best countries to visit july 2023

The best places to visit in July 2023

May 6, 2023 • 9 min read

July marks a great time to go to Zanzibar © Olesya Lesly/Shutterstock

It’s all about the heat come July, with the northern hemisphere’s sizzling summer temperatures adding an extra shine to some of the world’s most popular travel destinations.

Europe is bathed in sunshine, bringing the Mediterranean beach scene to the forefront, while in the tropics dry season signals prime wildlife spotting opportunities. Colder regions also benefit from the heat, with Arctic areas at their most accessible. Finally, there are the summer festivals and celebrations that bring fun and adventure to many destinations around the world. 

Whatever your preference, here are our picks of where to go in July.

Where are the best places to travel to in July for relaxation?

Zanzibar, Tanzania 

Why now? Delve into Stone Town and the Indian Ocean under blue skies. 

The spice island Unguja – known to most as Zanzibar – is a scent sensation. Stroll the maze-like alleys of old Stone Town on a warm evening and you’ll catch whiffs of nutmeg, clove and cinnamon in the Darajani Market , frying seafood at stalls in Forodhani Gardens , and the aroma of black coffee in Jaws Corner, where old men gather to watch TV and gossip. Zanzibar’s historic heart, with its crumbling palaces and heartrending slavery-era relics, is just one gem of this treasure-trove island, at its best in July, in the middle of the dry season. Board a dhow to snorkel off the west coast, watching for dolphins; sniff the leaves and buds of a spice plantation; and find your own patch of coral-sand perfection on one of the wonderful beaches.

Andros & Bimini, Bahamas

Why now? Alternate activity with indolence on and under the water. 

The Bahamas are almost the Caribbean – yet, crucially, not quite. True, this speckle of islands and cays between Cuba and Florida boasts limpid waters and beautiful beaches. But summer here, though “rainy,” is less afflicted by the storms that often hit other islands. July brings calm, clear, warm seas, ideal for enjoying superb diving and snorkeling off tourist-light Andros; its east coast is protected by the world’s third-longest barrier reef. Hop across to Bimini for manta ray encounters (peaking in July, when sharks are less prevalent) and the chance to come face to smiling beak with an Atlantic spotted dolphin. Add mangroves, excellent fishing, thriving birdlife and white-powder beaches, but subtract crowds – Andros is even quieter and better value in July.

Wisconsin, USA 

Why now? Cool off with a great lake break. 

In Wisconsin ’s warmest month, the shores of Lakes Michigan and Superior lure hordes of heat-fleeing urbanites. Unsurprisingly, the pretty waterfront villages and beaches of Door County , dubbed the “Cape Cod of the Midwest,” bustle with vacationers, though there’s still peace to be found on Washington Island and in Newport State Park . For a real retreat, head northwest to the shore of Lake Superior – stopping en route to dip or fish in one of the glacial lakes peppering Vilas and Oneda Counties. Charming Bayfield, its streets lined with Victorian buildings, is likable enough in itself – but, more importantly, it’s the jumping-off point for the Apostle Islands, a mostly still-wild archipelago of 22 russet fringed emerald specks. 

Where are the best places to travel to in July for wildlife and nature?

Coral Coast, Western Australia 

Why now? Meet charismatic sea creatures, roam red-rock canyons and wander among wildflowers. 

Stretching over 1000km (621 miles) between Cervantes and Exmouth , the “Coral Coast” of Western Australia encapsulates much of the country’s appeal in miniature, making this relatively little-touristed stretch ideal for a winter road trip through empty expanses. Here, you’ll discover dramatic rock formations – the Pinnacles, limestone needles punching through the sand near Cervantes – and russet Tumblagooda Sandstone gorges in Kalbarri National Park. You’ll experience surfing and subaquatic adventures along the world’s largest fringing reef – 300km (186 miles) of coral that’s home to some 500 fish species. And you’ll meet miraculous wildlife, like when whale sharks gather in their hundreds on Ningaloo Reef (March to July), along with manta rays – more numerous off Exmouth May to September – and humpbacks arrive to join the fun, too. 

Northwest Territories, Canada 

Why now? Run the river wild to immerse yourself in Indigenous culture. 

This vast region of tundra and taiga is as empty as it is wild, with a population smaller than the tiniest Caribbean nation scattered across a land nearly as large as Mongolia. To discover the natural and cultural wonders of the Northwest Territories , take a river journey into its untamed heart, possible for just a few weeks from late June when temperatures are (relatively) balmy and days stretch forever. Canoe a stretch of Canada ’s longest river, the Deh Cho (Mackenzie); raft the South Nahanni from thundering, 96m(315ft)-high Virginia Falls in the sky-piercing Mackenzie Mountains; or enjoy a gentle kayak on Great Slave Lake , North America ’s deepest. En route, learn about the traditional culture of the Dene peoples who have adapted to this challenging environment over tens of millennia, and watch for caribou, Dall sheep, black bear, moose and wood bison – the continent’s largest land mammal.

Where are the best places to travel to in July for culture?

Gansu, China 

Why now? Absorb Silk Road history and Tibetan culture. 

While lowland regions of China swelter in summer heat, summer is the time to explore the high Tibetan plateau, when temperatures are pleasant and trails are free of snow. Cupping the northeastern arc of the plateau, Gansu province is popular with domestic tourists, renowned as the gateway of the ancient Silk Road and the home of jaw-dropping grottoes, notably at Mogao near Dunhuang . But away from those hot spots, you’ll find peace, along with rich Tibetan culture and wild landscapes, particularly in Gannan prefecture south of provincial capital Lanzhou . Here, the chants of lamas waft across Xiahe from Labrang Monastery – one of the six great monasteries of Tibetan Buddhism; walk the 3.5km (2-mile) kora (pilgrimage circuit) around reputedly the world’s longest stretch of prayer wheels, before refueling on momo  (Tibetan steamed dumplings). 

Aarhus and Jutland, Denmark 

Why now? Celebrate sunny days and balmy evenings in a cultural and culinary hotspot. 

Denmark ’s second city is buzzier than a beehive. Founded by Vikings some 13 centuries ago, today Aarhus is eminently contemporary, with its groundbreaking ARoS art museum , rejuvenated waterfront cultural center, Dokk1 , and innovative Iceberg apartment blocks. Even the Moesgaard Museum , home of the 2000-year-old, bog-preserved Graubelle Man, offers a cutting-edge tour through the past. Come evening, the city reveals its true colors, with cafes, cocktail bars and clubs showcasing that quintessentially Danish blend of smiles and smarts. High summer brings a host of festivals celebrating flowers, jazz, Viking heritage and more, plus warm sun (nudging 20ºC/68ºF) for basking on sandy Baltic beaches: try Den Permanente near the center, silky-soft Bellevue just to the north, and the blissfully empty strands of eco island Samsø, just a short ferry ride away.

Where are the best places to travel to in July for food and drink? 

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Why now? For tasty times on the prairie. 

Peak summer typically means peak crowds – but on Canada’s endless prairie, it’s not hard to lose the hordes. Landlocked Saskatchewan is a landscape of space and silence – indeed, an audio-ecologist deemed its Grasslands National Park one of the world’s quietest places. It’s also a great place to eat and drink. The province is the breadbasket of Canada, encompassing 50% of its arable farmland, not to mention a heap of extremely photogenic grain silos. Super-cool Saskatoon , which sits amid all this fertility, has become one of the country’s hottest foodie spots. A raft of distillers, craft brewers, artisan bakers and cocktail shakers have popped up in the small-but-mighty “Paris of the Prairies.” Take a foodie tour and cooking class, and visit nearby farms to meet producers. July also sees the sweet, nutty Saskatoon berries ripen – try them in everything from pies to wine.  

Alta Badia, Italy 

Why now? Sample superb cuisine amid marvelous mountains. 

If the Dolomites are the Alps at their most magnificent, the Alta Badia valley in South Tyrol promises the Dolomites at their tastiest. This jagged array of deep valleys, high plateaus and piercing pinnacles in northern Italy echoes with poignant history: between 1915 and 1918, Italian and Austro-Hungarian forces fought amid these unforgiving peaks, and today you can hike routes such as the Kaiserjäger to discover their trenches and gun emplacements. Alta Badia is renowned for its skiing, but in summer the cable cars and mountain huts reopen to serve hungry hikers, cyclists, paragliders and trail runners instead. The region is spangled with Michelin stars, but even simple refuges dish up good-value but top-notch cuisine (think mountain cheeses, pasta and strudels). 

Where are the best places to travel to in July for adventure?

Why now? Wake up and smell the coffee in a mini dry season. 

Caribbean beaches, mountains, plains, jungle, desert: Colombia encompasses an astonishingly diverse array of landscapes, with correspondingly varied climates. July and August bring a period of drier weather perfect for touring fincas (coffee farms) amid the beautiful, rolling hills of the Zona Cafetera ; admiring dazzling birdlife in Reserva Ecologica Rio Blanco; sleeping beneath the stars among the cacti and otherworldly rock formations of the Tatacoa Desert ; hiking the lush highlands around Popoyán ; and discovering the pre-Columbian tombs, petroglyphs and huge carved heads around San Agustín and Tierradentro. Also visiting this month are giants: between June and November, humpbacks calve off Colombia’s Pacific coast – join a whale-watching tour in Nuquí or from Buenaventura into Bahía Málaga to spot breaching behemoths. It’s also the driest month to spy sloths and pink river dolphins in Colombia’s slice of the Amazon.

Khardung La, India 

Why now? Snowless roads for a magnificent drive. 

There are breathtaking road trips – and there are literally breathtaking road trips. The Khardung La is both. This 5600m (18,373ft) pass near Leh , amid the Indian Himalaya, was a key thoroughfare on the Silk Road and is now one of the world’s highest drivable highways. Crossing it by bus is an adventure; crossing it astride a classic Enfield Bullet motorbike even more so. Either way, both mountain views and soaring altitudes will leave you gasping. The roads here are only open for a few months a year, so make the most of the warm, snow-free conditions. Bikers could zigzag up from Manali ( Himachal Pradesh ) to Leh ( Ladakh ) – one of the world’s best mountain rides. Or fly from Delhi to Leh to visit the town’s Tibetan-style palace and stupas before taking the Khardung La into the isolated Nubra Valley . 

This article was first published June 2019 and updated May 2023

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• 26 Best Places To Visit In July In The World In 2024 To Pamper The Travel-Enthusiast In You

23 Mar 2023

The fact that we all need an escape every once in a while is what keeps us going in life. To uplift our spirits and freshen our minds, a planned trip always comes in handy when all you really need to do is pack and go. Post the months of May and June when the tourism rate is slightly lower, traveling gets easier, in the month of July with low prices and hassle-free booking. While it may not be possible for everyone to make quick plans, often reading about the places you would want to go to and having a list is surely beneficial.

Are you looking for the best places to travel in July 2023 ? So, here’s a list of the best places to visit in July in the world to help you have a quirky and well-lit bucket list of your own! You would not have known that these places were so good to plan a vacation in July. They offer just the right experience to give you that much-needed break!

26 Places To Visit In July In The World

If you are wondering that where to go in July then this list has the best places to visit in July in the world in 2023  details the places that you surely cannot miss to beat the July heat and take home more than just memories! Check out the best places to visit in the world in the month of July.

• Seychelles: A Refreshing Escapade
• Germany: Beers And More Beers
• Mexico: Put On The Mexican Fervour
• France: A Mix Of Everything Jolly
• Indonesia:  You Cannot Ignore Bali
• Spain:  Imbibe Spanish Culture
• Canada:  A Visit To Wonderland
• Greece:  Head To Beach Bars
• Greenland:  The Other Side Of Green
• Iceland:  Get Cozy In A Unique Way
• Switzerland:  Beauty Of Swiss Alps
• Turkey:  Do It Like Turkish 
• Denver: For The Best Summer Break
• Delft: For The Most Positive Vibes
• Atlantic City: For The Love Of Beaches
• Bar Harbor: For Cozy Nights
• Copenhagen: A Glittery Experience
• Devon: For Adventurous Activities
• Dublin: An Irish Escapade
• Florence: The Home Of Artists
• Ghent: From Belgium With Love
• Nairobi: The Best Of Kenya
• Burlington: For Sweet Lovers
• Jackson Hole: Natural Wonderland
• Minneapolis: Aquatennial Festival
• Nags Head: Gorgeous Landscapes

1. Seychelles: A Refreshing Escapade

Image Credit: mtorrazzina for Pixabay

Why Seychelles? Well, why not? Despite being one of the best honeymoon places in the world , this country in East Africa is an archipelago of more than 100 islands! If you wish to spend your holiday in tree houses viewing the ocean, North Island in Seychelles is the place to be! Also having a renowned World Heritage Site like Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, you’ll know why this one tops the list of best places to visit in July in the world once you visit!

Places to eat: Le Repaire, La Goulue, Traders Vic’s  Where to stay: Carana Hilltop Villa, Hilton, Four Seasons How to reach: Seychelles international airport Tourist attractions: La Digue, Anse Lazio, Curieuse, Vallee De Mai Things to do: With abundant scenic landscapes, national parks, and serene beaches, visiting Seychelles in July is more about what you have in mind for a vacation Languages spoken: French, Seselwa, English Currencies used:  Seychellois rupee

Must Read: 9 Famous Spots For Scuba Diving In Seychelles In 2023!

2. Germany: Beers And More Beers

Image Source

One of the famous things that Germany is known for is its beer and while you may visit any time of the year, July will give you more reasons due to its lit beer gardens. Be sure to check out their flea markets when you’re in Berlin and the charming festivals happening around the country are surely hard to miss during this time of the year. Be it hiking in the forests or exploring the Disney castle in what is surely one of the best places to visit during summer in the world , you’ll keep coming back for more!

Places to eat: Marjellchen, Atelier Gourmet, Zur Haxe Where to stay: Holiday Inn, Radisson Blu, Mercure hotel How to reach: Berlin airport is the nearest airport Tourist attractions: Munich, Berlin, Frankfurt, Cologne Things to do:  You can also spot the locals relaxing in the parks on a nice sunny day for picnics with their friends and family.  Languages spoken:  German Currencies used:  Euro

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3. Mexico: Put On The Mexican Fervour

If you are wondering where to go in July then check out this place. This is for sure one of the best places to visit in July around the world because Mexico is not only about its pristine beaches but so much more with a variety of regions and cities to explore. In the Yucatan peninsula region is much famed for its Whale Shark festival while the Mayan ruins here are perfect for all the history buffs. Apart from being the largest city, Mexico city also has several museums and multiple active volcanoes to hike through.

Places to eat: Mexique, Punto MX, Casa Enrique Where to stay: Hotel Aguila, Hotel Marmil, Hotel Xcaret How to reach: Benito Juarez international airport is the nearest airport Tourist attractions: Coba, El Castillo, Xcaret park Things to do:  Experiencing the most exotic salsa dance performances in the capital and drinking with your fellas is one of the things you must try in Mexico.  Languages spoken:  Spanish Currencies used:  Mexican peso

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4. France: A Mix Of Everything Jolly

Image Credit: ID 27707 for Pixabay

Of course, a trip to France requires you to visit Eiffel Tower and it goes without saying too but booking well in advance is highly recommended due to hiked airfares and hotel prices. The islands of Corsica and Sardinia offer some peaceful time for all the water babies making it one of the best places to visit in July around the world .

Places to eat: Patchanka, Mudito, Comice Where to stay: The Negresco, Radisson Blu, Novotel How to reach: Charles De Gaulle is the nearest airport Tourist attractions: Paris, Nice, French Riviera Things to do:  You can spend your day soaking in the blissful cheese ambiance and wineries in Provence or simply enjoy the parade if you’re visiting around mid-July as the independence day parade in France is a must-watch for all its fireworks and chirpy crowd! Languages spoken:  French Currencies used:  Euro, CFP Franc

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5. Indonesia: You Cannot Ignore Bali

Any amount of time spent in Indonesia doesn’t feel enough to the tourists traveling to this popular destination every year. Be it Bali or any other place in this country, reasonable rates of hotels and all services around the place makes it one of the best places to visit in July around the world for your budget holiday. With thousands of islands here, it becomes really tough to choose but Bali, of all these places, is surely not to be missed! A visit to explore the renowned art and kite festivals along with other activities like scuba diving, jet skiing, surfing and boat cruises are one of the top things you can enjoy here! You’ll never run out of reasons to tell you why Indonesia is among the best places to travel in July on a budget .

Places to eat: Potato Head Beach Club, Flapjaks, Warung Laota Tuban Where to stay: Senetan villas & spa, Halaman Depan hotel,  How to reach: Ngurah Rai is the nearest airport Tourist attractions: Bali, Kuta, Ubud Things to do:  You can indulge in water sports adventure or take a sightseeing tour Languages spoken:  Indonesian Currencies used:  Indonesian rupiah

Suggested Read: 10 Most Charming Places To Visit In Yogyakarta On Your Indonesian Vacation

6. Spain: Imbibe Spanish Culture

As compared to other countries in Europe, Spain can have less strain on your pocket and with so many cities like Ibiza, Barcelona, Madrid, and the Canaries, you’ll be spoilt for choice! Be it shopping for the exclusive curios or dancing your night away with their famous nightclubs, you’ll have to keep up with the vibrant energy of the locals. A place that never lets you down, it is one of the best places to visit in July in Europe even if its just about trying their cuisines to strike that off your list! This is certainly one of the best places to visit in July in the world .

