With many of the world’s premier destinations reopening to tourism, 2023 is turning out to be the year travel makes a full comeback. After living through the pandemic and a long period of restrictions, many people have realized that travel is more than simply going on a holiday.
With a heightened appreciation for travel, every trip will be an opportunity to disconnect, explore, and embrace absolute freedom. 2023 will be the year travelers draw out every bit of meaning and inspiration from their experiences.
From beach getaways where you can soak up the sun and rejuvenate your soul to mountain retreats where you can encounter nature in its purest form, every destination is about exploration and exhilarating experiences.
Continue reading to discover some of the most incredible places to add to your bucket list:
1. Breckenridge, Colorado
Breckenridge is a charming mining town in the scenic Rocky Mountains of Colorado. It is home to cross-country skiing and snowboarding. When the snow melts in Breckenridge, ski slopes give way to spectacular biking and hiking trails. Go snowshoeing, winter fly fishing, and dog sledding in the winter and wall climbing, whitewater rafting, and touring gold mines in the summer.
However, the picturesque mountain town is much more than an outdoor paradise. It is a vibrant community rich in history, arts, and culture. Downtown Breckenridge is bustling with art galleries, cafes, restaurants, shops, and historic Victorian buildings.
Main Street Breckenridge is well-known for its outstanding dining and shopping scene, but it is also the central hub for all the local festivals, events, and competitions throughout the year. Plan your trip around one of these events, and get ready for a ton of fun.
Where to Go: Boreas Pass Road, Breckenridge Nordic Center, Barney Ford House Museum, Main Street, Riverwalk Center
When to Visit: November to April, May to September
2. Bali, Indonesia
The endless array of breathtaking beaches is undoubtedly the most obvious reason to visit this tropical paradise in the Indonesian archipelago. From the luxurious Nusa Dua famous for its water sports to secluded, remote beaches away from the crowds, there’s a beach for everyone.
The island is also home to many cultural traditions and events. Throughout the year, the Balinese hold many ceremonies and welcome curious tourists to participate.
Explore the wildlife sanctuaries and mystical temples of Bali. Gateways to serenity and tranquility, the magnificent places of worship provide visitors peace and stunning views of the ocean.
Where to Go: Mount Batur, Pura Lempuyang, Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Tegallalang Rice Terrace, Sanur
When to Visit: May to June, September
3. Lafayette, Louisiana
Lafayette, located in the heart of French Louisiana, is the unofficial capital of Acadiana or Cajun Country. The Southern community is well-known for its plethora of activities, attractions, and festivals.
Visit Vermilionville, a historic hamlet full of period houses brought to life by friendly employees dressed in traditional costumes, playing music and reenacting daily activities from the 18th century. Then, explore the bayou and swampland by boat while keeping an eye out for native birds and reptiles.
Lafayette is also known for its delectable traditional cuisine that French colonists brought with them. Go on a Cajun food tour and enjoy a pot of gumbo, flavorful jambalaya, and tasty boudin sausages.
Where to Go: Acadian Village, Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, Lafayette Science Museum, Lake Martin Rookery, Vermilionville
When to Visit: March to May, September to November
4. Mammoth Lakes, California
Mammoth Lakes is a year-round tourist destination that is as spectacular in the winter as in the summer. While it is well-known for having some of the greatest skiing and snowboarding spots in California, seasonal snowmelt unveils fantastic campsites and hiking trails that lead to pristine alpine lakes.
Choose from over 800 campsites nestled in wildflower meadows, surrounded by pine woods, or perched beside crystal-clear lakes. Enjoy outdoor recreation and wildlife with packed-to-go lunches, or roast some hotdogs over a campfire.
Visit the Mammoth Lakes Rainbow Falls during the warmer months to see the 31-meter waterfall and its equally impressive rainbow. Then, take a dip in natural hot springs surrounded by captivating views of the Sierra mountains.
Where to Go: Convict Lake Campground, Devils Postpile National Monument, Mammoth Mountain, Rainbow Falls, Village Gondola Station
When to Visit: January to March, September to November
5. Marseille, France
A magnificent coastline, bustling café culture, and centuries of history make France’s oldest city the perfect year-round getaway.
Start your journey at the busy heart of the city, the Vieux Port, and indulge in coffee and brunches local café owners have mastered into an art over the last century. Take a trip around the Panier, the city’s old town just north of the harbor, for some of the best sightseeing.
Visit the Grand Opéra de Marseille and many of the galleries and theaters located along the busy Canebière promenade. Discover the great outdoors of Marseille by trekking or cruising along the southern shoreline of the Calanques National Park.
Where to Go: Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, Fort Saint-Jean, Le Panier, Le Vieux Port, Marseille Cathedral
When to Visit: September to November
6. Morelia, Mexico
The state capital of Michoacán is renowned for its well-preserved historic architecture, lakeside landscape, and millions of migratory butterflies. Stroll through downtown streets lined with Spanish colonial churches, palaces, and villas built with pink volcanic stone.
The colossal baroque Morelia Cathedral, with its two 230-foot towers, is a great place to start your tour. Then, visit the 18th-century Government Palace and admire magnificent murals commemorating the history of Mexico’s independence movement.
Get some steps and snapshots in as you stroll along the Roman-style Morelia Aqueduct with more than 200 arches stretching from the center of Morelia.
Where to Go: Centro Histórico de Morelia, Morelia Cathedral, Morelia Aqueduct, Museo Casa Natal de Morelos, Palacio de Gobierno
When to Visit: January to April
7. Salento, Colombia
Salento is located in the heart of Colombia’s iconic coffee region. This little town in the Andes foothills is one of the most picturesque in the country. Salento in Quindío attracts thousands of tourists each year with its vibrantly painted structures and classic colonial architecture.
Enjoy a scenic hike at Valle del Cocora, home to the world’s tallest palm trees that look magnificent against a backdrop of low clouds and mountains. Go horseback-riding among the wax trees of the valley, and ride through open meadows and along tranquil rivers.
Visit one of the country’s coffee farms or fincas, and sample different blends of coffee while participating in the entire farming process.
Where to Go: Calle Real, Finca El Ocaso, Santa Rita Waterfall, The Hummingbird House (Acaime), Valle del Cocora
When to Visit: December to March
8. Utila, Honduras
Utila is one of the Bay Islands of Honduras, a group of islands along the coast of the country and the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. While not as popular as its larger neighbor Roatan, Utila is a relaxing getaway for divers, snorkelers, and beachgoers.
Owing to the affordability of certification programs and the diversity of dive sites, Utila is a favorite destination for scuba diving students. Even if you’re not interested in diving, there’s plenty to explore and enjoy in Utila, from beaches and remote island day tours to the island’s famous party scene.
Where to Go: Bando Beach, Neptune’s Beach Bar, Pumpkin Hill Beach, Utila Coral Reef, Water Cay
When to Visit: April to June
Make Every New Experience More Memorable
Instead of staying at a hotel, make the most out of an authentic experience by renting a vacation home in a local neighborhood. See your destination through the eyes of a local, dine where they dine, and feel more connected to the region and its culture.
Visit bnbfinder today, connect with wonderful hosts, and find cozy and luxurious inns and B&Bs worldwide.
