As the world continues to open its doors, 2023 is poised to be a monumental year for travel, marking a significant resurgence in exploration and adventure. At travels.edu.vn, we’re excited to bring you insights inspired by industry leaders like Travel + Leisure mag, helping you plan your next unforgettable journey. This year, drawing inspiration from the curated lists of Travel + Leisure mag editors, we’ve crafted a guide to 50 exceptional destinations for 2023, focusing on locations that promise unique experiences and cater to diverse travel interests. Our expert team has delved deep into what makes each destination special, ensuring this guide not only mirrors the quality you expect from Travel + Leisure mag but also offers an enhanced perspective for the discerning traveler.
This year’s selection process, much like Travel + Leisure mag‘s approach, is deeply rooted in the personal passions and expert opinions of seasoned travel professionals. We’ve tapped into our network of travel specialists to uncover destinations that are not just trendy but truly transformative. From the much-anticipated reopening of Japan to the serene trails of Trans-Bhutan, and from the icy allure of Greenland’s sails to the sun-drenched vineyards of California’s central coast, our list is a testament to the vast spectrum of travel possibilities. We also spotlight emerging culinary hotspots and awe-inspiring art installations, balancing remote escapes with vibrant urban centers.
Reflecting the diverse desires of today’s travelers, we’ve organized our 50 best places into categories, a format you might recognize from Travel + Leisure mag, to help you pinpoint your perfect getaway. Whether you seek cultural immersion, gastronomic delights, thrilling cityscapes, aquatic adventures, nature’s embrace, or idyllic beach retreats, our guide, inspired by the esteemed Travel + Leisure mag, is designed to ignite your wanderlust and guide your travel planning for the year ahead.
We hope that within these pages, you’ll discover the destination that resonates with your travel aspirations for 2023. Perhaps, our paths will even cross in one of these remarkable places.
— Curated by travels.edu.vn Editorial Team, Inspired by Travel + Leisure Mag
Destinations by Category
For Cultural Riches
Alexandria, Virginia
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Image: King Street in Alexandria, Virginia, known for its historical charm and cultural significance, as featured in travel and leisure mag.
Alexandria, Virginia, with its charming cobblestone streets and proximity to Northern Virginia’s wine region, offers an immediate appeal to visitors. However, its current significance lies in its proactive engagement with its historical narrative, a journey shared by many destinations in the American South confronting the complex legacy of the Confederacy. Founded in 1749 as a tobacco port, Alexandria became a major site for the domestic slave trade in the 19th century. Today, the city is transforming its historical reflection into a powerful educational experience.
The Freedom House Museum now features three new exhibitions dedicated to honoring the lives of those forcibly brought to Alexandria. The African American Heritage Trail, launched in 2020 and expanding in February 2023, traces nearly 200 years of history across 11 initial and 20 new stops along the Potomac River. Key sites include the Torpedo Factory, where African Americans contributed significantly during World War II, and Waterfront Park, a former port of embarkation for enslaved people. At Jones Point Park, visitors can learn about Benjamin Banneker, an influential African American inventor and mathematician who played a crucial role in surveying Washington, D.C. For a deeper understanding, Manumission Tours, led by a fourth-generation Alexandrian, offers insightful explorations into the city’s Black history.
For accommodations, the Morrison House Old Town Alexandria, Autograph Collection, recognized in Travel + Leisure mag‘s 2022 World’s Best Awards, offers refined elegance. Additionally, the new Hotel AKA, anticipated to open in Old Town in winter 2023, adds another layer of upscale lodging to this historically rich city.
Cairo and the Nile
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Image: Nile River cruise in Cairo, Egypt, featuring ancient sites and modern luxury cruise ships, a blend of historical exploration and leisure travel highlighted by travel and leisure mag.
The long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum, a monumental project over a decade in the making, is set to open near the Great Pyramids of Giza, possibly in spring 2023. This expansive museum, boasting over one million square feet of exhibition space, will showcase a vast collection of artifacts, including a towering statue of Ramses II, outdoor gardens, and a plaza offering panoramic desert views.
Simultaneously, the Nile River cruise experience is being elevated with new luxury ships. The Viking Osiris and Uniworld Boutique River Cruises’ Sphinx offer opulent voyages, featuring lavish cabins and top-tier amenities. The hotel scene in Cairo is also undergoing a renaissance, with a new Mandarin Oriental planned for downtown Cairo in 2024 and a Four Seasons Hotel Luxor expected in 2025. These developments enhance Cairo’s appeal as a destination that seamlessly blends ancient history with modern luxury, a perfect blend for readers of travel and leisure mag. Despite these future openings, the timeless allure of the Valley of the Kings and other ancient wonders makes Cairo and the Nile a must-visit destination now.
“City,” Nevada
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Image: “City” art installation in Nevada desert, a large-scale contemporary artwork offering a unique cultural experience in a remote setting, recommended by travel and leisure mag.
Basin and Range National Monument in Nevada, known for its remote and expansive landscapes, is now home to “City,” the world’s largest contemporary artwork. This 704,000-acre preserve, already offering hiking, climbing, and historical Indigenous rock art, gained a new dimension with the public opening of “City” in September 2022.
Created by artist Michael Heizer over 50 years, “City” is a monumental, open-air sculpture constructed from desert dirt, rock, and concrete, featuring mounds, depressions, and stelae. Supported by major art institutions like LACMA and MoMA, this mile-and-a-half-long artwork evokes both ancient and futuristic sensibilities. It opened for public access in the 2023 season, requiring reservations. “City” offers a unique destination that rivals the awe of the surrounding natural landscape, making it a compelling visit for those seeking cultural experiences off the beaten path, as highlighted in travel and leisure mag.
