Best places in the world to Visit

20 Best Places to Travel in 2023

Curaçao

If you're looking for a quicker hop to a beautiful beach in 2023, we've got just the ticket. The Caribbean island of Curaçao is known for its vibrant, Dutch-influenced architecture, 300 days of sun per year, rich coral reefs and diverse mix of cultures. The destination is now more accessible as a result of newly launched North American flight routes from Newark and Miami into the country's capital, Willemstad.

After you arrive at the sunny island, head to the newly renovated Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort, five minutes from the capitol and nestled on six acres of oceanfront property. New to the resort, the property recently opened its onsite dive shop Goby Divers, where guests can learn to scuba and earn their PADI certification, or experience dives based on their level of experience. Or check out one of these top all-inclusive Caribbean resorts.

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Chilean Patagonia

Climate change tourism has seen an increase in recent years as global warming has become a front-and-center topic in travel - last-chance trips to see gigantic glaciers and ice caves before they melt away have specifically seen a rise. Patagonia fits perfectly with this trend. Here you'll see Grey Glacier, the Balmaceda Glacier and the Serrano Glacier, among others.

The Singular Patagonia, Kau Rio Serrano and Quasar Expeditions offer excursions that allow guests to get up close and personal with the glaciers. From kayaking Grey Lake to walking Grey Peninsula, ice trekking, hiking in Torres del Paine or Bernardo O'Higgins National Park, or taking boat rides right up to the glacier walls, travelers can catch a glimpse of the magnificent glaciers before it's too late or becomes too dangerous.

Chilean Patagonia is also becoming more accessible, as there are new flights launching to connect Santiago to Puerto Natales on a regular basis. The new flights will make it easier and faster for travelers to access the region, just in time for Chile's busy 2023 summer season, on SKY, LATAM and JetSmart.

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Prague

Prague is one of our favorite hidden gems in Europe and one of the best places to travel for charm and culture. The perfectly preserved city has bright red trolleys traversing original cobblestone streets lined with charming stone buildings. Around every corner, you'll find a new treat, like the Charles Bridge lined with majestic stone statues, Michelin-starred restaurants and classic pilsner bars. Another highlight: an entire "castle district" centered around majestic Prague Castle.

New for 2023, this ancient kingdom meets modern times with William Rudolf Lobkowicz, the 14th prince of Bohemia, who is modernizing the way philanthropy takes place with NFTs (yes, those NFTs). This new technology can help prove provenance of historic art and also help fund its restoration, which is of particular interest to a family that lost its kingdom of treasures twice - first to the Nazis, and then to the Communists. You can see many of these works of art and hear about their "Non-Fungible Castle" project at the lovely Lobkowicz Palace.

Stay at a true historical gem, the NH Collection Prague Carlo IV. A former grand bank headquarters, it features marble and crystal in the lobby, gorgeous vaulted ceilings in the breakfast dining room and a truly special pool in the downstairs spa level. The trolley runs just outside the property, but the hotel would be happy to arrange special transportation such as a vintage red convertible to whisk you to the castle.Bucket List Travel: The Top 50 Places In The World

According to a new survey, Bali is the top bucket list destination in the world.

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The website surveyed its 1.5 million-strong social audience in order to determine the best bucket list places around the world. According to Sarah Clayton-Lea, head of content with Big 7 Travel, this is the first time the site has assembled this list. "Bucket list travel was a trend that popped up again and again in previous surveys when asking our readers what sort of travel content they most enjoyed consuming," says Clayton-Lea. "So, our curiosity got the better of us and we wanted to know which destinations people are dreaming of for 2019/2020."

READ MORE: "Why You Should Skip Iceland And Go To These 9 Under-the-Radar Places"

The results of the world’s top 50 bucket list destinations include some of the most beautiful places on earth. "White sandy beaches are still a must-visit for many, with vibrant cities also making an appearance on a lot of people’s bucket lists," says Clayton-Lea. Countries with naturally beautiful scenery and world-famous landmarks came out on top: 22% of the destinations on the list have white sandy beaches, while 52% are iconic cities.

The famously colorful Bo Kaap neighborhood in Cape Town, South Africa.

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In the study, Big 7 Travel found that people were also more likely to add a destination to their list if they had seen it on social media, and 33% of people research vacation destinations on their Instagram feed. "With over one-third of our readers saying they look to Instagram for travel inspiration, it makes sense that cities with colorful neighborhoods (such as Cape Town’s Bo Kaap) made the cut," says Clayton-Lea.

Bali topped the list of the 50 most popular bucket list destination on earth, but there were also some unexpected picks. "The top 10 list has a lot of the expected dream destinations, but there are a few surprises on the list: Paro Valley in Bhutan, for example, or Virunga National Park in the Congo," says Clayton-Lea. "I think this shows a great appetite for a need to get off the grid and can only assume that social media (and Netflix, in the case of Virunga!) is responsible for spreading the word of these amazing places."

