Are you filled with wanderlust and curiosity, eager to uncover this year’s hottest travel destinations? Look no further as we unveil the most sought-after and top-trending places to visit this year. From beautiful landscapes to culturally rich cities, these destinations are capturing travelers’ attention and hearts worldwide.
The Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best award by Tripadvisor is given to destinations that have received a high volume of exceptional reviews for their hotels, restaurants, and attractions over the course of 12 months. Achieving this recognition is a rare honor, as it is only awarded to less than 1% of Tripadvisor’s extensive collection of 8 million listings.
Here are the top trending travel destinations for 2023.
1. Cuba
For many years, United States citizens were cautioned against traveling to Cuba. Fortunately, this has changed as of late, as the island has quickly become one of the top destinations for travelers the world over.
One of the most popular things to do in Cuba is to visit the historic city of Havana. Travelers can explore the iconic Malecón, stroll through the historic streets of Old Havana (Habana Vieja), visit the impressive fortresses like El Morro, enjoy live music and salsa dancing in lively clubs, and immerse themselves in the city’s rich history and architecture.
2. Hoi An
Located on the central Vietnamese coast, Hoi An takes you back hundreds of years (while providing access to modern amenities). For many years, it’s been a top destination for backpackers, but today, a growing number of tourists are visiting the city.
One of the most popular things to do in Hoi An, Vietnam, is to explore its enchanting Ancient Town. This well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site is a mesmerizing fusion of cultures, featuring a mix of Chinese, Japanese, and European architectural influences.
3. Mauritius
Mauritius is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, off the southeastern coast of Africa. Mauritian beaches are among the cleanest and most tranquil in the world. The island is known for its picture-perfect, palm-fringed shorelines, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and powdery white sand. If that’s not reason enough to visit, you’ll enjoy the tropical climate, water sports, dolphin watching, or cuisine.
4. Siem Reap
A resort town in northwestern Cambodia, Siem Reap is unlike any other destination in the world. Not only is it the gateway to the ruins of Angkor, but there are temples and other ancient sites throughout the region to visit. Even better is that Siem Reap is well-known for its friendly people and welcoming atmosphere toward tourists.
5. Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai offers a unique blend of traditional Thai culture and modern amenities, with its hundreds of Buddhist temples, vibrant night markets, and lush mountainous landscape providing a deeply enriching travel experience. From Northern Thai cuisine to the local coffee culture, Chiang Mai’s local cuisine will keep you busy when you’re not sightseeing.
6. Grand Cayman
Do you find yourself attracted to world-class beach destinations? If so, look no further than Grand Cayman. As the largest of the Cayman Islands, it offers pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. You can lounge on the beach, partake in water sports, or swim with marine life. March and April are the best months to visit Grand Cayman, with September the worst (due to the potential for hurricanes).
7. Fes
Open your mind and visit Fes, an often-overlooked tourist destination in northern inland Morocco. As one of Morocco’s imperial cities, you’ll enjoy taking in sights such as Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage site. For example, it’s home to Al-Karaouine, recognized as one of the world’s oldest universities. Fes is also popular among foodies and those with a strong interest in arts and crafts.
8. Baku
Baku is the capital and largest city of Azerbaijan. It’s known for being the largest city in the world below sea level (92 feet). Baku’s Old City, or Icheri Sheher, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a journey back in time with its medieval walls, historic mosques, and the iconic Maiden Tower.
The city offers a chance to savor authentic Azerbaijani cuisine, known for its variety and flavors, from the national dish, plov, to freshly baked tandir bread. Local tea culture is also a central part of Baku’s culinary experience. You’ll likely come across a few tips and varieties to take home.
9. Kathmandu
For “outside the box” travelers, Kathmandu should be high on your list. It’s Nepal’s capital and most populous city, known for its historic sites, Indra Jatra (religious festival), and “tourism-themed” neighborhoods such as Thamel.
10. Krakow
Kraków, nestled in the southern region of Poland, is best known for its well-preserved medieval core. Some of the famous landmarks include Wawel Castle, Auschwitz-Birkenau, and Benedictine Tyniec Abbey. For the history lovers among us, Krakow is a must-visit.
2023 Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best award by Tripadvisor. This article originally appeared on Wander With Alex. Featured Photo Credit: [@vadimphoto1/DepositPhotos]
