NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ANNOUNCES ‘BEST OF THE WORLD 2023’ LIST, UNVEILS 25 EXTRAORDINARY PLACES AND COMMUNITIES TO INSPIRE YOUR NEXT TRIP

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national geographic 2023 travel list

WASHINGTON (Oct. 26, 2022) – As travel continues to make a roaring return in 2022, National Geographic today unveils its annual list of the 25 inspiring destinations for the renewed travel landscape to help individuals get a jump on planning for the year ahead.

For 2023, Nat Geo’s “ Best of the World ” is themed around travel destinations and experiences that leverage the benefits of tourism to strengthen their local communities and environments, both natural and built.

Nat Geo’s “Best of the World” list for the year ahead celebrates destinations and travel experiences that illuminate our beautiful world and the diversity of communities and people within it, grouped by category: Family, Adventure, Culture, Nature.

New this year, however, is a Community category, designed to be inclusive of healing and heritage journeys, community-led conservation efforts, ways for travelers to give back, and locations doing groundbreaking work in eco-tourism, sustainability and inclusive travel. The goal is to spotlight destinations where people make places better for locals, the environment and visitors, and to showcase homegrown, rooted, locally relevant and engaged places to visit.

In total, the 2023 list honors educational journeys for all generations ( Family ); exciting activities in breathtaking places ( Adventure ); explorations of history and heritage ( Culture ); escapes to wild, beautiful places ( Nature ); and healing journeys, community conservation, giving back, sustainable places and more ( Community ).

“We have experienced so many changes and disruptions in the way we explore over the last few years, so with this year’s list, we really wanted to get back to identifying positive stories about destinations and communities,” said Amy Alipio, senior editor at National Geographic Travel. “With our team of travel experts and editors, we took a deeper dive into places all over the globe that are providing experiences that are unique and beneficial for both locals and travelers: locations where visitors ultimately sustain and support—not damage—the destination’s environment and community. We also worked hard to provide lesser-known gems on the list, equally inspiring alternatives to destinations that have become overcrowded (think Choquequirao vs. Machu Picchu in Peru).”

“Best of the World’ is Nat Geo’s annual love letter to the most incredible places in the world, both near and far,” said Nathan Lump, National Geographic’s Editor-in-Chief. “We couldn’t be prouder to shine a light on these 25 extraordinary places that most inspired us this year, and which we know will define travelers’ itineraries for years to come. From craft breweries and Asia’s top film festival in Busan, South Korea, to women-led Indigenous tourism in Alberta, Canada, and the densest leatherback turtle nesting ground in the world in Trinidad and Tobago, this year’s list reminds us that there is still so much out there to explore and experience.”  

The list was created, researched, reported and written in collaboration with National Geographic Traveler ’s international editorial teams, which serve millions of readers through their magazines and websites in more than a dozen offices around the world.

The “Best of the World 2023” list is available online now at NatGeo.com/BestOfTheWorld , where readers will be transported to each destination through spectacular photography and reporting.

National Geographic’s “Best of the World 2023” list:

Culture Appian Way, Italy Busan, South Korea Longmen Grottoes, Henan Province, China Egypt Charleston, South Carolina

Nature Scottish Highlands Botswana Slovenia Big Bend National Park, Texas Azores

Adventure  New Zealand Choquequirao, Peru Utah Austrian Alps Revillagigedo National Park, Mexico 

Community Dodecanese Islands, Greece Milwaukee, Wisconsin Alberta, Canada Laos Ghana

Family Trinidad and Tobago San Francisco, California Colombia Manchester, UK Switzerland

About National Geographic Media: Nat Geo Media is a worldwide digital, social and print publisher, operating in over 170 countries, with several print and digital products and over a half billion followers on social media. We inspire curious fans of all ages through bold and innovative storytelling about people, places and projects that shape our world, and enable our fans to connect, explore, engage with and care about the world. For more information, visit  nationalgeographic.com , find us on the National Geographic app or visit us on  Facebook ,  Twitter ,  Instagram ,  YouTube ,  LinkedIn ,   Pinterest  and  TikTok .

Media Contacts: Caitlin Holbrook, [email protected] , (716) 225-0502 Anna Kukelhaus, [email protected] , (202) 258-8020 Janean Ruttner, [email protected] , (909) 677-8989 Natalia Colon, [email protected] , (407) 484-1026

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National Geographic Reveals 25 Amazing Places To Travel

national geographic 2023 travel list

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National Geographic has unveiled its annual list of the 25 inspiring destinations for 2023. Nat Geo’s “Best of the World,” is themed around five categories: Family, Adventure, Culture, Nature, and new this year, Community.

“We have experienced so many changes and disruptions in the way we explore over the last few years, so with this year’s list, we really wanted to get back to identifying positive stories about destinations and communities,” said Amy Alipio, senior editor at National Geographic Travel. 

“With our team of travel experts and editors, we took a deeper dive into places all over the globe that are providing experiences that are unique and beneficial for both locals and travelers: locations where visitors ultimately sustain and support — not damage — the destination’s environment and community. We also worked hard to provide lesser-known gems on the list, equally inspiring alternatives to destinations that have become overcrowded (think Choquequirao vs. Machu Picchu in Peru).”

Here is National Geographic’s “ Best of the World ” list for 2023.

Luxor Temple in Egypt

These five destinations were chosen because Nat Geo says they allow you to immerse yourself in history and heritage.

  • Appian Way, Italy: Rome’s “Gateway to the East” is known as Europe’s ancient “superhighway.” It was selected for its ability to take you on a trip through history. 
  • Busan, South Korea: As the nation’s second largest city, it’s known for its beaches, mountains, and temples.
  • Charleston, South Carolina : With its cobblestone streets and Low Country Cuisine, this city allows you to explore culture and history.
  • Egypt: Home to King Tut’s new home at Cairo’s Grand Egyptian Museum and Luxor’s Avenue of the Sphinxes, this country that links northeast Africa to the Middle East dates back to the time of the pharaohs.
  • Longmen Grottoes, Henan Province, China: This is one of the world’s largest collections of Chinese art of the late Northern Wei and Tang Dynasties, made up of 2,300 caves, almost 110,000 Buddhist stone statues, and more.

Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland

Described by Nat Geo as “wildly underrated,” these five destinations will spark a new appreciation for our planet.

  • Scottish Highlands : This mountain region in northwest Scotland has incredible scenery and is praised for its movement to restore the original landscape.
  • Botswana : Located in Southern Africa, this landlocked country is home to several notable animal species like giraffes, cheetahs, and hyenas and is selected for its programs to rehabilitate the species that are endangered.
  • Slovenia : This central European country is known for its mountains, ski resorts, and lakes and was selected for this category for being a longtime leader in sustainable tourism.
  • Big Bend National Park : This park located in southern Texas was chosen because of its surprising landscape.
  • Azores : This is an island region in Portugal known for nature and sustainability, which is why it was selected.
6 Amazing Historic Houses You Can Rent In Scotland

Canyonlands National Park in Utah

These five destinations are chosen by Nat Geo because they’re for those looking for adrenaline-pumping adventure.