An interesting factoid uncovered in the study: Most people have an average bucket list of just 11 places, with the hope of visiting seven of those locations during their lifetime. Read on for the top 50 bucket list destinations in the world and what Big 7 Travel had to say about each one.

Overlooking the jungle on one of Bali's highly Instagrammed swings.

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1. Bali, Indonesia: "You’ll find beaches, volcanoes, Komodo dragons and jungles sheltering elephants, orangutans and tigers. Basically, it’s paradise. It’s likely you’ve seen an image of Bali on social media at least once in the past seven days, as it’s such a popular bucket list destination for 2019."

2. New Orleans: "The lively city known for its street music, festive vibe and a melting pot of French, African and American cultures is well worth the trip. NOLA is a city packed with adventures at every turn and should be on everyone’s must-visit list."

3. Kerry, Ireland:" All the way west in Ireland is one of the country’s most scenic counties. Kerry’s mountains, lakes and coasts are postcard-perfect, and that’s before you add in Killarney National Park. The unique small towns such as Dingle add to its charm."

El Badi Palace in the Marrakesh medina.

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4. Marrakesh, Morocco: "This ancient walled city is home to mosques, palaces and lush gardens. It’s known as The Red City thanks to the color of the brick walls surrounding the city. The medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Centre."

5. Sydney: "Sydney is known around the world as one of the greatest and most iconic cities on the planet. Amazing things to do aren’t hard to find; the city has gorgeous beaches, great cafes and world-class entertainment on offer wherever you look."

6. The Maldives: "This tropical nation in the Indian Ocean is made up of more than 1,000 coral islands. It’s home to some of the world’s most luxurious hotel resorts, with white sandy beaches, underwater villas and restaurants and bright blue waters."

7. Paris, France: "One of the most iconic cities in the world, Paris tops many people’s bucket lists. You’ll see so many famous landmarks here: the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame cathedral—the list is never-ending."

8. Cape Town, South Africa: "Cape Town is a dream location to visit: endless natural beauty and clifftop views, pastel pink neighborhoods and turquoise waters."

9. Dubai, U.A.E.: "The high-flying city of the U.A.E, Dubai is one of the most glamorous destinations you’ll ever visit, and is particularly popular with Big 7 Travel readers."

Sunset In Bora Bora, French Polynesia.

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10. Bora Bora, French Polynesia: "Bora Bora is Tahiti's most famous island. How do overwater bungalows and underwater adventures sound to you? To us, it’s everything we could want from a bucket list destination."

11. New York: "New York is one of America’s most exciting states. With charming upstate scenery, world-class cuisine and culture and more things to do than you could fit in one lifetime. The city’s five boroughs all have special features; it’s almost impossible to narrow it down"

12. Dubrovnik, Croatia: "As George Bernard Shaw once said, 'Those who seek paradise on Earth should come to Dubrovnik.' With its winding streets, cliffside beach bars and UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Old Town, it’s no wonder Dubrovnik is such a popular spot."

Carlton hill in Edinburgh, Scotland.

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13. Edinburgh, Scotland: "With the historic Edinburgh castle looming over the city, culture in spades and wonderfully friendly locals, this is one of the world’s greatest city breaks."

14. Rome, Italy: "Whether it’s your first time in Rome or your 50th, the best thing about this city is that you’ll always discover something new each time you stroll the scenic streets."

15. Paro Valley, Bhutan: Paro Valley is known for its monasteries, fortresses (or dzongs) and dramatic landscapes. Tucked between China and India, Bhutan is a mysterious country that prides itself on sustainable tourism. You’ll find Paro Taktsang here, a Himalayan Buddhist sacred site."

At the Jal Mahal Palace at sunset in Jaipur, India.

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16. Jaipur, India: "Jaipur is known as the ‘Pink City’ for its pale terracotta buildings. This was originally done to impress the visiting Prince Albert during his 1876 tour of India by order of the Maharaja (Sawai Ram Singh). Even today, it’s illegal to paint buildings any other color."

17. Waikato, New Zealand: "Waikato, a region in New Zealand’s North Island, is home to massive underground caves, lush rainforest and the buzzy city of Hamilton. But the area’s main attraction? A Middle-earth adventure on the film set of Lord of the Rings. Hobbiton Movie Set still has the original Hobbit holes from the making of the films."

18. Havana, Cuba: "Cuba’s capital is almost 500 years old and a riot of color. Brightly painted buildings and vintage cars make Havana a photogenic dream."

A view of Tokyo Skytree and the city skyline from the Tobu Levant Hotel.

Photo courtesy of Jonathan Bloom

19. Tokyo, Japan: "Visiting Tokyo is like visiting the future—flashing neon lights, incredible technology—yet there’s still a rich sense of culture and history."