Places to eat: El Celler De Can Roca, RAO restaurant, Azurmendi  Where to stay: Casa Gracia, Soho Boutique, La Puerta De Palacio  How to reach: Valencia airport is the nearest airport  Tourist attractions: Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Granada Things to do: Whether interested in sightseeing or shopping or looking for an awesome party place, a vacation in Spain will surely make you have the best time Languages spoken:  Spanish Currencies used:  Euro

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7. Canada: A Visit To Wonderland

The best time to visit Canada is surely around July since winters in Canada are not something everyone can handle. Mesmerizing mountain peaks and enchanting forests display the nature’s truest and raw form to capture some of the amazing moments on your trip here. Vancouver Island and Newfoundland in Canada are some of the islands that you must visit in Canada for soaking in the best of kayaking vibes around the place. You can also indulge in exciting things to do in Vancouver . The reason you must visit this place around July is mainly because of the Niagara falls which are an absolute beauty to watch! You decide whether it is one of the best countries to visit in July . 

Places to eat: Five sails, Raymonds restaurant, George restaurant Where to stay: Delta hotels, Marriott, Riviera plaza  How to reach: Toronto Pearson is the nearest airport Tourist attractions: Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal Things to do:  Take a tour to the popular places in Canada as it is known for its exquisite beauty and serene ambiance Languages spoken:  French, English Currencies used:  Canadian dollar

Suggested Read: 13 Things To Do In Niagara Falls, Canada In 2023: An Experience Below A Majestic Waterfall

8. Greece: Head To Beach Bars

Image Credit: leoakiyama for Pixabay

If you wish to learn about Greek mythology and soak in the most scenic beaches at the same time, this is the place of your dreams. Planning a vacation here is not going to burn a hole in your pocket and surely provide with an experience of a lifetime with so many beach bars to choose from. Be it Naxos or Athens city, stay assured that wine tasting and exploring the brilliant architecture here is surely something you wouldn’t have experienced before. Riding horses amid the majestic dunes or cool breeze splashing across your face on a kiteboard will create memories of a lifetime on your next dreamy vacay! Are you ready?

Places to eat: Tudor hall, Lithos, Funky Gourmet Where to stay: Alexander beach hotel, Santorini princess hotel, Dorian inn How to reach: Athens international airport is the nearest airport Tourist attractions: Athens, Santorini, Mykonos Things to do:  From horse riding to kite boarding there are numerous interesting things to indulge in Greece Languages spoken:  Greek Currencies used:  Euro

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9. Greenland: The Other Side Of Green

Ever visited the Arctic circle? Well, Greenland is just the perfect place for a boat trip crossing various icebergs and having a refreshing encounter with the whales, walruses, and the like. While you’re still thinking about places to visit in July in the world, soaking in the summer months when Greenland has longer days, your holiday will have a unique charm to it. Dog sledding, backpacking, hiking, and kayaking are some of the popular things to do in Greenland which you can try with your family. But, if you’re in the mood for just relaxing with your partner in this enchanting snow-covered land, visiting the island around like Disko Island can be a good option for quiet time as well. This is one of the best countries to visit in July . 

Places to eat: Restaurant Roklubben, Inuit cafe Where to stay: Hotel Arctic, Inuk hostels, Nuka hostel How to reach: Mittarfik Nuuk is the nearest airport Tourist attractions: Ilulissat, Nuuk, Disko Bugt Things to do: The place is known for its adventurous expeditions Languages spoken:  Greenlandic Currencies used:  Danish krone

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10. Iceland: Get Cozy In A Unique Way

A warm Iceland with vast lush greenery and scintillating northern lights is what many have only dreamt of. So, if the travel bug in you feels enticed with just the thought of it, we recommend you must give this a try! The glacier lagoons and gigantic volcanoes will let you unwind and have a blissful retreat like you haven’t experienced before. Though it will be costlier to travel and explore this place, it still feels worth every single penny to stay amidst nature’s paradise. The capital city of Reykjavik has some good news for all the foodies and while you visit Iceland, savoring some of the cuisines with fresh fish and lamb is a must-try for all! Still not sure  where to go in July?  Read on, there are many more places in the list.

Places to eat: Fiskfelagid, Grillid, Tapas Barinn Where to stay: Frost & Fire boutique hotel, Reykjavik residence How to reach: Keflavik international airport is the nearest airport Tourist attractions: Blue lagoon, Pingvellir, Jokulsarlon Things to do:  From glacier lagoons to volcanoes, there are numerous exciting things to do in Iceland Languages spoken:  Icelandic Currencies used:  Icelandic króna

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11. Switzerland: Beauty Of Swiss Alps

Home to majestic snowy hills, cascading waterfalls, shimmering glaciers, beautiful valleys, and cattle-strewn green farms, Switzerland is one place that strikes up the perfect balance between nature, adventure, love, and peace. Besides enjoying nature, tourists can engage themselves in various activities; hiking in Switzerland is one of these adventurous activities that travelers can explore while on a trip to Switzerland. Always counted amidst the most beautiful places in Europe, Switzerland makes up for one of the best places to visit in June & July in the world owing to its boundless natural beauty, year-round blissful weather, and friendly locals. It has all the ingredients for making your summer vacation an unforgettable experience.

Places to eat: Cheval Blanc, Hotel De Ville, Haus Hiltl Where to stay: Swiss-Chalet lodge, Hotel Dell’Angelo, Davos Inn How to reach: Zurich airport is the nearest airport Tourist attractions: Zurich, Lucerne, Zermatt, Geneva Things to do:  There are numerous interesting things to do in Switzerland. Whether you are interested in adventurous expeditions or seeking a refreshing break, Switzerland won’t disappoint you Languages spoken:  French, German, Italian  Currencies used:  Swiss franc

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12. Turkey: Do It Like Turkish 

Known for its exotic culture that is a mixture of European and Islamic influences, Turkey has evolved into a magnificent tourist destination. It is surely one of the best countries to visit in July . From souks and markets, charming natural attractions, quaint waterways, balloon studded skies of Cappadocia, labyrinthine underground cities, caves, and ravines, to grand Islamic architecture like the Hagia Sofia, this place has everything to make you want to stay here forever. Certainly one of the best places to visit in July around the world , Turkey has something for every kind of traveler, be it an adventure enthusiast, a honeymoon couple, or a peace seeker. There’s no way you won’t be smitten by Turkey’s rugged yet graceful landscapes.

Places to eat: Gurkan Sef Steakhouse, Sans restaurant, Seasons restaurant Where to stay: Arka hotels, Artemis Princess hotel, Side Premium How to reach: Istanbul airport is the nearest airport Tourist attractions: Istanbul, Antalya, Pamukkale, Cappadocia Things to do:  Take a sightseeing tour to explore the exquisite beauty of Turkey Languages spoken:  Turkish Currencies used:  Turkish lira

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13. Denver: For The Best Summer Break

Denver, Colorado, is one of those best places to travel in July where summers don’t feel like summers but in fact it is a good time to explore it. The reason being lack of any humidity in the air. So, take a plunge into the beauty of the city and have the most refreshing experience. This is undoubtedly one of the top places to visit in July in the world . Some of the best things to do there are drinking craft beer, paddle boating in Washington park and hiking to the rocky mountains.

Places to eat: India’s restaurant, The Capital Grille, Denver biscuit company Where to stay: Courtyard by Marriott, Hyatt house, Crowne plaza How to reach: Denver international airport is the nearest airport Tourist attractions: Denver botanic gardens, Denver art museum, Denver zoo Things to do:  Take a city to and capture the refreshing vibe amidst scenic landscapes Languages spoken:  English and Spanish Currencies used:  US Dollar

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14. Delft: For The Most Positive Vibes

This is one of the great places to visit in July in the world for someone who is fond of art and crafts. The city, located in Netherlands, is home to the very famous artist Johannes Vermeer. It also offers a park where you can sunbathe and have the most relaxing experience. You will find the cheerful vibes in the city in the month of July that will you up with sheer joy.

Places to eat: Stads-Koffyhuis, Restaurant Het Vermeertje Delft, Restaurant Le Vieux Jean Where to stay: Campanile, Hotel Leeuwenbrug, Hotel Royal Bridges How to reach: Rotterdam the Hague airport is the nearest airport Tourist attractions: Vermeer Centrum, Nieuwe church, Museum Prinsenhof Delft Things to do:  As the place is known for its art, you can take a tour to witness the master pieces of eminent artists.  Languages spoken:  English and German Currencies used:  Euro

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15. Atlantic City: For The Love Of Beaches

Known for its huge beach, it is one of the best places to spread your wings in the month of July. The Atlantic waters are perfect for sports activities that will thrill you up from head to toe. There are stalls, restaurants and walking areas near the beach. It is also known for its gaming industry, so catch a game or two and have the most exciting vacation ever. This is definitely one of the best places to visit in July in world . 

Places to eat: Carmine’s Italian restaurant, Kelsey’s, Dock’s Oyster house Where to stay: Hard Rock hotel, Caesars hotel, Harrah’s resort How to reach: Atlantic city international airport is the nearest airport Tourist attractions: Borgata, Steel Pier, Atlantic city boardwalk Things to do: You can indulge in water sports adventures here Languages spoken:  English, Spanish, French Currencies used:  US Dollar

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16. Bar Harbor: For Cozy Nights

Bar Harbor is a very cozy place to visit in the summer months. It is one of the best places to visit in July outside India . It offers pleasant days being home to fresh waters, mystic forests and greenery all around. You can dive into the water or go for a hike to the forests. There is a very famous national park, Acadia national park, which will show you a glimpse of the wildlife of the city. Apart from that, the city is known for its remarkable and historical lighthouses. So, do consider this for your list of the best places to visit in July in the world . 

Places to eat: 2 Cats bar Harbor, Havana, Side Street Cafe Where to stay: Acadia hotel Downtown, The Inn on Mount Desert, Bar Harbor Inn & Spa How to reach: Bangor international airport is the nearest airport Tourist attractions: Acadia National park, Cadillac mountain, Jordan Pond Things to do:  You can take a trekking trail here apart from visiting iconic attractions of Bar Harbor Languages spoken:  English Currencies used:  US Dollar

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17. Copenhagen: A Glittery Experience

Thinking where to travel in July ? Those who are looking for a nirvanic vacation need to take Copenhagen into consideration. The city is known for its street life, vibrant festivals and glittery nightlife. Get a bike and roam the streets to get first-hand experience of the flamboyance of this amazing town. Stop by at a cafe and grab some beer to enjoy the chill vibes. This is one of the best places to travel in July in the world.  

Places to eat: Geranium, Trattoria, Restaurant Marv & Ben Where to stay: Copenhagen Admiral airport, Copenhagen Marriott hotel, Radisson Blu How to reach: Kastrup airport is the nearest airport Tourist attractions: Tivoli Gardens, The Little Mermaid, Amalienborg Things to do:  Indulge in scrumptious delicacies while capturing the true vibe of this beautiful city on your sightseeing tour  Languages spoken:  Danish Currencies used:  Danish Krone

Suggested Read:  The Little Mermaid: A Guide To Copenhagen’s Iconic Landmark

18. Devon: For Adventurous Activities

Image Credit: diego_torres for Pixabay

Let’s turn the map a little and focus on England for places to visit in July in the world . Devon is a little town in England that is known for its beaches and typical countryside British lifestyle. You can enjoy kayaking, canoeing and more in the county. Also known for its cliffs, it will give you a refreshing holiday experience. You can go for activities like horse-riding. For those wondering  where to go in July?  this place in England is absolutely gorgeous. 

Places to eat: Memories Bistro, Old Vienna restaurant, The Masons Arms Where to stay: The Devon, Bovey castle, Langstone Cliffs hotel How to reach: Exeter airport is the nearest airport Tourist attractions: Dartmoor national park, Jurassic Coast, Exeter Things to do:  If you are an adventure freak then you surely indulge in various water sports activities here Languages spoken:  Polish, Arabic Currencies used:  Totnes pound

Suggested Read:  19 Places To Visit In August In The World In 2023 That Will Knock Your Socks Off

19. Dublin: An Irish Escapade

Ireland is already known for its unparalleled beauty and Dublin adds to its charm. During the month of July, the city starts spreading its magic. A huge crowd gathers up in Dublin to watch the Gaelic games, live music on the streets and lush green gardens. After doing it, you can go for pub hopping and absorb the Irish culture. This is one of the best places to travel in July in the world.  

Places to eat: Chapter One restaurant, Dax restaurant, Etto restaurant Where to stay: Dublin Central Inn, Dublin Skylon hotel, Royal Marine hotel How to reach: Dublin airport is the nearest airport Tourist attractions: Dublin Castle, Temple Bar, Phoenix park Things to do:  If you don’t want to miss out the scenic beauty of Dublin then you must surely head to the popular sites here. You can also indulge in numerous adventures and games offered at various locations Languages spoken:  English Currencies used:  British Pound

Suggested Read: Galway Festival: Ireland’s Most Sassy Event Is Happening & It’ll Make You Go LaLaLa

20. Florence: The Home Of Artists

Florence has played a very important role in the English literature. It is home to some of the most classic writers of all time and a great place to explore. Especially for those who have an interest in history and literature. You will find structures that speak of Dante’s theories, and some of them have been used in famous hollywood movies. It also offers scenic beauty that will allure you more. This is certainly among the best places to visit in July outside India . 

Places to eat: La Buchetta food and wine, La Bottega Del Buon cafe, Ristorante II Ricettario Where to stay: Drom Florence, Hotel Machiavelli palace, Grand Hotel Cavour How to reach: Peretola is the nearest airport Tourist attractions: Palazzo Vecchio, Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio Things to do:  Take a sightseeing tour and don’t forget to add the iconic churches  Languages spoken:  Italian Currencies used:  Euro 

Suggested Read:  46 Places To Visit In December In The World In 2023

21. Ghent: From Belgium With Love

Still confused about places to visit in July in the world ? Ghent is a pretty little town in Belgium and it shows its true colors in the month of July. Here you will find beautiful historical buildings that will leave you amazed. If you are a person who likes to be amongst busy streets, lush green gardens then Ghent is the place for you. Apart from that, you will love the setting of the town, especially the restaurant patios.

Places to eat: Maison Elza, Vrijmoed, ‘T Klaverblad Where to stay: Ghent Marriott hotel, Ghent river hotel, Hotel Del Flandre How to reach : Brussels national airport is the nearest airport Tourist attractions: Gravensteen, Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, Het Belfort Van Gent Things to do:  Take a local sightseeing tour as there are numerous beautiful attractions to explore in Ghent Languages spoken:  Dutch  Currencies used:  Euro 

Suggested Read:  Tomorrowland Belgium 2023: All You Need To Know For Experiencing The Ultimate Music High!

22. Nairobi: The Best Of Kenya

One of the best countries to visit in July is the magical city of Nairobi. The weather is just perfect for you to plan a vacation there. It is a city lost in the wilderness which makes it even more appealing. Home to some amazing national parks, it will show you what true adventure tastes like. You can go hiking, trekking, take safari rides and spike up your adrenaline like never before. This is surely the best countries to visit in July 2023 .

Places to eat: About Thyme, Carnivore Kenya, Talisman Where to stay: Hilton Nairobi, Nairobi transit lounge, Hill park hotels How to reach: Jomo Kenyatta is the nearest airport Tourist attractions: Nairobi national park, Giraffe centre, Karen Blixen museum Things to do:  Take a wild safari, visit museums Languages spoken:  Swahili, English Currencies used:  Kenyan Shilling

Suggested Read:  37 Best Places To Visit In March In World To Satisfy Your Wanderlust In 2023

23. Burlington: For Sweet Lovers

Burlington is another beautiful destination to be explored in the month of July. The place is known for its delicious ice creams giving you a refreshing break from the scorching heat on your vacation. You can also take an ice cream factory tour and check out how the iconic ice creams of the world are made. 

Places to eat: American Flatbread Burlington Hearth, Hen of the Wood, Penny Cluse Cafe  Where to stay: Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain, Quality Inn Colchester. Lang House How to reach: Burlington Go Station is 191 meters away, 3 min walk. Fairview At De Pauls Lane is 334 meters away, 5 min walk. Tourist attractions: ECHO, Waterfront Park, Ethan Allen Homestead Museum, Lake Champlain Chocolates Factory Things To Do: Plan a visit to garden, enjoy art collections, walk along a pier Languages Spoken: French Currencies Used: US Dollar

Suggested Read:  32 Best Places To Visit In January In The World (2023)

24. Jackson Hole: Natural Wonderland 

Jackson Hole in Wyoming is believed to be a natural wonderland offering the best summer break. The weather is sunny during day time when you can plan your sightseeing tours followed by an evening at interesting cafes and clubs. The place is known to be an exciting hub of trekkers and adventurers and you can take any of the popular trails for the best experience. 

Places to eat: The Restaurant At White Buffalo Club, Bubba’s Bar-B-Que Restaurant, Liberty Burger Where to stay: Snow King Resort, Hotel Jackson, The Lodge at Jackson Hole How to reach: Getting to Jackson Hole by air is easy. Teton Village is a quick shuttle from Jackson Hole’s large commercial airport. Jackson Hole airport is served from most major U.S. airports.  Tourist attractions: Snow King Mountain Resort, Jackson Town Square, Jackson Hole & Greater Things To Do: Plan a stay amidst scenic beauty resort at Snow King Mountain, go for sightseeing tours, plan a historical visit to popular museums Languages Spoken: English Currencies Used: US dollar

Suggested Read:  28 Places To Visit In October In World In 2023!

