What Are The Best “Travel And Leisure” Destinations In 2023?

Travel and leisure are taking center stage in 2023 as the world reopens. Are you ready to explore the best destinations? SIXT.VN offers seamless travel experiences in Vietnam, ensuring you discover cultural gems and scenic beauty with ease. Let’s explore some of the most exciting destinations for 2023 and how SIXT.VN can enhance your travel and leisure plans in Vietnam.

1. Cultural Riches

1.1 Alexandria, Virginia

Alexandria, Virginia, is known for its postcard-perfect cobblestone streets and easy access to northern Virginia’s wineries. The city effectively confronts its history, as destinations across the American South grapple with the legacy of the Confederacy. Founded as a tobacco port in 1749, Alexandria was a site of the country’s largest domestic slave trade for decades in the 19th century. Today, the Freedom House Museum features new exhibitions honoring those forcibly brought there. The African American Heritage Trail, opened in 2020, includes 11 stops covering nearly 200 years of history along the Potomac River.

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1.2 Cairo and the Nile

Cairo and the Nile offer a blend of ancient wonders and modern luxury. The Grand Egyptian Museum, near the Great Pyramids of Giza, is expected to open soon, featuring over 1 million square feet of exhibition space, including a 40-foot-high statue of Ramses II. New luxury ships, such as the Viking Osiris and the opulent Sphinx from Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, sail the Nile, offering luxurious accommodations. The hotel scene is also improving with a new Mandarin Oriental slated for downtown Cairo in 2024 and a Four Seasons Hotel Luxor scheduled for 2025.

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1.3 “City,” Nevada

“City,” Nevada, offers a unique art experience in a remote landscape. Located in Basin and Range National Monument, about two hours north of Las Vegas, “City” is the largest contemporary artwork in the world, opened to visitors in September 2022. This monumental open-air sculpture, made from dirt, rock, and concrete, was created by artist Michael Heizer over 50 years. Reservations are required to visit this awe-inspiring destination.

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1.4 Havana, Cuba

Havana, Cuba, is becoming more accessible, thanks to the Biden administration’s relaxation of travel restrictions. Americans can visit as part of a group tour or individually with a “support for the Cuban people” license. This requires a full-time schedule of activities supporting the Cuban people, such as buying services from Cuban entrepreneurs and dining in private restaurants. A visa is required, obtainable at the airport or from a tour provider.

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1.5 Tangier, Morocco

Tangier, Morocco, is attracting a stream of bohemian expats and visitors. The opening of Villa Mabrouka, British designer Jasper Conran’s second Moroccan property, adds to its appeal. This former residence of Yves Saint Laurent offers stunning views of the Bay of Tangier. New attractions include the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Fairmont Tazi Palace Tangier, set on a refurbished, century-old estate.

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1.6 Lakes Region, Turkey

The Lakes Region in Turkey offers a diverse landscape and ancient history. Travel advisor Engin Kadaster predicts this region will become increasingly popular. Destinations include Isparta, a center of rose and lavender production, and the ancient hilltop city of Sagalassos. The region features tectonic lakes created by ancient earthquakes and Greek and Roman archaeological sites. Cozy accommodations like Eskiciler Konaği and Aliya Konak provide warm hospitality. Intrepid travelers can camp along the new Pisidia Heritage Trail.

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1.7 The United Kingdom

The United Kingdom, Travel + Leisure’s Destination of the Year, is undergoing a period of transition but remains rich in history and culture. Historic cities offer hotels that blend stately grandeur and affable service. New openings include Gleneagles Townhouse in Edinburgh and the Peninsula London. Upgrades to the Burrell Collection in Glasgow and the Manchester Museum enhance the cultural scene. Gourmands can enjoy culinary delights at London’s new Arcade Food Hall at Battersea Power Station. Scotland’s first rewilding center, Dundreggan, and the new Two Toms Trail in Lancashire offer countryside experiences.

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1.8 Venice

Venice, a perennially popular city, is known for its architecture and canals. In 2022, the city made headlines for its day-trip entrance fee, which takes effect in January 2023. The Venice Architecture Biennale runs from May 20 to November 26, 2023. Architecture lovers can visit the Procuratie Vecchie, a 16th-century building along St. Mark’s Square, recently opened to the public after a five-year refurbishment. Belmond’s Venice Simplon-Orient Express will unveil two newly restored carriages from the 1920s and ‘30s in June.

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2. For the Food — and Wine

2.1 Athens

Athens deserves a closer look for its culinary scene and coastal development. The Athens Riviera has seen a surge of development, with the Four Seasons Astir Palace offering a private beach and Michelin-starred dining. In spring 2023, One&Only Aesthesis will open nearby. The brand-new Experience Park offers trails, fitness classes, and native plants. Central Athens features the Xenodocheio Milos hotel and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, which will host a full schedule of shows in 2023.

