Lake  and Boeri Lake , and join the trail-head for Dominica's legendary  Boiling Lake hike — you'll need a guide for this. And all these soul-stirrers sit within the UNESCO designated Morne Trois Pitons National Park. 

Alongside being an exceptional destination for nature and adventure lovers, Dominica is also a place to gain a deeper understanding of Caribbean history and culture. For example, the  Kalinago Barana Autê  shares the history and contemporary culture of the island’s indigenous Kalinago community.

And in good news for merry-makers, 2023 will see Mas Dominik — Dominica’s carnival — back to its exuberant full-scale incarnation for the first time since the pandemic. It run from 14th January, with six weeks of "Mas an Lawi" (Mas in the street) events culminating on 22nd February.

Make the most of your time in Dominica

• Be exhilarated by Dominica's natural beauty on a Secret Waterfall Canyoning Experience .
• Dominica is the only place in the world where sperm whales are resident year-round, so go whale-watching .
• Head to Sunset Bay Club to enjoy lobster of a lifetime. This beach-front restaurant is also a small resort.
• Be inspired by tales of nurture from the Nature Island .
• Discover why Dominica breaks the Caribbean mould .

Where to stay in Dominica

• Best for beachfront bliss: Picard Beach Cottages . Cute, well-equipped cabins with on-site whale-watching.
• Best for chic sustainability: Sea Cliff Eco Cottages . Welcoming, stylish, and close to vibrant Calibishie.
• Best for back-to-nature luxury: Jungle Bay . Gorgeous grounds and breath-taking views over the south coast.

Discover more places to stay in Dominica .

Stairway to hiking heaven — Dominica's Boiling Lake hike © Shutterstock

Best for foodies and culture vultures

The most complete medieval city of the Arab world, Fes ' old town feels magically suspended between the Middle Ages and the modern world.

With some 9000 alleys buzzing with living history and traders, it's a place to lose — and find — yourself in.

The oldest part of the city, walled Fes El-Bali, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its mosques, medersas and fondouks, plus a mile-long labyrinth of souks, there are enough sights here to warrant several days exploration.

Fes is also a feast for the senses. Head to Souk el Attarine to savour the aroma of spices, herbs, and incense, and buy traditional Moroccan crafts. Given that some traders are set up in beautiful old mansions, you'll most likely find yourself exploring a regal riad while shopping.

If that wasn't enough, Fes is also the culinary capital of Morocco. A place to feast on some of the country's best eating and drinking experiences.

While wandering Fes El-Bali, try street-stall snacks like bisara soup, or jben, an acidic white goat’s cheese. Fes is also the home of pastilla — a succulent pigeon or chicken pie dusted with sugar and cinnamon.

Make the most of your time in Fes 

• Feast on Fes' food and culture on a cookery class experience .
• Uncover the imperial cities of Morocco — including Fes — on an immersive trip.
• Read up on the best markets in Morocco .
• Plan a bigger trip with The Rough Guide to Morocco .

Where to stay in Fes

• Best for special occasions: Riad Authentic Palace & Spa . Five-star splendour and service in the old town.
• Best for foodies: Riad Tahyra . A boutique beauty where chefs often invite guests into the kitchen.
• Best for families: Riad Laayoun . Relaxed, rather reasonable and very friendly.

Find more places to stay in Fes Morocco.

Fes, Morocco — a feast for the senses © Shutterstock

Best for magical gardens, galleries and unique history

With a long, rich history, Kanazawa's exquisitely preserved historic districts exude stepped-back-in-time magic.

The dazzling jewel in the city's crown is Kenrokuen Garden, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan . Designed to enchant in every season — snow-shrouded boughs in winter, cherry blossom in spring, blazing leaves in autumn — it's been stunning visitors for over two centuries.

If you’re interested in learning about Kanazawa’s samurai history, explore Nagamachi District on foot. Located just beyond Kanazawa Castle, here you can visit the restored residence of one of Kanazawa’s most influential samurais, Nomura Denbei Nobusada, 

History buffs will also want to head to Higashi Chaya District, where old geisha houses sit centre stage.

But Kanazawa isn't only about the past. Affectionately known as “Little Kyoto”, the city also boasts modern buzz. For example, the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art showcases a programme of exciting exhibitions.

Meanwhile, foodies will be in seventh heaven in Omicho Market — expect some of the freshest, finest fish and seafood in the region.

Make the most of your time in Kanazawa

• Get to know Kanazawa through the eyes of a learned local resident.
• Love your grub? Take a personalised food-themed walking tour with a local guide.
• Read up on the rise of Japan's Little Kyoto and The Rough Guide to Japan .
• Into food and culture? Take an extended culinary tour of Japan that takes in Kanazawa.

Where to stay in Kanazawa

• Best for 5-star finery: Kanazawa Hakuchoro Hotel Sanraku . Elegant tea lounges, a hot spring bath, castle views.
• Best for indie travellers: B&B Mikawa Kanazawa Fish Harbour . This tiny trad-style house offers free bikes.
• Best for couples: Zaimoku-an . Villa-style living and space in a top location.

Explore more places to stay in Kanazawa Japan .

Kenrokuen Garden. Kanazawa, Japan © Shutterstock

Best for wine, food, and fabulous family-friendly beaches

With a magnificent Old Town, safe and scenic out-of-town-beaches, and excellent, unstuffy restaurants, the laid-back Croatian island of Korčula  sure ticks lots of boxes.

As a result of this diversity, and an upturn in multi-generational holidays, Korčula earned a place in our best travel destinations in 2023. In short, if you're in the market for a sun-soaked break that'll keep everyone happy, Korčula has your name on it, your kids' names on it, and your granny's name on it.

The soft sand bays and quiet coves on the island's southern coast are the perfect place for little ones to learn to swim. And, given the calmness of the Adriatic around these parts, Korčula is also the ideal place for first-time sailors to take the plunge.

Into nature? Korčula is one of the greenest Adriatic islands, with an abundance of Aleppo pines, olive groves, and rolling vineyards. The latter of which are responsible for another reason to visit Korčula — world-class wine, especially dry whites like Pošip.

Make the most of your time on Korčula

• Little ones will adore viewing marine-life from a semi-submersible boat .
• Love the water and want to see more than one island? Consider booking a Croatian sailing trip , and arm yourself with our practical guide to island-hopping in Croatia .
• Read up on the top Croatian islands for getaways (psst — it includes the idyllic islet of Proizd, reached by water taxi from Vela Luka on Korčula).
• Keen to know more about Croatia? The full Rough Guide to Croatia has you covered, plus there's a Mini Rough Guide for shorter breaks.

Where to stay in Korčula

• Best for couples: Aminess Korcula Heritage Hotel . This quay-front gem oozes Old Town charm.
• Best for families: Villa Stone House Poplat . Boasts a pool, private beach and variously-sized villas.
• Best for budget travellers: Dragan's Den Hostel . Friendly, with dorms and private rooms.

Find more places to stay on Korčula Croatia .

Korcula's medieval Old Town, Croatia © Shutterstock

Best for gourmands, gallery-lovers and theatre fans

When it came to the UK, including Leeds in our best travel destinations to visit in 2023 was a no-brainer. Firstly, Leeds is the UK City of Culture in 2023 . Secondly, Yorkshire was one of your top UK regions for 2023 staycations.

Leeds is home to  Opera North (the only nationally recognised UK opera company outside London), Leeds Grand Theatre and  Northern Ballet – lovers of live performance are spoiled for choice.

Then there's the magnificent City Varieties Music Hall , which holds a Guinness World Record as the nation’s longest-running music hall. And, being the nation’s last gas-lit cinema, we can't not mention the  Hyde Park Picture House .

Meanwhile, Leeds Art Gallery presents a diverse collection of work to suit all tastes, from Francis Bacon paintings, to Grayson Perry sculptures and Damian Hirst installations.

If all that art and culture leaves you feeling hungry, fear not — Leeds isn't known as the "Foodie Capital of the North" for nothing. Kirkgate Market — well worth visiting for a wander in its own right — now boasts a refurbished food hall that'll have you struggling to pick your lunch.

Come May, Leeds plays host to the UK's first independent food festival, Leeds Indie Food . Expect a celebration of fresh fare from local growers and creators, plus global innovators drawn to the city's embracing of culinary culture.

Make the most of your time in Leeds

• Book a local food tour  to experience why Leeds is the foodie capital of the north .
• Travelling with kids or a group? Take a self-guided treasure hunt tour of Leeds.
• Into the unusual? Enjoy an urban axe-throwing experience .
• Read up on where to find culture around every corner of Leeds , and find out how to love Leeds for longer

Where to stay in Leeds

• Best for 5-star treats: Dakota Leeds . Stylish rooms, plus an on-site bar and great grill restaurant.
• Best for indie couples: The Chambers . Boutique apartments in a well restored turn-of-the-century residence.
• Best for romantic escapes: Hinsley Hall . 1.5 miles from the centre, this listed building has acres of grounds.

Check out more places to stay in Leeds .

As 2023 UK City of Culture, Leeds had to be one of our best travel destinations in 2023 © Prawrawee Lim/Shutterstock

Best for enchanting scenery and sustainable travel

Green and clean, Slovenian capital Ljubljana — a place you voted one of the most beautiful countries in the world — has an abundance of scenic charm. Caressing the Ljubljanica river and overlooked by a castle, cities don’t come much more picturesque. 

What’s more, Ljubljana has the EU’s biggest pedestrianised area, plenty of parks to stroll in, and is a beautiful base from which to visit a host of Slovenian attractions. 

Under an hour from the capital,  Lake Bled  is a must-visit. A fairy tale island juts from its expanse of clear water, with a cliff-top castle and mountain backdrop adding to the magic. It's also at the forefront of sustainable travel practices — arguably Europe's greenest destination .

Postojna Caves in  southwest Slovenia is another unmissable day-trip. On arrival, you’ll take a train into a sublime subterranean world, with a show-stopping, cathedral-like chamber at journey's end.

More rocky wonders await at sixteenth-century Predjama Castle. Built into elevated cave entrance in the heart of an unforgettable karst landscape, it defies the imagination, and everything you assumed about engineering. 

Meanwhile, beyond its awe-inspiring interior, Slovenia’s coastline is every bit as beautiful, and diverse with it . From picturesque Piran, to the spa town of Portorož, expect atmospheric Old Towns with Venetian flair, flavour and “I can't wait to come back” allure.

Make the most of your time in Ljubljana

• Book a day trip to Lake Bled, Postojna Caves and Predjama Castle .
• Interested in nature and the environment? Find out why there’s a buzz about Slovenia’s bee tourism . 
• To experience Slovenia in all its majesty, book a customisable treasures of Slovenia trip .  
• Read our beginners guide to Ljubljana and The Rough Guide to Slovenia . 
• Looking to take an early break in 2023? Find out what to expect from exploring Slovenia in spring .

Where to stay in Ljubljana

• Best for old time charm: Grand Hotel Union Eurostars . Art Nouveau style in the heart of the city.
• Best for families: Boutique Hotel Asteria . Homely vibes, with triple and quad rooms available.
• Best for budget travellers: Boutique Hostel Angel . Quiet and cosy, with personal sleeping capsules.

Look at more places to stay in Ljubljana Slovenia .

Lake Bled, Slovenia — a clean, green dream of a destination © Alberto Loyo/Shutterstock

11. Mekong Delta, Vietnam

Best for tropical lushness and cultural immersion.

Emerald paddy fields. Floating markets dappling lush canals. Expansive green horizons speckled with coconut trees. Cone-hatted farmers working the land. The Mekong Delta presents some of Vietnam’s most iconic images, and saw you vote it one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam .

A highlight here is visiting the floating markets and fruit orchards around Can Tho. There’s no better way to soak up the region’s culture while also marvelling at its maze of waterways and mangrove forests. 

Taking a ferry to An Binh Island is another unforgettable experience. With a landscape that represents the delta in miniature, it has its own floating market. And, with many families offer rewarding homestays, it's a wonderful place to try some of the best Vietnamese food — eating it, and cooking it.

You’ll also want to visit the Khmer pagodas around Tra Vinh. Here over 100 Buddhist temples serve not only as places of worship, but as a testament to the artistry and extraordinary craftsmanship of the Khmer people.

Make the most of your time in the Mekong Delta

• Discover how to go beyond the tourist trail in Vietnam , and read up on the mighty Mekong River .
• Interested in a bigger trip around the region? Read the Rough Guides to Vietnam and Cambodia .
• To take the hassle out of planning, explore our fully-customisable, tailor-made trips to Vietnam .

Where to stay in the Mekong Delta

• Best for nature-lovers: Mekong Lodge Resort . Peaceful, pretty riverfront bungalows surrounded by gardens.
• Best for foodie couples: Phuong Thao Homestay . Close to the An Binh ferry, with a pool and cooking classes.
• Best for families: Mai Binh Phuong Bungalow . Near Long Beach, this has an outdoor pool, garden and terrace.

Read up on more places to stay in Vietnam's Mekong Delta .

Mekong Delta, Vietnam © Shutterstock

Best for cracking culture, heady heritage, island excursions, and perfect pizza

Like its Mount Vesuvius backdrop, Naples is firecracker of a destination. From the depths of its subterranean caves, to its erotic ancient art, the city smoulders with ravishing, rough-round-the-edges appeal.

Visible from just about everywhere in the Bay of Naples, visiting Mount Vesuvius is one of the very best things to do in the region. It's dominated the lives of residents since AD 79, when it first erupted and buried the towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum. You'll want to visit both of these unique ancient heritage sites during your trip.

On the subject of ancient attractions, Naples' National Archaeological Museum has an exceptional collection of mosaics and classical sculptures. That said, its main allures are in the Gabinetto Segretto (Secret Room), which displays paintings and sculptures from the brothels, baths and bars of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

What's more, with the Amalfi Coast on its doorstop, and glamorous islands easily accessed from its bay, Naples makes a great base for beach-lovers.

For example, just over an hour by train from Naples, the cliff-top coastal town of Sorrento is a maze of medieval alleys and piazzas, with plenty of stunning sea-front restaurants to dine in. Sorrento also happens to be one of the most beautiful places in Italy .

Meanwhile, back in town, Naples lays claim to being the birthplace of pizza. 

Make the most of your time in Naples

• Visit the ruins of Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius on a full-day tour .
• Go underground to explore the history of Naples on a unique subterranean tour .
• Discover unusual things to do in Naples , and read up on the best pizza joints in Naples .
• Get yourself a guidebook to Naples and the Amalfi Coast .

Where to stay in Naples

• Best for splashing out in style: Grand Hotel Parker's . Live la dolce vita at this luxurious bay-view establishment.
• Best for couples: Spanish Palace Rooms . A beautiful B&B in an 18th-century building.
• Best for families: Case Così Apartments . Modern, well-equipped apartments and suites.

Discover more places to stay in Naples Italy .

Old Town, Naples © Shutterstock

Best for off-the-beaten-track adventures and wildlife

The biggest and most dispersed of South Africa’s provinces, the Northern Cape is also one of its least visited regions — good news for those of you who like to go your own way.

Boasting a landscape of dramatic red dunes, South Africa’s longest river, and desert miracles in the form of Namaqualand’s flower carpets, it’s a place to marvel at nature.

Talking of which, landscapes don’t get much more marvellous than Richtersveld Transfrontier Park. Tucked in a loop of the Orange River, it’s the world’s only arid biodiversity hotspot, and home to almost 5000 plant species.

Famed for its endemic halfmensboom (“half-man”) tree, the park is also known for klipspringer antelopes, leopards and wild cats.

Nature-lovers will also want to experience the mighty Aukoerebis waterfalls — South Africa’s largest — in the Augrabies Falls National Park. It plummets sixty metres to create the creating the earth-shattering noise that gives them their name — Aukoerebis means "the place of great noise" in the Khoisan language.

Make the most of your time in the Northern Cape

• Need more convincing? Discover why you should choose the Northern Cape for your South African holiday .
• Read up on how to experience the Northern Cape off the beaten track .
• Into animals? Get The Rough Guide to the Game Parks of South Africa .
• For more inspiration, take a look at our suggested South Africa itineraries .

Where to stay in the Northern Cape

• Best for couples: Boutique Guesthouse Hanover . A welcoming, comfortable stop-off.
• Best for food and wine: Bezalel Wine & Brandy Estate . Friendly hosts, superb surroundings, and top tastings.
• Best for safari stop-offs: Kalahari Lion's Rest . Ideal if you're visiting Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.

Find more places to stay in South Africa's Northern Cape .

Namaqualand, South Africa © Marie-Anne AbersonM/Shutterstock

14. Oaxaca, Mexico

Best for mixing mountains, culture and blissful beach-life.

Exhilarating fiestas. A cosmopolitan capital. Indigenous villages. Forested hillsides, and Pacific beaches that range from peaceful backwaters to established resorts. There’s no question that the state of Oaxaca is one of the most enticing destinations in Mexico .

Oaxaca city is the region’s prime destination, attracting visitors from Mexico City to its markets, craft stalls, magnificent Baroque architecture, and gallery-rich walkways. 

Nearby, the Zapotec and Mixtec sites at Monte Albán, Yagul and Mitla might be less known than their counterparts in central and eastern Mexico, but they’re every bit as impressive. What’s more, fewer crowds make for a more rewarding experience. 

Meanwhile, down on the coast,  Puerto Escondido attracts surfers, with lesser-visited beaches around Puerto Ángel boasting something of an alternative vibe.

Make the most of your time in Oaxaca

• Into food? Take a traditional Oaxacan cooking class with a market visit.
• Want to learn about the region's ancient history? Take a trip to Monte Alban to discover Zapotec culture.
• Our Amazing Mexico trip includes an immersive few days in Oaxaca, along with Mexico City and Mayan gems.
• Want to mix Mexico City, Teotihuacan, Oaxaca City and the Yucatan? See our Explore Central Mexico itinerary.
• Discover more cool places to visit in Mexico , and get yourself a Rough Guide to Mexico .

Where to stay in Oaxaca

• Best for couples: Casa Joseph Zicatela . An adults-only 5-star steps from Zicatela Beach.
• Best for outdoor activities: Cabañas Rancho Viejo . Free bikes, mountain views and top hiking.
• Best for beachfront bliss: Un Sueño Cabañas del Pacífico . Cute cabanas on a stunning beach.

Discover more places to stay in Oaxaca Mexico .

Church of Santo Domingo de Guzman in Oaxaca, Mexico © Shutterstock

Best for wildlife, nature, sustainable travel and a 2023 solar eclipse

Home to pristine rainforests, majestic volcanoes, tangled mangroves, and stunning beaches lapped by both the Pacific and Caribbean Oceans, exuberant Costa Rica exudes life at every turn.

One of the world’s most biodiverse countries, this Central American stunner has been blazing the trail for responsible travel for decades. Alongside its exceptional eco lodges and community-minded tourism projects, the country exudes its  pura vida  (“pure living”) ethos from every town, village, cloud forest and jungle.

One the best places to experience Costa Rica’s natural and wildlife wonders is on the Osa Peninsula in the southern province of Puntarenas. Here the  Parque Nacional Corcovado is one of Costa Rica’s best walking destinations, and among its most biodiverse regions. 

Also one of the most beautiful national parks in Costa Rica , the Corcovado reserve is home to many of the world's most endangered and spectacular mammals, including tapirs and jaguars. 

If you need another reason to visit this year, it's worth knowing that on 14th October 2023, you'll be able to see an annular solar eclipse in Costa Rica. This is when the moon covers the sun's centre, leaving a “ring of fire” (annulus) around the moon.

Awesome wildlife and landscapes aside, this stellar event secured Costa Rica's spot as one of the best travel destinations in 2023.

Make the most of your time in the Osa Peninsula

• Explore the jungles of the Tamandua nature reserve on a half-day trip with a guide.
• Book a Costa Rica eco-adventure tour that kicks off in the Osa Peninsula, or explore the wild south . 
• Discover more of the best places to visit in Costa Rica , and read up on the best hikes in Costa Rica .
• Read The Rough Guide to Costs Rica for in-depth detail on the whole country.

Where to stay in Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica

• Best for mountain magic: Santa Juana Lodge . Stunningly sited, with a bounty of birds, waterfalls and walks.
• Best for eco beach-life: La Leona Eco Lodge . Cute candle lit beach cabins near Corcovado National Park.
• Best for indie nature-lovers: Tico Tico Villas . Adults only, and near Manuel Antonio National Park.

Discover more places to stay in Costa Rica's Puntarenas province .

The Osa Peninsula's Corcovado National Park is a must-visit for wildlife-lovers © Shutterstock

Best for beautiful beaches, epic coastal walks, family fun and responsible travel

Nestled in  Wales’ most south-westerly corner, and surrounded by the mighty Atlantic on three sides, Pembrokeshire is a jaw-droppingly scenic, family-friendly destination. A place where natural beauty, ancient history, elite outdoor adventures, and fun family attractions await. 

The county’s beaches are breath-taking, with Caribbean-esque Barafundle Bay often cited as being among the world’s best.  

Then there’s the internationally renowned Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, the bird-rich islands of Skomer, Skokholm and Grassholm, and exhilarating kayaking, hiking and coasteering trips. Fun fact: Pembrokeshire is the birthplace of coasteering.

The county is also the perfect place to travel more responsibly. In fact, Wales as a whole has long been leading the way when it comes to responsible travel. This beautiful, welcoming land offers lots of practical ways to travel better , for every type of traveller .

Make the most of your time in Pembrokeshire

• Read up on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path , and get the Pocket Rough Guide to Pembrokeshire .
• Want to travel better? Discover eco-friendly holidays to enjoy in Wales , and download the FREE Rough Guide to Responsible Wales .
• Travelling further afield? Find out about  places in Wales you’re probably never heard of , and get The Rough Guide to Wales .

Where to stay in Pembrokeshire

• Best for foodies: The Grove . An 18th-century country house surrounded by meadows.
• Best for majestic views: Roch Castle . A 12th-century stunner on a rocky outcrop overlooking St Brides Bay.
• Best for families: Timber Hill Self Catering Cedar Lodges . Spacious, scenic and close to beaches.

Discover more places to stay in Pembrokeshire Wales .

Tenby Harbour, Pembrokeshire, Wales © Billy Stock/Shutterstock

Best for laidback vacations and family fun in the sun

From Miami and Orlando, to Key West and the Everglades, Florida's allure can't be denied. But, given that so many of you expressed a strong desire to escape to pastures new in 2023 , we wanted to highlight an alternate area of the Sunshine State. Namely, Pensacola.

With a growing reputation as a place that'll keep the whole family happy, it's a top destination if you want to chill out on miles of white sand beaches, try your hand at water-sports, or get your culture on in the city.

Protecting 5,842 acres of land and 18,953 acres of water, the Gulf Islands National Seashore of Pensacola  presents countless ways to find serene solitude. Or, if you're in the mood for action, the same area is ripe for snorkelling, kayaking, hiking, biking and boating.

In town, Palafox Street is packed with places to eat, shop and be entertained. Don't miss the Saturday market for fresh bread, local cheese and sweet treats, along with handmade crafts and art.

When you're done, head to historic Fort Pickens. From downtown Pensacola, the journey will take you past spectacular beaches you'll vow to return to.

In good news for those planning to visit next year, a fabulously quirky boutique hotel is set to open in 2023. Located in a restored historic Baptist church, Lily Hall Hotel will feature Pensacola's first speakeasy. With only fifteen rooms, and a whole lot of buzz around it, you'll want to contact them early to secure yours.

Make the most of your time in Pensacola

• Take to the waters off Pensacola Beach to see dolphins on a guided cruise .
• Uncover eccentric Florida in our run down of ways to weird out in the Sunshine State .
• Want full detail on the Sunshine State? Dive into The Rough Guide to Florida .
• Travelling with kids? Find out how to have family fun in Florida .

Where to stay in Pensacola

• Best for families: Quality Inn & Suites Pensacola Bayview . Close to Escambia Bay, with an on-site pool.
• Best for seeing the region: Best Western Plus Blue Angel Inn . Friendly service, close to downtown.
• Best for couples: Pensacola Victorian Bed & Breakfast . Big beds and top breakfasts in a beautiful building.

Find more places to stay in Pensacola Florida .

Pensacola Beach, Florida © AdobeStock

Best for freedom, fresh air and recharging

A landscape of lochs, rivers, mountains and glens, the Scottish Highlands is one of the places you most want to visit in 2023. You also voted this region one of the most beautiful places in Scotland — high praise, indeed.

The ideal destination if you’re looking to recharge, the Highlands also satisfy cravings for fresh air and glorious walks. And Inverness , the region’s only major city, is a great springboard for your exploration of more remote areas.

South of the city, the area around the dramatic  Cairngorm mountains  offer fabulous opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities in stunning scenery. You won’t want to miss legend-steeped  Loch Ness , the largest of the string of lochs which make up the  Great Glen .

Cutting across the Highlands from Inverness, the Glen's ancient geological fault line leads to Fort William , a town that's stunningly sited beneath Scotland’s highest peak — Ben Nevis.

Other highlights include the West Highland Railway, which runs from  Glasgow to Mallaig via Fort William. You can also use this scenic railway route to reach  Loch Lomond , where more mysterious landscapes await.

Make the most of your time in the Scottish Highlands

• Want to walk on the wild side? The Rough Guide to the North Coast 500 is packed with rewarding routes.
• Gawp at our gallery of the  most beautiful places in Scotland , and read up on the  best things to do in Scotland .
• Take a trip focused on Scotland's Highlands .
• Be inspired by  The Rough Guide to the 100 Best Places in Scotland , and read  The Rough Guide to Scottish Highlands and Islands .