20. Antarctica: "Earth’s southernmost continent, Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime destination. Nowhere else can compare with the extreme remoteness of this snowy place. It’s not an easy trip to make, but you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the white wilderness, icy sea kayaking and whale sightings."

21. Vancouver, Canada: "Vancouver is surrounded by water yet close to the mountains and has world-class art, restaurants and heaps of other attractions to keep you entertained."

22. Los Angeles: "In a city with year-round sunshine, glam bars, beaches and hikes, there are endless incredible experiences to enjoy in Los Angeles. It’s no wonder there are almost 5O million ‘LA’ hashtags on Insta."

In Kruger National Park, South Africa.

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23. Kruger National Park, South Africa: "The Kruger National Park is a vast space in northeastern South Africa that is home to a huge array of wildlife. The park has safari experiences of all kinds, allowing you the opportunity to escape busy city living and get back to nature."

24. Santorini, Greece: "Santorini is actually a group of islands; Thíra, Thirassiá, Asproníssi, Palea and Nea Kaméni. Beaches with volcanic black or red sand and clear blue waters make this an ideal holiday spot. With its famous Santorini sunsets, it’s no wonder that it’s one of the most popular bucket list destinations."

25. Moscow, Russia: "Russia’s cosmopolitan capital, Moscow is a beautiful destination to visit in any season. Colorful domes and bell chimes ring out from over 600 churches in the city, and the sense of history is immense. Culture lovers will be impressed with the museums and ballet."

26. Singapore: "Singapore is a small island city-state off southern Malaysia which punches way above its weight on a global level. It’s a modern city with colorful buildings, futuristic bridges and a cloud forest."

London's Westminster Bridge.

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27. London, England: "Pretty pink restaurants, futuristic space-age toilets and jungle skyline views are just some of our favorite things about London. And of course, all the classics: Big Ben, red phone boxes and world-class museums and galleries."

28. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: "Rio de Janeiro has always been one of the most iconic cities in the world with instantly recognizable landscapes and landmarks."

29. Petra, Jordan: "The ancient Nabatean city of Petra in southern Jordan is surrounded by beautiful red rocks and steep gorges. The world wonder is without a doubt Jordan’s most valuable treasure and greatest tourist attraction."

30. Hong Kong: "Famous for its skylines and vibrant food scene, what most people don’t know is that 70% of Hong Kong is mountains and lush parks. Colorful playgrounds and sci-fi apartment blocks give HK an enviable edge."

Beach and sea waves shot from above in Barbados.

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31. Barbados: "Barbados is one of those magical holiday destinations that everybody dreams about visiting. Who wouldn’t put this on their bucket list? Nestled in the south of the Caribbean, it offers stunning beauty and wonderful local culture and is the perfect place to unwind."

32. Amsterdam: "Forget about cliched images of smoke shops and gaudy red lights. From floating flower markets to bohemian neighborhoods, this city has it all."

33. Santiago, Chile: "Santiago is a cosmopolitan city with the very best of Chilean culture; art galleries, design shops and handicraft markets, as well as lively Latino nightlife. You’ll stroll through historic neighborhoods with pretty winding streets and charming bars and cafes."

34. Cairo, Egypt: "Cairo is one of the most ancient cities in the world. Sitting on the Nile river with wonderful museums, vibrant culture and friendly locals, it makes for a great holiday."

Biking in Copenhagen.

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35. Copenhagen, Denmark: "Copenhagen’s rustic fishing ports, modern graffiti and winding red brick streets are just some of what makes it such a beautiful bucket list destination. It oozes Scandi cool from every corner, with top-notch food, stylish design and an always hip atmosphere."

36. Seoul, Korea: "Seoul is a vibrant metropolis where old-meets-new, with pop culture (K-Pop!) alongside Buddhist temples.

37. Laucala Island Resort, Fiji: "Laucala Island Resort is a private island in Fiji, in absolute paradise. It is one of three small islands off the northeast coast of Taveuni in Fiji. There are coconut trees, a sustainable farm and miles of beach, as well as coral reefs, postcard-perfect beaches and lush rainforest."

38. Providencia, Colombia: "The Colombian island of Providencia is the perfect combination of South America and the Caribbean. It’s best known for Crab Cay: an unspoiled little island where all there is to do is snorkel and lie on the beach."

Photographing Machu Picchu, Peru.

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39. Machu Picchu, Peru: "The best way to get here? Arrive at Machu Picchu in style on the 360° Train that will bring you through the Peruvian countryside to the lost city. The wide, panoramic windows are perfect for soaking up the view, plus they serve Pisco Sours on board."

40. Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo: "Virunga National Park is one of the most biologically diverse areas on the planet and home to the world’s critically endangered mountain gorillas. It’s full of lush rainforest and has received even more attention since the documentary Virunga."