Havana, Cuba
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Image: Streets of Havana, Cuba, showcasing the city’s iconic vintage cars and architectural charm, a culturally rich destination promoted by travel and leisure mag.
Travel to Havana, Cuba, has become slightly more accessible for Americans following the Biden administration’s easing of travel restrictions in May 2022. U.S. citizens can now visit through group tours or independently under a “support for the Cuban people” license. This license necessitates a full-time schedule of activities that support Cuban entrepreneurship, such as patronizing local businesses, private restaurants, and cultural events.
Travel advisor Molly Layman from Cuba Candela notes that while a visa is required, it can be obtained at airport check-in or through tour providers for under $100. Despite these logistical steps, the allure of Havana’s vibrant streets and rich culture remains strong. The ease of supporting local Cuban communities while experiencing the island’s unique atmosphere adds to its appeal as a destination worth exploring in the coming year, an experience often celebrated in travel and leisure mag.
Tangier, Morocco
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Image: Le Grand Socco square in Tangier, Morocco, a historic and culturally significant public space, recommended as a must-visit by travel and leisure mag.
Tangier, Morocco, historically a haven for bohemian expats like Paul Bowles and William S. Burroughs, is shifting from a long-term residence destination to a must-visit travel spot. This transformation is partly due to new luxury openings, including Villa Mabrouka, British designer Jasper Conran’s second Moroccan property, following L’Hôtel Marrakech. Villa Mabrouka, once Yves Saint Laurent’s residence, offers stunning views of the Bay of Tangier and is near the city’s medina.
Adding to Tangier’s cultural scene, the Museum of Contemporary Art, also known as the Kasbah Museum, displays regional artists’ work within a renovated 17th-century prison. The Fairmont Tazi Palace Tangier, set in a century-old estate near the old city, is another recent luxury addition. Anticipation is also building for a Waldorf Astoria resort, expected to open in 2025. These developments are enhancing Tangier’s appeal, blending its historical charm with new luxury and cultural experiences, making it a destination increasingly highlighted by publications like travel and leisure mag.
Lakes Region, Turkey
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Image: Antonin Fountain at Sagalassos ancient city, Turkey, in the Lakes Region, showcasing historical sites and natural beauty, a destination favored by travel and leisure mag for cultural exploration.
Beyond Istanbul and Bodrum, Turkey’s Lakes Region in southwestern Anatolia is emerging as a compelling destination. Travel advisor Engin Kadaster predicts this region will gain significant popularity in the coming years, and has been increasingly including it in client itineraries.
The Lakes Region features a series of tectonic lakes in the Taurus Mountains’ foothills, formed by ancient earthquakes, and is rich in Greek and Roman archaeological sites, including the ancient hilltop city of Sagalassos. Unlike mass tourism hotspots, the region offers cozy accommodations like Eskiciler Konaği near Lake Eğirdir and Aliya Konak, a seasonal farm stay in Isparta. For adventurous travelers, the new Pisidia Heritage Trail combines nature and history, passing through ancient sites like Kremna and Yazılı Canyon. The Lakes Region provides a unique Turkish experience, blending cultural heritage with natural beauty, appealing to travelers looking for off-the-beaten-path destinations, as often recommended by travel and leisure mag.
The United Kingdom
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Image: Wellington Arch and Peninsula Hotel London, UK, highlighting the blend of historical landmarks and contemporary luxury that makes the UK a top destination according to travel and leisure mag.
The United Kingdom, named Travel + Leisure mag‘s Destination of the Year, is experiencing a period of transition, yet its timeless appeal remains. Historic cities continue to offer hotels that blend grandeur with exceptional service. Recent openings include Gleneagles Townhouse in Edinburgh and the Peter Marino-designed Peninsula London.
The UK’s museum scene is also evolving, with upgrades to Glasgow’s Burrell Collection and the Manchester Museum. Manchester’s new cultural center, The Factory, celebrates the city’s musical heritage. London’s Arcade Food Hall at Battersea Power Station offers diverse culinary delights. Beyond cities, Scotland’s first rewilding center, Dundreggan, and England’s Two Toms Trail in Lancashire provide countryside experiences. The UK’s blend of historical richness, cultural innovation, and natural beauty solidifies its status as a premier travel destination, a sentiment echoed by travel and leisure mag.
Venice
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Image: Grand Canal, Venice, Italy, showcasing the city’s unique water-based transportation and historic architecture, a perennial favorite destination highlighted by travel and leisure mag.
Venice, a consistently popular destination, introduced a day-trip entrance fee in 2023. However, the city offers much more than a day’s visit. The Venice Architecture Biennale, from May to November 2023, curated by Lesley Lokko, the first Black architect to organize the event, is a major cultural highlight.
Architecture enthusiasts can also explore the Procuratie Vecchie on St. Mark’s Square, recently opened to the public after a five-year refurbishment by David Chipperfield Architects. For luxury travel, Belmond’s Venice Simplon-Orient Express will unveil restored 1920s and ‘30s carriages in June, offering opulent suites reflecting European landscapes. Venice, with its blend of art, architecture, and luxury, remains a top destination, consistently celebrated in publications like travel and leisure mag.
For the Food — and Wine
Athens
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Image: Four Seasons Astir Palace, Athens, Greece, illustrating luxury dining and accommodations in a city known for its culinary scene, often featured in travel and leisure mag.