Where to stay in the Scottish Highlands

• Best for fairy tale family breaks: The Little Houses . Picture-book-perfect cabins near Fort William.
• Best for star-gazers: Aurora Rural Retreats . Epic mountain views, clear skies and cosy comfort in Glendale.
• Best for couples: SeaBeds . Luxury lakeview lodges with hot tubs.

Browse more places to stay in the Scottish Highlands .

The Kylesku Bridge in the Scottish Highlands is a landmark of the North Coast 500 © Helen Hotson/Shutterstock

Best for city slickers, beach bums and the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup

With its sparkling harbour, amazing beaches, fab food scene, and outstanding national parks on the doorstep (almost), Sydney packs punch as a destination with something for everyone. You also voted it one of the most beautiful cities in the world .

If you’re thinking of stopping off in Sydney as part of a longer trip around Australia , be sure to allow at least five days here.

For example, you’ll most likely feel hard done by if you don’t visit at least one of Sydney’s eastern-suburb beaches. We recommend strolling the coastal path that stretches from Bondi to Coogee.

If you’re into nature and wildlife, top national parks are within an hour of the city, including Ku-ring-gai Chase and Royal.

Meanwhile the magnificent, UNESCO World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains present opportunities for isolated bushwalking. You'll feel a million miles away from Sydney's glitzy commercial centre and gritty suburbs.

Follow the beautiful game? You have an extra reason to visit Sydney in 2023. From 20th July to 20th August, New Zealand and Australia will co-host the FIFA Women’s World Cup , with Sydney set to stage the final on 20th August 2023.

Make the most of your time in Sydney

• See the natural beauty of the Blue Mountains on a full-day tour to Featherdale Wildlife Park.
• Love wine? Head north toward the luscious lands of the Hunter Valley for a wine-tasting tour .
• Want to save some dollars? Discover fab free things to do in Sydney .
• Planning a bigger trip? Read The Rough Guide to Australia , and our tips for backpacking Australia .

Where to stay in Sydney

• Best for an iconic experience: View Sydney . Stylish rooms overlooking Sydney Harbour. Nuff said.
• Best for families: Coogee Sands Hotel & Apartments . Right by Coogee Beach, in easy reach of the city.
• Best for budget travellers: Sydney Harbour YHA . Modern and friendly with Harbour views from the terrace.

See more places to stay in Sydney Australia , and read our guide to accommodation in Sydney .

Sydney at dusk © Shutterstock

20. Torres del Paine, Patagonia, Chile

Best for bucket list hikes and otherworldly landscapes.

Silver glaciers, blue icebergs, and sculpted mountains that’ll take your breath away (really).  Torres del Paine National Park in Chile’s Patagonia region is a bona fide paradise for hikers who want to unleash their inner explorer.  

Given that Chile only fully opened to visitors post-pandemic in September 2022, 2023 is the perfect time to support tourism in the country, while also fulfilling big bucket list dreams. 

The park’s soaring centrepiece is the twin-peaked Cerro Monte Almirante Nieto, framed to the north by the elegant Torres del Paine (“Paine Towers”). To the west, the Cuernos del Paine (“Paine Horns”) spike the sky. 

Collectively forming the Paine Massif, the best views are found from the south bank of Lago Nordenskjöld. The lake’s weird milky-turquoise waters act as an uncanny mirror. 

To the west, llama-like guanacos roam on plains beneath the mountains. If you’re lucky, you might see an elusive, rare huermúl deer. Get really lucky, and you could glimpse a puma. 

Since you’ve made the effort to come all this way, you’ll want to hop over the border to explore  Argentina’s most amazing national park –  Parque Nacional Los Glaciares .

Make the most of your time in Torres del Paine

• To focus on more important things (like getting into explorer mode), book a customisable, tailor-made trip from Santiago to Torres del Paine .
• Prefer to book things yourself? Check out guided hiking tours of the national park .
• Read up on Patagonia's legendary Ruta 40 , and be mesmerised by pictures of Patagonia .
• Get yourself The Rough Guide to Chile and Easter Island , and arm yourself with Insight Guide Argentina .

Where to stay in Torres del Paine

• Best for exploring in style: Río Serrano Hotel . Amazing views over the Massif, plus a pool and spa.
• Best for couples: Hotel Lago Grey . A cosy, welcoming base with stunning vistas.
• Best for regional road-trips: Hotel Estancia El Ovejero Patagónico . Well-located for Argentina crossings.

Browse more places to stay in Chile's Torres del Paine region .

Torres del Paine, Patagonia, Chile © Shutterstock

Best for French flamboyance, foodies and the 2023 Rugby World Cup

Chances are, if you’ve already visited France , you’ll be hankering to return at some point. But before you book a trip to delve deeper into Paris , see more of Provence , or soak up sun on the Côte d'Azur, consider adding Toulouse to your 2023 travel destination wish-list. 

And the reasons? Though officially outside the administrative  région , Toulouse is the cultural capital of medieval and modern Languedoc. Known as the Pink City due to the blushing hue of its historic buildings, it’s a vibrant urban hub with a Vieux Quartier (Old Quarter) you might just fall in love with.

Toulouse is also the capital of European aerospace industry. It lays claim to being one of France's top culinary cities — think hearty cassoulet, duck confit, and (of course) saucisse de Toulouse . It's also the capital of wine in South-West France .

If that wasn’t eclectic enough, Toulouse is one of the host cities for the 2023 Rugby World Cup , which kicks off on 8th September.

Make the most of your time in Toulouse

• Learn about the city's history and cultural hotspots on a guided walking tour .
• Head out of town for a tasting tour of a 16th-century vinery, Domaine de Baronarques.
• Discover more places to visit in the Languedoc region .
• Read The Rough Guide to  Languedoc and Roussillon , and get yourself a French phrasebook .
• Browse our customisable France itineraries .

Where to stay in Toulouse

• Best for 5-star style: La Cour des Consuls Hotel and Spa . Ultra-elegant, with a wonderful restaurant.
• Best for couples. Hôtel de Brienne . A cosy, canal-side gem.
• Best for groups: Haut Lofts . Spacious, stylish central apartments.

Pretty and pink — Toulouse, France © AdobeStock

Discover more places to stay in Toulouse .

Best for culture, cuisine and the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup

Given that you ranked New Zealand as your number one dream destination in our recent reader travel survey, we had to include it in our best travel destinations in 2023.

After much debate, we went for Wellington , partly because it's another host city for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, which runs across New Zealand and Australia from 20th July to 20th August.

While it’s true to say that if you’re heading to New Zealand, you won’t want to spend all your time in a city, Wellington warrants a sizeable chunk of your time. Given that it’s the main departure point for the South Island, consider planning a trip that takes in Wellington’s sights before heading off. 

New Zealand’s second most populous city, Wellington sits top of the tree when it comes to café culture, nightlife and the arts, not least during the summer when a stack of fringe festivals erupt. 

Boasting more places to eat and drink per capita than New York City, Wellington is New Zealand’s culinary capital, with a cracking craft beer scene and renowned regional wine.

Courtesy of its surrounding wooded Town Belt, Wellington also boasts excellent, easily accessible walking.

Meanwhile, Mount Victoria Lookout is one of Wellington’s best viewpoints, offering sweeping views of the city, waterfront, docks, and beyond to the Hutt Valley.

Make the most of your time in Wellington

• Sample Wellington's fabulous food scene on a city tasting tour .
• Discover New Zealand’s native wildlife at Zealandia Ecosanctuary .
• Want to explore New Zealand more widely? Take inspiration from the Insight Guide.
• Given the epic nature of the country, you might want to consider taking a tailor-made trip. Our customisable North to South self-drive trip includes a few days in Wellington.
• For more rewarding road experiences, read up on some of New Zealand's best routes .

Where to stay in Wellington

• Best for families: Terrace Villas Apartments . Home comforts in 100-year-old historic villas.
• Best for couples: Bolton Hotel. An elegant boutique 5-star.
• Best for budget travellers: Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers . Affordable dorms and rooms in a former fancy hotel.

Find more places to stay in Wellington New Zealand .

Wellington, New Zealand © Tom Zahnas/Shutterstock

23. Zagori, Greece

Best for epic hikes and laidback village life.

Fallen for Greece after visiting its glorious islands ? Can’t get enough of fresh and zesty Greek food ? Fancy doing something different in 2023? You might want to look into visiting Zagori for a 2023 trip that delivers big on traditional Greek culture and cuisine. This wildly beautiful region of Greece's central mainland is also big when it comes to magnificent natural sights and hikes.

Sparsely populated, Zagori is characterised by thick forest, with rugged mountains wrinkled by foaming rivers. All this is best explored by hiking several paths that connect its traditional villages. 

The pinnacle of these hikes is to the UNESCO-protected Víkos Gorge — the second deepest Gorge in the world, no less (only the Grand Canyon is deeper). 

Steep in sections, the undulating trail takes you through a lush wilderness of untouched forest as dolomite and limestone cliffs tower overhead.

Happily for fans of Greek food, the region's impossibly pretty villages aren't short of family-run restaurants serving hearty seasonal dishes. All the better if you've worked up an appetite during an awe-inspiring hike.

Make the most of your time in Zagori

• Venture to Vikos Gorge on full-day guided hike .
• Immerse yourself in nature and food on a guided hike through the Valia Calda forest plus picnic.
• Read our tips for travelling in Greece .
• Get in-depth, insider info from The Rough Guide to Greece .
• For more inspiration, view our customisable Greece trip itineraries .

Where to stay in Zagori

• Best for traditional charm: Orestis House . Lovely stone buildings and great food.
• Best for rustic luxury: Aristi Mountain Resort . A boutique spa hotel with lofty views.
• Best for families: Ameliko Zagori . Pretty, friendly and near the gorge.

Discover more places to stay in Zagori Greece .

Aerial view of Vikos Gorge © Shutterstock

If reading the Rough Guide to the best travel destinations in 2023 has left you ready to book your trip, you might want to browse our guidebook shop to arm yourself with more info before you go.

Alternatively, explore our customisable tailor-made trips . Whether you're looking for one of the world's best adventure holidays , or somewhere to take your kids , the suggested itineraries will surely stoke your wanderlust.

We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Header image: Bohol island tarsier © Shutterstock

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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• BEST OF THE WORLD

25 breathtaking places and experiences for 2023

Looking for your next adventure? You’ll find it on our annual list of the world’s best destinations for travelers.

Travel inspiration is everywhere you look. The question is where to go next. Here’s our annual list of superlative destinations for the year ahead—places filled with wonder, rewarding to travelers of all ages, and supportive of local communities and ecosystems. Reported by our global editors and framed by five categories ( Community , Nature , Culture , Family , and Adventure ), these 25 destinations for 2023 are under the radar, ahead of the curve, and ready for you to start exploring.

Community: Where conservation benefits everyone

Discover Karpathos, Greece, a surprising and sublime spot in the Dodecanese Islands , where women-led ventures are leading the charge in sustainable tourism. Spend a long weekend in Milwaukee, Wisconsin , a vibrant Great Lakes city that celebrates its cultural community as much as its breweries. Experience how long-held traditions and contemporary perspectives intersect, with Indigenous tourism outfitters in Alberta, Canada . Board a new high-speed train that makes lesser known regions of Laos accessible to tourists and brings economic opportunities to locals. Head to Ghana to explore Black heritage and hang out with a fashion-forward crowd in the capital, Accra. ( Learn more about how these Best of the World destinations support their communities. )

Nature: Escapes to wild, beautiful places

Marvel at the biodiversity of Botswana —as well as the programs to rehabilitate endangered species, create wildlife corridors, and develop community-owned tourism projects. Linger in the   Scottish Highlands , where a rewilding movement is aiming to restore the original landscape and native flora and fauna. In Slovenia , a longtime leader in sustainable tourism, set off on new gastrotourism biking routes that visit farms, vineyards, cheesemakers, and other food producers. Big Bend National Park   brings to life the frontier legend of Texas—but the landscape will also surprise you. In the Azores ,   applaud   award-winning sustainability programs that conserve the natural wonders of this volcanic archipelago known for whale watching and thermal springs.   ( Delve into our best destinations for nature lovers. )

Culture: Places where history and heritage rule

Visit King Tut’s new home in Egypt at Cairo’s Grand Egyptian Museum and see Luxor’s Avenue of the Sphinxes. Tap into the creative energy of Asia’s top film festival and sip craft beer in Busan, South Korea , the nation’s second largest city. Make a pilgrimage through history along Italy’s Appian Way , Europe’s ancient “superhighway.” Explore culture and history—with a side of Low Country cuisine—at the International African American Museum in Charleston, South Caroli na . See one of the world’s largest assemblages of stone statues at Longmen Grottoes , a UNESCO World Heritage site in Henan Province, China.   ( Here’s how to visit these Best of the World destinations .)

Family: Inspiring journeys for all ages

In Switzerland , ride the rails to quaint Alpine towns for chocolate, hiking, and skiing. Help save the turtles in Trinidad & Tobago , one of the most important leatherback turtle rookeries in the world. In San Francisco, California ,   gather around a campfire with Golden Gate views at Presidio Tunnel Tops and hike the urban Crosstown Trail.   Go birdwatching in the avian paradise that is Colombia , the enchanted land of Disney’s Encanto.   Visit the playing grounds of a storied soccer team in Manchester, England —and be inspired by the city’s art scene as well.   ( Explore more of these family-friendly destinations .)

Adventure: Adrenaline-pumping outdoor excursions  

Trek to Choquequirao, Peru ,   an isolated Inca site that’s under the radar—but soon to be more accessible. In New Zealand , the country that invented bungee jumping, rekindle your sense of adventure post-pandemic. Get your adrenaline rush in less visited areas of the popular adventure state of Utah . In Austria , hike the cross-country Bergsteigerdörfer network of mountaineering villages to sample local culture. Finally, add Revillagigedo National Park, Mexico , to your itinerary. Its protected waters, supported by National Geographic’s Pristine Seas initiative, hold one of the largest aggregations of sharks and manta rays in the world.   ( Dive deeper into these adventure trips. )

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The 18 best places to travel in 2023

For many people, this year marked the first time since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic that travel was back within reach. It was a year defined by joyous reunions — reconnecting with friends and family in person, rediscovering favorite destinations and taking stock of this new, changed world.

It was also a year of novel travel challenges . As demand soared, so, too, did prices. We returned to the roads and skies to find a travel industry that could barely keep up with our ravenous appetite to explore the globe.

But somehow, our love of travel has endured, our wanderlust is just as insatiable as ever and destinations around the world are beckoning us to visit.

That's why we're thrilled to share the destinations on our list of the best places to go in 2023. And this year, we've not only tapped our editorial team to contribute their tips and insights but also our extraordinary network of writers from around the world.

Reaching your travel goals has never been easier when you download the free TPG App !

As always, we looked at exciting new hotel openings and boundary-pushing flights, plus the places that embody the travel trends and philosophies we see taking shape in 2023 and beyond: The destinations prioritizing sustainability, focusing on Indigenous and community-based tourism and encouraging travelers to venture beyond the obvious gateway or itinerary.

We also saw a proliferation of innovative new ways for travelers to use their points and miles to experience the world, including exciting ultra-long-haul flights where miles will come in handy and hotels in destinations that previously might have been absent from most reward travelers' maps.

As we head into 2023, get excited (we are!) about embarking on unforgettable journeys to new corners of the globe, prepare to take a second look at places you already thought you knew and connect more personally with the people who call them home along the way. We hope this list of places to visit rekindles your passion for travel and look forward to exploring this wonderful, awe-inspiring planet with you. — By Eric Rosen and Melanie Lieberman

Aotearoa-New Zealand: The future of inclusive travel

Best for sustainability-focused outdoor adventurers and sports enthusiasts.

Laid-back beach towns, award-winning wine, genuine hospitality and outdoor adventure aren't the only reasons why you should put Aotearoa-New Zealand at the top of your 2023 travel list.

Although the country's commitment to sustainability has long, deep roots (more than 33% of its land is protected), New Zealand's tourism industry launched the Tiaki Promise, a sustainability pledge, just prior to the pandemic. The Maori word "Tiaki" means to care for people and places, so the aim of this pledge is to avoid overtourism and encourage visitors to explore lesser-known destinations.

One way to do so is to seek new Maori cultural encounters and experiences, such as a traditional hangi feast in Rotorua, which is prepared in underground pits, after a visit to the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute. Or, take an interpretive storytelling trek up Maunga Hikurangi on the North Island's east coast. If you're there in June or July, you can celebrate the Maori New Year, Matariki, which is based on the lunar calendar and became an official public holiday in 2022.

Next year, New Zealand will also co-host the largest FIFA Women's World Cup ever along with Australia. Matches will be played on both the North and South islands. Along with other large sporting events like the Women's Rugby World Cup, it's a clear example of the nation's efforts to promote diversity and inclusion as international visitors return.

A handful of new hotels have opened recently, too, such as the art-filled Park Hyatt Auckland , the environmentally friendly Hotel Britomart in Auckland's central business district and, on the South Island, The Carlin Hotel in Queenstown, which overlooks the Eyre and Remarkables mountain ranges surrounding Lake Wakatipu.

Getting to the country from the U.S. is even easier now with Air New Zealand's new nonstop flights from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Auckland Airport (AKL) and Qantas' launch of the same route starting in March 2023.

TPG tip: If you're staying in Tamaki Makaurau, the Maori name for Auckland, explore one of the towns or nearby islands in the harbor. The ferry ride to Devonport takes 15 minutes, while Waiheke Island is only 40 minutes away by ferry. The latter has fabulous beaches and wineries to explore using a hop-on, hop-off bus. — By Becky Blaine

Orlando: Easy fun with classic experiences

Best for roller coaster riders, of course, but also space geeks and culture freaks.

Whether you want to feel like you're in outer space, watch an actual rocket lift off or catch a concert in one of the world's best theaters, Orlando is the destination to visit in Florida — and 2023 is going to be a banner year for the city.

Many travelers come for the world-class theme parks, but Orlando is undergoing a travel renaissance that includes a just-opened terminal at Orlando International Airport (MCO) and 170 miles of railway that will connect the high-speed Brightline train from Orlando to Miami by mid-2023.

But don't hop the train too fast. Book tickets to a concert at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts' Steinmetz Hall, which opened in 2022 and is rated as one of the world's most acoustically perfect spaces. An urban pocket park downtown called Art2 is also elevating this area of Orlando with can't-miss experiences, including performances and food trucks.

Cape Canaveral, an hour east on the coast, is also now home to Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex, a 50,000-square-foot, multilevel addition to the Kennedy Space Center that's full of interactive exhibits. And that's to say nothing of the full lineup of planned rocket launches travelers can check out over the course of 2023.

Of course, it's always a good idea to visit the theme parks, especially to catch the final months of Disney World's 50th-anniversary celebration , which includes a reimagining of Epcot with that park's first-ever roller coaster, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind , and the spring 2023 debut of Tron: Lightcycle Run in the Magic Kingdom.

Disney World is also home to the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser , a "Star Wars"-themed journey unlike any other. The immersive, interactive two-night hotel experience (ahem, space mission) opened in early 2022.

Walt Disney World Resort isn't the only theme park behemoth elevating the park experience in 2023. Universal Studios Florida opened the thrilling VelociCoaster ride just last year, and it's keeping the excitement up with an all-new theme park, Epic Universe, already under construction. It will deliver new rides, themed lands, hotels and restaurants.

TPG tip: If you are one of the millions of travelers who rent a car in Orlando each year, there is a new 7-Eleven on the airport property where you can refill your tank at retail prices and make a pit stop to grab snacks for your journey. — B y Summer Hull

Oslo: Europe's coolest art capital

Best for art and design lovers seeking new city-shaping museums and hotels.

Norway continues to claim the attention of travelers, but in 2023, all eyes are on the capital city, which is finally ready to flaunt its latest investments in the arts and hospitality.

Across from the white, angular slashes of the opera house's Carrara marble ramps and staircases is the curving 13-story tower housing the new Munch Museum, which opened in 2021. Even more imposing is the sprawling new National Museum, now one of Europe's largest art museums, which houses works from Edvard Munch's iconic "The Scream" to masterpieces from European artists like Pablo Picasso, Claude Monet and Henri Matisse.

This fall also saw the debut of Sommerro, an art deco hotel packed with contemporary art collections curated by museum director and art critic Sune Nordgren, along with 1930s works by Norwegian master Per Krohg — including a mosaic feature in the restored public baths, which opened in November. There's more to come from the boutique hotel and cultural center next year, including the addition of Villa Inkognito, an 11-suite retreat in a former 19th-century residence.

You can even bookend your trip to Oslo by venturing farther south to Kristiansand, where Kunstsilo, a modernist Nordic art museum, will debut next year inside an award-winning functionalist silo from the 1930s.

TPG tip: It's never been easier to explore beyond Oslo thanks to a flurry of new flights and cruises. Low-cost carrier Norse Atlantic (which began operating in 2022) continues expanding its reach in the U.S. by offering a number of promising nonstop routes, including one between London's Gatwick Airport (LGW) and New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) that's coming next year. Norwegian airline Widerøe is connecting Bergen to four new European cities next summer as well. For those interested in heading north, Norway's oldest cruise company, Hurtigruten, is restarting the Svalbard Express next year, while Viking and Disney have announced new itineraries to the remote Arctic region . — By Melanie Lieberman

Jordan: Connections by air, land and sea

Best for travelers who want a taste of the ancient world at the heart of the modern Middle East.

Home to some of the world's oldest pieces of history, Jordan is on many travelers' bucket lists, especially now that there are several new additions on the way. In 2023, this Middle Eastern country is channeling its renowned hospitality to welcome travelers via new flights and a host of new hotels and experiences.

In the capital city of Amman, The Ritz-Carlton is the latest luxury hotel to join the gaggle of points-friendly properties near the city's 5th Circle landmark. Lavish white interiors and crystal chandeliers bedazzle the new hotel, which has 194 rooms and 34 suites with floor-to-ceiling views of the capital's sand-hued buildings. Next summer, Radisson will pump up its Middle East portfolio with Radisson Blu Hotel, Amman Galleria Mall. And across the red sand desert, the Crowne Plaza Resort Petra will reopen after a 10-year renovation and expansion.

Northwest of Amman, the former ancient trading town of Al-Salt became Jordan's sixth and latest UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its reputation as "the city of tolerance and urban hospitality." History and design fans can explore touches of European architecture alongside the city's distinct yellow limestone facades. This city is also a new stop on the Jordan Trail's Thru Hike. Launched in 2017, the trail offers the chance to spend 40 days hiking through eight regions that, together, traverse the entire country. Originally connecting 52 villages, it's recently been upped to 75 different communities.

Nearly 75% of Jordan is covered in pomegranate-hued sand, but head south and the watercolor greens and blues of the Red Sea emerge. Here, cruising is making waves in a country renowned for its mystical desert landscapes. Emerald Cruises recently debuted its first oceangoing yacht the Emerald Azzurra, which sails from the famed seaside city of Aqaba to Athens, Greece. Next year, Windstar Cruises is following suit by launching new itineraries from Amman to Athens and Athens to Dubai, with a stop at Aqaba.

TPG tip: Hopping on a flight to Jordan from select North American cities has just gotten easier. United has launched its first-ever direct flight from Washington, D.C.'s Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Amman's Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) , which departs three times per week. Last summer, Royal Jordanian Airlines, a Oneworld member, also launched a new route from Amman to Toronto via Montreal, and it will be increasing frequencies to Chicago, Detroit, Montreal and New York in the spring and summer of 2023. — By Katie Lockhart

American waterways: Rediscovering our backyard

Best for travelers craving a nostalgic way to see America's small towns.

There's something charming about life along the water — and we're not talking about the swanky condos overlooking Miami Beach or Malibu, California's Billionaires Beach. Think instead of historical small towns like Natchez, Mississippi, and Muskegon, Michigan, as well as industrial cities like Pittsburgh, Milwaukee and Chicago, which have long relied on the nation's waterways.

American lakes and rivers remain key commercial arteries, but the cruise industry has turned them into some of the world's top leisure destinations as well thanks to a slate of new, offbeat itineraries that are only going to draw more passengers in the coming years.

Although Great Lakes and U.S. river cruises have been around for more than a century, 2023 could be one of the best years yet to sail domestically thanks to lines like American Queen Voyages , American Cruise Lines , Ponant , Viking and Pearl Seas Cruises, which are adding more capacity and itineraries along the Mississippi, Ohio, Columbia and Snake rivers; the Great Lakes; and the Chesapeake Bay.

Viking's new expedition arm rolled out its first two ships, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, which both spent time sailing the Great Lakes in 2022. Next year, travelers can also look forward to two new vessels, American Eagle and American Glory, from American Cruise Lines. The ships will debut along the East Coast and sail exclusively domestic itineraries. Additionally, American Queen Voyages will roll out the longest river voyages to date: 23-day sailings on the Mississippi and Ohio rivers .

If you book a domestic cruise, you'll see unexpected sides to major cities like Cincinnati, where the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center provides a sobering experience, as well as Detroit, which is a staple on many Great Lakes voyages, and New Orleans along the Mississippi. You might also visit towns such as Madison, Indiana, home to stately houses and a historical saddletree museum, that you might not have heard of otherwise. With more itineraries rolling out over time, there will be plenty more destinations to discover along America's waterways.

TPG tip: If you're looking to engage your competitive spirit, book American Queen Voyages' Kentucky Derby Cruise on American Countess. During the sailing on May 3, 2023, the boat will go head-to-head against two other vessels in Louisville, Kentucky's Great Steamboat Race, part of the annual Kentucky Derby Festival. — By Ashley Kosciolek

Los Angeles: In-person events are the hottest ticket in town

Best for travelers seeking a new side to the City of Angels.