25. Minneapolis: Aquatennial Festival

Minneapolis gives you a double dose of entertainment in the month of July. The month is known for the Aquatennial Festival and a massive celebration is organized throughout the city. The festival includes music, international films, stunning fireworks, energetic parades, and much more. You can also plan a visit to Sculpture Garden to glance at the rare collections. 

Places to eat: Spoon and Stable, Alma, The Bachelor Farmer Where to stay: 300 Clifton, Minneapolis International Hostel, Holiday Inn Express And Suites How to reach: Light-rail transit (LRT) connects downtown Minneapolis with the airport, you can board it.  Tourist attractions: Minnehaha Falls, Nickelodeon Universe, Minneapolis Sculpture Garden  Things To Do: Visit art museums, have refreshing baths at the waterfalls, scroll at the sculpture garden Languages Spoken: English Currencies Used: US dollar

Suggested Read: 28 Places To Visit In February In World For A Romantic International Tour In 2023

26. Nags Head: Gorgeous Landscapes

Nags Head is a popular beach town that is located on the Outer Banks of North Carolina and is a perfect getaway for people looking for a refreshing break. It is home to gorgeous landscapes where you can plan a stay with your friends by paying a very nominal price. 

Places to eat: Miller’s Waterfront Restaurant, The Dunes Restaurant, Owen’s Restaurant Where to stay: Holiday Inn Express, Ramada Plaza, Colonial Inn How to reach: Visitors from the north can reach Nags Head via US 158, also known as the Beach Bypass Tourist attractions: Jockey’s Ridge State Park, Bodie Island, Nags Head Woods, Dowdy Park Things To Do: You can go for walks at the Ridge State Park and Dowdy Park or relax by Bodie Island Languages Spoken: English Currencies Used: USD

Further Read: Festivals In Iceland: 7 Popular Celebrations On The Land Of Fire And Ice

If you’re still confused, well, we wouldn’t blame you! But these best places to visit in July in the world are just waiting to be explored by you. So, are you onboard? Plan your international trip with TravelTriangle and know which one will be the gift that you would want to give yourself!

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Places To Visit In July In The World

Which country is cool in July?

Iceland is a good option to explore in July, it remains pretty chill throughout the year, Canada, Indonesia, France and Greece are also good options to explore in July.

Where is it not too hot in July?

Twillingate, Newfoundland, Canada, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada, San Francisco, California, Ireland, Scotland, Denali National Park, Alaska are some of the places that remain cool even during the summer.

Will it be a good idea to travel outside India after the COVID situation gets better?

It is advisable that tourists must check in all the details of the travel along with the country they wish to travel to and what is the situation of the pandemic in that specific country in order to be safe.

Where should I go on holiday in July?

You can go on holiday at any of the above-mentioned places in July. You can also visit places like Vietnam, Portugal, Israel, Romania, and many more.

Which are the warm places in July?

Las Vegas, New York, Portugal, Spain, and Indonesia are some of the relatively hotter places in July.

Which destination has the best weather in July?

Some of the places with the best weather in July are Indonesia, Netherlands, Alaska, Tanzania, and more.

Where should I go for a beach vacation in July?

You should go to either Atlantic city, Seychelles or Canada for a beach vacation in July.

When is the Aquatennial Festival hosted?

It is organized in the month of July in Minneapolis. So if you wish to attend this then plan your visit during this month only.

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Team Wanderlust | 24 April 2023

The 27 best places to visit in july.

Here are some of the world's top destinations for immersing yourself in local nature, wildlife and culture in July, from Australia to the Azores...

July is usually one of the busiest months for travel. School's out, and the weather in many parts of the world is at its warmest and sunniest. In the northern hemisphere, summer celebrations are in full swing, national parks are prime for exploring and the world's best beaches burst into action.

Whatever you're looking for from your July getaway – be it sunny and sweet, or packing in as many culture and natural highlights as several weeks allows – you'll surely find something to suit you from our selections.

Skip ahead to your chosen travel type by clicking on one of the below, or keep scrolling for the full list:

• Where to go in July for sunny weather
• Where to go in July for wildlife experiences
• Where to go in July on a longer-term adventure
• Where to go in July for art and culture festivals

Here are the 26 great places to visit in July...

The best july destinations for nature and ideal weather, 1. madeira and the azores, portugal.

Pride of Madeira (Shutterstock)

July is one of the hottest months of the year in Portugal , with average temperatures of 24°C during the day. The Portuguese islands of Madeira and the Azores in the North Atlantic are a few degrees cooler, but all three destinations are ideal if you’re seeking the sun.

Nicknamed the Floating Garden of the Atlantic, Madeira is in bloom all year round. As the name suggests, Pride of Madeira – a bush with purple cone blooms – is native to the island, but if you visit in July you’ll see magnolias, red hot poker trees and hydrangeas. Hydrangeas are also popular in the Azores, particularly around Sete Cidades near Lake Azul.

Festival goers might want to book a trip around Fiesa, an annual summer sand sculpture festival in  Pêra on the mainland. As well as watching artists carving 12m high sculptures and seeing them illuminated at night, visitors can attend workshops. Meanwhile, over in Tomar, women parade through the town carrying bread on their heads during Festa dos Tabuleiros, which is held every four years. The next one takes place in July this year (2023).

Over on Madeira, visitors can attend a 24-hour folk dancing festival in Santana, a jazz festival in Funchal and a canoe regatta and games during Sea Week in Porto Moniz. The Azores meanwhile hosts a week-long party and regatta on Sao Jorge Island and Santa Maria Blues festival on the eponymous island. And while spring is best for whale-spotting in the Azores, sperm and minke whales do ply its waters year-round, so take a whale-watching trip or keep your eyes peeled from land. 

2. Gibraltar

Gibraltar Botanic Gardens (Shutterstock)

Set on the southern tip of Spain, this peninsula hits highs of 28°C in July and benefits from 11 hours of sunshine a day. If you’re after beaches, visit the east side of Gibraltar and you will find the colourful, Italianesque Catalan Bay, and Sandy Bay, best suited for swimmers and water activities. 

Visitors can explore the Gibraltar Botanic Gardens all year round, while the endemic Gibraltar sea lavender blossoms on rocks and cliffs around Europa Point and Camp Bay in July. Plus, you're almost guaranteed to spot hundreds of dolphins when joining a boat tour that takes you out into Gibraltar Strait, offering fantastic views of the dominating Gibraltar Rock. 

The height of summer is also the best time to experience festivals. Calentita Food Festival takes place in early July, while Gibraltar Regatta is usually held later in the month.

River Vjosa in Albania (Shutterstock)

Most of Europe benefits from sparkling weather in July, but along with August, it's when you'll find the beaches most crowded, and the cities packed with visitors.

Fortunately, it is possible to find a European hot spot that, even in peak season, is slightly less crowded than the others: the Balkan country of Albania.  Temperatures here reach hot heights of 30°C to 35°C.

Spend a few days in Albania's capital  Tirana  for an unusual city break, and discover that the resort town of  Sarandë is a dreamy combination of beaches, history and hiking.

The River Vjosa flows through Albania and has recently received national park status, becoming the first wild river national park in Europe, so there's no better time to explore this protected ecosystem. 

And finally, don't miss The Blue Eye natural spring in Muzinë. This UNESCO-listed site has bubbling blue waters that can reach up to 50 metres in depth.

4. Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, France

Gordes is one of the medieval hillltop villages in Luberon (GranTotufo/Shutterstock)

Provence in July is often visited for its endless rows of lavender fields, but if you look beneath the surface, there’s so much more wilderness to explore across the region.

The steep terrain makes Alpes-de-Haute-Provence perfect for adventurers, with activities such as hiking, rafting and mountaineering all possible to experience. Head to Verdon Natural Regional Park for superb gorges, turquoise glacial river waters, and wildlife spotting, or UNESCO-listed Luberon Region Natural Park for its fields of vineyards, limestone mountains, and medieval villages that perch on rugged hilltops.

Beyond the blissful summer scenery, a July visit to Provence should also be well timed with France's national day, La Fête Nationale, commonly known as Bastille Day. It's an annual celebration in France taking place on 14 July, often marked with festivities, fireworks and the odd parade.

And if you're determined to set your sights on lavender fields before you go, the spa town of Digne-les-Bains is the self-proclaimed lavender capital of France.

Read next  Where to see the world's best floral spectacles

6. the seychelles.

The stunning island of St Pierre in The Seychelles (Shutterstock)

Expect glorious weather across the Indian Ocean archipelago to continue throughout July, reaching pleasant highs of around  28°C, usually averaging out around 25°C to 26°C.

And where better to enjoy such warm sunshine than on one of the 115 islands that make up the Seychelles ? Beach relaxation is a given, but you can certainly make an adventure trip out of the islands.

Seek the elusive giant Aldabra tortoise, snorkel and admire the natural beauty of St Pierre Island, or get your feet dirty hiking through the rich green forests of Morne Seychellois National Park.

A castle in the countryside of Ireland (Shutterstock)

There's never a better-time weather wise to get in your car and road trip through  Ireland   (unless, maybe, you count March, for St Patrick's Day). In July, you can expect 18 hours of daylight, and a cool temperature. There may be the odd surprise summer shower, but you can't have it all...

Where you drive is up to you, but a stop in colourful Kilkenny can lead you straight to the capital, Dublin, via County Carlow's wild countryside.

If you can, ensure you stop over in Galway, and pay a visit to Connemara National Park, soaking up the nature and hikes, and also the coves and bays along the coast. County Cork is also a must-visit... but we could go on.

Alternatively, the little-visited northwest tip is glorious in the summer. The Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal has enough to occupy you for days, with white-sand beaches without the crowds, numerous blustery coastal walks, and fantastic local  pubs serving hearty meals.

Read next Things you must do in Ireland

8. switzerland.

Harder Kulm lookout point, Interlaken (Shutterstock)

Many people associate Switzerland with the winter, as skiers and snowboarders flock to destinations such as Zermatt  and St. Mortiz . But they're really missing out on something special. In summer, the Swiss Alps transform into an adult playground for outdoor enthusiasts, without having to step into snow boots. July is an ideal time to visit, as temperatures range from 18 to 28 °C.

Head to the town  Interlaken , known as the 'Adventure Capital of Europe'. Located in the Bernese Oberland, you can enjoy everything from  endless alpine hikes and guided kayak tours on turquoise lakes, to adrenaline-pumping activities such as white-water rafting, canyoning and paragliding. This region offers some wild fun in a beautiful setting.

Don't miss taking the 100-year-old cogwheel train up to  Schynige Platte, where you'll be met with botanical gardens and unbeatable vistas. And before you go, make sure you tuck into a  hot cheese fondue at one of the many restaurants serving traditional Swiss cuisine. 

Colourful homes brighten the streets of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (Shutterstock)

Sun-seekers can rejoice in Mexico's July temps, reaching highs of a hot  28 °C. It does cool off in the evenings, so you won't be sweltering all day. You may fancy a lightweight jacket, and even a brolly just in case there's a touch of summer rainfall.

Mexico's best-known beaches and hidden coves are often found on the coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in Tulum and Cancun. But there are other benefits to the warmth beyond catching a few rays for yourself: July is peak sea turtle season in Mexico.

There's also nature reserves and national parks aplenty, but to cool off from the heat, visit one of the many cenotes. These natural pools were once key water sources for the Mayans, and also believed to be portals to the underworld where Mayan gods would visit. Now, they offer incredible guided swimming, snorkelling   and diving experiences for travellers.

The best July destinations for wildlife watching

10. whale watching and puffins in iceland.

Atlantic puffins (Shutterstock)

While you can see sheep, cows and Icelandic horses – a breed of intelligent, petite horses – all year round, in summer you can also spot herds of reindeer around Snaefell and colonies of Atlantic puffins breeding on cliffs around the isle. July is also peak season for whale watching. The best place to take a trip to see humpback, minke and blue whales is from Husavik, in the north of the island.

The days are long, the temperatures at their highest, and so this is the perfect month to really explore Iceland's delights 

Read next: The best things to do in Iceland

11. brown bear watching in sweden, finland and arctic norway.

A brown bear strolls through the bog (Shutterstock)

Early to mid July is often the best time to spot a brown bear in Finland, Sweden or Arctic Norway. Typically, brown bears arise from hibernation around April time, and tend to disappear for mating in June, before becoming visible again – often to feed.

Your best bet of a sighting is at night, often from a 'bear hide' hotel, and with the help of a specialist guide – a.k.a. a 'bear safari'. You'll have plenty of tours and locations to choose from. 

The Lakeland region of Finland is covered in thick forests, and has approximately 2,000 bears in its midst. In central and northern Sweden, it's even harder to catch a glimpse of the region's reported 3,000 brown bears – though  Hälsingland, Bollnäs and Sandviken are all popular choices.

Honestly, it's much rarer to see a bear in Norway – if you do, it'll be near the Swedish and Finnish border.  

12. Birdwatching in Vanuatu

Two rainbow lorikeets, who often appear in Oceanic countries like Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea (Shutterstock)

The 80 islands making up the Pacific Ocean county of Vanuatu may not have the largest number of birds in history, but the ones it does call its own are rather special.

There are thought to be 30 rare species flying around, 11 of which are said to only appear in Vanuatu. The rainbow lorikeet, for example, might be native to Australia, but it frequents Vanuatu  – and is quite the colourful sighting for a keen birder.

There's also the coconut lorikeet, the weird and wonderful V anuatu megapode, and the super cute red-tailed tropicbird, to name a few... a must for fans of sensational birdlife.

13. Roos on Kangaroo Island, Australia

Kangaroos spot the camera on Kangaroo Island, Australia (Shutterstock)

July is midwinter for Australians, though don't expect minus temperatures and piles of snow. There may be a little rain, but temperatures rest around a palatable 14 °C.

Kangaroo Island  is o ff South Australia and, despite the devastating fires of 2020, it's  back to being a must-visit for fans of marsupials. Kangaroos roam the island freely and can be spotted on farmland and along the verges. Wallabies are shyer but keep your eyes peeled at dusk and after dark. 

Expect to see koalas, and a variety of beautiful birdlife too, including wedge-tailed eagles (Australia's largest bird of prey) and very rare glossy black cockatoos. Head to  Flinders Chase National Park for seals and bird life. Also worth a visit is Seal Bay Conservation Park, to see protected sea lions doing their thing.

14. The Great Migration, Tanzania and Kenya

The Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra begins in Tanzania, Africa (Shutterstock)

One of the world's biggest and boldest wildlife migrations is the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra. It starts in northern Tanzania's Serengeti, and over 1.5 million animals move towards the Masai Mara Nature Reserve in Kenya, as they thirst for water and fresh grass.

You can actually experience a part of the migration at almost any time of year, as our Great Migration calendar goes to show. In July, you can expect to see the herds "spread out from  Grumeti Game Reserve and Ikorongo Game Controlled Area to the northern reaches of the Serengeti," according to our expert William Gray.

The crossing over into Kenya really depends on rainfall in Tanzania, so you have to play it by ear. The migration could occur in mid-June, if the waters have run dry –  or as late as September, if the zebra and wildebeest aren't so thirsty. There's often opportunity to spot the crossing in July, so choose your timings wisely.

Read next  The world's most spectacular migrations

15. polar bear spotting in spitsbergen, norway.

A polar bear plays in the snow in the Svalbard/Spitsbergen region of Arctic Norway (Shutterstock)

A polar bear sighting in the wild is one of life's great joys, whether you're hardcore into wildlife watching, or find it makes up only part of your travel experience.

In the Svalbard archipelago, April to September is prime wildlife spotting season –  including polar bears as they roam on a ceaseless search for food. This is when official tours take place, and is your best shot of getting an up-close glimpse of these deceptively gorgeous (and quite dangerous!) creatures in their homes. Sadly, you can't really go off polar bear-seeking on your own.

The most popular way of exploring Svalbard is to take an expedition cruise up Spitsbergen's west coast and around the archipelago. These last several days and mix shore excursions with wildlife spotting from deck. Polar bears are often seen on the cliffs and beaches as they look for any marine life that has been washed up. Alternatively, base yourself in Longyearbyen on Spitsbergen and take tours from there. In July, you'll have missed the deep snows of earlier in the season, and the ice won't have quite melted, as it does by the end of the season. So, July's often thought of as one of the best times, weather-wise, to explore. 

The best July destinations for long-haul travel

16. belize (and its neighbours).

Belize, and its neighbours, are prime for visitors in July (Shutterstock)

We've talked plenty about the beauty of Belize  on Wanderlust , and we reckon July's a great time to take in all this Central American gem has to offer.

The weather, firstly, is at its best. Hot days are followed (often) by rainy nights, with a cooling breeze rolling in shortly after. Now's your chance to dive the  Belize Barrier Reef and Glover's Reef, explore ancient Maya cities such as Lamanai, and marvel at the Blue Hole – a natural large sinkhole off the coast that is both mysterious and the largest of its kind.

You could spend weeks soaking up Belize, but make it a multi-country trip (if you've got the time to spare) and tick off the neighbouring Central American countries of Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador while you're at it.

17. Alaska, USA

Denali National Park looking mighty impressive, with clear blue July skies (Shutterstock)

There's a small window for Alaska's peak season: late May to July. There'll be 17 to 18 hours of daylight each day during a July excursion, and it's also the warmest time of year to visit – with highs of approximately 18 °C.