Athens, often seen as a stopover, warrants a longer stay in 2023, especially for its burgeoning culinary scene. The Athens Riviera near Piraeus port has seen significant development. Four Seasons Astir Palace, opened during the pandemic, boasts a private beach and Michelin-starred Pelagos restaurant. One&Only Aesthesis is set to open nearby in spring 2023, along the waterfront. The new Experience Park, part of The Ellinikon waterfront development, offers green spaces and activities.
In central Athens, Xenodocheio Milos hotel brings cosmopolitan flair, linked to the Estiatorio Milos restaurant brand. The ancient Odeon of Herodes Atticus will host a full schedule of shows in 2023. Athens’ blend of historical sites, new luxury accommodations, and a thriving food scene positions it as a must-visit destination for food and culture enthusiasts, a recommendation frequently found in travel and leisure mag.
Central Florida
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Image: Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser hotel, Central Florida, showcasing themed dining and immersive entertainment, contributing to the region’s appeal as a food and leisure destination as per travel and leisure mag.
Despite Hurricane Ian’s impact on southwestern Florida, Central Florida is ready to welcome travelers, especially with its expanding hospitality and culinary scene. Orlando and Tampa received 14 Michelin accolades in 2022, marking Florida’s entry into the Michelin Guide.
Family-friendly attractions are enhanced, with Disney’s Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser offering an immersive two-night experience. Walt Disney World’s 50th-anniversary celebrations continue into March 2023. Tampa’s new Edition Hotel features a rooftop pool and a restaurant by chef John Fraser. Accessibility to Central Florida is improved with Orlando International Airport’s new Terminal C and Brightline rail service connecting Orlando to South Florida. Central Florida, with its mix of culinary excellence and family entertainment, is a standout destination, often praised in publications like travel and leisure mag.
The Jura, France
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Image: Wine and cheese in Jura, France, highlighting the region’s gourmet offerings, making it a destination for food and wine lovers according to travel and leisure mag.
The Jura region in France, near the Swiss border, is gaining recognition for its distinctive wines. With seven Appellations of Controlled Origin (AOCs), Jura wines, especially vin jaune, are attracting oenophiles.
Beyond wine, the Jura offers a comté cheese trail with 150 fromageries and dairy farms. Hiking in the Jura Mountains, including Baume-les-Messieurs village and Hérisson waterfalls, provides a balance to culinary explorations. Accessible from Paris by high-speed train in just two hours, the Jura is an surprisingly easy-to-reach, under-the-radar destination for those seeking unique wine and cheese experiences, a hidden gem often uncovered by travel and leisure mag.
San Luis Obispo County, California
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Image: Vineyards and butterfly grove in San Luis Obispo County, California, representing the region’s blend of wine tourism and natural attractions, a destination highlighted by travel and leisure mag.
San Luis Obispo County (SLO) in California is emerging as a destination in its own right, moving beyond a stopover to Hearst Castle. SLO’s seven cities, including Paso Robles and Pismo Beach, are vibrant, and the area gained official American Viticulture Area (AVA) recognition in 2022, with over 200 wineries.
New Nomada Hotel Group properties, Farmhouse and River Lodge, are opening in 2023 to accommodate wine enthusiasts. The Gold Rush-era Pozo Saloon is being reimagined with new amenities. Paso Robles gained its first Michelin star (Six Test Kitchen), and San Luis Obispo’s SLO Public Market is adding new restaurants. Nature attractions include the Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove. SLO County’s blend of wine culture, culinary innovation, and natural beauty makes it a rising star in California travel, a destination increasingly covered by travel and leisure mag.
Victoria, Australia
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Image: Melbourne waterfront, Victoria, Australia, showcasing urban dining and city views, part of Victoria’s attraction as a food and wellness destination recommended by travel and leisure mag.
Victoria, Australia, is becoming a premier wine-and-wellness destination, highlighted by new hot springs resorts. Alba Thermal Springs and Spa on the Mornington Peninsula opened in 2022, followed by Metung Hot Springs in East Gippsland and Phillip Island Hot Springs planned for 2023.
The Mornington Peninsula, known for wineries, also welcomes the InterContinental Sorrento. Melbourne, Victoria’s capital, will see openings like Hotel Vera Ballarat and the Ritz-Carlton Melbourne in 2023. Qantas is improving access with direct flights between Dallas and Melbourne. Victoria’s combination of wellness retreats, wine regions, and urban sophistication makes it a top Australian destination, increasingly recognized by travel and leisure mag.
For Big-city Thrills
Copenhagen
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Image: Copenhagen cityscape, Denmark, emphasizing sustainable urban transportation and modern city design, key features that make Copenhagen a thrilling city destination according to travel and leisure mag.
Copenhagen, designated as the UNESCO World Capital of Architecture in 2023, will showcase its design prowess. Events will be held across the city, highlighting contemporary parks, skyscrapers, and infrastructure like Copenhill Power Plant, also an artificial ski slope.
Open-house events will feature 50 venues usually closed to the public, including churches and bridges. “Superkilen” is noted as a cultural hub and playground. New hotels like Kaj Hotel and 25 Hours Hotel Copenhagen reflect modernism and hygge. Copenhagen’s focus on design and urban innovation makes it a thrilling city to explore, especially for readers of travel and leisure mag interested in urban culture.
Houston
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Image: Houston Botanic Garden, Texas, illustrating urban green spaces and botanical diversity, enhancing Houston’s reputation as a vibrant city destination as per travel and leisure mag.
Houston’s arts scene is solidified by the 2020 Kinder Building at the Museum of Fine Arts Houston and the reopened Rothko Chapel. New ventures are enhancing Houston’s profile. The JMK5 Arena, a 12,500-seat concert stadium, and the 713 Music Hall are new entertainment venues.
