The Best Places for Tourists to Travel this Year

It is difficult to recommend a specific place for tourists to travel in 2023, as it will depend on many factors such as personal preferences, budget, and safety and health concerns related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Some popular tourist destinations may still have restrictions in place, while others may have fully reopened. It's important to check the most up-to-date information from local authorities and the World Health Organization, and consider any travel restrictions that may be in place, before planning a trip. Additionally, many countries have been advised to think of a plan B, in case the situation with pandemic change abruptly and causes lockdown. I've mentioned some of the top tourist destinations below.

Peru

Peru is a popular destination for tourists due to its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and historic sites. Some of the most famous tourist attractions in Peru include Machu Picchu, the Nazca Lines, the Amazon rainforest, and Lake Titicaca. The country is also known for its delicious cuisine and vibrant festivals. Many visitors also enjoy hiking and exploring the Andes Mountains and visiting the many archaeological sites from the Inca empire. Overall, Peru offers a wide range of activities and experiences that make it a great place to visit.

Some of the best places for tourists to visit in Peru include:

• Machu Picchu: One of the most popular tourist destinations in Peru, Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca citadel located high in the Andes mountains. Visitors can explore the ruins, take in the breathtaking views, and learn about the history and culture of the Inca people.

• Cusco: The ancient capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is a charming city known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, museums, and traditional markets. Visitors can explore the city's many churches, temples and plazas, and take a day trip to the Sacred Valley.

• Lake Titicaca: Located on the border of Peru and Bolivia, Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the lake, visit the floating islands of Uros, and learn about the traditional way of life of the local communities.

• Colca Canyon: Located in the Andes, Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the world, and it is home to a variety of flora and fauna, and also the famous Andean Condor. Visitors can take a hike or a bike tour to explore the canyon and its surrounding villages, and learn about the traditional way of life of the local communities.

• Iquitos: This city is located in the Amazon rainforest and it is the largest city in the world that cannot be reached by road. Visitors can take a boat trip to explore the Amazon rainforest, learn about the local communities, and see a variety of wildlife.

When it comes to cheap tickets on flights to Peru, the best way to find them is to book in advance and be flexible with your travel dates. Also, you can check budget airlines that fly to nearby airports, or try to book during low season, which is typically between April and October. Also, consider combining your trip with other destinations in South America, as it can save you money on flights.

In addition to these places, Peru also has many other hidden gems, like archaeological sites, national parks, and beach towns. Peru is also known for its diverse cuisine, which is a mix of indigenous, Spanish and Asian influences, and it's worth trying while you are there.

Namibia

Namibia is a popular tourist destination known for its diverse landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage. Some of the top attractions in Namibia include:

• Etosha National Park: This large game reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and giraffes. Visitors can also see a number of bird species and other animals in the park.
• Sossusvlei: This is a clay pan located in the Namib Desert, known for its towering red sand dunes and stunning sunrises and sunsets.
• Fish River Canyon: This is the second largest canyon in the world, after the Grand Canyon in the United States. It stretches for about 160 kilometers (99 miles) and is up to 27 kilometers (17 miles) wide. The Fish River Canyon is a popular spot for hikers, who can trek along the canyon floor during the cooler months of the year (May to September). The Canyon is estimated to be around 160,000,000 years old.

Egypt

Egypt is a popular tourist destination known for its ancient history and archaeology, including the pyramids, the Sphinx, and the temples of Luxor and Karnak. The Nile River, with its cruises and fellucas, is also a major draw for tourists. Other popular destinations in Egypt include the beaches of Hurghada and Sharm El-Sheikh, as well as the cities of Cairo and Alexandria. However, there are also some travel warning should be considered before visiting Egypt, such as crime and terrorism, it's always good to check the latest security and travel advisory before planning your trip.

Sicily & Sardinia

Sicily and Sardinia are both popular tourist destinations in Italy. Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and beautiful beaches. Some popular tourist attractions in Sicily include the ancient city of Syracuse, the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, and the Greek theater in Taormina. In addition, there are several active volcanoes on the island, including Mt. Etna, which is a popular destination for hikers.

Sardinia is an island located in the western Mediterranean Sea and is known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and rugged landscapes.

Maldives

The Maldives is a popular tourist destination known for its clear blue waters, white sand beaches, and lush tropical vegetation. Visitors to the Maldives can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, snorkeling, diving, and sunbathing. The Maldives is also home to a diverse array of marine life, including a wide variety of colorful fish, coral reefs, and sea turtles. Additionally, the Maldives has luxury resorts and spas, making it a popular destination for honeymooners and those looking for a high-end tropical vacation. 