It may not be the cheapest time in-season to visit (that's probably late May), but it is the best for exploring. The prime weather makes exploring the vast Denali National Park and Glacier Bay National Park a total joy. It's a highlight for any nature lover.

Whalewatchers will also benefit from a July trip, as that's when you're most likely to spot humpback whales swimming in the sea. Anglers meanwhile will find it's also the best month for fishing for Alaska king salmon.

18. Namibia

Namibia is famous for its sand dunes, Sossusvlei (Shutterstock)

It's true that Namibia , in Southern Africa, is a country that has it all. Famous for its towering red sand dunes, it's also a wildlife hot spot, with a sprawling sandy coast. 

We'd say you'll need the best part of two weeks, if not longer, to really take it all in. July's just the time to do it. The weather is pretty sensational, for one thing. There's low chance of rain, and the temp typically hovers around 20 °C – making exploring the Sossusvlei dunes and the desert expanse much cooler than you'd expect.

The lack of rain is perfect for wildlife lovers, too: Etosha National Park's many animals will be gathering around the water holes to quench their thirst, so you've a good chance of spotting zebra, giraffes and elephants side by side.

Read next  Top things to do do in Namibia

19. indonesia.

The exterior of the Indonesia Museum in the capital, Jakarta (Shutterstock)

Where do we begin with Indonesia? T he island-hopping? The many moving and unusual religious festivals that take place? The melting pot of cultures, evident particularly in its cuisine? There's so much to see and do - you could spend months here and never get bored.

It won't be the quietest month in Indonesia, as temperatures reach up to a scorching 30°C and visitors do come to many of the 17,000+ islands that make up Indonesia for a dose of glorious sun. But as its dry season, you've got a good chance of ideal weather on all the islands.

Bali is a classic, as is Java – the most populous island in the country, where you'll find the capital city, Jakarta.

We'd also suggest Sumatra, and Komodo Island for a unique glimpse at the Komodo Dragon in its natural habitat. Finally, Nusa Tenggara (the Lesser Sunda Islands) are all good places to start.

20. French Polynesia

Singing and dancing performances are part of French Polynesia's Heiva Festival in July (agefotostock/Alamy Stock Photo)

French Polynesia is a long-haul destination worth every minute of the journey, with its largest island Tahiti and neighbouring island Bora Bora being the most sought-after. Nowhere is perfect, but this volcanic archipelago comes pretty close, with its crystal-clear ocean waters, black-sand beaches, waterfalls, and some of the world’s most idyllic accommodation (you’ve undoubtedly seen the island’s overwater bungalows on your Instagram feed). Not to mention its weather, which hovers around 30 °C  year-round, with July being the midst of its dry season.  

But beyond its beauty and weather, July is when you can experience Heiva Festival. It’s one of the world’s oldest festivals, showcasing Polynesian heritage through a colourful, two-week-long celebration. Most of the islands participate in the festival in some form, with events including everything from song and dance performances, to sporting competitions (the canoe race is best known). 

French Polynesia is perfect for adventurers. Follow walking trails on foot or horseback to breathtaking lookout points, or go diving or snorkelling to see the thriving wildlife in the island’s surrounding waters. As a bonus, July is also the beginning of whale-watching season in French Polynesia.

21. Thailand

A yacht around the island of Phuket Shutterstock)

July is rainy season in Thailand , but rainy season gets a bad rap. You have to expect downpours of course, but they rarely last all day and have the added bonus of creating incredible waterfalls. Accommodation tends to be cheaper, too.

Visit the north of Thailand in July to experience Phi Ta Khon, or Ghost Festival. The festival's origins are partly based on one of Buddha's past lives when he was a prince who was presumed dead after  a long journey – but his safe return led to  celebrations so huge they were said to wake the dead.  As well as  parades, music shows and pageants, you can watch l ocals dressed in ghostly masks compete in games. 

Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival also takes place in the north this month. What began as a Buddhist tradition of donating candles to monks has morphed into spectacle of float-like candles parading to local temples.

The best July destinations for arts and culture

22. philadelphia, usa.

Independence Hall in Philadelphia (Shutterstock)

A sprawling, metropolitan city in the United States of America  seems an obvious choice for July, right? San Francisco, New York, Seattle, Portland, Houston, or pretty much anywhere will be sure to offer you the full red-white-and-blue experience. There'll be fireworks and parades galore in celebration of Independence Day, taking place annually on the fourth of the month.

We've picked Philadelphia due to  being  slightly more  off the radar compared to other big-hitting US cities, but more so for its history.  Philly is where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776, so we really couldn't think of a better spot to honour the occasion. Expect a week full of concerts, parades and fun activities, with the city's main event being the firework display above the Philadelphia Museum of Art. 

23. Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto's Gion Festival is one of Japan's biggest (Shutterstock)

Kyoto's Gion Matsuri (Gion Festival) is one of Japan's most famous annual celebrations, taking place throughout July. It's been going since the year 869, when the reigning emperor ordered worship at the Yakasa Shrine, in hopes that it would prevent the plague.

It's part of the fabric of the city, with rituals, ceremonies and parades taking place throughout the month. On the 17 and 24 July, traditional parade floats glide through packed streets, and the festivities culminate on the last day of the month, resulting in another street celebration, known as the 'purification' closing ceremony.

It's worth witnessing the magic, especially if you have a keen interest in Japanese tradition and culture. But if you want to experience Gion Matsuri among welcoming locals, you should book what needs booking well in advance. 

What makes this year even more special? The event has been cancelled in the past three years due to coronavirus, so 2023 will be an exciting return. 

24. Montreal, Canada

A float in Montreal's July comedy festival, Just For Laughs (Shutterstock)

Montreal's Just For Laughs festival does involve people in the streets and arty parade floats, but it's all decidedly a bit less serious.

The comedy festival started in 1983, and has laughed its way to the top: it's now said to be the largest comedy festival in the world. Typically, it takes place over two to three weeks in July, and offers locals and visitors a variety of stand-up shows, comedy nights and evening events  – taking place in many different locations across the city.

Expect showcases for the biggest names in US and Canadian comedy, a few of British comedy's biggest stars, as well as new talent and a bit of off-beat entertainment...

25. Mallorca, Spain

Valldemossa, Majorca (Shutterstock)

One of the four main Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea, Mallorca comes alive in mid July with the Virgin of Carmen Festival (also known as Día de la Virgen del Carmen fiesta) . The festival dates back to the 13th century, when a monk had a   vision of the Virgin Mary with her baby son in her arms. Today, particularly in coastal areas, visitors can watch an effigy of the virgin guide  a procession of floats carried by fishermen down to the sea, where the parade continues on illuminated boats as fireworks are set off to music. 

Later in the month, on 28 July, you can also attend a festival dedicated to Saint Catalina Thomas, Mallorca's only   patron saint. A procession of carriages decorated with ribbons and flowers takes place  in the saint's former home town of  Valldemossa. 

July is the high season for tourists, but it's possible to get off the beaten track after you've finished enjoying the festivities. Visit the UNESCO-listed Serra de Tramuntana mountains that line the backbone of the island to follow scenic winding roads (beware, you'll need a head for heights) and visit the traditional villages nestled into its valleys, such as  Sóller  and  Deià.

26. Mongolia

The opening ceremony at Nadaam Festival (Lucy Brown/Shutterstock)

Every July, Mongolia celebrates the country's culture and unique sports at Naadam Festival . Its name roughly translates to 'Manly Festival', and focusses on three main nomadic events: archery, horse racing and wrestling. Although women do not take part in the latter, young girls can now compete in the horse racing, and women in the archery.

As one of the biggest festivals in Mongolia's cultural calendar, you'll see participants and locals dressed in traditional clothing. Beyond the sports, there are concerts and parades to keep you entertained, plus plenty of opportunities to sample traditional cuisine, such as  khuushuur  (fried dumplings) and  airag  (fermented mare's milk). 

All the main events take place in Ulaanbaatar, but t he festival can be enjoyed across Mongolia . Those who want to have a more remote, intimate experience should head into the countryside: Khovd in the west or Khatgal in the north are known to also known to put on a show.

27. St Lucia

Parading the streets in St Lucia during Carnival (Angela N Perryman/Shutterstock)

St Lucia Carnival is the highlight of summer in the Caribbean. Celebrations are centred around the Castries, which comes to life with Soca, Calypso, and steel-pan performances by artists from St Lucia and neighbouring islands. If planning your visit, make sure to sign up to your favourite fetes (planned parties) before they sell out.

The event culminates on the final days during the National Parade, where thousands take to the streets as part of marching bands, wearing brightly-coloured costumes embellished with feathers and sequins. Visitors and locals can spectate, but can also join the bands as they take to the streets, if registered early enough.

St Lucia Carnival originated in 1947, when a small crowd first paraded the island . More than 75 years later, around 30,000 revellers join the party every year.

You may also like:

The best places to visit in may, the best places to visit in june, the best places to visit in august, related articles, looking for inspiration.

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The 13 best places to travel in July 2024

From ski slopes to beach bliss, these are the very best places to visit in July this year. We'll see you there!

July is  the   month for holidays. July means summer, freedom, rising temperatures and more festivals than you can imagine. And don’t let its obvious-ness put you off; for plenty of great cities and countries, the seventh month is the best possible time you can visit.

Our list of the best places to visit in July touches every corner of the globe (the globe doesn’t have corners, for the record), from  Montreal  and Madagascar to the  Netherlands  and  New Zealand . So bring out your swimsuits or shorts and get ready for the summer of a lifetime. Obviously,  places really start to get busy in July, so make sure you book ahead. See you there!

RECOMMENDED: 🧳  Full guide to the   best places to travel 🏘️ The world's   coolest neighbourhoods 📸 The best   cities for culture   right now

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Best places to travel in July

1.  Amsterdam, Netherlands

July in Amsterdam is all about good food, good weather and good vibes. Lazy summer days are best spent hanging out in Vondelpark, where you can often catch free open-air comedy, dance and musical performances, or at Roest urban beach, which comes complete with an adult-friendly jungle gym. And although the city’s usual festivities are likely to be muted this year, keep an eye out for street food markets and events marking the city’s normally effervescent Pride season.

Discover the best  things to do in Amsterdam

2.  Greenland

Touted by some as ‘the new  Iceland ’, Greenland may be more popular than ever before, but it’s still a long way behind its oversaturated sibling – all the better for those wanting to get off the beaten track. July is technically high season here, and hotels do book up fast, but this is the world’s largest (and arguably wildest) island, and there are plenty of opportunities to find relative solitude. In it for the icebergs? Join a nighttime cruise of Unesco-listed Ilulissat Icefjord (the size of 66,000 football fields), where until around the 24th of the month, the midnight sun sets a cast of creaking bergs aglow in hues of pink, purple and orange.

3.  Cape Town, South Africa

Hoping to see some whales while in Cape Town? July is the beginning of whale season in this part of the world, so best to get ahead of the game and set up camp accordingly, with southern right and humpback whales most likely to show their faces at this early juncture. Elsewhere in the city, winter is at its peak, meaning mild temperatures and a charming atmosphere free of the summer sizzle. You’ll have the sights to yourself in July here.  Obviously, check out the new Time Out Market Cape Town  when you're there. 

4.  Udaipur, India

A popular destination for tourists, this tropical subcontinent has something to offer all year round, but in July temperatures cool down a little following May and June (but it’s still hot, don’t worry). Known as the ‘City of lakes’, Udaipur is a beautiful city in the heart of the state of Rajasthan, with historic palaces, temples, a wildlife sanctuary and a ton of markets for shopping. Be sure to spend your evenings in a rooftop cafe for fantastic food with a view. End the day sitting next to the water and soak up the tranquility. 

Discover the top places to visit in India  

5.  South Island, New Zealand

With sweet ski slopes, luxury hot springs and fantastic whale watching opportunities, New Zealand’s South Island is a no-brainer when it comes to winter escapes. The coldest months also offer the chance to witness the aurora australis (southern lights) dancing along the horizon, best spotted in Dunedin close to a new moon. There are yet more reasons to look skyward in July: the rise of the Pleiades star cluster marks the start of Matariki (Maori New Year), which is celebrated with cultural festivals and feasts. Visit Mt John Observatory in Tekapo, which sits within an international dark sky reserve, for unbeatable stargazing.

Discover the best  things to do in New Zealand

6.  Northwest England

We’ll be the first to admit that the weather in the northwest of England can be, how do we say, a little less than optimum. Drizzle persists for most of the year, but July sees the sun finally break through with all the enthusiasm of an excitable child. The big cities of the northwest follow suit, with Liverpool and Manchester in particular shining brightest when the sun is out. And while you ’ re there, don't miss out on The Beatles exhibition, celebrating 60 years of ‘A Hard Day ’ s Night’ (July 10, 2024). Sure, the north is defined by its drizzle, but you can’t beat an Aigburth beer garden on a Saturday afternoon. Throw in some excellent park festivals, and you’ve got yourself a very special part of the world indeed.

7.  Hoi An, Vietnam

As the monsoon rains fall in  Hanoi  and Ho Chi Minh City, savvy travellers in  Vietnam  head to the central coast, where the weather is dry and warm. Some of the country’s most beautiful beaches are right here, along with Unesco-listed cities and jaw-dropping national parks. Get mesmerised witnessing the Lantern Festival on 19th July in the historic port city of  Hoi An , where lantern-strewn streets reveal Chinese temples and ancient teahouses. Then head out of town to laze on the stretches of white sand around  Da Nang , brave Hai Van Pass on a motorbike tour, and visit Hue’s Imperial citadel before heading inland to see the gargantuan Phong Na Caves.

Discover the best  things to do in Hoi An

8.  Montreal, Canada

Montreal ’s Canada Day celebrations kickstart a whole month of summer fun in a city more often associated with icy winters. The highlights usually include Sainte Catherine Street Fair (the largest in the country) and the world’s biggest international comedy festival, Just for Laughs, while Cirque Festival ensures you won’t have to bend over backwards to find street entertainment – performers from Cirque du Soleil, the National Circus School and others put on tonnes of shows to celebrate one of Quebec ’s most famous art forms. But if festival-hopping isn’t your sort of thing, fear not. July is still a great time to discover this incredible city – and  fuel up courtesy of the city’s best chefs at  Time Out Market Montreal .

Discover the best things to do in Montreal

9.  Madagascar

Home to some of the most diverse wildlife on the planet, Madagascar is a joy to visit in July, when the weather is cooler and drier, making lemur spotting on rainforest treks more comfortable. Humpback whales migrate here to calve their young at this time of year – spot them in Tulear and Nosy Be, or experience the humpback whale festival on Nosy Boraha. In Morondava, the local community celebrates the island’s precious ecology with the Baobab Fosa festival, where you can spot fossa (a relative of the mongoose), and walk the dazzling Avenue of the Baobabs.

10.  Singapore

Singapore is a food lover’s dream year-round, but to taste it at its best, you’ll want to head there in July. That’s when the island city celebrates its multicultural cuisine with the Singapore Food Festival. From cooking masterclasses and fine dining events to a street food extravaganza, this week-long celebration of local flavour is worth skipping breakfast for. Had enough of the heat? Find refuge in the air-conditioned malls on Orchard Road and indulge in a spot of retail therapy – the Great Singapore Sale runs nearly all month, offering great deals and steep discounts. 

Discover the best  things to do in Singapore

11.  West Coast, North America

Sound the road trip klaxon! California and the Pacific Northwest are calling. Apart from July 4, when roads in the US will be rammed with long weekenders on their way to family barbecues and baseball games, this month is a fine time to discover the best of the American and Canadian West Coast. Whether you want to catch some rays in San Diego , forest bathe in Oregon , tour Seattle ’s street art or simply make the most of Vancouver 's least rainy month of the year, this slice of North America is as diverse as its days are long. And make sure to catch Comic Con in California from 25-28 July 2024.

Discover the best stops on a  California road trip

12.  Japan

Following the country’s reopening last year,  Japan ’s capital Tokyo and other key sights have reverted back to the norm, although that still means hot and busy. So if you can, make time earlier in the month to explore the likes of  Kyoto ,  Osaka  and Hiroshima, as well as lesser-known spots such as Shiretoko Peninsula or Hateruma Island. Or, if you’re shorter on time, stick to  day trips from the city  and complete your own athletic feats by  summiting Mount Fuji  or catching some waves in surf town Kamakura.

Discover the best  things to do in Japan

13.  Provence, France

From Avignon and Marseille to Nice , St Tropez and Cannes, Provence is packed with historic cities and stylish towns – but don’t forget the swathes of pastoral bliss in between. Come in July to sample crisp dry rosé at Château Gassier (which usually runs outdoor tastings and a cinema under the stars in the summer months), frolic in the lavender fields around Aix en Provence and Senanque Abbey before the harvest, join the Fête Nationale celebrations in pretty much every single town and village, or catch a glimpse of Tour de France riders along the dizzyingly high trail of Mont Ventoux.

Discover the best  places to visit in France

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Best Countries to Visit in July 2024

Taking the temperature into consideration, July can is well-known for being one of the hottest months of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. Known for its highly long winters, Canada has some of the best natural wonders, filled with pristine nature and astonishing sights. The best time to visit Canada is during the summer months, as all attractions are open at this time. Canada is huge, and each of its provinces and territories comes equipped with national landmarks.