The Houston Zoo is expanding with a Galápagos Islands exhibit, and the Houston Botanic Gardens, opened in 2020, offers 132 acres of ecosystems. Houston’s combination of arts, entertainment, and urban nature makes it a compelling big city destination, increasingly recognized by travel and leisure mag.
Madrid
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Image: Rosewood Villa Magna, Madrid, Spain, exemplifying luxury hotels and sophisticated style in a city known for its vibrant urban experiences, as featured in travel and leisure mag.
Madrid is shedding its reputation as a business hub, thanks to a wave of luxury hotel openings, including Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Rosewood Villa Magna, Santo Mauro, and The Edition. The Madrid Edition, in a former Monte de Piedad building, features 177 rooms, restaurants by chef Enrique Olvera, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Madrid’s food scene is also evolving, especially in Salamanca and Chamberi, with diverse offerings from Middle Eastern to Spanish-Indian fusion. Madrid’s blend of luxury accommodations and culinary dynamism positions it as a thrilling city destination, gaining increased attention from publications like travel and leisure mag.
Nashville
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Image: Nashville skyline and patio scene, Tennessee, capturing the city’s energetic vibe and urban growth, making Nashville a thrilling destination according to travel and leisure mag.
Nashville is experiencing a tourism renaissance, fueled by new hotels like Conrad, 1 Hotel, Soho House, and Four Seasons. The redesigned Hermitage Hotel features Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s restaurant. Fifth + Broadway complex and Assembly Food Hall offer diverse dining options.
Nashville’s energy is still found on Broadway, but also at venues like Justin Timberlake’s Twelve Thirty Club and events like CMA Fest. Accessibility is improved with low-cost carriers adding flights. Nashville’s blend of music, culinary innovation, and new luxury offerings makes it a thrilling and evolving city destination, frequently highlighted by travel and leisure mag.
Pittsburgh
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Image: Roberto Clemente Bridge, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, illustrating the city’s urban infrastructure and riverfront, key elements that contribute to Pittsburgh’s big-city appeal as per travel and leisure mag.
Pittsburgh is evolving beyond its industrial image with new cultural destinations. The Moonshot Museum, opened in 2022, showcases lunar exploration history. The Carnegie Museum of Art hosts its 58th Carnegie International Exhibition. August Wilson’s childhood home is now a museum.
New hotels and bars, like Joinery Hotel Pittsburgh and The Industrialist, Autograph Collection, are attracting visitors. Bottlerocket Social Hall in Allentown offers a local hangout. Pittsburgh’s cultural renaissance and new social scenes are making it a surprising and thrilling city destination, increasingly covered by travel and leisure mag.
San Francisco
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Image: Presidio Tunnel Tops, San Francisco, California, featuring urban green space and Golden Gate Bridge views, enhancing San Francisco’s appeal as a dynamic city destination, as highlighted by travel and leisure mag.
San Francisco is revitalizing with new infrastructure and cultural projects. The Institute of Contemporary Art San Francisco is a free museum focusing on equity. The Presidio of San Francisco gained 14 acres with Presidio Tunnel Tops, a park designed by the High Line’s lead firm. India Basin is undergoing a community-led park and development project.
New hotels include 1 Hotel San Francisco, The Line SF, and Beacon Grand. Auberge Resorts Collection is set to open a hotel in the Hearst Building in 2023. San Francisco’s ongoing development, cultural vibrancy, and new hospitality options are reaffirming its status as a thrilling city destination, often celebrated in travel and leisure mag.
Seoul
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Image: Palace gate in Seoul, South Korea, blending historical architecture with modern city life, a dynamic contrast that makes Seoul a thrilling urban destination as per travel and leisure mag.
Seoul is re-emerging as a vibrant destination after pandemic restrictions. The city’s arts scene is thriving with new venues like Konig Gallery and expansions at the Seoul Museum of Art. Seoul hosted its first edition of Frieze in 2022, highlighting its growing art market.
New hotels include Fairmont Ambassador Seoul and Josun Palace, offering modern luxury and city views. Seoul’s dynamic arts scene and new luxury accommodations make it a thrilling city to revisit, especially for readers of travel and leisure mag interested in global culture.
For Moments on the Water
Cape Verde, the Gambia, Ghana, and Guinea-Bissau
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Image: Coastal path in Santo Antão, Cape Verde Islands, highlighting scenic hiking trails and ocean views, part of West Africa’s appeal as a water-focused travel destination recommended by travel and leisure mag.
West Africa, though less familiar to many travelers, is gaining attention, particularly Ghana. Hurtigruten Expeditions is launching West Africa Archipelago cruises in November 2023, exploring Cape Verde, the Gambia, Ghana, and Guinea-Bissau.
These two-week cruises aboard the Spitsbergen will visit historical sites like Gorée Island, offer wildlife watching, and include activities like volcano scaling. Hurtigruten’s focus on West Africa represents a significant expansion in cruise destinations, driven by passenger demand for unique cultural and wildlife experiences, as highlighted in travel and leisure mag.
Coastal Ecuador
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Image: Whale watching off Coastal Ecuador with Kontiki Expeditions, showcasing marine life and luxury yacht cruising, a water-based travel option in Ecuador recommended by travel and leisure mag.
Coastal Ecuador, often overshadowed by Quito and the Galápagos, is now a destination to explore. From surf towns to Machalilla National Park, it offers outdoor adventures and scenery. Kontiki Expeditions provides eight-day yacht cruises along the coast, visiting five provinces, including Isla de la Plata and Salinas.