41. Lisbon, Portugal: "Lisbon, the hilly capital of Portugal, is postcard-perfect with its cobbled streets, pristine waters and local Atlantic beaches."

42. Hanoi, Vietnam: "Hanoi—the capital of Vietnam—is known for its rich history, busy street life and centuries of French, Asian and Chinese influences all blended into one bustling city. It’s a wonderful base from which to explore the North of Vietnam, including Halong Bay and Sapa, while also enjoying the comforts of a modern vibrant city."

A view of Honolulu's Magic Island And Waikiki Beach.

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43. Hawaii: "From the hustle and bustle of Oahu to the romance of Maui and off-the-beaten-path adventures on Lanai and Molokai. The Hawaiian Islands are pure paradise. Explore colorful canyons and waterfalls and eat your body weight in fresh poke."

44. Ibiza, Spain: "While you’ll have your fair share of techno club experiences, Ibiza is also one of the most beautiful Spanish islands, with a pretty Old Town and scenic beaches. Spend the day on the beach and the nights in legendary clubs."

45. Beijing, China: "Beijing is China’s political, economic, and cultural center, with six Unesco World Heritage Sites in this city alone. Discover Forbidden City, street food dishes of Peking duck and of course, the Great Wall of China."

46. Budapest, Hungary: "The capital city of Hungary, Budapest is a fairytale city in Eastern Europe. The city itself is separated by the 19th-century Chain Bridge that connects the hilly Buda district with flat Pest—hence the name Budapest."

Photographing Vernazza in Cinque Terre.

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47. Cinque Terre, Italy: "Is there anything prettier than this area of centuries-old seaside villages on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline? The five towns (Manarola, Riomaggiore, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare) are made for bucket lists."

48. Buenos Aires, Argentina: "Bookstores set in palatial theatres, tango dancing in the streets and brightly painted neighborhoods. These are just some of what makes Buenos Aires so beautiful."

49. Las Vegas: "With the bright lights, party atmosphere and endless things to see and do, it’s no wonder that Las Vegas has become a glittering global tourism destination. Take a chance in the casinos until the early hours or see world-class entertainment."

50: Matterhorn, Switzerland: "The Matterhorn is one of the world’s most iconic peaks—the pyramid-shaped mountain, which is very difficult to climb, is said to be the most-photographed mountain in the world."

READ MORE:• "Ranked: The 20 Most Dangerous Places to Live"• "Bucket List Travel: The Top 50 Places In The World"• "Why You Should Skip Iceland And Go To These 9 Under-the-Radar Places"• "23 Surprising Things That Will Get You In Trouble In Italy"

• "Bucket List Travel: Top 10 Places In The World And Top 29 In The U.S."

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The 19 Best Places To Travel In 2019

Itz'ana, a new luxury resort in Placencia, Belize.

Photo courtesy of Itz'ana

Belmond Cap Juluca on Anguilla.

Photo courtesy of Belmond Cap Juluca

Where: Anguilla, Caribbean

Chosen By: Tiffany Dowd is a global luxury hotel expert and luxury travel influencer known as “Luxe Tiffany” and founder of Luxe Social Media. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter.

Why: You’ll be hard pressed to find beaches more spectacular in the Caribbean than on the beautiful British overseas territory of Anguilla. From long stretches of pristine white sand on Rendezvous Bay to the sparkling Maundays Bay, Anguilla is a honeymoon hot spot and also ideal for family holidays. The iconic Belmond Cap Juluca will soon reopen on December 15th after a complete renovation and will feature a brand new oceanfront infinity edge pool as well as a touch of Venetian glamour at the new Cip’s by Cipriani restaurant. There will also be a new Cap Shack, where you’ll sip rum punch and dine on beach BBQ tapas from a food truck while swaying to cool calypso tunes under the stars.

READ MORE: "Quit Your Job And Travel the World: 27 Easy Ways To Make Money Online"

A bird's-eye view of Montage Los Cabos.

Photo courtesy of Montage Los Cabos

Where: Los Cabos, Mexico

Chosen By: Michaela Guzy is a media executive, entrepreneur and on-air show host. She is the executive producer for two online television shows, Michaela’s Map and OhThePeopleYouMeet. Based in New York City, she is also an adjunct professor at New York University School of Professional Studies, where she teaches a course called "Travel Storytelling: Creating Video Content."