  • New Zealand : If you’re looking for a post-pandemic adrenaline rush, you’ll be interested in this country known for adventure; after all, it did invent bungee jumping.
  • Choquequirao, Peru : This Incan site in southern Peru may not be well-known, but it will remind you of the architecture of Machu Picchu.
  • Utah : This landlocked state out west may be known for skiing, but was chosen for this category for the adrenaline rush you can get from the less visited parts.
  • Revillagigedo National Park, Mexico : Known as the “Galápagos of Mexico,” was selected because it holds one of the largest aggregations of sharks and manta rays in the world and is an iconic dive destination.
  • Austria : Located in the southern part of Central Europe, it’s known for castles and palaces, but is becoming more popular for cross-country hikes to sample local culture.

Pha That Luang in Laos

Chosen for being forward-thinking, these five destinations were selected by Nat Geo because they offer opportunities for meaningful travel.

  • Dodecanese Islands, Greece: This is a group of 15 large and 150 small Greek Islands, chosen for this category because there are women-led ventures and sustainable tourism.
  • Milwaukee, Wisconsin : This Great Lakes city is known for its celebration of breweries but was selected because it is becoming known for how it celebrates its culture.
  • Alberta, Canada : This is home to Banff National Park and iconic Lake Louise. The traditional countryside and contemporary perspectives come together here.
  • Laos : Located in southeast Asia, French colonial architecture, hill tribe settlements, and Buddhist monasteries come together here. Chosen for this category because of a new high-speed train that makes lesser-known regions more accessible to tourists and locals.
  • Ghana: This country in West Africa is becoming known for its fashion-forward capital, Accra.

Cartagena, Colombia

Chosen to “inspire the whole family in 2023,” these five destinations are family trips that Nat Geo says will help educate and illuminate.

  • Trinidad and Tobago: As the southernmost island country in the Caribbean, it’s known for beaches and nature. Because of that, it was chosen for its work saving turtles at one of the most important leatherback turtle rookeries in the world.
  • San Francisco, California : You’re probably thinking of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and steep streets, but it was chosen for other activities like Presidio Tunnel campfires and hiking the Crosstown Trail.
  • Colombia : Disney’s Encanto brought this country to a whole new audience. Enjoy the story while also birdwatching in this “avian paradise” of South America.
  • Manchester, England: With a rich industrial heritage, this city mixes history with sports as it’s home to Manchester United.
  • Switzerland : Take a train ride through this country famous for the Alps and chocolate. Take in hiking and skiing as you visit its quaint towns.

To read other articles about where to travel, check out: 

  • 12 Under-The-Radar Tour Destinations For 2023, According To Experts
  • 17 Most Popular Tour Destinations To Visit In 2023, According To Experts
  • 4 Places You Should Travel As Soon As You Retire

Image of Allison Godlove

Allison spent almost 20 years of her career as a TV news anchor. She’s covered everything from political conventions to Super Bowl LV to hurricanes and, most recently, the pandemic. She is a two-time Emmy award-winning journalist. She's been recognized for her work nationally and regionally by organizations including the Associated Press, the Society of Professional Journalists, and the Florida Association of Broadcast Journalists.

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Five extreme US adventures for your 2023 bucket list

Utah has some of the world’s most famous mountain biking trails, and is best suited to experienced riders.

The US is a country known for doing things to the max. The cars are big, the architecture is imposing, the cuisine is legendary, and the natural landscapes are vast and varied. It goes without saying, therefore, that if it's an extreme adventure you’re looking for — be it a challenging hike or death-defying free climb — the US has got you covered. Read on for five recommendations for an American adventure.

1. Mountain bike in Moab, Utah

Moab is the gateway to Utah’s wildest national parks. Although there are many ways to navigate these wild terrains — from 4WD tours to horseback trails — two wheels (or legs) are better than four for adventurous travellers. This particular experience is not suitable for novice mountain bikers, but those with some experience under their belts can expect some epic backcountry roads. For views across Canyonlands National Park, bike the White Rim Trail, which loops around the park and takes you through slickrock, dirt roads, graded gravel and semi-technical rocky doubletrack.

2. Hike Mount Elbert, Colorado

Despite being the highest mountain in Colorado — higher even than neighbouring Mount Massive — Mount Elbert is relatively unknown outside the climbing community. But you don’t have to be Reinhold Messner to summit this mighty peak. The standard route is a manageable class 1 hike with a round-trip distance of 9.5 miles and an elevation gain of 4,700ft. There are multiple camping options for RVs and tents scattered along the route, so there’s no need to rush. Take your time and savour the scenery, as terrains shift and changing weather brings new perspectives to this impressive mountain.

national geographic 2023 travel list

To kayak the entire length of the Grand Canyon is to cover a remarkable 227 miles.

3. Kayak down the Grand Canyon, Arizona

Both challenging and beautiful, the journey from Lees Ferry to Diamond Creek along the Colorado River is a major contender for the best river trip on earth. The full 227-mile stretch takes two to three weeks to complete, and will have thrill-seekers encountering intermediate-level white waters as well as intimidating rapids. Be prepared to have your boat flipped in both Crystal Rapids and Lava Falls, but also prepare yourself for Martian-like landscapes, creek hikes and hidden waterfalls. This is surely the most intimate way to experience the world’s most remarkable geological wonder.

4. Hang glide over Maui, Hawaii

There can’t be many activities more thrilling than hang gliding, and few places are more scenic than the island of Maui. Combine the two and you have a serious adventure on your hands. Both powered hang gliding and fixed-wing tours are common here, so if you’re new to hang gliding but want to see the mountains, lava fields and shores on a more prolonged flight, you won’t be short of options. If you do have the skills to pilot your own set of wings, however, join experienced gliders at Haleakala National Park and take off from midway up the dormant volcano to the valley below.

national geographic 2023 travel list

Yosemite National Park has numerous climbing schools catering to all abilities.

5. Rock climb in Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite is a adventure playground for climbers of all disciplines and abilities. Beginners take lessons, pros hone their skills, and professionals break records tackling the unforgiving rock faces of its giant cliffs at breakneck speed. There are a wide variety of mountaineering schools to prepare budding climbers for the routes, from the winding crack climbs of Bishop’s Terrace and sunny Tuolumne Meadows’ domes to multiday aid climbs on the big walls of the Yosemite Valley. But what goes up must come down, so be sure to familiarise yourself with the abseiling routes before you get too high.

