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WHERE WILL YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE TAKE YOU?

Explore the World

The world is just waiting to be explored. From the best of the U.S. and Canada, to exotic excursions in Europe, Africa, and beyond, Holiday Vacations delivers the world’s most captivating destinations in comfort and style. Get inspired for your next adventure, or find the perfect way to experience your bucket list vacation.

Activity Levels

holiday travel destinations

Tour days tend to be shorter in length, at a relaxed pace, and include lots of unscheduled time for leisure. Expect standing and walking for extended periods of time on flat surfaces, mostly low altitudes, and consistent temperatures.

holiday travel destinations

Tour days usually move at a leisurely pace. Some days’ scheduled activities last longer than others. Expect standing and walking for long periods of time on occasionally uneven terrain. You may experience changes in altitude or temperature.

holiday travel destinations

Tour days tend to be long, move at a consistent pace, and may include long travel days. Expect standing and walking for long periods of time on uneven surfaces. Some destinations may have changes in altitude and/or temperature.

holiday travel destinations

Tour days tend to be long, move at a brisk pace, and may include lengthy travel days. Expect long periods of walking and standing on uneven surfaces. Scheduled activities may require physical effort or have distinct changes in altitude or temperature.

holiday travel destinations

Very Active

Tour days tend to be long, move at a vigorous pace, and may include lengthy travel days. Expect long periods of walking and standing on rough surfaces. Scheduled activities may require physical effort or have distinct changes in altitude or temperature.

The Top Holiday Travel Destinations Of 2023

From sunny beaches to snowy slopes, these are our picks for the best year-end holiday destinations, both domestic and international

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A couple takes a selfie in Barcelona.

Whether traveling to be with family, get away from family, or to visit the sunny shores of Costa Rico or the slippery snowy slopes of Vail, Colorado, odds are you won’t be alone during this most wonderful time of the year. Data has revealed the top holiday travel destinations of 2023, so you can see if your vacation destination made the list. 

Traveling for the holiday season is bigger than ever this year, with AAA  predicting over 115 million Americans traveling 50 miles or more from home over the 10-day year-end holiday travel period — from Saturday, December 23, 2023, to Monday, January 1, 2024. That’s a 2.2% increase over last year. AAA's data collection also including finding the most popular travel destinations, based on flight booking information.

And since this is the season for spreading good cheer, it’s nice to know that gas prices and airfares are projected to be the same or even a bit less than last year. 

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According to AAA, the average price for a roundtrip ticket to Orlando this holiday season is $613, down from $735 last year. A roundtrip ticket to Las Vegas is now $508 compared to $705 in 2022. 

Meanwhile, U.S. gas prices are projected to be in the $3.10 and $3.20 range, while international petrol prices can range from $2.30 up to $8.50 per gallon. 

Here are the top travel destinations in 2023

Not sure where to go? Thanks to AAA’s flight booking data, we now know the top year-end holiday destinations, both domestic and international.

Take a look here:

Looking for travel destination inspiration?

If you’re strapped for cash but getting away from the hustle and bustle is just what you need, Kiplinger handpicked five bargain vacation destinations off the beaten path just in time for the holidays. 

Instead of pricey Barcelona, which hosts more than 30 million visitors each year, chose Lima, Peru. Or, bypass Vail, Colorado, and get away to Snowbasin, Utah, located just an hour’s drive from the Salt Lake City airport. 

Longing to build a sandcastle instead of a snowman? Florida has dozens of attractive destinations that are more affordable than Miami. Two of the best are St. Petersburg and Delray Beach. St. Petersburg for its "lively downtown, clubs and bars, and Delray Beach for its "thriving life with lots of restaurants, great street scene and beautiful beaches.

Kiplinger also checked in with a professional skier for recommendations on where to ski this winter , if you're looking for those thrills. 

And if you're traveling in retirement, we've got you covered too, with suggestions of great holiday destinations for retirees to check out this winter . 

When you're talking "let's pack our bags and get the heck out of here" kind of traveling, just remember that roadways and airports are unusually crowded during the holidays, so plan ahead — you don't want to get your tinsel in a tangle.

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For the past 18+ years, Kathryn has highlighted the humanity in personal finance by shaping stories that identify the opportunities and obstacles in managing a person's finances. All the same, she’ll jump on other equally important topics if needed. Kathryn graduated with a degree in Journalism and lives in Duluth, Minnesota. She joined Kiplinger in 2023 as a contributor.

Estate and gift tax exemptions are at an all-time high until the end of 2025. That may seem like a long way off, but setting things up could take longer than expected.

By Christopher F. Tate, J.D. Published 4 March 24

When it comes to saving for retirement, diversification is critical. Consider building your nest egg with a combination of accounts in addition to an ESOP.

By Peter Newman, CFA Published 4 March 24

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Here’s Where Travelers are Heading This Holiday Season

By Rachel Chang

Heres Where Travelers are Heading This Holiday Season

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Thanksgiving Sunday air travel this year shattered all-time Transportation Security Administration (TSA) numbers with a record 2,907,378 passengers screened at U.S. airports. Americans have certainly proven that they’re ready to go all in on holiday travel—and the December holidays are shaping up similarly. With a longer vacation window surrounding Christmas and New Year’s Day, travelers are setting out on a wide-ranging set of trending destinations, including a mix of classic urban cities, warm weather getaways, and even transoceanic trips.

“The period between schools getting out for the holiday and the New Year is one of the busiest for travelers, whether they’re heading back home or taking off on a big vacation,” Expedia Travel Expert Christie Hudson tells Condé Nast Traveler , adding that Americans are going “anywhere and everywhere.”

The festive period elicits a celebratory feel, elevating people’s sense of adventure. “Travelers want to create holiday season memories, whether that’s a spin around Rockefeller Center ’s seasonal ice-skating rink, a visit to a Christmas market in Munich , having breakfast with Mickey Mouse , or just lounging on a sunny beach for a week,” she says.

We reached out to popular booking sites to see where travelers are headed for their year-end getaways—find the results below.

New York City is still a classic holiday destination

On every list we obtained, New York City earned top marks, scoring the highest spot for Skyscanner ’s December domestic searches, second place for Kayak ’s holiday destinations, third for Priceline’ s domestic December holiday travel, and fourth for Google Flights ’ most searched cities during the year-end period. Expedia also noted it was among its most in-demand cities.

“Not surprising that New York City ranks as the top domestic destination with all the festive happenings that take place in the city during December, including parades, light shows, Christmas markets , and Broadway shows,” Skyscanner’s Travel Trends Expert Laura Lindsay says.

And the holiday spirit is already in full swing in the Big Apple, with an 80-foot-tall, 12-ton Norway Spruce shining bright as the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree ; meanwhile Saks Fifth Avenue is partnering with Dior for “most ambitious holiday windows and light show” in the store’s history, according to the New York Post . The city will also be shutting down an iconic stretch of the Fifth Avenue from 48th to 59th Streets to vehicular traffic on three Sundays, including Dec. 10 and 17, and transforming it into the festive celebration, “The Gift of Fifth.”

Hudson says holiday movies are another reason New York City is so popular this time of year, with travelers set-jetting to locales they’ve seen on screen. “People are also very inspired by TV and movies,” she says, noting that the city is the backdrop for classic holiday films like Home Alone 2: Lost in New York and Elf.

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Americans love flying south for the winter

As cooler temperatures envelope much of the country, many travelers also seek sunnier getaways. “We are seeing Americans looking to beach destinations this holiday season," says Google Flights Group Product Manager James Byers. “Whether they are seeking out warmer weather or visiting family and friends, over 50 percent of the list includes destinations with beaches and sunny skies.”

Topping Google’s list for warm weather locales is Cancun , followed by Miami/Fort Lauderdale, San Juan , and Honolulu .

Priceline saw a similar trend, with southern cities like Orlando , Miami , Atlanta , and Los Angeles as its most popular holiday getaways. “Offering a mix of entertainment, amusement parks, and beaches, these experience-heavy destinations are a draw for all types of travelers this time of year,” says Christina Bennett, Priceline’s consumer travel expert.

The Bahamas

Expedia echoed the sentiment with Miami, Orlando, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas on its list. “There has also been a spike in searches to Caribbean destinations like the Bahamas, Jamaica , and the Dominican Republic as families may want to enjoy their time in the sun instead of experiencing a white Christmas at home,” Hudson says.

Mexico City ’s temperate climate has also helped boost it into a buzzed-about destination. “Whether you like big, well-known tourist attractions or you like finding quirky, hipster things to do, you can spend several days exploring the city,” Lindsay says. “Mexico City is the largest city in North America, and it definitely feels that way when you’re walking around.”

Japan is a popular international getaway

European capitals continue to be a favorite, with London coming in as the third most popular international destination, according to Priceline and Google Flights’ data—Skyscanner also found the British capital to be the top trending international destination of the year. Additionally, Paris appeared in the top 10 for those three travel platforms.

But the true international winner is actually across the Pacific Ocean. “ Tokyo is an unexpected place to see during the holiday season, but the city has been a recurring favorite on some of our top destination lists this year,” Byers says. The Japanese capital landed the second trending spot on Priceline and fifth on both Skyscanner and Google Flights.

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In fact, the entire nation has become a favorite for American travelers. “Japan continues to make a comeback after reopening last year, with Tokyo being one of the most searched and trending destinations for December 2023,” Lindsay says. She cites the country’s “skiing and snowboarding” as “worth visiting during the winter months.”

Unexpected New Year’s Eve favorites

Japan's boost this time of year may also be because of its festivities. “Tokyo is a great spot to spend New Year’s if you enjoy the energy of a big city to ring in the holidays,” Skyscanner’s Lindsay says. Data from Kayak backs that up with an 83 percent increase in year-over-year searches for Tokyo as a place to ring in 2024.

In fact, Kayak took a deeper look into searches between December 26, 2023, and January 3, 2024, to find the average increases of interest and found a wider breadth of destinations beyond the usual holiday favorites. The Cayman Islands’ George Town saw a 22 percent increase, Rome increased 21 percent, and St. Maarten rose 19 percent.

To round out the list, Bangkok rose 13 percent, Buenos Aires 12 percent, and Dubai 9 percent—it's clear that Americans aren’t afraid to go the distance to ring in the new year.

Google Flights’ top 10 holiday destinations

To see where Americans are most focused on, we turned to Google Flights to share its top searched destinations for trips leaving between December 20, 2023, and January 5, 2024 from U.S. airports.

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Browse by region, helping you find your ideal holiday.

TravelPicker is the impartial holiday destination guide. We give you handpicked destination suggestions based on your interests and preferences. We’re different from other holiday search comparison websites – because here you don’t need to know where you want to go on holiday . Quite often you won’t know where you want to fly to, and it can be frustrating using other websites that need to know your travel destination in advance.

Here you can simply add a few search terms such as who is going on your trip. A couple would expect a different experience from a family holiday, so we cater for that and tailor your destination suggestions based on your choice.

You can also specify how hot you like your holiday for a chosen month- for example you can find where is hot in January . You might be surprised the temperatures that you can find by visiting places early in the year such as Tenerife and Dubai , where they’re hot in February and March.

Flight time can also be a deciding factor for where to go on holiday . We cater for short-haul flights, which are under 3 hours, medium haul-flights are between 3 to 6 hours and long haul are 6 to 12 hours. Finally if you don’t mind, you can also set no limit for ultra long-haul flights above 12 hours.

A holiday budget is important to stick to, so we recommend to use this option. Travelling on a budget is possible through to luxury breaks.

What you’re looking for on a holiday is extremely important. We feature some amazing places with beaches , so definitely check out that option if you’re just after some hot sun. The city option is great for those who love a cheap citybreak , perfect for a quick weekend away. The countryside option is for those that like to be nearby nature and the great outdoors. If you like art and history then check out the culture option. If you’re looking for a romantic holiday then that’s the option for you. Some people prefer to base their holidays around shopping, so we have some great shopping trip locations for you. Others prefer to party into the night, for those we have the nightlife option. And if above all else you just want to kick back and relax by the pool or beach with a cocktail – check out our luxury holidays.

We’re completely independent and free to use. We don’t sell any holidays, flights or hotels ourselves, we help you choose then link you to some great providers, free of charge. We hope to inspire you and help you find your ideal holiday destination!

-TravelPicker team

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  • 35 Best Summer Holiday Destinations In The World: Turn The Vacation Mode On

The first thing that strikes one’s mind on hearing the word “summer” is that of vacations. As exciting as it may sound, selecting the best summer holiday destinations in the world for a perfect vacation, is a tedious task in itself. That is why we’ve done the homework for you and collated the best of top summer holiday destinations which will turn your international trip into an epic experience. From budget to luxurious places, you will find several options to choose from. We have covered it all – North, South, East & West. Each and every destination on the list is unique in its entirety, and fill you with excitement. So, if you want to spend one of the best summer vacations in the world, then let the scrolling begin!

35 Best Summer Holiday Destinations In The World

Here are the best summer destinations in 2023 to travel to for an amazing summer vacay with your folks! Read on, to know more about all these exciting places. There is a long list of the best places to visit in summer outside India. so, hang on, fasten your seatbelts, and get ready for the roller coaster ride of best holiday destinations in the world in summer!

  • Greenland – More Like A Snowy Wonderland
  • Cappadocia – The Land Of Hot-Air Balloons
  • London – Gape At The Big Ben Tower
  • Prague – Hub Of Baroque Buildings 
  • Marrakech – Admire Bucolic Nature
  • Siem Reap – Famous For Night Markets
  • Playa Del Carmen – Most Beautiful Beach Town
  • Pokhara – Get The Views Of Stunning Mountains
  • Cape Town – Get Bird-Eye View From Cable Car
  • New Zealand – Scenic Landscapes For Nature Lovers
  • Salt Lake City – Laze At Golden Beaches 
  • Las Vegas – Try Your Luck Here
  • Maui – Not Less Than A Paradise
  • Colombo – Respite From The Scorching Heat
  • Barcelona – All About Games & Nightlife
  • Hamburg – Watch Lakes Dotted With Boats
  • Colorado – A Summer Paradise
  • Koh Samui – Party All Night On The Beach
  • Whistler – Traverse The Hiking Trails
  • Iceland – Watch Colors Blend Beautifully
  • Marseille – Explore The Rich Culture Heritage
  • Kerala – Ride In The Houseboat On Backwaters
  • Mauritius – All About Coral Reefs & Beaches
  • Bali – Honeymooner’s Paradise
  • Teton County – Soothe Your Eyes With Greenery
  • Amalfi Coast – Coastal Peaks Against Pastel Buildings
  • Hoi An – A Place Out Of Dream World
  • Seychelles – Watch Sunset On Shimmery Coastline
  • Paros – A Blend Of White & Blue
  • Zermatt – Hike To The Swiss Alps
  • Andaman Islands – Witness Paradise On Earth
  • Tel Aviv – The City That Never Sleeps
  • Lima – Peru’s Wonderland
  • Tahiti – A Sweeter Place
  • Maafushi Island – Can’t Get Enough Of It

1. Greenland – More Of A White Land

A frosty view of Greenland which is one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world

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Fulfill your dream of visiting the Arctic Circle by taking a trip to Greenland, surely one of the best holiday destinations in the world. Greenland is the perfect place for a scenic boat trip that will take you across various icebergs and let you have a refreshing encounter with whales, walruses, and many more sea creatures. It’s going to be one of the best holiday destinations in the world in summer when this place will have longer days and shorter nights, giving you more time to indulge in fun activities in the daylight. So, if you are looking for a perfect destination then count Greenland in your list as it is one of the best places to visit in June outside India.

Tourist Attractions: Try sledding. Best Time To Visit: June to September How To Reach: Fly to Reykjavik in Iceland and then to Nuuk in Greenland. Places To Visit In Greenland : Ilulissat, Nuuk, Kangerlussuaq, Disko Bugt Things To Do: Dog sledding, backpacking, hiking, and kayaking Places To Stay : Hotel Arctic, The Blue Guesthouse, Hotel Kulusuk, and Hotel Hans Egede Places To Eat : Restaurant Mamartut, Restaurant Roklubben, and Restaurant Icefiord Tips: Pack an adequate amount of woollens and thermals. Language Spoken: Greenlandic Currency: Danish Krone (DKK) Suggested Duration:  7-8 days

Must Read: 95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World 

2. Cappadocia – The Land Of Hot-Air Balloons

the amazing view of hot-air balloon rides in Cappadocia

This marvellous city is known for its unique rock formations that have caves with ancient Islamic inscriptions. Mixed with the exotic culture and fascinating history of Turkey, this place is perfect for a romantic honeymoon, a trip with family, or even a solo backpacking adventure, making it one of the best places to visit in May outside India. The balloon-studded skies of Cappadocia aren’t the only thing that attracts people here. You’ll be equally blown away by its labyrinthine underground cities, caves, and ravines that will make you want to stay here forever. Visit this beautiful place and witness why this is one of the best summer destinations in the world.

Tourist Attractions: Hot air balloon ride Best Time To Visit: April to May How To Reach: Fly to Istanbul and take a bus or hired vehicle to drive to Cappadocia. Places To Visit: Pigeon Valley, Pasabag, Uchisar Castle, Hasandağı Things To Do: Hot air balloon rides, cave exploration, and hiking Places To Stay: The Cappadocia Hotel, Cappadocia Cave Suites, and Cappadocia Caves Hotel Places To Eat: Topdeck Cave, Inci Cave, Cappadocian Cuisine Tips: Carry two bottles of water wherever you go to stay hydrated. Language Spoken:  Cappadocian Greek Currency:  Turkish lira (TRY) Suggested Duration: 1-2 days

3. London – Gape At The Big Ben Tower

A blissful view of London which is one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world

London is world-famous for its blissful summer weather, strict British guards that stand outside the revered Buckingham Palace, and the delicious fish and chips that will keep you coming back for more! There are plenty of reasons why it’s one of the best places to visit in May out of India, but it’s charming festivals like St. Patrick’s Day, Pancake Day, and Beer Week take that awesomeness to a new level altogether! You can indulge in a lot of fun activities as there are many things to do in London . Alternatively, you can just hang out in the city’s bars and pubs to explore the fun nightlife and you’ll know why it’s one of the places to visit in summer outside India.

Tourist Attractions: Pancake Day festival Best Time To Visit: March to May How To Reach: Fly to London Heathrow Airport. Places To Visit : Big Ben, The London Eye, Tower of London, Tower Bridge Things To Do In London : Shopping, nightlife, sightseeing, and food tours Places To Stay : Wellesley Hotel, Heston Hyde Hotel, Hilton London Tower Bridge, and Good Hotel Places To Eat : Sketch, Padella, and Amrutha Lounge Tips: Carry a light jacket or cardigan. Language Spoken:  English Currency: Pound Sterling (GBP) Suggested Duration: 2-3 days

Suggested Read: 46 Places To Visit In December In The World

4. Prague – Hub Of Baroque Buildings

A stunning view of Prague highlighting its charm in the sunlight

Looking for some absolutely magical places to visit in May outside India? Well, Prague has everything to make that dream come true! From the melodiousness tunes of the Municipal House to the peace of the Spanish synagogue, everything in this city is worth visiting. Whether you choose to buy glass work near the Old Town or hike up to the Vysehrad Castle, you’ll surely end up having the time of your life! And the fact that it’s budget-friendly also makes it one of the top summer destinations for you to explore in Europe. Plus, the shopping places in Prague are worth checking out.

Tourist Attractions: Horse-cart ride near Old Town Best Time To Visit: May to September How To Reach: Fly to Prague airport and take the shuttle or taxi to reach the city. Places To Visit: Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, Old Town Square, St. Vitus Cathedral Things To Do In Prague : Shopping, hiking, visiting museums, and nightlife Places To Stay : Czech Inn, Hotel Carlton, Hotel NH Prague City, and Park Inn Hotel Places To Eat : Taaj Palace – Indian Restaurant, Bad Jeff’s Barbeque, and Restaurant Mlynec Tips: Get your currency converted only at certified stores. Language Spoken:  Czech Currency:  Czech Crowns (CZK) Suggested Duration: 2-3 days

5. Marrakech – Admire Bucolic Nature

A wonderful view of Marrakech which is one of the best summer holiday destinations in the World

If you want to experience the best of the Middle East without the noisy crowds, then you should get to Marrakech in Morocco which has been deemed one of the best summer destinations for all kinds of travelers. Famed for its unique mix of cultural diversity, this city has everything to make your summer vacation a memorable affair. You can choose to wander around the area of Jemma el-Fna, shop in colorful souks, and learn Morocco’s enchanting history in palaces and museums among other things.

Tourist Attractions: Camel rides in the desert Best Time To Visit: March to May How To Reach: Fly to Marrakech Places To Visit In Marrakech : Jama El f’na Market, Jardin Majorelle, Bahia Palace, Koutoubia Things To Do: Desert safari, shopping, food tours, and heritage tours Places To Stay : Riad Kasbah, Murano Resort, Hotel Sofitel, and Barcelo Palmeraie Places To Eat : The Red House, Corner Cafe, Al Fassia, and Naranj Tips: Don’t forget to apply generous amounts of sunscreen before stepping out. Language Spoken:  Arabic Currency:  Dirham (MAD) Suggested Duration: 3 days

Suggested Read: 18 Valentine’s Day Traditions Around The World 

6. Siem Reap – Famous For Night Markets

A perfect click captured directly from siem reap which is one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world

Wondering how this city landed on the list of the best holiday destinations in the world to visit in summer? Don’t worry, it deserves to be there! The temples of Angkor Wat are a fascinating site to explore in the summer season, provided you are visiting them either in the morning or in the evening. Also, this city happens to be one of the cheapest destinations in Asia, especially from March to June, making it one of the top holiday destinations in summer. You can wander around these unique temples, buy local food items at the floating village, wander around the town on a bicycle, and explore the Angkor Night Market when you’re here.

Tourist Attractions: A visit to Angkor Wat Best Time To Visit: December to January and June How To Reach: Fly to Siem Reap International Airport Places To Visit: Angkor Wat, Bayon, Floating Village, Angkor Night Market Things To Do: Temple tours, shopping, boating, cycling, and hiking Places To Stay : Lub D, Lotus Blanc Resort, Borei Angkor Resort & Spa, and Resort D’ Popular Places To Eat : Marum, Genevieve’s Restaurant, Cuisine Wat Damnak, and Haven Tips: Wear light cotton clothes and a hat at all times. Language Spoken:  Khmer Currency:  Cambodian Riel (KHR) Suggested Duration: 1-2 days

7. Playa Del Carmen – Most Beautiful Beach Town

A jaw-dropping view of Sea in Playa Del Carmen which is one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world

Playa Del Carmen happens to be a beautiful beach town in Mexico and is a little less touristy and crowded than other places in Mexico, which is why many consider it to be one of the best places to visit in May in the world. Here, you can go snorkelling at Cenote Dos Ojos, or at Cenote Azul, among other watersports. You can also visit South of Playa which has the ancient Mayan ruins in the town of Tulum. The Mexican food at Yucatan is inexpensive and delicious, and Mexican tacos are famous all over the world, making this one of the best countries to visit in summer for foodies!

Tourist Attractions: Try the Mexican seafood Best Time To Visit: December to April How To Reach: Fly to Cancún International Airport and take a taxi or bus to Playa Del Carmen (45 minutes away) Places To Visit: Playacar, Los Fundadores Park, 3D Museum of Wonders 3D Museum of Wonders Things To Do: Swimming, watersports, nightlife, shopping, and seafood Places To Stay : Newport House, We Playa, Grand Hyatt, and The Palm Places To Eat : Oh Lala, Kaxapa Factory, Harry’s Steakhouse, and Clorofila Tips: Be cautious while trying Mexican cuisine if you’re not a fan of spicy food. Language Spoken:  Spanish Currency:  Mexican Peso (MXN) Suggested Duration: 3-4 days

Suggested Read: Honeymoon In Mexico

8. Pokhara – Get The Views Of Stunning Mountains

Enjoy boat ride in Pokhara in Nepal and relish the best summer holidays

There’s no better place than Nepal (and Bhutan) for one of the best summer vacations in the world. It’s quite underestimated but deserves all the attention of adventure seekers, trekkers, couples, solo backpackers, and even nature lovers. Pokhara is bounded by stunning mountains and possesses a lot of scenic beauty that enthrals visitors. Blooming with blissful weather and brimming with energy in the summer months, Pokhara is the best summer holiday destination in the world that you just cannot miss out on in 2023. And the best part, with so many budget hotels, homestays, and guest houses in Pokhara , you don’t even have to worry about expenses!

Tourist Attractions: Paragliding over snow-capped mountains Best Time To Visit: April to June How To Reach: Fly to Pokhara International Airport. Places To Visit : Phewa Lake, Devi’s Falls, Begnas Lake, Mahendra Cave Things To Do: Trekking, paragliding, bungee jumping, ziplining, and boating Places To Stay : Himalayan Front Hotel, Zostel Pokhara, Tuki Resort, and Nature Side Cottage Places To Eat : Moondance Restaurant, Caffe Concerto, Olive Cafe, and Rosemary Kitchen Tips: Pack woollens and thermals even in summer. Language Spoken:  Nepali and Gurung Bhasaa Currency:  Nepalese Rupee (NPR) Suggested Duration: 2-3 days

9. Cape Town – Get Bird-Eye View From Cable Car

A stunning bird-eye view of Capetown which is one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world

This South Africa city is pleasant even in the dry season, which is why most consider it to be an excellent place for the best summer vacations in the world. The prices are also low, so you’ll be able to experience everything on a budget. Imagine enjoying a cable car ride to the top of Table Mountain and dining on the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront with the least crowd and noise! Amazing, isn’t it? With so much to see and do in the summer season, you’ll surely want to stay in Cape Town forever! Also, check out this list of some of the best day trips from Cape Town for an amazing vacation.

Tourist Attractions: Visit Boulders Beach to see penguins! Best Time To Visit: March to May How To Reach: Fly to Cape Town International Airport Places To Visit: Cape Point Nature Reserve, Signal Hill, Sea Point Swimming Pool, Robben Island Museum Things To Do: Swimming, picnicking, hiking, watersports, shopping, and food tours Places To Stay : Green Elephant Backpackers, Grande Kloof Boutique Hotel, Mojo Hotel, and DoubleTree By Hilton Places To Eat : Karibu Restaurant, Black Sheep Restaurant, Reverie Social Table, and Signal Tips: Do not venture into the alleys and streets alone at night. Language Spoken:  Afrikaans, English, Xhosa Currency:  South African Rand (ZAR) Suggested Duration: 3-5 days

Suggested Read: 11 Day Trips From Cape Town 

10. New Zealand – Scenic Landscapes For Nature Lovers

Scenic landscapes in New Zealand which is one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world

New Zealand is surely one of the finest best summer destinations in the world owing to the fact that it enjoys a summery weather when it is winter in Asia, giving us a perfect excuse to go there to escape the cold weather. It’s one of the most scenic and beautiful destinations in the world owing to the majestic landscapes that appear to be from another planet altogether! It’s also the perfect place for adventure seekers, nature lovers, honeymooners, photographers, birdwatchers, and those inspired to visit simply by the famous Hollywood movies that were shot here!