Why: You might think you know about Los Cabos, but did you know that one of the largest, protected national marine parks in the world is just 60 miles south? Cabo Pulmo National Park used to be heavily overfished before the park became officially protected in the 90s; it's also a UNESCO site because of its rich biodiversity, high marine productivity and beauty. Cabo Pulmo stretches five miles along the coast of Baja California Sur and houses the oldest living reef of on the west coast of North America. (Fishermen have been taught how to be dive masters to keep the ocean healthy and full of fish.) There, you can find sea turtles, sea lions, dolphins and humpback whales. Thanks to the success of the national marine park, travelers can now kayak, go stand-up paddleboarding or snorkel/scuba dive with sea lions and even (friendly) bull sharks. Back in Los Cabos, visit chef Enrique Silva's working organic farm and restaurant at Los Tamarindos, where you can pick your produce and make a meal with him. There are a number of hotels to check out, including a recently opened Montage Los Cabos and the forthcoming Four Seasons Costa Palmas, slated to open in 2019. My pick: the sustainable Hotel El Ganzo, which has an artist-in-residence program and a music recording studio. The hotel also supports the children’s community art center across the street.

A tented room at Fairmont Mara Safari Club.

Photo courtesy of Fairmont Mara Safari Club

Where: Kenya

Chosen By: Natalie Beauregard is the travel guides editor at AFAR, where she covers emerging travel destinations and best hotels.

Why: Kenya Airways just started offering direct flights from New York's JFK to Nairobi, which is going to open the idea of a safari to so many people, since it used to take multiple connections to get to Kenya. This spring, Delta will also start flying direct from Atlanta to Nairobi. In Kenya, I love the Fairmont, which has three properties across the country. Nairobi's Fairmont The Norfolk is focused not just on being a hotel, but being a cultural center by showcasing the city's vibrant culture with exhibitions by Kenyan artists and local fashion designers. At the Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club Resort, the property is running conservancy efforts to protect the animals as well as the culture of the people who live there. The Fairmont Mara Safari Club provides the quintessential safari experience: Nowhere else in Africa can you get so close to the animals.

READ MORE: "Why You Should Skip Iceland And Go To These 9 Under-the-Radar Places"

Overlooking glacial Black Lake in Montenegro. PHOTO: GETTY

Where: Montenegro

Chosen By: Joanna Kuflik is director of services at Marchay, a membership-based community that plans luxury travel experiences for a select elite worldwide.

Why: With breathtaking scenery, undiscovered beaches, UNESCO World Heritage towns, a burgeoning wine culture and incredible Southern European cuisine, this country should be on everyone's radar for 2019. While it used to be considered a stopover that travelers combined with its popular neighboring country, Croatia, this Adriatic paradise has experienced a development boom this past year, making it a perfect country to explore on its own. The legendary Aman Sveti Stefan, a fortified island that dates to the 15th century, is the go-to spot for rest and relaxation with its pink-sand beach and killer spa. In nearby Tivat, the glitzy Regent Porto Montenegro is a prime place for shopping, socializing, beach clubs and boating; a St. Tropez scene, though at a more reasonable price. Meanwhile, the recently opened Chedi Lustica Bay, part of the new Lustica Bay Marina Village, is one of seven hotels to be built in this area, complete with an 18-hole golf course, along with the One & Only Portonovi, due to be finished by the end of next year. With luxury accommodations now able to match its stunning surroundings, Montenegro is a place to put on your horizon in the new year.

An aerial view of Itz'ana in Placencia, Belize.

Photo courtesy of Itz'ana

Where: Placencia, Belize

Chosen By: Jeri Clausing is the contributing editor for luxury at Travel Weekly.

Why: When you think of Belize, you think of the cays or the inland eco-resorts. But further south on the mainland is Placencia, a cute waterfront fishing village with bright houses and buildings that is slowly being discovered. It's also home to Itz’ana, the first luxury resort in the area. The owner collects Mayan artifacts, and this is his second independent hotel in Belize (the first was Ka’ana in San Ignacio). At Itz’ana, the lobby is designed to feel like you’re in a guest house, not a hotel. In addition to the stunning rooms in the main property, there are also villas with private plunge pools.

The Taj Tashi in Bhutan.

Courtesy of Taj Hotels

Where: Bhutan

Chosen by: Juliana A. Saad is a Brazilian writer and editor who specializes in travel, lifestyle and luxury. Her company, MMJX Comunicação, produces develops special editorial content and projects for numerous publications and companies.

Why: Bhutan is ideal for everything, with a peace and calm that you don’t experience anywhere else. It transports you to another culture with different values than what we are used to. You can also challenge yourself to trek to places like the Tiger Nest, a cliffside Buddhist temple. There are great hotels, like the Taj Tashi in Thimphu, which is modeled after a Bhutanese temple and has wonderful amenities, like a signature spa that uses oils from the Himalayas. Amankora in Paro is spectacularly beautiful with a trail between the different lodges in Bhutan.