Niagara Falls is an extremely popular destination. Bordering the state of New York , Niagara Falls is an international marvel, and its waterfall generates enough hydroelectric power to keep the lights running in millions of households.

Switzerland

Nestled between western Europe 's most popular countries, Switzerland started as a strategic settlement in the mountains to discourage raiders and invaders. Tourists often wonder why Switzerland is the most popular "neutral" country in the world, and are quickly satisfied when they get there. It is clear from its high hills and endless greenery that anyone trying to invade this country would have an extremely difficult time, and would not be worth the effort of a mountainous reward. This has given Switzerland a unique place in society, harboring some of the World 's best tourist attractions, ski destinations, and economic developments.

What's not to love about Italy? Due to its climate, Italy has a more brisk climate, so it can be visited anytime during the year, but this is especially true in July. The calmer Venetian waters are sure to provide an exhilarating adventure for those who are looking for a romantic gondola ride. It is also the season where most of the crop has been turned into its final product, making ingredients taste all that much better in authentic Italian cuisine.

Italy was created out of a merging of city-states, that were each considered global superpowers during the 14th to 16th centuries. Out of necessity, Italy was created by forming a union of these powers, once other countries decided to plunder their wealth. Because of this, each Italian city is unique and has its own distinct culture. From Florence to Rome , there are thousands of years of history just waiting to be explored.

The term "June bride" explains the popularity and desire of having matrimonial ceremonies in June. Following this, it is customary to go to an amazing and exotic destination for a honeymoon trip. Seychelles, therefore, is the prime destination for July, as it is right after the most popular month of wedding celebrations. It is an archipelago of over 115 islands, which makes Seychelles one of the most pristine and untouched natural beauties in the world. Seychelles lies in the western part of the Indian Ocean, giving the islands a hotbed that greatly influences its climate. The water is clear, and activities are in abundance. Seychelles is picturesque and is home to an enormous number of luxurious hotels and clubs.

• Different sources and individuals may place different degrees of importance upon the many individual qualities of a given destination, resulting in different lists. Multiple lists are displayed here for comparison and contrast.
• Specific locations or attractions mentioned by source are listed for sources that include them.
• Wanderlust rankings skipped #5. This omission has been replicated here for the sake of consistency. Also, the 11th and 14th spots are shared by multiple countries.

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• The 27 best places to visit in July - Wanderlust
• Where to Go in July: Top 20 Destinations
• The best places to travel in July 2023 - Time Out
• 26 Best Places To Visit In July In The World - Travel Triangle
• Best Countries To Visit In July for Enchanting Vacay - Holidify

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Where to go in July: 20 top destinations

By Sarah James

Summer’s in full swing and Europe is buzzing: everywhere from big cities, where giddy crowds pack out patios, riversides, parks; to seaside towns, all ice creams and sand-speckled picnics. Elsewhere, there are rich pickings for gourmands, as the season’s bounty bursts forth: farmer’s markets overflow, foragers are out in force, and the world’s finest kitchens seem spoiled for choice. There’s also a chance to catch Canada in a rare moment of warmth. Or just crash out on the beach; we wouldn’t judge. The sun is strong and temperatures soar far and wide — Indonesia , Mexico , even Wales , for god’s sake. Enjoy.

Temperature: 28°C high; 23°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 12 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT+4

The Indian Ocean islands of the Seychelles , with their sweeping white beaches, clear blue waters and diverse wildlife, must be the most sought-after holiday spots in the world. North Island is sensational, a VIP destination, with everyone from George Clooney to honeymooning royals staying in the thatched tree houses suspended on a hillside between forest and ocean. On Frégate Island Private , guests share the space with aldabra giant tortoises and rare magpie robins. If you're visiting the World Heritage Site Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, the Raffles Praslin hotel is a beautiful spot to stay nearby.

Sustainable travel tip: Happily, the Seychelles has a great track record of protecting its dreamy environment, from turning uninhabited islands into nature reserves to marine conservation. Pay a visit to carbon-neutral Cousin Island Special Reserve , where you’ll meet giant tortoises, hawksbill turtles and all manner of exotic birds, with park fees reinvested into the reserve.

Where to stay: Four Seasons Seychelles on Mahé, which opened in 2009, is still at the top of its game, with 67 villas secreted among 69 hectares of wonderfully landscaped grounds.

Provence, France

Temperature: 30°C high; 18°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 2 hours Time difference: GMT+1

Provence is the French fairytale. All lavish green vineyards, hand-churned cheeses and fertile earth, framed by cinematic cliff-top drives, Roman ruins and seductive seaside towns. And in July: lavender ! Great purple fields of painterly, scented beauty, much of which is, like most things in France , destined for the dinner table – popping up in delicious artisan honeys and sorbets. July is also when the markets are at their finest, flaunting Provence’s blessed abundance. Think basketfuls of fresh olives, tomatoes, garlic, orchard fruits. Prolong the magic long past bedtime with stays in centuries-old mansions and chateaus.

Sustainable travel tip: Take a leisurely train ride from London to Aix-en-Provence, via Paris. After disembarking the Eurostar in the French capital (two hours 15 minutes from London), catch a TGV Duplex to Aix (three hours).

Where to stay: La Bastide de Gordes is a chic antique-filled space with stunning views over one of France's prettiest towns. For a private stay, we love this charming 12th century Airbnb apartment in Saint-Paul-de-Vence or if you're travelling with the whole crew, this beautiful St Remy villa with room for ten guests.

Puglia, Italy

Temperature: 31°C high; 16°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 2 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

In the heel of Italy, Puglia moves to its own beat. It's slower, quieter, and more laidback than many parts of the country, much of it still waiting to be discovered by holiday-makers. And it also has some excellent sandy beaches: days are best spent hanging out in one of the rustic beach clubs dotted along the coast with a bottle of Prosecco. Puglia is starting to be known for its food scene, thanks to the wonderful local produce, olive oil and ice cream. Stay in a traditional masseria or trullo, and spend the evenings exploring the back streets of Puglia's beautiful old towns, Savelletri , Ostuni and baroque Lecce.

Sustainable travel tip: London to Lecce by train is perfectly doable. Take the Eurostar from London to Paris (two hours 15 minutes), followed by a Thello sleeper train to Milan. From Milan, an early-morning Frecciabianca train heads to Lecce, taking 8-9 hours.

Where to stay: Masseria Torre Coccaro & Torre Maizza , a delightfully laid-back place that combines Puglian rusticity with touches of Frenchified elegance. For sea views, check in to Don Ferrante , one of our favourite hotels in Puglia .

Temperature: 19°C high; 14°C low Season: summer Travel time from London: 1 hour 10 minutes Time difference: GMT+0

When the sun's shining there's nowhere quite like the Cornish coast, which catches the best of the UK 's weather in July. The unparalleled, long, sandy beaches crash with boisterous waves - excellent for surfing - and low tide reveals natural rock pools for swimming. Foodies flock here for the excellent seafood in Penzance and Padstow . Culture vultures head to St Ives for the Tate, but the true charm of the town lies in exploring the artists' studios along the cobbled streets and eating freshly caught crab on the seafront. The historic fishing village of Mousehole is a real gem and has retained its rugged authenticity.

Sustainable travel tip: Taking the train to Cornwall whisks you through some of England’s best scenery, both along the coast and inland. Major stops on the way down to the tip include Newquay, Saltash, St Ives, Truro and Penzance.

Where to stay: The Idle Rocks , a brilliantly reimagined 100-year-old building on the waterfront in the middle of St Mawes.

Canggu, Bali

Temperature: 31°C high; 22°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 17 hours Time difference: GMT+8

Canggu , a formerly quiet bit of Bali is now buzzing with casual cafés serving vegan breakfast bowls to sun-bleached digital nomads, all of them designing, writing, coding or consulting with only a MacBook and a glittering sea view. Hot hotels have quickly followed: The Slow offers retro-modernist suites and a soundtrack by LA-based Reverberation Radio. And newest opening Como Uma Canggu has just upped the ante with duplexes packing their own rooftop pools. By night, Canggu hipsters head for The Lawn, a laidback, barefoot beach club serving up old-school hip-hop and hibiscus cocktails. They pair best with a temperate July evening, when Bali is in its sunny, surfie prime.

Sustainable travel tip: Overtourism in Bali is well documented, and its attendant pollution most severely affects locals, who make little money from the tourism boom (the lion’s share of that wealth goes to the government and foreign investors). JED is an ecotourism network owned by the communities of four local villages, offering trips that not only bring you up close to a more authentic Bali, but give back to the Balinese.

Where to stay: The Slow , a super-coveted hotel that is redefining Bali's classic hotel experience, a tropical brutalist venture that put Canggu on the map.

Corsica and Sardinia

Temperature: 30°C high; 19°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 2 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

Within kissing distance of each other, these Mediterranean islands are lovely in July, when they get around 11 hours of sun a day. French Corsica is an island you'll want to explore in full - from the secluded northern fishing villages of Cap Corse, where the new Misíncu hotel sits overlooking the rugged coast, to a windsurfers' paradise in Bonifacio and the beautiful sandy beaches near Porto-Vecchio, where Design Hotels' Casadelmar overlooks the bay. To escape the crowds, rent a house on the beach-fringed Domaine de Murtoli estate. Italian Sardinia 's Costa Smeralda is sensational, although busy in July. Our tip: head to La Maddalena , a wild, protected archipelago off the coast with the best beaches, turquoise seas and sandy coves. It's breathtakingly beautiful.

Sustainable travel tip: Consider tearing yourself away from Corsica’s busy coast to explore its mountainous interior. Inntravel , for example, offers inland walking itineraries that explore ancient villages and vineyards, with overnights in small family-run hotels and meals at restaurants that focus on regional food.

Where to stay: Occupying a series of traditional low-lying stazzi, the Cascioni combines five-star luxury and pared-back style with enough eco-credentials to keep a clear conscience as you wallow in your private plunge pool .

Naxos, Greece

Temperature: 27°C high; 23°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 5 hours 40 minutes Time difference: GMT+2

Picking the most beautiful Greek island is like picking the most big-headed Gallagher brother: virtually impossible. But if we were forced, Naxos in July just might be the answer. The largest of the Cyclades, its sandy beaches run the gamut from family-friendly frolickers in the west (Agios Prokopios), to the south’s hidden wildlings, where you can ride horses over dramatic dunes (Plaka) or brave powerful winds on a kiteboard (Mikri Vigla). And though not exactly a hidden gem, the pace remains pleasantly drowsy, whether kicking back in beach bars or supping at mountain village tavernas. At the latter, you’ll be drowsier still after generous sloshes of homemade wine and local citron liqueur.

Sustainable travel tip: Catch a ferry from Athens to Naxos and arrive on the island in a little over four hours. If you’re dedicated, you can travel from London to Athens by train inside of three days. Take the Eurostar to Paris (two hours 15 minutes), followed by a TGV to Munich (six hours), and from here the overnight Lisinski sleeper train to Zagreb. Next day, take a train to Belgrade (seven hours), and spend a night and a day in the Serbian capital. An overnight train will then take you to Thessaloniki, from where you can enjoy a very scenic journey on an InterCity train to Athens (four hours).

Where to stay: Corona Borealis is a seven-suite retreat with a pool poised for sunset and a private cove where you can have supper under the stars.

Temperature: 14°C high; 9°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 2 hours 50 minutes Time difference: GMT+0

Chances are you won't be going to Iceland for the weather, but it's certainly most pleasant in July. The long days mean more time to explore the almost otherworldly natural landscape – take a dip in Geysir's hot springs or visit Thingvellir National Park, where the ION Hotel offers hiking, diving and fishing excursions. Or head north to the Troll Peninsula for an actioan-packed trip. Foodies will love the capital, Reykjavik , where the Nordic folk-food movement has taken hold, with an emphasis on fresh fish and local lamb. Don't miss a visit to Harpa, Reykjavik's new concert hall with its impressive multi-faceted glass façade.

Sustainable travel tip: Iceland’s meteoric rise from remote unknown to established tourist destination has put a strain on the Reykjavik area in recent years. Consider striking out for the country’s more isolated corners to rediscover that frontier magic and bring tourism kronas to rural communities. Sea-kayaking the Westfjords, for example, sees you camping on deserted islands, with no sign of another human for days. Use local operators who know the area – DIY trips can damage fragile landscapes.

Where to stay: The Retreat at Blue Lagoon , a hotel in the bubbling lava fields making the most of the curative waters.

CNT Editors

Adam Turner

Connor Sturges

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

Temperature: 26°C high; 15°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 14 hours Time difference: GMT+2

What a comeback! Recovering from decades of civil war, Mozambique has never looked better, particularly in July when the country basks in blissful tropical weather. Explore Gorongosa National Park , known as Africa's 'Lost Eden,' where Explorer's Camp offers a traditional safari experience. Post-safari action, head north to the Nacala Coast and beachside Stone Town or Nuarro, where centuries of trade and empire have left faded architectures and crumbling artefacts scattered along the coastline. Offshore, the five islands of the beautiful Bazaruto archipelago have brilliant-white beaches, still crowd-free, and divers will delight in the surrounding protected marine park. Stay in one of the 12 huts at AndBeyond's Benguerra Lodge , or at Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort and Spa. Or head to the south of Mozambique for miles of empty beaches and endless shores.

Sustainable travel tip: Whale watching has become particularly popular on Ilha de Mozambique – where you’ll find Stone Town – but bad practices have, in recent years, apparently resulted in fewer whales following their traditional migration patterns here. Ilha Blue Island Safaris works to promote responsible whale watching in the area, which isn’t just good for whales, but also for the locals who make a living from leading tours.

Where to stay: Stay at Azura Benguerra Island to slot into island life beautifully – a laidback and sophisticated beach hotel with a sunny disposition.

Stockholm, Sweden

Temperature: 24°C high; 15°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 2 hours 25 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

Swedish people do summer well. The warm weather practically begs you to jump off your bicycle and take off your clothes for some city-centre swimming, or go further afield for a dip off one of the lo-fi islands nearby. Jump in at Norr Mälarstrand, on the sandy beach of Kungsholmen, or, for the daring, the waters in front of the City Hall. Stockholm 's Sofo neighbourhood is buzzing with a young crowd hanging out in the cafés and artisan shops and a food scene that's finding its way into the spotlight.

Sustainable travel tip: You can reach Stockholm by train within a couple of days. First, take the Eurostar from London to Brussels, followed by a high-speed ICE to Cologne and then an InterCity to Hamburg (the journey from London to Hamburg, including wait times, is about 10 hours). Next morning, it’s a 4.5-hour journey to Copenhagen on the Danish IC3 intercity train. Finally, expect to spend around 5.5 hours on the X2000 high-speed to Stockholm. Railbookers can plan your travel if you don’t fancy doing it yourself.

Where to stay: Ett Hem , an ultra-stylish townhouse hotel, small in scale but big on luxury. The flawless interiors are actually incredibly comfortable, plus there’s a little library and interesting art everywhere.

Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

Temperature: 33°C high; 21°C low Season: wet Travel time from UK: 10 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT-5

It’s not just insanely beautiful beaches and postcard-blue Caribbean , Mexico ’s dazzling tropical coast is also a trove of adventure. Flee Cancun for Isla Mujeres in July when the island hosts the annual Whale Shark Festival and hundreds of sharks gather offshore. The event raises awareness about conservation, while allowing swimmers to share the water with the gentle giants in a sustainable manner. Then head down to Tulum (or Isla Holbox ) where days start with sun salutations and end on toes-in-the-sand candlelit dinners. Hot reservations are easier to come by as this is technically rainy season; July, however, typically heralds a reprieve from the torrent.

Sustainable travel tip: Where Tulum’s not-so-sustainable practices have made headlines, Isla Holbox’s MO is small-scale and local. The lack of paved roads all but mandates getting around by bicycle; the most convenient way to arrive is by 30-minute ferry from the mainland; its restaurants, bars and stores are locally owned; and single-use plastics have been banned since 2018.

Where to stay: Hacienda Uayamon , a former henequen estate that can date its origins as far back as 1685, has a main house and 12 lavish guest villas to choose from.

Coronet Peak, New Zealand

Temperature: 2°C high; -7°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 1 day 3 hours Time difference: GMT+12

Contrarians keen for snow in July ought to pack their skis for Coronet Peak, on New Zealand ’s South Island. It’s high season in the country’s oldest ski field, when packs of gnarly dudes bring a party atmosphere, and slopes stay open until 9pm. Better still, Queenstown is just a 20-minute drive away, where energy-flushed locals seem drunk on the scenery. How else do you explain the preoccupation with flinging yourself off things – this is the birthplace of bungee jumping, and thrums with outfitters touting zip-lining and heli-skiing. One need not risk life and limb to enjoy the surrounding however: snow-dusted Southern Alps backdrop mirror-still Lake Wakatipu, and vineyards come with mountain views and world-famous Pinot Noir.

Sustainable travel tip: The draw of South Island is its great outdoors, and if you’re looking to get back to basics with style, a stay in a PurePod is a great – and sustainable – bet. The pods, found in various remote locations across the island, are glass-walled tiny houses tucked into scenic landscapes, and run almost entirely on solar electricity and biofuel.

Where to stay: The Hotel Britomart , in Auckland, is New Zealand’s most eco-friendly hotel, folded into the deep green of the Lord of the Rings landscape.

