BEST VACATION TRENDS 2023: TOP DESTINATIONS AND ACTIVITIES

Attention travel enthusiasts!

 

After two years of pandemic-related challenges, travel restrictions, and remote work, 2023 marks the revival of travel freedom. According to the Economist Intelligence Unit's (EIU) tourism guide for 2023, global tourism is projected to increase by 30% compared to 2022. Despite the looming economic downturn, the upcoming travel trends for 2023 indicate that travelers will be willing to spend more on experiential journeys to relax, dine, and engage with enriching new cultures and environments.

Exciting Travel Trends for 2023: Find Inspiration Below

1. Unconventional Travel Experiences
 

Embark on a journey along the Victorian Heritage Trail in Scotland, which includes a visit to Balmoral Castle. This Scottish retreat holds a special place in the hearts of the Royal Family and was acquired by Prince Albert in 1852 as a holiday home for Queen Victoria. | Photo credit: Rico Meier via Unsplash

Hidden gems around the globe offer unique cultural encounters for adventurous explorers. While popular destinations like Paris, Venice, or London still hold significant appeal, expanding your horizons to lesser-known European locales promises an immersive vacation.

 The truth is, offbeat travel is accessible to everyone. The world is brimming with extraordinary destinations waiting to be discovered. All it takes is a step outside your comfort zone and a courageous spirit. Approach each experience with an open mind, whether it's indulging in Thailand's vibrant street food culture or witnessing the Ganga Aarti ceremony in Varanasi, India. 

2. Transformative Wellness Retreats

 Our daily routines and work pressures often result in undue stress. The constant use of digital devices further exacerbates health issues, including sleep disorders, anxiety, and depression. Wellness retreats offer an opportunity for travelers to unwind and engage in various self-care practices, ranging from yoga and Ayurvedic treatments to silent meditation and breathing exercises. Picture yourself in serene locations like Kerala, India, or Bali, Indonesia, where these retreats offer not only rejuvenation but also unique gastronomic experiences featuring herbal, vegan, and organic cuisine. By choosing wellness retreats that cater to small groups, you can also connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for a healthy lifestyle. With ample rest, relaxation, a carefully curated wellness program, and the chance to forge new connections, you'll feel revitalized and ready to conquer the world!

3. Cruising Adventures

With many countries reopening borders and easing travel restrictions, cruise enthusiasts are in for a treat as cruises make a grand comeback in 2023! Cruise vacations, such as those offered by Royal Caribbean Spectrum of the Seas, provide an affordable way to visit multiple destinations, making up for lost time during the pandemic. They also offer an incredible opportunity for families and friends to travel together.

Cruises provide excellent value for your money, offering entertainment, delectable cuisine, exciting onboard activities, and shopping opportunities. Without the need to worry about expensive flights or the hassle of booking multiple hotels, cruising becomes an enticing option.

4. Immersive Explorations

In recent years, immersive travel has gained popularity among modern adventurers. Contemporary travelers seek experiences that go beyond mere sightseeing, craving opportunities to learn about new cultures, history, languages, traditional cuisine, and the world we inhabit.

Whether you're a solo explorer, a family vacationer, or a budget traveler, embarking on educational tours through the Irish countryside offers a chance to delve into the history of ancient castles, experience Irish hospitality, and even learn a few words of Gaelic while having a blast!

5. Traveling Alone
 

The Netherlands, a country known for its happiness, is a fantastic destination for individuals who are venturing out on their own for the first time. With excellent public transportation and friendly locals, it offers ideal conditions for solo travelers. | Photo Credit: Thomas Bormans via Unsplash

 Embarking on international journeys alone is a dream fulfilled for many individuals who are single. Nowadays, even senior travelers, women, and married couples without their partners are embracing the trend of solo travel.

 Traveling alone provides an exceptional opportunity to disconnect digitally. It enables you to fully immerse yourself in new surroundings and establish global connections with people from diverse cultural and historical backgrounds. Whether you choose to embark on a solitary adventure to a single destination or explore multiple holiday spots, you have the freedom to discover the world at your own pace, gain self-assurance, and ultimately rediscover yourself.