Plan your trip with Battleface

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This content is brought to you by Battleface travel insurance. It does not necessarily reflect the views of National Geographic, National Geographic Traveller (UK) or its editorial staff.

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Best places to travel in 2023: National Geographic unveils list of top 25 destinations for next year

From craft breweries in South Korea to turtle nesting grounds in Trinidad and Tobago, the list highlights adventures near and far.

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Need inspiration for your next travel destination? National Geographic has you covered.

Its "Best of the World 2023" list, unveiled Wednesday, highlights 25 must-see destinations near and far, from craft breweries in Busan, South Korea, to the world's densest leatherback turtle nesting ground in Trinidad and Tobago.

national geographic 2023 travel list

Created in close collaboration with NatGeo's team of travel experts and international editors, "Best of the World" takes a "deeper dive into places all over the globe that are providing experiences that are unique and beneficial for both locals and travelers," Amy Alipio, senior editor at National Geographic Travel.

"We also worked hard to provide lesser-known gems on the list, equally inspiring alternatives to destinations that have become overcrowded (think Choquequirao vs. Machu Picchu in Peru)," Alipio said in a statement.

national geographic 2023 travel list

National Geographic groups the list into five categories: Family , educational journeys for all generations; Adventure , exciting activities in breathtaking places; Culture , explorations of history and heritage; Nature , escapes to wild, beautiful places; and the newly-added Community , healing journeys, community conservation, giving back, sustainable places and more.

Among domestic destinations, Utah is highlighted for its rugged landscape and Milwaukee is featured for its revitalized warehouse district, the Historic Third Ward.

national geographic 2023 travel list

Those jonesing for international adventure should consider The Greek island of Karpathos, a growing center of ecotourism, or Egypt, with its well preserved 4,300-year-old tomb of Khuwy.

National Geographic's "Best of the World 2023" list

national geographic 2023 travel list

  • Appian Way, Italy
  • Busan, South Korea
  • Longmen Grottoes, Henan Province, China
  • Charleston, South Carolina

national geographic 2023 travel list

  • Scottish Highlands
  • Big Bend National Park, Texas

national geographic 2023 travel list

  • New Zealand
  • Choquequirao, Peru
  • Austrian Alps
  • Revillagigedo National Park, Mexico

national geographic 2023 travel list

  • Dodecanese Islands, Greece
  • Milwaukee, Wisconsin
  • Alberta, Canada

national geographic 2023 travel list

  • Trinidad and Tobago
  • San Francisco, California
  • Manchester, UK
  • Switzerland

Find out more about the "Best of the World 2023" list online at NatGeo.com/BestOfTheWorld .

The Walt Disney Co. is the parent company of National Geographic Partners and this ABC station.

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Travel | National Geographic reveals its top destinations for 2023

national geographic 2023 travel list

It’s never too early to start planning for next year’s big trips.

National Geographic is getting an early start, too, releasing its Best of the World list in late October with 25 must-see destinations for 2023.

Respect — for the people and their cultures, for the land and its conservation — is an overarching theme of the list, which is divided into five official categories.

The hope is that 2023 will be not just a big return to travel but also to rediscovering wonder, said Amy Alipio, senior editor for National Geographic Travel.

“Because when you are awed by something, you treat it with respect. And that spirit is something we want to encourage with this list,” Alipio said.

The list focuses on destinations that have community-led conservation efforts, healing and heritage journeys and ways for travelers to give back as well as places that are doing important work in ecotourism, sustainability and inclusive travel.

Looking at community

National Geographic has introduced a new category in this year’s list, replacing “sustainability” with a broader “community” category.

“It’s about broadening the focus on the people striving for sustainable destinations and the various ways that manifests, from making travel more accessible to supporting local businesses,” Alipio said.

Sustainability has been woven into every category a bit more. The other four categories are nature, culture, adventure and family.

The five destinations listed under the “community” heading represent a diverse range of strengths.

Ghana is listed as an important destination for Black heritage travelers in West Africa.

Alberta, Canada also makes the list.

“They have been a leader in Indigenous tourism, basically getting travelers out there learning the stories and the ways of life of the First Nations here in North America,” and their vibrant, contemporary cultures, Alipio said.

In Laos, a new high-speed train is making the country more accessible to visitors and bringing economic opportunity to locals.

The Great Lakes city of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is listed in part because it has been “really supportive of its creative community,” Alipio said, citing Bronzeville, which is opening a cultural center focused on African American art.

And in Greece’s Dodecanese Islands, Karpathos is a standout for sustainable tourism with female leadership.

Elephants graze among the lush waterways of the Okavango Delta in Botswana, which appears in the "nature" category.(Beverly Joubert/Nat Geo Image Collection)

Big openings, small crowds

The list is not without big new attractions. The long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum outside of Cairo figures into Egypt’s appearance on the 2023 list in the “culture” category. And Charleston, South Carolina, will soon be home to the International African American Museum, which is set to open in January.

US wilderness features on the list in two categories, with an emphasis on getting away from the crowds.

Utah, where five national parks are a huge draw, appears in the “adventure” category in part for its efforts to direct tourists to some of its lesser-known areas to combat overtourism.

Visit Utah has a page dedicated to responsible travel where it asks visitors to consider their impact with questions including “Am I doing what I can to avoid crowded locations?” State parks including Dead Horse Point and Goblin Valley are located near one or more of Utah’s five spectacular national parks.

Big Bend National Park in Texas appears in the “nature” category. While Big Bend hosted a record 581,000 recreational visits in 2021, it was still far less visited than some of the United States’ most popular national parks. Yellowstone welcomed 4.9 million visitors and Great Smoky Mountains National Park hosted a whopping 14.1 million recreational visits in 2021.

Slovenia, “a longtime leader in sustainable tourism,” is pairing cycling trails with visits to vineyards, cheesemakers and other food producers in a way that earns it a slot in the “nature” category with a culinary bonus.

The Scottish Highlands, Portugal’s dazzling Azores volcanic archipelago and Botswana also make the “nature” list for their efforts toward conservation and sustainability.

National Geographic is getting an early start releasing its Best of the World list in late October with 25 must-see destinations for 2023.(Marco Bottigelli/Moment RF/Getty Images)

Family, adventure and culture

Colombia has been in the spotlight with the Disney movie “Encanto,” making it a timely choice for the “family” category. In California, San Francisco’s Crosstown Trail is another spot perfect for family adventure.

Speaking of “adventure,” that category also includes Choquequirao, Peru, an Inca site to rival Machu Picchu that is becoming more accessible and spurring economic development.

And New Zealand, long an adventure capital, makes the list as excitement builds with travel’s resurgence.

The Austrian Alps also provide great opportunities for adventure within the Bergsteigerdörfer network of 29 mountaineering villages.