Kontiki Expeditions, part of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, operates a small ship with nine staterooms and a high crew-to-guest ratio. Direct flights to Guayaquil from U.S. airlines improve access. Coastal Ecuador, with its blend of adventure and luxury cruising, is an emerging water-based destination, increasingly featured in travel and leisure mag.
The Explora I
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Image: Explora I cruise ship exterior, highlighting modern luxury and ocean travel, a new option for water-based journeys as featured in travel and leisure mag.
Explora Journeys is launching “ocean journeys” aboard the new Explora I in July 2023. This 461-suite vessel will offer Mediterranean itineraries, visiting both popular and less-visited ports.
Explora CEO Michael Ungerer emphasizes authentic connections and luxury experiences. Explora I will feature 18 restaurants and bars and a large spa. Suites will all have private verandas. Explora I aims to offer a new style of luxury ocean travel, providing ample space and high-end amenities, a novel approach to water-based vacations highlighted by travel and leisure mag.
Greenland
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Image: Glacier in Greenland, showcasing the dramatic icy landscapes and polar beauty, making Greenland a unique water-based destination as recommended by travel and leisure mag.
Greenland is emerging as a polar destination. The National Geographic Resolution will sail Greenland’s eastern shore in June 2023. Ponant offers numerous itineraries in 2023, including Baffin Bay explorations. The new Seabourn Venture will also explore Greenland in 2023, with itineraries extending through the Northwest Passage to Alaska. Regent Seven Seas Cruises is also featuring Greenland, with sailings visiting Prince Christian Sound and Nuuk.
Greenland offers a different polar experience from Antarctica, with vast landscapes and horizons, making it an increasingly attractive destination for water-based expeditions, a trend noted by travel and leisure mag.
Hvar, Croatia
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Image: Lavender fields on Hvar, Croatia, highlighting the island’s natural beauty and Mediterranean atmosphere, making Hvar a sunny and scenic water-based destination as per travel and leisure mag.
Hvar, Croatia, known as Croatia’s sunniest island, offers a bright 2023 travel option. Activities include cycling, kayaking to secluded beaches, and stargazing, with Jesla recognized as Southern Europe’s first International Dark Sky Community.
Moeesy, Hvar’s newest luxury hotel, offers stargazing suites. Velo Grablje hosts a lavender festival in July. Riva Marina hotel in Hvar town reopened with refreshed suites, and Beach Bay, Hvar’s first sustainable hotel, opened in 2022. Hvar’s sunny climate, natural beauty, and growing luxury offerings make it an ideal water-based destination, increasingly popular in travel guides like travel and leisure mag.
The Path of Totality
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Image: Sunset viewing from Le Lapérouse ship, representing the luxury and unique experiences offered during eclipse cruises to the Path of Totality, a water-based adventure recommended by travel and leisure mag.
The total solar eclipse on April 20, 2023, will cross the Indian Ocean, Australia, Indonesia, and East Timor. Observing this phenomenon often requires travel to remote locations, making a cruise an ideal option.
Le Lapérouse offers a Ponant and Smithsonian Journeys cruise from Bali to Australia for eclipse viewing. Celestia yacht will also sail around the edges of totality, visiting Komodo National Park and Raja Ampat. Western Australia offers the best land-based viewing, particularly the Exmouth Peninsula. Pacific Explorer cruise from Perth provides another sea-based viewing option. Following the Path of Totality offers a unique water-based travel experience, combining adventure with astronomical events, a concept often explored by travel and leisure mag.
For Fresh Air and Nature
Andorra
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Image: Skiing in Andorra, Vallnord Pal Arinsal, highlighting mountain sports and winter scenery, making Andorra a fresh air and nature destination for adventure travelers according to travel and leisure mag.
Andorra, a small European country in the Pyrenees, is becoming a major ski destination. With reliable snow conditions from December to April, Andorra’s ski areas are now part of the Ikon Pass, including Grandvalira, Ordino Arcalís, and Pal-Arinsal, collectively offering 7,600 acres of terrain.
The Andorra Pass provides access to these resorts at a relatively low daily cost. The Nord Pass offers access to Ordino Arcalís and Pal-Arinsal at an even lower price. While access can be challenging, Andorra’s affordable, large-scale skiing is making it an increasingly attractive fresh air and nature destination, especially for readers of travel and leisure mag seeking outdoor adventures.
Asheville, North Carolina
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Image: S&W Market, Asheville, North Carolina, highlighting urban dining and local culinary experiences, complementing Asheville’s natural attractions as a fresh air destination as featured in travel and leisure mag.
Asheville, North Carolina, in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers year-round outdoor activities and sophisticated dining. Asheville Regional Airport is experiencing record growth, improving accessibility. New accommodations include Wrong Way River Lodge, AutoCamp Asheville, and Restoration Hotel. The Glamping Collective offers nature-centric stays near the city.
Asheville’s food scene is enhanced by S&W Market food hall. Established favorites like French Broad Chocolates and Battery Park Book Exchange remain popular. Asheville’s blend of outdoor recreation and urban amenities makes it a compelling fresh air and nature destination, often recommended by travel and leisure mag.
Aysén, Chile
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Image: Aysén region, Chile, showcasing Patagonian landscape with mountains and lakes, highlighting natural beauty and outdoor adventure opportunities, making Aysen a fresh air and nature destination according to travel and leisure mag.
