It’s hard to think back to those lockdown days when we weren’t allowed to travel abroad, or even venture more than a few miles from our homes. When the majority of travel restrictions lifted in spring, we were raring to get back to the airports. Between April and June 2022, 63 million passengers flew in and out of the UK, according to the UK Civil Aviation Authority – and that’s before we even got to the summer holiday rush.
If you’re already saving up for a holiday next year, travel experts Lonely Planet have named their top destinations for 2023 to give you some inspiration. The list is split into five categories – Eat, Unwind, Journey, Connect and Learn – so you can focus on the aspect of a trip that most appeals to you.
You might have had your fill of staycations over the past few years, but there are two UK destinations that have made the pick of ‘Learn’ hot spots. Lonely Planet said that Manchester ‘has some exciting things happening in 2023’, including ‘a major renovation’ of the Manchester Museum, the expansion of the Manchester Jewish Museum, the opening of the Factory International arts space and the transformation of the historic Castlefield Viaduct into a green walking trail.
Not a UK city this time, but Southern Scotland has also been recommended in the list, especially since travelling there from London will be much easier thanks to a new, more affordable electric train link. ‘Instead of heading to the Highlands, aim for the Borders and other areas of Southern Scotland to learn more about the country’s history and famous residents like writer Robert Burns,’ the guide recommends.
Lima, Peru. Getty Images
When it comes to travelling abroad, Lima in Peru ‘should top every foodie’s travel list’ according to Lonely Planet, mainly thanks to its fresh seafood. Halkidiki in Greece is one of the gorgeous spots recommended to unwind with its ‘blissful beaches’. Check out the full list below…
The top trending travel destinations for 2023
Eat
Lima, Peru
Umbria, Italy
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Fukuoka, Japan
South Africa
Montevideo, Uruguay
Journey
Novia Scotia, Canada
Bhutan
Zambia
Western Australia
Parques Nacionales Naturales de Colombia
Istanbul to Sofia Train
Unwind
Halkidiki, Greece
Jamaica
Dominica
Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Malta
Malta
Accra, Ghana
Albania
Sydney
Guyana
Alaska
Boise
Sydney. Getty Images
Learn
New Mexico, USA
Marseille
Manchester, UK
Dresden, Germany
El Salvador
Southern Scotland