A view of a volcanic lake on San Miguel Island in the Azores. PHOTO: GETTY

Where: The Azores

Chosen By: Michele Wise is a travel advisor with KK Travels Worldwide. Michele travels constantly, seeking out new, unique destinations for her clients, which include families, couples, multi-gen groups and girlfriends, as well as wellness and incentive travelers. Follow her travels on Instagram @michele.wise

Why: Portugal is on everyone's radar right now, however, new to the scene is the Azores, a set of beautiful islands that are situated in the middle of the Atlantic. With new, seasonal nonstop flights on Delta Air Lines from New York's JFK, the Azores are now very easy to reach. The Azores are known for outdoor adventure along with historical and cultural charm. These islands have something for everyone: vineyards, volcanic crater lakes, world-class whale watching, hot springs, UNESCO protected landscapes, natural swimming pools, thermal springs, diving, surfing, waterfalls — this destination is one big playground that's rich in natural beauty. Rest your head at the lovely Furnas Boutique Hotel, which has a thermal swimming pool that is nice to come home to after a day of sightseeing. You can visit its sister property, Azor Hotel in Ponta Delgada and relax at the rooftop pool, which has amazing views of the city and the port. Looking for something off the beaten path? Santa Barbara Eco Hotel sits on cliff overlooking the Atlantic and is popular with surfers, while White Exclusive Suites & Villas is an intimate spot on the south side of the island with breathtaking ocean views from the infinity pool.

Glamping at Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge.

Photo courtesy of Belmond

Where: Botswana

Chosen By: Fernanda Costa Gama Logemann is the founder of the Brazil-based travel platform, Spice up the Road, which is focused on sharing the most exclusive travel experiences around the world and the best tips for food, hotels and attractions. Spice up the Road is also a column in the lifestyle magazine Revista Donna.

Why: I am always looking for unforgettable adventures and authentic experiences, so glamping (upscale camping) is a trend that I am really excited about. It's the perfect way to disconnect from your routine and connect with wildlife and nature, but still have the opportunity to enjoy the kind of comfort and luxury that makes a difference in a stay. Want a great way to experience the glamorous and unique world of glamping? The Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge has just reopened and is located in the heart of Chobe National Park in Botswana, offering beautiful lodges and amazing wildlife viewing in the savannah.

A Mexico City panorama after dark. PHOTO: GETTY

Where: Mexico City

Chosen By: Based in Mexico City, María Pellicer has been working in the travel industry for the past decade. Formerly the editor in chief of Travesias magazine, she now oversees all the editorial projects in the company.

Why: Mexico City is going very strong, and I'm not saying that because I'm a local. Just check out the number of hotels that are opening here. Now, joining Ritz-Carlton and Park Hyatt, Kimpton and Sofitel have both announced they will open in Mexico's capital. This clearly speaks to a rising interest among tourists to explore our city — and I'm pretty sure our gastronomic scene has a lot to do with that, too.

Silversea's Silver Cloud will be traveling to Iceland in 2019.

Photo courtesy of Silversea

Where: Iceland

Chosen By: An avid traveler, Tania L Swasbrook grew up in the travel industry. She specializes in ultra luxury travel with a particular passion for wellness, romance and adventure.

Why: From waterfalls and glaciers to whale-watching and puffins, Iceland is a place like none other. In 2019, the way to see it is with Silversea, which is venturing to Iceland with Silver Cloud, the finest and most elegant expedition ship float. She will be circumnavigating the land of fire and ice in August of 2019, and only 250 lucky guests will be able to experience the beauty of this mystical country so close up.

A view of Paseo del Prado in Havana, Cuba. PHOTO: GETTY

Where: Havana, Cuba

Chosen By: Jill K. Robinson writes about travel, adventure, food and drink for AFAR, National Geographic Traveler, Travel + Leisure, Robb Report and more. Her magazine and newspaper articles have won Lowell Thomas, Society of American Travel Writers, and American Society of Journalists and Authors awards.

Why: One of the things that got my attention recently was the announcement of the first SO/ property in the Americas. The SO/ Havana Paseo del Prado is expected to open in early 2020, at the intersection of Paseo de Marti and the Malecón in the heart of Havana. The property will feature the creative signature of Spanish designer Agatha Ruiz de la Prada, who has been inspired by the world of Cuban dance for the glamorous, yet playful hotel. I have to admit that my initial reaction was selfish, because I traveled in Cuba for my honeymoon in 2001, so I'm already planning to celebrate the opening and my wedding anniversary in Havana.

The pool at Hotel Casa San Agustin in Cartagena.

Photo courtesy of Hotel Casa San Agustin

Where: Cartagena, Colombia

Chosen By: Haisley Smith is the vice-president of marketing and business development for Brownell, the agency of choice for intrepid travelers since 1887. Smith looks for properties with personality, cruises with creativity and experiences that excite the senses on behalf of the luxury agency powerhouse.