Berlin, Germany

Temperature: 24°C high; 15°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 2 hours Time difference: GMT+1

Berlin is brilliant whenever you visit. But July’s warm days are best for three things the German capital excels at: beer gardens, café culture and park life. Chilled-out Berliners clink steins along the River Spree or picnic in the Tiergarten. The city also offers an endless assortment of shabbu chic surroundings for sipping craft coffee and cocktails. Their interiors are perhaps sourced from Prenzlauer Berg’s legendary Mauerpark Sunday flea market, where hipster karaoke draws huge crowds on sunny afternoons. And then there are July’s festivals – from the folk funfair at Zentraler Festplatz, to the arts Biennale, and illuminated creations at Botanical Night in the Botanical Gardens.

Sustainable travel tip: It’s very easy to get to Berlin by train. Take the Eurostar from London to Brussels (two hours), followed by a high-speed train to Cologne (one hour, 50 minutes), and finally a high-speed ICE2 to Berlin (four hours, 15 minutes).

Where to stay: Hotel Am Steinplatz , a restored Art Nouveau gem that has hosted Brigitte Bardot and Luciano Pavarotti during its storied history.

Cartagena, Colombia

Temperature: 32°C high; 26°C low Season: wet Travel time from UK: 14 hours Time difference: GMT-5

Increasingly a contender for the Caribbean 's coolest city, Cartagena has a buzz about it right now, making it high on our wishlist for July, when the weather is great. A number of new hotels , bars and restaurants have popped up in the Colombian city with Colombian cooking now rivalling that of Peru in South American foodie circles. Spend lazy days exploring the pretty colonial architecture of the old town followed by hip-swinging evenings drinking and dancing long into the night.

Sustainable travel tip: At first look, Interno is just like any number of hip-looking Cartagena restaurants – palm-print wallpaper, pink-steel bars, exposed brick and piping – but this 60-seat joint actually sits within Cartagena’s San Diego women’s prison. The kitchen and waiting teams are made up of soon-to-be-released inmates, who are learning skills to help them into a career on the outside. Not only is the food excellent (some of the staff were trained by Spanish Michelin-starred chef Koldo Miranda), but your money is fed back into Accion Interna, the restaurant’s parent foundation, which funds training and rehabilitation programmes in prisons across Colombia. Interno closed for a spell in December 2019, but is due to reopen – check the site for updates.

Where to stay: Casa San Agustin , the top boutique hotel in the old walled city, has three 18th-century houses knocked through to form one glorious space.

Temperature: 23°C high; 10°C low Season: cool Travel time from UK: 8 hours 35 minutes Time difference: GMT+3

Kenya in July has the greatest show on earth: raw beauty, sweeping plains, the Great Migration and the Big Five. The rainy season is over, and you can wake up to see flocks of birds and grazing gazelles so close you could almost reach out and touch them. July is when the wildebeest make the great migration from the Serengeti to the Masai Mara. There are excellent views from the Mahali Mzuri safari camp, part of Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Collection, and the Angama Mara on the Oloololo Escarpment, not far from the Mara Triangle. For a safari-and-beach holiday in Kenya, head for Watamu on the coast, where golden, sandy beaches stretch for miles, and there's not another soul in sight.

Sustainable travel tip: Though Kenya’s national parks and wildlife reserves have done a great job of protecting wildlife, the same cannot often be said for local communities, who are generally evicted from the land. A safari on a conservancy, though, helps both wildlife and people: landowners agree to manage their territories in a sustainable manner, and lease parts of them to safari companies, with this lease money being funnelled back into the community and the land.

Where to stay: Medina Palms stands out both in terms of style - it takes its design from Moroccan medinas - and comfort. Top-level suites have their own courtyards, and the four-bedroomed oceanfront villa has a rooftop plunge pool.

Fiji, South Pacific

Temperature: 28°C high; 20°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 1 day 1 hour Time difference: GMT+12

July is the best time to visit the South Pacific islands of Fiji . It's dry season and the water is at its clearest. The archipelago is one of the best places to dive in the world, surrounded by beautiful reefs which are home to around 1,000 species of fish; but on a clear day, a simple snorkel is just as good. For total escapism, head to private Dolphin Island , just off the Sun Coast of Viti Levu, Fiji's mainland, or stay in one of the 25 wood-and-glass villas at eco-friendly Laucala Island . The Fijians are famously friendly but nowhere is the welcoming song so heartfelt as at the locally owned Likuliku Lagoon Resort , where days ebb and flow with the tide.

Sustainable travel tip: The archipelago has been busy reinventing itself after the devastating impact of 2016’s Cyclone Winston, moving away from lavish honeymoon experiences to more eco-conscious escapes. Several new hotels are putting local culture and environment front and centre: the new Six Senses on Malolo Island, for example, is powered by solar panels and Tesla batteries, grows its own organic produce and uses worm-based septic tanks.

Where to stay: The Brando in French Polynesia is a small, private atoll with an elegant, low-impact, hotel.

Temperature: 19°C high; 11°C low Season: summer Travel time from London: 2 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT+0

For the longest time, Wales was a punchline – but it’s having the last laugh. Rhossili Bay, three miles of golden sand on the Gower Peninsula, has twice been named Europe’s best beach within the past five years. And the grand opening of the Wales Coast Path, tracing an 870-mile hiking route, shows off even more of its immaculate coast. Crammed with castles and craggy peaks, an impressive 20 percent of Wales is protected by the national park system — heaven for outdoorsy types. And though this compact country is known for its downpours, July has semi-reliably good weather (temperatures in the early 20Cs), before school holiday madness consumes August. Sunshine also brings festivals, like historic, stone-hewn Monmouth’s feast of fringe art, music and food. After a spot of salt-of-the-earth merrymaking, seek out the town’s restaurant with rooms, The Whitebrook — a Michelin-starred celebration of Wye Valley ingredients, featuring hedgerow pickings and local asparagus.

Sustainable travel tip: Plenty of Wales’s main attractions are served by train lines, including Monmouthshire, the Wye Valley, Pembroke, Abergavenny (on the south-eastern edge of Brecon Beacons) and Bangor (at the north-western edge of Snowdonia).

Where to stay: The Grove of Narberth , an 18th-century, Grade II-listed country house in Pembrokeshire, decorated in a tasteful mix of contemporary and traditional.

Benicassim, Spain

Temperature: 30°C high; 21°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 2 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

Valencia’s Castellón province has largely remained a Spanish secret, a sedate little pocket of pretty beaches, green mountains and crumbling medieval villages that domestic tourists all-too-happily keep to themselves. The exception, of course, is July’s massive Benicassim music festival. Every year, the seaside resort of the same name is breached by good-time Brits drawn to an always excellent line-up (The Weeknd, Foals and Kasabian in previous years), consistently sunny weather, and 6km of beaches for post-party recovery. (Take that, Glastonbury.) But festival-goers would do well to explore more of this under-visited coast, particularly after Castellón airport finally opened a few years ago. The impressive, hilltop walled city of Morella is a fabulous spot for idle shopping and grazing on local delicacies (sheep’s milk cheese, lamb and paella). Elsewhere, the shoreline offers plenty of quiet coves to discover and claim as your own.

Sustainable travel tip: You can travel from London to Benicassim by train within a couple of days. Take the Eurostar from London to Paris (two hours, 15 minutes), followed by a TGV Duplex to Barcelona (6.5 hours), and stay overnight. Next morning, a EuroMed train whisks you to Valencia in just under three hours, and from here Spain’s national rail service, Renfe, runs several services to Benicassim (fast trains take just 45 minutes).

Where to stay: Hotel Ad Hoc , 28 rooms in a converted 19th-century town house, is a comfortable and well-appointed small hotel, one of surprisingly few in Valencia 's old town.

New Foundland, Canada

Temperature: 19°C high; 9°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 12 hours 10 minutes Time difference: GMT-3

While it doesn’t exactly get hot in Newfoundland, July is the beginning of the Canadian island’s balmiest season. And as the sort of place you want to get out and about — whether scouring woodland for gourmet specialties like lovage and spruce tips, or learning the local art of cod-jigging from a hardy fisherman — highs of 18C makes things infinitely more pleasant. The easternmost of Canada ’s provinces, on a limb in the Northern Atlantic, it’s a thrillingly rugged hinterland of puffins, sea cliffs and Viking legends; the sort of vast frontier a whale might breach right by your kayak, or where immense, glacial-blue icebergs bob nonchalantly past. A newly minted culinary rep means rich rewards after all that fresh air. In provincial capital St John’s, Raymond’s foraged menu (seabuckthorn, Acadian sturgeon) has been hailed the nation’s best. Or get yourself invited to a local beach 'boil-up', where sea urchin and mussels are plucked fresh from rock pools.

Sustainable travel tip: The architecturally masterful, boutique Fogo Island Inn was conceived as a social business, employing local people and celebrating their traditions (furniture designed with local artisans; community host-led tours). All profits are funnelled back into the community and renewable energy, rainwater catchment systems, recycling and composting are all in place. The restaurant focuses on local, organic, seasonal and foraged food.

Where to stay: Fogo Island Inn , a four-storey, X-shaped structure with a tip that sticks out on stilts. Inside and out it's white and minimalist, with floor-to-ceiling views of the restless sea.

Boston, United States

Temperature: 28°C high; 19°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 7 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT-5

There are few better places to be for the Fourth of July than Boston, the birthplace of the American Revolution. Not only does this richly historic, seafront state capital come alive with celebrations, but the hotels offer decent discounts to keep the party popping. Packed with museums and galleries, Boston was once hailed the Athens of America. And forward-thinking but down-to-earth Bostonians are equally proud of their food culture, from classics like clam chowder and lobster rolls, to the culinary revolution storming its rejuvenated Sea Port district. At Sportello, the latest from No.9 Park’s Barbara Lynch (one of Time ’s 100 most influential people of 2017). The seasonal Italian menu changes daily, cooking up anything from ramp tortellini to whole grilled dorade.

Sustainable travel tip: The independently and locally owned Seaport Hotel isn’t just conveniently located in Boston’s most happening district, but has an impressive green CV, too. Temperature and lighting systems automatically turn off when guests leave their rooms, while the restaurant turns used cooking oil into heating fuel for homes across New England, and converts its food waste into biogas. Even more conveniently, the hotel has its own subway station, so accessing public transport is a breeze (and a much better idea than braving Boston’s notorious traffic).

Where to stay: XV Beacon , a super-slick alternative to Boston's bigger hotels, with just 63 rooms tucked into a meticulously restored, 10-storey Beaux Arts building, this is one of the East Coast's most stylish boltholes.

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The six best places to travel in July 2023, from Sapa to Seychelles

Destinations that shine in summertime include namibia's salt pan and a remote vietnamese town.

Explore east Bali, the island's relatively tourist-free side, this July. Photo: Darren Lawrence / Unsplash

For many destinations around the world, July means peak holiday season as tourists get ready to make the most of school holidays. But it also means several destinations struggle with overtourism , pushing hotel prices up or making attractions too busy to enjoy. But there are plenty of places where you can avoid the throngs.

Here are six of the best places to take a holiday this month.

1. Calgary, Canada

Canada Day, which fell on July 1, kicked off a summer of celebrations across the North American destination and Calgary, in the Alberta province, is a good pick for a visit this month.

Each year, thousands of tourists flock to the city to catch the Calgary Stampede, which runs from July 7 to 16 this year. Dust off your cowboy boots and practise your best yahoo, then get set to enjoy the rodeo, music concerts, parades, fairground rides, party tents and nightly fireworks displays.

Away from the festival, there’s plenty to see and do in July, which is one of the best months in Canada’s sunniest city. Calgary is home to the longest urban pathway and cycle path in North America meaning its easy to hop on a bike or a scooter and go see the sights.

Pack a picnic and stop off in one of the city’s many green spaces, such as Confederation Park, for an al fresco lunch in the sunshine. If you want to relish in the city’s Rocky Mountain views, head 30 minutes out of town to Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park where more than 1,300 hectares of protected grasslands are home to deer, coyotes, elk, badgers and weasels.

2. East Bali, Indonesia

Made up of about 17,000 islands, Indonesia is an archipelago that attracts travellers year-round, but July is one of the best months to go as dry season arrives and warm, sunshine-filled days are expected. As one of the country’s most famous island destinations, Bali in July is a great idea, but only if you get out of the tourist hotspots and head to the east coast.

Separated from the island’s crowded regions via central highlands, this less-travelled side of the island boasts many destinations that bask in the summer sun while remaining off the beaten tourist path. Head to Bukit Asah with its amazing sea views, or visit Kastala for quintessential Balinese paddy fields minus the tourist throngs.

Diving conditions off the east coast of Bali are also particularly favourable in July, with marine lovers able to swim with sunfish, turtles and tropical fish.

3. Orkney, Scotland

While Scotland is more known for its unpredictable weather than its summer sunshine,July is one of the country’s warmer months. And in far-flung Orkney , the month brings endless hours of daylight with the sun rising around 4.30am and staying in the sky until well after 10pm.

The beaches in this northern archipelago are well worth a visit, with many giving off almost Caribbean vibes thanks to bright blue waters and pristine golden sands, but bring a jacket – even summer temperatures average about 14°C.

Explore history in a destination that’s rich with Norse heritage – visit The Heart of Neolithic Orkney on the mainland, a Unesco World Heritage Site, crawl inside ancient tombs and see Scotland’s only remaining round Viking church.

Known for its diverse culinary offerings, Orkeny also offers visitors the chance to indulge in sustainably caught salmon, crab and other seafood, plus locally produced cheese, oatcakes and sweet fudge. Island-hopping in Orkney is a great way to get around, and a tiny Loganair aircraft operates between Kirkwall and six of the region’s northern isles, including the world’s shortest flight – a quick 53-second hop from Westray to Papa Westray.

4. Sapa, Vietnam

Head north in Vietnam this month, to Sapa, a remote town in the Hoang Lien Son Mountain Range that is known for its rice terraces, mountain surrounds and diverse community. Unlike much of the rest of the country, Sapa’s elevation keeps it nice and cool during the summer months with temperatures averaging 24°C.

It’s also rice season in the hills, meaning the terraces that cover the mountain slopes will be filled with bright greenery. July is also the season for hiking, with walks to villages such as Cat Cat and Ta Phin or guided, multi-day treks to rice terraces and secret waterfalls, with nights spent staying with a local family in a mountaintop lodge or homestay.

Thac Bac's Silver Waterfall – a 30-minute drive north of Sapa – is at its most beautiful at this time of the year. The summit of the region's highest peak, Mount Fansipan, is easily reached via a cable car that whisks riders up to 3,143 metres, leaving tourists with only a 15-minute climb to reach the Roof of Indochina and take in the views.

5. The Seychelles

Popular year-round, the Seychelles is coolest and driest in July. Temperatures in this Indian Ocean holiday hotspot average a pleasant 24°C to 28°C this month, making it the perfect time for unwinding on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Head to Source D’Argent on La Digue island, recently voted the world’s second-best beach by suncare brand Banana Boat, or visit the island of Praslin, where Anse Lazio is perfectly framed by palm trees and granite rocks.

The country’s south-east trade winds also come alive in July, making it a great time for those planning on sailing and surfing, or hiking through the hills with a cooling breeze at their back. The Seychelles is blessed with an abundance of nature , and is home to giant tortoises, natural reserves and forests filled with giant coconuts of the sea. Cooler July temperatures make it a pleasant time to explore these wonders, and birdwatchers will also be rewarded as this month is nesting and feeding season for many of the island’s species.

Southern Africa’s Namibia glows in July when the days are warm with clear skies and a low chance of rain. Temperatures reach up to 21°C.

Famed for its towering red sand dunes and untouched sandy coastlines, the country is a wildlife haven. The lack of rainfall in July makes it a great time for nature lovers to visit to see elephants, zebras, giraffes and more gather around water holes in Etosha National Park, one of the largest conservation areas in Africa.

July is also the very beginning of safari season, meaning you’ll probably be able to get in and enjoy the park before the hordes of tourists arrive.

One of Namibia’s most famous landmarks is its salt and clay pan Sossusvlei. Surrounded by red sand dunes that tower up to 300 metres, this area is in the southern part of the Namib desert offers untouched vistas unlike anywhere else. The bone dry desert in July makes it one of the most dramatic times of the year to visit.

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The 11 best and unique places to travel in july, according to experts.

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Sun’s out, school’s out — it’s time to head out on vacation and July could not be a more perfect time.

Even though the weather is most likely warm wherever you call home, July can be the perfect month to travel both domestically and internationally.

When the kids are out of school you have far more flexibility, plus, you can use things like the long Fourth of July weekend to your advantage for an extra day of vacation time from work — and you only have another six months to use up all your PTO, so pack your bags!

Since we want you to get away but also not send you into a summer tourist trap, we wanted to consult some travel experts from top travel companies and hotel chains to ask the hard hitting question: where should we travel to in July?

To answer that, plus offer bookable flights and hotels, read on for answers from our experts, including Brian Povinelli, the senior vice president, brand, loyalty and portfolio marketing at Marriott International , as well as Brian Sparacino, president, and chief executive officer of  Rebel Hotel Company . Let the Brian’s take it away, before you getaway this July 2023.

The most popular July travel destinations 2023

Under-the-radar july travel destinations 2023, when to book july travel and other tips for summer vacations.

