Tripadvisor, the undisputed leader of online travel guidance websites, has released its 2023 Travelers Choice Best of the Best Destination Awards.
Taking into account genuine reviews from travel community members worldwide, the top destinations are categorized into six lists and focus on the best in each area: trending, nature, food, culture, ski, and popular.
Here Are Tripadvisor’s Worldwide Top 10 Trending Destinations For 2023:
Cuba
While it’s been a popular spot for vacations with European travelers in the past, Cuba is having a moment with American travelers now that it’s easier than ever to visit.
Of course, do keep in mind that there are some things to be aware of before visiting, especially if you are traveling on an American passport.
While it’s very doable to visit this colorful destination, it does require a bit more planning beforehand than some other places.
Hoi An, Vietnam
Vietnam is seeing a huge post-pandemic tourist boom, especially with Americans.
After being off limits for a couple of years, it seems Vietnam is trending again, and no place more so than the historic town of Hoi An.
With a UNESCO World Heritage old town set upon the banks of the Thu Bon River, Hoi An has something for everyone.
From the picturesque streets to the steaming bowls of Pho, It’s no wonder Hoi An is trending with travelers this year.
Mauritius
This Indian Ocean island is becoming a favorite with travelers looking to avoid the increasingly crowded and expensive tourist beach meccas of the Mediterranean of the Caribbean.
Mauritius offers over 330 kilometers of coastline, and this island is known for its coral reef, friendly locals, and natural beauty.
Aside from travelers, Mauritius is also growing in popularity amongst digital nomads as well.
Siem Reap, Cambodia
While there is no shortage of awe-inspiring sites to see in the vast county of Cambodia, Siem Reap is hands down a traveler’s favorite.
Get picked up from the airport by a tuk-tuk and head into town. Hit the bar street for cheap beers and iconic street food.
Wake up early and wander amongst the temples and ruins of Angkor Wat, and watch the sun come up before the tour buses roll in.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
While there is certainly no shortage of places to visit in Thailand, one favorite destination in the Land Of Smiles lies far from the beach.
If you are tempted to explore over 300 Buddhist temples in a town that’s nestled in a valley surrounded by a river and cool lush mountainsides, then Chiang Mai is your kind of place.
In addition to being a trending destination this year, Chiang Mai has also been named one of the safest destinations in Southeast Asia for travelers.
Grand Cayman, Caribbean
This Caribbean paradise is trending with travelers this year for many reasons, and those who are seeking sun, sand, and tranquil beaches are planning on heading to Grand Cayman to soak up some island vibes.
Grand Cayman scores high marks with travelers looking for postcard-perfect beaches, safety, world-class snorkeling and diving, and Caribbean arts and culture.
Fes, Morocco
Morocco has been making tourism headlines recently, as the country is embracing its popularity with travelers and offering more routes and options.
This North African gem is bursting with culture, history, sites, food, and overall charm.
From exploring the maze-like streets of the medinas to camping in the desert, you have no shortage of options here.
The ancient imperial city of Fes is trending with trailers this year, and one can’t-miss thing to see is the country’s largest open-air tannery.
Baku, Azerbaijan
Considered a relatively safe destination in Eastern Europe, Azerbaijan is on travelers’ minds this year.
The capital city of Baku is trending with those who are looking for up-and-coming destinations that have not been overly saturated with tourists, and travelers who venture here will find a fascinating mix of both European and Asian cultures.
A must-do while in Baku is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the walled Old City, offering visitors the chance to see what life was like here from the 12th to the 16th century.
Kathmandu, Nepal
Not only is it known as the gateway to the Himalayas, but the Kathmandu Valley holds an impressive seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ranging from Patan to Change Narayan.
A long-term favorite amongst trekkers and backpackers, Kathmandu is coming into its own as a destination for all types of travelers nowadays.
With the stunning vistas of the mountain peaks in the background and the wandering alleys full of colorful textiles and steaming dumpling shops, a trip to Kathmandu is a bit like stepping into another world.
Krakow, Poland
In addition to making the Tripadvisor Travelers Choice Best of The Best list, CNN has also named Poland one of the top 7 destinations to visit in the world this year.
While Poland has a large number of places that a worth a visit, it’s the country’s second city of Krakow that is trending with travelers this year.
People love the fairytale streets and colorful buildings lining the squares, not to mention the churches and castles. History lovers also rank Krakow highly, as there are many museums and historic sites here to choose from.
Of course, not very far from the city, you can visit Auschwitz, likely one of the most somber experiences a traveler can have.
