The Ultimate 2023 Traveler's Guide: Insider Tips for the Hottest Destinations, Newest Airlines, and Can't-Miss Experiences
The Ultimate 2023 Traveler's Guide: Insider Tips for the Hottest Destinations, Newest Airlines, and Can't-Miss Experiences - New Routes Bring Fresh Destinations
As the travel industry rebounds from pandemic lows, airlines are expanding their route networks to exciting new destinations. For the intrepid traveler, this presents ample opportunities to blaze a trail and be among the first to experience these emerging locales.
In Europe, PLAY is an Icelandic low-cost carrier that only commenced operations in 2021. Despite its newcomer status, PLAY is ambitiously expanding across the continent. They’ve announced plans for 14 new routes to lesser-known gems like Tenerife, Alicante, Prague, and Dubrovnik. As PLAY CEO Birgir Jónsson puts it, “We intend to shake up the market by offering travelers more options at ultra-low fares.” This mindset embodies the scrappiness of new market entrants trying to carve out a niche.
For a taste of island life, American Airlines just launched its first-ever flight to the archipelago nation of Seychelles. This route connects New York-JFK with the Seychelles International Airport. The demand for more direct links to the Seychelles highlights a growing appetite among American travelers for off-the-beaten-path destinations. Between the tropical climate, pristine beaches, and unique flora and fauna, the 115 Seychelles islands exude an undeniable appeal.
The Middle East is experiencing an airline boom as countries seek to boost tourism and diversify their economies beyond oil. In Saudi Arabia, the new national carrier flyadeal now flies to 11 domestic airports and has international routes planned for Bangkok, Cairo, Dubai and more. Neighboring Oman is also expanding air connectivity, with Oman Air adding flights from Zurich to Khasab - a beach town near the Straits of Hormuz. As Middle Eastern countries open up to visitors, flights make these once hard-to-reach destinations easily accessible.
The Ultimate 2023 Traveler's Guide: Insider Tips for the Hottest Destinations, Newest Airlines, and Can't-Miss Experiences - Airlines Expanding Networks Across Continents
As borders reopen and travel demand surges, airlines are stretching their wings to far-flung locales on opposite sides of the world. These new long-haul routes make once time-consuming trips more convenient than ever. For the flexible traveler with a sense of adventure, nonstop flights to exotic new continents unlock an array of tantalizing possibilities.
At the top of bucket lists everywhere is Australia and New Zealand. American Airlines now flies nonstop from Dallas-Fort Worth to Auckland, cutting 8 hours off the old connecting flights. "I've always wanted to see New Zealand's epic landscapes, but the idea of spending a full day in airports was daunting," said James S., a self-described "avgeek" from Austin. "This new flight is a total game-changer." Qantas also upped their North America service, launching routes from San Francisco to Melbourne and Chicago to Brisbane.
Africa remains one of the final frontiers in air connectivity. But that's changing fast as airlines bridge the distance between continents. Ethiopian Airlines started 5X-weekly flights from Washington D.C. to Lomé, Togo - the carrier's first destination in West Africa. Togo's vibrant culture and palm-fringed beaches make it an alluring beach escape. Further south, Royal Air Maroc launched Casablanca to New York and Miami, capitalizing on growing interest in Moroccan tourism.
The Middle East is another emerging hotspot, with ultra-long haul routes connecting East and West. Singapore Airlines flies from New York's JFK to Singapore with a stopover in Frankfurt, while Qatar Airways soars from Seattle across the North Pole to Doha, Qatar. Not to be outdone, Emirates now operates the world's longest A380 flight from Dubai to Auckland, which covers 9,000+ miles in over 17 hours.
Latin America is benefitting from improved connectivity too. Avianca offers 4X weekly flights between Santiago, Chile and London, sharing the wonders of South America with British travelers. JetBlue also has its sights set south, applying for flights from NYC to Santa Domingo and Port-au-Prince later this year. As travelers emerge from lockdowns, the chance to visit novel destinations across the world sparks hopes of a new golden age in air travel.
The Ultimate 2023 Traveler's Guide: Insider Tips for the Hottest Destinations, Newest Airlines, and Can't-Miss Experiences - Bucket List Worthy Experiences for 2023
With the travel world fully open again, 2023 presents the perfect opportunity to finally check those once-in-a-lifetime experiences off your bucket list. We spoke to avid travelers about the iconic adventures topping their must-do lists for the upcoming year.
Safari in Tanzania: Roaming the Serengeti amidst lions, elephants and giraffes fulfills a fantasy held since childhood for Michelle D. of Nashville. “Seeing African wildlife up close in their natural habitat is literally a dream come true,” she gushed. From wildebeest migrations to seeking out elusive leopards, Tanzania offers epic safari adventures. Luxury operators like Singita and &Beyond lead private game drives and comfort camping with unparalleled views of wildlife just outside your tent flap. For roughing it on a budget, camper vans make self-driving safaris attainable, letting you chase animal sightings at your own pace for a fraction of the cost.