The Maldives experience hot, dry weather in January with lots of sunshine. There might be a little rain, but it goes by quite quickly at this time of year. It's a fantastic month to travel to the Maldives, although reservations are strongly suggested. For diving and snorkelling, the visibility is excellent.

The Maldives is a tropical paradise located in the Indian Ocean, known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and abundant marine life. Some of the best places for tourists to visit in the Maldives include:

• Malé: The capital of the Maldives, Malé is a small island city that is known for its bustling markets, historical sites, and vibrant local culture. Visitors can explore the 17th-century Hukuru Miskiy mosque, take a stroll through the local markets, and visit the Maldives National Museum.

• Ari Atoll: This atoll, located in the west of Maldives, is known for its beautiful beaches and diving spots. Visitors can take a day trip to Ari Atoll to explore the coral reefs and encounter with a variety of marine life such as manta rays, dolphins, and sharks.

• Baa Atoll: This atoll is known for its rich biodiversity and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Visitors can visit the Hanifaru Bay, famous for the large congregations of manta rays and whale sharks.

• Vaadhoo Island: This small island is known for its beach and the natural phenomenon of bioluminescent plankton in the water which is visible at night. Visitors can take a boat trip at night to see the glowing plankton, creating a beautiful blue light show.

• Lhaviyani Atoll: This atoll is known for its diving and snorkeling sites, it's a great place to see a variety of marine life such as turtles, eagle rays and a variety of colorful fish.

When it comes to cheap tickets on flights to Maldives, the best way to find them is to book in advance and be flexible with your travel dates. Also, you can check budget airlines that fly to nearby airports, or try to book during low season, which is typically between May and November. Also, consider all-inclusive packages that include accommodation, meals and activities, as it can save you money.

In addition to these places, Maldives also has many other hidden gems, like deserted islands, sand banks, and secret lagoons. Maldives is also known for its luxury resorts and overwater bungalows, which offer an exclusive and unique experience.

Mexico’s East Cape

The East Cape region of Mexico, located on the eastern side of the Baja California peninsula, is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and abundant marine life. It is a popular destination for tourists who enjoy activities such as swimming, snorkeling, diving, fishing, and kiteboarding. The region is also home to a number of small towns, such as Los Barriles and Buena Vista, where visitors can experience traditional Mexican culture and cuisine. Overall, the East Cape is considered a great place for tourists to travel, particularly those interested in outdoor activities and a laid-back atmosphere.

Japan

The east cape of Japan, also known as the Pacific coast of the Tohoku region, is known for its rugged beauty and outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and hot springs. Some popular tourist destinations in the area include the Oirase River, a picturesque mountain stream that flows through a dense forest; the Towada-Hachimantai National Park, which features hiking trails, waterfalls, and hot springs; and the Matsushima Bay, which is known for its picturesque views of over 260 small islands. It also offers a diverse cultural experience with temples & shrines.

Colombia

Colombia is a popular destination for tourists due to its diverse culture, history, and natural attractions. The country has a wide range of options for visitors, from the bustling cities of Bogotá and Medellín to the coffee region and the Caribbean coast. There are also many opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and rafting. Additionally, Colombia is known for its vibrant festivals and delicious cuisine. However, as with any travel, it is important to research and plan ahead, and be aware of the current travel restrictions and safety situation in the country.

Some General Tips on What to Consider When Choosing a Travel Destination:

Safety: Make sure to check the safety and security situation of the destination you are considering, especially during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. This includes information on travel restrictions, quarantine measures, and local health and safety guidelines.

Accessibility: Consider the ease of getting to and around the destination. This includes information on flight and transportation options, as well as the availability of infrastructure and services such as hotels, restaurants, and tour operators.

Interests: Think about what activities and experiences you are interested in, and choose a destination that aligns with your interests. For example, if you're interested in culture, history, and art, consider destinations that offer rich cultural experiences and historical sites.

Sustainability: Look for destinations that are making an effort to be sustainable and environmentally friendly. This includes destinations that are working to reduce their carbon footprint, protect their natural resources, and support local communities.

Budget: It's important to consider your budget when choosing a travel destination. Some destinations may be more expensive than others, and you'll want to make sure you choose a destination that fits within your budget. And book the cheap flight tickets possible to your destination. 

Timing: Keep in mind the weather and peak tourist season of the destination. Some destinations are best visited during certain months of the year, while others may be best avoided during peak tourist season.

Patricia_Hart Member since January 12, 2023