While China remains closed to international tourism, its Longmen Grottoes in Henan Province also make the “culture” list as new technology brings attention to one of the largest collections of stone statues in the world.

For more of National Geographic’s Best of the World list, visit their website .

National Geographic’s Best of the World 2023 list:

Appian Way, Italy Busan, South Korea Longmen Grottoes, Henan Province, China Egypt Charleston, South Carolina

Scottish Highlands Botswana Slovenia Big Bend National Park, Texas Azores

New Zealand Choquequirao, Peru Utah Austrian Alps Revillagigedo National Park, Mexico

Dodecanese Islands, Greece Milwaukee, Wisconsin Alberta, Canada Laos Ghana

Trinidad & Tobago San Francisco Crosstown Trail, California Colombia Manchester, United Kingdom Switzerland

The-CNN-Wire ™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All rights reserved.

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National Geographic reveals its top destinations for 2023

October 26, 2022, 6:01 AM

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It’s never too early to start planning for next year’s big trips.

National Geographic is getting an early start, too, releasing its Best of the World list in late October with 25 must-see destinations for 2023.

Respect — for the people and their cultures, for the land and its conservation — is an overarching theme of the list, which is divided into five official categories.

The hope is that 2023 will be not just a big return to travel but also to rediscovering wonder, said Amy Alipio, senior editor for National Geographic Travel.

“Because when you are awed by something, you treat it with respect. And that spirit is something we want to encourage with this list,” Alipio said.

The list focuses on destinations that have community-led conservation efforts, healing and heritage journeys and ways for travelers to give back as well as places that are doing important work in ecotourism, sustainability and inclusive travel.

Looking at community

National Geographic has introduced a new category in this year’s list, replacing “sustainability” with a broader “community” category.

“It’s about broadening the focus on the people striving for sustainable destinations and the various ways that manifests, from making travel more accessible to supporting local businesses,” Alipio said.

Sustainability has been woven into every category a bit more. The other four categories are nature, culture, adventure and family.

The five destinations listed under the “community” heading represent a diverse range of strengths.

Ghana is listed as an important destination for Black heritage travelers in West Africa.

Alberta, Canada also makes the list.

“They have been a leader in Indigenous tourism, basically getting travelers out there learning the stories and the ways of life of the First Nations here in North America,” and their vibrant, contemporary cultures, Alipio said.

In Laos, a new high-speed train is making the country more accessible to visitors and bringing economic opportunity to locals.

The Great Lakes city of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is listed in part because it has been “really supportive of its creative community,” Alipio said, citing Bronzeville, which is opening a cultural center focused on African American art.

And in Greece’s Dodecanese Islands, Karpathos is a standout for sustainable tourism with female leadership.

Big openings, small crowds

The list is not without big new attractions. The long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum outside of Cairo figures into Egypt’s appearance on the 2023 list in the “culture” category. And Charleston, South Carolina, will soon be home to the International African American Museum, which is set to open in January.

US wilderness features on the list in two categories, with an emphasis on getting away from the crowds.

Utah, where five national parks are a huge draw, appears in the “adventure” category in part for its efforts to direct tourists to some of its lesser-known areas to combat overtourism.

Visit Utah has a page dedicated to responsible travel where it asks visitors to consider their impact with questions including “Am I doing what I can to avoid crowded locations?” State parks including Dead Horse Point and Goblin Valley are located near one or more of Utah’s five spectacular national parks.

Big Bend National Park in Texas appears in the “nature” category. While Big Bend hosted a record 581,000 recreational visits in 2021, it was still far less visited than some of the United States’ most popular national parks. Yellowstone welcomed 4.9 million visitors and Great Smoky Mountains National Park hosted a whopping 14.1 million recreational visits in 2021.

Slovenia, “a longtime leader in sustainable tourism,” is pairing cycling trails with visits to vineyards, cheesemakers and other food producers in a way that earns it a slot in the “nature” category with a culinary bonus.

The Scottish Highlands, Portugal’s dazzling Azores volcanic archipelago and Botswana also make the “nature” list for their efforts toward conservation and sustainability.

Family, adventure and culture

Colombia has been in the spotlight with the Disney movie “Encanto,” making it a timely choice for the “family” category. In California, San Francisco’s Crosstown Trail is another spot perfect for family adventure.

Speaking of “adventure,” that category also includes Choquequirao, Peru, an Inca site to rival Machu Picchu that is becoming more accessible and spurring economic development.

And New Zealand, long an adventure capital, makes the list as excitement builds with travel’s resurgence.

The Austrian Alps also provide great opportunities for adventure within the Bergsteigerdörfer network of 29 mountaineering villages.

Asia, which has been slower to reopen from the pandemic, features prominently in the “culture” category. Busan, South Korea, appears in the category for offerings from craft brews to Asia’s top film festival.

While China remains closed to international tourism, its Longmen Grottoes in Henan Province also make the “culture” list as new technology brings attention to one of the largest collections of stone statues in the world.

For more of National Geographic’s Best of the World list, visit their website .

National Geographic’s Best of the World 2023 list:

Appian Way, Italy Busan, South Korea Longmen Grottoes, Henan Province, China Egypt Charleston, South Carolina

Scottish Highlands Botswana Slovenia Big Bend National Park, Texas Azores

New Zealand Choquequirao, Peru Utah Austrian Alps Revillagigedo National Park, Mexico

Dodecanese Islands, Greece Milwaukee, Wisconsin Alberta, Canada Laos Ghana

Trinidad & Tobago San Francisco Crosstown Trail, California Colombia Manchester, United Kingdom Switzerland

The-CNN-Wire ™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All rights reserved.

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national geographic 2023 travel list

National Geographic releases ‘Best of the World 2023′ with 25 must-see destinations

national geographic 2023 travel list

PHOENIX (3TV/CBS 5) -- National Geographic has unveiled its annual list of ‘Best of the World 2023′, 25 must-see locations across the globe.

This line-up is themed around travel experiences that helps strengthen local communities and environments. Each location is grouped by category: family, adventure, culture, and nature. This year features the community category, meant to focus on ways tourists can give back to the locations they’re visiting!

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“We have experienced so many changes and disruptions in the way we explore over the last few years, so with this year’s list, we really wanted to get back to identifying positive stories about destinations and communities,” said Amy Alipio, senior editor at National Geographic Travel. “We also worked hard to provide lesser-known gems on the list, equally inspiring alternatives to destinations that have become overcrowded (think Choquequirao vs. Machu Picchu in Peru).”

The following list was created in collaboration with National Geographic Traveler’s editorial teams:

  • Appian Way, Italy
  • Busan, South Korea
  • Longmen Grottoes, Henan Province, China
  • Charleston, South Carolina

Stunning ancient Egyptian discoveries include the remarkably well preserved 4,300 -year-old...