Why: Cartagena is a riot of color, cuisine and culture. Where to stay? Casa San Agustin is situated in the center of the action inside the city walls. It’s a romantic getaway with unique features, like a pool running beneath a centuries old aqueduct.

The pool at the InterContinental Ljubljana.

Photo courtesy of InterContinental Ljubljana

Where: Ljubljana, Slovenia

Chosen By: Tiffany Dowd is a global luxury hotel expert and luxury travel influencer known as “Luxe Tiffany” and founder of Luxe Social Media. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter.

Why: Discover one of Europe's most charming places in Ljubljana, Slovenia. It’s a young and lively city that should be hot on everyone’s radar. For a unique perspective and beautiful views, sail the Ljubljanica River on a traditional wooden boat to experience the city. The new InterContinental Ljubljana is the perfect place to stay for a luxurious and modern chic experience. The hotel has a great location near the train station, Old Town and Park Tivoli. You’ll find some of the most spectacular views from its rooftop B-Bar and B by Alfredo Russo restaurant.

A hacienda at Chable in Merida, Mexico.

Photo courtesy of Chable.

Where: Mérida, Mexico

Chosen By: Michaela Guzy is a media executive, entrepreneur and on-air show host. She is the executive producer for two online television shows, Michaela’s Map and OhThePeopleYouMeet. Based in New York City, she is also an adjunct professor at New York University School of Professional Studies, where she teaches a course called "Travel Storytelling: Creating Video Content."

Why: Sunrise yoga on the banks of a sacred Mayan cenote? Sí, por favor! This is just one of the magical wonders you’ll discover at Chable Resort, in a 250-year-old converted hacienda just outside Merida, Mexico. But Chable is more than just a wellness retreat with a world-class spa. It incorporates indigenous Mayan traditions and healing into treatments, like a temezcal under the careful eye of the Résident Abuela Ak’bal, a spiritual leader. After a mind, body, soul connection, take a dip in the thermal pools. For golf lovers, a Pitch & Putt will open in January 2019, and the well-curated gift shop features only Mexican designers. No visit to Mexico is complete without tasting the local cuisine and tequila. An estimated 40% of produce and herbs used at Chable are grown on its own farm, utilizing traditional Mayan techniques. At Ixi’im Restaurant, executive chef Luis Ronzon works hand in hand with star chef Jorge Vallejo, known for his award-winning restaurant, Quintonil, in Mexico City. Ixi’im also has the world’s largest tequila collection (in terms of bottle design), with 3,500 on display. And you must not miss the handmade tortillas at the Palapa Maya, where Doña Eneida — the village’s grandmother and Chable’s Yucatan chef — cooks her family's recipes for guests.

Baha Mar in the Bahamas.

Photo courtesy of Baha Mar

Where: Baha Mar, Bahamas

Chosen By: Haisley Smith is the vice-president of marketing and business development for Brownell, the agency of choice for intrepid travelers since 1887. Smith looks for properties with personality, cruises with creativity and experiences that excite the senses on behalf of the luxury agency powerhouse.

Why: Visitors are flush with choice in the Bahamas, and at the new Baha Mar, there is a little something for travelers of all tastes and preferences. Pick your hotel based on your passion: the luxurious Rosewood Baha Mar, the cutting-edge SLS Baha Mar or the family-friendly Grand Hyatt Baha Mar. The resort complex opened earlier this year with well-publicized hiccups, but the Bahamian government recently allowed for 2,000 additional work visas to help the resorts round out their staffs. It’s smooth sailing and cocktail sipping from here on out.

Enjoying a ride on a traditional gondola boat in Warsaw's Royal Baths Park. PHOTO: GETTY

Where: Poland

Chosen By: Natalie Beauregard is the travel guides editor at AFAR, where she covers emerging travel destinations and best hotels.

Why: I'm excited about Poland, where there's a lot of a youthful energy right now. In Warsaw, there's so much going on with culture and the arts, including the new Raffles Europejski, set in a landmark, 160-year-old building. Another city that's doing a lot with the arts scene is Katowice. Also worth checking out is Szczecin, an emerging city in the northwest of the country that is home to a new philharmonic building. Of course, any visit here should also include a stop at some of the more sobering historic locations, like Auschwitz. It’s a destination you'll really want to explore.

The pool at Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, in Krabi, Thailand.

Photo courtesy of Ritz-Carlton

Where: Krabi, Thailand

Chosen by: Juliana A. Saad is a Brazilian writer and editor who specializes in travel, lifestyle and luxury. Her company, MMJX Comunicação, produces news and develops special editorial content and projects for numerous publications and companies.

Why: Krabi is a special place in the south of Thailand that is still under the radar, uncrowded and peaceful. The place to stay is Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, set right on a white-sand beach. The bungalows are like little houses with lap pools, bathtubs in the form of a lotus flower and the biggest beds you'll ever see. The hotel hosts barbecues on the beach and will take you on boat trips around the islands, which jut out of the sea. It looks like Halong Bay in Vietnam, but is blissfully serene. Once you're in Krabi, you'll never want to leave.