Events for sports enthusiasts and tech acolytes will draw big crowds to Los Angeles next year.

In January, the College Football Playoff National Championship will kick off at SoFi Stadium and Hollywood Park, and the 123rd U.S. Open Championship golf tournament will be held at the Los Angeles Country Club in June. A third major event, the 40th Annual Breeders' Cup horse racing world championship, will gallop out of the gate at Santa Anita Park in November. The venue sits across the street from the still-new Le Méridien Pasadena Arcadia.

You'll also want to get your virtual reality headset ready, because E3 is getting back in the game, live and in person this June at the Los Angeles Convention Center. The video game industry's biggest annual event was held virtually in 2021 and canceled outright in 2022.

It will at long last be easier to get around Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) , too. After three years of construction, the Automated People Mover at LAX will finally open, connecting all terminals, the Metro Rail and a new rental car center. This state-of-the-art train will reduce travel time both to and within the airport.

Even frequent visitors will find exciting new places to bed down in LA since eight major hotels opened in 2022, including the Hyatt -branded tommie Hollywood, The Shay in Culver City and the adjoining Hyatt Place and Hyatt House LAX/Century Blvd. Two Marriott hotels — a Moxy and an AC — will debut downtown in the 38-story Fig + Pico tower, which sits across from the convention center and Crypto.com Arena. A few blocks away, a $1 billion, Frank Gehry-designed mixed-use development called The Grand LA opened. Here, you'll find Hilton 's splashy Conrad Los Angeles and four new restaurants from chef José Andres.

Also new downtown is the Sixth Street Viaduct, a 3,500-foot-long bridge with an accompanying 12-acre park with walking and bike trails. Spanning the Los Angeles River, this bridge connects downtown's Arts District with the Mexican food hot spot, Boyle Heights.

TPG tip: The Los Angeles Dodgers are considered the early-odds baseball team to beat in the 2023 World Series, so we recommend keeping an eye out for autumn points deals at downtown LA hotels near Dodger Stadium. — By Melanie Wynne

South Africa: More flights to wildlife sites

Best for nature lovers dreaming of visiting the Rainbow Nation.

South Africa has a wealth of natural and cultural riches that travelers never tire of exploring, from the Big 5 of safari lore (elephants, lions, leopards, hippos and buffaloes) to the historic steps of Nelson Mandela's "Long Walk to Freedom." One thing the country has been lacking, however, is direct flights to both Cape Town and Johannesburg via multiple U.S. carriers.

In mid-December, Delta will commence a triangle service, flying the Airbus A350 from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to Johannesburg's O.R Tambo International Airport (JNB) and then on to Cape Town International Airport (CPT) with a nonstop return from there. And through a special arrangement with the Department of Transportation , United is now offering nonstop flights between Washington, D.C.'s Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Cape Town International Airport (CPT) using a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. This is in addition to its nonstop services from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to both Cape Town International Airport (CPT) and Johannesburg's O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB).

When they arrive, travelers will find new safari lodges opening next year in some of the best wildlife-viewing destinations. The Tswalu concession in the southern Kalahari Desert is South Africa's largest private reserve — and it's less than two hours away by plane from both Cape Town and Johannesburg. There are few lodges here, though, so the new Loapi Tented Camp opening in 2023 is truly notable. With just six modern, eco-friendly tented micro-camps that are perfect for privacy, it will feel like you have the remote savannah all to yourself as you head out on private ranger-led safari drives to spot African wild dogs and desert black rhinos.

Also set to open in 2023 is The Homestead, a sustainability-focused luxury lodge in the secluded Nambiti Private Game Reserve. Nestled into the mountains of malaria-free KwaZulu-Natal, the lodge is around a three-hour drive from either Johannesburg or Durban. In addition to a dozen sleek safari suites with expansive wilderness views and butler service, expect electric safari vehicles for game drives and innovative energy-saving touches as part of the lodge's larger conservation efforts, such as grass-planted roofs and a solar farm.

TPG tip: Plan a trip around South Africa's epic music festivals, including Johannesburg's Afropunk Festival on Constitution Hill, the seat of the country's lawmakers, in December. In March, the largest music festival in sub-Saharan Africa (the Cape Town International Jazz Festival) takes center stage. And AfrikaBurn, South Africa's answer to Burning Man, sets up on the Eastern Cape in April. — B y Melissa Klurman

Rome: The Eternal City shines anew

Best for history buffs and hotel enthusiasts itching to discover ancient ruins amidst modern luxury.

In 2023, Rome's full historical heritage will be front and center for visitors to enjoy.

A project to open the Sacred Area of Largo di Torre Argentina (where Julius Caesar was assassinated) via a series of elevated walkways is slated for completion next summer. The archaeological site near the Pantheon was unearthed in the 1920s but has been inaccessible for decades. It joins The Mausoleum of Augustus, which reopened in 2021 following an 8 million euro ($8.2 million) restoration, as one of the ancient sites newly accessible to visitors.

Additionally, the Museo dell'Arte Salvata (the Museum for Rescued Art) opened in 2022. Here, precious antiquities that were returned to Italy after being plundered from archaeological sites and trafficked on the black market to auction houses, private collections and even institutions like New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art are on display. The exhibits will change, but you might see sculptures, ancient coins or even an amphora painted with erotic scenes that dates back to the sixth century B.C.

But there are new, modern developments luring luxury travelers back to Rome, too.

The arrival of international brands like W, Soho House, The Hoxton and Mama Shelter, plus boutique hotels like The First Musica and Umiltà 36 have heralded a contemporary hotel boom. Next year's openings will up the ante even more, with arrivals by Six Senses, Edition, Bulgari and Nobu, as well as a renovation of the 19th-century Palazzo Naiadi, a neoclassical landmark on Piazza Della Repubblica, by Anantara.

Rome will also see increased airlift from the U.S., with three daily seasonal flights (up from two) on Delta from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Rome's Fiumicino Airport (FCO) and a new daily seasonal route from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Fiumicino Airport (FCO) on United , both of which will launch on May 25.

TPG tip: The best way to explore the Eternal City is on two wheels. Just in time for the 2023 season, Scooteroma is revamping its popular Street Art Vespa Tour and debuting a brand-new experience focused on the city's oft-overlooked early 20th-century art and architecture, such as the iconic Vittoriano Emmanuel II National Monument in Piazza Venezia. — By Laura Itzkowitz

Bangkok: Setting the table for an epic comeback

Best for passionate foodies and arts aficionados.

For the last few years, Bangkok has been quietly setting the stage for a monumental rebound once the travel floodgates reopened and international tourists returned en masse.

On the Chao Phraya riverfront, a luxury hotel revival led by Capella and Four Seasons outposts has been underway since 2020. Both properties house destination restaurants, including soulful Thai at Capella's Phra Nakhon and the swanky Buenos Aires-themed BKK Social Club at the Four Seasons. This summer, Hong Kong's Mott 32, plus five other dining outlets, arrived at The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon around the corner. Early next year, Southeast Asia's first Soho House opens in Bangkok with multiple bars and restaurants (plus a 39-foot outdoor pool), and an Aman will follow in the coming years.

Hotels aren't the only places for tourists to experience the energy of Bangkok's evolving culinary scene. Innovators all across the city are transforming it into the world's next great food destination. Just this year, a former monk opened Small Dinner Club, which serves offbeat dishes like dessert tom yum, while mixologists at Mahaniyom Cocktail Bar craft boozy, zero-waste concoctions starring an individual element like coconut or squid.

The 2023 Michelin Bangkok guide features 35 starred restaurants (five more than last year). Additionally, both Samrub Samrub Thai and Raan Jay Fai ranked on the World's 100 Best Restaurants list in 2022. Buzz is gathering around watering holes like No Name Noodle, which opened in 2022 and serves just 35 bowls of Japanese soba per day, and chef Arnaud Dunand Sauthier's just-opened, alpine-inspired restaurant Maison Dunand as well.

Bangkok's art scene is also reawakening. Just before the pandemic, 31-year-old Mook Attakanwong founded ATT 19, an exhibition space in a former Chinese school where works broach once-taboo topics like mental health. At Aurum The River Place, exhibits range from street art to a subway car installation.

Airlines are putting flights to Thailand back on their schedules, too. Air Canada's seasonal route from Vancouver, British Columbia, to Bangkok running through March 24 is the first nonstop from North America in more than a decade. Just don't forget to make those restaurant reservations first.

TPG tip: Spend a few days hiking through tropical, UNESCO-listed Khao Yai National Park and stay in a Bill Bensley-designed heritage train car suite at the brand-new InterContinental Khao Yai Resort , which is located just a 2.5-hour drive away from Bangkok. — By Kathryn Romeyn

Panama: Leading the way with homegrown tourism

Best for adventure seekers looking to explore an untouched paradise.

Panama might be best known for its famous canal, but in 2023, all that changes for the Central American country, as previously untouched areas become more accessible to travelers. The country is a hotbed of biodiversity and an eclectic blend of cultures unlike any other in the region. Now, it's easier than ever to experience it all.

Launched in August 2022, Panama's community tourism network, SOSTUR, is a digital platform connecting travelers with rural communities and local tourism businesses. Travelers planning a visit for 2023 can select tours across 10 pilot communities in remote corners of the country. Experiences range from agritourism farm visits to sloth watching in the jungle.

Hikers will love exploring the pristine southern coast of Panama's Azuero Peninsula, which is brimming with tropical flora and fauna, natural caves and hidden beaches. Next year, the tour operator Azuero Adventures — based in the rural village of Cambutal — is introducing its Cerro Hoya Mountain Expedition, a six-day adventure that includes a three-day camping tour in Cerro Hoya National Park, home to some of the last areas of primary jungle on the peninsula.

Bookend your trip with a few days in the capital and a stay at the stylish new Hotel La Compañia, part of Hyatt's Unbound Collection. Also in the city's Casco Antiguo colonial district is the new Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, an Accor-affiliated property slated to open before the end of the year. It has a desirable location on the water's edge and unobstructed city skyline and Pacific views.

Since Delta launched three new routes from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Orlando International Airport (MCO) and New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Panama City's Tocumen International Airport (PTY) late last year, it has gotten that much easier for many flyers to visit Panama.

TPG tip : If you're flying to Panama on Copa Airlines, the nation's flag carrier, consider upgrading to see the new Copa Club lounge in Tocumen International Airport (PTY)'s new Terminal 2. It's a sprawling 21,500-square-foot space with buffet-style dining, leather loungers, a dedicated family entertainment area and a bar. — By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

Bhutan: A legendary trail reopens

Best for adrenaline junkies craving both nature and culture.

When Bhutan reopened for tourism in September 2022, it also unveiled the highly anticipated Trans-Bhutan Trail, an ancient footpath that stretches for 250 miles across the country. Over the previous two years, the trail was carefully restored by people from around the country, connecting the popular western area with the less-traveled eastern edge of Bhutan.

For decades, hiking has lured mountaineers to Bhutan. The tiny Asian kingdom has exceptional trails, especially through the Himalayas, such as the famous Snowman Trek, a demanding 216-mile hike considered one of the toughest in the world. The newly restored Trans-Bhutan Trail, by contrast, has sections that can be tackled in single or multiple days, so it's more beginner-friendly. Hikers wind through forested mountains, rice paddies and bustling villages with new campsites and homestays along the way. While there are still challenging tracts, the intention is to open parts of the country that are less touristed.

As a commitment to a more sustainable tourism strategy, the country also implemented a new, higher $200 daily tourism fee. The tariff (which replaces a daily $65 fee) funds various economic, social, environmental and cultural developments and is partially intended to limit tourist entries to manageable numbers. It also means travelers no longer need to purchase packaged trips, which allows more flexibility to book preferred hotels and tours.

The country has no shortage of luxury lodges (Aman, Como and Six Senses all have properties here), and more are on the way. Next year, andBeyond will unveil the new Punakha River Lodge on the banks of western Bhutan's Mo Chhu River in a bucolic, rice-growing region. It will have tented suites and two villas designed in a traditional Bhutanese architectural style.

TPG tip: Along with the new daily tourism fee, travelers have to adhere to a number of rules, which include hiring a local guide (in certain areas) and not self-driving. The upside is a guide can unlock the country's history and reveal its storied heritage. The roads are also extremely steep and winding, so having someone navigate them for you is a major plus. When planning your trip, keep in mind that there are no direct flights from the U.S. to Bhutan. Most travelers transit via Bangkok or Delhi, both of which have direct flights with Drukair to Paro International Airport (PBH). —By Mary Holland

Mexico's Pacific Coast: Stylish new destinations emerge

Best for swimmers, surfers and sybarites who appreciate design-driven beach resorts.

The roughly 1,200-mile stretch of mainland Mexico's Pacific Coast from Nayarit to Oaxaca is famous for the resort destinations of Puerto Vallarta, Acapulco and Zihuatanejo. But swanky new hotels, major infrastructure improvements and breathtaking natural scenery have brought three very different areas along it into focus for 2023: Riviera Nayarit, Costalegre and Riviera Oaxaqueña.

Beginning just north of Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit is undergoing one of Latin America's biggest luxury hotel booms. This 65-mile string of resort communities includes Punta Mita, already home to Four Seasons and St. Regis properties, as well as the surf town of Sayulita and, farther north, the up-and-coming Mandarina and Costa Canuva developments. Recent openings include the Conrad Punta de Mita , Secrets Bahia Mita, One&Only Mandarina and Auberge Resorts' ultra-exclusive Susurros Del Corazón. Rosewood Mandarina and Costa Canuva's Ritz-Carlton Reserve Riviera Nayarit are coming soon, along with the VidantaWorld theme, water and nature park.

The dramatic headlands and secluded beaches of the 60-mile Costalegre, which is 2.5 hours south of Puerto Vallarta, have drawn celebrities to enclaves like Careyes for decades. The region is about to take off with the opening of a new airport in Chalacatepec and continued improvements along the winding coastal artery, Highway 200. The posh Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo opened in November 2022 with 157 open-air rooms and suites, and the famed Las Alamandas boutique resort recently completed a top-to-bottom renovation. There's also the continued expansion of the 36,000-acre Chamela-Cuixmala Biosphere Reserve, home to a posh 40-room eco-resort with a Byzantine design.

Served by two smaller airports, including the recently expanded Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM), Riviera Oaxaqueña is increasingly appealing to visitors seeking an easygoing, mindful vibe (think: yoga retreats and eco-conscious architecture). Grupo Habita's new Hotel Escondido and Hotel Terrestre offer understated luxury, while Puerto Escondido's adults-only Casona Sforza is an idyllic end-of-the-road beach retreat. And just down the coast, the artsy and diverse villages of Mazunte and Zipolite (with its LGBTQIA-popular, clothing-optional beach ) are blissful beach towns for chilling out.

TPG tip: The anticipated early 2023 completion of the Barranca Larga-Ventanilla Highway, which traverses a 10,000-foot-high mountain pass, will cut the drive time from Puerto Escondido to the historic town of Oaxaca, with its art galleries and renowned restaurants, from seven hours to less than three. — By Andrew Collins

Kenya: Africa's top ecotourism destination

Best for wild-at-heart travelers seeking adventure and eco-friendly luxury.

Kenya has long been the standard bearer for sustainable tourism in Africa. The emergence of wildlife conservancies in the 1970s not only prevented poaching and illegal trade but also ushered in a new era of community involvement.

In 2023, Kenya's ecotourism movement will forge ahead with bold new initiatives to protect what is arguably the greatest safari destination on Earth. Kenya's emblematic mountain bongo (a critically endangered, notoriously shy type of antelope) will be repatriated to Mount Kenya from a preserve in Florida in a project spearheaded by the Meru Bongo and Rhino Conservation Trust. Sanctuaries within Mount Kenya National Park will also provide refuge to endangered black rhinos and draw on the knowledge and engagement of local Masai communities.

Points travelers will soon have even more reason to add the East African nation to their travel wish list. In 2023, Marriott will debut its first high-end safari lodge on the continent: the JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge . Its location, at the heart of Masai Mara National Reserve, will ensure optimal wildlife viewing; the park is home to a staggering inventory of more than 450 animal species, including the Big 5. The lodge will feature 20 classic safari-style tents with canopy beds, stone tile floors and Masai-inspired prints and fabrics. Marriott has committed to hiring 50 individuals from the Masai community, too.

Beyond the Masai Mara, Amboseli National Park is home to an extraordinary density of wildlife thanks in no small part to conservation efforts such as the Amboseli Trust for Elephants. Today, the park is one of the best places on the planet to see long-tusked elephants, as well as giraffes, eland, zebras and wildebeest in large numbers. Debuting in November 2023, Angama Amboseli will comprise 10 luxury tented suites located within Kenya's first community-owned conservancy, the Kimana Sanctuary. All tents will frame views of Mount Kilimanjaro, but the main draw here, no doubt, will be the once-in-a-lifetime elephant encounters.

TPG tip: The Billionaire Resort & Retreat Malindi, an erstwhile A-list hangout that opened to the masses in 2022, offers the ultimate safari and Indian Ocean combination without any grueling border crossings. Located in Malindi (75 miles north of Mombasa, Kenya), the resort's opulent villas and gorgeous infinity pool overlook a private white sand beach you won't want to miss. — By Caroline Lascom

Turks and Caicos: Getting out in the archipelago

Best for sun seekers and beach lovers.

Beyond the white sands and aquamarine waters you'll find around the Caribbean, Turks and Caicos offers exciting developments, including new hotels and cruise facilities, plus better airports that will make some of its previously remote islands much more accessible. So, it should come as no surprise, then, that Turks and Caicos has seen the fastest-growing travel demand by Americans year over year, according to TripAdvisor's Fall Travel Index .

To help with the influx of inter-island and private flights, the new South Caicos Airport (XSC) on South Caicos Island — the easternmost island in the Caicos group — will complete construction in June 2023. The government will also break ground on a new-and-improved international airport for Providenciales in early 2023, a project expected to cost $300 million.

Visitors will have plenty of new accommodation options, too. Andaz Turks & Caicos Residences at Grace Bay is targeting a spring 2023 opening and will be the first Andaz-branded resort and residential property in the Caribbean. Also coming in 2023, The Shore Club is adding eight six-bedroom pool villas to its iconic Long Bay Beach property. Travelers can also look forward to boutique-style suites and panoramic views of Grace Bay Beach at The Bight Hotel and Providenciales' newest resort and marina, South Bank Turks & Caicos, both of which are in the pipeline.

A recently completed dock extension at the Grand Turk Cruise Center can now accommodate larger cruise ships, so it's bound to be a port of call on more itineraries. Additionally, $1 million in grants has been distributed to water sports operators and beach vendors to accommodate the projected increase in cruisers.

TPG tip: For the first time since the pandemic, a full lineup of events is planned for Turks and Caicos in 2023. This includes the weekly Island Fish Fry at Bight Park and legendary events like the Conch Festival, the Valentine's Day Cup on Middle Caicos, the Caribbean Food and Wine Festival and the largest festival in Turks and Caicos, Maskanoo, a cultural celebration started by enslaved people in the 19th century mocking the wealthy islanders' costume balls. —By Devorah Lev-Tov

Charleston, South Carolina: A new museum casts light on a dark past

Best for diving deeper into a much-loved city .

Yes, we know. Charleston on a "best of" travel list is a lot like saying "florals for spring" — universally popular but hardly groundbreaking. But in 2023, the International African American Museum will open in Charleston, heralding a new era for cultural tourism in the city. In the works for the past two decades, the museum officially opens its doors on Jan. 21.

The museum will be a powerful lens on the past and is fittingly located at Gadsden's Wharf, where slave ships docked in Charleston Harbor and thousands of enslaved Africans first set foot in North America. The museum is raised off this now-hallowed ground on 18 pillars, each 13 feet high — a monumental structure designed by renowned architect Henry Cobb.

Inside, exhibits explore both the history of enslavement and the stories of African Americans in South Carolina's Lowcountry from the past through the present. There's a genealogical center here as well. Outside, the African Ancestors Memorial Garden includes a reflecting pool facing the harbor and a soundscape that explores the diverse range of African languages.

Beyond the IAAM, Charleston is welcoming new nonstop flights to several cities. Breeze Airlines continues to roll out new flights, including two weekly nonstops each to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and six direct flights per week to Provo Airport (PVU) in Utah, which all commenced in November. Earlier in 2022, Breeze rolled out daily nonstops to Orlando International Airport (MCO) and New York's Westchester County Airport (HPN).

On the hotel front, travelers can stay at the historic Charleston Place hotel, which is under new ownership as part of the Beemok Hospitality Collection and in the midst of a $100 million renovation. Mills House Charleston in the city's French Quarter recently emerged from a complete refurbishment as the city's first Curio Collection by Hilton property. The Loutrel, a new luxury hotel in the heart of Charleston's historic district with a buzzy on-site restaurant, is also worth checking out.

TPG tip: Spoleto Festival USA presents more than 150 performances of opera, dance, theater, classical music and jazz spanning two full weeks from Memorial Day through the beginning of June. It's a fun time to plan a visit, and there are numerous hotel package deals available. — By Melissa Klurman

Ecuador: Coastal towns capture the limelight

Best for travelers searching for new destinations to unlock with points.

Though Ecuador's capital city, Quito, and remote Galapagos Islands may be the first to come to mind, exciting developments along the country's Pacific Coast are drawing a new wave of adventurers to unexpected corners of the nation.

In March of 2022, Kontiki Expeditions launched expeditions aboard the exclusive M/S Wayra, a nine-stateroom yacht that bears the distinction of being the first "water-based" Small Luxury Hotels of the World member, which partners with World of Hyatt . That means travelers can earn Hyatt points while exploring such seldom-visited ports of call as the surf spot San Mateo and Isla de la Plata, often referred to as an inexpensive alternative to the Galapagos.

Travelers eager to connect with Ecuador's overlooked coast can also take advantage of the country's increased airlift: LATAM resumed its route between Miami International Airport (MIA) and Mariscal Sucre Quito International Airport (UIO) in October with daily flights, making it altogether easier for Americans to reach Ecuador. American Airlines has also increased the frequency of its flights between Miami and Guayaquil, the gateway to Ecuador's beachy coastline.

Even Ecuador's most famous destination, the Galapagos, continues to see significant travel industry investments. Earlier this year, Ecuador's president expanded the protected Galapagos Marine Reserve by more than 23,000 square miles. Months later, a former boutique eco-friendly hotel was reborn as Royal Palm Galapagos, a Curio Collection hotel, making it possible for travelers to redeem Hilton Honors points in the Galapagos. Standard award nights start around 80,000 points, putting the islands well within reach for many travelers with points and miles stashes.

Plus, a new Hotel Indigo is now accepting reservations for end-of-year trips to the archipelago, unlocking IHG One Rewards points redemption opportunities there, too.

TPG tip: If an eight-day sailing along the coast isn't enough immersion in the culture and wildlife of Ecuador, remote workers can take advantage of Ecuador's new Nomad Visa, which launched in 2022 and allows foreign workers to live and work in Ecuador for up to 24 months. — By Melanie Lieberman

Disney Wish: The most magical place at sea

Best for travelers who want the best of Disney while exploring the Caribbean.

Disney Wish first set sail in mid-2022, but 2023 is going to be the best time to sail on the company's first new cruise ship in a decade.

The itineraries and cabin types (ranging from a first-ever funnel suite to the cleverly designed oceanview staterooms with split bathrooms that help a whole family get ready faster by creating two distinct spaces) are now more widely available than in the first few sold-out months, but the new ship smell and sparkle remain.

Of equal importance, the staff has now had the necessary time to hit their stride with service, including on stage with Broadway-caliber reimaginings of "The Little Mermaid" and "Aladdin," and in the thrilling all-new restaurants with "Frozen"- and Marvel-inspired dinners (be sure and try the sticky date pudding with vanilla ice cream while in the Worlds of Marvel and Anna's Koldtbord with goodies like smoked salmon, sweet shrimp and dill honey mustard while dining in Arendelle).

With its three- and four-night sailings from Florida's Port Canaveral to the Bahamas, most passengers book Disney Wish to experience the ship itself rather than the ports of call. In fact, many guests don't even disembark in Nassau, preferring instead to take a turn on the AquaMouse slide, book a treatment at the Senses Spa or just have fun with the many Disney characters and themed spaces on board. It's a stress-free alternative to the increasing complexity and cost of indulging in a visit to the Disney theme parks.

TPG tip: There's the magic that's easy to spot on Disney Wish, but then there is more waiting to be discovered. For example, if you enjoy whiskey, don't walk past Hook's Barbery without popping in, as the secret space is far more than just a nook for a shave and a haircut. And if you can stay up late, make your way to the Grand Hall at midnight and look up for a fun surprise. — By Summer Hull

Sydney: Global celebrations abound

Best for travelers eager to say they attended some of the biggest events in 2023.

A fabulous flock of international visitors will descend upon Sydney in February and March to celebrate WorldPride (the first in the Southern Hemisphere) mashed up with the city's Mardi Gras festival. An opening concert headlined by — who else? — the inimitable Kylie Minogue is reason enough to hop on a flight Down Under.

In August, the city's Accor Stadium will host the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup final, bringing to an end a month of soccer (sorry, football ) and Australia's shared hosting of the tournament with New Zealand.

Fortunately, getting there will be easier than ever, as Qantas recently announced it would fly from Sydney Airport (SYD) to New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) via Auckland Airport (AKL) in June, cutting travel times for East Coasters and heralding a new age of super-long-haul flights.

Arrivals will have a bounty of new hotels to choose from for their visit, too, including the recently opened Kimpton Margot Sydney and Ace Hotel Sydney, as well as a luxurious new Capella opening by Circular Quay early in the year and the forthcoming W Sydney set to debut in October.