Tourist Attractions: Visit Hobbiton! Best Time To Visit: December to February How To Reach: New Zealand has multiple international and domestic airports located in its metropolitans. Places To Visit: Queenstown, Auckland, Rotorua, Christchurch, Wellington Things To Do: Shopping, sandboarding, kayaking, ziplining, learn about Maori culture, visit Glowworm caves, wine tasting tour Places To Stay : The Rees Hotel, Haka Lodge, Braemar Lodge & Spa, and The Sebel Auckland Manukau Places To Eat : Sidart Restaurant, Fleurs Place, and Sid at The French Cafe Tips: Pack woollens and thermals. Language Spoken:  English Currency:  New Zealand Dollar (NZD) Suggested Duration: 7-8 days

11. Salt Lake City – Laze At Golden Beaches

A gorgeous view of the Salk lake city in Utah

If you’re looking for the best places to go on holiday where you can stay most of the time outdoors, the capital of Utah is where you need to be. With so many beautiful beaches, pleasant weather, and unique experiences, the Salt Lake City offers a perfect touristy ambiance where you can relax, unwind, and repeat. The fascinating landscapes and pleasant weather will tell you why it’s one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world. 

Tourist Attractions: Spend time at the breathtaking beaches Best Time To Visit: September to October How To Reach: Fly to Salt Lake International Airport Places To Visit: Temple Square, Red Butte Garden, Hogle Zoo, and more. Things To Do: Hiking, cave touring, skiing, wildlife photography, and more. Places To Stay : Hyatt House, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Airport Inn Hotel, and Crystal Ranch Lodge & Resort Places To Eat : Reg Iguana, Takashi, Settebello, The Dodo, and Pallet Tips: Leave a 10-15% tip in restaurants. Language Spoken:  Spanish, Chinese, English Currency:  US Dollar (USD) Suggested Duration: 1-2 days

Suggested Read: 10 Fascinating Things To Do In Utah 

12. Las Vegas – Try Your Luck Here

A stunning view of nightlife in Vegas which is considered as one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world

While many may overlook Vegas as a summer place, believe us, it is a great place to holiday in the U.S, especially when the temperatures rise as that sets the time for the world’s best pool parties, making it one of the best summer destinations. Not just gaming at the casinos, but you can also go around bar and club-hopping to witness the vibrant and happening lifestyle of the sin city.

Tourist Attractions: Try your luck at Casino Royale Best Time To Visit: March to May and September to November How To Reach: Fly to McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas Places To Visit: MGM Grand, Grand Canyon, Fremont Street, Bellagio Fountains, and more. Things To Do: Gaming, pool partying, club hopping, watching a strip dance, and more. Places To Stay : Stratosphere Casino Hotel, Westgate Las Vegas Resort, Holiday Inn Express, Luxor Hotel & Casino Places To Eat : Eat, Aburiya Raku, Carson Kitchen, Other Mama, and Le Thai Tips: Go during the mid of the week if you’re on a budget trip. Language Spoken:  Spanish Currency:  US Dollar (USD) Suggested Duration: 2-3 days

13. Maui – Not Less Than A Paradise

An amazing view of Maui in Hawaii

Home to around 30 miles of beaches, Maui is a hidden gem in Hawaii not many know of. This place is one of the best holiday destinations in the world, where you can enjoy and live life at your own pace. As far as the reasons are concerned, there are plenty floating online. But if a paradise is all you seek, there’s nothing else that you need to be convinced that it’s one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world.

Tourist Attractions: Go snorkeling in Molokini Best Time To Visit: April to May and September to November How To Reach: Fly to Kahului Airport in Maui Places To Visit: Iao Valley, Kaanapali Beach, Seven Sacred Pools, and more. Things To Do: Visit the beaches, go wildlife spotting at Haleakala National Park, shopping, sunbathing, and more. Places To Stay : Lahaina Beach House, The Tiki Beach Hostel, The Mauian Hotel, and Wailea Beach Resort Places To Eat : Bistro Casanova, Betty’s Beach Cafe, Mama’s Fish House, and Da Kitchen Tips: Pack light and dress up like the Hawaiians do. Language Spoken:  Hawaiian Currency:  US Dollar (USD) Suggested Duration: 4-5 days

Suggested Read: 54 Best Places To Visit In India In Summer 

14. Colombo – Respite From The Scorching Heat

An aerial view of sri lankan city Colombo, one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world

If you’re looking for a cheap places to visit in summer in the world, Colombo is Sri Lanka is the best place to go. With weather and a landscape much like India, this place offers the perfect experience to enjoy a respite from heat and embrace it like a pro. There’s nothing in Colombo that you wouldn’t like and that’s what makes it so special. It is one of the best holiday destinations in the world.

Tourist Attractions: Visit the National Museum of Colombo Best Time To Visit: April to May How To Reach: Fly to Colombo International Airport Places To Visit: Beira Lake, Paradise Road, Gangaramaya Temple, Independence Memorial Hall, and more Things To Do: Visit the Galle Face Green, shopping, sightseeing, trying the different Sri Lankan cuisine, and more. Places To Stay : Iconic, Marino Beach Colombo, Cinnamon Lakeside, and Grand Oriental Hotel Places To Eat : Rare at Residence, The Lagoon, Curry Leaf, and Graze Kitchen Tips: Understand the culture and respect it. Language Spoken:  Sinhala Currency:  Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) Suggested Duration: 2-3 days

15. Barcelona – All About Games & Nightlife

An enchanting view of Barcelona which is one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world

If you are looking for the best holiday destinations in summer or May, then head to Barcelona in Spain. It is a beautiful city which is frequented by travelers due to its amazing art and elegant architecture. The city has some beautiful Roman archaeological sites and a dazzling nightlife due to its high-end pubs and bars. This is one of the best places to visit in May outside India.

Tourist Attractions: Unwind and relax at the beautiful beaches. Best Time To Visit: April to June How To Reach: Fly to Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport Places To Visit: La Sagrada Familia and Park Güell Things To Do: Visit Montjuïc and Plaça de Catalunya Places To Stay : Hotel Novotel, Hilton Diagonal Mar Barcelona, Casa Gracia, and Hotel Catalonia Park Guell Places To Eat : Casa Rafols, Rao Restaurant, Acces, UMA, and Cafe Menssana Tips: Plan your itinerary well so that you don’t miss out on anything. Language Spoken:  Spanish, Catalan Currency:  Euro (EUR) Suggested Duration: 2-3 days

Suggested Read: Spanish Travel Words And Phrases To Help One On A Trip To Spain And Latin America

16. Hamburg – Watch Lakes Dotted With Boats

A glorious view of Hamburg in Germany highlighting its picturesque landscapes

Located in the northern part of Germany, Hamburg is a global trading port, which is also known as the ‘Gateway to the World’. Whether it is extraordinary experiences like attending a night of Andalusian flamenco at the world-class concert hall or the rich cultural side of the city, a summer vacation here surely turns out to be like none other. This is no doubt one of the best summer destinations.

Tourist Attractions: Attend a concert at the world’s next great music venue. Best Time To Visit: May to October How To Reach: Fly to Hamburg International Airport Places To Visit: Heide Park, Miniatur Wunderland, Reeperbahn, Rickmer Rickmers, and more. Things To Do: Stay at a stylish hotel, chill at the Altes Madchen brewhouse, Shop at Maison Suneve, indulge in the famous cuisines, and more. Places To Stay : Hotel NH Hamburg Altona, Pyjama Park Hotel, St. Pauli Lodge, and Hotel Bee Fang Places To Eat : La Sepia, Phillips Restaurant, Haerlin Restaurant, and Das Dorf Tips: Summer is the peak season in Germany for tourists, so plan in advance. Language Spoken:  German Currency:  Euro (EUR) Suggested Duration: 1-2 days

17. Colorado – A Summer Paradise

A wonderful view of valleys in Colorado which is one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world

While Colorado is more of a winter place, it is also a summer paradise worth visiting with your close ones, making it one of the best holiday destinations in May. This place enjoys a moderate temperature, letting you indulge in activities like hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing, and more. Apart from the rich experiences, it is also home to luxury and comfortable stays, which look too dreamy to be true. It is one of those places that make for the best summer vacations in the world.

Tourist Attractions: Go for hiking in the rocky mountains and calm the adventurer and nature admirer in you all at once. Best Time To Visit: March to May and September to October How To Reach: Fly to Denver International Airport Places To Visit: Rocky Mountain National Park, Aspen, Colorado Springs, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, and more. Things To Do: Watch a live music performance at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre, visit the Mesa Verde National Park, spend time near the Arkansas River, and more. Places To Stay : The Estes Park Resort, Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa, and The Cliff House Places To Eat : Mountain Shadows Restaurant, Pepper Tree Restaurant, and Shuga’s Tips: Pack a sunscreen and a rain jacket. Language Spoken:  English Currency:  United States Dollar (USD) Suggested Duration: 2-3 days

Suggested Read: 41 Perfect Destinations To Spend Your Summer Holidays In India

18. Koh Samui – Party All Night On The Beach

A mesmerizing view of koh samui which is one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world for a romantic getaway

While there are too many places to see and explore in Thailand, Koh Samui is amongst the perfect summer vacation spots in the world for holidaying with your loved ones. By offering experiences like partying on the beach all night to indulging in all kinds of adventure, this place truly knows how to make a summer break memorable! Koh Samui nightlife is something that you cannot miss when travelling through this paradise. So, head to Thailand, one of the best countries to visit in summer.

Tourist Attractions: Attend the Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan and dance the night away! Best Time To Visit: March to June How To Reach: Fly to Bangkok Airport and take a boat or ferry to Koh Samui Places To Visit: Chaweng Beach, Wat Phra Yai, Hin Ta Hin Yai, Bophut Beach, and Samui Aquarium & Tiger Zoo. Things To Do: Indulge in snorkelling and scuba diving, attend famous parties, go sea kayaking, relax with a spa therapy, and more. Places To Stay : Weekender Resort, Chaweng Noi Pool Villa, KC Resort, and Melati Beach Resort & Spa Places To Eat : Supattra Thai Dining, Chez Francois, Mr, Kai Kitchen, and The Fish Restaurant Tips: Pack sunscreen and swimwear. Language Spoken:  Thai Currency:  Baht (THB) Suggested Duration: 2-3 days

19. Whistler – Traverse The Hiking Trails

A picturesque view of Whistler draw travellers from far and wide to have a memorable summer vacations

Located in the Coast Mountains, Whistler in Canada also makes as one of the great summer holiday destinations. With so many intriguing experiences like exploring the hiking trails, going on a bear tour, and more, taking a trip to this town means witnessing the shining gem of Canada all at once. It is one of the top places to visit in summer outside India.

Tourist Attractions: Take a ride in the record-breaking Peak 2 Peak Gondola. Best Time To Visit: June to August How To Reach: Fly to Vancouver International Airport and take a bus or taxi to get to Whistler. Places To Visit: Whistler Blackcomb, Garibaldi Provincial Park, Alexander Falls, Whistler Olympic Park, and more. Things To Do: Witness the town’s vibrant culture by visiting the art museums and cultural centres, dine at 21 Steps or Alta Bistro, and more. Places To Stay : Four Seasons Resort, The Westin Resort & Spa, Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa, and Pangea Pod Hotel Places To Eat : The Mexican Corner Restaurant, The Raven Room, 21 Steps Kitchen, Pasta Lupino Tips: Carry something warm as the evenings may get cold. Language Spoken:  Squamish Currency:  Canadian Dollar (CAD) Suggested Duration: 1-2 days

Suggested Read: 30 Best Honeymoon Places In India In Summer

20. Iceland – Watch Colors Blend Beautifully

iA colorful view of Iceland which is known as one of the top and best summer holiday destinations in the world

Being one of the best places to visit in summer in the world, Iceland is where every traveler needs to be if nature and adventure is what they love. This place offers not only breathtaking views, but also refreshing experiences that are enough to enjoy a respite from the humidity and heat. While this place can be visited anytime after March, the best time is during July or August. Also, do follow these Iceland travel tips for a great holiday.

Tourist Attractions: Enjoy a respite from the summer heat by relaxing in the world-famous Blue Lagoon Spa. Best Time To Visit: July and August How To Reach: Fly to Keflavík International Airport in Reykjavik Places To Visit: Reykjavik, Selfoss, Keflavík, Skaftafell, Arnarstapi, and more. Things To Do: Indulge in the geothermal spa at Blue Lagoon, visit Gullfoss, go on a whale-watching tour, witness the northern lights, and more. Places To Stay : The Barn, Moar Guesthouse, Hotel Ranga, Hotel Kea, and Blue House B&B Places To Eat : Fish Company, Krost, Mandi, Old Iceland, Noodle Station, and Messinn Tips: Craft an itinerary. Language Spoken:  Icelandic Currency:  Icelandic króna (ISK) Suggested Duration: 7-8 days

21. Marseille – Explore The Rich Culture Heritage

Experience the rich culture of Marseille in France which is one of the best holiday summer destinations in the world

Located in the heart of the Provence region, Marseille is a beautiful port city that serves as one of the best summer vacation spots in France. Having been an important source of survival via trading, Marseille enjoys a rich cultural heritage with more than 1500 years of history. Also, Marseille enjoys a pleasant climate in summer which makes it one of the best holiday destinations in July.

Tourist Attractions : Explore the Old Port which has been in trading action for more than 2,600 years. Best Time To Visit: June to July How To Reach: Fly To Paris International Airport and take an internal flight to Marseille Airport. Places To Visit: Notre-Dame de la Garde, Palais Longchamp, Marseille Cathedral, and more. Things To Do: Kayaking in Old Port, explore Fort Saint-Jean, caving and hiking at Calanque de Morgiou, and more. Places To Stay : City Residence, Hotel NH Collection, Golden Tulip Villa, and Hotel 96 Places To Eat : Tapas Rojas, Cafe Bovo, Maison Geney, and Restaurant Michel Tips: Book your stay in advance as it is the peak time. Language Spoken:  French Currency:  Euro (EUR) Suggested Duration: 2-3 days

Suggested Read:  27 Incredibly Charming Places To Visit In France

22. Kerala – Ride In The Houseboat On Backwaters

A mesmerising view of Kerala houseboat, India

The most famous and one of the best summer holiday destinations in South India, Kerala is a name which needs no introduction to travellers across the world. Being a perfect blend of hill stations, tea plantations, backwaters, and beaches, this tropical paradise of Kerala serves as one of the best holiday destinations in June . The various adventure sports in Kerala keep everyone entertained.

Tourist Attractions: Cruise the famous backwaters in a houseboat Best Time To Visit: June to August How To Reach: Fly to Cochin International Airport Places To Visit : Munnar, Periyar National Park, Fort Kochi, Muzhappilangad Beach, Chembra Peak, and more. Things To Do : Watch snake boat racing, indulge in Ayurvedic treatment, paragliding in Vagamon, stay in a tree house in Thekkady, and more. Places To Stay : The Garuda, Royal Club Holidays, PNA Resort, and Marmara Beach House Places To Eat : Trilogi Restaurant, Oceanos Restaurant, Ginger House Restaurant, and The Rice Boat Tips: Avoid Cut fruits. Language Spoken:  Malayalam Currency:  Indian Rupee (INR) Suggested Duration: 3-5 days

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23. Mauritius – All About Coral Reefs & Beaches

A delightful view of Mauritius in summer

Much famed among honeymooners, the tropical gem of Mauritius also serves as one of the top summer holiday destinations for all kinds of travellers alike. Famous for its crystal clear reefs, lagoons, and beaches, Mauritius enjoys a cool climate in summer that makes it one of the apt and best holiday destinations in May.

Tourist Attractions: It is a must to explore the famous Casela Nature Park Best Time To Visit: May to December How To Reach: Fly to Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport in Mauritius Places To Visit : Ganga Talao, Trou aux Cerfs, Tamarind Falls, Crocodile & Giant Tortoises Park, Rochester Falls, and more. Things To Do: Undersea walking in Ile Aux Cerfs, hiking in Black River Gorges National Park, snorkeling in Flic-en-Flac, and more. Places To Stay : Coral Azur Beach Resort, Manisa Hotel, Hennessy Park Hotel, and Laguna Beach Hotel & Spa Places To Eat : Sunshine Fusion Restaurant, Seabell Restaurant, Chez Tino Restaurant, and Beach Rogue Tips: Shop like locals. Language Spoken:  English Currency:  Mauritian Rupee (MUR) Suggested Duration: 5-7 days

Suggested Read: 33 Things To Do On Mauritius Honeymoon 

24. Bali – Honeymooner’s Paradise

A blissful view of Tanah Lot Temple in Bali which is one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world

The backpacker’s paradise and honeymooner’s heaven, Bali is a perfect blend of mountains, volcanoes, temples, reefs, and beaches that makes it one of the must places to go in the summer season. Offering post-card-like views of the sunset, Bali is also famous for nightlife, shopping, and its yoga retreats. The charming culture, the night shows, the picturesque islands, and the awesome food are enough to make you believe that it’s one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world.

Tourist Attractions: Witness quixotic sunset views from the famous Tanah Lot Temple Best Time To Visit: May to July How To Reach: Fly to Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali Places To Visit: Tanah Lot Temple, Uluwatu Temple, Ubud Monkey Forest, Mount Batur, Seminyak, and more. Things To Do: Surfing in Legian, wildlife safari in Bali Safari and Marine Park, watersports in Benoa beach, and more. Places To Stay : Senetan Villas & Spa Resort, Jannata Resort & Spa, Daun Lebar Villas, and The Lovina Bali Resort Places To Eat : Secret Garden Restaurant, Kubu at Mandapa, Mamasan Bali, and Cuca Restaurant Tips: Be cautious of wild and stray animals. Language Spoken:  Balinese Currency:  Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) Suggested Duration: 7-8 days

25. Teton County – Soothe Your Eyes With Greenery

An enchanting view of Teton County, Wyoming

Forming the heart and core of the Wyoming state, Teton County is undoubtedly one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world . Encompassing a surprise for every kind of traveller, Teton County is home to the famous Yellowstone National Park which serves as a paradise for adventure enthusiasts.

Tourist Attractions: Admire the colorful hot springs, geysers, and mudpots in Yellowstone National Park Best Time To Visit: April to May and September to October How To Reach: Fly to Salt Lake City International Airport and take an internal flight to Jackson Hole Airport in Wyoming Places To Visit: Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone Lake, Old Faithful, Jackson Lake, and more. Things To Do: Explore the hot springs at Yellowstone National Park, hiking at Teton Range, skiing at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Places To Stay : Teton Valley Resort, Ranch Inn Motel, Stage Coach Inn, and Moose Creek Ranch Places To Eat : Seoul Restaurant, Spur Restaurant, Trapper Grill, and Mangy Moose Steakhouse Tips: Carry a map if you plan on visiting the national park. Language Spoken:  English Currency:  US Dollar (USD) Suggested Duration: 1-2 days

Suggested Read: World’s 15 Most Romantic Mountain Getaways

26. Amalfi Coast – Coastal Peaks Against Pastel Buildings

A charming view of Amalfi Coast in Italy at the time of sunset which is known as one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world

Considered to be the coastal gem of Italy and the world’s best holiday destination, the Amalfi Coast is a true manifestation of nature’s beauty. With its picturesque landscape, coastal peaks, dense forests, and pastel buildings on the cliff, the Amalfi Coast shine bright like a star in the night and comes alive with first ray of the sun. A unique combination of nature and adventure, Amalfi Coast is indeed one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world.

Tourist Attractions: Hit the biggest beach on the Amalfi Coast at Positano Best Time To Visit: May to September How To Reach: Fly to Naples International Airport and take a bus or taxi to Amalfi Coast Places To Visit: Villa Cimbrone in Ravello, Amalfi Cathedral, Fiord in Furore, Museo della carta, Ravello Cathedral, and more. Things To Do: Hiking at Torre dello Ziro, ride through the Amalfi Drive, explore the Ancient City of Salerno, visit the tranquil beaches of Amalfi Town, and more. Places To Stay : Plaza Hotel, Hotel Savoia, Lloyd’s Baia Hotel, and Hotel Amalfi Places To Eat : Sensi Restaurant, Marina Grande, Shabu Amalfi, and Eolo Tips: Avoid visiting during the peak season. Language Spoken:  Italian Currency:  Euro (EUR) Suggested Duration: 3 days

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27. Hoi An – A Place Out Of Dream World

A sizzling view of Hoi An City in Vietnam

None of the ancient towns in the world are as perfect as the city of Hoi An in Vietnam. Preserved with utmost care and connected via canals, Hoi An is a perfect canvas of mixed cultures and traditions. Famous for its love for food, Hoi An is an architectural marvel, stylish in its decor, and vibrant as its soul, which makes it one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world.

Tourist Attractions: Take a cooking class in Hoi An City which is known for its excellence in food and drinks Best Time To Visit: February to May How To Reach: Fly to Hanoi International Airport and take a taxi or bus to Hoi An Places To Visit: Japanese Covered Bridge, Museum of Trade Ceramics, An Bang Beach, and more. Things To Do: Admire the architecture at Hoi An Ancient Town, visit the Quan Cong Temple, go on a cycling tour, and more. Places To Stay : Sun Paradise Villa, Four Seasons Villa, Royal Riverside Hotel, and Green Apple Hotel Places To Eat : Restaurant & Cafe Tuan, Nhan’s Kitchen, Streets Restaurant & Cafe, and MIX Restaurant Tips: Do not miss the sunrise tour. Language Spoken:  Vietnamese Currency:  Vietnamese dong (VND) Suggested Duration: 2 days

Suggested Read: Vietnam In Summer

28. Seychelles – Watch Sunset On Shimmery Coastline

A charming view of beach in Seychelles attracting backpackers for a memorable holiday

Seychelles is synonymous with a flawless beach paradise. Set in the Indian Ocean, Seychelles is a beautiful archipelago of 115 islands. With shimmery coastline, smooth white sand beaches, palm-lined shores, and crystal clear waters, Seychelles is absolutely one of the stunning and best summer holiday destinations in the world.

Tourist Attractions: For scenic views of Seychelles, go hiking at Anse Major Trail Best Time To Visit: April to May and October to November How To Reach: Fly to Seychelles International Airport Places To Visit: Curieuse Island, Aride Island, Bicentennial Monument, Anse Lazio Beach, Morne Seychellois, and more. Things To Do: Snorkeling in Sainte Anne Marine National Park, enjoy nature walking in the reserves of Vallée de Mai Places To Stay : Carana Hilltop Villa, Chez Batista Villa, Coco Bay Villa, and Sunset Beach Hotel Places To Eat : Del Place Restaurant, Bravo Restaurant, La Goulue, and Le Reduit Restaurant Tips: Pack a sunscreen and beachwear. Language Spoken:  Seselwa, English, French Currency:  Seychellois rupee (SCR) Suggested Duration: 5-7 days

29. Paros – A Blend Of White & Blue

An amazing view of coast at Paros Island, Greece

Located in the heart of the Aegean Sea, Paros is one of the most stylish Greek islands which is famous for its beaches and rural villages. The whole town is painted in white which strikes a balance with the turquoise waters and blue skies to treat your eyes with exhilarating views. After exploring this place, you will realize that it is one of the best places to visit in May in world.

Tourist Attractions: Go on a sightseeing tour in the beautiful town of Parikia Best Time To Visit: mid-April to mid-June How To Reach: Fly to Athens International Airport and take a ferry to Paros Places To Visit: Panagia Ekatontapiliani, Paros Archaeological Museum, Frankish Castle, Valley of the Butterflies, and more. Things To Do: Hit the Kolymbithres beach, camp at Agia Irini, visit the Golden Beach, enjoy horseback riding tours, and more. Places To Stay : Oasis Hotel, Apollon Boutique Hotel, Siren Paros, and Mr. Mrs. White Paros Places To Eat : Koralli Restaurant, To Takimi, Safran Restaurant, and Open Garden Restaurant Tips: Book your stay in advance to avoid high prices. Language Spoken:  Greek Currency:  Euro (EUR) Suggested Duration: 3 days

Suggested Read: 37 Best Places To Visit In March In The World 

30. Zermatt – Hike To The Swiss Alps

Enjoy freezy vibe of Zermatt in Switzerland which is one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world

Nestled in between the Swiss Alps, Zermatt is a quaint little town which is much famed as a haven for hiking, skiing, and mountain climbing enthusiasts. Due to its perfect weather condtitions, Switzerland is one of the best countries to visit in the summer. Perched high at a height of about 1600 meters, Zermatt lies in the foothills of the famous Matterhorn peak in Switzerland. Being a famous mountain retreat, Zermatt undoubtedly tops the charts when it comes to the best summer holiday destinations in the world.

Tourist Experience: Skiing, mountain climbing and hiking at the famous Matterhorn peak Best Time To Visit: June to September How To Reach: Fly to Zurich International Airport or Geneva International Airport and take a train, bus, or taxi to Zermatt Places To Visit: Matterhorn Museum, Observatory in Gornergrat, Schwarzsee Lake, Gorner Gorge, and more. Things To Do: Hike the Unterrothorn peak, take a ride on the Gornergrat railway, enjoy a cable car ride at Klein Matterhorn, and more. Places To Stay : Grand Hotel Zermatterhof, Chalet Zermatt Peak, Hotel Astoria, and Silvana Mountain Hotel Places To Eat : Restaurant Zum See, Chez Vrony, The North Wall Bar & Restaurant, and Sparky’s Bar Tips: Book in advance as summer is the peak time. Language Spoken:  German Currency:  Swiss Franc (CHF) Suggested Duration: 2-3 days

31. Andaman Islands – Witness Paradise On Earth

witness the paradise on Earth with Kayaking in Andaman which is one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world

If you have ever fantasized about running from the hum-drum of the city life to a place that offers exclusivity, calm, and beaches; then Andaman Islands is for you. Andaman Islands is a chain of 300+ islands lying between India and Thailand and is one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world. Virgin beaches, crystal clear water, mangroves, and coconut trees; this place is right out of a dream and feels surreal. Although some of the islands of this group are uninhabited and not accessible, the islands that are accessible are nothing less than a paradise and offers many places to visit in Andaman . The islands of Andaman offer exclusivity to travelers in the form of exquisite hotels, global cuisines, and picturesque views. You can spend your days here indulging in kayaking, hiking, swimming amidst the corals, and relaxing on the beach.