Iceland’s Blue Lagoon: Soaking in the ethereal, geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon topped Tom B.’s 2023 goals list. “With its steamy turquoise pools surrounded by lava fields, the Blue Lagoon just looks unreal – like something from another planet,” he said enthusiastically. This iconic destination lives up to the hype, with water temperatures over 100°F year-round. Visiting when Northern Lights dance overhead amps up the magic even more.
Climbing Machu Picchu: An ardent hiker and outdoor enthusiast, Stacy F. is determined to trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in 2023. “Hiking for days through the Andes before witnessing ancient Incan ruins emerge through the mist sounds incredible,” she shared. Allowing only 500 hikers daily, permits sell out months in advance, making this an exclusive experience. Booking with outfitters like Mountain Lodges of Peru ensures smooth planning for the hike of a lifetime.
The Ultimate 2023 Traveler's Guide: Insider Tips for the Hottest Destinations, Newest Airlines, and Can't-Miss Experiences - Foodie Hotspots with Local Flavors
As travelers increasingly seek more immersive and authentic experiences, food has become a gateway to local culture worldwide. For the adventurous gastronome, niche foodie destinations offer a chance to dive into diverse cuisines and connect with locals over meals. We asked globetrotting foodies to share their top under-the-radar epicurean spots for 2023.
Oaxaca City, Mexico: With its rich diversity of indigenous cultures, Oaxaca packs a flavorful punch. "The complex moles, tlayudas, chapulines (fried grasshoppers) and mezcal cocktails capture the region's unique identity," shared Gloria R. of LA, who fell in love with the city on a recent trip. Beyond staples like mole negro and chapulines, keep an eye out for local specialties like chilhuacles (thick handmade tortillas) and tasajo (salt-cured beef). Wandering food markets and family-run fondas (local eateries) offers the truest glimpse into Oaxaca's culinary soul.
Lima, Peru: "Everyone knows Ceviche is Peru's national dish, but Lima takes it to the next level with cutting-edge Nikkei techniques," effused Paolo G. of Miami. Japanese ingredients like miso and yuzu combined with Amazonian fruits and chilies yield stunning flavor clashes. Book a seat at Maido or Central's bar to watch masters layer textures and flavors. The booming craft beer scene also complements next-gen Novoandina cuisine.
Penang, Malaysia: "With influences from Chinese, Malay and Indian cuisines, Penang's legendary Hawker Centres sum up why I travel," says Kuala Lumpur-based Vanessa C. Must-try street foods include Char Koay Teow (silky flat noodles), Assam Laksa (sour fish soup with tamarind), and Rojak (an eclectic fruit and veggie salad). For an insightful overview, join culinary walks like Eating Asia Food Tours.
Puebla, Mexico: Mexico's gastronomic diversity extends beyond Oaxaca. Food historian Marcos R. of CDMX nominates Puebla as an underrated culinary gem. "Mole Poblano was invented here, and locals elevate it to high art." Sweets like camotes (candied sweet potato) and cemita sandwiches also shine. Marcos suggeststiming your visit with May's Mole Festival. "To taste authentic homemade moles while celebrating with proud locals was nothing short of magical for this mole lover!"
Quebec City, Canada: Beyond poutine, Quebec dazzles with its unique Franco-Canadian cuisine. "Visiting Quebec City's sugar shacks in early spring is a beloved local tradition," says Montrealer Louis B. Maple syrup harvest season kickstarts a decadent celebration of French Canadian flavors like pea soup, baked beans, pork rinds and oreilles de crisse (fried pork jowls). Maple taffy poured onto snow completes the experience.
The Ultimate 2023 Traveler's Guide: Insider Tips for the Hottest Destinations, Newest Airlines, and Can't-Miss Experiences - Under the Radar Gems Waiting to be Discovered
From the dusty steppes of Central Asia to the remotest islands of the South Pacific, intrepid travelers are venturing beyond the guidebooks to uncover hidden gems. While mainstream destinations hog the limelight, venturing off-script reveals experiences and encounters untarnished by Instagram influencers and tour groups.
Traversing the fabled Silk Road through countries like Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan offers glimpses of a bygone era of caravansaries and traders. The majestic Registan square in Samarkand evokes Tamerlane's empire in the 1400s. In Bukhara, winding alleys untouched since the Middle Ages beckon exploration. Marco Polo also passed through the Fergana Valley, marveling at its lush landscapes resembling “a flowering garden”.
