Top 5 Travel Destinations You Should Visit in 2023!

Happy New Year, world travelers! At this moment, 2023 is a year brimming with possibility, just waiting for you to fill in the next pages of your story. If you'd like to include some amazing vacations in that story, you've come to the right place! Here are my Top 5 Travel Destinations to consider in the new year.

1. Budapest, Hungary

One of Europe's most overlooked gems, Budapest is a beautiful city split by the Danube river that appeals to visitors of all ages and interests. A combination of Old World wonder and modern charm, this city presents a rich and vibrant mixture of history, art, nightlife, and culture. Some of the many highlights of Hungary's capital include the Buda Castle, Hungarian Parliament, Thermal Baths, and the Hungarian State Opera House. This is an affordable and memorable trip to consider in 2023. If looking to plan a trip to this lovely destination, the ideal months to visit are March through May and September through November according to U.S. News Travel.

2. Santorini, Greece

This breathtaking island destination will appeal to history buffs and sunbathers alike. The Santorini Archipelago, created from volcanic activity, is one of the most mesmerizing locations of the Mediterranean nations. The capital, Fira, is believed to be the place where the legendary lost city of Atlantis was located, before being swept into the sea. Don't let this scare you, however, as this is truly an amazing place to visit. Stroll along vibrant beaches like Kamari, explore ancient sites like the cities of Thira and Akrotiri, and give your taste buds a treat at wineries like Santo Wines and Domaine Sigalas. To avoid crowds, it is recommended that you plan to visit between April and May or September and October.

3. Zion National Park, Utah

One of the most stunning, and lesser-known, U.S. National Parks is Zion, located in Southwestern Utah. Described by the National Park Foundation as "an oasis amidst the desert", Zion is an ecological masterpiece, teeming with life. It rests at the meeting point of the Great Basin, Mojave Desert, and Colorado Plateau, creating a unique landscape and environment. Canyons, peaks, hiking trails like the famed Angel's Landing, and activities surrounding the Virgin River are just some of the naturally captivating aspects of this destination. There are many wonderful places to rest after long days spent in the great outdoors, such as Majestic View Lodge, situated less than three miles from the Park's entrance. One can stand on the balcony of their room and watch the sun rise above the mountains that surround them, offering an almost ethereal experience. April is widely considered the most ideal month to visit, as the canyons and cliffs spring to life.

4. Rome, Italy

They say all roads lead to Rome, and if you haven't been to this iconic location yet, your roads have to take you there this year! This city's enchantment never fades and its formidable status as a timeless destination is rightly deserved. It seems that, with every step in this city, one cannot help but learn some piece of history, gaze upon intricate artwork, or be lured to an aromatic dish just around the corner. See historic landmarks like the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Sistine Chapel, take a rejuvenating walk in one of the many piazzas such as the first modern square in Rome, Piazza del Campidoglio, and visit museums such as the prestigious Galleria Borghese or the Baroque-style Palazzo Barberini. Like many of my previously mentioned locations, the best time to travel to Rome is April through May and September through November.

5. Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Known by some as 'the green parish', Ocho Rios is one of the best places in all of the Caribbean to travel to! This verdant landscape, surrounded by luscious foliage and babbling waterfalls, is home to some fantastic attractions and activities. Take a refreshing climb in Dunn's River Falls, have an exhilarating experience ziplining through Mystic Mountain Rainforest, and venture into White River for bamboo rafting through places like Blue Hole with gorgeous turquoise waters. Follow this action with some rest and relaxation on one of the countless beaches in the city, allowing the warm sun, sand, and waves to bring you total bliss. What's more, this tropical destination has warm and welcoming weather all year long, beckoning you to visit anytime in the New Year!

All of these alluring locations and more are awaiting your arrival, so what are you waiting for? Book a trip with me today and make memories that will last a lifetime!