Tourist Experience: Swim with the Elephants Best Time To Visit: November to May How To Reach: One can reach Andaman by taking a flight to Port Blair. Places To Visit: Ross Island, Jolly Buoy Island, Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park Things To Do: Snorkelling, Kayaking, Scuba Diving, Visit to historical sites Places To Stay: Sea Shell Havelock, Vintage Residency, Sandyy Wavess Places To Eat: Full Moon Cafe, The Bayview, Mandalay Restaurants, Fat Martin Cafe Tip: Avoid swimming in ocean depths Language Spoken:  Bengali, Hindi, Tamil Currency:  Indian Rupee (INR) Suggested Duration:  5-7 days

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32. Tel Aviv – The City That Never Sleeps

A spectacular view of Tel Aviv Museum which is one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world

Israel is more than just Jerusalem – its historical capital. The Mediterranean-facing city of Tel Aviv is the place to go if you are thinking of witnessing the charm of Israel. Tel Aviv can be thought of as a modern metropolis that combines the modern touch of Israel with its rich history. From beaches to clubs, from thriving arts communities to its rich heritage, Tel Aviv offers everyone something for them to come back. The nightlife of the city is not only mesmerizing but it is unbeaten compared to the rest of the world. The indisputable fact is that this city rivals New York, and Miami in terms of food, bars, clubs, atmosphere, and experiences. The experience of scuba diving in Tel Aviv will tell why it is one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world.

Tourist Experience: Experience Nightlife at the Great Synagogue Best Time To Visit: March – April; September – November How To Reach: The main international airport is the Ben Gurion Airport situated 19kms away from the city. Places To Visit: Neve Tzedek, Tayelet, Tel Aviv Museum of Art, Carmel Market Things To Do: City Tour, Visit to the beaches, Admire street art, Witness Nightlife Places To Stay: Crowne Plaza Tel Aviv City Center, Embassy Hotel, Herods Tel Aviv By The Beach Places To Eat: Java, Kitchen Market, Zorik Cafe Tip: Use public transports to move and to and fro Language Spoken:  Hebrew Currency:  Israeli Shekel (ILS) Suggested Duration:  2-3 days

33. Lima – Peru’s Wonderland

A splendid view of Lima, one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world

Lima is one of best places to visit in June outside India since it typically enjoys cold weather. The highest temperature in June-July in Peru lingers around 20 degrees Celsius. On the brighter side, Lima will imprint your mind with so many wonderful experiences, the most famous one being hiking on the Inca trail . It is kind of a mandatory Peruvian experience. SInce it is also the capital of Peru, it is thriving with exciting adventures and vibrant nightlife.

Tourist Attractions: Admire the pyramid at Huaca Pucllana Best Time To Visit: May-September How To Reach: Various airlines have connecting flights on New Delhi-Lima route Places To Visit In Lima: Huaca Pucllana, Water Fountain Park, Plaza de Armas, Larco Museum Things To Do: Enjoy traditional cuisine, enjoy free walking tours, swimming with sea lions, paragliding Places To Stay: Pariwana Hostel Lima, Hostel Kokopelli Miraflores, Selina Miraflores Lima Places To Eat: Cafe Museo Larco, Astrid y Gaston, Punto Azul Tips: Keep all your valuables safe in a fanny pack and secure your backpack while traveling to avoid robbery. Language Spoken: Spanish Currency: Peruvian Sol (PEN) Suggested Duration: 3-5 days

Suggested Read: Plan An Exotic Peru Honeymoon For An Unforgettable Experience 

34. Tahiti – A Sweeter Place

A majestic view of Tahiti island which is known as one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world

Tahiti is one of the best places to visit in May out of India if you want to enjoy an island vacation. That’s not all! This picturesque island in French Polynesia also offers rugged landscapes and dreamy landscapes. Enjoy staying in over the water bungalows and watching the sunrise at the black sand beaches. You could also chase waterfalls in the dense forests of Tahiti. This place is packed with exciting surprises. It is definitely one of the best places to visit in summer.

Best Time To Visit: May and October How To Reach: Moorea or Papeete are the nearest airports to Tahiti that are well-connected with other islands in French Polynesia. Places To Visit In Tahiti: Papeete Market, Vaipahi Gardens, Fautaua Waterfalls, Papenoo Beach Things To Do: Hiking in Moorea, Papeete Walking tour, surfing, museum hopping Places To Stay: InterContinental Resort Tahiti, Tahiti Pearl Beach Resort & Spa, Tahiti Airport Motel Places To Eat: La Plage de Maui, Le Soufflé, Le Coco’s Tips: Booking early is key since it is a premier holiday destination Language Spoken: French Currency: CFA Franc Suggested Duration: 7-8 days

35. Maafushi Island – Can’t Get Enough Of It

A breathtaking view of Maafushi Island, one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world

Maldives is one of the best holiday destinations in the world where you can enjoy a tropical holiday all round the year. Since Maldives is a group of islands, Maafushi Island is one of the most-sought after islands in the archipelago. It is also the proposed capital of the Maldives archipelago. While there are a myriad of activities to indulge on your holiday, the best thing would be to lie on the beach and soak some sun. Since it is a year-round destination, Maafushi is also one of the best places to visit in June in the world.

Tourist Attractions: Snorkel your way down the coral reefs Best Time To Visit: All round the year How To Reach: Take a flight from New Delhi to Male Airport. It is a 45-minute speed boat ride to Maafushi Island from the airport. Places To Visit In Maafushi: Bikini Beach, Coral Beach, Sandbank Things To Do in Maafushi : Snorkeling, Dolphin watching, experiencing local culture, parasailing, night fishing Places To Stay: Velana Beach Hotel, Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives Places To Eat: Floating Bar & Safari Tips: Request the transfers to and from the airport at your resort Language Spoken: Dhivehi Currency: Rufiyaa (MVR or Rf) Suggested Duration: 3-5 days

Further Read: Maafushi Island: A Guide To The Unexplored Land In Maldives 

Are vacations on your mind already? Don’t wait anymore, get packed, customize and plan your own cool international trip with TravelTriangle and gear up this summer to enjoy an experience like none other and craft forever memories at one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world! Hold on! Make sure that you are carrying your camera with you so that you can capture some amazing views. 

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Frequently Asked Questions About Summer Holiday Destinations In The World

What are the top destinations to visit during winters?

Some of the beautiful destinations during winters are Prague in Czech Republic, Salzburg in Austria, Tromso in Norway, Amsterdam in Netherlands, Reykjavík in Iceland, Berlin in Germany, and Edinburgh in Scotland.

What are the top honeymoon destinations in the world?

The best honeymoon destinations to visit with your partner are Bora Bora, Paris, Florence, Mauritius, Seychelles, British Virgin Islands, St. Lucia, Maldives, Fiji, Maui, Amalfi Coast, Bali, Tahiti, and Santorini.

How long are the American summer holidays?

American summer holidays are 10 to 11 weeks long and start mostly around the end of June month. You should plan your trip accordingly and avoid visiting the U.S. cities if you wish to avoid the crowd at the popular public attractions.

Which are the top 10 holiday destinations?

The top 10 destinations that are a must to include in your bucket list are South Island in New Zealand, Paris, Bora Bora, Maui, Tahiti, London, Rome, Glacier National Park, New York City, and Maldives.

Which are the best beaches in the world?

Some of the best pristine beaches in the world are Aruba in the Netherlands, Palawan in Philippines, Bora Bora in French Polynesia, Maldives, Seychelles, Anguilla, Bermuda, Mykonos in Greece, and the British Virgin Islands.

Which are the best places to visit for a wildlife safari?

Some of the best places to go for a wildlife safari are Masai Mara National reserve, Central Kalahari Game reserve, Kruger National Park, Jim Corbett National Park, Zambezi River, Ranthambore National Park, and Selous Game reserve.

What are some of the cheapest countries to visit in the world?

The best countries to visit if you are on a tight budget are Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Indonesia, Nepal, Morocco, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Guatemala, Bolivia, Columbia, Bulgaria, Poland, and Romania.

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The 20 best holiday destinations in May

By Faith Strickland and Laura Chubb

20 best holiday destinations in May 2024

Can you almost taste it – Summer ’s citrusy zing in May’s creeping warmth and brightening light? May is a perfect time to travel; many holiday destinations are at their peak, and the sense of the upcoming new season is in the air.

Europe will be emerging into summer proper in 2024, everywhere from Tuscan hilltop towns to golden Grecian beaches – and, if you’re sustainably-minded, you can reach most of these dreamy destinations by train . And further afield, corners of Africa , the Caribbean and Canada will peak as well. So why wait a minute longer? It’s high time you hit the road. These are our favourite holiday destinations in May for sun, adventures and sightseeing.

Algarve Portugal

1. Algarve, Portugal

Temperature in May: 23°C high; 18°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 2 hours 55 minutes Time difference: GMT +0

Before you dismiss the Algarve – look between the tourist resorts and there is a quieter, more peaceful side to this coast. Not to mention some of the most fantastic beaches in Europe. In May the weather's hotting up but it's not yet too busy. Stay at the wonderful Bela Vista Hotel with an amazing spa on Praia da Rocha; and explore the secluded town of Castro Marim . Yes, the area is synonymous with beach holidays – but venture off the beaten track for quiet hillside retreats set in olive groves, such as Casa Arte, or Fazenda Nova , a quaint country house.

Sustainable travel tip: Portugal has been hit especially hard in our tough economic times, and spending your entire holiday in the Algarve’s seaside resorts doesn’t do much to help. But making time to explore inland hiking routes and family-owned B&Bs isn’t just good for local business, it’s good for your holiday, too. The 185-mile Via Algarviana traverses the region’s hills and rural villages from east to west, with plenty of lovely places to stay along the way (try Casa do Lavrador in Furnazinhas, where breakfast comprises a heavenly spread of homemade preserves, breads and cheeses).

Where to stay: Pine Cliffs Hotel , a restorative retreat stretching across 178 acres with eight swimming pools, is probably bigger than any hotel you’ll have been to before. It’s the kind of place where you can hole up for a week without having to get back in the hot hire car. For grandeur, Bela Vista – a prominent castle-like building on the beach – is stunning. If you're travelling with little ones, Casa Olhão is private villa set up to sleep four (with the option to have a baby bed or cot provided), and has a spacious upstairs kitchen, comfortable outdoor dining terrace and a wonderful rooftop. For more, see our pick of the best hotels in Algarve .

Sicily Italy

2. Sicily, Italy

Temperature in May: 22°C high; 12°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 2 hours 55 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

The football at the toe of Italy ’s boot, the Mediterranean’s largest island is a reliably sunny way to kick off an early summer. There’s scalded volcano country and fertile wine land, Greek temples and Roman ruins. You can wander the shady lanes of baroque hill towns such as Ragusa, then stroll sun-soaked plazas in the coastal city of Syracuse. Come May, the countryside blooms, and the water lapping the beaches is warm. Bring your towel with you when you go to lunch in the old fishing village of Porto Palo – Sicily ’s prettiest secluded cove, Capparrina di Mare, is just a little further west.

Sustainable travel tip: Cool fact: you can travel to Sicily by rail, aboard an InterCity train that gets loaded onto a ferry for the seafaring part of the journey. Arrive in Paris via Eurostar, then take the overnight Thello sleeper to Milan. From here, you can catch an InterCity sleeper service to several Sicilian destinations: Messina, Catania, Siracuse or Palermo (choosing Messina means you’ll disembark in time for lunch). Sound complicated? Railbookers can deal with the details.

Where to stay: Time hits differently at the milky-stoned Il San Corrado , amid the olive groves and light-filled courtyards once owned by an Italian prince. Meanwhile opulent marble bathrooms and silky, wallpapered rooms spill onto terraces doused in golden sunlight at Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo . If you're trip is inspired by The White Lotus , you can book into the exact hotel – San Domenico Palace on the north-east coast – or the palazzo – Villa Tasca in Palermo – featured in the hit show. For more, see our edit of the best hotels in Sicily .

Village of Peratallada in Costa Brava Spain

3. Catalonia, Spain

Temperature in May: 20°C high; 12°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 2 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

There’s more to Catalonia than Barcelona – though May is an excellent time to explore the provincial capital, with hot days, clear skies and fewer folks ahead of the summer squeeze. Further north, Girona ’s old quarter is medieval enough to have starred in Game of Thrones . Plus, it’s the site of the nation’s greatest dining experience: El Celler De Can Roca hasn’t been hailed the world’s best restaurant twice by chance. Then head down to the Costa Brava, not the resort-y part, but the section where stone-cut towns such as Peratallada and Pals pack honey-hued charm, and beach-side Begur’s Cuban-style mansions house gorgeous, independent hotels. From here, it’s a short, winding drive to Aiguablava, this Costa’s most perfect patch of sand, in a Caribbean-blue bay. In May, you might just find a vacancy, before it feels like the most coveted sunbathing spot in Spain .

Sustainable travel tip: You can travel from London to Barcelona and Girona by train within a day. Once you’ve arrived in Paris on the Eurostar, board a high-speed TGV Duplex for Barcelona (about 7.5 hours) or Girona (seven hours).

Where to stay: Hotel Nord 1901 places you in prime position for seeing the sights, just a five-minute walk away from the cathedral. Or, if you wish to be amongst it all, Barcelona's hottest hotel The Hoxton Poblenou is a great option for exploring a new part of the city.

Malta

Temperature in May: 24°C high; 15°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 3 hours 10 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

Tucked away between Sicily and Tunisia, Malta has a delicious mix of European and African culture while fiercely retaining its own identity. The tiny archipelago (including Gozo) starts to warm up by May, meaning days can be spent bronzing on sandy beaches in hidden coves, swimming in turquoise lagoons, or exploring ancient ruins and quaint fishing villages. If you're a little short on time, head to Europe's smallest capital city, Valletta , for a long weekend. Maltese food is a delight, with strong Mediterranean influences which produce dishes such as pistachio cannoli or honey-glazed rabbit. There's also wine bars hidden in twisty-turny side streets and a city so antiquated you feel as though you're in a museum. All this and it's right beside the sea.

Sustainable travel tip: A couple of minutes’ walk from Valetta’s Grand Harbour, boutique hotel Locanda La Gelsomina hasn’t just sensitively restored a 500-year-old traditional Maltese building. The family-run hideaway also takes steps to reduce the not-insignificant impact of tourism on this small island, making use of solar-powered heating and rainwater collection.

Where to stay: Domus Zamittello , doubles from about £110, a restored baroque masterpiece by the bombed-out opera house, with painted coffered ceilings. Ursula Street is a favourite balconied address to walk down in Valletta, with several small palazzo hotels; try 66 Saint Paul’s to soak it all in.

Munich Germany

5. Munich, Germany

Temperature in May: 19°C high; 8°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 1 hour 50 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

Can’t wait until autumn to pull on the lederhosen? May in Munich brings Springfest (or Fruhlingfest), Oktoberfest’s little sister. Expect the same risky mix of fairground rides and beer-filled steins, but smaller and less lairy crowds. The city has its own version of hygge: ‘Gemütlichkeit’. Soak it up in one of the many twinkly pub gardens, or under the vaulted ceiling of a beer cellar. Enough hops? The sun is shining on river surfers riding the Eisbach wave in the Englischen Garten – a year-round swell best left to pros. It might just be warm enough for the park’s nude section to fill up, too; this is Germany , after all.

Sustainable travel tip: Travelling from England to Munich by train is easy and fast. After arriving in Paris on the Eurostar, catch a TGV Duplex train direct to Munich, or via Stuttgart. Journey time from Paris is about six hours.

Where to stay: Housed in an early 20th-century building, with manor-house interiors (frescoes and hunting images), Hotel Excelsior exudes rustic elegance. It has 113 rooms decorated in soft pastels. The stately Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski was built in 1858 near the Bavarian State Opera in the Old Town as a symbol of modernity: now, the lobby retains its old-world glamour with wood-panelled walls and an incredible stained-glass ceiling.

Ardtornish

6. The Scottish Highlands

Temperature in May: 13°C high; 7°C low Season: spring Travel time from London: 1 hour 30 minutes Time difference: GMT +0

The Scottish Highlands are insanely beautiful year-round but in May they burst into life. The wildflowers and rhododendrons are brightfully blooming and the midges have not yet arrived to spoil the fun. There's something gloriously untamed and forgotten about The Highlands – wonderfully grand country estates such as Ardtornish are still the norm, with reams of lochs and lakes for fishing or acres of land for tramping. There's an abundance of romantic hidey-holes to forget about the rest of the world; and if you're finding May still a little chilly, a trip to a whisky distillery will soon warm you up. All this, so tantalisingly close to home.

Sustainable travel tip: Spend a night on the Caledonian Sleeper train and wake up in either outdoor adventure resort Aviemore, or the capital city of the Highlands, Inverness.

Where to stay: Glengorm Castle , a Brontë-esque pile of harmonious turrets and towers on the north coast of Mull, five miles from Tobermory, with guest cottages, flats and B&B rooms that are tweedy, toiley perfection. For a private stay, there are some incredible Airbns in this region. We love the look of this smart airship-turned-smart cabin bolthole that overlooks the Sound of Mull.

Brighton England

7. Brighton, United Kingdom

Temperature in May: 14°C high; 10°C low Season: spring Travel time from London: 1 hour by train Time difference: GMT +0

Kinky and quirky. Bohemian and burlesque. Brighton invented Britain’s seaside scene long before Margate started luring London creatives from their concrete cocoons. It’s still our coolest beach town – for proof, come in May. That’s when the Great Escape new music festival hits: what The Times calls Britain’s answer to SXSW, and Steve Lamacq claims is the music world’s Cannes. Expect a studiously obscure line-up you’re definitely not hip enough to have heard of (sample bands: Pyschedelic Porn Crumpets; Tropical F*** Storm). Also on in May is Brighton Fringe. As England’s biggest open-access arts festival, count on it to bring the weird. Plus, the sun should be peeking onto that pebble beach this time of year. Sorry, Kent Riviera: Brighton’s just better.

Sustainable travel tip: Taste Brighton’s independent (and sustainable) spirit with Brighton Food Tours : itineraries focus solely on the city’s indie producers and vendors.

Where to stay: Artist Residence Brighton . A jaunty pink door marks out the terraced property on Regency Square. Inside, the arty rooms have boldly painted walls, while the communal spaces are a bit more muted, with exposed-brick walls and vintage furniture. Or in the city’s quieter, more grown-up neighbourhood just 15 minutes by bus from Brighton’s centre, the Ginger Pig is a favourite for smart locals. For self-catered options, take a look at our list of the best Airbnbs in Brighton.

Dublin

8. Dublin, Ireland

Temperature in May: 15°C high, 6°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 1 hour 25 minutes Time difference: GMT +0

What, not for St Patrick’s Day? But Dublin isn’t all braying pub mobs. In May it makes room for brooding artistes. Its writerly sons Joyce, Yeats and Wilde all wandered these Georgian streets for inspiration, and May’s annual International Literature Festival honours the capital’s high-minded pedigree, with authors flying in from all over the globe to argue and provoke. Then embark on a literary pub crawl, and sip pints where Dublin’s greatest writers did so a century before. In May, there’ll be moderate weather, crowds and prices: a pleasant time to wander the Grand Canal, dine in restaurant/bookshop The Winding Stair, and take in the works of new Irish playwrights at the Abbey Theatre, originally co-founded by Yeats.

Sustainable travel tip: Ferries sail daily from Liverpool and Holyhead to Dublin. Travel from Holyhead and you can buy ‘rail and sail’ tickets with both Irish Ferries and Stena Line, so you needn’t bother with a car at either end.

Where to stay: The Westbury , an enduring spot on the city’s scene and the flagship of the Irish, family-run Doyle Collection. Just off the shopping hub of Grafton Street, guest rooms have been spruced up with a lighter, brighter touch, and there are killer cocktails at the glamorous Sidecar bar. Or go all-out in this luxurious three-bedroom Airbnb hideaway . For more recommendations, see our edit of the best Dublin hotels .

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Tuscany and Florence Italy

9. Tuscany and Florence, Italy

Temperature in May: 23°C high; 12°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 2 hours 10 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

If you weren't already head-over-heels in love with Italy, a trip to Tuscany will inevitably cast you into the deepest of adorations. The birthplace of the Italian language is crammed full of UNESCO world heritage sights, medieval country houses and ancient cities. This region isn't just a living, breathing museum though, it is also famed for its Chianti growing vines, rolling Tuscan hills, the crazily cute Cinque Terre and coastal region The Maremma . Florence , the capital, is great for a bank holiday weekend, warm enough to stroll in a sundress and devour gelato, but before the city becomes stuffy and overrun by organised tourist groups.

Sustainable travel tip: You can reach Florence by train, with a night in Milan for good measure. After arriving in Paris via Eurostar , catch a high-speed TGV train to Italy’s fashion capital (journey time: about seven hours). Next morning, a high-speed Frecciarossa train zips you to Florence in just a couple of hours.

Where to stay: Casa Iris , a thrillingly pretty guesthouse in the middle of the peninsula, is an elegant retreat in a place full of gelato-toting holidaymakers. And there’s no shortage of elegant hotels in Florence, but something about the St. Regis is extra wonderful: here, the royal treatment is for everyone. For more, see our pick of the best hotels in Tuscany .

Norwegian Fjords

10. Norwegian Fjords

Temperature in May: 16°C high; 6°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 2 hours 5 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

Cruising through the fjords is one way to do it – another is a monumental road trip, skimming cliff edges and winding through greening countryside, above blue water sparkling below. In May, wildflowers are flourishing and hiking trails are blissfully quiet; free not only of tourists, but also of summer’s irksome midges. Drive the Discovery Route from Bergen and catch spring’s blossoming apple trees at dramatic Hardangerfjord, then feel your stomach drop at the lip of flat-topped Pulpit Rock. Steady your nerves back in Bergen, where Scandi -red clapboard houses sit aside buzzy cocktail bars; No Stress prides itself on its house-made syrups and juices, and can be relied upon for a good-time throng.

Sustainable travel tip: A couple of regions in the fjords are a certified ‘Sustainable Destination’: a national labelling scheme that rewards areas deemed to be systematically preserving local culture and environment. Lyngenfjord offers outdoor adventures, visits with the Sami people and locally reared and foraged food; Lysefjord, home of Pulpit Rock, has excellent hiking routes and restaurants focused on local produce. Heart set on a cruise? Nærøyfjord can be explored onboard electric ferry Future , or the hybrid vessel Vision

Where to stay: Hotel Brosundet , a former fishing warehouse reimagined by Snøhetta, the progressive architectural outfit that designed the Svalbard Global Seed Vault in the centre of town. This place is so close to the water that some guests have been known to leap into the waves from the windows. Or for stunning views, you'll struggle to find better than this seaside Airbnb.

Dodecanese Islands Greece

11. Dodecanese Islands, Greece

Temperature in May: 23°C high; 17°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 4 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT +2

Think of the Greek Islands and think of whitewashed stone villages illuminated against the blue Aegean, ancient ruins and tiny little fishing villages. The Dodecanese islands, a chain of 12 larger islands ( Rhodes is the best known of them) and lots of little ones, are all these clichés and more. For a real taste of Greek life, the volcanic island of Nisyros is wonderfully welcoming and a haven for artists. Symi, half an hour from the Turkish coast, has Michelin stars and is glamorously old school, Kastellorizo inspired the likes of Pink Floyd and Patmos has incredible Byzantine architecture, or if you can't settle on one, go island hopping on the Calypso.

Sustainable travel tip: Reaching Rhodes without boarding a plane is possible, but you’ll need to be dedicated. Probably the simplest way is to take the Eurostar to Paris, followed by a TGV to Munich (seven hours), and from here the overnight Lisinski sleeper train to Zagreb. Next day, take a train to Belgrade (seven hours), and spend a night and day in the Serbian capital. An overnight train will then take you to Thessaloniki, from where you can enjoy a very scenic journey on an InterCity train to Athens (four hours). Finally, an overnight ferry sails you to Rhodes. Now, here’s the catch: the sleeper to Thessaloniki only operates mid-June to mid-September. See the brilliant Seat61.com for an alternative route that involves a second ferry and more train changes.

Where to stay: Melenos Lindos, for decorative wooden ceilings, Ottoman-inspired hand-painted tiles, raised wooden sleeping platforms with elaborate carved woodwork, and mirror frames inlaid with mother of pearl. At the terrace bar and restaurant (which serves seasonal Greek food), a vine-covered pergola is threaded with tiny lanterns. For pure, Greek Island relaxation we love this Airbnb with a private pool.

Istanbul

12. Istanbul, Turkey

Temperature in May: 22°C high; 13°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 3 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT +3

Before Turkey's blazing summer heat sets in, head to Istanbul for an easy and accessible city break from the UK . The city is a glorious mish-mash of European and Asian culture – buzzing bazaars filled with keen-to-haggle hawkers selling trinkets sit next to contemporary art galleries. Sunrise calls to prayer from glittering mosques intertwine with the sound of electronic music from boat nightclubs floating on the Bosphorus. There are countless palatial hotels to stay in; or consider Soho House 's Istanbul outpost, a little haven in this electrifying city.

Sustainable travel tip: Yes, you absolutely can travel to Istanbul by train, though it’ll take you a good four days. The route, however, is a fascinating one, in parts retracing the journey the Orient Express made back in the 1920s. Arrive in Paris on the Eurostar, then take a TGV Duplex to Munich (6.5 hours), and from here the overnight Lisinski sleeper train to Zagreb. Next day, take a train to Belgrade (seven hours), and spend the night there before travelling onwards to Sofia (11.5 hours, summer service runs direct until mid September). Explore the Bulgarian capital before the final leg, an overnight sojourn aboard the Sofia-Istanbul Express.

Where to stay: Soho House Istanbul . The restoration of this 19th-century palace in the city's coolest district is one of the London hotel group's biggest and most ambitious projects, with 120 light-flooded and serene bedrooms. Or, to escape the crowds, Six Senses Kocatas Mansion s is pure luxury (and the hotel has a boat to take you to Istanbul, should you wish). For more, see our edit of the best hotels in Istanbul .

Cairo Egypt

13. Egypt, Africa

Temperature in May: 34°C high; 24°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 4 hours 40 minutes Time difference: GMT +2

Rebounding Egypt shows new confidence this year with the long-awaited opening of its $1 billion Grand Egyptian Museum (after several delays, it’s slated to welcome visitors by the end of 2020). Just over a mile from the show-stopping Giza Pyramid Complex, the museum promises, among other things, a faithful reconstruction of Tutankhamun’s extravagantly ornamented tomb, featuring more than 5,000 original pieces. Though the country’s troubles have not vanished, the number of returning tourists has crept upwards enough to encourage other luxuries; the new Cairo St Regis is a chic high-rise hotel offering respite from street-level chaos. May might be the best time to see Egypt’s wonders without an accompanying rabble, before summer gets truly sweltering, but off-season enough to bag five-stars for less.