  • Scottish Highlands
  • Big Bend National Park, Texas

national geographic 2023 travel list

  • New Zealand
  • Choquequirao, Peru
  • Austrian Alps
  • Revillagigedo National Park, Mexico

Dominated by Alpine peaks and a prime winter sports destination, Austria’s Carinthia region is...

  • Dodecanese Islands, Greece
  • Milwaukee, Wisconsin
  • Alberta, Canada
  • Trinidad and Tobago
  • San Francisco, California
  • Manchester, UK
  • Switzerland

national geographic 2023 travel list

For more on the list, click here to learn more!

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National Geographic unveils its must-see top destinations list of 2023

Looking for travel inspiration? National Geographic has just dropped its must-see top destinations list of 2023, and it includes a new category.

In December 2021, Laos inaugurated a train linking the north, from the small town of Boten, to the capital Vientiane. The train is about 400 kilometers long and is designed to boost domestic tourism. Around the world, such local initiatives for tourism that support community conservation have been identified by National Geographic , which has decided to make them a category of their own in its annual list of must-see destinations for the coming year.

Eighty-four percent of travelers in the United States , Germany , Brazil, France and the United Kingdom would choose Italy for a vacation, according to a Confcommercio / Istituto Piepoli study relayed by the Schengen news portal this week. Meanwhile a few weeks ago, the accommodation reservation giant Booking.com reported that Paris had regained its position as the most coveted destination in the world this fall.

And just a few days ago, the “World Travel Awards” named Portugal as the best tourist destination in Europe. That’s right, the lists of top destinations and title-winning cities and countries often draw on the same locations, just switching up the order from year to year.

But for US travel-focused media National Geographic, a new element has been added to its listings dedicated to identifying interesting trips and top destinations to plan in 2023. While the “adventure” and “nature” categories will rightly be of interest to backpackers, a new genre, under the heading “community,” now offers suggestions for where to go when looking for a sustainable getaway that embraces the principles of slow travel and inclusiveness.

Take Laos, featured in National Geographic’s top five. While the country’s borders reopened last May, the country didn’t wait for foreign travelers to return to boost its tourism, instead focusing on fostering domestic travel. In December 2021, a train named after an ancient kingdom in the area, Lane Xang, was inaugurated, taking travelers some 400 kilometers from the city of Boten to the capital Vientiane. To visit the ancient capital Luang Prabang, it took at least five hours by road, whereas with the train, Laotians now need only two hours.

laos national geographic top destinations 2023

At a time when tourism must include more local community involvement to better preserve both culture and ecosystems and avoid spawning museum cities, National Geographic also highlights the Dodecanese Islands. While Rhodes and Kos are the two tourism superstars of this part of Greece, the island of Karpathos should soon take the spotlight through its efforts to integrate locals, such as fishermen and winemakers, in the tour excursions.

Among the other destinations singled out for their efforts in sustainability and local involvement mentioned by the media is Ghana. Pre-pandemic Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo invited travelers with African heritage to visit this country to “explore their roots.”

Meanwhile in North America, two destinations are part of the inclusive travel dynamic: the city of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.  because of the transformation of traditional neighborhoods including an art and cultural center dedicated to African-American art, and Alberta, a Canadian province, where various sites allow visitors to learn about of the history and culture of the area’s Indigenous peoples.

top destinations 2023

Here is the complete list of National Geographic’s top must-see 2023 destinations:

Appian Way, Italy

Busan, South Korea

Longmen Grottoes, Henan Province, China

Charleston, South Carolina, USA

Scottish Highlands, UK

Big Bend National Park, Texas, USA

Azores Islands, Portugal

New Zealand

Choquequirao, Peru

Austrian Alps

Revillagigedo National Park, Mexico

Dodecanese Islands, Greece

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Alberta, Canada

Trinidad & Tobago

San Francisco, California

Manchester, England

Switzerland

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This article is published via AFP Relaxnews 

National Geographic unveils its must-see top destinations list of 2023

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National Geographic adds San Francisco to its 'Best of the World 2023' list

From craft breweries in South Korea to turtle nesting grounds in Trinidad and Tobago, the list highlights adventures near and far.

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SAN FRANCISCO -- National Geographic unveiled its "Best of the World 2023" list Wednesday morning, and San Francisco was selected as one of the 25 must-see destinations for the year ahead.

Each year, NatGeo's team of travel experts and international editors handpick select destinations and experiences that "leverage the benefits of tourism to strengthen their local communities and environments, both natural and built."

"We also worked hard to provide lesser-known gems on the list, equally inspiring alternatives to destinations that have become overcrowded (think Choquequirao vs. Machu Picchu in Peru)," Amy Alipio, senior editor at National Geographic Travel.

The list is grouped by categories, and The Golden City is among Trinidad and Tobago, Colombia, Manchester and Switzerland under the Family category.

National Geographic groups the list into five categories: the aforementioned Family , educational journeys for all generations; Adventure , exciting activities in breathtaking places; Culture , explorations of history and heritage; Nature , escapes to wild, beautiful places; and the newly-added Community , healing journeys, community conservation, giving back, sustainable places and more.

Among domestic destinations, Utah is highlighted for its rugged landscape and Milwaukee is featured for its revitalized warehouse district, the Historic Third Ward.

national geographic 2023 travel list

Those jonesing for international adventure should consider The Greek island of Karpathos, a growing center of ecotourism, or Egypt, with its well preserved 4,300-year-old tomb of Khuwy.

National Geographic's "Best of the World 2023" list

national geographic 2023 travel list

  • Appian Way, Italy
  • Busan, South Korea
  • Longmen Grottoes, Henan Province, China
  • Charleston, South Carolina

national geographic 2023 travel list

  • Scottish Highlands
  • Big Bend National Park, Texas

national geographic 2023 travel list

  • New Zealand
  • Choquequirao, Peru
  • Austrian Alps
  • Revillagigedo National Park, Mexico

national geographic 2023 travel list

  • Dodecanese Islands, Greece
  • Milwaukee, Wisconsin
  • Alberta, Canada

national geographic 2023 travel list

  • Trinidad and Tobago
  • San Francisco, California
  • Manchester, UK
  • Switzerland

Find out more about the "Best of the World 2023" list online at NatGeo.com/BestOfTheWorld .

The Walt Disney Co. is the parent company of National Geographic Partners and this ABC station.

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Top 30 travel destinations worldwide for 2024 revealed by National Geographic

national geographic 2023 travel list

From “wildlife havens and urban escapes to off-grid locales and cultural gems,” National Geographic Traveller’s Cool List 2023 reveals destinations that are “set to make the news” next year, a company press release said.

National Geographic Traveller (UK) announced a list of thirty locations which span five continents that were chosen by editors as the “top places and spaces around the world where tourism benefits communities and the environment as much as the visitors and locals themselves.”