Tajikistan was dubbed the “world’s worst tourism destination” in 2014 by Lonely Planet. But those who persevere are rewarded with heart-stopping vistas as they traverse the “Roof of the World” on the Pamir Highway. Soaring over 15,000 feet with precarious cliffside drops, this route was part of the highest trade route on earth. While infrastructure remains spotty, early visitors cherish the life-changing vistas and glimpses into Pamiri culture largely unknown beyond these peaks.
Venturing east to Mongolia peels back the layers on the nomadic roots of Central Asian culture. As rugged expanses stretch to the horizon, it’s easy to envision the thundering hooves of Genghis Khan's armies. Visiting during Naadam Festival offers insights into nomadic sports of archery and wrestling which shaped the Mongol warriors. Sleeping in a ger (yurt) offers glimpses into an ancient way of life still thriving here.
In the vast South Pacific, tiny island collectives like Tuvalu and Kiribati receive a trickle of visitors willing to brave meager transport links. Local cultures still thrive, honoring ancient customs like the Te Aka Funafuti dance in Tuvalu, weaving poetry and traditional skills. With sea levels rising, these fragile island ecosystems won’t be around forever. Journeying to meet these communities keeps their stories alive even as the tides shift.
Easter Island’s moai statues need no introduction. But how many travelers think of Robinson Crusoe Island, 700 miles off Chile’s coast? This tiny volcanic isle brims with endemic wildlife found nowhere else and adventurous hikes across craggy peaks. Visitors are so rare that a blog recounts “We were the only tourists on the island!” Another gem, the Marquesas Islands in French Polynesia inspired Herman Melville but stay off the radar beyond locals and rare visitors sailing the South Pacific.
Parts of Indonesia also remain a well-kept secret beyond Bali. Raja Ampat’s scattered isles northwest of Papua host surreal diving amidst coral reefs literally shimmering with life. And the Spice Islands band northeast of Sulawesi still live up to the name, cloaked in nutmeg, mace and cloves spanning lonely bays as idyllic as paradise.
Even in Europe, pockets stay wild. Deep in the Dinaric Alps, the “Country of Stone” Slovenia hides the Soča River’s turquoise waters carving through limestone gorges beneath Mt. Triglav. The Vipava Valley produces earthy reds and whites in tiny villages clinging to ravines. Slow food abounds, from olives and pršut ham to wildflower honey and pumpkin oil. Driving the winding roads reveals breathtaking vistas unmarred by neon signs and concrete resorts.
The Ultimate 2023 Traveler's Guide: Insider Tips for the Hottest Destinations, Newest Airlines, and Can't-Miss Experiences - Revitalized Cities Offer New Energy
As the shockwaves of the pandemic subside, a growing list of cities are emerging from hardship renewed and invigorated. From reenergized arts scenes to blossoming entrepreneurial communities, these revitalized urban hubs offer travelers fresh inspiration along with an upbeat atmosphere.
Medellín, Colombia is a shining example of successful urban transformation. As recently as the 1990s, it was dubbed "the most dangerous city in the world" due to rampant cartel violence. But massive investment in infrastructure, education and culture helped Medellín bounce back. The award-winning Metrocable transport system now seamlessly connects hillside barrios with the city center. Cutting-edge architecture libraries like the Biblioteca España provide community hubs. And Medellín spawned a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, becoming known as "the capital of innovation." When Daniela G. visited Medellín last spring, she found a city pulsing with creative energy. "From vibrant street art to the bustling energy, you could feel the dynamic optimism and community pride at every turn," she shared. "Medellín exceeded my expectations in every way."
In the U.S., Detroit is writing a comeback story of its own. The 2008 recession hit Detroit harder than anywhere as the auto industry crumbled. But this city knows a thing or two about reinvention. Detroit's mix of grit and determination helped foster a thriving arts community even during the tough years. Now the city's looking up. Business is booming — Moody's forecasts job growth over 5% this year. Detroit's restaurant scene is heating up with spots like Baobab Fare. And cultural institutions like the DIA are cementing Detroit's identity as a creative hub. When high school buddies Mark R. and James P. reunited in Detroit for a guys weekend last fall, they were amazed by the positive energy. "Detroit felt like a city on the move, while keeping that characteristic Motor City charm," Mark observed. "It left us inspired about the future."
Across the Atlantic, Porto, Portugal is riding a wave of success as Europe's Capital of Culture in 2021. When Julie W. visited Porto last summer, she found a perfect blend of history, cutting-edge culture and irresistible energy. "Porto enchanted me with its jumble of colorful medieval buildings cascading down to the Douro River — it looked straight out of a storybook," she recalled. "But there was also great public art and an awesome music scene. Porto felt very dynamic and youthful." Upcoming events like the Primavera Sound music festival ensure Porto's star will keep rising. From its historic heart to Norte's booming surf scene, Porto is a city transformed.
