From the sun-baked beaches of Montenegro in Balkans to the family-run wineries and fruit farms of Galilee in Israel, we bring to you the ultimate 2023 bucket-list you just can’t miss out on.
The year 2023 is all about finding new alternatives to old classics. Whether you have been chasing highland hospitality, looking for coastal comradery, or exploring options to get your adrenaline pumping, there are newer, lesser-explored destinations and experiences cropping up all around the world, and we are all for it! Brace yourself, we have our run-down of 23 destinations ready for your 2023 wish list.
23 best destinations to travel to in 2023
British Columbia, Canada
Thanks to its mighty mountains, deep forests, and dramatic coastlines, it isn’t difficult to wax lyrical about the westernmost province of Canada. The great outdoors are always calling you in British Columbia, so make sure to cross off all the obvious picks — go skiing or hiking around the jagged Canadian Rockies, visit its sprawling national parks, explore the storm-battered islands of Haida Gwaii, go kayaking on Chilko Lake, and have indigenous-led experiences in ancestral villages.
Marrakech, Morocco
Colourful and chaotic, Marrakech brings the cultural extraordinaire to the list! This Moroccan dreamland is the perfect place to stroll through the enticing labyrinth of centuries-old souks, taste the exotic mix of African, Middle Eastern, and European cuisines, and experience the spiritual and architectural richness of the Medina. A day trip to the ancient coastal trading port of Essaouira, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must if you wish to visit ancient stone battlements and markets famed for the Thuya wood crafts. Unwind after a long day at one of the palm-lined pools at a local riad or a traditional hammam.
Naoshima, Japan
Skip overcrowded Tokyo and Kyoto this time, and head straight to Naoshima for a much slower, more indigenous experience in Japan. Home to the famed Benesse Art Site, the island offers a unique opportunity to see some of the country’s best contemporary art in gorgeous natural settings. Check out the world-class art galleries, museums, and outdoor installations including the iconic Yellow Pumpkin sculpture by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, the Chichu Art Museum, The Oval at Benesse House, and Tadao Ando’s new Valley Gallery Art Site.
Pelion, Greece
Pelion is often overlooked by travellers on their big Greek vacation, due to much popular islands of Santorini and Mykonos. But this mountainous peninsula on the mainland Greece is blessed with some of the most gorgeous beaches, forested hills, ancient monasteries, and rustic stone-houses. Spend your days driving along the coastal routes, and exploring this secret stretch of coast with sleepy fishing villages and deserted beaches.
Arittapatti, Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu’s first and India’s 35th Biodiversity Heritage Site, Arittapatti is your ideal escape down south in India for a unique landscape and countless natural wonders. The rocky hills of this quaint village in Madurai is home to 72 lakes, 200 natural springs, three reservoirs, and over 250 species of birds, making it a paradise for birding and wildlife enthusiasts. What’s more? There are megalithic structures and rock-cut temples that date back 2,000 years!
Galilee, Israel
If you plan on visiting Tel Aviv in 2023, make some time to drive north to Galilee. Filled with fruit farms, ancestral wineries, and organic dairies, the region has many places to kick back. Stunning beaches, camping grounds, cycling trails, and walking tracks are aplenty, while a lush green landscape runs constant in the backdrop. There’s a series of boutique stays to pick from, while olive groves, vineyards, and orchards make the perfect setting for elaborate brunches of local cuisine, wines, and artisanal cheeses.
Hanle, Ladakh
Located by the banks of an Hanle River on the ancient Ladakh-Tibet trade route, Hanle promises many a glittering starry night. For the picturesque hamlet is homr to India’s first ever dark sky reserve, which will be operational by early 2023. Situated 4,500 metres above sea level as part of the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, the dark sky sanctuary would aim at promoting proper illumination as and when needed, without wasting energy or polluting other areas, especially during the night sky. Other than that, Hanle is also home to the site of the 17th-century eponymous monastery of the Drukpa Kagyu branch of Tibetan Buddhism.