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2.2 Central Florida

Central Florida is a top destination with a growing hospitality scene. Orlando and Tampa won 14 Michelin accolades in 2022. Family-friendly attractions include Disney’s Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser and Walt Disney World’s 50th-anniversary celebrations. In Tampa, the latest Edition Hotel offers a rooftop pool club and restaurant from chef John Fraser. The opening of Orlando International Airport’s new Terminal C and Brightline rail service connecting Orlando to South Florida enhance accessibility.

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2.3 The Jura, France

The Jura, France, produces exceptional wines and cheeses. This tiny region west of Switzerland is known for its vin jaune, aged in the sous voile style. The Jura also boasts a comté cheese trail connecting 150 fromageries and dairy farms. Hiking in the Jura Mountains and to the Hérisson waterfalls offers a refreshing break. The Jura is accessible by high-speed train from Paris.

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2.4 San Luis Obispo County, California

San Luis Obispo County, California, is a must-visit destination with its seven cities, including Morro Bay, Paso Robles, and Pismo Beach. The area earned official American Viticulture Area (AVA) recognition in 2022, thanks to its 200 wineries. New hotels, such as Farmhouse and River Lodge, will welcome visitors in 2023. Paso Robles has its first Michelin star at Six Test Kitchen. The Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove is a natural attraction.

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2.5 Victoria, Australia

Victoria, Australia, is a rising wine-and-wellness destination with hot springs resorts. Alba Thermal Springs and Spa opened in September 2022, with pools powered by solar energy. Metung Hot Springs is set to follow in late 2022, and Phillip Island Hot Springs plans to open in early 2023. The Mornington Peninsula features the InterContinental Sorrento. Melbourne expects new openings, including Hotel Vera Ballarat and the Ritz-Carlton Melbourne. Qantas offers nonstop flights connecting Dallas and Melbourne.

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3. Big-City Thrills

3.1 Copenhagen

Copenhagen will highlight its design prowess as the UNESCO World Capital of Architecture in 2023. Venues across the city will host events showcasing the future of the urban environment. Highlights include the Copenhill Power Plant and open-house events at various venues. New accommodations, such as the Kaj Hotel and the 25 Hours Hotel Copenhagen, offer a signature blend of modernism and hygge.

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3.2 Houston

Houston is solidifying its spot as an international arts destination with new ventures. The 2020 opening of the Kinder Building at the Museum of Fine Arts Houston and the reopening of the Rothko Chapel enhance its reputation. The JMK5 Arena, opening next year, will transform a disused racetrack into a 12,500-seat concert stadium. The Houston Zoo is undergoing an expansion, and the Houston Botanic Gardens features diverse ecosystems.

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3.3 Madrid

Madrid is shaking off its reputation as a business hub with a flurry of tony hotel openings. The Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Rosewood Villa Magna, and Santo Mauro have been joined by the Edition, bringing personality to the city. Madrid’s electric food scene has also improved, with new offerings representing various cuisines.

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3.4 Nashville

Nashville’s tourism renaissance is fueled by new hotels, including a Conrad, 1 Hotel, and Soho House. The redesigned Hermitage Hotel features the first Jean-Georges Vongerichten restaurant in the South. The Fifth + Broadway complex has new outposts of old favorites, and the Assembly Food Hall offers diverse choices. The Nashville energy can still be found on Broadway, at honky-tonk bars, and at events like CMA Fest.

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3.5 Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is working on new cultural destinations, including the Moonshot Museum and the restored childhood home of playwright August Wilson. The Carnegie Museum of Art is hosting its 58th Carnegie International Exhibition. New hotels and bars, like the Joinery Hotel Pittsburgh and The Industrialist, are drawing crowds.

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3.6 San Francisco

San Francisco continues to shine with its arts, nature, and culinary scene. The new Institute of Contemporary Art San Francisco focuses on equity, and the Presidio of San Francisco gained 14 acres with the opening of the Presidio Tunnel Tops. A massive community-led park and mixed-use development is underway in India Basin. New hotels include 1 Hotel San Francisco, The Line SF, and Beacon Grand.

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3.7 Seoul

Seoul’s arts scene is buzzing with new venues like Konig Gallery and the announcement of three new wings for the Seoul Museum of Art. The destination has seen new hotels open, including the Fairmont Ambassador Seoul and Josun Palace. Seoul hosted its first edition of Frieze this past September.

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4. For Moments on the Water

4.1 Cape Verde, the Gambia, Ghana, and Guinea-Bissau

West Africa remains unfamiliar to many, but Hurtigruten Expeditions aims to launch West Africa Archipelago cruises in November 2023. These two-week trips will stop in ports in four countries, with visits to historical sites, wildlife-watching forays, and adventures such as scaling volcanoes.