Sustainable travel tip: Cruising down the Nile on your bucket list? Set sail on a traditional wooden felucca , a more sustainable option than the ubiquitous four-storey floating hotels, some of which are known to pollute the river with fuel and sewage.

Where to stay: At one of Egypt’s best beach hotels and red sea diving spots, Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh . Or, this mini house near Cairo is a photographer's dream, available to book on Airbnb.

Memphis Tennessee

14. Memphis, USA

Temperature in May: 27°C high; 17°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 12 hours Time difference: GMT -6

The Memphis in May Festival – a month of celebrations centred around the beloved preoccupations of blues and barbecue – brings an already party-loving city even more to life. Lately, this storied part of the American South has been gifted with a little extra sparkle, too: an expanded Graceland features an entire museum dedicated solely to Elvis’s cars; the new Mighty Lights of Hernando de Soto Bridge shine a nightly show over the Mississippi’s swell. Beale Street remains an essential destination: a neon strip of legendary blues clubs. And don’t leave without a taste of those famed baby-back ribs. With around 115 barbecue restaurants inside the city, there’s really no excuse.

Sustainable travel tip: Memphis may not exactly be pedestrian-friendly, but, thanks to the recent development of more than 300 miles of bike lanes, there’s now a quick and clean way to navigate both downtown and the city’s wider sprawl. Explore Bike Share supplies the Memphis version of Boris bikes, accessed via an app.

Where to stay : In the downtown district of Memphis lies The Peabody , a grand hotel a favourite of locals and travellers.

Pig Island in Bahamas

15. Bahamas, Caribbean

Temperature in May: 29°C high; 22°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 12 hours Time difference: GMT -5

Behold the Bahamian sweet spot: May. The winter hordes long gone, and spring-breakers freshly departed. Hurricane season doesn’t set in until June . Beaches relieved of rowdy crowds settle sedately in the sun. There’s nothing to do but stake out your patch on pristine Cabbage Beach (even quieter at the north end), take your pick of poolside lounge chairs, and pluck the fruits of Gladstone Road Farmers Market (open until the end of the month). You might even splash about with a sow at Pig Beach.

Sustainable travel tip: Andros Island isn’t just an unspoiled slice of backcountry untroubled by cruise ships and high-rise hotels; it’s also home to Tiamo , an impressive eco-lodge with just 13 thatched bungalows fringed by white beach and thick palms. Tiamo runs on solar power, has composting toilets (though you wouldn’t know it to look at them), and employs staff from local communities who are trained as nature guides – take an informed boat tour through mangroves or explore caves and forests inland.

Where to stay: On a private oceanfront estate with Versailles-like gardens at Four Season's The Ocean Club . Guests can dine at top chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten's Dune, indulge in the Balinese-inspired One&Only Spa, or relax by the oceanfront pool. A mix of locality, cerulean sea, and ultra-private intimacy makes Rosewood Baha Mar the easiest place to stop in to for winter sun without becoming a total beach bum.

Chobe National Park in Botswana

16. Botswana, Africa

Temperature in May: 27°C high; 10°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 13 hours Time difference: GMT +2

The Okavango Delta hogs all the press, but Chobe National Park, in Botswana ’s north-east corner, is every bit as captivating, especially in May. It’s the beginning of dry season, but just before high season, so camps aren’t too crowded, the weather is mild (around 25°C) and evaporating surface water drives large herds of animals to the Chobe River. Cruise past crocs and hippos on a boat safari, with a glass of chilled South African wine in hand. The park is also home to one of Africa’s largest concentrations of elephants. andBeyond’s Chobe Under Canvas provides a proper adventure, bringing you as close to nature as you might care to get.

Sustainable travel tip: Most national parks and reserves in Botswana lease the land from local communities, generating royalties that are invested back into the community and into conservation. The country has also created an Eco-Certification System for tourism businesses (more here botswanatourism.co.bw ), so check whether your operator and/or accommodation is meeting those standards. For more inspiration, see our pick of Six incredible safari lodges in Botswana.

Where to stay: Jack’s Camp is an old-world, Moroccan-style glamorous tented safari camp in the middle of Botswana’s arid Kgalagadi. Amongst the many lodges in Botswana are some stunning Airbnbs too - this farm has taken our fancy.

Homes along Carbon Beach

17. California, USA

Temperature in May: 22°C high; 12°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 11 hours Time difference: GMT -8

Come May we're California -dreamin' – of Yosemite National Park, cool and quirky San Francisco and shiny sparkly Los Angeles . If you harbour Jack Kerouac fantasies then take an all-American road trip through the state or along Big Sur. Conversely, the cities and towns of California are diverse and interesting enough individually to brave the long-haul flight for. San Francisco is the state capital of food and outdoor action (if not the actual state capital), while Los Angeles is a strange glittering town of health, wealth and youth, and San Diego is great for surfing. The smaller towns dotted along this sunny coast, such as Malibu and Palm Springs , are also charming enough to keep you occupied.

Sustainable travel tip: Between tech giants and movie studios, California is overwhelmingly agricultural, and its status as the nation’s food basket means the majority of its trendy farm-to-table restaurants are the real deal. San Francisco, in particular, champions regional farms and producers all over its menus: avoid Downtown tourist traps and head for hot restaurants in hip ’hoods such as Cow Hollow and the Mission. Don’t miss the temple to local food at the Ferry Building’s covered market, either.

Where to stay: Little sister to the smarter Palihouse, Palihotel has 32 rooms with a velvety bohemian glamour and Dean & Deluca snacks in the bulging mini-bars. For the full LA experience, there's even the Eggslut food truck outside. Or, For a design hotel, The Hoxton in Downtown LA is a firm favourite.

Vancouver Island

18. Vancouver Island

Temperature in May: 17°C high; 10°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 9 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT -8

In amongst the knotted tangle of Vancouver Island 's evergreen forest, it's easy to forget that this is supposedly the most populated island in North America. Mother Nature is still queen, with bears roaming the interior and excellent whale-watching off the coast. Even if you're not barmy about wildlife, this island is one big playground. Daredevils can throw themselves down whitewater rapids, paraglide from peaks or snorkel and dive the sea. There's a more chilled-out side too; the surfer town of Tofino is quickly becoming the best place for food, while glamping takes on new heights at Clayoquot Wilderness Resort .

Sustainable travel tip: Pay a visit to the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. The park falls within the traditional territories of nine different nations of the Nuu-chah-nulth people, and park authorities work closely with those nations to manage the lands respectfully and represent First Nations culture. It’s one of few examples of tourism in Canada working for indigenous people, and is well worth supporting.

Where to stay: If you venture over to Vancouver Island, book a room at Rosewood Hotel Georgia . There is a fabulous speakeasy bar with a range of dangerous absinthes, a buzzy courtyard café, a stunning pool and a five-star spa. Distinguished, clubby and stylishly Edwardian, it feels like an elegant throwback to the wonderful era of grand hotels.

Cape Verde

19. Cape Verde

Temperature in May: 27°C high; 20°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 7 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT -1

Known as Africa's answer to the Galápagos Islands, richly diverse Cape Verde is good for a guaranteed hit of sunshine located in The Atlantic. The dramatic interior hides volcanic hot springs and arid deserts, while the beaches, with their azure seas and white sands, are more befitting of the Caribbean. With this abundance of natural resources and a dash of African charm and culture, Cape Verde's potential is finally being recognised.

Sustainable travel tip: Most tourists head to Cape Verde for a fly-and-flop holiday, but why not prioritise local culture and landscape with Responsible Travel ’s walking and cultural trip instead? The itinerary includes stays at family-run guesthouses and plumps for hiking routes that don’t trample over ecologically delicate areas.

Where to stay: Odjo d'Aqua Hotel , a small, locally owned hotel with a garden, a pool, anachronistically decorated rooms (antiques and curios, fishing equipment and so on) and an open-air restaurant-bar jutting out into the sea, where you can eat as the Atlantic rollers crash past.

Lake District England

20. Lake District, England

Temperature in May: 13°C high; 4°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 5 hours drive from London Time difference: GMT

Cumbria might not be basking in glorious early-summer sunshine come May, but spring is still one of the loveliest times to finally pay a visit to the Lake District National Park . Ironically, in these parts, lakes are actually diversely known as ‘meres,’ ‘tarns’ and ‘waters’. Whatever you call these vast bodies of water, a May trip promises joyful signs of the changing seasons, from carpets of bluebells to spotting Herdwick lambs to rich cherry blossoms – all without the crowds that flock here once summer-proper arrives.

Sustainable travel tip: Where possible, leave a car behind and sightsee on public transport, by bike or on foot.

Where to stay: Set on a hillside a short drive from Lake Windermere, Gilpin Hotel sprawls across 21 acres of verdant grounds. Or check into low-key country-house Another Place in Ullswater for uninterrupted views of the lake and brilliant on-site restaurants.

World’s 30 Best Travel Destinations, Ranked

Best places to visit in the world.

Bali, one of the best travel destinations

The ultimate ranking of travel destinations aims to solve a serious problem: so many places to visit, so little time.

But even in a world with a trillion destinations, some manage to stand out and rise to the top. From the sleek skyscrapers of Dubai to the emerald-green waters of the Bora Bora lagoon, you’re sure to find at least one vacation that piques your interest (and likely several!).

These are the 30 best places to visit in the world. Which ones have you already been to? And which ones stoke your wanderlust most?

30. Argentine Patagonia

Traveler in Argentine Patagonia

In this region of the Andes, you’ll find glaciers, evergreen trees, deep blue lakes and clear skies everywhere you look. For a trip full of adventure and discovery, there are few better destinations on the planet.

No trip is complete without a visit to the craggy Mount Fitz Roy, the historic (and mysterious) Cave of the Hands, the Punta Tombo wildlife preserve, the Peninsula Valdes marine wildlife refuge and the impressive Perito Moreno Glacier. Be sure to bring your camera and your sense of wonder.

* Rankings are based on U.S. News & World Report's " World's Best Places to Visit ," traveler ratings as well as our own editorial input.

What to Know Before You Go to Argentine Patagonia

Argentine Patagonia Glacier National Park

Where to stay: Cyan Soho Neuquen Hotel

Hot tip: Since springtime occurs in the southern hemisphere in October and November, those months are your best bet when planning a trip.

Fun fact: The largest dinosaur fossils ever unearthed were found in Argentine Patagonia. They belong to the largest-known titanosaur, believed to have weighed about 83 tons. 

Note: We may earn money from affiliate partners if you buy through links on our site.

29. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Campania, Amalfi Coast

Set in the Sorrentina Peninsula, the Amalfi Coast has long been renowned for its natural beauty and idyllic coastal towns. During the golden age of Hollywood, it was a preferred vacation spot for glamorous movie stars.

Days here are spent eating Italian food, drinking wine and walking around colorful cobblestone streets. You can also expect to drink copious amounts of wine as you look out into the Mediterranean Sea.

The best way to see the coast is to rent a car and then drive to different towns each day.

What to Know Before You Go to the Amalfi Coast

Amalfi Coast road

Where to stay: Hotel Marina Riviera

Hot tip:  If you're planning on using a beach chair to work on your tan, make sure you wake up early, as they are usually first come, first served.

Fun fact:  The Amalfi Coast is featured in Sofia Loren's 1995 Film, "Scandal in Sorrento."

28. Cancun, Mexico

Beach sunset in Cancun

For years, Cancun has been the preferred getaway for East Coast Americans (particularly Floridians) who want an international getaway that's still close to home. But despite the droves of tourists, the area has managed to keep the charm that attracted people in the first place.

The city is known mostly for its luxury hotels, wild nightlife and warm beaches. Definitely indulge in all of these — as well as the Mexican food! — but also consider other activities like visiting Mayan ruins, swimming in cenotes and snorkeling. One thing is certain: You won't run out of things to do in Cancun .

What to Know Before You Go to Cancun

Cenote Zaci, Mexico

Where to stay: Hyatt Zilara Cancun

Hot tip:  While you're in Cancun, make a plan to visit one of Grupo Xcaret's six eco-tourism parks, with the best ones being Xcaret and Xelha. The Mexican-owned company is credited with starting the eco-tourism trend in the Yucatan Peninsula, and the parks offer incredible and varied local experiences.

Fun fact:  The Yucatan Peninsula, where Cancun is located, was the cultural, political and economic center of the Mayan civilization. Many locals have Mayan ancestry and Mayan continues to be widely spoken in the area.

27. San Francisco, California

Close up of Golden Gate Bridge

Everyone should visit San Francisco at least once in their lives. Though tech companies grab all the headlines these days, it remains down-to-earth, diverse and packed with things to do.

Where to start? No matter your style, you’ll want to check out the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge, see the sunbathing sea lions at Fisherman’s Wharf, take a tour of the historic prison Alcatraz and relax in one of the city’s many parks, especially Dolores Park for its epic people-watching on the weekends. 

For dinner, treat your tastebuds and make a reservation at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants in the Bay Area .

What to Know Before You Go to San Francisco

San Francisco houses

Where to stay: The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square

Hot tip: Want similarly beautiful landscapes and rich cultural attractions, but at lower prices and with (slightly) fewer crowds? Head to Oakland just across the Bay Bridge, named one of the most exciting places on earth to travel by National Geographic. 

Fun fact: The fortune cookie was invented in San Francisco by a Japanese resident. Random!

26. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls in autumn Canadian side

Niagara Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the world . The power with which water storms down cliffs on the border between the United States and Canada has captivated the imagination of humans for centuries. 

This natural wonder is comprised of three awe-inspiring falls. One of the best ways to experience them is on a boat tour.

What to Know Before You Go to Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls boat tour

Where to stay: Sheraton Niagara Falls

Hot tip: There is some debate about which side of the falls is better, but the general verdict is that the Canadian side offers better views. This is because you can (ironically) get a better view of the American Falls as well as get up close to Horseshoe Falls. 

Fun fact:  Established in 1885, Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in the U.S.

25. Yellowstone National Park

Bison at the Great Prismatic Spring

Located mostly in Wyoming as well as Montana and Idaho, Yellowstone is America’s first national park and remains one of the most popular in the country, welcoming more than around 3.3 million people in 2022. With unpredictable geysers, rainbow-colored hot springs, craggy peaks, shimmering lakes and tons of wildlife — from elk to boars to bison — it’s easy to see why so many people flock here. 

The park makes for an awesome family trip and is well-suited to budget travelers since it offers so many campsites ( over 2,000! ). 

What to Know Before You Go to Yellowstone

Old Faithful Geiser erupting, Yellowstone

Where to stay: Stage Coach Inn

Hot tip: You’ll never fully beat the crowds at this wildly popular park, but April, May, September and November are your best bets for finding some solitude.  

Fun fact: Yellowstone is larger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined.  

24. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

snorkle Destinations: Great Barrier Reef, Australia

As the largest reef in the world, the Great Barrier Reef is home to thousands of marine species. This makes it a paradise for scuba diving or snorkeling. 

The reef system is truly gigantic, with over 600 islands and about 2,900 individual reefs. This is one of Australia's greatest prides, but it's also a planetary national treasure. Seeing it with your own two eyes is an experience that is incredible beyond words.

What to Know Before You Go to the Great Barrier Reef

Great Barrier Reef from above

Where to stay: Crystalbrook Flynn

Hot tip: Though going underwater to see the reef is a must, we also recommend booking a helicopter tour to experience the magic of it from above.

Fun fact:  Made of corals, which are animals that live in collectives, the Great Barrier Reef is the largest living structure on the planet.

23. Santorini, Greece

White washed houses in Santorini

With its picturesque blue-domed churches, whitewashed buildings and colorful beaches, the island of Santorini is a photographer’s paradise. If you want to snap photos to post to Instagram and make everyone back home jealous, this is the place to go. 

Also make sure to experience some of Santorini’s archaeologically significant sites, like Ancient Akrotiri (an ancient city preserved by volcanic ash) and Ancient Thera (where humans lived as early as the 9th century BC). And don’t forget to visit the smaller islands that surround it, including Thirassia, Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni. 

What to Know Before You Go to Santorini

Santorini houses

Where to stay: Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Santorini

Hot tip: To optimize your vacation, visit in September and October or April and May — when the weather is still warm, but there aren’t as many other tourists milling around.

Fun fact: While it’s difficult to prove, locals like to say there’s more wine than water on this island where it hardly rains (and vino abounds).

22. Florence, Italy

Florience center, Italy

For art and history buffs (and anyone who appreciates delicious Italian food), Florence is a must-visit city. 

As the birthplace of the Renaissance, it’s home to some of the most iconic artworks by the world’s premier artists throughout history — Michaelangelo, Brunelleschi and Donatello, just to name a few. In addition to art museums and architectural wonders, Florence is also home to chic shops, quaint cafes and spectacular gardens. 

What to Know Before You Go to Florence

Il Duomo, Florence

Where to stay:  NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa

Hot tip: Keep Florence in mind if you want to spend your honeymoon in Europe without spending a fortune, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Fun fact: The city’s famed “El Duomo” cathedral took over 140 years to build .

21. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite Falls

Yosemite, one of the most-visited national parks in America with more than 4 million annual guests, encompasses 750,000 acres of wilderness just waiting to be explored.

It’s home to scenic waterfalls, like the 317-foot Vernal Fall and the 617-foot Bridalveil Fall, as well as iconic rock formations like El Capitan and Half Dome, two popular spots for the world’s best rock climbers to test their mettle.

Not surprisingly, the wildlife here also impresses. Dozens of species of butterflies, marmots, bobcats and mule deer are just some of the animals that call Yosemite home. And keep your eyes peeled for black bears; some 300 to 500 roam the park . 

What to Know Before You Go to Yosemite

Yosemite National Park

Where to stay:  The Ahwahnee

Hot tip: Summer can get really busy here, so if you want to camp, be sure to book a spot early. Want to beat Yosemite’s notoriously bad traffic? Ditch the car and take advantage of the park’s extensive free bus system.

Fun fact: This is one of the only places in the country where you can catch a moonbow — like a rainbow, but created by the light of the moon instead of the sun. 

20. St. Lucia

St. Lucia Les Pitons

Whether you’re visiting on a cruise ship or just relaxing at an all-inclusive resort or boutique hotel, stunning St. Lucia is a clear winner. This Caribbean island offers diverse terrain for vacationers, from its pristine beaches to its lush rainforests to its volcanic peaks, the Pitons, that loom over the landscape. 

Adrenaline-junkies love hiking, climbing and zip-lining, while newlyweds (and soon-to-be-married couples) enjoy the romantic mix of fine dining, adults-only resorts and exotic activities. 

What to Know Before You Go to St. Lucia

St. Lucia boats

Where to stay: Rabot Hotel From Hotel Chocolat

Hot tip: Visit when temperatures are moderate, which is typically in May and June.

Fun fact: St. Lucia is the only country named after a woman: Christian martyr Saint Lucia of Syracuse.

19. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai skyscrappers

Everything is bigger and better in Dubai, home to one of the world’s largest shopping malls, tallest towers, largest man-made marinas — and the list goes on. 

This Las Vegas-like urban center in the United Arab Emirates has an eclectic mix of activities for visitors to enjoy, including beaches, waterparks, tons of shopping and even an indoor ski resort. Outside the skyscraper-filled city, the vast desert awaits, best enjoyed via quad-biking or sandboarding.

What to Know Before You Go to Dubai

Dubai beach

Where to stay:  Five Palm Jumeirah Dubai

Hot tip: Though you’re likely to pay a pretty penny for a trip to Dubai no matter when you visit, you can save a little cash by visiting during the scalding-hot summer months and by booking your hotel room two to three months in advance.

Fun fact: Dubai’s man-made Palm Islands were constructed using enough imported sand to fill up 2.5 Empire State Buildings . 

18. Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu, Peru

Many travelers describe their visit to Machu Picchu as life-changing. Why? It’s an archaeological wonder, the remains of an ancient Incan city dating back more than 600 years. No wonder this is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most-visited attraction in all of Peru. 

Be sure to visit significant sites like Funerary Rock, where it’s believed Incan nobility were mummified, and Temple of the Condor, a rock temple sculpted to look like the impressive bird in its name.  

What to Know Before You Go to Machu Picchu

Llamas in Machu Picchu

Where to stay: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Hot tip: If you’re planning a trip, be sure to get your ticket in advance, as only 2,500 people can visit Machu Picchu each day. (And a lot of people have this destination on their bucket list.)

Fun fact: The site contains more than 100 separate flights of stairs . 

17. Sydney, Australia

Sydney Harbor with boats

With its iconic Opera House and lively Bondi Beach, Sydney is the perfect spot to vacation if you’re looking for a blend of culture, arts, nightlife and relaxation. 

Spend the day on the water at Darling Harbour, then head to the Royal Botanic garden for even more fresh air. Want to travel like a local? Get a ticket to a rugby match and order a Tim Tam, a popular chocolate-covered cookie that pairs well with coffee. 

What to Know Before You Go to Sydney

Sydney Opera House in the evening

Where to stay: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

Hot tip: You can make your trip more affordable by visiting during Sydney’s shoulder seasons, which are typically September through November and March through May.

Fun fact: In 2007, Bondi Beach was the site of the largest ever swimsuit photoshoot ; 1,010 bikini-clad women participated, enough to earn it a spot in the Guinness World Records book.

16. Grand Canyon, Arizona

Grand Canyon from observation point

The Grand Canyon is truly massive (277 river miles long and up to 18 miles wide!), which helps explain why so many people feel the urge to see it in person. 

In 2022, 4.7 million people visited, making the Grand Canyon the second-most popular national park in the country (behind Great Smoky Mountain Nationals Park). Established in 1919, the park offers activities for all ability levels, whether you want to do an intense hike down into the canyon and sleep under the stars (with a backcountry permit, of course) or simply want to saunter along the South Rim Trail, an easy walking path with views that wow.

What to Know Before You Go to the Grand Canyon

Family in the Grand Canyon

Where to stay:  The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

Hot tip: If you’ve wanted to visit the Grand Canyon for a while now, this is the year to do it. The park is celebrating its 100th birthday with musical performances, lectures, screenings and other special events.

Fun fact: The most remote community in the continental U.S. can be found in the Grand Canyon. At the base of the canyon, Supai Village — part of the Havasupi Indian Reservation — has a population of 208. It’s inaccessible by road, and mail is delivered by pack mule. Want to see it for yourself? The village houses a collection of campsites , accessible via a hiking trail.

15. Bali, Indonesia

Landmark Temple Gates in Bali

In recent years, Bali has become a popular expat destination, where groups of "digital nomads" work and play. 

But the island hasn't lost its original charm to this added tourism and continues to be an incredible destination. Divide your time between swimming in the beach, hiking active volcanoes, visiting temples and enjoying views of tiered rice terraces.

What to Know Before You Go to Bali

Pura Ulun Danu Bratan temple in Bali

Where to stay: Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach

Hot tip:  Though shoulder season (January to April and October to November) means fewer crowds and cheaper prices, it also means rain. Tons of it. We'd recommend avoiding the rainy season if possible.

Fun fact: On the Saka New Year, Balinese people celebrate Nyepi. This Hindu celebration is a day of silence when everything on the island shuts down and no noise is allowed.

14. New York, New York

New York City Manhattan

As the saying goes, New York City is “the city that never sleeps” — and you won’t want to either when you visit, lest you run out of time to take it all in. 

Be sure to check out newer attractions, like the High Line (an elevated park) and Hudson Yards (a mega-mall along the Hudson River), but also make time for some New York City classics, like catching a Broadway show or standing under the lights of Times Square. 

Foodies will have a hard time choosing where to eat (the city is home to almost 100 Michelin stars !), which is why an extended trip is always a good idea.

What to Know Before You Go to New York City

New York City Broadway

Where to stay: The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel

Hot tip: Yes, January and February get cold here, but this is also the best time to lock in relatively reasonable hotel rates. You can spend your time eating in the city’s restaurants, exploring its fabulous museums and catching its world-class theater shows without needing to spend much time in the chilly outdoors. 

Fun fact: There’s a birth in New York City about every 4.4 minutes — and a death every 9.1 minutes. 

13. Banff National Park, Canada

Banff Lake Louise

Some of the world’s most stunning mountain scenery and vistas are located in Banff, the tiny Canadian town located at 4,537 feet above sea level inside the national park by the same name. Banff is the highest town in Canada, and Banff National Park was Canada’s first, established in 1885.

Shred some powder at Banff’s three ski resorts in the winter, then come back in the summer for activities like hiking, biking, fishing and scrambling (scaling steep terrain using nothing but your hands).

What to Know Before You Go to Banff

Kayaking in Banff National Park

Where to stay: Fairmont Banff Springs

Hot tip: June to August and December to March are the best times to visit if you want to take advantage of summer and winter activities. 

Fun fact: Banff National Park has more than 1,000 glaciers.

12. Maldives

Sunset in the Maldives

You can look at picture after picture, but you still really need to visit the Maldives to believe its beauty. If rich sunsets, flour-like beaches and vibrant blue waters are your style, this is the destination for you. 

Though it’s somewhat difficult to get to this small island nation southwest of Sri Lanka, that also means it’s incredibly private and secluded, which makes it the perfect spot for a honeymoon or romantic beach getaway. 

And don’t worry about getting bored, either — explore the water by snorkeling or scuba diving, relax in the spa or wander around the bustling Male’ Fish Market.

What to Know Before You Go to Maldives

Maldives overwater bungalows

Where to stay: Velassaru Maldives

Hot tip: May to October is the island-nation’s rainy season — but that also means it’s the best time to go for fewer crowds and better rates.

Fun fact: In 1153 AD, the nation’s people converted to Islam. Today, the Maldives remains the most heavily Muslim country on earth.

11. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona, Sagrada Familia

Soccer, architecture, shopping, nightlife, world-class food and wine, arts and culture — is there anything Barcelona doesn’t have? If there is, we honestly can't think what it would be. 

This cosmopolitan Spanish city is home to some awe-inspiring architecture, including several buildings designed by Antoni Gaudi, so be sure to book tours of his whimsical creations like Park Guell and the yet-to-be-finished Church of the Sacred Family (La Sagrada Familia). 

For nightlife and shopping, Las Ramblas is always bustling; for an enriching arts experience, follow the progression of famed artist Pablo Picasso at Museo Picasso.

What to Know Before You Go to Barcelona

Barcelona Park Guell

Where to stay:  Hotel Bagues

Hot tip: It can get really humid here, so it's best to plan your trip in May and June before things really heat up.

Fun fact: In preparation for its 1992 hosting of the Olympics, the city flew in sand from as far away as Egypt to make Barceloneta Beach a place where people would want to go. Though largely man-made, the beach remains a wonderful spot for seaside R&R. 

10. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park in the winter

The crown jewel of beautiful Montana, Glacier National Park is every outdoors traveler's dream.