Aside from all the sundry Sydney outdoor activities visitors can continue to enjoy year-round, from beach walks to BridgeClimb Sydney, travelers will also be able to explore the Art Gallery of New South Wales' stunning (and eco-friendly) new Sydney Modern Project, which the museum has billed as "the most significant cultural development in the city since the opening of the Sydney Opera House nearly half a century ago."

Opening in December of 2022 and overlooking the lush Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, the complex will comprise both new and historical buildings, performance spaces, creative studios and terraces and gardens. It was designed by Pritzker Architecture Prize-winning architectural firm SANAA and will house specially commissioned works by both international and Australian artists along with rotating exhibitions … so, you never know what you might see on your next trip to Sydney.

TPG tip: Indigenous tourism experiences are flourishing across Australia, including in Sydney, where travelers can learn about Indigenous Australians' way of life on a walking Dreamtime Southern X tour of The Rocks neighborhood or even book BridgeClimb Sydney's popular Burrawa Indigenous Experience guided tour as you scale the Sydney Harbour Bridge. — By Eric Rosen

Feeling inspired? Our sister site, Elsewhere , can help you plan bespoke itineraries to several of these destinations.

clock This article was published more than  1 year ago

The top travel destinations for 2023, according to experts

Italy will be hot again next year, along with a re-opened asia, sunny beaches and the mountain west.

At the beginning of 2022, the outlook for travel felt uncertain. A new coronavirus variant had tripped up society again, and it was still a roll of the dice to plan a vacation — let alone take one. But once the omicron wave waned, travel roared back with a vengeance: Testing requirements fell, borders opened and it seemed as if every other person you knew went to Europe.

As we begin 2023, all signs show the collective appetite for travel remains huge, despite inflation and recession concerns. Industry experts are forecasting certain 2022 trends will carry over in the new year, such as people taking longer trips, going on more of them and spending more to take them.

Julia Carter, founder of Craft Travel , says her typical client would usually book one big trip a year. Now, two or even three are the norm, with one person already locked in for four major trips: Morocco, Switzerland, Botswana and a tiger safari in India. For Brittany Campbell, owner of Bucket List Holidays , most clients are booking trips for at least 10 days, and some as long as 32.

Our 10 best City Guides, according to readers

A notable change in the new year is a willingness to book long in advance again, even as far out as 2024 for clients of Susan Blume at Personal Escape Travel . That may be because more people are interested in taking bucket-list trips, which require more planning. Or it could be because many people couldn’t get what they wanted in 2022 thanks to high demand for travel, says Liz Einbinder, spokesperson for the biking and hiking tour company Backroads .

So where are people going in 2023? We asked dozens of travel advisers, tour operators and booking platforms to find out. Some of our findings won’t surprise you — “Europe is still very hot,” says Alisa Cohen, founder of Luxe Traveler Club — while other breakout destinations might. Zambia, anyone?

The absolute, undisputed most popular destination for 2023 is Italy. And if you thought everyone went in 2022, buckle up.

Fulvio De Bonis, president and co-founder of Imago Artis Travel , says they’re bracing for “way more” business in 2023.

De Bonis puts Italy travel trends into three categories: people, nature and sports. Travelers want to meet interesting locals, such as chefs or fishermen. They want to see beautiful places by going foraging in the mountains near Lake Como, for example, or hitting the beach. And they want to have exciting sports experiences , maybe by catching a soccer game or touring a team’s training facilities.

Shayna Mizrahi, founder and CEO of Vive Voyage , says her clients are also highly interested in connecting with Italian culture through cooking classes, boat excursions and artisan workshops.

For private tour operator Access Italy , the Amalfi Coast, Lake Como, Tuscany, Puglia and Sicily are clients’ most requested destinations. These classics are also the most popular for Imago Artis, but De Bonis notes that travelers want off-the-beaten-path experiences within these well-known places. They don’t just want to see Tuscany’s highlights; “there is a world outside of Florence,” De Bonis says, and travelers want to explore it.

Other European destinations trailing behind Italy next year (but still in hot pursuit) are Greece, Portugal and the United Kingdom.

Our best Italy travel advice:

• Everything to know about traveling to Italy
• 7 Italy vacations that check every travel style
• A local’s guide to Rome

As the last region in the world to reopen during the pandemic, East Asia is expected to have a banner year for tourism, with Japan poised to be the fan favorite.

Although people want to go to the “Golden Triangle” — Tokyo , Kyoto, Osaka — Mike Salvadore, a travel agent with Travel Leaders, recommends adding a stop to see Japan beyond its best-known cities, such as mountainous Sapporo in the north or beachy Okinawa in the south.

If you’d like to go during cherry blossom season, you may be out of luck. Jeff Krevitt, vice president of marketing for the Americas for Inside Travel Group, which owns InsideJapan Tours , notes that this will be the first spring since 2019 that the country will be open to international travelers, so big crowds can be expected.

For a cheaper alternative with more availability, Rani Cheema, chief executive and travel curator at Cheema’s Travel , recommends traveling to South Korea to see the flowering cherry blossoms this spring instead.

Our best Japan travel advice:

• We visited Studio Ghibli’s long-awaited theme park. It’s a sensory delight.
• Everything you need to know about traveling to Japan
• Staying in a historical Japanese temple is an extraordinary experience. Here’s how to do it .

Southeast Asia

Behind Japan, Southeast Asia is also high on travelers’ wish lists, with Thailand, Bali and Vietnam at the top.

The travel subscription service VIP Traveler has seen a 200 percent increase in interest in Bali, perhaps following Indonesia’s newly launched digital-nomad visa .

It could also be that Bali appeals to the growing number of travelers interested in trips focused on wellness. Salvadore says most of his clients want to go to Ubud, Bali’s lush jungle town near the center of the island. But some have been open to suggestions to try the lesser-visited eastern coast or northwestern Bali, “which is a little bit more secluded but also really beautiful,” Salvadore said.

Our best Asia travel advice:

• Asia is slowly reopening to travelers. Here’s where you can go.
• Traveling to a newly reopened Asia allowed me to be myself again
• Marijuana is now legal in Thailand. What does that mean for tourists?

The Caribbean

A perennial sunshine-filled favorite that tends to be easy for Americans to reach, the Caribbean will remain sought-after in 2023.

“A lot of people will go to the typical places like the Dominican Republic or Jamaica or the Bahamas,” Salvadore said, but eastern Caribbean countries are some of his favorites, such as Barbados, Saint Lucia, Anguilla, Antigua and Grenada.

Our best Caribbean travel advice:

• 6 Caribbean vacations that check every travel style
• Caribbean trips are expensive, so I went to the Caribbean of Maryland
• In Grenada, a.k.a. the Spice Isle, a foodie paradise blossoms

Jonathan Alder, owner of the luxury travel company Jonathan’s Travels , has booked more Egypt trips for clients in the past two years than he has over the entire decade, and requests are picking up speed in 2023. “We’ve had one after another after another after another,” he said.

Some of the renewed interest may be attributed to the anticipated opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, says Jasmine Padda, Egypt destination expert for Kensington Tours . She also pointed to the increase in major cruise lines adding sailings in the region.

Carolyn Addison, head of product for the luxury travel company Black Tomato , credits Egypt’s trending status to people who want to check classic trips off their bucket lists.

“We have lots of people who are like: ‘I’ve always wanted to see the pyramids. I’ve always wanted to cruise the Nile,’” she said.

The American West

Jen Moyse, VP of product for the travel app TripIt , says that although international travel is having a moment, Americans will continue to return to iconic cities at home that are still rebounding from the pandemic.

Of the Top 5 most booked domestic destinations on the travel booking platform Hopper , four are out west: Las Vegas, Denver, Los Angeles and Phoenix.

For Skyscanner bookings, Las Vegas and Los Angeles took the top spots for most booked flights in the new year, with San Francisco, Honolulu and Denver also making the Top 10.

The vacation rental platform Vrbo says demand for homes in western U.S. destinations is on the rise, as customers look for trips in the great outdoors.

Our best travel advice on the American West:

• How to do Montana like a local, beyond Glacier and Yellowstone
• A hater’s guide to Las Vegas
• UNESCO at 50: 24 World Heritage sites to see across America

Mexico has been breaking tourism records throughout the pandemic and will return as a powerhouse destination in 2023. Its most popular and easy-to-get-to beach destinations are major contributors to that success.

“People are welcoming that beach vacation,” Cohen said. “They want to go to Mexico and just relax.”

Cancún, on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, is the most booked international destination next year for Hopper, Skyscanner and the airfare search engine Skiplagged . However, demand for cultural capitals will also continue to rise.

Oaxaca is the second-most popular destination for the travel company Modern Adventure, and Mexico City ranks high as well.

Our best Mexico travel advice:

• 6 Mexico vacations that check every travel style
• Where to drink natural wine in the heart of Mexico
• A local’s guide to Mexico City

Another carry-over from 2022, Costa Rica is attracting travelers — including families, honeymooners and retirees — with its abundance of affordable flights, outdoor adventures, wildlife and coastline.

For customers of travel planning company Zicasso , the most sought-after places to visit are Arenal, Manuel Antonio, Monteverde, Tortuguero and the Osa Peninsula, which lines up with our expert recommendations .

The most booked 2023 itinerary for Road Scholar, a group tour company for senior travelers, is a Costa Rica vacation that hits many of those places, as well as Punta Leona, on the central Pacific coast, and Sarapiqui, a renowned birdwatching region in Costa Rica’s Caribbean lowlands.

The Galápagos Islands

Another dream trip becoming a reality for travelers in 2023 is the Galápagos Islands. The biggest seller for Astonishing Travel owner Heidi Bocianowski, the Pacific Ocean archipelago appeals to people who want to see something new every day, including black lava rock, red sand and rare wildlife.

Brian Tan of Zicasso says customers are keen on combining a trip to the Galápagos with other South American highlights.

That may be Patagonia, which has been “by far one of the most popular destinations” for Craft Travel founder Carter. It helps that travelers can once again cross between Chile and Argentina by road. Carter has been planning combination trips for clients to Torres del Paine National Park on the Chilean side, with the charming villages of El Calafate and El Chaltén on the Argentinean side.

7 travel mistakes to avoid in 2023

African safaris

Keeping with the once-in-a-lifetime theme, Brian Pentek, owner of LuxeLife Travel , says “Africa is huge” for his clients.

Most are going in multigenerational groups who use the trip as graduation presents or family reunions. They may be going to Cape Town, South Africa, as well as Botswana (for game reserves) or Rwanda for gorilla trekking.

In addition to safaris, Salvadore incorporates ways for his clients in Africa to experience local culture, check out the food and drink scenes, and enjoy bush camping instead of staying in luxury lodges. In 2023, he’s sending travelers to Zimbabwe, Kenya, Tanzania and Zambia, a country listed as one of the top up-and-coming travel spots in a summary compiled by Scott Dunn luxury travel planners.

The most booked destinations for Niarra Travel also include South Africa, Victoria Falls (which sits on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe) and Kenya, while trips to the Serengeti in Tanzania dominate reservations for Deeper Africa . One of the company’s owners, Karen Zulauf, said she has noticed upcoming travelers are more interested in adding active excursions, such as “walking safaris, mountain biking, horseback riding, you name it.”

For those who have already done a traditional safari vacation, Carter recommends Namibia, a country seeing a resurgence in interest, where travelers can go on self-driving road trips (vs. ones with a guide) between eco-lodges or take small planes to some of the world’s most remote places, such as the Skeleton Coast and Hoanib Valley.

Gorillas are Rwanda’s main attraction. Dian Fossey would hate that.

Even before the North African country drew international attention in the World Cup, Morocco was emerging as a major travel hot spot. It’s the most booked country for Intrepid Travel , and “we expect Morocco to continue to be incredibly popular in 2023, given the increase in flights into the destination and the ability to get out and have great experiences in one-week, 10-day or two-week itineraries,” said the company’s CEO, James Thornton.

That’s also true for Modern Adventure. Liz Boudreau, vice president of experiences for the company, says it has had a 53 percent increase in bookings compared with 2022.

If you’re worried about your travel budget, consider visiting as a work exchange volunteer, like Washington Post reporter Andrea Sachs tried in Fez.

Small cruises

Cruises are making a strong comeback, even for travelers who might not consider themselves cruise people. But instead of taking megaships, they’re looking for smaller options operating expedition trips (think Antarctica and Alaska) or luxury voyages, mainly river cruising in Europe and Egypt.

For destinations with the highest interest, such as Portugal, Emma Cakmak, owner of the cruise-focused company A Passport to Travel , is warning clients that May through September is practically sold out across all the top cruise lines, although there’s some availability in low-end stateroom categories.

If you’re striking out, keep shopping around. As they notice demand climb, some cruise lines seem to be “bringing on significant capacity as they move into” 2023, said Priceline CEO Brett Keller.

Our best cruise advice:

• One side effect of cruise covid rules: Norovirus has plummeted
• CDC stops reporting coronavirus cases on cruise ships
• Virgin Voyages gets its sea legs

An earlier version of this article incorrectly identified Susan Blume as Stephanie Blume. The error was updated.

More travel news

How we travel now: More people are taking booze-free trips — and airlines and hotels are taking note. Some couples are ditching the traditional honeymoon for a “buddymoon” with their pals. Interested? Here are the best tools for making a group trip work.

Bad behavior: Entitled tourists are running amok, defacing the Colosseum , getting rowdy in Bali and messing with wild animals in national parks. Some destinations are fighting back with public awareness campaigns — or just by telling out-of-control visitors to stay away .

Safety concerns: A door blew off an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jet, leaving passengers traumatized — but without serious injuries. The ordeal led to widespread flight cancellations after the jet was grounded, and some travelers have taken steps to avoid the plane in the future. The incident has also sparked a fresh discussion about whether it’s safe to fly with a baby on your lap .

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

The Best Places to Travel in 2023

From Madrid to Montenegro, Turkey to Transylvania, Vienna to Venice...our curated list of the best places to visit now.

Your next trip should be:

Madrid, la maxima….

Because four new five-star hotels can't be wrong.

Madrid may not have the sheer beauty of Paris or the antiquity of Athens or Rome. Its appeal has long been what writer Julia Reed once called its “elegant conservatism”—and unmatched nightlife. (“In Madrid,” Hemingway said, “nobody goes to bed until they have killed the night.”) It’s still true, but these days there’s a new temblor de emoción , a flutter of emotion (the closest Spanish comes to the word excitement ). “Remember, in the 1980s, after Franco died, how Madrid was the place to be?” says Virginia Irurita, of Made in Spain and Portugal, who lives in Madrid. “With La Movida, the painters, Almodóvar? That’s how Madrileños feel now.”

The city’s cultural cachet (not that it needed more) is building: A fifth UNESCO World Heritage Site has been anointed (the tree-lined Paseo del Prado and the adjoining El Retiro, a 17th-century palace garden). Next summer Madrid’s Royal Palace (the largest in Europe) will open a new annex for the Museum of the Royal Collections. And the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum has not one but two blockbuster shows planned for 2023: Picasso and Lucian Freud.

On Our Radar Spain's Balearic islands just get better. Everyone's abuzz about the April opening in Majorca of the new Son Net , a 17th-century estate in a bucolic setting 15 minutes by car from Palma that has been restored and transformed into a 31-room hotel by the masterminds behind Andalucia's Finca Cortesin . Enough said.

Royal Romania…

Because the king of England will open his home to you.

The king of England’s real estate portfolio is worth billions. There is the verdant paradise at Highgrove and 192 acres of bucolic bliss at Llwynywermod in Wales. Now he has Sandringham and Balmoral, too. But where does a sovereign go to really unplug? Romania, apparently, where King Charles owns two homes in Transylvania—yes, of Dracula fame. One of them he turned into a center for traditional crafts; the other, his private country residence in Valea Zalanului , becomes a seven-room B&B when he isn’t around.

A grand pile this is not, and that is by design—all local antiques and textiles. No TV, no WiFi, just horseback rides, nature walks, and convivial dinners during which you might drop in this fun fact: Charles is a descendant of Vlad the Impaler (so named for his preferred method of execution), who inspired Bram Stoker’s tale about history’s most famous vampire. By Leena Kim. To book a trip to Romania : Raluca Spiac , raluca@ beyonddracula.com

The Literary Maldives...

Because who says a tropical resort can't be the ultimate party school?

Sonu Shivdasani, the founder of Soneva resorts, was turning his properties into exemplars of environmental sustainability long before it was fashionable to do so. His latest stroke of genius: bringing the Jaipur Literary Festival to the lush, beach-ringed island of Kunfunadhoo, in Baa Atoll in the Maldives—home of Soneva Fushi .

The JLF in Jaipur attracts thousands of attendees and is streamed to 10 million viewers worldwide; at Soneva Fushi’s inaugural festival last May, there were 120 attendees, spread out over 10 days (minimum stay is four days). Which meant attendees had direct access to the 34 renowned writers and artists (including filmmaker Mira Nair, novelist André Aciman, and Oxford historian Peter Frankopan). We all resided in solitary splendor (Soneva Fushi has 64 private, butlered villas), but we had meals and gala dinners together (barefoot) as well as keynote lectures, panel discussions, and musical performances.

There were sunset champagne cruises to a sandbank, movie nights, and dancing. I left with new friends and a notebook full of ideas—about as vivifying as travel can get. JLF Soneva Fushi 2023 runs May 12–21.One speaker will be Priyamvada Natarajan, a professor in the departments of astronomy and physics at Yale whose specialty is the nature of dark matter and black holes. Just the thing to ponder in paradise. By Klara Glowczewska . To Book : Soneva.com

On Our Radar The Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavara has launched a trainee marine biologist program for teenagers. Six full-day modules are offered (you can choose as many as you like), working with scientists studying such topics as manta rays, turtles, coral, and the secret lives of plankton.

A Scottish Surprise…

Because you'll like the fresh takes—even on haggis.

The second haggis came as a surprise. On my first night in Scotland, ordering chef Mark Greenaway’s elegant version of the country’s most famous (and often derided) dish seemed like a leap into the gastronomic deep end, something to try to get the full experience of the place. On the next night it was just because I liked it. That kind of reconsideration of classics is what’s most exciting about Scotland right now. Sure, castles, lochs, and misty mountains abound. But Glasgow and Edinburgh are sophisticated cities with extraordinary dining and cutting-edge culture around every corner. Last summer Edinburgh’s Festival Fringe celebrated its 75th anniversary with 3,300 performances by artists from 63 countries;at the Edinburgh International Festival, Gabriel Byrne premiered his one-man show, Walking with Ghosts , which recently moved to Broadway. On leafy St. Andrew Square, Gleneagles has opened its first urban property, Gleneagles Townhouse , with a member’s club and rooftop bar.

Dean Banks, the MasterChef veteran who runs fine-dining destinations including the Pompadour at the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh , is quick to call out other new favorites, such as the Finnieston in Glasgow, which specializes in sustainable seafood, and Monachyle Mhor , the boutique Highlands hotel known for its “whisky safari.” “In Scotland,”Banks says, “we are kings of touching back to our traditions.” Luckily, the rest of us are able to as well. By Adam Rathe . To book a trip to Scotland : Jonathan Epstein, Jonathan@ celebratedexperiences.com

Italy Off-Season…

Because at the end of the day, no one comes to Italy for a suntan.

Last summer Italy was, let’s be frank, almost loved to death, with congested roads, swamped sights, and sluggish service from overworked staff. Our suggestion? A do-over, but not in summer. “We are huge believers in low-season travel here,” says Andrea Grisdale, the Como-based founder of IC Bellagio . “It’s a totally different experience, and we are actively encouraging it.” No, you will not be forced to pitch a tent. For the first time, a number of hotels that used to shutter as soon as summer ended are pushing back closures. In Lake Como, the classic Villa d’Este is staying open until early January and reopening in March, as is the beautiful new Passalacqua .

Following suit in Puglia is the wildly pretty Borgo Egnazia . On the Amalfi Coast, Monastero Santa Rosa stayed open into November in 2022 and is considering December in 2023. There will be more. “After a year like this one,” says Elisa Pozzoli, of Essence of Italy, “hotels are changing their mentality. And Venice in January or February is magical. You’re alone, in a ghost city.”

Something else might help ease the travails of overtourism: a handful of new five-star hotels available year-round. Six Senses Rome (GM Francesca Tozzi comes from Capri’s Tiberio Palace) opens in the spring in a 15th-century palazzo a block from the Galleria Doria Pamphilj. In Milan the 73-suite Portrait Milano , a first foray there from the Ferragamo family, has just opened on Corso Venezia, close to the fashion district but not in the thick of it. Casa Baglioni Milano , a 30-room hotel with an interior that nods to Italy’s Modernist dolce vita era, is in the heart of the city’s artsy, “local” Brera district. Both offer a way to sidestep the visitor surge, even during Fashion Week. As for the summer? Grisdale cannot be more emphatic: “We are about to enter a new era. The famous summer tradition is on its way out. No one comes to Italy for a suntan, anyway. And do you know how amazing this country is with few tourists around?” By Mark Ellwood . To book a trip to Italy : Andrea Grisdale, andrea@ icbellagio.com

On Our Radar Hotel La Palma , Capri’s first hotel, built in 1822 and steps from the famous Piazzetta, is opening in July after a major renovation as the Oetker Collection’s first Masterpiece Hotel in Italy. One of many highlights: a private beach club at the Marina Piccola. (No word yet, though, on an extended season.)

Your Next Trip Should Be:

Africa in a private villa….

Because, let's face it, having the bush all to yourself is better.

OL JOGI , KENYA.

A 58,000-acre onetime cattle ranch on the Laikipia Plateau is now a private conservancy with serious game viewing. Owned by the art-dealing Wildenstein family, Ol Jogi can be booked for up to 22 people. Don’t let the thatched-hut-style exterior fool you: Inside it’s over-the-top French château luxury. Great perk: the underground hide, reached through a tunnel, which overlooks a rhino-luring salt lick.

SINGITA’S MALILANGWE HOUSE , ZIMBABWE.

This 5-bedroom villa in the 130,000-acre Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve is close enough to Singita’s Pamushana Lodge that you can walk to the main camp, but it’s isolated on a hilltop, with gorgeous views of huge boulders, red soil, and golden msasa trees. On offer: classic game drives as well as ancient cave rock art sites and “water safaris” to see fish eagles, hippos, and crocodiles.

COTTARS BUSH VILLA , KENYA.

Charles Cottar set up his safari business in the Mara back in 1919. Great-grandson Calvin and his wife Louise now run it, retro associations intact: canvas, Persian rugs, and dark wood furniture. The new 5-bedroom bush villa, built entirely by hand, sits on a hill like an old farmhouse, but it has all mod cons, including an 82-foot-long pool. Ask to be guided by the all-female ranger team, the only such in the Mara.

FARMHOUSE AT THE FARMSTEAD , SOUTH AFRICA.

Onetime fashion exec Liz Biden converted her country getaway in Greater Kruger into the Royal Malewane lodge 23 years ago and has since expanded her footprint. The nearby Farmstead now has a stand-alone 7,000-square-foot villa with a kids suite and a pool that sticks out right into the bush. Her background is evident in the exuberant decor; even the laundry comes packaged in scarlet netting, tied with a big red bow. Royal Malewane’s guides are standouts: Several have earned the title master tracker, a rarity in safari.

CHEETAH PLAINS, SOUTH AFRICA.

These three ultramodern 4-bedroom homes (booked individually or together) are remarkable for their especially game-rich location in private Sabi Sand reserve, adjacent to unfenced Kruger National Park. (The near-silent electric 4X4s help too.) As for the amenities: Each comes with a heated pool, wine gallery, chef, sommelier, and full-time spa therapist.

KATAZA HOUSE, SINGITA KWITONDA , RWANDA.

This 4-bedroom villa is the only luxe safari house close to Volcanoes National Park, home of the mountain gorillas. Building materials and decor were procured locally; there are ebonized tables, eucalyptus wood screens, and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking three huge volcanoes. Deborah Calmeyer of Roar Africa calls it a “spiritual experience like nowhere else in Africa.” By Mark Ellwood. To book any of the above African villas : Deborah Calmeyer, deb@ roarafrica.com

La Belle Bourgogne…

Because of the wine, bien sur. And some fine new bolt holes.

They don’t call parts of Burgundy the Côte d’Or just for its fall foliage. “Anyone interested in wine will eventually end up here,” states Dennis Sherman, a 40-year resident who runs a wine brokerage business near Beaune. “It’s the simplicity of the single grape variety with the complexity of the soil—the wine has incredible depth and substance.” But ending up here hasn’t been all that easy: The higher-end accommodations have long been largely on barges on the region’s waterways. Now, however, two rival ultraluxe hoteliers are opening properties.

American expats Denise Dupré and Mark Nunnelly who run the five-star Royal Champagne hotel in that region, are reinventing the Clos de la Commarainen estate as a 23-room hotel in a 12th-century château (connected to the dukes of Burgundy) and anchored by its 10 acres of Pommard Premier Cru. It will form the basis of a revival of winemaking here, something that last took place 20 years ago. Arriving at the end of 2023 is COMO Le Montrachet , an albergo diffuso–style hotel nestled around a charming village square a few miles south of Beaune (Christina Ong’s fourth European site).

The lodging shortage solved, another issue persists. (Great pleasures are often hard won.) And that is access to Burgundy’s prized small-batch production. According to Philip Haslett, of Kairos , who organizes trips throughout France, “The winemakers here aren’t as visitor-ready as those in Champagne or even Bordeaux. The farmers are not turning up in a BMW—they’re the real deal, so it doesn’t matter who you are, because they don’t have anything extra to sell.”