Perth, Australia
Life unfolds at leisure under a constant blue sky in Perth. Way out west in the Indian Ocean, the city features superb beaches, a booming small-bar and street-art scenes, and a laidback vibe. Sail, surf, and slow down with great global food and excellent wines amidst quaint Victorian architectures. The remoteness of nearby islands with white sandy beaches (think Rottnest Island) and liveliness of ports and art galleries bring together the perfect balance!
Antalya, Turkey
Antalya is no more a mere gateway to Turkish Riviera. Tucked on the Gulf of Antalya, the largest city on Turkey’s western Mediterranean coastline is both classically beautiful and stylishly modern. Visit the wonderfully preserved old-city district of Kaleiçi for the finely-restored Ottoman houses along its winding lanes. Yivli Minare mosque, Hadrian’s Gate, Roman Harbour, and the Antalya Museum are must-visit.
Biarritz, France
If your vacation style includes basking in the sun, surfing along the coasts, and appreciating local art, find your way to Biarritz. This chic seaside town on France’s Basque Coast is half ritzy coastal resort and half summer surfers’ hang-out! Go for long coastal walks in search for hidden sandy spots, ride the waves at Europe’s first surf beach, Côte des Basques, and gawk at dramatic cliff sceneries. There are historic wonders and heritage buildings all around this charming little town, making sure you get to stroll idly for hours.
Mustang, Nepal
If you thought Nepal is limited to just deep-rooted spirituality, you need to revisit this Himalayan dreamland. Bookmark the former Buddhist kingdom of Mustang, stretching north from the Annapurna mountain range, one of the most dramatic and exotic corners of the country. Stunning landscapes, timeless villages, wind-eroded Buddhist chortens (stupas), and trekking trails to sky-piercing peaks make Mustang a great Himalayan adventure. The new year is also bringing along a stunning lineup of first-rate boutique hotels and upscale mountain resorts offering traditional wellness programs, guided excursions, and local experiences!
Jeypore, Odisha
Odisha still lies low on the radar when it comes to top Indian destinations, but the state rewards the ones who choose to go beyond the beaten tracks, with incredible historical sites, fascinating tribal culture, and abundant natural beauty. Skip the urban strongholds and arrive at Jeypore, where hidden caves, roaring falls, and deep forestlands dominate the landscape. The Nakti Dangar hill of Pangi Forest Reserve here is soon to have a designated trail route, where travellers would get to navigate through the wilderness at a height of 4,600 feet. There are also ancient cave temples, forgotten forts, and villages inhabiting tribal communities that you can explore.
Ollantaytambo, Peru
Best known for its two massive Inca ruins, the quaint village of Ollantaytambo is Peru’s best-kept secret. Its narrow cobblestone streets have been continuously inhabited since the 13th century, while a new era of Andean food and drink traditions is placing it as a thriving culinary destination. Hike up the Pinkulluna or Inca Quarry for magnificent views, visit the mmodern colonial-style church of Iglesia de Ollantaytambo, and of course, find your pick from local rums, Andean coffee, and craft beer. If you are looking for some added adventure, sleep in a cliff-hanging capsule at the Skylodge Adventure Suites!
Montenegro, Balkans
Rightfully revelling in the spotlight, Montenegro is definitely one of the most sought-after destinations this year. Brimming with majestic mountains, breathtaking beaches, and larger-than-life locals, this charming country in the Balkans comes in a small package loaded with surprises. Count on the Bay of Kotor for dreamy seaside sceneries of medieval towns, monasteries, and sprawling national parks scattered around the bay. The rugged mountains of Durmitor and Prokletije and the primeval forest of Biogradska Gora are perfect if you wish to skip the crowds, while the St. George Island, featuring a monastery from the 12th century and the old graveyard for the old nobility from Perast, guarantees a trip back in time.
Puglia, Italy
Puglia, set in the ‘boot’ of Italy, knows how to stand out with its sun-baked beaches, traditional Trullo houses, and rolling hills. There are ancient towns heavy with the tangible past, extravagant churches by Europe’s finest architects, and cultures engraved in stone, gold and marble. Visit the UNESCO-listed Alberobello town for its fairytale scenery, heritage, and the dramatic rocky coastline of Salento that looks like it has been pulled out straight from a picture-perfect postcard.