Of course, the most defining natural feature of the park are its glaciers, which provide spectacular views as well as a number of pristine lakes. There are hundreds of trails that will take you up peaks, down through valleys and across some of the most beautiful landscapes you'll ever see.

What to Know Before You Go to Glacier National Park

Mountain goats at Glacier National Park

Where to stay: Firebrand Hotel

Hot tip:  Plan to spend a day or two in the nearby town of Whitefish. This gateway to Glacier National Park is one of the best small towns in America and a destination in its own right. 

Fun fact: During your visit, you're very likely to run into mountain goats, which are the official symbols of the park.

9. Tokyo, Japan

Akihabara Tokyo

The Japanese capital is one of the most exciting cities on the entire planet. It is notoriously fast-paced, with neon lights illuminating the multitudes that are constantly rushing to their next destination. 

But Tokyo is also a city of temples, of taking time to picnic under the cherry blossoms and of making sure you enjoy the abundance of delicious food that can be found on basically every corner.

What to Know Before You Go to Tokyo

Sensoji temple , Tokyo

Where to stay: The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Hot tip: Visit between the months of March and April or September and November for more comfortable temperatures. Of course, spring is when the city's cherry blossoms are famously in full bloom.

Fun fact: Tokyo happens to be the largest metropolitan area in the world, with more than 40 million people calling the greater metro area home.

8. Phuket, Thailand

Phuket boats

If you’re looking for a vacation destination that feels luxurious but won’t break the bank, start searching for flights to Phuket now. 

This island in southern Thailand, which is just an hour flight from Bangkok, is surrounded by the Andaman Sea, so white sandy beaches abound. If a stunning sunset is what you’re after, head to Promthep Cape, the southernmost point on the island and a popular spot for photo-ops. For views of the island and beyond, climb to the top of the massive alabaster statue called Big Buddha.

You can even learn something during your vacation by visiting the Soi Dog Foundation, an innovative animal shelter that’s fighting the meat trade and taking care of the thousands of stray cats and dogs in the area.

What to Know Before You Go to Phuket

Phuket temple

Where to stay: InterContinental Phuket Resort

Hot tip: Visit between November and April for the best weather — and ideal conditions for beach activities like swimming and boating. 

Fun fact: The island is not pronounced in the rather colorful way it appears to be. The correct way to say it is “poo-ket” or “poo-get.”

7. Rome, Italy

Rome, Colosseum

Though Rome’s historic significance cannot be overstated, don’t assume that this Italian city is stuck in the past. On the contrary, you’ll find posh storefronts and luxurious hotels not far from iconic structures like the Pantheon (built in 120 AD) and the Colosseum (built in 80 AD).

And then, of course, there’s the city’s art. Stroll through Rome, and you’ll stumble upon some of the greatest treasures the world has ever seen — an astonishing collection of frescoes, paintings, ceilings and fountains created by icons like Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Raphael and Bernini.

After all that exploration, take advantage of ample opportunities to eat and drink, including at several Michelin-starred restaurants. City staples include suppli (deep-fried balls of risotto, mozzarella and ragu meat sauce) and cacio e pepe (a deceptively simple mix of al-dente pasta, pecorino romano and fresh black pepper). 

What to Know Before You Go to Rome

Rome Spanish Plaza at dawn

Where to stay: Radisson Blu Ghr Hotel

Hot tip: Tourists congregate here in the summer when temperatures are also sweltering. Go instead between October and April, when there are thinner crowds, better rates and cooler temps. Just make sure to bring a light jacket.

Fun fact: Each year, travelers throw about $1.7 million worth of coins into the Trevi Fountain. The money is donated to Caritas, a Catholic nonprofit that supports charities focused on health, disaster relief, poverty and migration.

6. London, England

Modern bridge London

English writer Samual Johnson once said, “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life.” 

From live performances of Shakespeare to truly world-class (and free!) museums like the National Gallery, London will enrich your mind and enliven your senses. Of course, no visit would be complete without a stop at Buckingham Palace to see the famous stone-faced guards outside and the 19 lavish State Rooms inside (though, unfortunately, you can’t see the queen’s private quarters). Another must-see landmark is the Tower of London, the historic castle on the north side of the River Thames.

What to Know Before You Go to London

London in the spring

Where to stay: Vintry & Mercer

Hot tip: Many U.S. cities now offer direct flights to London, so set a price alert and act fast when you see fares drop.

Fun fact: London’s pubs are worth a visit for their names alone; fanciful monikers include The Case is Altered, The Pyrotechnists Arms, John the Unicorn and The Job Centre. 

5. Tahiti, French Polynesia

Tahiti, French Polynesia

Flavorful French cuisine, top-notch resorts, warm waters — need we say more? Though Tahiti can be pricey, travelers say it’s so worth it. 

The largest of the 118 French Polynesian islands, Tahiti is split into two main regions (connected by a land bridge). Tahiti Nui, the larger region, is home to the island’s capital Papeete and surfing hotspot Papenoo Beach, while Tahiti Iti, the smaller region, offers more seclusion and the bright white sands of La Plage de Maui.

What to Know Before You Go to Tahiti

Tahiti bungalows during sunset

Where to stay: Hilton Hotel Tahiti

Hot tip: Visit between May and October, Tahiti’s winter, when there are less humidity and rain. 

Fun fact: Overcrowding is not a concern here; Hawaii gets more visitors in 10 days than all of French Polynesia does in a year.

4. Maui, Hawaii

Rocky beach in Maui

If you’re short on time or you just can’t decide which Hawaiian island to visit, Maui is right in the sweet spot: not too big, not too small, but just right.

There are five regions to explore on Maui, including the popular West Maui and South Maui, home to some of the island’s best-known attractions and beaches (Wailea Beach is in South Maui, for example). But don’t overlook East Maui, where you can travel along the Road to Hana, or the Upcountry, where you can explore the world’s largest dormant volcano, Haleakala. 

What to Know Before You Go to Maui

Maui cave

Where to stay:  Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Hot tip: This is Hawaii we’re talking about, so your trip will be on the pricey side. Be sure to budget for add-ons if you need them (think gym access and WiFi at your hotel), and do some research on insurance before you head to the car-rental counter.

Fun fact: How’s this for a selling point? Maui has more beach than any other Hawaiian island — 60 miles of it, with red, white and black sand.

3. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora overwater bungalows

Don’t write off the French Polynesian island of Bora Bora just because of its size. Though it’s a little more than 2 miles wide and just 6 miles long, Bora Bora packs in an abundance of natural beauty. To start, you won’t be able to take your eyes off the island’s turquoise lagoon surrounded by lush jungle.

If you’re looking for more than relaxation on your trip, consider hiking or booking a 4X4 tour of Mount Otemanu, part of an extinct volcano that rises 2,400 feet above the lagoon. You can also snorkel among the coral reef of Coral Gardens, where you might catch a glimpse of reef sharks, eels and stingrays.

Because of its remoteness, flying into Bora Bora Airport will be quite a journey, no matter where you're departing from. But you'll forget everything as soon as you see this Polynesian paradise that is beautiful beyond words.

What to Know Before You Go to Bora Bora

Bora Bora Island

Where to stay: Conrad Bora Bora Nui

Hot tip: Though Bora Bora can be wildly expensive to visit, you can cut costs by visiting between December and March (though you should avoid the Christmas holiday) and by bringing your own alcohol and sunscreen with you.

Fun fact: Bora Bora is one of the countries that no longer exists . The Kingdom of Bora Bora was an independent state until it was forcefully overtaken and annexed by France in 1888.

2. Paris, France

Paris from the Arc de Triumph

Paris has it all — incredible cuisine, legendary landmarks and centuries of history. Those are just some of the reasons it’s the second-best place to visit in the world.

Though you’ll want to spend your time hitting up popular tourist spots like the Eiffel Tower and the Musee d’Orsay, you should also carve out time to explore other parts of Paris — the city’s 20 diverse neighborhoods, called arrondissements, for instance. Standouts include the 2nd arrondissement, which touts covered passages and some of the city’s hippest restaurants, and the romantic 18th arrondissement, with charming squares, cafes and bars, set apart from the city’s more tourist-packed areas.

What to Know Before You Go to Paris

Paris Montmartre at dawn

Where to stay: Grand Hotel Du Palais Royal

Hot tip: Yes, summer in Paris is busy, but the weather is also ideal — average highs are in the 70s.

Fun fact: Built for the 1889 World Fair, the Eiffel Tower was originally meant to be temporary , and was almost torn down in 1909. Luckily, local officials saw its value as a radiotelegraph station, preserving the future tourist icon for generations to come. 

1. South Island, New Zealand

Milford Sound

South Island, the larger but less populated of the two islands that make up New Zealand, earn this top-spot honor for its gorgeous scenery, adrenelin-pumping experiences and affordability.

The 33.5-mile hike on Milford Sound, which is limited to 90 people at a time, is considered one of the world’s best treks, with stops at Lake Te Anau, suspension bridges, a mountain pass and the tallest waterfall in the country, Sutherland Falls.

For a heart-pumping experience, you can jump out of a helicopter while flying over the Harris Mountains with skis on your feet. Still not satisfied? Roam Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage area, and explore the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, two of the most accessible glaciers in the world.

What to Know Before You Go to New Zealand

South Island, New Zealand

Where to stay: QT Queenstown

Hot tip: Book your trip for the fall, when South Island is temperate, not overcrowded and offers great rates. Bonus: This is also when the island is at its most stunning.

Fun fact: New Zealand natives, called Kiwis, are among the most hospitable you’ll ever meet. The local saying “He aha te mea nui o te ao. He tangata, he tangata, he tangata” translates , appropriately, to “What is the most important thing in the world? It is people, it is people.”

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Marble canyon Ruskeala, Karelia.

10 of the best Russia holiday destinations – beyond Moscow and St Petersburg

Majestic lakes, mountains, history and even ecotourism resorts, opt for Russia’s lesser-known cities and nature parks and there’s enough to keep you exploring for weeks. Share your Russia tips in the comments below

Ruskeala, Karelia

Why go? Karelia, a republic in north-west Russia, is known as one the country’s most beautiful places. The nature here is breathtaking and more Finnish than Russian, with lakes, waterfalls and trees growing on giant rocks. Ruskeala is a village close to Sortavala, one of the region’s bigger towns. The main interest here is Ruskeala mountain park, with a marble canyon that is now a lake with crystal clear water, and another underground lake. You can rent boats, go diving, or hike. In summer there are light shows on the lake.

Where to stay? Since Ruskeala is tiny most tourists stay in Sortavala. Hostel Lämpö is a popular choice. Don’t be put off by the shabby pre-Soviet building: it is renovated inside and the location is excellent. If you’re staying for a while, there are several resorts, such as Hotel Piipun Piha , near the lake, slightly further from the town centre, which offer sauna and barbecue facilities, too. Doubles from £34, dorms from £6

How to get there? Take the train from Ladozhsky railway station in St Petersburg to Sortavala; depending on the train the journey will take about 4-5 hours. From there several buses can take you to Ruskeala, or you can book a taxi – the drive will take about 20 minutes.

Stolby nature reserve

Stolby nature reserve

Why go? On the north-western spurs of the eastern Sayan mountains, the Stolby nature reserve is one of the most popular tourism destinations in Siberia. The reserve’s main attraction are its rocks and cliffs, called stolby, “pillars” in Russian, after their shape. The smallest cliffs are 55 meters high, while the highest go up to 600 metres. Rock-climbing and hiking are popular activities, although for those interested in the local flora and fauna the reserve also offers guided tours of the Siberian fir taiga that sprawls underneath the rocks: a mix of a hike and a botanical and zoological tour.

Where to stay? In the wooden cabins on the reserve’s grounds, surrounded by the taiga and the rocks. There are separate small cottages for six and eight people, and a hostel. The cabins area is called ‘the village’ and is a bit of a hike from the reserve’s main reception buildings but there is a car service for when you first arrive with your luggage. Dorms from £5 a night, six-person cottages from £47, zapovednik-stolby.ru

How to get there? Fly to Krasnoyarsk from Moscow or St Petersburg (about five hours) and get to Stolby on a bus or taxi; that journey will take around 1 1/2 hours.

Velikiy Novgorod

Saint Sophia Cathedral in Velikiy Novgorod

Why go? Velikiy Novgorod, also known as Novgorod the Great, is one of the most important cities in the country, often called the “birthplace of Russia”. For a long time the city was a sovereign principality, founded by merchants and ruled in relative democracy, and the unification of Novgorod with Moscow in the 15th century was an essential step towards a unified Russia. The city is an historic one and the traditional wooden architecture museum of Vitoslavlitsi is a must-visit; the open-air exhibition of Russian izbas (farmhouses) has an ancient tradition of building without nails or metal to hold the wooden planks together. The Kremlin fortress in Novgorod is also one of the oldest in Russia, dating back to the 11th century.

Where to stay? The Beresta Hostel with its traditional old-Russian interiors, or the Kozhevniki B&B , and its post-Soviet styles, are both good choices. Doubles from £26, dorms from £3

How to get there? Fly to St Petersburg and take a fast Lastochka train (about 3 hours) from Moskovskiy railway station.

Pertopavlovsk-Kamchatsky

Pertopavlovsk-Kamchatsk​i​y

Why go? Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky is on the Kamchatka peninsula in the far east of Russia and is the most eastern town (with more than 100,000 people) in the northern hemisphere. Ecotourism in this region is a new trend, with various activities on offer from mountain and volcano hikes, sailing and kayaking to fishing and hunting trips. The town is also a foodie destination: Kamchatka crabs and other seafood are known delicacies.

Where to stay? In the Nachalnik Kamchatki (The Boss of Kamchatka) mini-hotel, where all the rooms are nature-themed, with names such as Winter, Forest and Bear. There are very few hostels in the town, Hostel Fiesta being one of the few, so book your rooms in advance. Doubles from £32, dorms from £11

How to get there? The only way to get to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky from the European part of Russia is to fly: a direct eight-hour flight from Moscow (book in advance as fares are high).

View from the Kremlin fortress in Kazan, Russia

Why go? The city of Kazan, in Tatarstan, is over a thousand years old and has always been an eclectic place, balanced between the Russian Orthodox and Muslim cultures with churches and cathedrals neighbouring mosques. One of the city’s landmarks is the Söyembikä Tower in the Kremlin fortress. It’s named after the city’s last queen, Söyembikä, who, according to legend threw herself off the tower, but actually was captured by the Muscovites led by Ivan the Terrible in the 16th century, when the city was conquered. The eclectic food of the region, a mix of Russian and Tatar, is one of the city’s highlights: try the traditional tea with chuk-chuk , a sweet pastry dish.

Where to stay? Stereo Hostel in the city centre has a 1970s sci-fi bachelor pad vibe – and a bar onsite. If you’re looking for a quieter stay, the Stary Gorod Hotel (Old Town Hotel) is an affordable retreat in the city centre, with views of the historic Märcani Mosque. Doubles from £16, dorms from £4

How to get there? Fly from Moscow (90 minutes) or St Petersburg (2 hours), or take an overnight train from Moscow’s Kazanskiy railway station.

Lake Baikal

Olkhon Island and Lake Baikal, Siberia, Russia

Why go? Lake Baikal is the deepest in the world. Many Russians say that seeing the vast “Siberian sea” is a unique experience, and others tell stories of the Baikal monster, echoing tales of the Loch Ness monster. There are several hiking paths and in the summer you can swim in the lake, although the water is cold even in August. The shores are scattered with resorts, hotels and camping grounds, although many of them are of the Soviet times.

Where to stay? The Lagoon Ranch resort is on the western bank of the Baikal, in the area called the Small Sea, and offers several types of accommodation: from the most affordable two-person summer houses to double rooms and separate cabins. There are stables and a horse-riding arena, sports grounds, Russian sauna and Baikal tour guide services available. Two-person summer houses from £20, doubles from £28, cabins from £37

How to get there? Direct flights to Irkutsk are available from Moscow only. Buses and shuttles to the resorts leave from various locations in Irkutsk and take about three hours – ask for details when you book your accommodation.

Yessentuki is famous for its hot springs and mineral water.

Why go? Yessentuki is a name you might see on the shelves of Russian grocery stores around the world: this historical resort town, famous for its mineral and hot springs, gave its name to a brand of a salty mineral water. The town has been a destination for the health-conscious since the 19th century.

Where to stay? The Kras Hotel Resort is near the city centre, has a spa and swimming pool, and some rooms dining and living room areas. A slightly cheaper option is to book a hotel close to the town’s famous baths and springs, for example Hotel Orange . Doubles from £11 in Hotel Orange or from £19 at Kras Hotel Resort

How to get there? Direct flights to Mineralniye Vodi airport are available from Moscow (two hours) and St Petersburg (three hours). Some hotels offer airport pick-up, or take a train into Yessentuki – the journey is about 40 minutes on a shuttle bus and an hour on a train.

Kaliningrad

Fishing Village, one of Kalinigrad’s tourist attractions.

Why go? A tiny piece of Russia in Europe, Kaliningrad used to be called Königsberg, and the architecture in the city’s old town still points towards Europe and not Russia. Traces of Kaliningrad’s German heritage can be seen in the surviving Brandenburg Gate and the Fishing Village, a tourist attraction with recreated medieval-style buildings. The flea markets here are known to be the best in Russia – many collectors from all over the world come here in hope of finding relics from the second world war. The Amber museum is another popular attraction.

Where to stay? The city centre Utro Hostel is housed in a 19th century building, with minimalist design and big windows, and the city’s lowest prices per bunk-bed. Doubles from £8, dorms from £11

How to get there? Flights to Kaliningrad are available from Moscow, St Petersburg, and several European cities (including Berlin, Riga and Copenhagen). Overnight trains to Kaliningrad leave from Berlin and Warsaw. If you plan to travel between other parts of Russia and Kaliningrad, you will need a double-entry visa. There is also a special short-term Kaliningrad visa available on the border. For more information visit the Foreign Affair Ministry website .

Vladivostok

View over Vladivostok and its Golden Bridge.

Why go? Far east is a dream destination for many Russians, and Vladivostok, at the head of the Golden Horn Bay, is the heart of it. The city was founded in the middle of the 19th century. The best place for views is the Eagle’s Nest Hill, the city centre’s highest point. This is also a food destination as seafood is abundant here and because of the proximity to the Russian-Chinese borders it’s almost the only place in Russia where good Chinese food is widely available.

Where to stay? The Teplo Hotel is close to the railway station, for all those Trans-Siberian railway travellers, and has dormitories and private rooms. Slightly more expensive is A Hotel Amur Bay , which is in a white 1980s-designed building. Although a chain hotel (of the Azimut brand), it’s worth the price for the amazing sea views of the Golden Horn and Amur bays. Dorms at the Teplo Hotel from £6, doubles at A Hotel Amur Bay from £24

How to get there? Direct eight-hour flights to Vladivostok from Moscow. Vladivostok is also the eastern terminus of the Trans-Siberian railway . Trains leave from Moscow’s Yaroslavskiy railway station – the journey will take six days.

Altai mountains

Altai mountains and the river Katun, Russia.

Why go? Ecotourism is booming in the region with new resorts and hotels popping up all over the Altai – known as the ‘golden mountains’. Many offer guided and themed tours of the nearby areas, such as hikes following the routes described in local legends, that are told to the visitors as they go. Sailing, kayaking and fishing are among other activities. Spa treatments are widely available with special saunas in big cedar barrels. Altai is famous for its honey and herbs, and honey treatments and herbal tea ceremonies are also offered at the local resorts.

Where to stay? Altika eco-hotel is one of the new developments in the region. Most rooms have panoramic views of the woods. Maryin Ostrov resort is a slightly more expensive option but also offers treatments in its spa. Doubles at Altika from £35 B&B, doubles at Maryin Ostrov from £39 B&B

How to get there? Direct four-hour flights to the Gorno-Altaysk airport leave from Moscow Domodedovo. From Gorno-Altaysk there are buses and trains to the smaller villages, depending on your resort of choice. Transfer can also be organised with the resort; ask before booking.

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5 Rihanna-approved holiday destinations in the world!

Priya Srivastava , TIMESOFINDIA.COM , TRAVEL TRENDS , WORLD Updated : Mar 5, 2024, 14:37 IST

holiday travel destinations

Rihanna was recently seen performing in Gujarat’s Jamnagar for the pre-wedding ceremonies of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant. You’ll be living under a rock if you don’t know this iconic Barbadian singer, songwriter, and businesswoman! Rihanna has some incredible chart-topping hits in her music crown. Her love of travel is also not hidden as the Hollywood beauty keeps travelling in style and her luggage which is noteworthy! A global sensation, Rihanna has explored some of the most breathtaking destinations on the planet. A look at 5 of Rihanna-approved holiday destinations from across the globe.

Barbados, Caribbean

For those who don’t know, Rihanna was born in Saint Michael, Barbados. So no prize for guessing that Rihanna's hometown, Barbados holds a special place in her heart. This stunning island in the Caribbean is home to some of the best beaches in the world! Rihanna, when in the mood of a vacation, often visits Barbados to unwind on the sandy shores. If you are travelling to Barbados, make sure you visit the historic capital of Bridgetown, try delicious local cuisine, and have a true Caribbean experience!

Paris, France

The world is well-aware of Rihanna’s love for fashion and beauty. She herself is a globally-recognised fashion icon and trendsetter who also owns a beauty brand. And that is what keeps Rihanna glued to Paris, the fashion capital of the world! From attending haute couture fashion shows to exploring the city's charming streets, Paris holds a special place. She has been spotted many times shopping in high-end boutiques along the Champs-Élysées and taking in the city's iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum.

Tokyo, Japan

In 2023, Rihanna shared several pictures of herself enjoying the sights and sounds in Tokyo, Japan on her social media. A bustling metropolis, Tokyo is known for its vibrant street fashion, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife. Rihanna has been spotted exploring Tokyo's quirky neighbourhoods, shopping, and dining at hidden gem restaurants serving up sushi and ramen!

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is the place of music! And we all are aware of Rihanna's love for music which keeps her bringing back to this pretty city in Brazil. This vibrant city in Brazil is famous for its samba rhythms, carnivals, and natural beauty. Rihanna has been seen soaking up the sun on the iconic beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, dancing the night away at samba clubs, and exploring the lush rainforests surrounding the city.

Capri, Italy

Rihanna loves Italy and the island of Capri seems to be one of her favs. Located off the coast of Naples, Capri is all about rugged coastline, glamorous upscale properties, and delicious food. Rihanna has been known to escape to Capri for some much-needed rest and relaxation, lounging on private yachts, dining at world-class restaurants, and exploring the island's charming villages.

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5 Rihanna-approved holiday destinations in the world!

Rihanna was recently seen performing in Gujarat’s Jamnagar for the pre-wedding ceremonies of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant. You’ll be living under a rock if you don’t know this iconic Barbadian si...

holiday travel destinations

How to spend a perfect weekend in Moscow

Feb 11, 2020 • 5 min read

holiday travel destinations

Moscow enjoyed the status of capital for most of Russia’s history, except for a relatively brief period (about two hundred years), when the Tsar and the government relocated to St Petersburg . But the Bolsheviks moved the capital back to Moscow in 1918, and today it’s an extremely diverse city. It can easily take a couple of weeks to see all of its sights, but if you've only got a weekend to explore, here's how to have two perfect days in Moscow.

Exterior of St Basil's Cathedral at Red Square on a sunny autumn morning.

Start your weekend in Moscow by acquainting yourself with top-notch Russian cuisine at Grand Cafe Dr Zhivago . Located on the first floor of the historical hotel National and overlooking the Kremlin, it’s definitely one of the best breakfast spots in the city. Try millet porridge with crawfish, pearl barley porridge with oxtail or traditional cottage cheese with raisins and candied fruit.

Set aside at least half a day for Russian capital’s major attractions: the Red Square and the Kremlin . To reach the Kremlin, cross the street from Dr Zhivago and walk through the Alexander Garden to the main entrance at the Kutafya Tower . Check out all the cathedrals, including Archangel cathedral with all the tsars’ tombs and Uspensky cathedral with medieval icons. Pause to look at the famous Tsar Bell and climb Ivan the Great Bell Tower to enjoy some great views.

Zaryadye - a landscape and architectural park. Many people stroll over concrete walkways surrounding a rounded building in parkland.

Exit and walk to the Red Square through the Alexander Garden, where, if lucky, you can see the change of guard. If you’re feeling hungry, stop by the food court at Okhotny Ryad shopping complex to pick up a snack.

The Red square is dominated by four buildings of equal historical importance: the Kremlin's most famous Spasskaya (Saviour) Tower , with a clock and fourteen bells that chime national anthem four times a day (6am, noon, 6pm, midnight), St Basil's Cathedral , Moscow's best-known symbol with its multi-colored domes, Lenin’s Mausoleum , the resting place of the leader of the 1917 October revolution, and GUM , Moscow's oldest department store, topped with a glass roof, designed by one of Russia's most celebrated architects, Vladimir Shukhov. 

A guide to shopping in Moscow

Right behind the St Basil’s it is the relatively new Zaryadye Park , designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, famous for its work on the High Line in New York City. Zaryadye showcases flora from all the climate zones of Russia, which is the largest country in the world. The floating bridge at the edge of the park is one of the biggest selfie magnets in Moscow, providing spectacular views of the river and the city skyline as the background. 

Another Zaryadye attraction is a glass pavilion that hosts restaurant Voskhod  (Sunrise) – a perfect spot for your lunch or early dinner. Voskhod focuses on dishes from all fifteen former Soviet Union republics and its inside looks like a Soviet-made spaceship with great views of the Moscow river. Try Azeri home-made pasta or trout from Lake Sevan in Armenia.

After all that walking and exploring you need some quality downtime and what better way to spend it than relaxing for a couple of hours at the famous Sanduny  traditional Russian hot bath. Make sure to get a massage with birch sticks!

You might still have time to go to Winzavod Center – a creative cluster with galleries housed at a former wine factory. Galleries like XL , pop/off/art and Ovcharenko always have something on, most likely a cutting-edge Russian contemporary art exhibition. Finish the evening hanging out at one of the best Moscow bars – try socialites’ paradise Noor Electro , co-joined with one of Moscow’s avant-garde theatres or Powerhouse Moscow , located in a 19th-century mansion, which is famous for live indie and jazz band performances. Both serve great food, too. 

Young people sit on a bench looking at a large painting on the wall. It's by Russian artist Alexander Ivanov, called 'The appearance of Christ to the People' and is displayed in the Tretyakov gallery

Power up for a busy day ahead at one of Moscow’s trendiest coffee/breakfast spots,   Nude . Located in the upscale, well-heeled neighborhood of Patriarch’s Ponds, Nude offers a wide range of breakfast dishes, including scrambled eggs, toast, porridge and banana bread. Book ahead as it might be busy on a weekend morning.