“The 30 entries reflect an incredible range, featuring everything from exciting immersive journeys to inspirational visits that could take just a few hours,” the statement says. 

“Whether it’s culinary excellence, solar eclipses, night trains, new national parks, rewilding initiatives, ancient wonders revisited or cultural landmarks, we’ve curated some of the best travel destinations for the next 12 months,” Pat Riddell, editor of National Geographic Traveller (UK), was quoted as saying in the statement. “From Canada, the US and Argentina to Sierra Leone, Sikkim, Australia and beyond, the world is represented in all its full glory.”

National Geographic's top 30 travel destinations for 2024 

  • Albanian Alps, Albania
  • Belfast, Northern Ireland
  • Emilia-Romagna, Italy
  • Europe by train
  • Galloway & Southern Ayrshire, Scotland
  • Nordland, Norway
  • North Yorkshire, England
  • Pompeii, Italy

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  • Saimaa, Finland
  • Tartu, Estonia
  • The Euros, Germany
  • Valletta, Malta
  • Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

North America

  • Dominican Republic
  • Nova Scotia, Canada
  • Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico

South America

  • Atacama Desert, Chile
  • Iberá Wetlands, Argentina
  • Akagera, Rwanda
  • Andrefana Dry Forests, Madagascar
  • Sierra Leone

More: UNESCO adds 42 treasures to World Heritage List, including another in a Midwest state

  • Sikkim, India
  • Tainan, Taiwan
  • Xi’an, China

Australasia

  • Victoria, Australia

To see the full list online, visit: nationalgeographic.com.

national geographic 2023 travel list

Best US beaches to visit in 2024, according to Tripadvisor reviews: See which sandy spots made the list

Those looking for their next beach vacation might be in luck as Tripadvisor named the top spots in the United States. 

The world's largest travel guidance platform announced the top 10 U.S. beaches to visit in 2024 — and some of these may surprise travelers.  

The list is based on user reviews left on Tripadvisor across a year-long period; the list is the second Travelers’ Choice Award for the Best of the Best Beaches.

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This year’s top 10 list includes eight different U.S. states from coast to coast.  

See which spots made the highly coveted and reviewed list for 2024.

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Here's the countdown. 

TOP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS FOR SUMMER 2023 REVEALED: SEE IF YOUR PLANNED TRIP MADE THE LIST!

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The best beach to visit in 2024 is Ka’anapali Beach in the town of Lahaina on Maui, Hawaii.

This is the second year in a row it’s claimed the top spot. 

Additionally, Ka’anapali Beach is ranked the No. 4 beach in the world, according to nearly 100,000 Tripadvisor reviews.

The beach is noted for having great wildlife sightings plus water sport options. 

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The town of Lahaina was the main area destroyed in the 2023 Maui wildfires — with the County of Maui confirming over 2,100 acres were burned. 

Tripadvisor also noted that although there is never a bad time to visit the island, the winter is great for whale watching and more affordable hotel pricing. 

Ranked No. 2 is Siesta Key, Florida, which is known for its great family attractions, while the No. 3 beach in Poipu, Hawaii, is great for snorkeling. 

Tripadvisor’s head of editorial Sarah Firshein said the list could be a guide for someone looking for a beach vacation in the near future. 

"Whatever your taste and style, these lists are the perfect jumping-off point for spring break plans that haven’t been cemented yet, summer trips that bring together the whole family and even those far-off winter holidays that beg for a beachy reprieve," she said in a media statement. 

The company also released a list of the top 10 beaches in the world, including Praia de Falesia in Olhos de Agua, Portugal, Spiaggia dei Conigli in Lampedusa, Italy, and La Concha Beach in Donosta, Spain. 

Fox News Digital reached out to Tripadvisor for further comment.

For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews/lifestyle

Original article source: Best US beaches to visit in 2024, according to Tripadvisor reviews: See which sandy spots made the list

Poipu, located on the island of Kauai, Hawaii, was ranked high on the best U.S. beaches list by Tripadvisor contributors. iStock

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  • BEST OF THE WORLD

The travel essentials we’re most excited for in 2024

Whether your next trip involves a first-class ticket or a full tank of gas, here’s the gear—from featherlight binocs to sustainable bags—you should pack.

A rain jacket, sandals, first aid kit, solar panel, binoculars, hiking boots, battery, dog collar, packing cube, and suitcase against a bright blue background.

What do all successful travelers have in common? Often, it’s an arsenal of great gear. After all, what you pack can make a big difference when exploring the best of the world . For our annual Gear of the Year list, National Geographic travel editors searched far and wide for the coolest products to pack. We also asked experts—from pro cyclists to adventure photographers—what they look for in everything from bike racks to binoculars. Here’s what we’re most excited to take with us in 2024.

Durable roller bag for tight spaces: Cotopaxi Allpa

A purple Cotopaxi Allpa Roller Bag on a dark beige background.

Award-winning travel journalist Tim Neville has journeyed on yaks, buses, and “countless heaving boats” and says that when it comes to packs, “a water-resistant exterior, beefy zippers, and soft, tough sides are non-negotiable.”  

The newest Cotopaxi Allpa has two sturdy wheels made to handle cobblestone streets, stairs, and other rough surfaces. Like earlier versions of the bag, it’s constructed of 100 percent recycled pre-consumer waste (extra materials from the manufacturing process) and features a split-case design and mesh compartments for intuitive organization.

Buy it now:   REI, from $350,   38L   (carry-on compatible) and   65L | Amazon, $349.99

100 percent recycled backpacks: Patagonia Black Hole Collection

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 55 L on a dark gray background.

Patagonia’s popular duffel bag collection is now completely made from post-consumer recycled (used materials diverted from landfills) polyester ripstop that resists tearing. The Fair Trade Certified pieces still come with a weather-resistant TPU-film laminate coating, rendering them virtually indestructible. We like the addition of a new interior pocket for stashing smaller valuables, such as cords and keys. For even more convenience, look for a duffel with wheels rolling out in August. Available in multiple styles and sizes.

Shop the collection now:   Patagonia, $35-$419

GPS tracker/virtual fence dog collar: Halo Collar 3

Halo 3 GPS tracker collar and phone with map on an orange background.

Halo’s newest GPS tracking collar not only keeps tabs on dogs with a propensity to escape or wander, it also lets you set a virtual fence to keep them confined to a geographic area, such as a campsite. It takes time for pups to acclimate to the collar’s alerts, which vary from beeps to vibrations—but the Halo app comes loaded with training tips. Available in small and medium/large for dogs 20 pounds and up.

Buy it now:   Amazon, $699, plus a subscription starting at $5.99/month

Fast-drying wool base layer: Ibex Woolies Pro Tech

Ibex Women's Woolies Pro Tech Crew on an olive green background.