Paso Robles, California
Paso Robles, in simplest words, is laidback with luxuries. Escape to the majestic oak-dotted hills of this wine country for the perfect weekend getaway in California. It’s where world-class farm-to-table dining meets small-town cowboy charm and boasts endless lodging options, from historic inns and luxury resorts to rustic vineyards. Savour boutique wines, relax in natural hot springs, and take a day-long bike ride through rolling vineyards under the brilliant California sun.
Tons Valley, Uttarakhand
Most of Uttarakhand remains flocked almost the entire year with trekkers taking the same old routes and exploring the done-to-death sites. The lesser-explored Tons Valley, however, offers a rich variety of experiences that blend exciting adventure and immersive culture for the intrepid traveller. Trust Tons Trails, a social enterprise promoting sustainable travel experiences in the region, to organise the best trail as per your interest — pick from walking and camping with local herders, living like a high-altitude nomad, and visiting Supin and Rupin valleys in the Upper Tons Valley. Don’t forget to get your hands on fresh apples and kidney beans from the Tons Shop as souvenirs.
Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Forgoing the glitz and glamour that Dubai is so famous for, neighbouring Sharjah picks to keep it more subtle and focus on culture and history. If you can do your vacation with your favourite cocktails (alcohol is prohibited), fix up Sharjah as your next pick to explore some of the most striking museums and art galleries including the restored Sharjah Architecture Triennial and the Mleiha Archaeological Site. The Sharjah Biennial will also celebrate its 30th anniversary with new galleries and works from over 150 artists from 70 countries.
Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico
Palm-fringed beaches, spicy cuisine, steamy jungles, teeming cities, and exotic culture — Mexico delivers to your wildest of vivid dreams. The Yucatán Peninsula takes it up a notch by giving you ancient Maya ruins, azure Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico waters, and colonial cities all under a single roof. Head west till you hit the capital of Yucatán state, Mérida, where colonial architecture, sublime cenotes or freshwater springs, and contemporary restaurants promise to slow the time down for you.
Kuno, Madhya Pradesh
Tigers are probably the biggest draw when it comes to the very centre of India, but in 2023, come here to meet the elusive cheetahs. Kuno National Park, nestled in the lap of the Vindhyas mountain range in Madhya Pradesh, recently became home to Namibian cheetahs that have made a comeback after seven long decades of extinction from the Indian soil. The state’s tourism board is gearing up to begin safaris where you can spot these glorious beasts roaming free in their natural home!
Zamora, Spain
Mark Zamora on your travel map for Romanesque architecture, dazzling lakes, and picturesque villages. This Spanish city in Castella-León preserves in its old town an important legacy of Romanesque art, which has earned it the title of UNESCO’s European World Heritage Site for 2023. Set on the banks of the Duero River and right on the Via de la Plata (Silver Road) route, the province reminds you of its medieval past through walls, palaces, and churches. Lagunas de Villafáfila, its collection of lakes, are home to thousands of migratory birds each season, while Puebla de Sanabria is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain.
Siem Reap, Cambodia
The world has Angkor Wat and the other Angkorian temples on its list, but there is so much more to Siem Reap. Reinvented as the epicentre of chic Cambodia, it is home to backpacker party pads, hip hotels, holistic spas, and plenty of wining and dining options. Do not rush through it though. Take your own sweet time to explore these ancient temple complexes, the Angkor Museum, French-style houses, the intricate carved statues of Banteay Srei, and the Khmer culture.
Svalbard, Norway
Svalbard is your white winter dream come true. Midway between Norway and the North Pole, this remote Norwegian Arctic island is home to extreme climate, dramatic glaciers, and snow-drowned peaks. There are forbidding icebergs to feast your eyes on, and wildlife encounters with polar bears, walruses, Arctic foxes, seals, and reindeer to keep you on edge at all times. Boat trips, cruises, glacier hikes, and expeditions by snowmobile or led by a pack of huskies — options to explore this Arctic wonderland are surprisingly endless.
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