Chile’s Aysén region in Patagonia, between Torres del Paine and the Lake District, offers stunning landscapes of glaciers, fjords, and peaks. Largely unexplored, Aysén is becoming more accessible with new ecotourism routes and itineraries developed by organizations like Chile’s Route of Parks.
Explora opened a lodge in Patagonia National Park, offering trips with flights, accommodations, and activities. Improved access, relaxed COVID-19 restrictions, and Delta-Latam partnerships enhance travel to Aysén. Aysén’s untouched Patagonian wilderness positions it as a prime fresh air and nature destination, increasingly recognized by travel and leisure mag.
The Hudson Valley, New York
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Image: Foreland, Hudson Valley, New York, illustrating cultural venues and artistic spaces in a region known for natural beauty, making Hudson Valley a fresh air and nature destination with cultural appeal as per travel and leisure mag.
The Hudson Valley, north of New York City, is evolving from rustic to glam. The Ranch Hudson Valley, an offshoot of The Ranch Malibu, is opening in summer 2023. Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resorts Collection, will highlight pastoral charm with cabins and farm-to-table dining.
New culinary spots include Merchants Social, Stissing House, Darlings, and Catskills Chocolate Co. Foreland in Catskill is a new kunsthalle, and Storm King Art Center is undergoing a renovation. The Hudson Valley’s blend of natural beauty, upscale experiences, and cultural attractions makes it a refined fresh air and nature destination, frequently featured in travel and leisure mag.
Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia
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Image: Elephant in Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia, showcasing wildlife and river safari experiences, highlighting Zambia as a fresh air and nature destination for unique safari adventures, as recommended by travel and leisure mag.
Lower Zambezi National Park in Zambia offers unique river safaris. Travel advisor Leora Rothschild recommends it for its dynamic river-based wildlife viewing. Lolebezi lodge, opened in June 2022 by African Bush Camps, provides luxury accommodations within the park.
Lower Zambezi, opposite Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools, is rich in wildlife, including elephants and buffalo. Air Botswana relaunched flights to Lusaka, improving access. Lower Zambezi National Park offers an exceptional fresh air and nature experience, especially for safari enthusiasts, a destination increasingly highlighted by travel and leisure mag.
Prince Edward Island, Canada
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Image: Prince Edward Island coastline, Canada, showcasing scenic rivers and coastal beauty, making Prince Edward Island a fresh air and nature destination with outdoor appeal as per travel and leisure mag.
Prince Edward Island (PEI), Canada’s smallest province, offers rugged cliffs, red-sand beaches, and golf courses. The Island Walk, a 435-mile trail opened in 2021, traces the coastline, passing through towns and villages.
Slaymaker & Nichols inn and gastropub in Charlottetown offers new accommodations. Inn at Bay Fortune provides a culinary experience by chef Michael Smith. PEI’s natural beauty and outdoor activities make it a charming fresh air and nature destination, often appreciated by readers of travel and leisure mag seeking peaceful escapes.
Tanzania
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Image: Night sky over Usangu Expedition Camp, Tanzania, highlighting stargazing and wilderness experiences, making Tanzania a fresh air and nature destination for unique African adventures as per travel and leisure mag.
Tanzania is evolving, with President Samia Suluhu Hassan focusing on infrastructure and sustainable travel. High-speed internet on Mount Kilimanjaro symbolizes this progress. Usangu Expedition Camp in Ruaha National Park opened in 2023, emphasizing conservation. Selous Safari Company refreshed its Fanjove Island reserve for “marine safaris.”
Tanzania’s focus on development and sustainable tourism, combined with its natural attractions and new eco-friendly camps, makes it a forward-looking fresh air and nature destination, increasingly recognized by travel and leisure mag.
Uttar Pradesh, India
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Image: Ganges River ghats, Uttar Pradesh, India, illustrating spiritual and riverfront scenes, highlighting cultural and natural aspects of Uttar Pradesh as a fresh air and nature destination according to travel and leisure mag.
Uttar Pradesh, India, is reopening to travelers in 2023. Beyond the Taj Mahal, Uttar Pradesh offers attractions like the Ganges River ghats in Varanasi. Vana, a wellness retreat in Dehradun, now managed by Six Senses, provides rooms overlooking lush landscapes.
Uttar Pradesh’s blend of iconic cultural sites and new wellness retreats in natural settings makes it a compelling fresh air and nature destination in India, a destination increasingly highlighted by travel and leisure mag.
For Beach Vibes
Bermuda
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Image: Sunken Harbor Club, Bermuda, featuring oceanfront dining and sunset views, highlighting Bermuda’s beach and leisure atmosphere, making it a top beach destination according to travel and leisure mag.
Bermuda is becoming more accessible in 2023, with American Airlines resuming flights from NYC. L.F. Wade International Airport has a new terminal with enhanced facilities. Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa recently renovated, adding villas and a Sunken Harbor Club outpost. The St. Regis Bermuda, opened in 2021, offers a casino and ocean views.
Bermuda has removed COVID-19 entry requirements and continues its remote work program. Bermuda’s ease of access, new luxury amenities, and pink-sand beaches solidify its appeal as a beach destination, often recommended by travel and leisure mag.
Cayman Islands
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Image: Sea turtle in Cayman Islands waters, highlighting snorkeling and marine wildlife, making Cayman Islands a premier beach destination for water activities as per travel and leisure mag.
Cayman Islands’ accessibility is improving, with Cayman Airways offering nonstop flights from Los Angeles. The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, is newly renovated with a La Prairie Spa and Saint June restaurant. Cayman Cookout event continues annually.