Ibex’s new collection (tops, bottoms, boxer briefs) is constructed from Nuyarn, purportedly the world’s first performance wool. It’s made from non-twisted fibers, enabling the wool to retain more of its natural properties, such as body temperature regulation. The company claims that this lets the fabric dry five times faster than conventional 100 percent, ring-spun merino wool. It also weighs 35 percent less and offers 35 percent more stretch.

Buy it now:   Ibex (Men’s), $115   |   Ibex (Women’s), $115

Recyclable rain jacket: Patagonia Boulder Fork

Green Patagonia Boulder Fork Rain Jacket on a blue background.

Patagonia has plenty of outerwear made from recycled material. This rain jacket, however, is the first from the 50-year-old company that you can recycle. We like the adjustable cuffs, hem, and hood (great for keeping extra dry) and the three zippered chest pockets, which give you plenty of places to stash your things. The sleek, not-too-boxy silhouette is an added bonus.

Buy it now:   Patagonia (Men's) $229   |   Patagonia (Women's), $229

Waterproof, sustainable hiking boots: Oboz Cottonwood

This new boot, ideal for day hikes on uneven, wet terrain, is the Montana-based company ’s most sustainable yet. Both the low- and mid-profile designs incorporate at least 20 percent recycled, responsibly sourced materials by weight. Even better, Oboz’s “B-DRY” lining is designed to maximize waterproofing and breathability—top qualities to look for in hiking boots, especially for trekking through tropical regions or cruising around on Zodiacs.

Coming soon:   Spring 2024, from $155

Featherlight binoculars: Swarovski Optik CL Curio

Swarovski Optik CL Curio Binoculars on a beige background.

Slightly larger than a deck of cards and weighing just 8.9 ounces, Swarovski’s Optik CL Curio binoculars are the lightest, most compact binoculars we’ve found—exactly what you want in the field. With a sleek, seamless bridge by industrial designer Marc Newson , they’re also pretty stylish. With 7x magnification, a 21mm effective objective lens diameter, 7.7° field of view, and 90 percent light transmission, you’ll be able to discern a border collie from a coyote at 100 yards away and count the cracks in the craters of the moon at night.

Buy it now:   Amazon, $899

Budget-friendly, feature-loaded binoculars: Nocs Field Issue

NOCS Field Issue on a blue background.

Birdwatchers on a budget will appreciate Nocs’ new Field Issue, which marries the high-quality optics of the Pro Issue with the size and durability of the Standard Issue . It’s ideal for an off-road adventure when you want a super-wide, crisp view in a variety of lighting conditions. Like all the company’s binoculars, this mid-size (it weighs 16.7 ounces) pair is waterproof and fog-proof. But unlike other models, it features the brand’s finest central focusing. While it comes with a cleaning cloth and strap, consider upgrading to a harness to prevent it from awkwardly swinging around your neck.

Buy it now:   Nocs Provisions, $175

Carry-on that converts into a table: PROPS  

PROPS 22in bag in white on four supporting legs on an orange background.

This hard-side carry-on has fold-out legs that turn the suitcase into a footrest or a table for your laptop during layovers or travel delays. It’s great for small hotel rooms without luggage racks. The built-in compression packing system and space-saving clamshell opening holds a surprising amount for a 22-inch bag. Look for a 26-inch model in October 2024.

Buy it now:   Magellan’s, $329

Super grippy water sandals: Teva Hydratrek

Inspired by tree frogs, Teva’s latest sandal is built so that a maximum amount of surface area on the outsole stays in contact with the ground. Extra texturing on the top sole helps wet feet stay put, while the quick-dry, traceable recycled webbing helps with durability. An added bonus for light packers: These are water sandals you can also hike in.

Buy it now:   Teva (Men’s), $85   |   Teva (Women’s), $85

Robust, fast charger: Anker Prime Power Bank 250W

Anker Prime Power Bank 250W on a dark gray background.

At 27,650 mAh, Anker’s newest model is packed with power. “At least 20,000 mAh is the sweet spot because it allows me to charge my phone four to five times and my laptop once or twice,” says Barry Hoffner, founder of the education nonprofit Caravan to Class , who relied on a power bank while taking public buses across more than 170 countries.  

This new model takes 28 minutes to charge a 16-inch MacBook Pro to 50 percent—a big improvement from last year’s 140W model, which took 40. Yet, at 99.54 watt hours, it still falls under TSA’s 100-watt-hour limit for carry-on packing. Pairing and Bluetooth connectivity via the Anker app enables you to track it if you lose it.

Buy it now:   Amazon, $179.99

Portable solar panel: BigBlue SolarPowa 30 ETFE Camping Solar Panel Charger

BigBlue SolarPowa 30 against an olive green background

BigBlue’s latest travel-friendly solar panel is now made with an ETFE layer, a fluorine-based plastic that can withstand high temperatures. It also resists water, dust, corrosion, and stains. This model reportedly lasts twice as long as a traditional panel and folds to the size of a 14-inch laptop—which not only saves space, but also exposes less surface area to damaging elements.

Buy it now:   Amazon, $79.99

Endlessly customizable backpack: Osprey Archeon

Osprey Archeon backpack on an orange background.

Osprey’s new Archeon set lets you customize your pack via quick-release straps—ideal for when you’re trekking and don’t want to take your full 60L kit on shorter day hikes. Start with the foundational day pack and add accordingly. The chest rig, which straps over your shoulders like a BabyBjorn, maximizes versatility. You can wear it backward, forward, and around your waist like a fanny pack—just attach the day pack’s removable hip belt. Each piece sold separately.

Shop   the collection now:   Osprey, $50-$300

Padded storage cube: Away, The Protective Packing Cube (6L)

Away F.A.R. Padded Organizational Cube packed with sunglasses, binoculars, and cords on a blue background.

Part of Away’s outdoor-centric For All Routes (F.A.R.) collection, the sturdy 6L packing cube has extra padding and six customizable dividers for storing fragile items, like larger electronics or a small pair of binoculars. A removable shoulder strap lets you wear the cube as a crossbody bag when you need to transport just a few things from your suitcase. Plus, it’s made of recycled materials and ships in compostable packaging.

Buy it now:   Away, $72

Heavy-duty universal bike rack: Thule Epos

Thule Epos bike rack on a olive green background.

A good bike rack should have turn and brake signals, according to retired professional cyclist George Hincapie .  

Thule’s newest model includes both signals, plus telescopic arms with pivoting cradles that let you attach any type of bike, even an e-bike weighing up to 60 pounds. It works on any car; in some cases with an easy-to-install hitch. We especially appreciate that it folds up and wheels away for storage. (It weighs just 38 pounds.)

