Capture the Magic: 12 Insta-Worthy Travel Destinations
The New Year is synonymous with change, which makes it an excellent time for excitement and adventure.
2022 was definitely the year for "revenge travel," and I don't think 2023 is going to be any different. More countries are reopening for tourism, many hotels stymmied by the pandemic are finally welcoming new guests and airlines worldwide are rebuilding their supply of flights to (hopefully!) meet travelers' demands.
That said - where should 2023 take you?
If you haven't started to think about this year's much-deserved vacation, take a look below to see some of my suggestions that would make incredible getaways.
Lake Louise, Banff National Park, Canada
Why You Should Visit: Lake Louise is a year-round destination, located in Banff National Park. Known for its Insta-worthy turquoise glacier lake and stunning mountain range, Lake Louise draws both the adventurer and leisurely traveler. Hiking, canoeing, and rock climbing are popular summer activities, while skiing, skating and tubing are equally popular in winter.
If you're feeling adventurous, hike the Plain of Six Glaciers for incredible views while you catch your breath over cocoa at the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House.
Hotel Spotlight: Stay at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and book with me to unlock exclusive perks.
Provence, France
Why You Should Visit: Everyone thinks of Paris when considering a trip to France, but there is so much more to France than the bustling City of Lights. If you're looking for something a bit more laid back - or an additional destination to add onto your Paris trip - make your way to the southeastern province of Provence. Bordering Italy and the Mediterranean sea, Provence is known for its idyllic farms, lavender fields, centuries-old wineries and picture-perfect villages.
A must for foodies and couples looking for a romantic French getaway.
Hotel Spotlight: Stay at La Bastide de Marie and book with me to unlock exclusive perks.
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Why You Should Visit: The obvious reason is Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and the other stunning ruins and temples at Angkor. But there's much more to see in Siem Reap on any budget - hip hotels, a ton of dining options, relaxing spas, shopping and tours that will sate all your cultural and curious interests. History buffs will definitely feel at home here, but so will nature lovers and photographers.
It's the perfect bucket list destination to check off whether you're traveling as a couple, group or solo.
Hotel Spotlight: Stay at Anjali by Syphon and book with me to unlock exclusive perks.
Telluride, Colorado
Why You Should Visit: Once a mining town, Telluride reinvented itself to one of the most popular ski towns in the Rocky Mountains. In the historic town center you'll find the Sheridan Opera House, originally built in 1913, and Historical Museum housed in a converted hospital originally built in 1896. While skiing is Telluride's call to fame, summers are just as popular. Nature lovers can take to the once snow-covered trails to hike or bike. Lakes and alpine creeks offer swimming, kayaking and fishing opportunities. Summer is also festival season - with bluegrass, jazz, blues and rock often the entertainment backdrop from the iconic Town Park. And in June, hot balloons take to the skies.
Hotel Spotlight: Stay at Madeline Hotel and book with me to unlock exclusive perks.
Turks and Caicos
Why You Should Visit: White sand beaches and turquoise blue waters, of course. Turks and Caicos has been experiencing a redevelopment wave, which is bringing new hotels to more remote parts of the island chain. Here you can find anything from Mediterranean style villas with your own private pool, clifftop villas overlooking a secluded beach, and more luxe grand resorts. Like with any Caribbean island destination, there is no shortage of island vibes, sunbathing and water activities. Divers will definitely enjoy the 14-mile barrier reef on Provo's north shore, and a dramatic underwater wall off Grand Turk island.
Hotel Spotlight: Stay at Sailrock Resort and book with me to unlock exclusive Fora perks.
Iceland
Why You Should Visit: I will never not tell you to go to Iceland. Crowned as the land of fire and ice, Iceland has it all - sweeping vistas, incredible hikes, out of this world landscape, an endless amount of waterfalls, hot springs and the occasional volcano eruption. In the summer, you will have endless white nights, making touring the country extra special since you'll be able to snatch some of the famous landmarks all to yourself. In the winter, the sky will be lit by the northern lights.