Beyond beaches, hiking reserves like Mastic Trail and the Bluff offer inland adventures. A growing art scene, centered around the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands and new hotels like Palm Heights, adds cultural appeal. Cayman Islands’ blend of beach relaxation, adventure, and culture makes it a diverse beach destination, often featured in travel and leisure mag.
Coastal Uruguay
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Image: James Turrell’s Skyspace in Coastal Uruguay, showcasing modern art and coastal landscapes, highlighting Uruguay’s beach and cultural appeal as a destination recommended by travel and leisure mag.
Coastal Uruguay is poised for a breakout year, with vast skies, beaches, and a growing art scene. The Atchugarry Museum of Contemporary Art in Punta del Este opened in 2022. James Turrell’s “Ta Khut” Skyspace opened at Posada Ayana in José Ignacio. Vik Retreats properties in José Ignacio also offer contemporary art. Garzón village is becoming an artist hub with Campo.
Coastal Uruguay’s blend of beach relaxation and art destinations makes it a unique beach vibe destination, increasingly recognized by travel and leisure mag.
Guadeloupe
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Image: La Soufriere volcano, Guadeloupe, illustrating volcanic landscapes and natural adventure opportunities, complementing Guadeloupe’s beach appeal as a destination highlighted by travel and leisure mag.
Guadeloupe, a French overseas department, offers mountains, beach towns, and resorts. JetBlue has relaunched nonstop flights from NYC to Pointe-à-Pitre. Air France and American Airlines also serve Guadeloupe.
Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre islands offer diverse experiences, with Guadeloupe National Park on Basse-Terre. Accommodations include Club Med La Caravelle, Le Jardin Malanga Hotel, and La Toubana Hotel & Spa. Guadeloupe’s blend of Caribbean beaches and French culture makes it a unique beach destination, increasingly accessible and noted by travel and leisure mag.
The Jersey Shore, New Jersey
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Image: The James hotel, Jersey Shore, New Jersey, showcasing boutique accommodations and coastal style, highlighting the Jersey Shore as a revitalized beach destination as per travel and leisure mag.
The Jersey Shore is evolving beyond its TV image. The James Bradley inn opened in Bradley Beach in 2022, targeting a quieter, chicer crowd. Asbury Park is seeing upscale developments like The Asbury Hotel and Asbury Ocean Club. Atlantic City casinos have undergone renovations.
A Nobu Hotel is planned for the boardwalk. The Jersey Shore’s renaissance, with new luxury and dining options, is making it a refreshed beach destination, increasingly recognized by publications like travel and leisure mag.
Maui, Hawaii
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Image: Maui beach sunset, Hawaii, illustrating iconic beach scenery and leisure travel, making Maui a perennial top beach destination according to travel and leisure mag.
Maui, Hawaii, is balancing tourism with environmental and community well-being. Resorts are being renovated, including The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, and The Grand Wailea. The Ritz-Carlton Maui is enhancing its aquatic complex and cultural programming. The Grand Wailea is refreshing guest rooms and suites.
E-bikes are now permitted on Maui roads, facilitating exploration. Maui’s ongoing resort enhancements and natural beauty maintain its status as a premier beach destination, frequently praised in travel and leisure mag.
Riviera Maya, Mexico
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Image: Casa Chablé, Riviera Maya, Mexico, showcasing luxury beachfront accommodations and tropical scenery, highlighting Riviera Maya as a destination for upscale beach vacations as per travel and leisure mag.
Riviera Maya, Mexico, is welcoming new hotels, including Waldorf Astoria Cancun, Casa Chablé, The St. Regis Kanai Resort, and Riviera Maya Edition at Kanai. Maroma, a Belmond Hotel, is reopening after renovation with new suites and a Guerlain spa. Hotel Esencia added a luxurious four-bedroom mansion.
The Maya Train project is expanding access to cultural sites, and Tulum airport is expected to open in 2023. Riviera Maya’s influx of luxury hotels and improved infrastructure solidify its position as a top beach destination, consistently featured in travel and leisure mag.
Riviera Nayarit, Mexico
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Image: Susurros del Corazón, Riviera Nayarit, Mexico, illustrating luxury resort pools and ocean vistas, making Riviera Nayarit a destination for upscale beach vacations as recommended by travel and leisure mag.
Riviera Nayarit, Mexico, is enhancing its vacation appeal. Susurros del Corazón, Auberge Resorts Collection, opened in 2022, offering unique experiences. Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort, is opening in December 2022, focusing on wellness. JetBlue launched nonstop flights from JFK to Puerto Vallarta, improving access.
Riviera Nayarit’s new luxury resorts and improved accessibility are enhancing its status as a top beach destination, increasingly recognized by travel and leisure mag.
U.S. Virgin Islands
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Image: US Virgin Islands, St. Croix Carnival and St. Thomas Sapphire Beach, showcasing cultural events and beach leisure, highlighting US Virgin Islands as a diverse beach destination as per travel and leisure mag.
U.S. Virgin Islands offer easy access for East Coasters with no passport needed and no pandemic restrictions. The islands established a Territorial Park System Trust Fund Board to preserve natural attractions. Caribbean flavors are highlighted by events like King of the Wing competition and Taste of St. Croix festival. Carnival celebrations return across St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix.
U.S. Virgin Islands’ ease of travel, cultural events, and natural beauty make them a top beach destination, especially for those seeking convenient Caribbean getaways, a sentiment echoed by travel and leisure mag.
For a Look at the Future
Bhutan
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Image: Trans Bhutan Trail hiker, Bhutan, highlighting trekking and mountain landscapes, showcasing Bhutan’s focus on sustainable tourism and unique cultural experiences, as recommended by travel and leisure mag.