Beautiful black rock beach in Madeira. PHOTO: GETTY

Where: Madeira

Chosen By: Based in Mexico City, María Pellicer has been working in the travel industry for the past decade. Formerly the editor in chief of Travesias magazine, she now oversees all the editorial projects in the company.

Why: Portugal has been on travelers' radars for quite some time now, but I'm super excited about the country getting a bit more popular. Madeira is a great nature destination and is still fairly unexplored. Because of its remote location, there's a feeling of something exotic and isolated — but then again, it's Portugal, so food and culture are still there. For those who love nature, this is something to keep an eye on.

SHA Wellness Clinic in Alicante, Spain.

Photo courtesy of SHA Wellness Clinic

Where: Alicante, Spain

Chosen By: An avid traveler, Tania L Swasbrook grew up in the travel industry. She specializes in ultra luxury travel with a particular passion for wellness, romance and adventure.

Why: Alicante in the Valencia region of southeastern Spain is a beautiful and picturesque destination set on the hills of the Mediterranean Sea between the bay of Altea and the natural park of Sierra Helada. There are stunning views, plus the weather is amazing year round. There, you'll find SHA Wellness Clinic, which is in a class of its own, perfectly combining the chicness, beauty and service of a luxury Mediterranean resort with an expert team of medical professionals. The combination of Western and Eastern medicine provides a true 360-degree approach to wellness. SHA Wellness also recently launched “SHA Residences,” 11 luxurious suites that allow you to truly immerse yourself in a healthier lifestyle while in the company of your loved ones.

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03

20 Best Places to Travel in 2023

Curaçao

If you’re looking for a quicker hop to a beautiful beach in 2023, we’ve got just the ticket. The Caribbean island of Curaçao is known for its vibrant, Dutch-influenced architecture, 300 days of sun per year, rich coral reefs and diverse mix of cultures. The destination is now more accessible as a result of newly launched North American flight routes from Newark and Miami into the country’s capital, Willemstad.

After you arrive at the sunny island, head to the newly renovated Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort, five minutes from the capitol and nestled on six acres of oceanfront property. New to the resort, the property recently opened its onsite dive shop Goby Divers, where guests can learn to scuba and earn their PADI certification, or experience dives based on their level of experience. Or check out one of these top all-inclusive Caribbean resorts.

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Chilean Patagonia

Climate change tourism has seen an increase in recent years as global warming has become a front-and-center topic in travel—last-chance trips to see gigantic glaciers and ice caves before they melt away have specifically seen a rise. Patagonia fits perfectly with this trend. Here you’ll see Grey Glacier, the Balmaceda Glacier and the Serrano Glacier, among others.

The Singular Patagonia, Kau Rio Serrano and Quasar Expeditions offer excursions that allow guests to get up close and personal with the glaciers. From kayaking Grey Lake to walking Grey Peninsula, ice trekking, hiking in Torres del Paine or Bernardo O’Higgins National Park, or taking boat rides right up to the glacier walls, travelers can catch a glimpse of the magnificent glaciers before it’s too late or becomes too dangerous.

Chilean Patagonia is also becoming more accessible, as there are new flights launching to connect Santiago to Puerto Natales on a regular basis. The new flights will make it easier and faster for travelers to access the region, just in time for Chile’s busy 2023 summer season, on SKY, LATAM and JetSmart.

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Prague

Prague is one of our favorite hidden gems in Europe and one of the best places to travel for charm and culture. The perfectly preserved city has bright red trolleys traversing original cobblestone streets lined with charming stone buildings. Around every corner, you’ll find a new treat, like the Charles Bridge lined with majestic stone statues, Michelin-starred restaurants and classic pilsner bars. Another highlight: an entire “castle district” centered around majestic Prague Castle.

New for 2023, this ancient kingdom meets modern times with William Rudolf Lobkowicz, the 14th prince of Bohemia, who is modernizing the way philanthropy takes place with NFTs (yes, those NFTs). This new technology can help prove provenance of historic art and also help fund its restoration, which is of particular interest to a family that lost its kingdom of treasures twice—first to the Nazis, and then to the Communists. You can see many of these works of art and hear about their “Non-Fungible Castle” project at the lovely Lobkowicz Palace.

Stay at a true historical gem, the NH Collection Prague Carlo IV. A former grand bank headquarters, it features marble and crystal in the lobby, gorgeous vaulted ceilings in the breakfast dining room and a truly special pool in the downstairs spa level. The trolley runs just outside the property, but the hotel would be happy to arrange special transportation such as a vintage red convertible to whisk you to the castle.