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4.2 Coastal Ecuador

Coastal Ecuador offers surf towns, preserved beaches, and the cloud forest of Machalilla National Park. Kontiki Expeditions unlocks the region with eight-day yacht cruises visiting five of the country’s provinces. U.S. airlines now offer direct flights to Guayaquil, from which Kontiki Expeditions trips depart.

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4.3 The Explora I

The Explora Journeys describes its itineraries as “ocean journeys” aboard the newly built, 461-suite Explora I. The vessel is slated to hit the water in July 2023, with trips in the Mediterranean that visit popular cruise destinations and lesser-visited ports. Explora I will have 18 restaurants and bars and a massive spa.

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4.4 Greenland

Greenland promises beautiful landscapes and endless horizons. The National Geographic Resolution will sail the Eastern shore of Greenland in June 2023. Ponant has a dozen distinct itineraries scheduled for 2023, and the brand-new Seabourn Venture will also be there. More conventional operators, such as Regent Seven Seas Cruises, are making the polar destination a fixture, too.

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4.5 Hvar, Croatia

Hvar, Croatia, is known for its sunny weather and cycling terrain. The island calls itself the sunniest in Croatia. Jesla was named the first International Dark Sky Community in Southern Europe in 2022. The lavender festival blooms in July with food, drink, and family-friendly activities. The Riva Marina hotel reopened with refreshed waterfront terrace suites, and the Beach Bay hotel is the island’s first sustainable hotel.

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4.6 The Path of Totality

A total solar eclipse will occur on April 20, 2023, crossing the Indian Ocean, Western Australia, Indonesia, and East Timor. The best way to catch the show will be to board a ship, such as the Le Lapérouse, for a Ponant and Smithsonian Journeys cruise from Bali to Broome, Australia. The new Indonesia-based charter yacht Celestia will also be sailing around the edges of totality.

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5. For Fresh Air and Nature

5.1 Andorra

Andorra could soon turn into one of the world’s biggest ski destinations. Three Andorra ski areas have been added to the Ikon Pass, putting 7,600 acres of downhill terrain into play. The Grandvalira Resorts Andorra will be available on a single local Andorra Pass.

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5.2 Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville, North Carolina, offers year-round outdoor activities, sophisticated dining, and new places to stay. The Wrong Way River Lodge has A-frame cabins along the French Broad River, and AutoCamp Asheville is slated to open by mid-2023. Downtown, the new Restoration Hotel promises a plush stay. Asheville’s food scene has fresh energy from S&W Market.

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5.3 Aysén, Chile

Chile’s Aysén region offers a captivating landscape of hanging glaciers, fjords, lakes, and peaks. Several outfitters and organizations are developing more itineraries and ecotourism routes. Explora opened a lodge in Aysén’s Patagonia National Park, offering eight- to 12-day trips.

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5.4 The Hudson Valley, New York

The Hudson Valley, New York, is transitioning from quasi-rustic to quietly glam. The Ranch Hudson Valley will open on a grand estate, and Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resorts Collection, will highlight the pastoral side of the region. The region’s reputation for top-notch cuisine continues, and Foreland is a kunsthalle with exhibition spaces and artist studios.

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5.5 Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia

Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park offers a dynamic safari experience on the river. The luxurious eight-suite Lolebezi lodge opened inside the park on the banks of the river. The park sits opposite Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Air Botswana relaunched flights from Gaborone, Botswana, to Lusaka, Zambia.

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5.6 Prince Edward Island, Canada

Prince Edward Island, Canada, offers rugged cliffs, red-sand beaches, and a robust golf scene. The Island Walk, a 435-mile trail, traces the entire coastline, passing through small towns and fishing villages. Towns and villages along the route offer attractions, such as the Slaymaker & Nichols inn and gastropub.

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5.7 Tanzania

High-speed internet was installed at the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, marking a new era in Tanzania. President Samia Suluhu Hassan is strengthening infrastructure, women’s businesses, and sustainable travel. The Usangu Expedition Camp in Ruaha National Park opened in partnership with the Tanzania National Parks Authority and the Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute.

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5.8 Uttar Pradesh, India

Uttar Pradesh, India, is home to classic attractions including the Taj Mahal and the Ganges River ghats of Varanasi. The new draws here include Vana, a wellness retreat in the Himalayan foothills.

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6. For Beach Vibes

6.1 Bermuda

Bermuda is a favorite weekend getaway for East Coasters, becoming even easier to get to in 2023. American Airlines resumed flights to the island from New York City. A new terminal at L.F. Wade International features automated immigration gates. Bermuda’s resort stock is also on the rise, with Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa and The St. Regis Bermuda offering luxurious accommodations.

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6.2 Cayman Islands

As of fall 2022, Cayman Airways flies nonstop from Los Angeles International to Grand Cayman, the first direct route from the West Coast. Visitors will find new