Bhutan reopened to tourists in September 2022 after 30 months, coinciding with the reopening of the 250-mile Trans-Bhutan Trail after 60 years of redevelopment. The trail connects 400 historic sites and offers natural scenery. Bhutan ended the mandatory guide policy but increased the Sustainable Development Fee to $200/day to fund conservation and cultural programs.
Six Senses opened its fifth Bhutan lodge, Six Senses Bumthang, in 2020, now accessible to international visitors. Bhutan’s focus on sustainable, high-value tourism and unique cultural experiences makes it a future-forward destination, often praised in travel and leisure mag.
Boten–Vientiane Railway, Laos
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Image: China-Laos Railway, Vangvieng station, Laos, illustrating modern rail infrastructure and scenic train travel, highlighting Laos’s development and future travel accessibility as featured in travel and leisure mag.
The Boten–Vientiane railway in Laos, opened in 2021, is transforming travel in the region. This cross-country railroad, part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, reduces travel times across Laos’s landscapes. The route connects Boten to Vientiane, passing through Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng.
Intermediate stations are opening up new areas for tourism. The railway may become part of a larger Singapore to Shanghai route. Laos’s new railway infrastructure is positioning it as a more accessible and future-oriented destination, a development noted by travel and leisure mag.
Kyoto, Japan
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Image: Nijo Castle, Kyoto, Japan, illustrating historical sites and cultural tourism, highlighting Kyoto’s blend of tradition and modernity, making it a future-focused destination according to travel and leisure mag.
Kyoto, Japan, is re-emerging after Japan’s reopening to independent travelers in October 2022. The Gion Matsuri festival will return in full force in July 2023. Gozan Okuribi bonfire celebration will be held in August. New hotels include Dhawa Yura Kyoto and Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto. Maana Kiyomizu offers stays in restored machiya townhouses.
Delta Air Lines has added new routes to Tokyo, improving access. Kyoto’s blend of traditional culture with modern hospitality and improved accessibility positions it as a future-forward destination, especially for readers of travel and leisure mag interested in Japanese culture.
New Zealand
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Image: Flockhill bathtub view and Kingi restaurant interior, New Zealand, showcasing luxury accommodations and modern dining, highlighting New Zealand’s reopening and future-focused travel offerings as per travel and leisure mag.
New Zealand has dropped all travel restrictions and is becoming more accessible with Air New Zealand’s nonstop flights between New York and Auckland. Auckland is evolving with new hotels like Hotel Britomart and Mawhiti Walheke. Flock Hill offers luxury villa accommodations in the Southern Alps.
New Zealand’s reopening and improved accessibility, combined with new luxury accommodations and urban developments, position it as a future-forward destination, frequently recommended by travel and leisure mag.
Teahupo’o,Tahiti
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Image: Teahupo’o lagoon, Tahiti, highlighting tropical beauty and surfing waves, making Tahiti a destination gaining future global attention and recommended by travel and leisure mag.
Teahupo’o, Tahiti, will host the 2024 Paris Olympics surfing events. The year ahead is ideal to visit before the Olympic spotlight. Teahupo’o offers surfing for experienced surfers and coaching from accommodations like Tahurai. Tour companies like Teahupo’o Tahiti Surfari offer boat tours to see waves and lagoons.
Delta Air Lines and Air Tahiti Nui have improved flight access. Tahiti’s upcoming Olympic hosting and natural surf beauty position it as a future-focused destination, increasingly recognized by travel and leisure mag.
Victoria, British Columbia
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Image: Victoria floating homes, British Columbia, illustrating urban waterfront and sustainable living, highlighting Victoria’s eco-tourism and future-forward city planning as per travel and leisure mag.
Victoria, British Columbia, prioritizes sustainability, aiming for carbon-neutral buildings by 2025 and reduced landfill waste by 2040. Victoria offers “green travel” itineraries, highlighting outdoor beauty in places like Goldstream Provincial Park. Carbon-neutral hotels include Inn at Laurel Point and Parkside Hotel & Spa. Big Wheel Burger is a carbon-neutral fast-food option.
Eco-activities include e-biking and orca-watching tours with Eagle Wing Tours. Victoria’s commitment to sustainability and eco-tourism makes it a future-forward destination, appealing to environmentally conscious travelers, as highlighted by travel and leisure mag.
Vienna
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Image: Vienna modern architecture and tram, Austria, showcasing urban development and sustainable transport, highlighting Vienna’s blend of history and future-forward initiatives as per travel and leisure mag.
Vienna is celebrating the 150th anniversary of its World’s Fair and the 300th anniversary of the Belvedere in 2023. The Belvedere will host an art nouveau exhibit. Rosewood Vienna is a new hotel in a repurposed neoclassical building. Reznicek and Grace are new dining venues in historic settings.
Vienna is expanding bike paths and electric bus networks, with new developments in Aspern. New hotels include Hotel Josefine and Hotel Gilbert. The Paris to Vienna Nightjet train improves access. Vienna’s blend of historical celebrations and modern urban development positions it as a future-forward destination, frequently recognized by travel and leisure mag.
This guide, inspired by the insightful recommendations found in Travel + Leisure mag, offers a diverse array of destinations for every type of traveler in 2023. From cultural immersions and culinary explorations to urban adventures, nature escapes, and beach retreats, these 50 locations represent the best the world has to offer. As you plan your travels, we encourage you to explore these destinations and discover your own unforgettable experiences, mirroring the spirit of adventure celebrated by Travel + Leisure mag for years.
