Here's Where You Should Travel In 2023
Can’t decide where to go for your next holiday? Let this list guide your next adventure
Where should you travel to in 2023? With much of the world reopening and travel officially bouncing back, there’s a plethora of choices now back on the map. If you’re seeking some holiday inspiration, travel company Expedia has assembled a list of the most popular destinations around the globe to travel in 2023.
The list of top destinations was derived out of an international study with 24,000 respondents across 17 countries, amongst adults who are planning domestic or international travel in the next 36 months.
There’s an eclectic mix of destinations that made the list, ranging from cities with impressive cultural calendars and a thriving culinary scene, to beach destinations with hidden temples and bustling local markets.
Here are the top ten most popular destinations around the world to plan your 2023 holidays around:
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Top of the list is Bangkok, the capital city of “The Land of Smiles”. A vibrant tourist hotspot, there’s a lot to take in and plenty to do in the bustling city. Treat your tastebuds to renowned Thai street food, visit a Buddhist temple (or ten) for the city is home to more than 26,000 temples, enjoy a a Thonburi khlong (canal) tour in a longtail river boat, or shop your stress away by hitting the array of shopping destinations ranging from mega-malls to weekend markets.
Coming in second in terms of popularity is Japan’s capital and the world’s most populous metropolis, Tokyo. The well-loved city has something for everyone, whether you’re looking to catch a sumo tournament at the Ryogoku Kokugikan stadium, shop for trendy pieces in the streets of Shibuya, or view the cherry blossoms at Shinjuku Gyoen national garden when they bloom.
There’s a reason why Seoul is well-loved by so many – the list of things you can do in the famous Korean capital is endless. A shopping paradise where you can get your hands on the latest trends in Korean fashion and high-quality beauty products? Check. Visit an authentic Korean BBQ place where you can indulge in high-quality marbled cuts of meat? Check. Soak in the country’s culture at historic sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village? Check. (Potentially) spot your favourite Korean celeb? Also check.
Indonesia’s most famous island, Bali is a laid-back paradise with idyllic beaches, beautiful nature and fascinating local culture. The popular surfing destination has a range of waves for any level of surfers, and for those who don’t surf, you can sit back and soak up the sun while watching the waves roll in languidly at the beaches. The island’s other natural attractions are equally captivating, whether it’s the bucolic countryside with lush green landscapes of rice paddies or beautiful Hindu temples that overlook scenic seascapes and volcanic backdrops.
The Maldives, a collection of more than a thousand islands in the Indian Ocean, is known for its alluring landscape of white sand and luminous blue waters. The stunning archipelago is home to perhaps the best beaches in the world. Embrace the island life and spend your days snorkelling or scuba diving in the clear waters full of marine life, discovering the various local islands, or basking in the famous mesmerising Maldivian sunsets.
The second Japanese destination in this list is Hokkaido, Japan’s northern island that’s notable for its scenic and beautiful wilderness, fresh seafood, and relaxing atmosphere. The prefecture is also a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in winter, with some of the best powder snow conditions across the globe. Popular ski resorts like Niseko, Rusutsu and Furano are often booked out from December to March by those who are looking to hit the slopes.
Located in southern Thailand, Phuket is known as the country’s premier leisure playground. Surrounded by picturesque beaches, jungle-clad mountains and sparkling aquamarine waters, the island is amongst some of the world’s most famous tropical beach getaways. There’s something for every taste and budget, whether you’re seeking to try the local food, explore night markets and Phuket’s famous nightlife, or jump on an exhilarating speedboat trip to explore some of the nearby tropical islands.
The first European destination on the list is the capital of England – London. The charming cosmopolitan city is known for its iconic attraction spots, world-beating theatre scene, and incredible museums. London also boasts a plethora of award-winning restaurants with different cuisines and flavours, ranging from trusty stalwarts to successful newcomers.
Don’t be fooled by Netflix’s Emily in Paris – your ankles will definitely hurt if you wear stilettos everyday and strut around the many cobblestone streets of the French capital. The City of Lights, however, is definitely dazzling in its own way; it is home to romantic restaurants, impressive art and architecture, and several iconic global landmarks.
The last destination on the list is one that doesn’t even require a flight from Singapore – this neighbouring country is a short drive away. Johor is perfect for those who are looking for a quick getaway. There’s a slew of activities to do, whether it’s cafe-hopping, visiting exciting theme parks, or screaming your lungs out at karaoke.
This article originally appeared in Her World.