Which is why Haslett works with guides who have deep roots here, such as Youri Lebault of Bourgogne Gold Tour, who specializes in opening near-impossible cellar doors (guiding is essential due to Burgundy’s fragmented, jigsaw-like terroir, which is carved into patches known as climats ). “Yesterday,” he said, “I ended my two-day wine tour in a private cellar in the Côte de Beaune, alone with my clients, smelling the wine from the barrel and tasting it with a pipette.” By Mark Ellwood. To book a trip top France : Philip Haslett, Philip @ kairos-travel.com

Your next trip should be...

Yes, panama….

Because it's about to pop and it has three attractions no other country in Central America or the Caribbean can claim.

1. The Old Town

One of the best-restored and most delightful historic districts in the region, dating back to 1673, with a sophisticated new hotel, La Compañia (a hot spot for locals and international travelers), and a real foodie scene: Peruvian-Panamanian, French-Panamanian, patisseries, and coffee and cigar bars.

2. The Canal

Human ingenuity is on full display along this 40-mile engineering marvel, which connects the Atlantic with the Pacific and divides North and South America. A must day trip from the Old Town, it’s also a good jumping-off point for hikes in the Anton Valley and visits to the Emberá indigenous community.

Nayara’s Bocas del Toro , in the Bocas del Toro archipelago, is a luxe perch from which to explore Panama’s astonishing biodiversity. Prep at the Frank Gehry–designed biodiversity museum in Panama City. By Michael Clinton . To book a trip to Panama : Pierre Gedeon, pierre@ costa-adventures.com

On Our Radar: An environmentally minded billionaire owner, Louis Bacon, has turned an archipelago of 14 islands off Panama’s Pacific coast into an a all-inclusive luxe retreat, Isla Secas . It guarantees total privacy (it sleeps just 24), real adventure, and untouched nature. Thirteen of the islands will remain undeveloped.

A Turkish Delight…

Because jetting to Bodrum is swell, but sailing to Kaunos in a gulet is better.

A couple of years ago Emily Morrison, a former New Orleans commodities trader, visited Turkey for the first time, suntanning in Bodrum and hot-air-ballooning over Cappadocia like a latter-day Jules Verne. At the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, that tortuous labyrinth from the 15th century, she had a career epiphany while sorting through textiles, so she left her job and started a lifestyle brand, Elysian by Emily Morrison , back home, collaborating with Turkish artisans on decorative wares, footwear, and clothing. “What I experienced was the people of Turkey,” she says. “The hospitality, the craftsmanship, the culture.”

Now she returns several times a year. And Morrison’s not alone: American travel to Turkey in the first half of 2022 skyrocketed 77 percent over the same period in 2019, according to the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism. Post-pandemic, the number is poised to climb in 2023, as the country marks its 100th anniversary as a republic.

“It took many years, but things have definitely changed,” says Karen Fedorko Sefer, founder of Sea Song Tours , who arrived in Turkey in 1998 and organized Morrison’s original visit. “The key was developing infrastructure to accommodate demanding luxury travelers.” Turkish Airlines invested in U.S. hubs (three daily flights out of JFK, two from LAX), and elite lodgings boomed: A Four Seasons and a Mandarin Oriental opened on the Bosporus, followed by the newly restored Four Seasons in historic Sultanahmet. The Peninsula Istanbul and Japan’s Okura Spa & Resort Cappadocia are expected in 2023.

And it’s not just cities that are thriving: Thanks to Turkish Airlines’ vast network of domestic flights, jetsetters are discovering the cradle of civilization in Asia Minor. Though why go by air to the ruins of Kaunos or the shipwrecks of Monastir Bay when a gulet is an option. A very posh option. Turkish sailing yachts are, Sefer says, “second to none.” By Erik Maza .

To book a trip to Turkey: Karen Fedorko Safer, fedorko@ seasong.com

On Our Radar: This past October, Michelin Guides published its first list of 53 Istanbul restaurants . Why it took this long, given the city’s Byzantine and Ottoman epicurean traditions, is a mystery. But never mind: It’s a whole new impetus to visit. The star of the list, with two stars, is Turk Fatih Tutak .

A Montenegro Odyssey…

Because it's the Med without the crowds.

Byron called the 182-mile stretch of Montenegro’s Adriatic coast “the most beautiful encounter between land and sea.” No wonder. Riven with fjords, dotted with tiny islands and ancient towns (such as Kotor, Budva, and Perast), and lined with 45 miles of beach, the little country has been quietly turning into a niche destination for yachting holidays, a Croatia without the crowds. “It’s Norway, but it’s warm!” proclaims Paola Scalabrino, a charter specialist with Monaco-based Yachtzoo . “And it’s for people who want beautiful anchorages but don’t need to be in port every night, out clubbing.” If you want a land perch, One&Only Portonovi , near a new marina, is the sole five-star resort option (ever since the Aman Sveti Stefan closed amid a local controversy over beach rights). And, opening this spring, in an 1850s Austro-Hungarian fortress, is the boutiquey 32-room Mamula Island , which comes with a fleet of boats you can use on demand. By Mark Ellwood . To book a trip to Montenegro: Ala Osmond, Ala@ exeterinternational.com

A Viennese Waltz...

Because the new museums are magnificent and you get to pack your dancing shoes.

Mention Vienna and what comes to mind are pastries and paintings, sacher-torte and Schiele—a place worth a pit stop between Prague and Budapest. But the grand onetime imperial capital is starting to shed its gilded cobwebbiness. A permanent home has just opened for the Austrian billionaire Heidi Goëss-Horten ’s 700-strong collection —of Picassos, Chagalls, Basquiats, Warhols, Richters, and Baselitzes. The two-year-old Albertina Modern , Austria’s answer to the Tate , will showcase in spring 2023 American artist Alex Katz in a major retrospective.

On the hotel front, the 150-year-old Sacher has some competition. Rosewood Vienna opened last summer in a former bank in the heart of the city’s pedestrian district. The onetime Ring Hotel, on the Ringstrasse, will reopen in early 2023 as the Amauris Vienna . The locally owned and operated Leo Grand is a pretty boutique spot a few steps from St. Stephen’s Cathedral. And a Mandarin Oriental is coming as well (to an Art Nouveau building on Riemergasse).

But there’s one tradition that Gwen Kozlowski, president of Exeter International , is keen to see preserved: the balls. “They are truly like nowhere else, and superformal.” Skip the ones around New Year’s and focus on the distinctly Viennese ones at Lent. The most prestigious are the Opera and Philharmonic balls. “They’re hard to wrangle tickets for, but if you’re serious, we can usually make it happen.” By Mark Ellwood. To book a trip to Austria: Gwen Kozlowski, Gwen@ exeterinternational.com

A Cool Cruise…

Because swanning around on a gorgeous ship is as good as it gets.

A JAMES BOND–IAN FANTASY (ON SCENIC ECLIPSE ).

The first ultraluxe expedition ship, Scenic Eclipse, from the Australian brand Scenic, turned heads for its megayacht style and 007-esque toys. Now comes Scenic Eclipse II . Both will go to the Arctic and Antarctic, but in 2023 Eclipse II will also visit Euro yachtie hangouts (Capri, Hvar, Ibiza, and more) and explore the Pacific—the gorges of Australia’s Kim- berley, Indonesia’s Spice Islands, and Raja Ampat.

AN ARCTIC ADVENTURE (ON COMMANDANT CHARCOT ).

Until now, reaching the North Pole has never been a breeze. But next summer Ponant’s hybrid-powered icebreaker, Le Commandant Charcot , will make four 15-night trips there. Outside is a silent world of polar bears and pack ice; onboard it’s all expedition-chic (an Alain Ducasse restaurant, a dernier-cri spa, floor-to-ceiling windows). The best part: knowing you’re farther north than anyone else on earth.

AN ART TOUR OF THE BALTIC (ON VIKING OCEAN ).

Without St. Petersburg, a cruise around the Baltic might feel like seeing Athens without the Acropolis. Not so. Scandi-chic Viking has a fix for art lovers next summer: a series of 14-night ocean sailings between Bergen and Stockholm, with guided tours of major museums and works of architecture. One highlight: a private viewing in Oslo of Edvard Munch’s haunti ng masterpiece The Scream . By Sue Bryant. To book a cruise : Ashton Palmer, Ashton@ expeditiontrips.com ; Tom Baker, Tom.Baker@ cruisecenter.com ; Mary Jean Tully, travel@ tullyluxurytravel.com

On Our Radar : Other lines are plying the Baltic too: Silversea’s 14-night roundtrip from Copenhagen stops in Stockholm, Tallinn, Helsinki, and Gdansk. Regent Seven Seas’ 10-night cruise sails June 30 from Copenhagen to Stockholm, with stops in Berlin, Gdansk, Tallinn, Helsinki, and Art Nouveau–rich Riga.

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The 10 best places to travel in 2023

Add these 10 seriously hot destinations - some near, some very far - to your ‘must-visit’ list for this year. These are the best places to travel in 2023 bar none...

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We all know that the last couple of years haven’t exactly been ‘normal’ when it comes to travel. But the good news is that this year - finally - holidays are properly back with a bang. To celebrate, we've rounded up the best places to travel in 2023. 

The world is open and adventures are plentiful. You just need to decide where you want to go.

To give you a helping hand, we’ve rounded up the best places to travel in 2023. We’ve listed below something for every kind of traveler, from new flight routes to exciting hotel openings, city centenaries to holidays inspired by popular television shows. There are relaxed sunshine breaks and active ones - and even a must-try getaway right here in the UK. So whether you're looking for the best places to visit in Europe or a fun UK staycation , you're in the right place. 

Now, time to get booking…

Pretty Taormina in Sicily

If you watched season two of The White Lotus, there’s a fair chance you’re now lusting after a holiday to the beautiful sun-soaked isle of Sicily. The Four Seasons Resort San Domenico Palace - perched dramatically on a hillside in colorful Taormina - is as much a star in the cult television series as the hilarious Jennifer Coolidge, who plays the eccentric Tanya McQuoid. Sip a drink at the atmospheric bar after a day of exploring the town’s pretty piazzas and ancient Roman amphitheater. 

But Sicily isn’t the only hot Italian destination for your radar this year. Romantic capital Rome is getting a fresh injection of style with a renovation of the famed Colosseum. A new high-tech floor will let visitors walk in the footsteps of the gladiators for the first time in centuries. The city sees the opening of several new luxurious stays in 2023, too, including branches of the Bulgari Hotel , Six Senses and Nobu Hotels . Even if you can’t justify splurging on an extravagant room, you can pop in for a bowl of heavenly pasta in the restaurants or visit the decadent spas.

Top tip: Want to eat like a local? Then you need to try the best traditional Italian dishes , specific to the area you're visiting. In Rome order a ‘pizza alla pala’ - a thick-based pizza sold by the wedge as a casual street food. In Sicily, sample arancini; delicious fried rice balls stuffed with different fillings. 

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A bamboo forest in Kyoto

It was one of the last countries to reopen to international tourism following coronavirus restrictions, but Japan is worth the wait. This year will be the first time in years holidaymakers can enter to enjoy the spring cherry blossom season, and so there’s no better time to plan your visit.

Your gateway is Tokyo - the country’s bustling, neon-clad capital filled with quirky shopping, bountiful kaiten (conveyor belt) sushi restaurants and buzzing karaoke bars. But the countryside beyond holds a magic kind of charm. Visit nearby Hakone on a day trip to relax in traditional hot springs, called onsen, or take in the giant stone Buddha statue near the seaside in atmospheric town Kamakura.

Then, hop on the shinkansen, also known as the ‘bullet train’, bound for Kyoto - the home of geishas, serene tea ceremonies and hundreds of atmospheric temples and shrines. The city is a complete contrast to Tokyo, with its bamboo forests and waterways lined in sakura (cherry blossom), but this is perhaps Japan at its most enchanting.

Top tip: Late March to mid-April is prime cherry blossom season in Japan, but it can also be a busy and expensive time to visit. If you want to save, September can be a good time to visit , as is February. Or try mid-to-late October for beautiful autumn leaves in hues of red and orange.

3. Gothenburg, Sweden

Overlooking epic architecture in Gothenburg

Sweden’s second city might not have the rambling royal palace of capital Stockholm, but it’s got another major asset: a beautiful nearby archipelago, easily reachable by public transport from the city center and a haven for walkers. The city is celebrating its 400th anniversary in 2023 (postponed from 2021) which means a host of special events, from exhibitions to a summer music and food festival.

The perfect size for a weekend, Gothenburg has plenty of culture; an art museum stuffed with works by Picasso and van Gogh, and beautiful botanic gardens lining the city’s canal. It’s also home to a romantic retro amusement park, Liseberg , featuring traditional fairground rides with a Scandinavian twist; as much entertainment for nostalgic adults as it is for children. Take time to explore the cobbled historic shopping and cafe district, Haga, stopping off for coffee and a warm cinnamon bun - a Scandi tradition known as fika. And of course, make some time to browse the shops; Scandanavian clothing brands are world-famous for a reason.

Top tip: When you’ve had your fill of the city, head out to the archipelago. An easy bus ride and ferry journey away from the center, Hӧnӧ island has seafood restaurants, cute boutiques and a beautiful west coast with pink-tinged boulders.

One of the world's most epic waterfalls, Kaieteur

Looking for a real adventure in 2023? You may never have considered South American country Guyana, but with new British Airways flights launching from March 2023, it’s set to be this year’s trendiest destination for intrepid travelers. 

The biggest draw is the scenery - wonders like Kaieteur Falls, the world’s largest single-drop waterfall, and boat rides along the Rupununi river where you can spot rare wildlife such as giant otters and jaguars. But as an added bonus there are also lovely eco-lodges, where you’ll be immersed in the natural landscapes. Historic, relaxed capital Georgetown is fascinating to visit too.

The most memorable moment, however? A wander along the Iwokrama Canopy Walkway , a rainforest-clad suspended bridge system with portions up to 30m in height and 154m in length. Its lofty platforms are the perfect place for spotting some of Guyana’s 800-plus species of birds, from the large silver cocoi heron to the bright red-and-green macaw. Don’t forget to pack your binoculars.

Top tip: Booking with a tour operator will be your best bet, as they’ll craft an expert itinerary for you and include guides and transfers. Journey Latin America and Wanderlust Explorers both have 15-day trips visiting wildlife spots, Kaieteur Falls and Iwokrama. 

5. Loire Valley, France

Spectacular exteriors at Blois in the Loire Valley

Looking to discover a new corner of France, beyond well-trodden Paris? Consider the Loire Valley, one of France’s least-visited - and most underrated - regions. This European hidden gem has everything you could look for in a French holiday, from opulent chateaux to delicious wines, vineyard tours and beautiful cycling routes. Not to mention a host of chic new hotel openings in the past two years that give fresh reasons to visit.

The area is large - about 300km in length - so unless you’ve got a week or more to explore, don’t try to see it all in one visit. Highlights for first-timers include Blois, Chambord and Amboise for superb chateaux; at the latter, you can also visit the grave of famed artist Leonard da Vinci. Meanwhile, Chaumont-sur-Loire’s serene landscaped grounds and contemporary art collection are not to be missed. Its annual International Garden Festival , held from April to November, draws visitors from around the globe.

Looking for a very special stay? Recently opened Loire Valley Lodges , a collection of designer treehouses in the forests of Touraine, and the grand Fleur de Loire in Blois are both glamorous spots that attract stylish weekenders from Paris.

Top tip: The Loire Valley is especially famous for producing excellent wines from Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc grapes. Try a tasting in Amboise at Caves Ambacia , where you can sip sweet Vouvray wines that have aged for decades in the local cellars.

6. British Columbia, Canada

A bear hunts for lunch in British Columbia

Soaring mountains and great open seas; dense forests and rich wildlife ranging from birds to bears - Canada’s far western province holds timeless appeal. If you’re looking for your first big adventure abroad in a few years, British Columbia will deliver jaw-dropping natural wonder, culture and active fun all in one tidy package.

Fly into Vancouver, a friendly seaside city with beaches and sprawling parks. From here the peaks of Whistler are just a short drive away - a hikers’ paradise in summertime - but if you’re looking for an experience that combines scenery with one-of-a-kind culture, try Haida Gwaii, an archipelago further north that’s blanketed in temperate rainforest. Here from indigenous Canadians you can learn the ancient stories of the land, stay in cozy oceanfront cabins and look for sea lions and whales. 

Meanwhile, back down south on Vancouver Island, you can kick back in Tofino, a laid-back surf town with more beautiful scenery. Or tour the historic provincial capital Victoria, bursting with pretty 19th-century architecture. 

Top tip: If you want to spot local wildlife, the best time to visit is in late spring through to early autumn - when bears are out of hibernation and Pacific Gray Whales migrate. However, if you’re a keen skier or looking for an unforgettable winter snow holiday , winter is a great time, when the slopes of snow-capped Whistler Blackcomb resort are ready for action.

Vast Luxor temple in Egypt

It might be home to some of the world’s most impressive ancient history, but this year Egypt is on the must-visit list thanks to its newest attraction: the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza. Years in the making, this will be the world’s largest archaeological museum and contain countless treasures, including the finds from Tutankhamun’s tomb (which, as it happens, was discovered exactly a century ago).

Gateway capital Cairo will naturally make it onto your agenda, of course; its historic corners, like the Babylon Fortress, are fascinating. But most of the true highlights lie beyond. In Giza, witness the grandeur of the pyramids; explore the statuesque Abu Simbel in Aswan and, in Luxor, discover the glory of the pharaohs. Soaking it all in is endlessly rewarding, but also exhausting - so, at the end of your trip, nothing beats a few days of unwinding at a Red Sea resort such as Sharm El Sheikh.

Top tip: A Nile cruise is another fantastic way to explore this ancient country, and in luxury and splendor too. But do note for some of the best - say, with Viking Cruises , which launches its new ship Aton this year - you’ll need to book a year or more in advance to secure a place as they sell out quickly. 

A church in Vik, southern Iceland

Beautiful scenery never goes out of fashion. Which is why, if you’re looking for an outdoor break this year that lets you experience pure, unadulterated wilderness, then Iceland is your place.

For a remote experience, head to Snaefellsnes Peninsula, north of the capital of Reykjavik. Set at the base of a volcano, overlooking the sea, self-catering Glacier Lodge is a comfy hideaway. When you aren’t observing the night skies - Iceland is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights - explore the vast nearby scenery of cliffs, cute fishing towns and dramatic peaks.

Or try Iceland’s south coast: a land of rushing waterfalls, glacier-topped mountains and black-sand beaches. In daylight, journey to seaside Vik to enjoy its otherworldly basalt columns, or explore the glacial lagoon at Jökulsárlón. Then curl up at wood-lined Hotel Ranga for a soak in the alfresco hot tubs, pool in the games room or a flaky cod feast in the gourmet onsite restaurant.

Top tip: Love to spa? Don’t forget to visit Iceland’s Blue Lagoon , a soothing hot spring just about a 45-minute drive from Reykjavik. The thermal waters shimmer a bright turquoise blue thanks to a high concentration of silica, a natural compound that is excellent for your skin.

Pink flamingos are found in Aruba

Basking under rays in the south Caribbean Sea, Aruba is a hot ticket this year - least of all because British Airways will begin flying there from March 2023 (naturally making it one of the best places to visit in March !). And it’s about time; this compact Dutch-influenced island has all you’re probably looking for in a Caribbean break, from beautiful soft beaches to fresh seafood. 

Because the island is small, you can see the sights - from capital Oranjestad to the rambling Arikok National Park - in hardly any time at all, which leaves plenty of time for R&R on your sun-drenched lounger. Pack a few page-turner novels and settle in at west-facing Eagle Beach, low-key and perfect for sunset hour, or Palm Beach, lined with resorts.

When it’s time for a bit of refreshment, hit the water. Hadicurari Beach in the north of Aruba is known for its winds, making it ideal for windsurfers and kite surfers. Or you can approach the waves more gently, signing up for a sunset boat trip instead.

Top tip: For such a small island, Aruba has a lively nightlife scene, ranging from beach bars to casinos and cocktail lounges. If you want to keep things more low-key, choose a resort away from bustling Palm Beach.

10. Manchester, UK

Manchester was named a must-visit in 2023 by Lonely Planet

The experts at Lonely Planet named Manchester as a ‘best in travel’ destination for 2023 - the only UK city to bag this honor - and it’s little wonder why. With the Manchester Museum soon reopening after a facelift and a new Factory International building on the way to exhibit the creative arts, there’s plenty of buzz happening in this British center, making it easily one of the best UK weekend getaways . 

You’ll have to explore the Northern Quarter, of course; a neighborhood full of trendy restaurants, cool shops and galleries, as well as street art and cafes. Contrast it with an architectural turn around Albert Square, which has a neo-gothic town hall and an impressive central library to enjoy.

The hotel scene has gotten seriously exciting of late, too. Check into the plush Stock Exchange Hotel , set in a Grade-II listed building and with a restaurant by celebrity chef Tom Kerridge. Or make a booking at the soon-to-launch Treehouse Hotel Manchester , a playful brand opening near Manchester cathedral this spring.

Top tip: Stock up on handmade homewares, textiles or jewelry at Manchester Craft and Design Centre in Northern Quarter. With more than 20 studios on site, you can see artisans at work as well as shop for local goodies.

The Travel Editor of Woman & Home and Woman's Weekly, Alicia has spent more than a decade writing about the world's best holidays and has visited more than 50 countries for her work. She is a regular contributor to The Sunday Times, National Geographic Traveller, Evening Standard, The Independent and Decanter magazine, among other titles, and was named AITO Travel Writer of the Year in 2023.

While she originally hails from Canada, Alicia lived in France and Japan before settling in the UK. Her favourite travel destination is still Tokyo - the mix of lively karaoke bars, delicious sushi and amazing shopping draws her back for visits again and again. She's always counting down the days until her next trip.

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The top 10 travel destinations for 2023

To help you find the ultimate travel hotspots for next year, Booking.com has delved into global booking trends** to share the top 10 trending destinations for 2023 – combined with tips from Booking.com’s community of travellers. From spiritual seaside towns to artistic capitals and hidden gems, this list of the top 10 on-trend places, experiences and stays is sure to inspire a year of incredible travel.

São Paulo, Brazil

The energetic metropolis of São Paulo is home to 20 million locals known as ‘paulistanos’ and a buzzing nightlife scene, with underground clubs, art house cinemas, experimental theatre and Traditional Samba and Pagode Experiences . The city also lays claim to fantastic street food and nine of Brazil ’s 14 Michelin-starred restaurants, where you can sample delicacies including the ‘coxinha’ (a golden shredded chicken croquette) and the ‘feijoada’ (a rich black bean stew). For fashion-lovers, a stroll down Rua Oscar Freire – a tree-lined street with glossy, luxurious boutiques – is a must. Or for some real downtime, escape the city with a short drive to the northern coast of the state of São Paulo, a hidden gem where the beaches rival those in Rio.

Traveller tip from Daniele: “I'd recommend dinner at Skye Restaurant & Bar on the rooftop of Hotel Unique . Or Terraço Itália, a restaurant at the top of the Edificio Italia skyscraper, to enjoy breathtaking urban views and taste local cuisine.”

Where to stay: L´Hotel Portobay São Paulo , just a short walk to São Paulo's vibrant Avenida Paulista and the Modern Art Museum. Enjoy a caipirinha, Brazil’s national cocktail made from cachaça, sugar and lime at the piano bar.

Budva, Montenegro

If what you want from a trip next year is to relax on a beach, Budva in western Montenegro is the perfect European destination to visit. Located on the shores of the Adriatic Sea, the town boasts a long, winding coastline known as the Budva Riviera, where golden sand is lapped by crystal clear water. Budva’s medieval old town features Venetian stone walls, cobbled streets and restaurants serving fresh grilled seafood, including local speciality – octopus. For those seeking adventure, explore Boka Bay on a Mamula Island, Blue Cave & Lady of the Rocks Tour (travellers can swim and snorkel at the Blue Cave and are even able to enter a submarine tunnel). At night, Budva comes alive with bars and clubs headlined by famous techno and house DJs for dancing the night away.

Where to stay: Apartments Inspiration offers studio, one-bed and family apartments just a short walk from the old town and beach. Enjoy balconies with views of the town, surrounding mountains and sea, and dinners on the terrace overlooking the fiery Mediterranean sunset.

Puducherry, India

The seaside city of Puducherry (previously known as Pondicherry) sits on the southeast coast of India facing the Bay of Bengal. Nicknamed ‘Pondy’, it attracts spiritually minded visitors keen to visit its ashrams to partake in yoga and meditation. The best way to get around is cycling through the leafy boulevards or on a Customised Private Walking Tour , wandering quaint, historic streets lined with pastel-coloured townhouses and balconies draped with pink bougainvillaeas. Tranquil beaches stretch north and south from town but Mahe Beach is the best spot to watch an incredible sunrise. And throughout the year, a kaleidoscope of festivities and religious celebrations allow visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture.

Traveller tip from Saurabh: “Concept store and café Baker Street serves the best French baguettes and pastries in town. Enjoy coffee at The Hidden Garden Café by Rock Beach and stay nearby, as this is the most fun area. The best way to explore is to rent a 2-wheeler motor vehicle – and be sure to visit the experimental township of Auroville, just outside the city.”

Where to stay: traditional B&B, Anantha Heritage , is a beautifully restored, high-ceilinged Tamil house behind a temple and sacred pool. The property is close to the Goubert Bazaar, one of the oldest markets in the city, as well as being just a short walk to the beach.