Buy it now:   REI, $999.95   |   Amazon, $999.95

Dog harness/rescue sling: Fido Pro Panza

Panza Harness and Deployable Emergency Dog Rescue Sling on a light beige background.

Hiking in remote areas with your dog can be risky, especially since search and rescue often isn’t equipped for pups. Vets recommend it’s best to be prepared and to think in advance how you can get your dog out of a difficult situation. It’s also a great idea to pack a rescue harness. We like this newly patented harness because it converts into a sling that you can wrap around your dog without too much maneuvering. Included custom pads can save your shoulders over longer distances too. Fits most breeds 35-120 pounds.

Buy it now:   Backcountry, $139

Dog first aid travel kits: Wolf Republic First Aid Kit & Adventure Dog Medical Kit

Wolf Republic 76-piece kit First-aid kit on an orange background.

Having a dog-specific first aid kit can be especially handy while traveling, especially if you're doing adventurous or sporty activities. We love Wolf Republic’s loaded kit for longer trips and Adventure Ready’s compact one for short day hikes. Both come stocked with vet-approved must-haves including triple antibiotic spray, self-adhesive bandages, saline wash, and tweezers.  

Buy it now:   Wolf Republic First Aid Kit, $56

Buy it now:   Adventure Dog Medical Kit,   Amazon, $22.98 for a pack of 2

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Dolly Parton, Dollywood make National Geographic’s ‘best of the world’ list. Here’s why

national geographic 2023 travel list

Dolly Parton has put Pigeon Forge on the National Geographic map. The music icon and her popular theme park have made the magazine’s annual Best of the World list .

The 2024 list released Jan. 30 includes exciting, meaningful, and one-of-a-kind travel experiences from around the world. The travel suggestions range from Paris and Niagara Falls to the Caucasus Mountains of Georgia and diving with sharks on Australia's Coral Coast.

Parton and Dollywood made the cut because this year’s Best of the World edition goes beyond geographical locations. It also highlights hotels, restaurants, global travelers and travel products.

Dollywood is worth a trip to Pigeon Forge

National Geographic named Dolly Parton one of the travelers of the year because of her world travels and for bringing the world to Pigeon Forge through Dollywood and her resorts. HeartSong Lodge, Parton’s newest resort , was one of four hotels in North America included in the new “worth a trip” category.

“Well, we’re lucky to be in the part of the world that I believe is just absolutely the most perfect place that God has created, so we just look outside the window and those big, beautiful Smoky Mountains provide all the inspiration we could ever dream of finding,” Parton told the magazine.

National Geographic praised Parton for helping to make East Tennessee a popular vacation spot, helping kids explore the world through Imagination Library , her nonprofit that provides free books to children, and for her wildlife preservation efforts.

Dollywood partners with the American Eagle Foundation and features Eagle Mountain Sanctuary , the largest presentation of non-releasable bald eagles in North America.

What are the best places to visit in 2024?

The main Best of the World list showcases “travel’s power to transform us and our connections with one another," according to the magazine. The top 20 travel experiences list is curated by National Geographic explorers, photographers, and editors.

After you enjoy Dollywood and HeartSong, here are the top 20 travel experiences National Geographic suggests for 2024:

  • Horseback safari in Kenya
  • Olympic Marathon in Paris, France
  • Ski tour through UNESCO sites in Georgia
  • Bear-watching at Katmai National Park, Alaska
  • Live music in Kyoto, Japan
  • Magdalena River Cruise in Colombia
  • Road trip Route 66 in New Mexico
  • Explore ancient rock art in Algeria
  • Dive with sharks on Australia's Coral Coast
  • Volcano hiking in Panama
  • Observe the total solar eclipse in Niagara Falls
  • Trek a glacier in Chile
  • Step back in time at Menorca's archaeological sites
  • Ride classic rails through the Scottish Highlands
  • Indulge your taste buds in Isan, Thailand
  • Wander the tea trail in Sri Lanka
  • Gallery hop in Sao Paulo, Brazil
  • Raft the rapids in West Virginia
  • Go antiquing in the Hudson Valley, New York
  • Sleep at a floating lodge on Tofino Island, British Columbia

Devarrick Turner is a trending news reporter. Email  [email protected] . On X, formerly known as Twitter  @dturner1208 .  

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December 2023 International Inbound Visitor Spending

International visitors spent $19.5 billion in the united states in december 2023.

Chart of December 2023 International Inbound Visitor Spending

Data recently released by the National Travel and Tourism Office (NTTO) show that in December 2023 :

  • International visitors spent $19.5 billion on travel to, and tourism-related activities within, the United States, an increase of more than 22% compared to December 2022 and the highest level of monthly spending since December 2019 (before the onset of reported COVID-19 cases). In fact, monthly U.S. travel and tourism exports are within $1.4 billion of their highwater mark set back in March 2018 when international visitors spent an appreciable $20.8 billion experiencing the United States.  
  • Conversely, Americans spent $18.9 billion traveling abroad during December, yielding a balance of trade surplus of $544 million and the sixth consecutive month during which the United States enjoyed a balance of trade surplus for travel and tourism-related goods and services.  
  • International visitors have spent more than $212.2 billion on U.S. travel and tourism-related goods and services year to date (January through December 2023), an increase of more than 28% when compared 2022; international visitors have injected, on average, more than $581 million a day into the U.S. economy during 2023.  
  • U.S. Travel and tourism exports accounted for 22.4% of U.S. services exports during December 2023 and 7.5% of all U.S. exports, goods and services alike.  

Composition of Monthly Spending (Travel Exports)

  • Purchases of travel and tourism-related goods and services by international visitors traveling in the United States totaled $11.3 billion during December 2023 (compared to $8.8 billion in December 2022), an increase of 28% when compared to the previous year. These goods and services include food, lodging, recreation, gifts, entertainment, local transportation in the United States, and other items incidental to foreign travel.  
  • Travel receipts accounted for 58% of total U.S. travel and tourism exports in December 2023.  
  • Fares received by U.S. carriers from international visitors totaled $3.4 billion in December 2023 (compared to $2.7 billion in the previous year), up 24% when compared to December 2022. These receipts represent expenditures by foreign residents on international flights provided by U.S. air carriers.  
  • Passenger fare receipts accounted for 17% of total U.S. travel and tourism exports in December 2023.  
  • Expenditures for educational and health-related tourism, along with all expenditures by border, seasonal, and other short-term workers in the United States totaled $4.8 billion in December 2023 (compared to $4.4 billion in December 2022), an increase of 11% when compared to the previous year.  
  • Medical tourism, education, and short-term worker expenditures accounted for 25% of total U.S. travel and tourism exports in December 2023.

Interested in an interactive data visualization of these statistics? Please visit our Monthly Travel Trade Monitor for a more comprehensive and customizable experience.

Monthly Travel Trade Monitor

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