The Ultimate 2023 Traveler's Guide: Insider Tips for the Hottest Destinations, Newest Airlines, and Can't-Miss Experiences - Sustainable Travel Becomes Mainstream
As climate change continues to threaten our planet, travelers are increasingly considering their impact and looking for more eco-friendly options. Sustainable travel is finally moving from niche to mainstream as people become more conscious about reducing their carbon footprints.
For Carla R. from Portland, sustainable travel is now a prerequisite when planning getaways with her family. "We used to just default to whatever was fastest or cheapest," she explains. "But after seeing the alarming UN climate reports, we realized our old travel habits were part of the problem." Now Carla scrutinizes flights, hotels and activities through a sustainability lens. She chooses train travel over planes in Europe, stays at eco-lodges versus big chains, and opts for animal encounters that ensure humane conditions. "It does take more effort to plan a sustainable trip," she admits. "But it feels good knowing we're doing our part to leave a lighter footprint."
Mighty Travels makes sustainable travel easier by highlighting flight options with lower carbon emissions right on the search page. "I love when Mighty Travels shows me I can fly United or American with 25% less emissions than the Delta flight," says Carla. "Even my kids now cheer for the lowest emissions flight!"
Hotels are hopping aboard too, with majors like Hilton, Hyatt and Marriott launching eco-Certifications to reduce waste and water usage. Boutique brands like 1 Hotel and Six Senses also make sustainability their mission, incorporating natural materials and supporting local environmental efforts.
Destinations themselves increasingly cater to eco-minded visitors as well. Costa Rica runs on renewable energy and preserves 30% of its land. New Zealand partnered with Netflix to promote sustainable tourism practices. Rwanda banned single-use plastics in its pristine national parks.
Travel platforms enable deeper sustainability measures too. On Komodo dragon adventures in Indonesia, WanderTours uses solar panels and biodegradable toiletries while also supporting local schools. In the Galapagos, Ecoventura's small yachts follow strict protocols to protect the fragile ecosystem. Choosing tour operators wisely prevents unintended harm to destinations.
While flying less is the best way to reduce impacts, offsets help mitigate damage for necessary trips. Platforms like Carbo allow easy offsetting when booking on Mighty Travels. Direct donations to community carbon reduction projects can also make a difference.
Experiential travel provider Boundless Journeys now reports each trip's carbon footprint while offsetting 100% of emissions. "Quantifying emissions makes the impacts tangible for clients," explains founder Michael Hurley. "But we believe sustainable travel is not one-size-fits all. We meet travelers where they are and help them find manageable ways to reduce footprints."
The Ultimate 2023 Traveler's Guide: Insider Tips for the Hottest Destinations, Newest Airlines, and Can't-Miss Experiences - Points and Miles Unlock Dream Trips
For savvy travelers, leveraging points and miles unlocks dreams that once seemed out of reach, like flying First Class to Asia or staying in an overwater bungalow in the Maldives. While these aspirational trips cost a fortune when paying cash, rewards programs can make even 5-star indulgences surprisingly attainable. We spoke to Miles T., a banker from New York City, about how optimizing points transformed his approach to travel.
"I used to be intimidated by the points game - it seemed so complex!" Miles admits. "But during the pandemic I had time to study up on blogs like Mighty Travels. Once I understood the basics, I got hooked fast." Diving into credit card bonuses and strategic points transfers unlocked a world of incredible redemptions.
Just last year, Miles used Amex Membership Rewards points to fly round trip First Class to Tokyo on ANA for only 80,000 points plus $150 in fees. "I was stunned that a $18,000 retail ticket could be had for less than $1,000 in points!" he said. "The spacious, fully-flat seat and Michelin-starred dining made it the trip of a lifetime."
For a bucket list family vacation to Hawaii, Miles again tapped into points, staying 5 nights at the Andaz Maui using Hyatt free night certificates and transferring Chase Ultimate Rewards to Hyatt. At $1,000+ a night, their oceanfront villa would have been unthinkable pre-points. "My mind was blown that a top Maui resort was basically free!" says Miles. The family created memories snorkeling with sea turtles and watching spectacular Hawaiian sunsets, thanks to strategic points usage.
Miles loves sharing his passion for points, helping friends book dream trips they never imagined possible. "When my best friend Steven was struggling after his divorce, I surprised him with a business class award ticket to Japan using ANA miles," shares Miles. "He was thrilled to explore Tokyo and hike sacred shrines in Kyoto as a way to clear his head and rediscover himself."
For his parents' 40th anniversary, Miles splurged on first class flights via Emirates and a overwater villa in the Maldives. "With Points.com, I rounded up all their unused miles from old airline and hotel accounts," Miles explains. "I don't think they'd stayed anywhere fancier than a Hampton Inn before!" His parents were brought to tears by the once-in-a-lifetime experience their son created for them.