Deciding where to travel can be the hardest part, once you have dates and PTO approved, of course. Leave the destinations up to our experts for 2023 and you won’t be disappointed. We asked both Povinelli from Marriott and Sparacino from Rebel where they see popular trends in 2023, and then did the dirty work of finding top-rated hotels and lodging so you don’t have to.

Povinelli’s picks:

“Resort-side, small-town locales are becoming extremely appealing for travelers this summer,” said Povinelli. “They are quaint, seaside (or lakeside or bayside), slower-paced, and let travelers step into the simplicities of life. Sausalito, Montauk, Maui, Nantucket, Tahoe, and Chesapeake are just a few places that bring travelers the nostalgia they are craving.”

Sausalito, California : This northern town is right across from San Francisco, making it both a city vacation and a more laid back one on the water. We recommend staying at Cavallo Point , a 4.5-star property right in Sausalito with ocean views and a skip away from the Golden Gate Bridge.

Montauk, New York : The Hamptons are calling our name. For a break from city life, head to the edge of the Hamptons where you’ll find Montauk, a coastal paradise. We love   Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa for its views and private beach, or you can opt for a rental home and get a private condo to yourself.

Maui, Hawaii: Who doesn’t like Hawaii? For a luxurious stay, the Wailea Beach Resort is a top tier pick, perfect for those that like to stay near the beach with all the best amenities on site. You could also check out this discounted resort, with 20% off your stay at the Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows.

Nantucket, Massachusetts : Is there an elephant in the room? Not quite, but we do love the White Elephant Hotel as a top-rated pick for a quaint stay with water views.

Sparacino’s picks:

“Regarding international travel, the “sugar high” for destinations not subject to COVID mandates began to burn off in 2022,” said Sparacino. “Attention has shifted from accessible Southeast United States to international locations with penned up demand, such as London, Paris, and Italy.  Surge in demand is reflective of the soaring airline prices and hotel rates.”

London, United Kingdom: You really can’t go wrong in London. For a pet-friendly, historic hotel, check out the St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel London , which is also located in King’s Cross for easy access to top sites.

Paris, France: If you’re feeling like Emily in Paris, why not go all the way. The Hôtel de Crillon is a great starting point, as it is seconds from the Tuileries Garden, Champs-Elysées and the Louvre Museum.

Italy: We know this is an entire country, but each city in Italy is amazing in itself, so we think you should see it all. Check out travel packages from Great Value Vacations that include multiple destinations like Rome, Florence and Venice, with hotels and transport included.

If you want to travel somewhere less crowded or have a more unique story to tell your coworkers when you return, we also wanted to know some forecasts for under-the-radar or up-and-coming destinations for 2023.

“We are seeing travelers flock to the Mediterranean this summer, but in a different way,” Povinelli said. “This time around, travelers are exploring road trips to experience beachside vistas, charming Italian towns, and the French countryside. Beyond the typical — France, Italy, Spain— travelers are planning itineraries that take them through some lesser-explored southern European destinations such as Portugal, Turkey, and Croatia.”

Portugal : Portugal is a stunning destination for food, culture and the sea. You can go with Lisbon and stay at the Internacional Design Hotel, which boasts a lilac facade and historic charm right in the city center. Or, opt for Oporto, or Porto in English, and stay at the riverside Torel Avantgarde , with a pool, views of the Douro and free breakfast.

Turkey : We hope you’re hungry for travel. Turkey is great for adventurous travelers, first stopping in the capital city of Istanbul at the JW Marriott Istanbul Bosphorus and then perhaps venturing to Cappadocia to stay at the Mithra Cave Hotel with a perfect view of the iconic hot air balloons.

Croatia : For another off the beaten path adventure, our expert chose Croatia as a great trip. Head to the Dalmatian Coast and stay at the Le Meridien Lav in the city of Split for beaches and a view of the surrounding islands.

Sparacino’s pick:

“A very under-the-radar personal favorite domestic location is Cape May, New Jersey. A Victorian beach town and one of the best kept secrets since 1700’s. It has everything – wide, white sand beaches, independently owned shops, restaurateurs, and great history,” said Sparacino.

Cape May, New Jersey: For a domestic getaway that won’t be overrun by tourists but it just as stunning, check out Cape May. The town is just over 2.5 hours from New York City and you can either opt for a private condo rental for you and your crew, or a beachside hotel with a stay at the Grand Hotel Cape May.

Both of the Brian’s are in agreement when they say to book early!

“I think we’ve all heard about how travelers are planning more and more in advance – possibly a response to the travel rush of summer 2022. Because of this, we are seeing travelers booking up to a year prior, diving into 2024 travel even before embarking on their summer 2023 plans,” said Povinelli.

However, he also noted that if you book now, there are still some great deals to be found, especially if you are monitoring travel sites for deals, or perhaps opt for a local trip or choose somewhere during it’s shoulder season where prices will be lower and less tourists frequent come July.

Check out  New York Post Shopping  for more content.

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The Best Places to Travel in July to Soak Up Summer Vibes

It's peak summer travel season!

We rounded up advice from family travel experts and threw in some picks of our own based on research for Good Housekeeping 's Family Travel Awards . Since it's ultra-pricey to fly to Europe on just a couple of weeks' notice, we mostly stuck to vacation spots across the U.S. If you want to go big, zero in on our Hawaii resort or Alaskan cruise suggestions. Otherwise, lean into our off-the-beaten-path recommendations, like a fun town outside of Atlanta that gives you easy access to both city attractions and nature activities.

Whether you're eager to take a cruise or a road trip, watch the waves or the animals or listen to live music or nature sounds, we've found a place for you. We even threw in a couple of choices for a kid-free getaway in case yours are a sleepaway camp or a grandparent's house.

Sandy Springs, Georgia

About 20 minutes north of Atlanta, Sandy Springs boasts 22 miles of riverfront along the banks of the Chattahoochee River. It's a perfect home base for a family vacation that blends city attractions and nature activities.

Some days, you can take the Metro to Atlanta to visit the Georgia Aquarium and Zoo Atlanta. You can even book a tour to see where famous movies, like The A venge rs, were filmed. For the rest of your trip, kick back kayaking, hiking and exploring some of Sandy Springs' 20 parks. Young kids will especially love the funky playground at Abernathy Greenway Playable Art Park.

Fourth of July weekend is a fantastic time to visit Sandy Springs thanks to a massive fireworks celebration that includes a concert and food trucks. Stay at the Hilton Atlanta Perimeter Suites , which has family-friendly perks like free breakfast, an in-room fridge and microwave, an outdoor pool and a free shuttle to the Metro station.

Park City, Utah

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For one of the most scenic fireworks displays in the country, take your crew to Forum Fest at Canyons Village in Park City, Utah. The four-day shindig, which kicks off on June 30, includes live music, kids' and family activities, public art displays and nightly drone and fireworks shows.

While you're in town, you can try one of the many epic nature activities, including a yoga class in a crater. Thrills for kids include an amazing alpine coaster, and teens 16 and up can even bobsled on an Olympic track. Standout places to stay include Waldorf Astoria Park City and Pendry Park City .

Excelsior Springs, Missouri

Attention Midwesterners who want a wellness getaway within driving distance: A couple of days at The Elms Hotel & Spa near Kansas City will refresh your body and mind. Recently renovated, the massive spa at the historic property is well known for The Grotto, its relaxing take on a Roman bath. Visit on July 22 for The Under The Stars Wellness Retreat. The special event includes Grotto access, a 50-minute massage, a gentle flow yoga session and a sound bath in the zen garden ending with a lantern release and bonfire. Pure bliss!

Maui, Hawaii

Maui fulfills bucket-list fantasies all year long, but July is a particularly good month to bring the kids. Since families comprise a large percentage of guests at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa in July, they'll be plenty of buddies for your little ones to play with at the sandy-bottom kids' pool and in the supervised kids' club.

" Years later, my daughter still fondly remembers playing with children from Japan that she met at the resort," says one GH staffer. Winner of a 2023 Good Housekeeping Family Travel Award, the oceanfront resort also wows travelers of all ages with rooftop stargazing programs, a nightly luau and recently renovated rooms.

Savannah, Georgia

The top hotel in the U.S. according to a recent TripAdvisor report, Perry Lane Hotel is as charming (and reliable) as Savannah itself . A rooftop deck with a pool and activities, vintage arcade games plus a replenishing cookie jar in the lobby appeal to guests of all ages. Part of the Marriott Luxury collection, the hotel accepts (and awards) Marriott Bonvoy points. Through August 31, you can score special rates with the "Summering in Savannah" package.

Burlington, Vermont

Thanks to Amtrak's Ethan Allen Express service from NYC to downtown Burlington, city dwellers can place the vibrant town on the top of the list for a car-free long weekend getaway. The scenic ride (an attraction in itself for train buffs of all ages) whisks passengers through the Hudson Valley, Green Mountains and finally, to the city on the shores of Lake Champlain.

Burlington's culinary scene exceeds expectations (Get to Church Street Marketplace!) and biking is a common way to get around for the whole family. Stay downtown at Hotel Vermont , which has plush rooms and suites, a fun "bedtime menu" for kids and adults and windows that open so you can savor the breeze off the lake.

Hot Springs, Virginia

The Omni Homestead Resort is leveling up its family programming for the Fourth of July weekend. The historic property, which caters to multi-gen groups, created a star-spangled lineup that includes duck races; social hours; Red, White and Blue Mixology and, of course, fireworks. That's in addition to the usual activities like the water park for kids and the relaxing thermal pools for grown-ups. All of the guest rooms have been recently renovated — and the color palette is dreamy.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

The Outer Banks is the "it" destination for beach vacation home rentals, according to the rental platform Vacasa . Fueled by the Netflix hit Outer Banks , searches on Vacasa for the destination have more than doubled in the last year. Vacasa's Jamie McClellan, who has kids ages 2 and 7, recommends staying in the central part of the region, such as Nags Head or Kitty Hawk, for great beaches with plenty of shops and restaurants.

Then McClellan suggests taking half-day trips to explore other parts of the Outer Banks. "We like the uncrowded beaches on Hatteras Island, which is part of the National Wildlife Refuge," says McClellan. And don't worry about seeing a lot of film crews around — Outer Banks is actually shot in Charleston, South Carolina.

If you can't stand the summer heat, may we suggest booking an Alaskan cruise? Cruising weather is typically best in July with the lowest chance of rain and high temps in the 60s. Several cruise lines sail to Alaska, but if you have both grandparents and young kids in your group, Princess Cruise Lines is a fantastic pick.

Supervised kids programs for ages 3 and up make at-sea days extra fun for little ones. Teens have their own hangout space while adults might want to spend some time at the spa or Vegas-style casino. Sailings start in Seattle or San Francisco — both tend to have cooler summertime weather if you want to tack on a few days of site-seeing before or after cruising.

Lexington, Kentucky

Known for its championship thoroughbred horse farms, bourbon distilleries and delicious eats, the “Horse Capital of the World” is a fab road trip destination for friends' or couples' getaways. Once you get there, you can leave your car parked.

Town Branch Commons, the recently completed 5.5-mile greenway trail, connects the bustling downtown to the historic Bourbon Distillery District. Be one of the first guests to stay at The Manchester Hotel , a high-end boutique property that's opening in June . It's on the former grounds of Central Kentucky’s first registered bourbon distillery and boasts 125 beautiful guest rooms.

Jacksonville, Florida

You might think of Miami and Orlando as the Florida hot spots, but Jacksonville is an up-and-comer, according to new data from Skyscanner , a search engine and travel agency. Located in the Northeast part of the state, the city boasts 22 miles of beaches, cultural attractions and has many affordable places to stay. Case in point: The budget-friendly Hampton Inn Oceanfront Jacksonville Beach has a stretch of sand just for resort guests plus a pool with waterfall features.

Oranjestad, Aruba

While summer and early fall mark hurricane season in the Caribbean (boo!), Aruba is spared from most direct hits because it's located south of the prime storm tracks. Booking the beachfront sister resorts Divi & Tamarijn Aruba is about as safe as it gets in the Caribbean this time of year. Set on a mile-long white sand beach, the pair of all-inclusives shares a supervised program for kids ages 4 to 12. Divi offers multi-bedroom suites to accommodate larger families.

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21 Best Places to Travel to in July

06/02/2023 by Nicole Edwards 1 Comment

You’re not alone if you are looking for a spectacular place to visit in July. Around the world, July is a popular month for visiting a new country because you’ll have some of the best weather for beach days or ski days. This means you will probably meet some other solo travelers as you navigate new lands! To help you get started, we’ve put together a list of the 21 best places to travel to in July: 

Table of Contents

Southeast Asia

1. phong nha, vietnam.

Phong Nha, which means “wind and teeth” is home to the world’s largest cave. Not surprisingly, the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is also one of the best caving destinations you’ll find. You can take a tour through the caves, or if you’re feeling adventurous, go on a motorbike. Just be prepared to get muddy as you explore (bring a swimsuit or old clothes or check out our Vietnam packing list for more tips). You’ll save some money if you don’t go on a tour, but you can also get ahead with cheaper accommodations like hostels.

You’ll definitely want to visit the caves in Vietnam during the dry season, which runs from March to August. In July you’ll have temperatures in the 80s-90s. Before you go, here’s some tips on how to make the most of your trip and stay safe !

2. Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

Are you looking for strawberries to pick? Cameron Highlands has you covered with these plump sweet berries that you can even turn into strawberry juice. The rolling hills also make the highlands suitable for tea plantations, or if you like to explore, there’s plenty of hiking and trekking to do. The countryside is so tremendously green you’ll want to bring your camera to get some gorgeous shots.

Cameron Highlands are pretty touristy, but with July being the tail end of the dry season, you can expect fewer crowds. Temperatures are refreshing and in the 70s. Travel to Malaysia is very affordable; here are some hostels to check out.

3. Gili Islands, Indonesia

You’ve got Gili T, Gili Meno and Gili Air , but what’s the difference and where should you go? Gili T is more of a party island as it’s more established than the other two. Gili Meno is the complete opposite of Gili T; you can chill and nobody will bother you. And then Gili Air is right smack in the middle: some chill, some party. If you can’t decide, just hop on a ferry and ride for a few minutes to check out another of the Gili’s. While you’re here, you’ll want to swim, snorkel, relax on a beach, or meet fellow travelers at a bar or restaurant.

July is part of the dry season in the Gili’s which makes underwater visibility top notch. Temperatures are in the 80s and since most people will be in Bali, you’ll be able to enjoy some of the most beautiful islands in Indonesia without the tourists.

North America

4. road trip through canada.

Canada has so much to see that you might as well just take a road trip to national parks, cities, coasts and islands. Here are some places in Canada we recommend you put on your road trip itinerary. Canada is one of the safest places in the world, making it less daunting of a country to explore if you’re a first-time solo traveler. It’s also a budget-friendly country and a wonderful place to get an extra dose of nature. That being said, you can also find some wonderful summer festivals in cities like Quebec and Toronto.

July temperatures are in the 70s, and because it’s so pleasant, more people will be visiting. But if you go on a road trip, you can take your pick between hiking and camping , or whale and polar bear watching , or even perusing the murals in Churchill .

5. The Great Blue Hole, Belize

If you’re looking for one of the best dive sites in the world, head to the Great Blue Hole in Belize. You won’t be disappointed by the depths, the warm and clear water, and the colorful reef fish. The Blue Hole was formed during the last glacial period when water levels rose and flooded the cave system. Here are some other reefs and caves you can tour via kayak or snorkeling excursion .

April to June is considered prime time to visit, however you can snorkel all year-round. If you want to avoid some of the crowds, check it out in July where you might manage a sighting of a whale shark during their migration.

6. The Florida Keys, USA

The United States has a tropical island chain called the Florida Keys. Each Key is completely unique: Key Largo has beautiful man-made beaches and nature parks, Islamorada has gorgeous reefs and historic islands, Marathon is known for its fishing and 7-mile bridge, Big Pine has the cutest little deer you’ll find in North America, and then Key West is excursion head-quarters with sunset cruises, food and cultural tours , and bars galore. If you’re looking for a little bit of Caribbean paradise, you’ll find it here.

If you can stand a little bit of heat and humidity, then consider checking out the Keys in July. Summer is considered Hurricane Season and most people are visiting places up north, but, hurricanes statistically hit in August-September and many people still enjoy these months for the smaller crowds, better deals and warmer waters. If you go over Independence Day, you’ll also catch spectacular 4th of July fireworks.

7. National Parks in California, USA

California is home to the biggest trees in the world at the Sequoia National Park , the tallest trees in the world at Redwood National Park, and also North America’s tallest waterfall at Yosemite National Park. You’ll find beautiful lakes at Kings Canyon National Park, spectacular trails at Lassen Volcanic National Park , and if you love the sea, go to the Channel Islands National Park. Find a complete list of national parks here .

Most of California’s national parks are great for visiting in July, however avoid Joshua Tree, Pinnacles, and Death Valley because the deserts can get very hot, over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Other than that, you’ll have a hard time getting bored with all the diversity that California has to offer.

8. Lavertezzo, Switzerland

One of the best summer activities you could find would be the river that runs through Lavertezzo . The water is probably some of the clearest and cleanest on earth, and you couldn’t ask for better rocks to tan on. Plus, there’s a beautiful double-arch bridge that makes for a great photo op, or a place to leap into the water. Bring a picnic lunch because the nearby towns are very small and don’t have a lot of dining choices.

Even in July, which is typically the warmest month of the year in Switzerland , the river is cold and the air will be in the 60s. But this doesn’t deter people from getting out and enjoying the water. Just bring some warm clothes for after the plunge, and don’t forget your sunscreen!