After checking out the Patriarch's Ponds, which features prominently in Mikhail Bulgakov’s perennial novel The Master and Margarita , devote the rest of the morning and early afternoon to exploring Moscow’s best museums. Depending on your tastes, pick one of the following: Tretyakov Gallery for traditional Russian art, from medieval icons to the early 20th century;  New Tretyakov for 20th century and contemporary art as well as great temporary exhibitions;  Pushkin Museum for one of the greatest collections of Impressionist and post-Impressionist art in the world; and the Garage Museum for some eye-opening modern-art exhibitions. 

A blurred train travelling at speed through a station with a tiled wall and a station guide.

Whichever museum or gallery you choose, be sure to go to LavkaLavka for lunch, certainly one of the best places to try new Russian cuisine, which is a contemporary reading of centuries-old recipes. It’s one of the few places to try polugar , which is, allegedly, what Russians called vodka in the 19th century. 

When you talk about Russian culture, literary giants usually pop into mind: the likes of Leo Tolstoy, Fyodor Dostoevsky and Anton Chekhov. There are plenty of literary museums in Moscow, but if you had to pick one, visit Tolstoy Estate Museum , located just opposite the headquarters of Yandex, the Russian equivalent of Google. Every little detail has been restored just the way it looked when Tolstoy lived here in the 1880s–90s. 

Leave some time for exploring the Moscow Metro : every station is an architectural masterpiece in its own right. Our favorites include Mayakovskaya, Komsomolskaya and Kievskaya. Later, unwind at one of dozens of Moscow’s craft beer places . Try  Jawsspot , named after one of the leading breweries in Russia, Jaws from the Urals region, which also serves decent pizza and salads.  

You might also like:

Why food markets in Moscow are having a moment    Russia for first-timers: dos and don’ts    Russia's best drinks and where to try them   

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While it varies by destination, you should generally book a hotel room between 1 and 3 months before you travel. Seasonality plays a major part in rates and availability, too. For example,  California or Florida are often fully booked during the busy summer months, so it's wise to reserve at least 6 months ahead when traveling at that time of year. You should also reserve well in advance if you're heading to major events. For instance,  Madison Square Garden Hotels  should be reserved early when there are sporting fixtures or concerts taking place. The same applies for local holidays. Hotels in New Orleans , for example, get booked out early for ‘Mardi Gras' festivities, while  hotels in Mexico  can be hard to come by for 'Day of the Dead' celebrations.

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  • Harrah's Hotel and Casino Las Vegas
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  • Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort, Orlando
  • The Guitar Hotel at Seminole Hard Rock, Fort Lauderdale
  • Circus Circus Hotel, Casino & Theme Park, Las Vegas
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Recommended vacation rentals

  • Welcome to Storey Lake Resort - Minutes from Disney, 5BR and 4 BA, Orlando
  • Glamp Blue Ridge - Dome 5, Lilith. Escape to a dome on the falls, Cherry Log
  • The Fountains Resort, Orlando, Florida, 2 Bedroom Suite
  • Lahaina Shores Beach Resort
  • Champions Gate Resort, Orlando
  • Cozy Apartment Located in Downtown Laurel, Hattiesburg
  • Vacation Village at Parkway, Orlando
  • The Village of Loon Mountain, Lincoln
  • The Cedar in Treehouse Grove at Norton Creek, Gatlinburg
  • Dillon Beach Resort

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Best family holiday destinations for 2024 that kids of all ages will love

Go worldwide with the family this year with these child-friendly trips, article bookmarked.

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There is a lot to consider when trying to execute a memorable week of quality family time free from boredom, tears and tantrums. Do you try to teach lessons in history, encourage tired legs around thrilling theme parks, build new memories braving adventure activities or create distractions by embracing wildlife?

Ticking everyone’s boxes is no mean feat. You can’t beat a villa holiday for comfort, relaxing beach days, and shallow sandy beaches . What’s not to love about daily ice cream breaks? Cruises offer the easy family fun, with contained entertainment and cultural stop-offs, but you can also get your money’s worth at an all-inclusive luxury resort. Utilise a laid-back kids’ club to schedule in some well-deserved alone time that is sure to please parents.

With such a versatile mix of incredible trips for the whole family, here’s The Independent’s selection of holiday destinations that toddlers, teens and the in-betweens will love to inspire your next family getaway.

Read more on family travel :

  • The best UK holiday destinations for families ​​
  • The best family-friendly hotels in London: Where to stay when you have the kids in tow
  • Spain travel guide: Everything you need to know before you go

Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver makes for a best-of-all-worlds trip

Vancouver is full of bustling markets, interactive museums and foodie hotspots. The Canadian city’s dynamic landscape makes it the perfect holiday destination for all ages. Adventures for outdoor enthusiasts spotting black bears in the Rocky Mountains , relaxing on the beaches of Vancouver’s waterfront and taking a stroll around the unmissable Stanley Park are all accessible from the cosmopolitan city. Direct long-haul flights from the UK take around nine hours 30 minutes — that’s roughly six back-to-back viewings of Moana for those with toddlers — and teenage travellers are sure to appreciate the nap time. With plenty to do indoors and out in every season, be it skiing, hiking or enjoying a coffee with the locals, make the trip over the pond and get stuck into Canadian culture.

Disneyland Paris, France

Let imaginations run wild at the Disneyland Park in Paris

Experience the magic of the ultimate childhood dream at Disneyland Paris . Beat the height restrictions by taking your big kids so the whole family can ride — you’re never too old for a Mickey Mouse beignet and headband ears. Fear not, there are lots of child-friendly rides for youngsters: go for a flight with Dumbo and float along the iconic It’s a Small World River for endless entertainment.

Make sure to take a day off from the rollercoasters to explore the culture and taste of the French capital from the Disneyland area hotels. Travelling to Paris on the Eurostar not only avoids the stress of taking unpredictable little ones on a plane but is more mindful of carbon emissions, has a generous baggage allowance for prams, and children under four can travel for free.

Reykjavík, Iceland

Visit the cityscape of Reykjavík, Iceland

Iceland’s capital has a small-town feel and is super accessible via a great bus system, including hop-on hop-off journeys, to explore the famously safe and friendly nation with kids. There are endless activities in and around Reykjavík that cater to all ages. Nordic staples, including hunting the Northern Lights , whitewater rafting and a round trip to the Golden Circle, are bound to be a hit with everyone. Teenage Game of Thrones fans will love touring Thingvellir National Park and other filming locations from the hit series, while youngsters light up on whale and puffin-watching boat trips and memorable visits to Viking museums.

The milky waters of the Blue Lagoon are another perfect spot for all members of the family to make the trip their own. Parents, think about enjoying a relaxing spa day with the adults. Children, take the opportunity to put on a silica mud mask as you float around under Iceland’s breathtaking volcanic landscape.

Tanzania, Africa

Animal lovers can safari with elephants in the Masai Mara

Tanzania’s vast reserves and savannahs are the best destination for wildlife-loving families looking to take on an adventure-style safari in the Serengeti. Mesmerise the kids during action-packed days and make the most of the ample opportunities to get up close and personal with the Big Five — lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffalo — to add a tick to your bucket list.

Post-safari visit the tropical haven of Zanzibar for blissful sandy beach days after a rewarding trip full of lessons and experiences in rich culture, cookery and spectacular natural beauty. Most safari providers tailor to the ages of your family so you are suitably comfortable in glamping accommodation, the truck on game drives and set out early to avoid the worst of the intense Tanzanian heat. Alternatively, explore taking it at your own pace and keeping the attention of little ones with self-drive safari options and canoe trips on Lake Manyara National Park.

Mallorca, Spain

Beaches and boathouses are aplenty in Mallorca

From waterparks to dolphin-spotting trips and scenic orange train rides, Mallorca is a dream for families looking to unwind— there’s a reason it’s a favourite with the Brits. The largest of the welcoming Balearic Islands is well equipped to accommodate everyone, with an abundance of family-friendly bars, restaurants and exceptional holiday resorts at your disposal.

Warm Spanish temperatures from June to September are just a short-haul flight from the UK, and trips to the Mediterranean climate can be surprisingly affordable. Put up the whole family in a spacious villa and – if you can bear to part from the pool – there’s something for all on Puerto Pollensa’s picturesque stretch of beach. Teenagers will love chilling out in the sun and toddlers can practice the art of the sandcastle before enjoying an ice cream.

Phuket, Thailand

Take a day excursion on a long tail boat in South Thailand

Consider a cruise with the kids to combine vibrant Thai culture with the security of on-deck accommodation. Travel to the remote waters of Phuket via a multicultural medley of Asian destinations to guarantee an exceptional adventure each day. With plenty of secluded spots away from the hustle of city life, soak up the sun with views of Thailand’s lush mountain landscapes and see the sheer cliffs of the famous “James Bond Island” in Phang Nga Bay. Lively marine life, such as turtles, manta rays and vibrant coral, are best spotted from under the water when snorkelling and scuba diving.

Hop off the ship to sample local cuisine in Phuket town and pay a visit to the 45m-high Big Buddha and the temple of Wat Chalong’s Grand Pagoda. Adventures onboard include swimming, surfing and a skydiving simulator all kids will love. With so many fun activities on and off the land, we imagine it’ll be a unanimous yes from all your relatives.

Carlisle Bay, Antigua

The Caribbean beach of Carlisle Bay

It’s hard to imagine anyone saying no to a holiday in the Caribbean , but long-haul travel to an unfamiliar destination with tots and teens can be daunting. Worry not: turquoise water, white sand and a rainforest backdrop await at the luxury resort of Carlisle Bay in Antigua. Make the most of the Cool Kids Club for children under 12, or cherish the thrills of a family day out at the unique experience of Stingray City and the Antigua Rainforest Zipline Tour for all ages.

With nothing overlooked, leaving the resort isn’t a necessity but there is much more to a stay in Antigua than beaches and all-inclusive Bacardi’s. Nearby, the Unesco World Heritage Site of English Harbour and Nelson’s Dockyard, a Georgian naval base since 1725, is the island’s historical hub for archaeological research. On Sunday nights, the famous viewpoint of Shirley Heights comes alive with spectacular sunsets, Caribbean music and barbeque food a huge hit with tourists.

Isles of Scilly, England

St Mary’s Harbour, Isles of Scilly

Staycations to the Isles of Scilly are a great option for more low-key travellers, and the destination can be reached on ferries, small planes and helicopters departing from the Cornish coast. Families longing for a beach holiday can relax on the sheltered, clean bays of the remote British surroundings. With some of the best of the UK weather in the summer months, friendly locals and stunning scenery, embrace the slowed-down pace of life on the child-sized isles — ideal for roaming with little legs.

Bikes and golf buggies are available to hire, and boat trips run regularly from the capital of St Mary’s to each of the other islands. Make sure to visit Scilly’s Tresco Abbey Garden, a subtropical gem home to plants from every Mediterranean climate. The kids are bound to come home with sand and shells in tow — no, you will never be allowed to throw them away — as tokens from their home-from-home holiday.

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The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2023

Where to go in 2023, according to T+L editors — for a breath of fresh air, a big-city adventure, or a glimpse at the future of travel.

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.

With much of the world reopened, 2023 is shaping up to be the year travel officially bounces back. We made our list of the 50 best destinations for 2023 a little differently this year: We asked Travel + Leisure's editors where they want to go in the months ahead. Some are raring to get back to Japan, while others have the Trans-Bhutan Trail on their lists. Still more are planning a sail around Greenland, a wine-tasting trip on California’s central coast, and a visit to France’s next big wine region (which is, as it happens, tiny).

A few up-and-coming culinary destinations made our list, as did a remarkable piece of art, the size and scale of which boggles the imagination. While many of the team’s picks are remote, breathe-in-that-fresh-air kinds of places, our list doesn’t skimp on cities where the hustle and bustle is part of the fun.

But with so many choices now back on the map, there are as many styles of trips as there are places to explore. That’s why, for the first time in recent memory, we’ve broken our list of best places to go into categories.

The hope is that, whatever it is you’re after in the year ahead, you’ll find it in one of these 50 places. And who knows? We may just see you there.

— Edited by Paul Brady and Maya Kachroo-Levine

Destination by Category

For cultural riches, alexandria, virginia.

K. Summerer for Visit Alexandria

With postcard-perfect cobblestone streets and quick access to the wineries of northern Virginia , Alexandria is an easy city to love. But these days, the reason to go is to see how effectively the city is confronting its own history, as destinations across the American South grapple with the legacy of the Confederacy . Alexandria, which was founded as a tobacco port in 1749, was for decades of the 19th century the site of the country’s largest domestic slave trade . Today, the Freedom House Museum has three new exhibitions honoring the people who were forcibly brought here. Meanwhile, the African American Heritage Trail, which opened in 2020, follows the Potomac River and encompasses nearly 200 years of history at 11 stops, such as the Torpedo Factory , where many Black men and women worked during World War II. An extension of the route will debut in February 2023 with 20 new stops, including Waterfront Park, the port from which enslaved people were trafficked to places like New Orleans. At Jones Point Park, visitors can learn about Benjamin Banneker , an inventor, mathematician, and free African American from Maryland who was instrumental in the 1791 surveying team that determined the border of the new U.S. capital of Washington, D.C. (For an even deeper look at the city’s Black experience, book with Manumission Tours , which is run by a fourth-generation Alexandrian .) The city’s most elegant stay is Morrison House Old Town Alexandria, Autograph Collection , which was recently voted one of the best city hotels in the continental U.S. in T+L’s 2022 World’s Best Awards. A new Hotel AKA is slated to open in Old Town in winter 2023. — Liz Cantrell

Cairo and the Nile

Emli Bendixen

It’s almost here: After more than a decade of construction — to say nothing of the hype — the Grand Egyptian Museum may finally open, just a stone’s throw from the Great Pyramids of Giza, this spring. What to expect? More than 1 million square feet of exhibition space, treasures including a 40-foot-high statue of Ramses II, outdoor gardens, and an expansive plaza from which visitors can take in the desert surroundings. Meanwhile, a number of new and luxurious ships have started sailing the Nile: Among the best choices are the Viking Osiris , an all-veranda vessel carrying 82 passengers, and the opulent Sphinx from Uniworld Boutique River Cruises , which has 42 cabins swathed in marble and hand-carved wood, with beds dressed in fine Egyptian cotton sheets. The hotel scene is also, thankfully, getting a refresh with a new Mandarin Oriental slated for downtown Cairo in 2024; the forthcoming 200-room Four Seasons Hotel Luxor is scheduled to debut in 2025 — not that you should wait that long to see the ancient Valley of the Kings. — John Wogan

“City,” Nevada

City, 1970 – 2022 © Michael Heizer. Courtesy Triple Aught Foundation. Photo: Eric Piasecki

Even in a state known for its vast, empty landscapes, Basin and Range National Monument , about a two-hour drive north of Las Vegas, takes “remote” to a new level. The 704,000-acre preserve, created in 2015, provides endless opportunities for hiking, climbing, camping, and cycling; its desert valleys and mountain ranges are also dotted with Indigenous rock art sites. But the reason to go now is “ City ,” the single largest contemporary artwork in the world, which opened to visitors in September 2022. Made from dirt, rock, and concrete, the monumental open-air sculpture was more than 50 years in the making, a collection of mounds, depressions, and stelae conceived by the artist Michael Heizer . The endeavor — which was made possible by joint contributions from art institutions around the country, including LACMA and MoMA — will open to the public for the 2023 season by reservation only . The mile-and-a-half-long sculpture feels at once ancient and futuristic, a destination just as awe-inspiring as the natural one surrounding it. — John Wogan

Havana, Cuba

Brad Ogbonna

The can-you, can’t-you continues, but the Biden administration has made it a touch easier to visit Cuba as a result of its May 2022 relaxation of some restrictions on travel to the island. These days, Americans can go as part of a group tour or visit individually on a "support for the Cuban people" license, travel advisor Molly Layman told T+L. “It’s one of 12 authorized categories of travel to the island,” she said, adding that “it requires citizens to have a full-time schedule of activities that support the Cuban people, which is easily fulfilled through buying services from Cuban entrepreneurs, staying in local homes, dining in private restaurants, and booking cultural activities.” Those ready to take to the vibrant streets of Havana will also need a visa, said Layman, who works as director of operations at tour company Cuba Candela . Travelers can handle that, she said, “on the day of travel at the airport check-in desk or from a tour provider.” (The cost varies depending on where a visa is purchased but rarely exceeds $100.) While the hoops are undeniable, they may well be worth jumping through in the year ahead. — Christine Burroni

Tangier, Morocco

Issam Elhafti/Getty Images

For decades, this northern Moroccan city has attracted a stream of bohemian expats including, most famously, beat-generation writers Paul Bowles and William S. Burroughs. That’s how it cultivated a reputation as a place where foreigners went to live, rather than simply visit. But Tangier’s reputation could change this spring, thanks in part to the opening of Villa Mabrouka — British designer Jasper Conran’s second Moroccan property, which follows the 2018 opening of L'Hôtel Marrakech . The one-time private residence of fashion icon Yves Saint Laurent and his partner, the hillside property has gorgeous views over the Bay of Tangier within walking distance to the city’s frenetic medina. Villa Mabrouka joins other newcomers, like the Museum of Contemporary Art , a space displaying work by regional artists, also called the Kasbah Museum, as it's housed in the renovated, 17th-century Kasbah prison. Also new on the proverbial block is the just-opened Fairmont Tazi Palace Tangier , set on a refurbished, century-old estate near the old city. Anticipation is already growing for a recently announced Waldorf Astoria, a 115-room and 21-villa resort set to open in 2025. — John Wogan

Lakes Region, Turkey

Istanbul and Bodrum are both rightly popular, but U.S. travelers will find much to love in other pockets of this diverse country — including this inland part of southwestern Anatolia, which travel advisor Engin Kadaster predicts “will be very popular in the years to come.” Kadaster has been including the Lakes Region on more and more itineraries for her clients, and helped coordinate a story in T+L’s August 2022 issue that included destinations such as Isparta , the region’s largest city and a center of rose and lavender production, and the ancient hilltop city of Sagalassos. The region’s most famous feature — naturally — is a series of tectonic lakes, created by ancient earthquakes, in the foothills of the Taurus Mountains, but it also holds many ancient Greek and Roman archaeological sites. A blessed lack of mass tourism means that this isn’t a hot spot for luxury hotels, but cozy places like Eskiciler Konaği , a renovated century-old mansion near Lake Eğirdir, or Aliya Konak , a seasonal farmstay on a working lavender operation in Isparta, are warm and welcoming. Intrepid travelers can ditch the hotels altogether by camping along the new Pisidia Heritage Trail , a waymarked route that unites the Lakes Region’s splendid nature and unique history as it passes through ancient sites like Kremna, Adada, and Yazılı Canyon. — Hannah Walhout

The United Kingdom

Courtesy of Peninsula London

T+L’s Destination of the Year may be undergoing a once-in-a-lifetime period of transition, but some things never change. For one, the country’s historic cities will always be home to hotels that mix stately grandeur and affable service. This past summer saw the opening of Gleneagles Townhouse , a chic, urban outpost of the iconic Gleneagles resort, in the heart of Edinburgh; next year London will welcome the cool glam of the Peter Marino–designed Peninsula London . Of the U.K.’s many world-class museums, two have recently gotten upgrades: Glasgow’s Burrell Collection , a stunning assortment of international art and artifacts, and the Manchester Museum , which is dedicated to the natural sciences. The Factory , Manchester’s new cultural center, pays tribute to the famous record label behind '80s rock bands the Happy Mondays and New Order. Gourmands (and the just plain hungry) will want to sample the broad range of culinary delights at London’s new Arcade Food Hall at Battersea Power Station, the latest stage in the rehabilitation of the historic building. No visit to the U.K. is complete without venturing out into its peerless countryside, and Scotland’s first rewilding center, Dundreggan , is one noteworthy place to take it all in: Managed by charitable organization Trees for Life , this 10,000-acre estate on the shores of Scotland’s Loch Ness plans to open a visitor’s center by the end of 2023. Meanwhile, the new Two Toms Trail in Lancashire covers 25 miles and features some of England’s most stunning scenery. — Peter Terzian

Getty Images

The perennially popular city made headlines in 2022 for its day-trip entrance fee , which takes effect in January 2023. But why only go for the day? The Venice Architecture Biennale runs May 20, 2023 to Nov. 26, 2023, with global exhibits curated by Lesley Lokko, the first Black architect to organize the event. Architecture lovers will also want to visit the Procuratie Vecchie, the 16th-century building along St. Mark's Square. Though its façade is one of Italy’s most photographed, the public has only recently been allowed inside, after the completion of a five-year refurbishment led by David Chipperfield Architects . Those looking for nostalgic luxury should plan to arrive in the second half of the year, with their bags packed for a train trip: Belmond’s iconic Venice Simplon-Orient Express will unveil two newly restored carriages from the 1920s and ‘30s in June, with opulent suites modeled to mirror the landscapes of Europe. — Nina Ruggiero

For the Food — and Wine

Courtesy of Four Seasons

It may have a reputation as a stopover city, but Athens deserves a closer look — and at least a few nights — in the year ahead. Not far from the Piraeus port , where travelers hop both domestic ferries and cruise ships that criss-cross the Mediterranean, the Athens Riviera has seen a surge of development. Four Seasons Astir Palace , which opened amid the pandemic, has a private beach on the sparkling Saronic Sea and two spaces designed by Swedish architect Martin Brudnizki, including a midcentury modern cocktail bar and Pelagos restaurant, which has already earned its first Michelin star. In the spring of 2023, One&Only Aesthesis will open just a few miles away, also along the waterfront. Next door is the brand-new Experience Park, with trails, fitness classes, fountains, a Zen garden, and bountiful native plants and flowers; it’s part of an $8-billion waterfront green space called The Ellinikon , on the former site of the city’s international airport, that’s still under development. In central Athens, the 2022 opening of the 43-room Xenodocheio Milos hotel in the Pláka neighborhood brings a bit of cosmopolitan verve, from the team behind international restaurant brand Estiatorio Milos . And while the Odeon of Herodes Atticus on the Acropolis isn’t new — the ancient amphitheater first opened about 1,900 years ago — it will bring back a full schedule of shows in 2023 after a pandemic-era slowdown. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

Central Florida

Courtesy of Small World Vacations

This fall, Hurricane Ian took 81 lives and caused $60 billion in damage across Florida. While the hard-hit southwestern part of the state continues to recover, Visit Florida president and CEO Dana Young said in October that other regions are ready to welcome travelers back. Central Florida in particular is worth a closer look, thanks to its ever-growing hospitality scene. Orlando and Tampa recently won a combined 14 Michelin accolades in 2022, when the guidebook publisher released its first-ever guide to Florida restaurants. The area’s family-friendly draws are better than ever: Disney’s recently opened, highly immersive Star Wars : Galactic Starcruiser is a two-night adventure that takes themed entertainment to the next level by allowing guests to eat, sleep, and breathe Star Wars with lightsaber training, out-of-this-world dining (blue shrimp, anyone?), and a trip to Batuu at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Meantime, Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary celebrations continue through March 2023, with limited-time eats, nighttime spectaculars, and festive décor. In Tampa, the latest Edition Hotel just opened with a sprawling rooftop pool club and restaurant from chef John Fraser. And getting both to and around Central Florida is easier than ever, with the recent opening of Orlando International Airport’s new 15-gate Terminal C and Brightline rail service connecting Orlando to South Florida destinations including Miami and West Palm Beach beginning in 2023. — Elizabeth Rhodes

The Jura, France

Guillaume Megevand

There’s a tiny French region just west of the border with Switzerland that’s producing some big, big wines. Thing is, only a tiny fraction of those bottles ever make it to the U.S., as T+L recently reported . That means you’ve got to go to the Jura — preferably before everyone gets wise to the area’s seven Appellations of Controlled Origin (AOCs) . Among serious oenophiles, word is already spreading about the vin jaune, “yellow wine,” made from native savagnin grapes and aged in the Jura’s distinct sous voile style, in which the wine matures “under a veil.” Not that wine is the only draw. The Jura also boasts a comté cheese trail — as if the région weren’t French enough — that connects no fewer than 150 fromageries and dairy farms. Hiking in the Jura Mountains, through Baume-les-Messieurs village and to the Hérisson waterfalls , is equally enticing, particularly as an antidote to all the wine- and cheese-focused sightseeing. Most surprising, perhaps, is just how accessible this under-the-radar area can be. Getting to the Jura takes two hours from the French capital by high-speed train , departing from Paris’s Gare de Lyon. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

San Luis Obispo County, California

Courtesy of Visit SLO CAL/Acacia Productions

It’s time to stop sleeping on “SLO.” Once considered a quick Pacific Coast Highway stopover for those visiting Hearst Castle — which reopened this past spring 2022 after a two-year closure — the central coast county is now a draw in its own right. SLO’s seven cities, including Morro Bay, Paso Robles, Pismo Beach, and San Luis Obispo, are all buzzing, and the area just earned official American Viticulture Area (AVA) recognition in 2022, thanks to more than 200 wineries, many of which are family owned . Two new Nomada Hotel Group properties opening in 2023 will welcome the inevitable influx of oenophiles: Farmhouse, a collection of 26 rustic-chic cottages with fire pits and hammocks, arrives in January; while River Lodge, a mile from the Paso Robles wine trail, is slated for May. Also being reimagined under Nomada is the Gold Rush–era Pozo Saloon , reopening in the town of Santa Margarita in August with outdoor soaking tubs, live music, trails for hiking and horseback riding, and a glamping site. Paso Robles just notched its first Michelin star ( Six Test Kitchen ), while San Luis Obispo’s SLO Public Market will welcome two new restaurants, All Good Grill and Todo Bueno , in 2023. Nature lovers should make a beeline for the Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove : The insects were recently put on the endangered list, but this spot still draws over 10,000 annually. — Nina Ruggiero

Victoria, Australia

Matteo Colombo/Getty Images

Australia has reopened, and this southern state is a particularly appealing corner of the country these days, thanks to hot springs resorts that are poised to make it the next big wine-and-wellness destination: Alba Thermal Springs and Spa on the Mornington Peninsula was the first to open in September 2022, with pools powered by solar and a commitment to achieving climate-positive operations. Metung Hot Springs in East Gippsland is set to follow in late 2022, with updated facilities in an area long known for its thermal waters. Phillip Island Hot Springs , which distinguishes itself with several saltwater features, plans to open in early 2023. Out on the Mornington Peninsula — a destination long popular for its world-class wineries — the InterContinental Sorrento began accepting reservations this past August 2022. Melbourne, Victoria’s appealing capital city, is also expecting new openings, including the intimate, seven-suite Hotel Vera Ballarat by year’s end, followed by the highly anticipated Ritz-Carlton Melbourne , set to open in 2023 in Australia’s tallest tower. Qantas is making it easier to get there, too: By December 2022, the airline will have four nonstop flights a week connecting Dallas and Melbourne, a welcome bridge between Victoria and the middle of the U.S. — Sarah Bruning