 If wanderlust has taken hold of you, there is only one cure—start planning your trip right away! Take the lead in organizing your travel plans with our top holiday ideas for 2023.

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Epic Places to Check Off Your Bucket List
Underrated Travel Destinations for 2023

1. NICARAGUA
 

The cathedral of León, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases the architectural transition from Baroque to Neoclassical styles in Nicaraguan history. | Photo Credit: Nicaraguan Tourism Board via Expedia

 Nicaragua, with its white sandy beaches, unique Spanish-colonial towns, and volcanic landscapes, is one of the most diverse countries in Central America.

 Top Attractions: Beach enthusiasts will be drawn to the pristine sandy beaches of San Juan Del Sur. In addition to vibrant nightlife and beach bars, this bustling fishing village is renowned for its delightful cuisine, featuring popular Latin restaurants and fresh seafood.

 Venture to Leon and leisurely explore this charming Baroque city, home to the famous white Cathedral-Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary—the largest cathedral in Central America. Enhance your culinary skills by participating in a Nicaraguan cooking class in the city, where you can learn to master the art of preparing Gallo Pinto (Nicaragua's national dish of rice and black or red beans) or Carne Asada (Nicaraguan grilled and sliced steak).

 History enthusiasts will find pleasure in exploring Managua, the capital of Nicaragua, which is filled with museums housing pre-Columbian artifacts and other historically significant buildings. Since Nicaragua boasts numerous volcanoes, you can embark on a guided one-day volcano sunset hike and witness the stunning sunset from the summit.

 Recommended for: Couples seeking a romantic beach getaway and families who have an affinity for Latin American culture, cuisine, and adventure.

 Best Time to Visit: The period between November and April offers sunny days, making it ideal for adventure and beach travelers. However, those seeking a beach vacation should avoid the rainy season from May to October.

 2. ALBANIA

The stone and alabaster houses of Berat, nestled at the base of the pine-forest-covered Tomorr Mountain, were once believed to be gigantic.

Apart from Southeast Asia, Albania has recently captured the attention of travelers as an affordable and underrated holiday destination. Despite being the smallest country in Europe (smaller than the Indian state of Kerala!), Albania's crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, rich history and culture, and breathtaking mountain peaks are all worth including in your 2023 travel bucket list.

Key attractions: Discover BunkArt, an underground structure from the communist era in Tirana, the capital city, now transformed into a museum dedicated to the Cold War. Walking through the extensive, dimly lit tunnels and eerie chambers of this five-story bunker serves as a stark reminder of the somber period of communism. Inside, you can delve deeper into the life and dictatorship of Enver Hoxha by listening to his voice on a continuous loop through the telephone receiver. Exploring the military liaison room and the chief of staff's room is also a notable feature of the bunker, designed to safeguard the dictator and his comrades from a potential nuclear attack. As the European Youth Capital 2022, Tirana stands as a vibrant city that particularly appeals to young solo travelers.

For a relaxing day, head to Berat, known as the "City of A Thousand Windows." This magnificent city, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, captivates visitors with its picturesque Ottoman houses perched on white hillsides along a charming riverside, as well as its superb dining options. Make sure to visit Berat Castle, an impressive fortress adorned with Byzantine churches and remarkable Ottoman mosques, where you can savor the breathtaking panoramic view of the city from its compound. Indulge in a delightful lunch on the terrace balcony of Antigoni Restaurant, offering an astonishing vista of Berat's mountaintop dwellings and the adjacent riverside promenade.

Ksamil Islands are a haven for enthusiasts of island life. This charming coastal town in southern Albania is nestled within the boundaries of Butrint National Park, which boasts archaeological sites influenced by the Greeks, Romans, Venetians, and Ottomans.

The Sanctuary of Asclepius, dedicated to the God of Medicine, holds a significant position in Butrint due to its sacred waters. Presently, visitors can witness the remnants of the earliest sanctuary, consisting of a temple honoring the god, a covered walkway, and a treasury where offerings were made.