Querétaro, Mexico

The city of Querétaro in Mexico can be found in the central highlands, possessing a blissful, spring-like climate thanks to the altitude. Just a short drive away, you’ll find one of the world’s largest monoliths, Peña de Bernal. You can scale the remains of this old volcano, rising majestically 1421 feet into the sky. The region is also home to Sierra Gorda, a biosphere reserve known as the ‘green jewel’ of Mexico on account of its forest-cloaked mountains, valleys and canyons. Back in town, travellers can stroll past fountains, plazas and historic churches before making a pitstop at the Mercado La Cruz, a market crammed with tasty taco stands and colourful pinatas. Finish the day here with a glass of fizz, a speciality from the Querétaro wine region.

Where to stay: located in the historic centre of Querétaro, the blue-washed Morazul Hotel Boutique features old stone walls, tiled floors, wood-beamed ceilings and four-poster beds.

Bolzano, Italy

The capital of Italy ’s northernmost South Tyrol region, Bolzano is an idyllic alpine destination situated amid the snow-capped mountains of the Italian Dolomites. You can hike here in summer or head to one of the acclaimed ski resorts in winter. You’ll also discover medieval castles and the gothic Duomo di Bolzano, a cathedral whose imposing spires contrast with the city’s painted houses. For a modern culture fix, the Museion is a gallery full of contemporary paintings and sculptures. This region of Italy is renowned for its full-bodied wines and you can pay a visit to the Santa Maria Maddalena Church for breathtaking views of rolling vineyards and wine-tastings. A Group Market Tour with Cooking Class offers the chance to explore local markets and even visit the host’s home to prepare Italian aperitivo.

Traveller tip from Luca: “Try Castel Flavon – you eat very well and the view is very beautiful. And take an excursion to the Dolomites though I recommend relying on an alpine guide (who can be hired locally)."

Where to stay: with views of the Dolomites, Castel Hörtenberg is a refurbished Renaissance castle in the centre of Bolzano with wood panelling, wine cellar and luxury spa.

Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Known locally as ‘KK’, the bustling capital of Sabah in the Malaysian part of the island of Borneo is a hidden gem surrounded by rainforests and sandy beaches. By day, browse exquisite pearls, textiles and wood carvings crafted by artisans at the Kota Kinabalu Handicraft Market. Or make a beeline to Tanjung Aru Beach, a local hotspot. Visit the Floating Seafood Market restaurant for excellent butter prawns and soft-shell crab, as well as cultural performances. The ecosystems around Kota Kinabalu are home to unique wildlife, best observed from a boat during an Evening River Safari ; look out for views of Mount Kinabalu along the Nanamun River, as well as the native proboscis monkey and come dusk, thousands of fireflies lighting up the evening sky.

Where to stay: check into Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu opposite the city’s waterfront market for modern accommodation in the heart of the action – head to the beach for snorkelling or recline on one of the poolside cabanas with a cocktail.

Kalabaka, Greece

Located in the Thessaly Valley, the scenic Greek town of Kalabaka guards the Meteora, a mighty rock formation that’s home to several Eastern Orthodox monasteries. Appearing suspended in the air against a backdrop of emerald hills, this 1,300-feet-high, 13th-century site was built by monks seeking solitude. Today, it offers otherworldly views to those exploring on foot. Take a Meteora Sunset Tour and discover the thousand-year-old Badovas hermit caves and monastery frescoes before watching the sunset across the valley. For foodies, there’s a bustling market every Friday and local restaurants serving meatballs, moussaka and slow-cooked stews. To dig even deeper, the town’s Natural History Museum organises truffle hunting tours followed by tantalising fresh truffle pasta.

Traveller tip from Stefano: “Meteoron Panorama Restaurant is a tavern that offers traditional Greek dishes well-prepared and at an honest price. You eat on a terrace at the foot of the Meteora.”

Where to stay: between the Meteora and the town centre, the Hotel Doupiani House offers guests great views and a delicious breakfast of fresh fruit grown from the hotel’s own garden.

Santa Fe, United States

The uniqueness of Santa Fe is encapsulated in its nickname, ‘The City Different’. Explore its unparalleled multicultural heritage via the vibrant food scene, with myriad Mexican food trucks and open-air markets, and appreciate indigenous culture at the Museum of Contemporary Native Arts. Santa Fe is also the United States ’ highest state capital and sits at the foot of the Sangre de Cristo range, making it a great base for hiking, mountain biking and skiing. Adrenaline-seekers can venture into the mountains for rock climbing, paragliding or white water rafting.* Try a Downtown Santa Fe Photography Tour & Class to meet and learn from a Sante Fe resident while admiring the city’s historic architecture.

Traveller tip from Tracy: “My favourite Santa Fe restaurants would be Geronimo, The Shed and Sazon. These places are southwestern style and some of them are like a hacienda with a cantina-style bar.”

Where to stay: The Bobcat Inn is a B&B just a short drive from the city centre and various hiking trails, with a courtyard and BBQ, mountain views, and a garden perfect for stargazing.

Olomouc, Czech Republic

For travellers keen to explore lesser-known places next year, the historic Czech Republic city of Olomouc is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Located in the Haná region of Moravia, it dates back to Roman times and has everything from grand architecture and microbreweries to rich gastronomy – the local Olomoucké tvarůžky soft cheese is a must-try. The well-preserved old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the Holy Trinity Column, which rises nearly 115 feet in height in the main square, is one of the baroque wonders of Central Europe. Enjoy views of the column from the nearby Town Hall Tower, as well as the beautiful Jeseniky Mountains.

Where to stay: The central Long Story Short Hostel & Café is set in an 18th-century fort and offers a pétanque court, BBQ, plus café and terrace bar with live music events and movie nights.

Hobart, Australia

There are few destinations where travellers can climb a mountain, head to the beach and visit a world-class art gallery all in one day, but Hobart is one such place. The world-renowned Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) placed Hobart on the global cultural map. But the nature here is equally astounding; the capital of Tasmania is the southernmost capital in Australia , is framed by Mount Wellington and sits on the River Derwent. Explore the city’s poetically beautiful surroundings via kayak, or try abseiling and surfing for added thrills. And if even that’s not enough, sign up for a Learn-to-fly Experience , gliding over the city in a plane under the guidance of a qualified instructor.

Where to stay: Maylands Lodge is an old landmark property and luxury hotel, just a short drive from the city centre and waterfront, with rooms that feature mountain or garden views.

**Destinations had to be in the top 1,000 most booked on Booking.com between 1 August 2021 and 31 July 2022. The resulting list was sorted by year-over-year increase and destinations with a large decrease in the share of domestic bookings were removed. This was to ensure that the list represents destinations that have managed to maintain domestic interest (as well as international), even in the face of loosening COVID-related travel restrictions.

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Vote for your favorite summer travel destination!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Whether you're hitting the road with the family or embarking on a solo adventure, summer is the peak season for travel in the United States. There are so many endlessly compelling sights to see and things to do throughout this country's millions of square miles, from picturesque national parks to sleepy mountain towns to breathtakingly beautiful beaches. An expert panel has nominated their 20 must-see places for a summer vacation, and we need your help to crown the best of the best. Which summer travel destination is your favorite spot? Vote once per day until voting ends on Monday, May 13 at noon ET. The 10 winners will be announced on Wednesday, May 22.  Read the official Readers' Choice rules .

Whether you're hitting the road with the family or embarking on a solo adventure, summer is the peak season for travel in the United States. There are so many endlessly compelling sights to see and things to do...   Read More

Best Summer Travel Destination Nominees

Photo courtesy of The Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce

Bar Harbor, Maine

Located on Mount Desert Island, this quaint small town is known as a gateway to iconic Acadia National Park and is a popular cruise stop. During a visit, be sure to spend time in Bar Harbor's idyllic downtown, which is home to a plethora of top-tier eateries, small boutiques, and art galleries.

Photo courtesy of Melanie LeDuc / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Black Hills & Badlands, South Dakota

Situated in South Dakota, set about 70 miles apart, the Black Hills and Badlands offer an experience full of history, geological wonders, and stunning views. The area is home to the famous Mt. Rushmore, which receives more than 2 million visitors a year.

Photo courtesy of pabradyphoto / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Capitol Reef Country, Utah

Nestled in southern Utah, Capitol Reef Country incorporates Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Arches national parks. Because of their proximity to each other, this makes for an excellent road trip adventure where you’ll get to see the striking geologic strata that makes this area unique. 

Photo courtesy of Jasper Chamber / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Catalina Island, California

Catalina Island, which stretches 22 miles, is an ideal coastal destination in California. Historically significant because it’s been the filming location for more than 500 films, TV shows, and commercials over the past 90 years, this family-friendly destination is also well-known for its pristine beaches, outdoor activities, and sumptuous seafood. 

Photo courtesy of Cody Yellowstone

Cody, Wyoming

This rugged mountain town is the gateway to Yellowstone National Park, and it's known as the "Rodeo Capital of the World," offering you a glimpse into the Wild West. Named after Buffalo Bill Cody, Cody, Wyoming, features sweeping views, hearty and authentic cowboy fare, and many opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Photo courtesy of Dan Eggert/Destination Door County

Door County, Wisconsin

For an unexpected lakeside vacation spot, it’s hard to beat Wisconsin’s Door County, home to 300 miles of shoreline along Lake Michigan and every water sport you can imagine. Paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, water skiing, and even scuba diving around shipwrecks are all among the aquatic activities available throughout this Midwestern destination. For those who prefer staying on land, there’s also a solid beer and wine scene, art galleries to explore, plus hiking, biking, and more at their five state parks. 

Photo courtesy of UpdogDesigns / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Finger Lakes, New York

New York's Finger Lakes region comprises 11 lakes in upstate New York, offering an ideal summer getaway by the water. The area is well-recognized for its rieslings, so you’ll want to book a wine tasting at one of the many wineries while visiting. And if you have little ones in tow, visit the Seabreeze Amusement Park, where you can enjoy a number of rides and attractions. 

Photo courtesy of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama

Alabama's Gulf Coast offers 32 miles of pristine white sand beaches and cerulean blue waters, and it's home to an amazing restaurant scene. This spot is popular with families because of the many outdoor activities available for all ages. Whether you want to relax on the beach, head out on a kayaking expedition, or venture to an amusement park, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. 

Photo courtesy of Jody O for Travel Juneau

Juneau, Alaska

Juneau is an eclectic mountain town boasting over 250 miles of hiking trails, as well as a walkable, charming downtown. Situated on Gastineau Channel, the city offers plenty of opportunities to get on the water. It's also home to diverse wildlife, rich in Indigenous history, and full of lovely accommodations. You’ll find this one of Alaska’s ultimate gems, especially in the summer.

Photo courtesy of Alex Byers

Laurel Highlands, Pennsylvania

If you love the great outdoors, you’ll be smitten with Laurel Highlands, which sits in southwestern Pennsylvania. It’s approximately 3,000 square miles and includes three counties: Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland. Visit Fallingwater, which is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and one of architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s most acclaimed works. For thrill-seekers, book a white-water rafting excursion in Ohiopyle State Park. The park also offers numerous challenging hikes where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views.

Photo courtesy of Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, you’ll find Mackinac Island, where you’ll ride on horse-drawn carriages along car-free roads, observe fudge being made (and then sample it), and tour the historic Fort Mackinac. This Lake Huron-based continental island is also home to Mackinac Island State Park, where you can hike, bike, kayak, and take photos of the local natural beauty, including the stunning limestone Arch Rock.

Photo courtesy of Ocean City, MD Tourism

Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City, Maryland, is the quintessential beach town, offering laid-back vibes, old-fashioned boardwalk treats, and beautiful sandy beaches. Head over to a bustling arcade, get in line for a thrill at Trimper Rides, or simply sit back with a good book and dig your feet into the sand.

Photo courtesy of Ocean City Chamber of Commerce

Ocean City, New Jersey

This family-friendly vacation spot on the Jersey Shore is known for its exciting boardwalk, with shops and eateries galore, views of the Atlantic, plus vintage amusement parks. Playland’s Castaway Cove is one such park, with go-karts, thrill rides including roller coasters, a fun house, and mini golf. And if parks aren’t your thing, there’s miles and miles of relaxing beaches on which to get in some sun and swimming.

Photo courtesy of Katie Jones via San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau

San Juan Islands, Washington

While there are some 176 islands and reefs that make up the San Juan Islands, the main four — San Juan, Orcas, Lopez, and Shaw — are serviced by the state ferry system and offer accommodations for tourists. While these islands are diverse and offer different experiences, they all feature spectacular vistas of the Salish Sea, with plenty of water and land activities to keep everyone busy. Accommodations range from hotels and resorts to small inns, vacation rentals, and camping sites.

Photo courtesy of Shores & Islands Ohio

Sandusky, Ohio

Home to Cedar Point amusement park, which has over 150 rides and attractions, Sandusky is an ideal family-friendly vacation spot. The town is also home to a picturesque downtown with art galleries, boutiques, and a thriving culinary scene. Visit the Maritime Museum of Sandusky for a look at the city’s history, or head to the Sandusky State Theatre and take in a performance. 

Photo courtesy of Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism

Sevier County, Tennessee

Sevier County, Tennessee, is widely known as a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most visited national parks in the United States. Three towns are ideal spots for setting up base camp while visiting the region: Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg. Offering everything from picture-perfect scenery to Dollywood to the state’s only ski resort, there's plenty to see and do in the area.

Photo courtesy of NPS Photo/J. Baird

South Rim - Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Probably the exact location you're picturing when you think of the Grand Canyon, the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park is an iconic American destination worthy of many a bucket list. Check out Grand Canyon Village during a visit, which offers a range of attractions and accommodations. It’s also the site of the Grand Canyon Railway Depot, which is still in service today and takes visitors on a scenic ride, where you might spot wildlife such as elk, deer, and mountain lions.

Photo courtesy of Space Coast Office of Tourism

Space Coast, Florida

Situated on Florida’s Atlantic shore, the Space Coast area is recognized as the home of the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, where Apollo 11 lifted off for its moon landing mission. The region is also a hub of activities, including water sports, cruise excursions, fishing, and golfing. It's also a great spot for lazy beach days.

Photo courtesy of Swain County NC Chamber of Commerce

Swain County, North Carolina

Swain County, home to charming Bryson City, is a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The area is overflowing with hiking trails, scenic waterfalls, golfing, and water activities. You'll find opportunities for tubing, as well as white-water rafting, with the Nantahala Outdoor Center offering 500 acres of adventure.

Photo courtesy of OKRAD / E+ Getty Images

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach’s 3-mile long boardwalk is a major draw for those that visit this town, known for its maritime history and family-friendly appeal. It comprises three beach areas: Virginia Beach, Chesapeake Bay, and Sandbridge Beach, which stretches for 35 miles, making it the world’s longest pleasure beach in the world. With a flourishing downtown and amazing restaurants, Virginia Beach makes for a great summer escape.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Chelle koster walton.

Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for...   Read More

Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for Naples, Florida and the Caribbean — has been covering the destination for 30 years. Her top-selling  Sarasota, Sanibel Island, and Naples  guidebook (Countryman Press) is in its sixth edition. She was contributing editor for  Caribbean Travel & Life  for 12 years and has written guidebooks on the Bahamas. A veteran travel writer, Chelle has published thousands of articles for  Miami Herald, USA TODAY, Latitudes;  has written/contributed to a dozen guidebooks, and produces travel shows for the local PBS station.

Chez Chesak

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50...   Read More

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50 countries, many of them with her children in tow. She loves visiting everything from theme parks to ancient ruins and packs strictly carry-on-only. Jamie can be reached at [email protected].

Jenny Peters

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los...   Read More

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los Angeles-based freelance journalist, editor and party columnist specializing in travel, entertainment, film, food, wine, fashion and the other good things in life. She is a founding/voting member of the Critics Choice Association, who present the Critics’ Choice Awards every January. Her favorite places to be are on the beach in Southern California playing volleyball, scuba diving with the sharks in warm tropical waters or strolling the streets and soaking in the atmosphere of one of the world's great cities (New Orleans and Florence are her favorites).

Meg St-Esprit

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh...   Read More

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh who covers family travel, lifestyle, education, and parenting. With their four kids in tow, she and her husband love to travel anywhere and everywhere — but have a soft spot for camping and outdoor adventures. In fact, her kids are well on their way to achieving their goal of visiting all 124 state parks in Pennsylvania. Meg believes travel doesn’t need to be luxurious or costly to be valuable, and aims to share that with her audience. Meg’s work has appeared in publications such as  The New York Times, Thrillist, The Washington Post, Fodor’s, Yahoo, Good Housekeeping, Romper , and more. Follow Meg on Instagram and Twitter at @megstesprit or check out her work on  https://megstesprit.com/

Melanie Reffes

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in...   Read More

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

Molly O'Brien

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance...   Read More

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance travel journalist, who writes and edits for a variety of international travel and lifestyle outlets including Fodor’s Travel, Travel + Leisure, and Business Insider among others. She's lived on both coasts from Massachusetts to California and has so far made Greater Boston, the San Francisco Bay Area, San Luis Obispo, Barcelona, and Los Angeles her home.  Molly earned her journalism degree at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo on the Central Coast of California and since then has worked professionally in the fields of hospitality and travel PR and most recently, as a freelance travel writer and editor. Molly especially enjoys covering feature profiles about interesting people doing interesting things such as chocolate making, beekeeping, wing-walking, and interesting destinations like under-the-radar wine spots, the best brewery towns, and lesser-known ski destinations.  She also loves to write about a boutique hotel with a good story. When she's not writing, Molly enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring new coffee shops and breweries, and of course, traveling.  Her favorite city in the world (so far) is Barcelona, Spain, but she loves traveling anywhere that offers sunny weather and ample hiking opportunities. She loves spending time in the mountains, enjoys connecting with nature through camping and glamping adventures, and is always up for learning about the world through fun, immersive experiences (and then sharing those stories!).  You can connect with Molly here:  Instagram: @metropolitanmolly Twitter: @Molly_A_OBrien Facebook: @MetropolitanMolly LinkedIn: @mollyannobrien www.metropolitanmolly.com

Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival...   Read More

Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival Guide  (being released May 25, 2021) and  the founder of 2TravelDads , the original LGBT Family Travel blog. Focusing on ecotourism and education, 2TravelDads inspires LGBT families (and traditional families also) to go beyond their usual getaways and use travel to learn about and be part of a bigger world. 2TravelDads blazes the way for other two-dad and two-mom families to travel to previously overlooked destinations or places we as gay people would normally avoid. We share the struggles we've faced and the surprising gems and welcomes we've had along the way. Traveling as a family is one thing, traveling as an LGBT family is completely something else.

Tamara Gane

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best...   Read More

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. She's based in Reno/Lake Tahoe and in addition to USA Today 10Best, her work has been published in Travel & Leisure, Fodor's Travel, The Washington Post, SF Gate, Houston Chronicle, Lonely Planet, and more.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

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Travel + Leisure’s 2024 It List.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

Elizabeth Rhodes/Travel + Leisure

For the first time, we’re spotlighting new cruise ships on Travel + Leisure ’s It List, as these exceptional vessels become more and more like floating resorts — celebrity chefs, crystal chandeliers, and Rolex boutiques included.

Explora Journeys’ Explora I

Paul Brady/Travel + Leisure

It’s not every day a new cruise line arrives. The debut of the remarkable Explora I was a moment years in the making for Explora Journeys , the upstart luxury operator that aims to bring a European sensibility to the world of vacations at sea. So far, the project is a smashing success, thanks to the ship’s low-key vibe, standout food and beverage, and intriguing itineraries that visit in-demand ports in Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean. My own August 2023 trip on Explora I , from Copenhagen to Hamburg, Germany, included fulfilling visits to places such as Oslo and the town of Stavanger, Norway, a gateway to adventurous hiking with a postcard-perfect Old Town. The ship itself was also a destination, with its abundance of outdoor space — including an alfresco fitness center — and pools at seemingly every turn. The 461 suites, all of them with balconies, are filled with luxurious touches such as Frette linens and robes, heated marble floors, and Dyson hair dryers. But Explora I truly shines when it comes to food: During the week I was aboard, it was impossible to find a bad meal — and I was often astonished at the quality of, in particular, the pasta served in the Emporium Marketplace and the sushi on offer at Sakura, two of the nine restaurants aboard. The most ambitious of them all is Anthology, a rotating-chef concept that has seen a residency from seafood whiz Mario Ulaissi, known for his Michelin three-starred restaurant on Italy's Adriatic coast, and that recently welcomed Emma Bengtsson, from Aquavit , in New York City. Much has been made of Explora I ’s Rolex boutique — the first on any cruise ship — but for my money, the other shops on board were more interesting: The company has tapped family-owned businesses around the world to create capsule collections of resort wear, handbags, fragrances, sunglasses, and beautiful gifts that can’t be found elsewhere. From $2,050 per person for a six-day sailing. Accessible ship. — Paul Brady

Oceania Cruises’ Vista

Nick Tortajada/Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

The new Oceania Vista is in a class of its own; no really, it’s the first in Oceania Cruises ’ new Allura class. Of its 11 bars and restaurants, three are entirely new to the Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings–owned brand — including a high-end cocktail spot called Founders’ Bar, serving 26 intricate drinks that use house-made syrups and top-shelf booze like Whistle Pig and parsley-infused Grey Goose. As Oceania levels up, the cruise line has produced a ship that feels more like a floating resort than the vessels that came before. There’s pickleball; a health-conscious restaurant, Aquamar, serving made-to-order salads and pressed juices; and a coffee shop that looks like one in walking distance of my home in L.A. (marble counters, gold accents, leather bar stools) and pulls an espresso shot of similar quality. Vista has more suites than others in the Oceania fleet, too: There are 14 Oceania Suites (up to 1,200 square feet); eight Vista Suites (up to 1,850 square feet); and three Owner’s Suites with Ralph Lauren Home decor and two massive terraces (2,400 square feet). But the most hotel-like touch? A celebrity chef–driven restaurant, Toscana, where Giada De Laurentiis — the ship’s godmother — supplied two recipes for the menu. As someone who watched a lot of Everyday Italian in the early aughts, I was particularly excited to try her signature, Capri-inspired lemon spaghetti, and lemon-cream sauce with grilled shrimp and capers didn’t disappoint. From $2,499 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ sixth ship, the Seven Seas Grandeur , sailed its inaugural season in December, joining sibling ships Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Splendor as the newest member of the luxury fleet. The cruise line is a favorite among T+L readers for its gorgeous ships and all-inclusive pricing that covers unlimited shore excursions, dining at specialty restaurants, and even round-trip airfare. Grandeur lives up to its name thanks to stunning, art-filled spaces designed by cruise ship interior experts Studio Dado: signature restaurant Compass Rose is enchanting with interiors inspired by a fairy-tale forest; the Observation Lounge sparkles with an undulating chandelier and swanky bar; and the $11,000-per-night Regent Suite has a private en suite spa and custom Treesse mini pool. As I boarded Grandeur for the ship’s inaugural sailing, I was mesmerized by the grand staircase and glittering chandelier. And with a maximum capacity of 744 guests, I found it easy to take time to myself in the myriad of quiet spots tucked throughout the ship, whether in the Serene Spa and Wellness area, in the Library, or on the Sports Deck overlooking the ocean. Seven restaurants include specialty steakhouse Prime 7, pan-Asian restaurant Pacific Rim, and breakfast and lunch buffet La Veranda, which refines the cruise buffet experience with daily specials like paella and sushi. Several bars and lounges, a pool and hot tubs, a casino, Broadway-style productions, and cooking classes at the Culinary Arts Kitchen make the ship a destination in itself, though guests will want to take advantage of those included excursions on Caribbean, Central American, North American, and European itineraries, ranging from seven to 16 nights, during the ship’s 2024 season. From $4,669 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — Elizabeth Rhodes

Silversea’s Silver Nova

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Carrying 728 passengers, Silver Nova is big for the luxury sector, but boasts a hugely important metric: a capacious passenger space ratio — that is, the number of guests relative to the size of the ship. Simply put, this ship offers more elbow room per passenger than almost any other cruise vessel. Silver Nova is wrapped in glass, with an asymmetrical layout; the funnel is positioned off-center, so is the pool, offering an expansive, uncluttered pool deck. Many features of the brand-new ship recall previous Silversea successes, my favorite of which is the S.A.L.T. (Sea And Land Taste) program, expanded for Silver Nova . S.A.L.T. perks include a gorgeous, sea-facing lab for hands-on culinary lessons (at no additional cost), plus a new concept, the Chef’s Table, where an 11-course menu is prepared for just 24 diners. All facets of the S.A.L.T. ecosystem, including ingredients, a bar, lectures, and shore excursions, are keyed to the region Nova is sailing. While food is a drawing card for Silver Nova , accommodations also received a revamp. Tied to the theme of bringing the outside in, there are brilliant new suites found in the aft starboard corner of the ship, with wraparound balconies revealing a 270-degree view.  This is where you can tuck me in when I win the lottery and head off on a world cruise. But until then, Silver Nova will summer in Alaska and spend northern hemisphere winters in Australia and New Zealand, places where top-deck views should prove ceaselessly rewarding. From $3,250 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — David Swanson

It List 2024

More From Forbes

The 20 best places to travel in the u.s. in 2023, according to the experts.

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For the past three years, with borders closed around the globe, U.S. travel has provided Americans with much-needed solace—a tonic during a time of uncertainty and fear. We rediscovered national parks, we explored this country’s hidden shores and we found new appreciation for America’s wide open spaces.

Despite the fact that many international countries have reopened to travelers, domestic travel remains strong, according to the U.S. Travel Association —proving that there’s still a lot to discover close to home.

A view of Avila Beach, along the Central Coast of California, one of the best places to travel in ... [+] 2023.