For Big-city Thrills

Jonathan Filskov/Getty Images

The eternally cool city will highlight its prowess with all things design, as the official UNESCO World Capital of Architecture in 2023. Venues across Copenhagen — contemporary parks, starchitect-designed skyscrapers, even typically humdrum infrastructure like playgrounds — will host events and visitors for a look at the future of the urban environment. One highlight will be the Copenhill Power Plant, the cleanest waste-to-energy plant in the world — that’s also the site of an artificial ski slope. “We’re going to do a lot of open-house events where 50 different venues are going to be open to the public that are usually closed to visitors,” said Copenhagen’s city architect Camilla van Deurs, who mentioned as examples churches; bridges; and the Danmarks Nationalbank, the central bank building planned in part by Danish design legend Arne Jacobsen. “Superkilen,” van Deurs said, “is a playground for kids and adults — and a cultural hub in the middle of Nørrebro, the most ethnically mixed neighborhood in Copenhagen.” New places to stay in the city also deliver a signature blend of modernism and hygge: Find it at the single-suite Kaj Hotel , which floats on a canal near Copenhagen Opera House, or the colorful new 25 Hours Hotel Copenhagen . — Tim Latterner

Lance Childers/Houston First

The 2020 opening of the Kinder Building, the latest addition to the Museum of Fine Arts Houston , cemented the city’s spot among true international arts destinations. The recent reopening of the Rothko Chapel , after a $35-million renovation, has only reinforced that reputation. Today, a wealth of new ventures is poised to raise the profile of Texas’s largest city in other categories as well. Opening next year, the JMK5 Arena will transform a disused racetrack into a 12,500-seat concert stadium poised to rival the venues of Vegas. It arrives on the heels of the relatively more intimate 713 Music Hall , which has attracted artists ranging from Judas Priest to Lil Nas X. The Houston Zoo is undergoing a much-delayed expansion that will include a Galápagos Islands–themed exhibit, which will feature an underwater tunnel and a penguin habitat. And the Houston Botanic Gardens , which opened in 2020, features 132 acres of diverse ecosystems, from wetlands to prairie. — Peter Terzian

Courtesy of Rosewood Villa Magna

The Spanish capital may finally, thankfully, be shaking off its reputation as the country’s somewhat stuffy business hub. A flurry of tony hotel openings throughout the city has helped, by bringing plenty of personality to what had been a staid scene. It began in 2021 with the arrival of the Mandarin Oriental Ritz ; Rosewood Villa Magna ; and Santo Mauro, a Luxury Collection Hotel . Then came the Edition in April 2022 . Breathing new life into the former Monte de Piedad de Madrid building, the hotel has 177 rooms, 21 suites, and two penthouses, plus two restaurants with food from chef Enrique Olvera and the culinary team behind Mexico City’s acclaimed Pujol . Elsewhere in Madrid, an already electric food scene has only gotten better — particularly in the glamorous Salamanca neighborhood and architecture-rich Chamberi district — with new offerings representing everything from Middle Eastern falafel and Argentinian asado to Spanish-Indian fusion and globally inflected vegan fare. — Sarah Bruning

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Welcome to the new Nashville. The city’s tourism renaissance is being fueled, in part, by a slew of just-opened hotels, including a Conrad , 1 Hotel , and a Soho House . (A Four Seasons just popped up in the bustling SoBro neighborhood, too.) The newly redesigned Hermitage Hotel , meanwhile, now has the first Jean-Georges Vongerichten restaurant in the South. The Fifth + Broadway complex has new outposts of old favorites, like fried chicken staple Hattie B’s , and the expansive Assembly Food Hall has dozens of choices, including bars, plural. That inimitable Nashville energy can still be found on Broadway, at honky-tonk bars that go until all hours, but there’s also Justin Timberlake’s sexy Twelve Thirty Club or live events like CMA Fest , which is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2023. Getting there has never been easier, thanks to low-cost carriers such as Breeze Airways and Southwest, both of which have recently added more flights from both coasts, not to mention places like Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Ohio’s Akron-Canton Airport. — Elizabeth Rhodes

Forget the notion that Steel City is just a town for football and factories. The metropolis is working on new cultural destinations that can’t be missed: While the next lunar lander is currently being built in Pittsburgh, the Moonshot Museum , which opened in October 2022, is putting on display mankind’s history of getting to and exploring the lunar surface. The Carnegie Museum of Art is hosting its 58th Carnegie International Exhibition, a huge temporary show of both historical and contemporary art which runs through April 2, 2023. The childhood home of playwright August Wilson has been restored and turned into a museum, complete with studios for arts programming. The city also has a new spate of hotels and bars drawing crowds, like the modern-chic Joinery Hotel Pittsburgh, Curio Collection by Hilton and The Industrialist, Autograph Collection in the Arrott building, one of the city’s first skyscrapers. Across the river in Allentown, Bottlerocket Social Hall is the perfect place to post up with locals and, yes, watch the game. — Tim Latterner

San Francisco

Ryan White/Parks Conservancy

Despite the so-called national conversation, the apocalypse has not yet come to San Francisco. True, this city had the most extreme wealth divide of any in California in 2020, and the seams here can be especially visible. But all the reasons SF shines — the arts, the nature, the dim sum, the sourdough — haven’t gone anywhere. And a slate of recent infrastructure and cultural projects show that many in the city are working to make it a better place to live and a more compelling destination to visit. The new Institute of Contemporary Art San Francisco walks the walk of its focus on equity: the museum is completely free and has opted against a permanent collection in order to direct more funds to artists and staff. The city’s urban national park unit, the Presidio of San Francisco , recently gained 14 acres with the opening of the Presidio Tunnel Tops , a green space designed by James Corner Field Operations, the lead firm for New York City’s High Line, which incorporated input from more than 10,000 residents. Another massive community-led park and mixed-use development is underway in India Basin , with sustainability and affordable housing as stated core values. The hospitality scene is also on the come up: 1 Hotel San Francisco , The Line SF , and Beacon Grand (formerly the Sir Francis Drake) have all opened in the past six months, and Auberge Resorts Collection is slated to debut a new hotel in the Hearst Building in 2023. — Hannah Walhout

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

American travelers can finally get back to the South Korean capital after years of pandemic restrictions — and there’s plenty to catch up on. The city’s arts scene is buzzing, thanks to new venues such as Konig Gallery , not to mention the announcement from Seoul Museum of Art that three new wings will launch by 2024. (An added boost came from Seoul hosting its first edition of Frieze this past September, during which many commenters asked if K-art may well be the next K-pop.) Meanwhile the destination has seen a number of new hotels open, including the surprisingly trendy Fairmont Ambassador Seoul and Josun Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seoul Gangnam , with its sweeping views of the globally famous district and stunning public spaces, including 1914 Lounge & Bar. — Tim Latterner

For Moments on the Water

Cape verde, the gambia, ghana, and guinea-bissau.

Arnau Ferrer

Though Ghana has, in recent years, surged in popularity as a destination for American visitors , particularly Black Americans , West Africa remains unfamiliar to many. One solution may be the innovative West Africa Archipelago cruises that Hurtigruten Expeditions aims to launch in November 2023. These two-week trips, aboard the line’s 180-passenger Spitsbergen , will stop in ports in four countries, with a huge array of activities on the expedition schedule: visits to historically important sites including Gorée Island ; wildlife-watching forays to spot hippos and manatees; and adventures such as scaling volcanoes and scrambling across lava fields. Though some cruise lines occasionally stop in West African ports, Hurtigruten’s deep focus on the region represents a step change — one that’s driven by passenger demand, said Asta Lassesen, the CEO of Hurtigruten Expeditions. “These islands are not as known as our other destinations, but they are teeming with unique wildlife, different cultures, and offer completely different experiences than you’d find in a traditional cruise destination,” Lassesen told T+L. — Paul Brady

Coastal Ecuador

Courtesy of Kontiki Expeditions

Many travelers know the historic capital city of Quito and the incredibly biodiverse Galápagos Islands , but now's the time to visit Ecuador’s stunning Pacific coastline. From surf towns like Montañita to the preserved beaches and cloud forest of Machalilla National Park, coastal Ecuador is packed with outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Kontiki Expeditions unlocks the region with eight-day yacht cruises that visit five of the country’s 24 provinces, hitting destinations including Isla de la Plata and Salinas. A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Kontiki Expeditions operates an intimate ship with just nine staterooms, refined outdoor and indoor spaces, and a nearly 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio. (Guests can book an individual room, or charter the entire 18-passenger yacht.) Getting there has gotten smoother, too: U.S. airlines including American, JetBlue, and Spirit now offer direct flights to Guayaquil, from which Kontiki Expeditions trips depart. — Elizabeth Rhodes

The Explora I

Courtesy of EXPLORA I

Just don’t call it a cruise: Upstart travel company Explora Journeys describes its itineraries as “ocean journeys,” nevermind the fact they’re aboard the newly built, 461-suite Explora I . The vessel is slated to hit the water in July 2023, with trips in the Mediterranean that visit popular cruise destinations such as Barcelona and Civitavecchia, near Rome, as well as lesser-visited ports including Patmos, Greece, and St.-Tropez, France. “It’s a new style of ocean travel that connects you with the things that are important,” Explora CEO Michael Ungerer told T+L. “There’s a craving to learn something new and make authentic connections without leaving your tried and tested luxury environment and services behind.” Indeed, life aboard won’t be monastic: Explora I will have 18 restaurants and bars and a massive spa, among other luxuries. Still, should all that ocean journeying become a bit too wearying, guests can always retreat to their suites, all of which have private verandas. In fact, when it debuts, Explora I will have the most space per passenger of any vessel anywhere. — Paul Brady

Antarctica is so last year. While Greenland may not have penguins, it does promise plenty of beautiful landscapes and seemingly endless horizons. The newly christened National Geographic Resolution will sail the Eastern shore of Greenland in June 2023, with opportunities to explore the Rømer Fjord depending on conditions. Ponant has a dozen distinct itineraries scheduled for 2023, including a number of round trips from Kangerlussuaq, in Western Greenland, that explore Baffin Bay. The brand-new Seabourn Venture, the line’s first expedition ship, will also be there in 2023; one particularly compelling August itinerary starts in Iceland, spends nearly three weeks along Greenland’s coast, then continues through the Northwest Passage before wrapping in Anchorage, Alaska. More conventional operators, such as Regent Seven Seas Cruises, are making the polar destination a fixture, too. The Seven Seas Navigator will visit Prince Christian Sound and make calls in Nuuk and Paamiut on a June 2023 sailing between New York City and Reykjavik. — Paul Brady

Hvar, Croatia

Goran Stimac/Getty Images

Those seeking a brighter 2023 will find it on Hvar: This Dalmatian Coast island calls itself the sunniest in Croatia. That means plenty of time for cycling more than 100 miles of bikeable terrain or kayak trips to secluded beaches. At night, those clear skies make for incredible stargazing: Jesla, on the island’s north shore, was named the first International Dark Sky Community in Southern Europe in 2022; and Moeesy , the island’s newest luxury hotel, has one room with an over-the-bed skylight for bedtime viewing. The town of Velo Grablje’s 14th-century charm peaks in July, when the lavender festival blooms with food, drink, and family-friendly activities all centered around the fragrant Mediterranean plant. And in Hvar proper, the harborside Riva Marina hotel reopened in June 2022 with refreshed waterfront terrace suites and a new restaurant and bar concept focused on local ingredients. Just down the block is the island’s first sustainable hotel , Beach Bay , which opened this past summer 2022 with an off-grid solar power system and a commitment to honor UNESCO’s Sustainable Travel Pledge . — Nina Ruggiero

The Path of Totality

©StudioPonant/Laure Patricot

A total solar eclipse, in which the moon blocks the sun and plunges the Earth into momentary darkness, is a “relatively common” phenomenon, NASA heliophysicist Dr. Michael Kirk told T+L. The trick is that most eclipses happen over water or in extremely remote places — which is why spotting the next one, on April 20, 2023, will be all about the chase. The upcoming path of totality will cross the Indian Ocean, graze Western Australia, then sweep across Indonesia and East Timor into the Pacific; astro-enthusiasts can chart its full course with the Totality app . That means the best way to catch the show will be to board a ship , such as the 188-passenger Le Lapérouse, for a Ponant and Smithsonian Journeys cruise from Bali, Indonesia, to Broome, Australia. The new Indonesia-based charter yacht Celestia will also be sailing around the edges of totality, making visits to the islands of Komodo National Park, the Moluccas, and Raja Ampat. The very best odds for viewing, said NASA’s Kirk, will be in Western Australia, where “the Exmouth Peninsula, Barrow Island, and the sea in between should have clear skies.” Eclipse chasers could drive the 750 miles from Perth to Cape Range National Park on the Ningaloo Reef–fringed Exmouth, but Tropical Sails Corp’s Pacific Explorer , which can take you there from Perth on a five-day Indian Ocean sail, seems a far more pleasant journey. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

For Fresh Air and Nature

Courtesy of Pal-Arinsal Ski Resort

This tiny European country, which at 181 square miles is smaller than Chicago, could soon turn into one of the world’s biggest ski destinations. The mountainous country, situated between France and Spain, has long been known for its reliable December-to-April conditions thanks to its high-altitude perch in the Pyrenees. But now, for the first time, three Andorra ski areas have been added to the Ikon Pass , putting a collective 7,600 acres of downhill terrain across 215 runs and 123 lifts into play for holders of the global lift ticket. At the same time, the three destinations of Grandvalira , Ordino Arcalís , and Pal-Arinsal (or, collectively, the Grandvalira Resorts Andorra ) will be available on a single local Andorra Pass , which starts at about $50 a day, a bargain by any big-mountain standards. Alternatively, visitors can opt for a newly launched Nord Pass, a multi-day ticket that works at both Ordino Arcalís and Pal-Arinsal for less than $40 per day. So, while these affordable mountains remain a bit of a challenge to reach — Grandvalira can be a four-hour drive from Barcelona — the days of smaller crowds may soon be a thing of the past. — Jamie Aranoff

Asheville, North Carolina

Tim Robison

This flannel-clad city in the Blue Ridge Mountains checks all the boxes, with year-round outdoor activities, sophisticated dining, and easy access, whether you’re driving or flying. (Asheville Regional Airport is on pace for a record-breaking 2022 , with service from 25 destinations.) But the year ahead offers more reasons to visit, starting with some cool new places to stay: Wrong Way River Lodge has a collection of A-frame cabins along the French Broad River that are perfect for white-water rafters. AutoCamp Asheville , another glamping-esque abode with Airstream campers, is slated to open by mid-2023. Downtown, the new Restoration Hotel promises a properly plush stay; its sister property in Charleston consistently ranks in T+L's World's Best Awards . (For those who’d rather be even closer to nature, The Glamping Collective is a newly opened, 160-acre site with domed pods and glass cabins situated a short drive from the city.) Asheville’s food scene has fresh energy from S&W Market , Asheville’s first food hall and the brainchild of award-winning chef Meherwan Irani. For all that’s new, visitors shouldn’t skip the old standbys: French Broad Chocolates is a local fave that’s since gone national, and Battery Park Book Exchange is the prime spot for a late-night glass of Champagne amid dusty bookshelves. — Samantha Falewée

Aysén, Chile

Stefan Ruiz

Chile’s Aysén region lies between two popular destinations — Torres del Paine National Park and the Lake District — with a captivating landscape of hanging glaciers, magnificent fjords, pristine lakes, and jagged peaks. Yet this 41,000-square-mile swath in northern Patagonia — the least populated in Chile — remains largely unexplored by visitors, in part because of its topography. But now, several outfitters and organizations, including Chile’s Route of Parks , are developing more itineraries and ecotourism routes for the non-mountain-scaling adventure traveler, with less-daunting activities like kayaking, hiking, and biking. Not long ago, travel company Explora opened a lodge in Aysén’s Patagonia National Park (working with nonprofit Rewilding Chile to support conservation and educational efforts) and launched eight- to 12-day trips that make travel across the region convenient, with flights, accommodations, and activities included. Factor in loosened COVID-19 restrictions and a newly elected president (the country’s youngest in history) as additional reasons to go now. Then there’s the continually growing partnership between Delta Air Lines and Latam, which allows for mutual lounge access and easy nonstop flights from Atlanta, Los Angeles, Miami, and New York City to Santiago, which is just a short connecting hop from Coyhaique, the gateway to Aysén. — Alisha Prakash

The Hudson Valley, New York

Andre Maier

Yes, the stretch north of New York City and south of Albany, along the banks of the lordly Hudson River, has been attracting enterprising former urbanites — as well as savvy travelers in search of charming towns and idyllic countryside — for the past century or so. But its transition from quasi-rustic to quietly glam marks a new and intriguing chapter. Next summer, The Ranch Hudson Valley , an offshoot of the West Coast’s rigorous retreat The Ranch Malibu, will open on a grand estate built by financier J.P. Morgan (as a gift for his daughter’s marriage to Alexander Hamilton’s great-grandson) and will offer multi-day programs to revive weary New Yorkers. Meanwhile, Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resorts Collection , a property with 60 freestanding cabins and cottages, will highlight the pastoral side of the region, with a farm-to-table restaurant and 140 acres of orchards and wildflower gardens. The region’s reputation for top-notch cuisine continues with the upscale tavern fare at Merchants Social in Hudson and Stissing House in Pine Plains, the Southern-inflected Darlings in Tilson, and the sweet fantasia of the Catskills Chocolate Co. in Catskill. (Longtime cheesemongers Talbott and Arding have recently moved to a beautiful new space in Hudson, too.) But don’t forget to leave room for culture. In Catskill, Foreland is a self-billed kunsthalle that extends across three 19th-century mills with exhibition spaces and artist studios. And the beloved sculpture park Storm King Art Center is getting a $45-million overhaul that includes an extensive new visitors center. — Peter Terzian

Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia

Thomas Retterath/Getty Images

“Zambia is a destination so many people miss,” said travel advisor Leora Rothschild . “The country’s Lower Zambezi National Park is one of my favorite destinations anywhere. Having a safari on a river adds a dynamic element,” she notes, since being on the water offers a different perspective than travelers get while on a game drive or in camp. Among the best places to take in this wildlife-rich destination is at one of its newest lodges , the luxurious eight-suite Lolebezi , which African Bush Camps opened inside the park and on the banks of the river this past June. It’s an ideal base from which to explore Lower Zambezi, which sits opposite Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to what the agency calls its “ dramatic landscape ” and “huge herds of elephant and buffalo.” Though remote, this corner of Zambia has recently gotten a bit easier to access, as pandemic-era travel regulations have loosened. Air Botswana announced in May 2022 that, following a two-year hiatus, it would relaunch flights from Gaborone, Botswana to Lusaka, Zambia. — Samantha Falewée

Prince Edward Island, Canada

Tourism PEI/Sander Meurs

As Canada’s smallest province, Prince Edward Island might get overlooked in favor of the country’s bigger, badder destinations for outdoor thrills. But this tiny island — known to many as the setting of L.M. Montgomery’s beloved “Anne of Green Gables” series — packs a punch. Here, you’ll find rugged cliffs, red-sand beaches , and a surprisingly robust golf scene, with 27 courses. Perhaps the biggest draw for adventurous travelers right now is the Island Walk , a 435-mile trail that opened in 2021 . Tracing the entire coastline, it passes through dozens of small towns and fishing villages. Walkers can start and end at any point, but the entire loop would take about 32 days, assuming a pace of 12-15 miles a day. Not that you’ve got to be hardcore to enjoy the trail: Towns and villages along the route have plenty to offer even non-hikers, such as the relatively new Slaymaker & Nichols , a cozy inn and gastropub in Charlottetown, the provincial capital. Classic PEI experiences endure, such as the seafood-focused, multi-course “ culinary experience ” from celebrity chef Michael Smith at the Inn at Bay Fortune . — Liz Cantrell

Stephanie Vermillion

When high-speed internet was installed at the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak, this past August, it was just the latest example of the new era dawning in Tanzania. The leader of the country’s changing face is President Samia Suluhu Hassan, the first woman of color and the first Muslim to lead this country, who took office in 2021. “I never expected that one day I would be president,” President Hassan told PBS . Not that she’s wasting any time. Since taking power, she’s devoted herself to strengthening infrastructure, women’s businesses, education, health care — she received her COVID-19 vaccine on live television to encourage others to get immunized — and sustainable travel. This summer, the Usangu Expedition Camp in Ruaha National Park opened in partnership with the Tanzania National Parks Authority , and the Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute ; Selous Safari Company recently refreshed its six-suite private reserve on Fanjove Island, a jumping off point for “marine safaris” by dive boat or kayak. — Samantha Falewée

Uttar Pradesh, India

Luis Dafos/Getty Images

Pummeled by the pandemic, India suffered through a grim 20-month closure, only reopening to travelers at the end of 2021. However, at long last — and with COVID-19 cases now under control thanks to large-scale vaccination programs that have delivered more than 2 billion doses — 2023 is primed to be the year visitors return to this soul-stirring country in full force. While many travelers will opt for Rajasthan’s royal palaces and desert jewels, there’s good reason to discover Uttar Pradesh on your next trip. India’s fourth-largest state is home to classic attractions including the Taj Mahal, in Agra, and the Ganges River ghats of Varanasi, the nation’s holiest city. But the new draws here include Vana, a wellness retreat in the Himalayan foothills of Dehradun. The resort, which is now managed by the World’s Best Award–winning hospitality company Six Senses, has rooms and suites that prioritize the lush landscape with balconies and terraces overlooking the surrounding forest and gardens, offering a true breath of fresh air. — Alisha Prakash

For Beach Vibes

Patrick Michael Chin

Already a favorite weekend getaway for East Coasters, Bermuda will become even easier to get to in 2023. American Airlines resumed flights to the island from New York City's John F. Kennedy International in November, which the carrier had paused in the early days of the pandemic. Upon arrival at L.F. Wade International, travelers are now greeted in a new $400-million terminal with automated immigration gates and preclearance for U.S.-bound passengers — plus unexpected extras like a putting green and an outdoor nature trail. Bermuda’s resort stock is on the rise, too: Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa recently debuted a top-to-bottom renovation, adding villas and a Bermudian outpost of Sunken Harbor Club, the tropical cocktail bar above Brooklyn, New York’s wildly popular steakhouse Gage & Tollner. The St. Regis Bermuda is another high-end hotel option, which opened in 2021 with the nation’s first casino and incredible views of Fort St. Catherine. The island recently rolled back all COVID-19 entry requirements, but the Atlantic country’s  remote work program  — which launched in July 2020 and allows for stays up to one year — is still running for anyone looking to make its pink-sand beaches a new home base. — Liz Cantrell

Cayman Islands

Warren Fleming-Hollinger/Getty Images

It just keeps getting easier to visit the Caymans. As of fall 2022, Cayman Airways flies nonstop from Los Angeles International to Grand Cayman, the first direct route from the West Coast to the British territory. “Getting to Hawaii takes longer,” said Kenneth Bryan, Cayman Islands honorable minister for tourism and transport, in an interview with T+L. Wherever they’re flying in from, visitors will find plenty of new offerings along Seven Mile Beach, on Grand Cayman’s west shore. Chief among them is the freshly renovated Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman , which is now outfitted with a La Prairie Spa and Saint June restaurant, complete with a beachfront bar. (The property is thankfully still home to the long-running, annual Cayman Cookout .) For travelers who prefer heart-pumping adventure to pool- or beachside relaxation, the Caymans can deliver: Hiking reserves like the 100-year-old Mastic Trail on Grand Cayman or the Bluff on Cayman Brac may not be as well known as the islands’ beaches — but they should be. Meanwhile a growing art scene is beginning to draw international attention, thanks to shows at the well-established National Gallery of the Cayman Islands as well as the vibey, creative atmosphere at new hotels such as Palm Heights , as T+L recently reported . — Christine Burroni

Coastal Uruguay

© Tali Kimelman/Posada Ayana

The vast skies, empty beaches, and delicious food of Uruguay remain as alluring as they’ve ever been. Still, 2023 promises to be a breakout year for the country’s lowkey coastal destinations, thanks to an ever-growing art scene that adds a layer of culture to this already inviting stretch along the Southern Atlantic. Among the newest must-sees is the Atchugarry Museum of Contemporary Art in Punta del Este, a 90-acre campus which opened in early 2022. Also nearby is artist James Turrell’s “Ta Khut,” an experiential Skyspace that opened in late 2021 at Posada Ayana, a small hotel in José Ignacio. (The seaside village is also home to intriguing contemporary collections at three Vik Retreats properties, including Bahia Vik , with its oceanfront bungalows.) A short drive from José Ignacio, the village of Garzón has lately become a hub for multidisciplinary artists thanks to Campo , an incubator and non-profit that brings creatives to this still-rural corner of Uruguay. — Paul Brady

Lush mountains, bustling beach towns , and idyllic resorts make Guadeloupe the perfect place for adventurous travelers looking for something Caribbean but different. In recent years, though, it’s been difficult for U.S. travelers to reach this French overseas department — particularly after Norwegian ceased its nonstop flights to the destination in 2019. Now, things are looking up again, as JetBlue has relaunched its nonstop service from New York City to the gateway city of Pointe-à-Pitre in November 2022. SkyTeam faithfuls can also now get there on Air France, on nonstops from either Miami or New York; American Airlines also serves the archipelago from Miami. First-timers tend to focus on two of the islands, Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre, the latter of which is home to Guadeloupe National Park. (A local tour company such as Vert Intense can help with the logistics of seeing Carbet Falls and La Grande Soufrière volcano.) Accommodations tend away from big brand names, though — this being France — there is an all-inclusive, beachfront Club Med La Caravelle . Other well-regarded options include the remote, hillside Le Jardin Malanga Hotel , with its dramatic ocean views, or the cliffside villas of the boutique-y La Toubana Hotel & Spa , along the southern shore of Grande-Terre. — Christine Burroni

The Jersey Shore, New Jersey

William Laird

“The real thing is quite different from TV,” George Distefano told T+L. Now a hotelier, Distefano grew up on the Jersey Shore — and today is doing his part to change the narrative around the beloved summer destination. His latest project, The James Bradley , is a 17-room inn that opened in Bradley Beach in August 2022 and is aimed at a crowd that’s perhaps quieter, chicer, and altogether less interesting to MTV producers. In nearby Asbury Park , which has long been a barometer of development, openings of The Asbury Hotel and the Asbury Ocean Club and Residences signal the start of a bougier era. Even Atlantic City is now substantially more chic, after many casino resorts, including Bally’s , Caesars , and Ocean , used the pandemic-induced dip in visitors to undertake hundreds of millions of dollars in renovations. “The area as a whole has had a bit of a renaissance,” Distefano said. One telling indicator of where the Shore is headed next? A Nobu Hotel is slated to open on the boardwalk any day now. — Hannah Walhout