Embark on a guided tour from Ksamil to 'Blue Eye,' a natural freshwater spring, and marvel at the crystal-clear, light blue waters that extend 50 meters deep into the depths. The dense forests and invigorating air surrounding the area enhance the charm of this natural paradise.

Recommended visitors: Budget-conscious solo travelers, honeymooning couples, and nature or island enthusiasts.

Ideal time to visit: April to June or September to October is an excellent period to explore the Balkans' gem, allowing for sightseeing, engaging in water sports, and unwinding by the beach.

Wellness Travel Destinations 2023

1.      KERALA, INDIA

 Unwind on a serene private boathouse cruise through the breathtaking Alleppey backwaters in Kerala while enjoying refreshing coconut water. | Photo Credit: Abhishek Prasad via Unsplash

Kerala, known as God's own country, is globally renowned as a premier wellness destination for Ayurvedic healing. The New York Times has recognized it as the 13th must-visit place in 2023. This southern Indian state is celebrated for its picturesque backwaters, verdant coconut trees, tranquil beaches, and captivating culture and cuisine.

 Key attractions: Embark on a delightful boat excursion along the mesmerizing Alleppey backwaters for ultimate relaxation. Visit Kumarakom, which is renowned for its luxurious Ayurvedic wellness treatments tailored to address your specific health needs. If you seek a secluded and rustic village ambiance to destress, Kairali in the Palakkad district offers a distinctive wellness experience, where you can practice yoga asanas amidst a jungle setting, serenaded by the harmonious calls of early-morning birds. Embrace the Ayurvedic way of life through meditation and a wholesome vegetarian diet to achieve dosha equilibrium.

 Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Kerala by attending captivating performances such as Kalaripayattu, an ancient Indian martial art, or being captivated by the enchanting Kathakali dance that reflects the state's history and traditional artistry. A visit to Kerala would be incomplete without experiencing temple festivals like the Vaikathashtami festival, which provides an opportunity to witness village life and connect with the local community.

Recommended visitors: Transformative wellness travel is open to EVERYONE - young adults, families, seniors, and solo travelers, as health is now considered the true wealth.

Best time to visit: The summer season (late March to June) is an ideal time to explore Kerala and avoid the peak tourist influx. Alternatively, September to November offers pleasant weather for indulging in backwater cruises, wellness treatments, and participating in vibrant cultural and religious celebrations, such as the lively and mysterious Ganesha Chaturthi immersion procession.

2. BHUTAN, THE HIMALAYAS
 

Embarking on a trek to the renowned landmark of Bhutan, Paro Taktsang, covers a distance of approximately 6 km and typically takes around three to five hours to complete. | Photo Credit: Aaron Santelices via Unsplash

Bhutan, a secluded Himalayan paradise adorned with vibrant prayer flags, monasteries clinging to cliff edges, resonating chants of monks, and invigorating mountain air, establishes itself as an awe-inspiring sanctuary for spiritual rejuvenation, earning the epithet of the "Land of the Thunder Dragon."

 Key attractions: Immerse yourself in a mindful living program that encompasses yoga sessions, meditation practices guided by Buddhist monks, and the indulgence of a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath. You can also partake in archery and sample authentic Bhutanese delicacies like Ema Datshi. Ascend the hillside to discover peace and tranquility at the grand Buddha Dordenma Statue. This remarkable architectural marvel houses an astounding 125,000 Buddha statues, encircling the majestic centerpiece. A visit to Bhutan would be incomplete without embarking on a pilgrimage to the ancient Paro Taktsang, also known as the "Tiger's Nest" Monastery. This sacred Buddhist site holds great historical and spiritual significance, as it was here that Guru Rinpoche, the first monk to propagate Buddhism in Bhutan, unveiled the Mandala of Pelchen Dorje Phurpa (a symbolic representation of a perfect Buddhist universe) and imparted spiritual teachings to his disciples.

 Recommended visitors: Solo travelers, couples, and mature travelers seeking a transformative journey of self-discovery and spiritual renewal. Bhutan also offers exceptional adventure tour experiences such as whitewater rafting and rock climbing.