So what are the best places to travel right now? Every year, I round up the best places to visit in America. Once again, I tapped into leading women travel experts and influencers to find out their favorite places to travel in the U.S. in 2023. I also opened my own little black book to reveal the destinations that are on my radar.

This year, the top choices for where to go span the country from coast to coast, ranging from seaside escapes to mountain hideaways to urban hot spots, with some surprises thrown in along the way. Compare these choices to 2022’s list of the best places to travel in America , and it’s clear that the U.S. is the travel gift that keeps on giving.

Road tripping in Phoenix, which is one of the best places to travel in the US in 2023.

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Best 5% interest savings accounts of september 2023, where to go: phoenix, arizona.

Chosen By : Lucee Santini is a travel writer and lifestyle blogger who has contributed to Huffington Post , SheBuysTravels and Newsbreak and is the chief editor and writer for MomJunky.com. She shares her adventures and tips on Instagram @ momjunky.com and @familytraveldestinations.

Why : Phoenix made headlines recently as the host of Superbowl LVII, the kickoff location of Taylor Swift’s tour and the home of the MLB Spring Training. But there’s so much to experience in Greater Phoenix in 2023—one of the fastest growing cities in the U.S.—not to mention the natural beauty that made it a must-visit destination in the first place. “The Valley of the Sun is known for sunny weather all year around, beautiful hikes and scenic landscapes,” says Lucee Santini, who is a big fan of spots like the Desert Botanical Garden , a 144-acre oasis in the middle of the desert.

The city is in the midst of a $23 million redesign of South Mountain Park and Preserve—America’s biggest urban park—that will culminate with the park’s 100th anniversary in 2024. “Stay at WorldMark Phoenix - South Mountain Preserve ,” says Santini. “It’s the perfect home base to explore nearby trails and catch an amazing show or exhibition.”

Over the next year, Phoenix will see the opening of several major resorts, including Moxy Phoenix Downtown (set in a 1920’s Luhrs building), The Ritz-Carlton Paradise Valley, The Palmeraie (overlooking Camelback Mountain) and the $1 billion VAI (complete with white-sand beaches, a 52,000-square-foot party island and the Mattel Adventure Park).

Some iconic properties are also getting overhauled. The Wigwam , an historic resort with luxury casitas and suites in the West Valley, will undergo a comprehensive renovation in 2023. Look for two expansive swimming pools, bocce and tennis courts, as well as an enhanced golf club with 54 holes of championship golf including two courses designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. Meanwhile, JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa recently debuted an $80 million transformation and will soon be unveiling a reimagined AquaRidge Water Park, as well as a new Pan-Asian restaurant concept, Kembara.

The Phoenix metropolitan area’s food and wine scene is also exploding, with exciting entries like Chic Chef 77 (Arizona’s first Black-owned wine bar from celebrity chef Nik Fields) and Chilte (Mexican street food at the Grand Avenue Arts District’s new Egyptian Motor Hotel). The drinks scene is also making global headlines , thanks to trend-defining spots like Platform 18 and UnderTow , which have established a new brand of cocktail theater.

Talley Farms Vineyard in San Luis Obispo on the Central Coast of California.

Where to Go: Central Coast, California

Chosen By: Molly O’Brien is a freelance journalist.

Why: The Central Coast of California—stretching from Santa Barbara to San Luis Obispo—is undergoing a renaissance, with new and renovated hotels, expanded wine offerings and a burgeoning culinary scene, not to mention a unique vibe. “Something special just opens up inside of you when you're on the Central Coast,” says Molly O’Brien. “Perhaps it’s the warmth of the community that welcomes you, or the abundance of open space to explore, or maybe it’s the freshness of the ingredients used in the local dining and drinks scene—you can feel yourself almost instantly relax and let go of your stresses.”

In Santa Barbara—which is also known as America’s very own Riviera—the new tech-driven boutique hotel, Drift Santa Barbara , officially opened its doors in early 2023 in a restored 1920s building, offering contactless check-in, a third-wave coffee shop and eatery (Dawn) and a craft bar (Dusk) inspired by Mexican heritage. The Steward , a new Tribute Portfolio Marriott Hotel, is set to make its debut in May. Set on nearly five acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, this all-suite boutique hotel has a deep commitment to sustainability, from eliminating single-use plastics to using staff uniforms made of vegan materials.

The area’s art and food scene is also buzzing. The former Bellosguardo estate will open to the public for the first time later in 2023, while the Urban Wine Trail is welcoming numerous new tasting rooms, including La Lieff Wines and Frequency Wine Co. Among Santa Barbara's culinary newcomers are the Rosewood Miramar Beach's AMA restaurant (which serves authentic Japanese sushi in a beautiful setting) and Augie's tequila bar and restaurant (which features the largest selection of tequilas and mezcals on the West Coast, including local agave spirits).

There’s lots of other exciting news in 2023 throughout the Central Coast—from the latest American Viticultural Area , which is growing in size, to new restaurants like the Italian-inspired Cielo (opening in Atascadero) and Antigua Brewing Company (set to open in San Luis Obispo). The wine-tasting destination of Paso Robles now boasts a new Michelin star at Six Test Kitchen and the town will soon be home to two Nomada Hotel Group properties: the Farmhouse and River Lodge, offering easy access to the quaint downtown area. What’s old is also new: In the once forgotten frontier town of Pozo, the Nomada Hotel Group is transforming the iconic Pozo Saloon into a modern day travel escape with Airstreams, glamping tents, RV hookups for sprinter vans, outdoor soaking tubs and a distillery.

Exploring San Francisco.

Where to Go: San Francisco, California

Chosen By: Emily Carmichael is the managing editor of Fifty Grande .

Why: The City by the Bay is buzzing this year, thanks to an array of fresh concepts in hospitality, food, technology, green spaces and sustainability. “With all the Silicon Valley distress, people may be tired of hearing about SF at this point, but if there’s one thing they should pay attention to, it’s the city’s leadership in sustainability. It made our sustainability-slanted list of best destinations in 2023,” says Emily Carmichael.

Exciting openings include the Hearst Hotel from Auberge Resorts (which is transforming an iconic building into a lavish space that blends tradition and innovation) and the LINE Hotel San Francisco (a contemporary interpretation of the area’s historic architecture with a landscaped rooftop solarium that has panoramic city views).

Additionally, the recently opened Presidio Tunnel Tops , designed by James Corner Field Operations (the firm behind New York City’s High Line), is providing the city with an abundance of space to explore and relax among 14 acres of new national park land and panoramic views of the Bay.

The culinary scene is also red-hot. “It’s not hard to find really delicious food here that emphasizes sustainability or local sourcing like that of Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese or Lolo,” says Carmichael. “There’s also the Japanese Tea Garden and picnics in Dolores Park. San Francisco is just a great place to eat and be outdoors, fog be damned.”

Then there’s the influence of technology. Joining the growing NFT phenomenon is SHŌ , a two-story culinary and entertainment nightlife experience that will debut in downtown San Francisco in fall 2023. The concept will include a restaurant and rooftop Sky Lounge, as well as a private membership club with the purchase of an NFT.

Overlooking the heated outdoor pool at the Grand Hyatt Vail.

Where to Go: Vail, Colorado

Chosen By: Laura Begley Bloom is a travel expert and the author of this column.

Why: Sixty years ago, a group of visionaries decided to open a ski resort at Vail Mountain that would eventually revolutionize the industry and help make this former mining town a must-visit not only for the jet set but for nature lovers looking for year-round adventures. As the mountain hits its 60th anniversary, Vail has a lot to celebrate in 2023.

A big headliner is Camp Hale , President Biden’s first national monument. The groundbreaking new monument on the outskirts of town honors this area’s original dwellers, the Ute people, as well as the Army’s 10th Mountain Division, which helped liberate Europe in World War II and used to train here. Plus, there are 53,804 acres to explore with mountain biking, guided hiking, rock climbing, fly fishing and overnight excursions to the nearby 10 th Mountain Division Huts. (Delaware North recently announced the acquisition of Nova Guides, an outdoor recreation and adventure tour company based at Camp Hale.)

In other feel-good news, Vail Resorts has reached 100% renewable electricity not only in Vail itself, but across all of its North American ski resorts. It’s part of this trailblazing company’s Commitment to Zero effort to reach a zero net operating footprint by 2030. Vail has also built two new lifts at Wildwood and paired up with the local 10th Mountain Whiskey distillery to create a pair of limited-edition bourbons in honor of the anniversary.

In a town where restaurants, lounges and hotels are always innovating, the hot dining reservation is the private gondola experience at Alpenrose , while Chasing Rabbits is shaking things up with its a unique entertainment venue that includes dining, an arthouse cinema, a cocktail-forward speakeasy and more.

Set at the base of Vail Mountain along the revered fly-fishing waters of Gore Creek, Grand Hyatt Vail is also pulling out all the stops for its own milestone 40th anniversary. New executive chef Pascal Coudouy is reimagining the alpine menu at the fine dining restaurant Gessner, while the Yoshimi pop-up restaurant has been so popular that it will soon be replaced with a new permanent sushi restaurant. And the hotel has introduced plenty of memorable moments, from an après ski Moët Yurt to Colorado’s first and only Moët & Chandon champagne vending machine. Even dogs get spoiled at the summertime Yappy Hour.

Skytop Mountain House in Bailey, Colorado

Where to Go: Bailey, Colorado

Chosen By: Kathryn O’Shea-Evans is a travel and design writer and co-author of the new book Lodge: An Indoorsy Tour of America’s National Parks (Gibbs Smith, April 2023), with a foreword by Ken Burns.

Why: “Colorado locals like me know the truth: Sometimes, you’ll get stuck in crazy-making, Los Angeles-worthy traffic on 1-70 for hours just trying to get into the mountains for a ski day or alpine hiking adventure,” says Kathryn O’Shea-Evans.

But O’Shea-Evans and her husband recently discovered a dreamy alternative far from the madding crowds: Bailey, Colorado. “It’s an easy one hour drive from downtown Denver on Highway 285 and chockablock with so many mountain thrills that it feels like you’re in an undiscovered corner of Europe,” says O’Shea-Evans.

To get into nature, O’Shea-Evans recommends Deer Creek Trail . “If you want to soak up a peaceful mountain forest and take a short, easy stroll along a rushing creek, this is the spot,” she says. Another favorite location: Wellington Lake . “Open year-round and a go-to for the region’s anglers, it’s stocked twice a year with fish like rainbow and palomino trout,” she says. To delve into regional history, McGraw Memorial Park is a must. “The 20-acre creekside park is home to a historic homestead from the 1870s, Keystone railroad bridge and Shawnee School,” says O’Shea-Evans.

Other top vacation spots include Aspen Peak Cellars , set on the banks of the South Platte River (“don’t miss the charcuterie board, fresh-baked baguette with Tuscan olive oil and authentic Swiss Cheese fondue”) and the PCCP Resale Boutique (“an entirely volunteer-run shop that’s a treasure trove of secondhand finds, all at amazing prices—whether you’re looking for wardrobe staples or fun kids toys”).

In fact, O’Shea-Evans loves Bailey so much that she and her husband bought a modern vacation house and turned it into a luxe short term rental, Skytop Mountain House . “It’s got a prime panorama over Bandit Peak and Rosalie Peak,” she says. “When we’re vacationing with our son up there, we always, always see wildlife—from elk to moose—and never experience a traffic jam. It’s Colorado the way it was meant to be…just don’t tell anybody about it.”

The clear waters of Florida's Henderson State Park.

Where: Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida

Chosen By: Kate Schweitzer is a Chicago-based freelance travel writer and mom of two. Follow her on Instagram @kateschweitzer .

Why: Family-friendly Destin-Fort Walton Beach offers near-perfect weather year-round, a growing hotel scene, rich ecotourism that the destination is working hard to protect, plus “a fishing community so vibrant that the beach town has come to be known as ‘the world’s luckiest fishing village,’” says Kate Schweitzer.

Set on the Gulf of Mexico, Destin provides travelers with an array of immersive and educational activities such as artificial reefs for snorkeling and diving, educational beach walks to learn more about sea turtles and emerald green waters where dolphins roam freely in their natural habitat. To protect and restore the local sea life, the destination has introduced a range of projects including new sea turtle lighting initiatives, the continental United States’ first ever Fishing Aggregating Device and The Emerald Coast Open and Lionfish Removal & Awareness Day Festival to promote effectively removing the invasive species from the Gulf.

“Visitors can also foster their love of marine life with a visit to Destin’s Gulfarium C.A.R.E. Center , which promotes the rehabilitation and release of stranded sea turtles,” says Schweitzer. “My kiddos loved the marine-biologist-led tour just as much as setting sail on a trimaran in search of dolphins.”

Destin is also home to a buzzing gulf-to-table seafood scene, including spots like Lulu’s (owned by Jimmy Buffett’s little sister Lucy), Rockin Tacos and Brotula's Seafood House . “In fact, do some good and order up whatever lionfish—an invasive species that prey on the area’s native fish population—is on the menu,” says Schweitzer. “Destin truly is a Florida hidden gem, and you’ll be so glad you discovered it.”

A waterfront view of St. Pete, Florida.

Where to Go: St. Pete, Florida

Chosen By: Terry Ward is a Florida-based travel writer whose work appears in CNN, National Geographic, Lonely Planet and the Washington Post, among many other outlets. Follow her along her journey on Twitter and Instagram at @TerryWardWriter.

Why: “St. Pete presents one of Florida’s best mixes of a cool and lively urban downtown with beautiful beaches right nearby,” says Terry Ward. “The town is known for its art scene—from the murals everywhere to Salvador Dali and Renaissance masterworks in museums—but it remains delightfully casual and approachable at every level, too.”

With 35 miles of uninterrupted coastline including some of Florida’s top-rated beaches and a booming arts and culture scene, it’s no surprise that St. Pete is popping on travelers’ radars. The Dalí Museum continues to offer unique and innovative exhibits that explore multi-sensory, immersive experiences for all types of travelers and is a must visit when in the destination.

Also appealing: “It’s an LGBTQ+ haven and home to the state’s largest Pride parade every year,” says Ward. “And the new St. Pete Pier has become a center for gathering all year round, whether at a pop-up roller rink, among the pelicans and anglers casting out line at its tip or while enjoying sprawling views of downtown and Tampa Bay from a rooftop Tiki bar washed with salty breezes.”

This year is bringing big changes in the hospitality scene, including major renovations to the iconic Vinoy Resort & Golf Club and hot new hotels popping up all around town. The EDGE District is welcoming its first lifestyle property, the Moxy Hotel by Marriott , while Mint House is set to open in the district in June 2023, offering apartment-style accommodations. Additionally, the AC Hotel St. Petersburg by Marriott opened earlier this year.

And when it comes to soaking in St. Pete’s annual 361 days of sunshine, it doesn’t always happen at the beach. This year the 75-mile Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail Loop is being completed with a 6.7-mile addition. The multi-use pathway stretches from Tarpon Springs to St. Pete with connections to coastal communities along the way, making it a great way to explore the area.

Exploring Savannah, Georgia.

Where to Go: Savannah, Georgia

Chosen By: Melissa Klurman is a travel expert and contributor at Reader’s Digest , The Points Guy and Travel Awaits .

Why: A charming southern escape, the “Hostess City” of Savannah is a favorite of travel writer Melissa Klurman for its rich history—the entire downtown is a National Historic Landmark; its 22 park squares, including the illustrious Forsyth Park of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil fame; and, of course, its numerous regional culinary delights.

Despite its many allures, Klurman says, Savannah’s live music scene has been a bit under the radar. “Savannah is seemingly always in the shadow of Nashville and Austin. That’s all about to change though,” says Klurman.

This year, the city got a new entertainment venue, Enmarket Arena, bringing big name acts to a 9,500 seat arena. That comes on the heels of the opening of the Plant Riverside District, an entertainment zone that debuted during the pandemic.

Even more enticing is the vibrant Savannah Music Festival , a 17-day celebration of stellar live jazz, blues, folk, global roots and classical music. It’s an easy-to-attend (and enjoy) concert series, says Klurman, who also notes that tickets start at wallet friendly prices of just $31. “You can dip into indoor and outdoor performances, ticketed big name draws like Buddy Guy, or smaller lunchtime events to get a flavor of this southern festival,” says Klurman. “It’s been a local favorite for more than 30 years, but I’m betting that with the new focus on Savannah as a truly notable music destination, that the Savannah Music Festival will be at the top of music lovers’ lists in the coming years.”

A rendering of the Longfellow Hotel, which will open this summer in Portland’s historic West End ... [+] neighborhood.

Where to Go: Portland, Maine

Chosen By: Born and raised in Maine, Vanessa Santarelli is the founder of Your Maine Concierge (the state’s first custom guided-experience company) and co-host of the Maine Life TV show .

Why: “One could visit Portland for a week and still only scratch the surface of all that Maine’s largest city has to offer,” says Vanessa Santarelli.

From fine dining to local seaside eats, Portland has more restaurants per capita than any other city in the country besides San Francisco. Earlier this year, Per Se and Eleven Madison Park alums opened Twelve to rave reviews. Some other notable spots include The Danforth (a restaurant and cocktail bar with sleek interiors by the Death & Co team), Tandem (a bakery and coffee shop in a former gas station), Crispy Gai (“a locals’ hot spot where bartender Arvid Brown’s twist on the classic daiquiri with Thai basil is not to be missed,” says Santarelli). Miyake also just reopened after having been closed for years due to Covid. “Chef Masa’s signature hamayaki dish alone will make you want to plan your return trip to Maine before the check gets to the table,” says Santarelli.

Looking for a quintessential Maine experience? “Pop across the bridge to South Portland for local oysters on the half shell, ceviche, smoked trout and salmon toast at SoPo Seafood Market and Raw Bar , paired with a local craft beer like Patina from Austin Street Brewery , on their way to a casual, yet breathtakingly scenic lunch of delicious Maine lobster rolls on the no-frills picnic tables at the Lobster Shack at Two Lights, watching the sailboats and fishing vessels cruise by,” says Santarelli. “After lunch, walk in the footsteps of famed painter Winslow Homer by scheduling a private studio tour with the Portland Museum of Art on the ocean cliffs in Scarborough that inspired many of his most admired works.”

This year will also bring exciting hotel news: Designed by the same folks that did the acclaimed Lake House on Canandaiga , Longfellow Hotel will open this summer in Portland’s historic West End neighborhood. The property will be the first independent, full-service hotel to open in Portland in 20 years, and is the namesake of famed Portland poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Owned and operated by two lifelong Maine brothers, the hotel reinterprets Maine’s wild, rugged beauty into a sophisticated, calming oasis in the heart of Portland.

Another new hot spot: The Washington Baths , a design-forward Scandinavian style public bath house. This year will also mark the 200th anniversary of the first steamship to Portland from Boston, which started regular passenger service between the two cities and helped transform Maine into “Vacationland.”

A Sand Dune Trail in Michigan's Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Traverse City, Michigan

Chosen By: Erica Zazo is a freelance outdoor and travel writer based in Chicago. She often writes about lesser-known hiking trails and outdoor adventures across the Midwest.

Why: For an underrated destination to add to your 2023 bucket list, look no further than waterfront Traverse City, located on the Northwest side of Michigan. The destination is the perfect blend of small-town charm, mixed with elevated offerings in the cultural and culinary space, such as Modern Bird (from a husband and wife duo who trained in Michelin-level kitchens) and Dennos Museum Center (with the largest collection of Inuit art in the country).

“As a Michigan native, I can’t say enough about my love of Traverse City,” says Erica Zazo. “I’m a huge fan of going on outdoor adventures throughout the region, including kayaking and fly fishing on the Boardman River, biking through downtown, hiking on Old Mission Peninsula and boating in the Grand Traverse Bay.”

One of this lesser-known destination’s claims to fame is that it is the country’s Cherry Capital: Visitors can stroll through the cherry blossom trees in springtime and celebrate the region’s favorite crop at the National Cherry Festival in July. Traverse City is also home to a hidden wine gem: the Traverse Wine Coast . With its location on the 45th parallel, the region lines up with prestigious wine regions in Europe and has two unique areas climatically moderated by the massive waters of Lake Michigan: The Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsula .

This is also beer country. “I’m a big Michigan craft beer fan, and visiting Farm Club north of downtown Traverse City is one of my favorite places to drink local beer,” says Zazo. “They have an amazing food menu, impressive brews and an unbeatable view from their amazingly beautiful taproom that oozes with cozy modern cabin vibes.” For a bike-and-brew adventure, Zazo recommends a ride along the Leelanau Trail, a 17-mile paved bike path that passes right by Farm Club and stretches all the way to Suttons Bay.

Lastly, Traverse City is a destination for all seasons—whether it’s skiing and winter sports at Crystal Mountain Resort, leaf peeping in the fall, or exploring Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in the spring and summer. For a great place to stay, the Alexandra Inn will debut this summer on a private beach along East Grand Traverse Bay. Each of the 32 guest rooms will have soaker tubs and glass-faced balconies with stunning water views.

Up-and-coming Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

Where to Go: Mississippi

Why: The Magnolia State has everything a traveler could want in 2023, from a cutting-edge culinary scene to buzzing small towns to incredible natural beauty.

In Hattiesburg, take in over 50 pieces of art on the public art trail, tuck into the Hattiesburg Pocket Alley Pocket Museum (a 48×36-inch window display filled with a monthly rotating collection of objects) and thrift your heart out at the Lucky Rabbit , which even has glassblowing demonstrations.

Other hidden-gem towns include Waveland (the only community of the Gulf Coast that prohibits commercial buildings on its beachfront), Bay St. Louis (which has a quaint downtown filled with art galleries and antique shops) and Diamondhead (known for its golf scene and some of the best greens on the coast.

Mississippi has also carved out a signature culinary culture, with high-end dining by celebrity chefs to farm-to-table spots to no-frills establishments. In historic downtown Ocean Springs, Vestige offers a contemporary American menu paired with inspiration of the flavors and techniques of Japan, while at Elvie’s in Jackson, chef Hunter Evans channels his passion for food and hospitality learned in his grandmother Elvieretta’s New Orleans kitchen. The Delta is also known for tamales, and the easiest way to experience this beloved snack is by following the Hot Tamale Trail .

When it comes to nature, Quapaw Canoe Company runs daytrip and overnight wilderness customized expeditions on the Lower Mississippi River via its Back Waters, Bayous, Oxbows and Flood Plain. The Mississippi also offers great birding throughout its forests and sandy beaches, and the Mississippi Coastal Birding Trail helps guide visitors to identifying over 40 birding sites identified by local birders.

Mississippi’s lodging ranges from forest retreats to historic inns and everything in between. The Roost in Ocean Springs is a restored boutique hotel located within walking distance of the beach and the eclectic downtown. Set on 26 acres, the Monmouth Historic Inn in Natchez was originally built in 1818 and is now a National Historic Landmark.

Kansas City, Missouri's downtown skyline with Union Station.

Where to Go: Kansas City, Missouri

Chosen By: Anna Petrow is a Kansas City-based culinary, travel and lifestyle photographer and regular contributor to The New York Times, Travel + Leisure and Fathom .

Why: “Kansas City’s culture includes a unique blend of the creative and the culinary,” says Anna Petrow. “A city positioned in the heartland, our chefs and farmers were among the first in the country to quietly lead the farm to table movement.”

Now, Kansas City is having its moment, thanks in part to people who genuinely care about where their food comes from. “You see that care come to life in a creative way in everything from cocktails to chocolate handcrafted in KC,” says Petrow. “Christopher Elbow ’s confections have gained a place on the national stage, while local liquor brands like J. Rieger & Co. and Mean Mule have quickly won the hearts of Kansas Citians through both innovation and homage to the heritage of our city, which eschewed prohibition in favor of speakeasies and jazz, earning us the nickname ‘Paris of the Plains.’”

Another hallmark of this city is that it’s a place that values community over competition. “You see this all the time, from restaurants supporting each other’s new ventures, to coffee shops leading the charge for community initiatives,” says Petrow. One person who embodies this spirit: Jackie Nguyen, owner of Vietnamese coffee shop Cafe Cà Phê . “Her shop has become a home for artists, organizers and dreamers,” says Petrow. “Rarely a week goes by when they aren’t hosting a culture workshop or fundraiser for a fellow small business inventor—true advocacy.”

All of this feeds into the general spirit of support for the arts, including First Fridays in the Crossroads , open gallery nights, street art festivals that draw big crowds, open-air barbecue competitions in the summer and institutions like the beloved American Jazz Museum . “Great food and drink are never far behind,” says Petrow. Case in point? “KC’s most anticipated brewery, Black-founded and owned Vine Street Brewing , will be opening near the museum this year,” says Petrow. “So go ahead and book a flight to our new airport—your tastebuds will thank you.”

A nighttime view of Atlantic City's waterfront.

Where to Go: Atlantic City, New Jersey

Chosen By: Andrea Doyle , a journalist with Skift Meetings.

Why: “Atlantic City is set to have a banner 2023 and I will be a frequent visitor,” says Andrea Doyle. America’s Playground (as this beachside city is called) has seen significant reinvestment into the destination over the last several years, including multi-million dollar hotel renovations, game-changing restaurants and all-new attractions.

“There are so many new features coming online that I am excited to experience,” says Andrea Doyle. “I am looking forward to dining at Nobu , which is set to open this year, enjoying a show at Spiegelworld and checking out a few of the many top-name concerts featured this summer.”

When it arrives at Caesars in Atlantic City with a brand new production of “The Hook” in summer 2023, Spiegelworld is set to be the planet’s premier purveyor of submersive entertainment. Also bringing new life to the destination: the highly-anticipated $55 million rebrand and remodel of Borgata’s Water Club to MGM Tower. Adding to the excitement: Island Waterpark at Showboat Atlantic City , which will be the largest indoor waterpark in the country and will feature state-of-the-art surf machines creating life-size waves and the largest custom aqua forms in the world.