Iceland can definitely be an adventurous kind of vacation, but if you'd like someone else to do the driving, there are multi-day tours that will take you to pretty much every notable spot.
Hotel Spotlight: Stay at ION Adventure Hotel and book with me to unlock exclusive perks.
Sacred Valley, Peru
Why You Should Visit: Peru's Sacred Valley is best known for its bucket list highlight - Machu Picchu. Inca ruins and authetic Peruvian villages can be found throughout the Sacred Valley, making it a truly culturally-immersive trip as visitors weave through the Andes. For the adventurous at heart, white water rafting, mountain biking and paragliding are just a few of the more exhilirating activites to do in the Valley.
Hotel Spotlight: Stay at Rio Sagrado and book with me to unlock exclusive perks.
Menorca, Spain
Why You Should Visit: Menorca is often called Majorca's little brother. Attracting fewer visitors, thus making it a much quieter vibe, Menorca still boasts over 200 kilometers of coastline across 75 unspoiled beaches and hidden swimming coves. The island is laid back and its beaches uncrowded, making it ideal for families.
There's water activities aplenty - water skiing, windsurfing, kayaking, snorkeling. You can even explore some of the island's shipwrecks! While there, make sure to check out Port Mahon - the second-largest natural harbor in the world.
Hotel Spotlight: Stay at Can Alberti 1740 Hotel Boutique and book with me to unlock exclusive Fora perks.
Egypt
Why You Should Visit: If you've ever wanted to live out your childhood dreams of visiting Egypt, this would be the year to do it. The Grand Egyptian Museum (the GEM) in Giza, set to be the largest archeological museum in the world, is expected to finally open after 20 years in development, unveiling its wealth of treasures including, but not limited to, the entire collection of King Tut's tomb. If the Pyramids themselves aren't enough to get you there, the GEM sure should.
In addition, there is an abundance of tour opportunities in Egypt these days. From short one-week trips hitting the highlights, to longer more in-depth tours taking you from Cairo to Luxor, on a Nile cruise to Aswan and everything in between.
Hotel Spotlight: Stay at Fairmont Nile City and book with me to unlock exclusive perks.
Porto, Portugal
Why You Should Visit: Porto is the second largest city in Portugal, yet has managed to maintain its historic charm. Loaded with centuries-old history, it's easy to get lost among its cobblestone streets and beautiful azulejo tiles. Foodies will love Porto's many walking food tours, restaurants and cafes.
Located along the Douro River, it's the perfect home base for a Douro Valley day tour. And with nonstop flight options from the East Coast of the US, it's a perfect start or ending point to your Portugal trip.
Hotel Spotlight: Stay at Torel 1884 and book through me to unlock exclusive perks.
Fiji
Why You Should Visit: It's hard to find any arguments against turquoise waters, coral reefs and sandy beaches across hundreds of peaceful islands. But a real highlight this year is that since Fiji only recently re-opened its doors, it has not yet seen the influx of visitors found at more accessible destinations. That's good news for the people looking to experience Fiji's rugged landscapes and palm-lined beaches, which make it an incredible Insta-worthy getaway.
Definitely a must for solo travelers and couples. Planning a honeymoon? Fiji is calling.
Hotel Spotlight: Stay at Six Senses Fiji and book with me to unlock exclusive perks.
Belize
Why You Should Visit: There are direct flights from a dozen North American airports, making Belize an easy-to-reach Central American destination. The Belizean coast is a popular stop, with Ambergris Caye sitting right next to the Belize Barrier Reef--the world's second largest coral reef system--and the Great Blue Hole further south--a massive underwater sinkhole. It's no wonder divers flock to Belize. There's a lot more than sandy beaches and water activities, however. Heading inland will find you among lush rainforests, Mayan architectural sites, winding rivers and cave networks.
Hotel Spotlight: Whether you prefer to stay put or split your time between Gaia Riverlodge and Matachica Resort and Spa, book with me to unlock exclusive perks.