 Best time to visit: The spring season, from March to May, offers ideal conditions with clear skies, blossoming flowers, and verdant Himalayan valleys that create a perfect setting for hiking.

Top Cruise Destinations for 2023

1. JAPAN & KOREA 

 

Relax on the deck and bask in the sun while enjoying the breathtaking ocean vista aboard Princess Cruises, offering a unique family cruise experience. | Photo Credit: princess.com 

Cruise lines like Princess Cruises provide excellent value for money, allowing you to explore multiple destinations and more through attractive package deals. On a Japan-Korea cruise, you'll be entertained by world-class Broadway-style shows, exciting casino gaming, rejuvenating spa facilities, and a tantalizing array of international cuisine. In addition to the stunning ocean views, many cruise operators offer opportunities for travelers to disembark at renowned ports along the journey.

 Key attractions: In Beppu, visit the awe-inspiring hot springs known as the Hells of Beppu. While bathing is not permitted in these hot springs, they are a popular stop for travelers seeking picturesque views of the onsen resort town. You can still enjoy mud baths or traditional stone baths at any of the onsen spas in Beppu. Before leaving Beppu, don't miss the chance to savor some Beppu Karaage Chicken and visit Tomonaga Panya, a legendary Japanese bakery known for its signature wanchan bun (doggie bun). Join the locals in line to taste this delightful bun filled with custard cream and topped with raisins. Alternatively, choose from a wide selection of freshly-baked bread and pastries from the bakery's extensive English menu.

Jeju, the largest volcanic island in Korea, is another captivating destination. Nature enthusiasts will delight in hiking up Mount Hallasan, the highest peak in Korea, where they can witness large crater lakes and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the entire island. Family travelers should not miss the Teddy Bear Museum, which showcases teddy bear displays featuring famous historical figures like the Mona Lisa and Napoleon Bonaparte.

Recommended visitors: Family travelers seeking a multi-country holiday, as well as solo travelers and couples in search of a once-in-a-lifetime Asian cruise experience.

Best time for cruising: The ideal time for cruise trips to Japan or Korea is from March to April to witness the blooming cherry blossoms, or from October to November during the enchanting autumn season.

2. ICELAND & IRELAND

Engage in an advanced laser tag game aboard the luxurious Royal Caribbean Cruise Line | Credit: royalcaribbean.com

If you're in search of a high-end cruise experience, consider the Iceland & Ireland cruise offered by the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. Enjoy exclusive amenities such as the Sky Pad, an exceptional bungee trampoline experience on the deck, stunning oceanview rooms, and state-of-the-art solariums.

Along the remarkable European cities on the itinerary are Reykjavik, Iceland, and Belfast, Ireland. Reykjavik, a vibrant city, is renowned for its sightings of the Northern Lights, the Blue Lagoon—an intriguing geothermal and luxury wellness retreat—and its sophisticated urban lifestyle, featuring modern museums, coffee culture, and fine dining establishments.

In Belfast, immerse yourself in the quintessential Irish pub culture and take a tour of the Belfast City Hall, showcasing historical paintings and exquisite stained glass windows. Pay a visit to the Titanic Memorial Monument and Garden, located within the City Hall's compound, built to honor the heroic individuals from Belfast who selflessly sacrificed their lives to save countless others aboard the ill-fated ship.

A trip to Belfast would be incomplete without exploring the Crumlin Road Gaol. This 150-year-old prison once held murderers, political figures, and suffragettes and witnessed numerous executions and riots throughout Irish history. Step into the shoes of prisoners from the 1800s as you wander through the prison cells and traverse the tunnel that connects the Gaol to the Courthouse.

Recommended visitors: Discerning travelers in search of a luxurious European getaway.

Best time for cruising: The optimal time for cruising across European countries, including Iceland for whale watching or witnessing the Northern Lights, is from May to September.

 These top travel trends and destinations for 2023 will undoubtedly serve as perfect additions to your bucket list. So, don't hesitate to begin planning your ultimate 2023 vacation!