And of course, there are the tried-and-true favorites that continue to deliver. “On getaways with my girlfriends as well as my book club, we enjoy shopping, dining at prestigious restaurants, spa treatments at wellness centers like Exhale Spa + Bathhouse at Ocean and dancing the night away at Boogie Nights at Tropicana ,” says Doyle.

Niagara Falls on a summer day.

Where: Niagara Falls, New York

Chosen By: Michele Herrmann, Travel, Culinary and Lifestyle Freelance Writer and Content Creator

Why: Niagara Falls is a bucket-list destination for people from all over the world, thanks to iconic attractions such as the Maid of the Mist and Cave of the Winds . Founded in 1885, Niagara Falls State Park has always been a point of interest for visitors to the Falls, and now a new $46 million Welcome Center opening later this spring will feature sustainable elements, hands-on exhibits and indigenous history to enrich the experience.

“The New York State side of Niagara Falls has really seen a lot of growth and revitalization,” says Michele Herrmann. “From establishments such as Wine on Third, to the new Visitor’s Center, there’s a lot going on. Other sites to visit include the Aquarium of Niagara and the Niagara Power Vista.”

Nature is the focal point of any visit to Niagara Falls USA, and the new Niagara Hiking Company offers guided day hikes into the Niagara Gorge, with scenic vantage points and narrated history of the area.

A short walk from Niagara Falls, visitors can stay at the Red Coach Inn , celebrating its 100 th anniversary in 2023. The historic hotel overlooks the spectacular Upper Rapids of the Niagara River. Also located within walking distance of Niagara Falls: the recently renovated voco The Cadence Hotel . Rooms have balconies where guests can kick up their feet and enjoy a glass of wine from one of the many local Niagara wineries .

Oklahoma City's Bricktown neighborhood at dusk.

Where to Go: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Chosen By: Kay Kingsman, travel writer and blogger at The Awkward Traveller .

Why: “Oklahoma City is not often at the top of dream destinations for travelers, but 2023 is the year that will change,” says Kay Kingsman. “Other cities around the country may get the colloquial title of ‘weird’ or ‘quirky,’ but Oklahoma City, also called OKC for short, flies under the radar for its unconventional attractions and locally curated art scene.”

The Bradford House boutique hotel in uptown is a new staple to OKC hospitality. “It offers guests unique guest rooms, delightful afternoon tea, jazz nights with regional musicians, and even weekly French classes,” says Kingsman. “It’ll be hard to leave your cozy hotel room, but once you do, check out two of the most unique museums you'll ever come across: the American Banjo Museum and the American Pigeon Museum . While both are seemingly random, visitors will learn how both pigeons and banjos were integral to the foundation of modern American culture.”

Be sure to round out your cultural enrichment with a trip to the newly opened First Americans Museum . “It explains the decolonized history of the Americas through the lens of the continent’s Indigenous peoples,” says Kingsman.

There are other amazing things to do in OKC beyond museums. “Have a psychedelic experience at Factory Obscura and dine at the award-winning Grey Sweater restaurant,” says Kingsman. “Oklahoma City is also a fantastic road trip stop, as it lies along Route 66, one of the strangest, but also most artistic, highways in the country.”

Whether you are just passing through or staying a while, be sure to also add on at least a day trip to the nearby city of Tulsa. “Tulsa is a destination all on its own, but if you only have time for one activity, be sure to join the eye-opening Greenwood Black Wall Street tour ,” says Kingsman. “Visitors will learn the seedy reality of how government entities systemically destroy and displace Black neighborhoods, and also the steps on what they can do to take action.”

The skyline of Portland, Oregon, with Mt. Hood in the distance.

Where to Go: Portland, Oregon

Why: “Like a phoenix from the ashes, Portland, Oregon is reemerging in 2023 with unprecedented growth in the food and beverage scene, both in quality and variety,” says Kay Kingsman.

Awarded “best foodie city of 2022” by WalletHub, Portland is leading the industry in innovative menus representing cuisines from every corner of the globe. “One especially exciting trait of Portland’s new trajectory is how many of the new and rising businesses are owned and operated by BIPOC and LGBTQA+ trailblazers, reinforcing that a visit to Portland can suit every traveler,” says Kingsman.

With so many great food options, it might be a little overwhelming for first-time visitors. Kingsman’s top recommendations: Matutitna or Masala Lab for breakfast, followed by Nong’s Khao Man Gai or Heavy Plays for lunch. “End the night with a bang at República or Kann , both James Beard-nominated restaurants,” says Kingsman. Or grab a bite at the establishments that made Portland a household name in the culinary world: food carts. “There are literally hundreds of food carts, and for the most part you can’t go wrong, but a few of my personal favorites are Balong , Erica’s Soul Food , Kim Jong Grillin and Speed-o Cappuccino ,” says Kingsman.

How to fill your time between meals? “Get active at a few of the new inclusive fitness studios like Flow in the City or join in for a community run hosted by Deadstock Coffee Roasters ,” says Kingsman. “You can also go at your own pace with a stroll through the Portland Japanese Garden , which added a new tea cafe, or explore the city on an urban hike and pop into a few locally owned small businesses for a little souvenir shopping—sales tax free.”

Exploring Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a 16th-century Spanish fort in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Where to Go: Puerto Rico

Why: Powerfully rebounding from Hurricane Irma and Maria in 2017, Puerto Rico is sprinting full speed ahead into 2023—and beyond—with new avenues to enjoy while remaining loyal to its Boricuan identity. “One of the first things visitors may notice is the variety of lodging options that directly benefit the community, like the Dreamers Welcome , a new LGBTQIA-owned hospitality group co-founded by Puerto Rican artist and designer Roy Delgado,” says Kay Kingsman.

From surfing, to hiking, to just suntanning near the lagoons, Puerto Rico is a destination of natural beauty, with miles of beautiful coastlines and the only rainforest National Park in America. “For the nautically inclined, there are also multiple islands off the coast with soft white sand and crystal clear waters for snorkeling,” says Kingsman. “Or grab a kayak and waft through one (or all!) of the three bioluminescent bays.”

Other nature highlights include the reopening of the renowned Camuy Caves , known for its extensive network of natural lime caves and underground waterways waiting to be explored. And then there’s the state-of-the-art self-sustainable company Earthship PR , which offers educational tours and short-term rentals of its off-grid and sustainable homes built with recycled materials

Along with the island’s natural beauty, Puerto Rico’s cultural attractions are also a big draw. “Companies like Higuaca Adventours and Sojourn offer accessible Taino and Afro-Borinken heritage tours,” says Kingsman. Coupled with the worldwide explosion of Puerto Rican musicians such as Bad Bunny, Rauw Alejandro, and Villano Antillano, the island is experiencing incredible growth in the art scene as well. “Be sure to check out community art collectives such as El Local en Santurce to get the latest pulse on the creative events in Puerto Rico,” says Kingsman.

There are also a number of new restaurants blooming across the island. “A food tour with Flavors of San Juan Food or Spoon is a must-do to get a taste of some of the best flavors Puerto Rico has to offer,” says Kingsman. “If tours aren’t your style, you can DIY your own culinary adventure by following recommendations by local Puerto Rican food influencer Come Con Juan .”

Nneya Richards in Rhode Island's South County.

Where to Go: South County, Rhode Island

Chosen By: Nneya Richards is a speaker and travel blogger at ’N A Perfect World , a curated intersection of travel, food, fashion and geopolitics inspired by the global-citizen lifestyle of the millennial. Richards aims to empower young people, especially those of color, to travel, as she believes it is through exploring the world that we will bridge cultural gaps and misunderstandings.

Why: “It’s just over three hours away from NYC on a fast, comfortable Amtrak ride. But shhh… don’t tell the New Yorkers,” says Nneya Richards. “During the summer season, getting to South County, Rhode Island is easier than getting to the Hamptons. And you’re going to want to head here all year round.”

South County, Rhode Island is on the list for 2023, thanks to all its secret diversions and some not-so secret celebrity fans. “You may know the town of Watch Hill from Taylor Swift’s Last Great American Dynasty, ” says Richards. “Or maybe it’s because Watch Hill is home to the oldest Flying Horse carousel in the country, dating back to 1754.”

Also going for South County: “There’s something for everyone,” says Richards. “There are laidback surf town vibes in places like Narragansett, and you’ll find the best seafood in the country at restaurants like Matunuck Oyster Bar , and cuisine that could easily be just at home in a hotspot in Mexico City at Dalia , a waterfront Mexican restaurant at Ocean House.”

There’s plenty of hotel news in South County, including The Cottage Collection (new accommodations from the acclaimed by Ocean House), The General Stanton Inn (an historic property in Charlestown that’s reopening in May) and Surf Shack Bed & Breakfast (a funky inn coming in late 2023 in Narragansett).

Other new exciting spots include Double Barrel Steak by David Burke , which recently debuted at The Preserve Sporting Club & Residences and Seaside Shadows ghost tours in Westerly (new since last fall). And coming in 2024: Charleston’s Ninigret Park will be home to new Troll works by the famed Danish artist Thomas Dambo.

Best of all: “It’s one of those pockets of peace that the rugged coastlines of the Atlantic can do so well,” says Richards. “And the sunrises and sunsets are just marvelous.”

The clear nighttime skies in Badlands National Park in South Dakota.

Where to Go: South Dakota

Why: Besides its six national parks, 63 state parks and recreation areas, iconic monuments and scenic byways, South Dakota has plenty of new reasons to add the state to your travel bucket list in 2023.

In the legendary Badlands, the Oglala Lakota Living History Village is a new entry point to the beautiful landscape and the past and present culture of Lakota Country. Another new adventure in the heart of Lakota Country: a Buffalo Road Vacation at the legendary Farlee Ranch on the Cheyenne River Reservation, which provides visitors with an understanding of the life of Native Americans. This year also marks the 75 th year anniversary of the Crazy Horse monument—which is still being constructed and honors the Lakota leader who bravely defended the Lakota people’s way of life.

In Custer State Park, the new Bison Center brings an all-bison experience to the park’s scenic drive through the southern prairie, educating future generations on the importance of these majestic animals through dynamic interpretive displays. For a new way to see the Black Hills, the Custer-based Overland America specializes in off-road adventures in Jeep and Overland Trailer rentals.

Another South Dakota must-see for landscapes, tribal history and rich culture: the Native American Scenic Byway , which takes travelers through the lands of the Yankton, Crow Creek, Lower Brule, Cheyenne River and Standing Rock Sioux Tribes.

South Dakota’s culinary scene might also surprise you, especially in Sioux Falls, which is home to spots like The Treasury (an imaginative cocktail lounge located through the bank vault doors of the area’s newest boutique hotel, Hotel on Phillips), Remedy Brewing Company (a newly opened family and dog-friendly brewery) and the trailblazing Sanaa’s Gourmet Mediterranean (led by 2023 James Beard Award-nominated chef Sanaa Abourezk).

The entrance to the Woodstock Inn & Resort in Woodstock, Vermont.

Where to Go: Woodstock, Vermont

Chosen By: Amanda Gabriele is a writer, editor, world traveler and martini enthusiast. She’s currently a senior editor at InsideHook and her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, Eater, Gear Patrol, Thrillist, Matador and more. She lives in Brooklyn, New York but is constantly looking for her next adventure, which you can follow on Instagram @amandameatballs .

Why: Woodstock, Vermont has been making headlines for reasons big and small. The town was recently named to American Express Travel’s 2023 Trending Destinations list , based its popularity with cardholders. And the destination garnered attention when it reopened its iconic Suicide Six ski area—one of the oldest in the country— with a new name, Saskadena Six Ski Area , and new amenities. The change was recognized both for its long overdue nod to the Abenaki people’s ancestral lands, as well as the importance of mental health awareness.

The town’s simple appeals add to its allure. “I can’t think of a more idyllic place than Woodstock, Vermont—it makes for a perfect getaway in any season,” says Amanda Gabriele. “It has all the outdoor activities (hiking, skiing, fishing) and a lovely main street with great shops (don’t miss F.H. Gillingham and Sons, Woody’s Mercantile and Yankee Bookshop).”

For such a small town, Woodstock also has a buzzing hospitality scene. “I’m always in search of the perfect cocktail bar, and I could live inside Au Comptoir with its cozy interior and delicious drinks,” says Gabriele. On the mountain, Perley’s Pourhouse at Saskadena Six offers a selection of Vermont craft beer on tap, an outdoor wood-burning fireplace and fire pits.

The town is also home to the iconic Woodstock Inn & Resort . “It’s dog-friendly, which is a huge plus,” says Gabriele. “and there are comfy sitting areas (and an awesome game room!) scattered around the property that are perfect for a nightcap and chatting up new friends. Its two restaurants— Red Rooster and Richardson’s Tavern —are excellent and many of the dishes are made using fresh produce from the inn’s own garden.”

• Ranked: The 20 Happiest Countries In The World In 2023

• Quit Your Job And Move Abroad: 10 Cheapest Places To Live

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10 Happiest Places To Live In The U.S. In 2024

• Nebraska ranks high in overall happiness due to factors such as high work satisfaction and adequate sleep (4th in the US).
• Idaho stands out as a happy place to live, with a strong sense of community and a thriving work environment (6th in the US).
• Florida offers beautiful weather, high personal well-being, and affordable cities to live in, making it a top choice for happiness (5th in the US).

Happiness is one of the most important factors when determining quality of life, but it can be hard to quantify exactly what makes people happy. While most people can pinpoint specific moments of happiness, like while cruising down Highway 1 on a 10-day California road trip , determining long-term happiness can be a little harder to explain.

Thankfully, numerous studies have taken place to help narrow down what exactly makes a place happy, and especially what it takes to make somewhere a happy place to live. Factors like financial stability, consistent employment, a sense of purpose, and a feeling of community have all been listed as major sources of happiness, according to the 2023 World Happiness Report .

Looking ahead to 2024, some may be looking for a permanent change of scenery, a happier place to call home. In September 2023, WalletHub released its findings on the happiest states in the US based on emotional and physical well-being, work environment, and community and environment. These factors, which include sub-categories like adult depression, education levels, and adequate sleep, serve as exceptional indicators of how happy a state is not just to visit but to live and work and build a life in.

As the new year approaches, those planning a move can use these findings to help find the happiest places to live in the US in 2024.

In addition to WalletHub’s study on the happiest states in the US for 2023 , this article has pulled information on cities within each state from US News’ Best Places to Live in the U.S. in 2023-2024 , which highlights specific cities based on their quality of life and value, both factors that directly overlap with overall happiness.

Related: 10 Happiest Cities In America As Of 2023

Happiness Score: 58.92

Nebraska has a reputation as a bit of a drive-through state (and indeed, Omaha does make an excellent stop on an I-80 cross-country road trip ), but after looking at the quality of life in this Midwestern destination, those looking to move to a happier state may consider Nebraska in 2024.

Nebraskans report high levels of satisfaction with their work environment, as well as their overall emotional and physical well-being. Nebraska also ranks fourth out of all 50 states for adequate sleep, an unusual but surprisingly important sub-factor in determining overall happiness.

Within the state of Nebraska, the city of Lincoln ranks #32 on the US News list of 150 Best Places to Live, thanks to its low unemployment rate, growing economy, and low housing costs.

Nebraska Happiness Rankings

• Emotional & Physical Wellbeing: 12
• Work Environment: 7
• Community & Environment: 25
• What Makes Nebraska A Happy Place: Low Cost of Living, Thriving Economy, Low Unemployment, High Number of Outdoor Spaces
• Happiest City in Nebraska: Lincoln

Happiness Score: 59.31

Idaho is an idyllic, underrated US state that may just be one of the happiest places to live in 2024. Possibly the best state to visit in winter, Idaho is full of outdoor activities and mid-sized towns that are full of happy people.

Idaho ranks particularly high for those looking for a sense of community and environment, coming in second among all 50 states. Additionally, the state’s work environment ranks sixth overall, with a relatively high percentage of remote work opportunities available.

Boise, in particular, ranks high for overall happiness (#12 according to US News Best Places to Live), with a perfect blend of urban growth and natural beauty. Given that the state’s economy and job market is projected to remain in the positive in the coming year, Idaho will continue to be one of the happiest places to live in the coming year.

Idaho Happiness Rankings

• Emotional & Physical Wellbeing: 30
• Work Environment: 6
• Community & Environment: 2
• What Makes Idaho A Happy Place: Thriving Economy, Expansive Outdoor Spaces, New Construction, Job Growth, Strong Sense of Community
• Happiest City in Idaho: Boise

The Sunshine State is well established as a vacation destination, but with the second-highest emotional and physical well-being in the country, it’s no surprise many travelers are making their vacation a permanent one.

In addition to beautiful weather and high personal well-being, Florida has a number of affordable cities to live in, according to their cost of living. These cities aren’t just affordable; they are some of the happiest places to live in Florida as well. Sarasota and Naples both ranked in the top 10 of US News Best Places to Live, coming in fifth and sixth, respectively.

While Florida struggles a little more in the category of Community & Environment, the state reports the second-lowest share of adults with depression in the country. Pair these statistics with beautiful beaches, tasty food, and lower-than-average unemployment rates, and Florida will undoubtedly be one of the happiest places to live in 2024.

Florida Happiness Rankings

• What Makes Florida A Happy Place: Thriving Economy, Expansive Outdoor Spaces, New Construction, Job Growth, Strong Sense of Community, Low Tax Burden
• Happiest City in Florida: Sarasota

Happiness Score: 60.53

California may seem a surprising state to make the 10 happiest places to live, considering it is one of the states in the US with the highest tax burdens on residents . While California does get docked in the Work Environment category for its high cost of living and heavy traffic, there is still plenty to love about the Golden State.

One of California’s greatest strengths is that its residents feel a high sense of emotional and physical well-being. In fact, four Californian cities, Irvine, San Francisco, San Jose, and Fremont, all ranked in the top 10 of WalletHub’s Happiest Cities in the US for 2023 , with Fremont winning out as the happiest city in America. All of these cities reported a strong sense of community as well as personal and professional satisfaction.

In addition to happy cities that are continuing to grow as 2024 approaches, certain attractions like the state’s nine national parks stand as a steady reminder of the state’s natural wonders, providing a beautiful backdrop against one of the happiest states for 2024.

California Happiness Rankings

• What Makes California A Happy Place: Thriving Economy, Job Growth, Strong Sense of Community, Good Weather, Low Share of Adult Depression, Highly Educated Population
• Happiest City in California: Fremont

Related: 10 Most Walkable Cities In California Ranked By Walking Score

Connecticut

Happiness score: 60.68.

The New England region, which includes Connecticut, is at its most popular in the fall, when the changing colors draw visitors from around the country. Hiding behind the reds and oranges is one of the happiest states in the US, perfect for a move in 2024.

Connecticut is full of small towns that foster a sense of community in a scenic setting. In addition to having a strong sense of belonging in their state, residents of Connecticut feel a strong sense of emotional & physical well-being. Considering there are so many beautiful hikes to enjoy in Connecticut , it is fitting that this state has a positive effect on the body and mind.

Connecticut’s capital city, Hartford, leaves a particularly happy impression. Ranking #56 on the US News Best Places to Live list, Hartford wins major points for its scenic setting, diverse population, and highly educated population, all of which correlate to higher overall happiness.

Connecticut Happiness Rankings

• Emotional & Physical Wellbeing: 6
• Work Environment: 32
• Community & Environment: 8
• What Makes Connecticut A Happy Place: Good Economy, Scenic Natural Landscapes, Highly Educated Population, Low Crime Rates
• Happiest City in Connecticut: Hartford

Related: These Are The 14 Most Beautiful Places To Live In New England

Happiness Score: 61.98

Come to New Jersey to enjoy the things to do in Cape May ; stay in New Jersey because it is one of the happiest places to live in the US in 2024. Coming in third for Emotional & Physical Well-being, the residents of New Jersey are clearly enjoying their location near the beautiful beaches and scenic hikes of the East Coast.

Despite its relatively small size, two of New Jersey’s cities ranked in WalletHub’s Happiest Cities study: Jersey City (#32) and Newark (#125). Trenton also ranked as one of the best places to live in 2023-2024, according to US News, coming in at #71. All three cities were recognized for their variety of recreational activities, highly educated populations, and healthy job markets.

The blend of history and modernity, paired with job security and numerous outdoor recreation areas, combine to make New Jersey one of the happiest places to consider moving to this coming year.

New Jersey Happiness Rankings

• Emotional & Physical Wellbeing: 3
• Work Environment: 14
• Community & Environment: 29
• What Makes New Jersey A Happy Place: Good Job Market, Scenic Natural Landscapes, Outdoor Recreation, Highly Educated Population, High Emotional & Physical Wellbeing
• Happiest City in New Jersey: Trenton

Happiness Score: 62.82

Minnesota is a relatively large state in the northern part of the Midwest. This scenic and often frigid state is perfect for enjoying an afternoon downtown or a day on the Great Lakes. Regardless of where folks are, however, residents agree Minnesota is a happy place to live.

Minneapolis, in particular, ranked on both WalletHub’s Happiest Cities list (#17) and US News’ Best Places to Live (#35). High emotional and physical well-being, along with job security and comfortable income compared to the cost of living, help residents of Minneapolis (and Minnesota as a whole) feel confident in their situation, leading them to feel happier and more fulfilled.

Minnesota Happiness Rankings

• What Makes Minnesota A Happy Place: Good Job Market, Healthy Economy, Scenic Natural Landscapes, Outdoor Recreation, Low Cost of Living
• Happiest City in Minnesota: Minneapolis

Happiness Score: 64.62

Maryland is full of beautiful must-visit towns , many of them rich in colonial history. Looking towards the future in 2024, Maryland still manages to stand out as one of the happiest places to live in the US.

Even compared to the other states in the top ten list, Maryland stands out as the only state to rank in the top ten in all three categories. Coming in eighth for emotional and personal well-being, fourth for work environment, and fifth for community and environment, there is not a weak link in Maryland’s happiness trends.

Columbia is perhaps one of the best examples of Maryland’s overall happiness. Ranked the seventh-happiest city in the country by WalletHub (out of 182 cities), Columbia residents are confident in their personal and physical well-being. With a variety of family-friendly activities and a more relaxed atmosphere than some of its neighboring metropolitan areas, Columbia, and Maryland, as a whole, are happy places to call home in 2024.

Maryland Happiness Rankings

• Emotional & Physical Wellbeing: 8
• Work Environment: 4
• Community & Environment: 5
• What Makes Maryland A Happy Place: Healthy Economy, Scenic Natural Landscapes, Variety of Individual and Family-Oriented Attractions and Activities, Good Job Security, Strong Sense of Community
• Happiest City in Maryland: Columbia

Happiness Score: 66.42

It's hard to imagine that a state with a rainbow on its license plate is anything but happy, and thankfully, Hawaii lives up to the iconic imagery. More than just a scenic vacation destination, Hawaii is one of the happiest places to live, and trends show that it will continue to be a happy place to reside in 2024.

Happiness is one of the major reasons the island of Maui might just be the perfect retirement destination , but those looking to make the move don’t have to wait to retire to find that satisfaction. Hawaii ranked number one out of all fifty states for emotional and physical well-being. Given one’s permanent proximity to the beaches and forests, it's easy to understand what residents are so thrilled about.

While the cost of living in Hawaii is high, residents can get some relief knowing that the majority of their tax burden is shifted towards sales tax, which is then shared between locals and the millions of tourists that visit each year.

Of all the happy places to live in Hawaii, Honolulu (ranked #59 by US News Best Places to Live) might just be the happiest. The metropolitan atmosphere of the capital city lends itself to a healthy job market while also maintaining a lower crime rate than its similarly-sized peers.

Hawaii Happiness Rankings

• Emotional & Physical Wellbeing: 1
• Work Environment: 25
• Community & Environment: 30
• What Makes Hawaii A Happy Place: Beautiful Natural Scenery, Variety of Outdoor Activities, Low Crime Rate, Healthy Job Market, Shared Tax Burden
• Happiest City in Hawaii: Honolulu

Happiness Score: 69.79

The high desert of Utah houses both some of the most unique red rock formations in the world and the largest ski resort in the US . Utah is also ranked the happiest place to live in the US for 2023-2024. Falling in the upper half for emotional and physical well-being, Utah jumps to the top of the list thanks to its work environment and community and environment ratings (both #1).

It’s true that Utah doesn’t have the balmy beaches of some of the other states on the list, but the variety of outdoor activities, which include hiking, biking, backpacking, skiing, boating, and more, ensure that the environment is unbeatable. Utah also gets high marks for its variety of family-friendly attractions, which include both easy outdoor hiking trails and indoor venues like Thanksgiving Point in Lehi.

Salt Lake City (SLC), the capital of Utah, is a prime example of what makes this state the happiest in the country. As a whole, Utah ranks number one for employment and economic health , and a number of those jobs are right in SLC. Meanwhile, unique attractions like the AZA-accredited Tracy Aviary are right in the heart of downtown, easily accessible via public transportation.

With plenty of room for personal and professional growth and strong community support along the way, Utah earns its place as the happiest place to live in the US for 2024.

Utah Happiness Rankings

• Emotional & Physical Wellbeing: 16
• Work Environment: 1
• Community & Environment: 1
• What Makes Utah A Happy Place: Strong Economy, Job Growth, Job Security, Outdoor Recreation, Variety of Individual and Family-Oriented Attractions and Activities, Highly Educated Population
• Happiest City in Utah: Salt Lake City