Maui, Hawaii

Hawaii has been in the midst of a multi-year rethink about how tourism impacts the state . “We seek to balance the economic vitality of our industry with the health of our natural environment and the well-being of our communities,” is how Hawaii Tourism Authority President and CEO John De Fries put it this past summer . On Maui, that balance has been struck recently in efforts to renovate and reimagine some of the island’s most popular resorts. The 54-acre Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua , to take one example, is finishing up a major overhaul that includes a reimagined aquatic complex (with three “zero-edge” swimming pools), an expanded Club Lounge , and programming that will include not just cocktail classes and cooking demonstrations but also lei making and musical performances by Hawaiian artists. On the southwest coast of the island, The Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort is in the midst of its own refresh of all 776 guest rooms and suites; some are, happily, already good to go. There’s other progress beyond hotels: e-bikes are now plentiful on Maui, thanks to a recent rule change that allows them on island roads. Companies like RideSmart Maui lend out wheels that make exploring a breeze, whether your interest lies in the historic sites of Lahaina or the beautiful beaches around Wailea. — John Wogan

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Courtesy of Chablé Hotels

This picturesque stretch of the Yucatán peninsula is in the midst of welcoming four marquee hotels. The Waldorf Astoria Cancun just opened, a brand-new build with 173 rooms and five dining venues all overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Casa Chablé and The St. Regis Kanai Resort are slated to open in early 2023, followed by the Riviera Maya Edition at Kanai in spring 2023. Not new but refreshed is Maroma, a Belmond Hotel , which will reopen in May 2023 after a year-long closure with 10 new oceanfront suites and Latin America's first Guerlain spa. Farther south, closer to Tulum, the ultra-luxurious Hotel Esencia has added a posh new 10,000-square-foot, four-bedroom mansion tricked out with fitness and screening rooms, an underground speakeasy, and three pools — the perfect thing for a friends’ getaway. Not that hotels are the only draw: The last section of the new Maya Train project, which connects Cancun and Tulum, is expected to open by the end of 2023 after delays to address environmental and archeological concerns . The route will make several cultural and historic sites , including Chichén Itzá, more accessible and connect travelers to other destinations in the state of Quintana Roo, including Bacalar, Playa del Carmen, and Puerto Morelos. Also on the horizon is the opening of the long-awaited Tulum airport, which Mexico’s President Andrés Manuel López Obrador said will be completed by the end of 2023. — Sarah Bruning

Riviera Nayarit, Mexico

Courtesy of Auberge Resorts Collection

Long a vacationer’s paradise, this section of Mexico’s Pacific coast between Puerto Vallarta and the beach town of San Blas is only getting better in the year ahead. The 59-room Susurros del Corazón , Auberge Resorts Collection, began welcoming guests in November 2022 with experiences that include an introduction to raicilla , a lesser-known agave spirit, and boating excursions in Islas Marietas, a national park known for its biodiversity. On its heels, Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort , which is the second tented camp property from the brand , will open in December 2022. Accommodating just 30 people at a time, the lush 48-acre property is making wellness a key focus, so guests can expect to unwind with options like a temascal ceremony and nocturnal forest bathing sessions. An extra incentive to go? JetBlue launched new nonstop flights from JFK to Puerto Vallarta International, which serves as the gateway to the region. — Sarah Bruning

U.S. Virgin Islands

Courtesy of USVI Department of Tourism; Jamie Aranoff

With no pandemic restrictions, no passport needed, and plenty of inbound flights, the U.S. Virgin Islands are challenging Bermuda for the title of easiest warm-weather getaway for East Coasters. What’s more, the islands just established a Territorial Park System Trust Fund Board which will protect and preserve attractions like St. Croix’s Great Salt Pond and St. John’s Oppenheimer Beach. Caribbean flavors are, once again, another reason to go: The King of the Wing competition on St. Thomas, which celebrates creative chicken cookery, is back after a two-year hiatus; the 23rd annual Taste of St. Croix festival, one of the largest culinary events in the region, happens in April. Carnival , which returned in 2022, will be another event to watch in the year ahead. St. Thomas celebrates from late April through early May with food fairs, pageants, and parades; St. John fetes from late June through July 4, concluding with an Independence Day bash; and St. Croix sparkles from mid-December through Three Kings Day with more traditional, Christmas-centric fanfare. — Jamie Aranoff

For a Look at the Future

This past September, Bhutan, the impossibly scenic country between India and China, reopened to tourists after 30 months. But that’s nothing compared to the 60 years it’s taken to redevelop the 250-mile Trans-Bhutan Trail , which also reopened that month. Once the only way to travel across the Himalayan kingdom, the ancient pilgrimage route is now one of Bhutan’s biggest draws, a must-see for hikers, bikers, and other outdoorsy types. The trail connects 400 historic sites, with museums, fortresses, and temples along the way — plus stunning natural scenery and seemingly endless views. As part of its reopening, Bhutan has ended its policy requiring visitors to be accompanied 24/7 by a guide; instead, the nation has implemented an increased tourism tax, or Sustainable Development Fee, which is intended to fund social and cultural programs, infrastructure improvements, and environmental conservation. (The $200-a-day charge, up from $65, is also deliberately expensive, in an effort to keep visitor numbers low.) On the hotel front, Six Senses opened its fifth and final Bhutan lodge, Six Senses Bumthang , in March 2020, but the eco hideaway tucked in a pine forest in the town of Jakar, of course, has only just become accessible to foreigners. — Alisha Prakash

Boten–Vientiane Railway, Laos

Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua via Getty Images

It’s not every day the world gets a new cross-country railroad. The ambitious Boten–Vientiane railway that stretches across Laos may have opened for business in late 2021, but now’s the time to jump aboard, as travel to Asia reopens to American visitors. The remarkable engineering project is one of many financed by China as part of the country’s Belt and Road Initiative that builds heavy infrastructure across Africa and Asia. In this case, the train has dramatically slashed travel times across the difficult-to-drive if strikingly beautiful landscapes of Laos: Trips that would’ve taken a full day by road can now be done in just a couple hours of train-carriage comfort, as T+L recently reported . The route runs from the northern border town of Boten to Luang Prabang, which is known for its many temples. It then continues on to Vang Vieng, a gateway to some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes, before arriving in the capital, Vientiane, on the border with Thailand. Intermediate stations will help open up to visitors parts of the country that haven’t historically benefited from tourism, as Ruben Derksen, director of product and digital at Bangkok-based tour operator Exo Travel , told T+L. In the years ahead, the 257-mile railway may become even more critical, as just one segment of a Singapore to Shanghai route that will make continent-spanning journeys not just possible, but pleasant. — Paul Brady

Kyoto, Japan

Rudy Sulgan/Getty Images

Kyoto is often thought of as the serene, slowed-down complement to go-go Tokyo. And, certainly, the former Japanese capital has its historic temples, gardens, and teahouses. But since Japan’s October 2022 reopening to independent travelers , this destination and its new draws demand fresh eyes. The city’s famous Gion Matsuri , or festival, is set to return in full force in July 2023 following a pandemic pause, with enormous floats and a wealth of food and drink offerings; the event, which was first held in 869, is said to be Japan’s biggest festival. In August, Kyoto celebrates Gozan Okuribi , a bonfire celebration visible across the city that marks the close of Obon, a festival honoring ancestors. New hotels abound, including hospitality group Banyan Tree’s 138-room Dhawa Yura Kyoto , located in the heart of the city. Another new option is Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto , with 25 rooms set amid lush greenery in front of Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also new — yet firmly rooted in the city’s history — is the recently opened Maana Kiyomizu , where visitors can spend the night in restored machiya , traditional wooden townhouses. Though Japan has only just reopened, it’s already getting even easier to get there, thanks to Delta Air Lines’ brand-new routes from Hawaii to Tokyo plus flights that resumed this fall from Los Angeles. — Alisha Prakash

New Zealand

Barry Tobin; Courtesy of Tourism New Zealand

After a stringent lockdown, New Zealand has at last dropped all travel restrictions. Happily, the country is becoming more accessible than ever, thanks to the nonstop flights between New York and Auckland that Air New Zealand launched in September. (That long haul has also gotten comfier, thanks to the airline’s Economy Skycouch seats.) Wondering if those 17 hours in the air will be worth it? Auckland continues to evolve with no shortage of dazzling new places to stay. The 99-room Hotel Britomart , lined in timber and exuding Zen calm, is at the heart of Auckland’s Britomart District, nine blocks of historic warehouses converted into shops and restaurants. Mawhiti Walheke is a luxurious modern guest pavilion on a vineyard-covered island a short ferry ride from the city. And New Zealand’s spectacular landscape finally has a showstopper of a property to match it: Flock Hill , a fully serviced four-bedroom villa on a sheep ranching station in the Southern Alps region of South Island. — Peter Terzian

Teahupo’o,Tahiti

© Gre goire Le Bacon

The village of Teahupo’o, on the southwestern coast of Tahiti, will take center stage during the 2024 Paris Olympics, despite being 9,800 miles from the French capital. But unless you’re planning to compete, the year ahead is the ideal time for a closer look at this part of French Polynesia, before the world’s attention turns to the South Pacific. Some of the incredible waves here rate among the most fearsome on the planet — hence the name Teahupo’o, which essentially means “wall of skulls” — while others are more rideable for those with some surfing experience. Accommodations such as Tahurai can organize coaching sessions, including some hosted by local surf icon Tereva David. Those more comfortable watching the waves than riding them can get on the water with tour companies such as Teahupo’o Tahiti Surfari , which takes visitors by boat to see the famous Teahupo’o swell, one of the highest and heaviest waves in the world, as well as waterfalls, lagoons, lava tubes, and cliff-diving spots around the island. Meanwhile, it’s gotten easier than ever to reach Tahiti, thanks to Delta Air Lines’ new nonstop flights from Los Angeles to Fa'a'ā International Airport. Air Tahiti Nui has also added connectivity, with the only nonstop flights between Seattle and Tahiti, which took off in October. — Jamie Aranoff

Victoria, British Columbia

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What does it look like for a city to meaningfully prioritize “sustainability,” a word that often ends up more “feel-good” than actually “do-good?” Victoria is maximizing its green impact, aiming to make all new buildings carbon neutral by 2025 and halve landfill waste by 2040. Admittedly, few travelers pick destinations based on zero-waste initiatives, but it’s easy to take an environmentally minded trip to Victoria — the city even has suggested “green travel” itineraries , capitalizing on the outdoor beauty of places like Goldstream Provincial Park, one of many green spaces on Vancouver Island. Visitors have their choice of carbon-neutral hotels, such as Inn at Laurel Point and Parkside Hotel & Spa , and can even do carbon-neutral fast food at Big Wheel Burger , Canada’s first such restaurant. Other eco-minded activities include e-biking along the Saanich Peninsula to seaside towns like Sidney — with stops at picturesque wineries or the Butchart Gardens along the way — or hopping aboard an orca-watching cruise with Eagle Wing Tours , which is, of course, part of 1% for the Planet . — Liz Cantrell

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Austria’s capital city may be old — like, Holy Roman Empire old — but 2023 will see neue life in this historic destination. The year ahead is the 150th anniversary of Vienna’s World’s Fair, and the celebrations include 12 months of cultural events. It’s also the 300th anniversary of the opening of the Belvedere , the palatial museum that’s mounting an art nouveau exhibit featuring 90 Gustav Klimt works in February. Adaptive reuse is also on trend here, and the recently opened Rosewood Vienna is but one example, set in a neoclassical building that was once a bank headquarters and, before that, an apartment building where Mozart lived. The now-reopened Reznicek is a contemporary gasthaus inside a 100-year-old inn; Grace ’s Michelin-starred fare is served in a refurbished wood-paneled café reminiscent of the ‘70s. Not that Vienna is only looking to the past: New initiatives have added 1,000 miles of bike paths, carsharing via WienMobil , a robust network of electric buses, and new development in the fast-growing Aspern neighborhood where every public space and street is named after a woman . Other new additions include Hotel Josefine , with its sultry Roaring ‘20s energy and Hotel Gilbert , with a greenery-cloaked façade and Scandi-inspired design. Nonstop flights from Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Newark, New York City, and Washington, D.C. are always an option but the most au courant way in may be the new Paris to Vienna Nightjet train , which runs three days a week, with private cabins with lie-flat beds and breakfast in the morning. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

Canada vs Japan: the ultimate dream ski destination

Whistler and Niseko are two of the most famed ski destinations on the planet – but which rules supreme?

We compare the ski resorts of Niseko (left) and Whistler (right)

Congratulations, you’ve saved up enough for a dream ski holiday . Now the question is, where do you spend it? 

For British skiers, two resorts nearly always top the charts: Whistler Blackcomb , in Canada, and Niseko , in Japan. Both have featured in countless ski films over the years, burnishing their already-legendary reputations, and are brilliant in their own way. But chances are a visit to either will blow your ski holiday budget for the season, especially when you factor in the cost of long-haul flights. 

So, if you can’t visit both of these dream destinations, which should you choose? 

Whistler Why go?

Famously the largest ski resort in North America, Whistler (or Whistler-Blackcomb, as the twin mountain is officially called) has 37 lifts, offering access to 8,171 acres of skiable terrain. There are over 200 named trails, but if you want to find the really good stuff, you’ll want to read between the coloured lines on the piste map. 

It’s the “in-bounds backcountry” – off-piste areas that are patrolled, and controlled for avalanches – that really makes Whistler special for passionate skiers. Scoring first tracks down Symphony Bowl on a powder day, or cutting through a “gladed” run, where the trees have been deliberately thinned out, is the stuff dreams are made of. 

The Whistler Peak 2 Peak gondola links Whistler Mountain's Roundhouse Lodge with Blackcomb Mountain's Rendezvous Lodge

There’s plenty of variety too. Iconic descents like Spanky’s Ladder or Stefan’s Chute, both above the treeline, are steep and technical. Easy greens like Sunset Boulevard, which winds its way through the woods on Blackcomb, will keep intermediates happy. The ski schools are among the best in the world with no language barriers between students and instructors, and there’s a ton of terrain that’s perfect for families. If your children are older, or you’re younger at heart, Whistler’s three giant snow parks are among the best freestyle facilities anywhere on the planet. 

The resort is also deservedly famous for its snow. Located in the coastal range, just a short drive north of Vancouver , its proximity to the Pacific means storms often dump their load here first, before heading inland to the resorts of the Rockies.

For reference, Whistler’s 10.8m average annual snowfall is roughly twice that of Tignes in France . 

If you’re used to stereotypically grumpy French waiters, North America’s strong service culture will come as a pleasant surprise – even if it takes you a while to get your head around when and how much to tip (if in doubt, the answer is lots, and all the time).

Whistler receives an average 10.8m of snowfall annually

On the hill, attentive lifties will pair parties up to minimise chairlift queues, while off the hill, smiling waiters will happily accede to requests for off-menu items. Public transport is impressive for a North American resort too – if you’re staying in Whistler village, you don’t need a car, which is unusual in this part of the world. 

Even before Vail Resorts bought out the previous owners in 2016 , Whistler had the unmistakable vibe of a company town. The lifts, ski schools, rental shops, plus the majority of the accommodation, bars and retail outlets have long been owned by a single corporation.

Ski instructors used to joke that they essentially worked for free, because the bulk of their paycheck went straight back to their employers’ pocket via a company-owned bar or restaurant.  To its critics Vail Resorts, which owns more than forty destinations throughout North America, is the McDonald’s of skiing – homogenising the skiing experience, and squashing individuality in the ski towns it owns. Independent businesses do exist, but they’re often left fighting over scraps.

Roundhouse Lodge, Whistler

You certainly won’t see many of the third-generation family-owned restaurants you’d find in French or Italian mountain towns, while on-mountain eating tends to be in massive, tray-and-shuffle cafeterias. There’s always a vast variety of cuisines available, but very little in the way of atmosphere.  Prices are pretty high in the village, and the pesky insistence on quoting them without tax only makes them seem more so. While Whistler is big by North American standards, it’s not that big in the grand scheme of things – the size of the mountain pales into significance compared to its equivalents in Europe for example.

The Paradiski area ( La Plagne-Les Arcs ), has more than 35,559 acres of skiable terrain, making it more than four-times the size of Whistler-Blackcomb. Pinch points at the base of both Whistler and Blackcomb mountains mean that queues can get pretty bad on busy days. And while this might not be a con for everyone, there are loads of Australians. 

The case for Niseko pretty much begins and ends with its snow – famously some of the most consistent, and deepest, on the planet. Whistler might benefit from being near to the Pacific Ocean, but Hokkaido, the northern island of Japan, is basically in it.

Cold winds from Siberia scoop up moisture from the Sea of Japan, which they then dump on the first obstacle they hit – the mountains around Niseko. The resort gets an incredible 15m of snowfall each winter on average. 

ski resort Hokkaido Japan

When I visited, it felt like the weather changed every 45 minutes, cycling through sun, light snow, to heavy blizzard, and back again. Tracks from the previous day – and sometimes even the previous run – were quickly covered up. 

Every morning, without fail, we had to dig out the steps of our chalet. Accommodation is either in shared chalets or, increasingly, in upmarket hotels. Renting a car will allow you to visit neighbouring resorts, which can be quite fun, but you don’t need one to get around Niseko itself.  The other great reason to visit Niseko is the culture – in particular, the food. Everything, from five course, sit-down meals to fast-food bites from petrol station warming counters, is tasty.

To British palettes at least, it’s also refreshingly different. Other cultural highlights include a visit to an onsen, or Japanese hot springs. The pools are sex-segregated, and while the obligatory nudity might feel strange at first, you quickly get used to it. 

Hokkaido Japanese Dinner Spread

Given the size of its reputation, you’ll probably be surprised by the reality of how small Niseko is. There are just a handful of lifts, and around 800 acres of skiable terrain – barely a tenth of Whistler’s. Like most Japanese resorts, the lift infrastructure was laid out in the late 70s and 80s, when skiing was booming, but the prolonged recession of the 90s means much of it has barely been touched since.  Many of the lifts are still old, small and slow, especially for those used to European high-speed chairs and gondolas. This means there are often queues, and you’re better off heading to nearby resorts like Moiwa or Rusutsu on weekends. There are great ski schools and decent beginner facilities in Niseko, but the sheer amount of snowfall – and the lack of clear, sunny days – means it’s not the easiest place to learn. Plus, unless you and your party are skiing at a level where powder is on the menu, the pleasures of this all-you-can-shred buffet will be wasted on you. 

Niseko in Japan

In a society that’s one of the most ethnically-homogenous of any developed nation (97.8 percent of Japan’s population are ethnically Japanese), Niseko is actually one of the least Japanese places in the country. Walk around the main resort and you’ll find plenty of foreign-owned bars and businesses. Although some people will appreciate the fact that you can get around without ever resorting to Google Translate, if you want a genuine Japanese cultural experience, you might want to try somewhere with, again, fewer Australians. 

The verdict

In some ways, the two resorts are quite similar: both have outsized reputations compared to their actual size. Both hold out the promise of incredible snow, and the chance to explore a completely different skiing culture. 

Whistler is bigger, arguably has better facilities, and is definitely easier to navigate as an English speaker. In the end though, the sheer quality and quantity of Niseko’s powder, the famed “Ja-pow” that people flock to ride in “Japan-uary” every year, tips the balance in Niseko’s favour. 

Niseko in Japan

The acreage of in-bounds terrain only really matters if you’re worried about it getting tracked out. But that’s never a problem in Niseko, where there’s a good chance your tracks will be covered within the hour. 

Part of the joy of skiing in different countries is experiencing a genuinely different skiing culture, and while the influx of Aussies means Niseko is perhaps not the undiluted Japanese experience it once was, it still beats Vail Resorts’ version of a North American ski town. 

How to ski in Whistler

Crystal Ski Holidays (0203 451 2821; crystal ski.co.uk ) offers seven nights at the four-star Aava Whistler Hotel (1 800 663 5644; paradoxhotels.com/aava-whistler ), from £1,600 per person, room only, including flights from London Heathrow to Vancouver and transfers, based on two sharing.

How to ski in Niseko

Mabey Ski (0 20 8144 5687; mabeyski.com ) offers seven nights at Aspect Luxury Apartments in Niseko from £1,395, room only, including six days skiing with a private guide, concierge service and transfers from New Chitose. Excludes flights, based on six sharing an apartment.

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The world's prettiest spring holiday destinations as chosen by tourists

A new study has unveiled the world's prettiest spring destinations with breathtaking blooms and fun traditions..

Spring is one of the best times of year to travel . Mild temperatures, fewer crowds and beautiful flowers are just a few of the reasons to holiday during spring.

A new study from the team at DiscoverCars.com has found the world's prettiest spring destinations, based on the number of Instagram spring hashtags for each holiday hotspot.

While some of the destinations are a long flight away from the UK, Britons won't always need to travel far to enjoy spring.

If you're planning to stay in the UK, why not check out The National Trust's best places to see spring blossom?

Have you got a favourite spring holiday destination? Share with us in the comments.

Jacaranda trees

10. Australia

Spring in Australia doesn't happen until September so British tourists still have time to book a long-haul trip this year to see some blooms. Jacaranda trees, with their purple blooms, are one of the country's most popular spring blooms. However, the trees are actually an invasive species although many Australians see them as a sign that summer is on the way. 

Flowers in Finland

Finland was one of Europe's prettiest places to enjoy spring. While it's still possible to ski in Lapland during spring, the southern regions of the country come out in bloom. Finland is one of Europe's best destinations for nature as it's the continent's most forested country.

Agapanthus flowers

8. New Zealand

New Zealand's spring also occurs towards the end of the year, kicking off in September. The country has some fantastic blooms to spot with wild lupins usually emerging at the end of spring. Agapanthus bloom along the roadside and at coastal spots making for a particularly pretty spring experience. 

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Turkey flowers

Spring is a beautiful time of year to explore Turkey. The country is relatively quiet compared to the summer season but temperatures are starting to heat up. Istanbul hosts a Tulip Festival in spring and it's much quieter than Amsterdam's event. Elsewhere, blooms start to pop up all over the country in an array of bright colours. 

Singapore

6. Singapore 

Singapore doesn't tend to have marked seasons like the UK and instead has a dry and wet season. Nevertheless, the country is one of the world's favourite places to see flowers. The green city centre has blooms all over while tourists can see fantastic plant displays at Marina Bay Sands. 

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Is it too late to book my spring break trip? 4 things to know about pricing, destinations

holiday travel destinations

With the holiday craze behind us but summer still feeling so far away, travelers have a glimmer of hope in the spring. Many are itching to get away during spring break.

This year, more spring breakers are looking for adventure, like scuba diving or hiking in places like Australia, Peru or Costa Rica, according to travel insurance platform Squaremouth’s recent press release.  

Also influencing spring break travelers? Social media influencers and set-jetting –  visiting the locales of their favorite shows or movies – CEO of HotelPlanner Tim Hentschel told USA TODAY. Think Italy following the latest “White Lotus” season. 

“The typical spring break has changed … now you’re seeing record demand for parks and destinations for giving back (with volunteer work),” Hentschel said. However, affordability and price are also top of mind for most Americans hoping to book a spring break trip this year, according to Hopper’s 2024 Spring Break Travel Outlook . 

There’s some good news for travelers: prices won’t be too bad if you book strategically. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Here are four things you need to know about spring break travel for 2024:

1. Prices have plateaued

This year, spring breakers are in luck. Both domestic and international round-trip airfare are cheaper than last year, according to Hopper. Flights to Europe have gone down by 7% to an average of $640 and flights to Mexico and Central America dropped by 11% for an average of $447. 

Although demand for spring break travel is up, prices won’t be too high as there’s enough supply to go around, Hentschel said. 

“They’re not paying more than what they paid last year,” Hentschel said. 

Where travelers will have to fork up is accommodations, especially during peak weekends. In the U.S., the average nightly hotel rate over spring break is $242. South of the border in Cancun, Mexico, hotel rates average $339 per night, and in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, the average nightly rate is nearly $500. Across the pond in London, hotels are averaging $440 per night. 

◾ Spring break hack: Start your weeklong vacation midweek instead of the weekend to save as much as $150 on a domestic roundtrip airfare, Hopper recommended. Trips that start or end on a Tuesday or Wednesday can be up to 38% cheaper than Saturday or Sunday travel. 

2. Am I too late to book my spring break trip?

Whether domestic or international, airfare should be booked one to two months in advance for the best price. 

When it comes to hotels, especially in coveted vacation destinations, “you get your best deals when you can book 30 days in advance,” Hentschel said. 

Those who are more flexible on where they’re going can hold off a bit. According to Hopper, travelers who are basing their trip on price point rather than the hotel amenities or destination itself can wait between 10 and 14 days before check-in to get the best deals. 

◾ Spring break travel hack: Purchase travel insurance within one to two weeks of making your initial trip payment for the best coverage. “Buying earlier opens up the door to time-sensitive travel insurance benefits,” said James Clark from Squaremouth. “It really maximizes the amount of benefits to you as well.” These often include the ability to cancel your trip for any reason or preexisting conditions waivers.

3. Most popular spring break destinations 

According to Hopper, here are the most popular spring break destinations:

◾ Orlando, Florida: $205 average airfare, $175 average hotel rate

◾ Las Vegas: $295 average airfare, $178 average hotel rate

◾ Miami: $251 average airfare, $339 average hotel rate

◾ Fort Lauderdale, Florida: $216 average airfare, $288 average hotel rate

◾ Nashville, Tennessee: $186 average airfare, $257 average hotel rate

International:

◾ Cancun: $403 average airfare, $339 average hotel rate

◾ London - $643 average airfare, $440 average hotel rate

◾ Punta Cana: $466 average airfare, $477 average hotel rate

◾ Los Cabos, Mexico: $431 average airfare, $431 average hotel rate

◾ Tokyo - $1,368 average airfare, $351 average hotel rate

Cancun without the crowds: Meet Isla Mujeres, a quieter Mexican getaway

4. Cheap spring break destinations to consider 

“I know everyone wants to go to Italy nowadays, but you can easily fit in multiple trips to these budget-friendly destinations for about the same cost that you can go to Europe,” Clark said. “I think people need to think about if they want to go on one big trip or multiple little trips.”

For some cheaper beach destinations, trade Cancun for Jamaica, and Puerto Rico for the Dominican Republic. Consider replacing Miami or Fort Lauderdale for Tampa. 

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

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9 Of The Best Queer-Friendly Holiday Destinations

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Sydney, Australia 

Wagga wagga, australia, são paulo, brazil, new york city, united states, mykonos, greece  , barcelona, spain  , bangkok, thailand, berlin, germany, reykjavík, iceland, more from travel.

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