9. The Dolomites in South Tyrol, Italy

South Tyrol is the place to go for beautiful and delicious food , grapevines growing on rolling hills, rock climbing, hiking and camping , and 800 castles. But the real attraction here are the Dolomites, a rock formation and UNESCO site. The Via Ferrata routes are fixed with ladders and cables and there are plenty to try at various difficulty levels. The views at the top are breathtaking and well worth the climb. Before you go, check out some of these tips , like picking a climbing guide.

Visiting Italy’s Dolomites in July means gorgeous landscapes and mild temperatures (in the 60s, but temps drop the further you climb). You’ll see wildflowers in bloom and lush green meadows. More people start to come out in late July, so get there early if you want a quieter experience. 

10. The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

If you enjoy road trips with scenic views, hop on the Wild Atlantic Way , which is the longest coastal drive in the world. It wraps around the island, starting in Galway and ending in Donegal before continuing in Northern Ireland. You’ll stumble across wonderful Irish cuisine, quaint little towns, bogs and cliffs, and in Northern Ireland , some Game of Thrones filming locations. While you’re on the west coast near Galway, check out some of these most beautiful beaches, cliffs, and greenways.

Ireland in July is fantastic. The weather is brisk (low 60s) and dry, the skies are sunny, and the days are long. July is peak season, but if you are sticking to the self-guided road trip, you’ll avoid most of the crowds, which tend to flock to the cities. You’ll be able to balance the serenity of the countryside’s gorgeous views and pleasant weather with the popularity of restaurants and pubs that dot the way.

11. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda

If you love wildlife, a gorilla trekking experience should be at the top of your list. While you can see gorillas behind bars in zoos, you’ll experience an entirely different level of awe when you see them in the wild, going about their daily activities. It’s very safe as you’ll be with guides who are prepared and equipped to maintain control. And Uganda is a beautiful country where you can also hike and listen to the sounds of the jungle from a hammock.

In terms of weather, July is one of the best months to visit Uganda. It’s the dry season and temperatures are in the 70s. But, lots of people will be looking to go on a gorilla trek because it’s also a great time for viewing wildlife. You’ll want to get your gorilla trekking permit months in advance.

12. Safari in Tanzania

Did Lion King make you dream about seeing zebras, elephants, lions, hippos, and giraffes? If so, you can make your dream a reality at the Safari in Tanzania . You’ll want to go in a safari vehicle with a pop top because it’s ideal for seeing wildlife, and you’ll want a guide because the guides know where to spot the wildlife. It can get pretty expensive, so here’s how to book an affordable trip . While you’re there, you can visit the Black Rhinos at the Ngorongoro Crater and the flamingos at Lake Manyara National Park.

Not only is the weather pleasant in July (it’s the dry season and temperatures are in the 70s), but you’ll catch the Great Migration. This means your chances of seeing wildlife are practically guaranteed. But, this is also peak season, so prices may be a bit higher and tours will fill up fast.

13. Road Trip in South Africa

You don’t have to decide on a specific place in South Africa unless you want to, because you can check out most of South Africa on a road trip. Some places on the itinerary include Johannesburg with its rich history, Blyde River Canyon for fantastic views, Kruger National Park for the wildlife, Golden Gate Highlands for the sunsets, the world heritage site at Drakensberg Mountains, the Wild Coast, and more. Here’s an itinerary and a packing list so you can better plan your trip.

July is super sunny for about twelve hours each day. If you are planning on doing the road trip you’ll want to pack for warmer weather (70s) during the day and cold weather at night (40s). If you are going to Cape Town , bring an umbrella just in case. July is a popular month to visit South Africa, but on a road trip, you’ll be able to avoid most of the crowds and do your own thing.

14. Tofo, Mozambique

With some of the world’s best diving, beautiful waters, sandy beaches, thriving mangroves, great surfing, colorful sunsets, friendly locals and amazing wildlife, what more could you ask for than what’s in Tofo, Mozambique ? There are several diving schools here, and it’s a world-class diving spot because of the whale sharks and manta rays. Just be prepared for the electricity to cut out occasionally, and getting there is a little difficult. While in Tofo, you can also hire a captain and go sailing, often organized through your hostel. The boats are very simple, but you won’t regret getting out on the water.

It’s winter in Tofo in July, but temperatures are still in the 70s. Some say it’s a little breezy, but this makes it perfect for a sail. Because it’s the dry season, you can expect sunny days and superb underwater visibility and wildlife viewing opportunities. Pack your bags !

South America

15. the galapagos.

If you’ve got a traveling bucket list, it’s likely the Galapagos is on it. Who doesn’t want to see the uniqueness and abundance on these islands? But for many, the Galapagos can seem unattainable because they are so protected. Do not fret! It’s easy to visit as a solo traveler , even on a budget . While you’re here, you’ll want to visit the biggest island called Isla Isabella where you’ll find some of the best snorkeling. You can also bike the Wall of Tears, take surfing lessons and hike up a volcano. If you love sea lions though, you’ll want to go to San Cristobal .

Here’s a breakdown on when’s the best time to visit the Galapagos , but rest assured that July is prime time. There’s minimal rainfall, land and sea temps are in the 70s, and lots of birds. Humpback whales will be migrating, as will the dolphins. Sea lions will be coming around for the start of breeding season, and turtles will be laying their eggs. With so much action though, don’t be surprised if other travelers are there to enjoy the Galapagos.

16. The Amazon in Peru

Peru has a lot to offer, like Machu Picchu , Rainbow Mountain , Humantay Lake, hiking in Santa Cruz, national parks, towns, sandboarding , and agricultural centers and salt mines . But, since over half of the country is covered by the Amazon Rain Forest , it only makes sense to check it out while you’re here. Peru’s Amazon has the largest number of bird species and the third-largest number of mammalian species in the world. It’s also one of the most biologically diverse regions on the planet.

July is considered the dry season, which makes it a pleasant time to explore the jungle. Since water will be somewhat scarce, wildlife will be out and about looking for water sources. Days are warm and sunny and the nights are brisk and a tad bit chilly. But even if you don’t want to visit the Amazon, the rest of Peru is gorgeous during July, too.

If you want a Caribbean adventure chock full of things to do, beautiful beaches, time to kick back and relax, and that’s great for solo female travelers , look no further than Aruba . You’ll find sandy beaches , secluded beaches, beaches great for snorkeling, beaches with flamingos , and beaches that take you on a little adventure. There’s lots to do like the Arikok National Park, horseback riding, surfing, jeep adventures, natural rock formations to explore, fine dining, spas, and even skydiving. Here’s an adventurous 5-day itinerary to get you started.

Aruba is outside of the hurricane belt so you don’t have to worry about the storms in July. Prices are so much lower during the summer months, but you won’t see temperatures higher than 90 degrees because the trade winds keep the heat down. There’s hardly any rain during the summer. It is the off-season, but July is still a popular month to visit Aruba so don’t be surprised if you meet another solo traveler!

18. Kyrgyzstan

Here you’ll find lively bazaars, nomads on horseback, and beautiful views. And by beautiful views, think: Iceland, the Alps and Patagonia merged together. Piercing blue lakes and dramatic green and rocky landscapes make this a picturesque country for mountain-lovers to explore. Basically, Kyrgyzstan is the Patagonia of Central Asia and you can find some really spectacular hikes in the Tian Shan mountains . If this is your first time, here are some things to know before you go . While you’re visiting, you should definitely stay with the families in yurts where you’ll experience some of the best hospitality and food you could imagine.

It’s hot and dry in July with highs in the mid-80s. July is actually the warmest month, so pack lightly, but it’s also one of the funnest months to go because of the bazaars, which are an integral part of the culture.

19. Tokyo, Japan

Japan should be on anybody’s list of places to travel as there is no other country or culture in the world quite like it. Everything from the attire (kimonos), to the fine dining experience , to the advanced technological environment you’ll discover even in bathrooms, it’s a place to visit to awaken the senses. It’s also a great place for a solo female traveler . While you’re in Tokyo, here are some things you must do including themed cafes, parks, sumo wrestling, markets, the theater, and museums. In July, there are lots of festivals happening like the Tanabata Matsuri celebrations and the Sumidagawa River Fireworks Festival.

Tokyo in July is hot and humid, possibly in the 90s, and there could be some rainy days. If you can’t take a little bit of this summer weather, consider going to Japan in the winter . But the reason July is a good month to visit Tokyo is because of fewer tourists. The amount of in-door amount of in-door activities to do will help with the heat, and it’s best if the crowds are smaller.

20. Uluru and Kata Tjuta National Park, Australia

If you’re going to go to Australia, you should pay a visit to Uluru and Kata Tjuta National Park. This place not only involves a fun outdoor adventure and incredible photo op, but it’s pretty much a rite of passage for any Australian. The park is a UNESCO heritage site and holds massive historical, cultural, spiritual and geological significance because of the ancient rock formations. There are also caves with rock art that date way back to where you’ll feel like you’ve just opened a time capsule. Here’s everything you need to know , including how to get there and find a guide.

July is part of Australia’s winter, but the Park does see temperatures in the 70s during the day (at night, it’ll be in the 40s). Because the weather is a bit gentler during this time of year, which makes it safer to be in the desert, there will be more tourists.

21. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

If you’re looking for overwater bungalows, jungles, and to swim with humpback whales, head to Bora Bora. However, keep in mind it’s not the most affordable destination because the archipelago of French Polynesia is a beautiful place to visit with lots of activities (we break a budget down here ). For starters, you can swim with the whales, explore the waters on a jetski and snorkel with sharks. Matira Beach is a wonderful place to kick back and relax with crystal clear water and beautiful sand, plus cafes and restaurants line the shore so you can recharge without having to give up your spot on the beach.

July is the dry season but also part of the high season. This is because temperatures are milder and you’ll have some of the best weather you could possibly ask for . If you can afford an overwater bungalow and want to get the most out of such a fabulous location, you’re going to want the best weather you can get!

There are so many beautiful places to see in the world and it can be overwhelming to pick a place. But, you have to start somewhere! Where do you think you’d go?

About Nicole Edwards

Nicole is a single-handed sailor sailing the world and sharing her journey on her YouTube Channel, Sailing Artha. She prefers the type of travel that gets her into nature, and she actively seeks out farm and trash pick-up volunteering opportunities.

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limetree ganesh says

06/08/2023 at 5:48 am

it’s so nice to see you’re traveling to different new places and exploring new places my dream is to travel like you new place and explore the world.

Best Countries To Visit In July

More than half the world shares the Northern Hemisphere of the globe. And hence by default, July can be considered a summer month, even though it marks winter in the Southern Hemisphere. With continents like Europe , North America, Asia seeing spring transform into summer and the mercury levels climb up, July becomes ideal for travelling. Places like Netherlands , Spain , Switzerland , Indonesia, Alaska , Canada and the USA are brilliant at this time, with pleasant temperatures, pliable waterbodies and mostly dry spells. While countries in Africa, viz a viz South Africa , Kenya and Tanzania, have some of the best wildlife sightings and safari experiences. Read on to find out more about the best countries to visit in July.

A South-East Asian jewel of islands, volcanoes and scenic mountain beaches, Indonesia has become a great backpackers’ paradise as well as a hotspot for budget international travellers. With warm beaches and jungles that are adorned by many temples, Indonesia sees a very high tourist influx through its dry season, especially in the month of July, when the average temperature is between 22-27°C. Water-sports, hikes, beach relaxations and spas are some of the top picks for this month.

Things to Do:

Indonesia has a host of islands, 17,000 to be precise. Bali makes for the hottest spot for holiday in Indonesia with its gorgeous beaches, cheap road-side shopping, restaurants and pubs. The month of July here is famous for the coveted Bali Arts Festival and Kite Festival. Water sports are abound as rains are negligible and the warmth prompts you to find a nice cold drink and unwind by the beach. Other tourist places in this country include Kakaban Island where you can swim with jellyfishes, Borobudur - the largest Buddhist Temple in the world, Jakarta for puppetry and musical shows as well as Komodo (sightings of orangutans, elephants and tigers). Also visit Prambanan, which is a holy Hindu place that holds 244 crumbling temples. The Ramayana Ballet performed in the temple complex is a great show. Check out Bada Valley, Lore Lindu National Park and Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfalls too.

How to Reach: 

Indonesia has one major international airport, located in south Kuta - Ngurah Rai International Airport (also known as Denpasar International Airport). Regular flights from major international destinations come here, including those from India . You can hire taxis or cars from outside the airport. Cruises are also available from Singapore , Java and Sumatra to Bali.

Netherlands

The country of bread-butter and chocolate sprinklers; the people that eat chocolate spread in all their meals and a landscape adorned with canals and windmills, Netherlands makes for a beautiful holiday destination. Being a European country that is perpetually landlocked, Netherlands sees freezing winters and the cities only become enjoyable when summer arrives. Hence July, the peak of summer here, is the best time to visit. With temperature range of 13-22°C, this is the peak month to visit along with August.

When in Netherlands in July, visit ancient cities like Rotterdam and Hague. When in the land if Dutch, do as the Dutch do; hire a bicycle and peddle down the countryside from place to place. Amsterdam is the most famous and touristy place in Netherlands, home to museums, amusement parks, ancient sites and cafes. See the boats ship through narrow canals, houses on water and the famous museums of Anne Frank (yes, the same from World War II), Van Gogh and artwork of the great painter Rembrandt. Also look forward to a stroll through the Garden of Europe , suffused with brightly coloured tulips. Zaanse Schans is another tourist spot in a small traditional Dutch village. It is an open air museum.

With great connectivity all over Europe and the world in general, Amsterdam has regular flights from India . Cities like Chennai , Mumbai , Bangalore, Hyderabad , Delhi etc ply regular flights with operators like Emirates, British Airways and Etihad to Netherlands. When in the country, the best way to commute internally is by using bicycles. It is the most local way. However, cars or scooters are also available on hire depending on the area.

When we say Alaska , the image that automatically comes to mind is that of dark, dank, icy places, even in the middle of the day. But that is definitely not the case, especially in summer. In fact, it is rather the reverse; with daylight lasting almost all day and night. Alaska is a state of the United States of America and located north of Canada, very close to the North Pole. This means that its sees the phenomena of midnight sun in June-July. With temperatures hovering between 10-15°C and upto 18 hour long days, Alaska will be a real delight to explore in July.

Summer solstice has passed in June, which means the longest day is gone. But the midnight sun is still very much in the sky. And cities across Alaska still celebrate it. Since the daylight also pervades at night, you get more hours to be out and exploring. Tour through the forests, mountains, hills and glaciers. Denali National Park and Glacier Bay National Park are great outdoorsy spots to enjoy the local flora and fauna as well as hike and walk. Mt. McKinley is for those who wish to trek. You must also visit the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum and Hubbard Glacier situated in Fairbanks. Adventurers, you can go about indulging in mountain biking and kayaking too. Whale-watching is a speciality at this time of the year in Juneau. Northern Lights are sadly not a part of the July tour as they are only sighted in the thick of winter.

The best way to reach Alaska is by flight, Direct flights are not available from India to Alaska, hence you should fly to Canada or the States and take a connecting one to Alaska. Delhi and Mumbai however do operate connecting flights to Alaska. Cruise liners are also exceptionally beautiful and Canada’s British Columbia and Vancouver operate cruises to South-central Alaska, Anchorage and South-east Alaska.

A wild, wild country in the south of the African continent, Tanzania is home to grasslands that are inhabited by giraffes, elephants, zebras and more. There are also some great sandy beaches of Zanzibar and the scenic island of Pemba, giving a nice contrast to dry grasslands. July is one of the driest months here, with a temperature range of 20-30°C. Sunny days and no rainfall make it ideal. The great wildebeest migration can be seen in Tanzania at this time as they cross the border to Kenya.

July is the peak of dry season here, with skies blue and clear, sunshine high and welcoming and beaches that have glittering sand. Zanzibar and Pemba islands are great for beach expeditions while for a cultural tour, you must explore Stone Town (home to a melting pot of Indian, Moorish, Arab, Persian and European cultures). Mt. Kilimanjaro should also be on your list, as should be the many grasslands of Tanzania. Head to the Serengeti National Park to see the great wildebeest migration into the borders of this country. Check out Ngorongoro Crater for black rhinocero safaris and Mt. Meru for retellings of stories and fables. Other animals to sight in safaris here are zebras, chimpanzees, gazelles, elephants and wild cats. If you are in the mood fo markets and gardens then those are also abound in nearby towns and cities.

Tanzania’s Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro airports make for major international airports here. They each receive connecting flights from Indian cities like Mumbai and Delhi . Airlines on these routes are Qatar, Kenya Airlines, Etihad, Turkish Airlines, Jet Airways etc. You can also take a train from neighbouring African countries like Rwanda, Zambia or Kenya. While in Tanzania, you have the option of trains, buses, flights and hired cars for getting around.

The land of sangrias and footballers, Spain is a beautiful European destination for the summers. Hosting many a lively bars, alfresco cafes, open-top restaurants and shopping arcades, Spain comes alive in the months from June to September. July being the peak of summer sees a good warm temperature range of 16-25°C and long, sunshine-filled days. Tapas serve churros, guests drink cold Gazpacho and beaches of Canaries and Ibiza abound with tourists. Such is the delight of a Spanish holiday.

Things to Do: 

Ibiza and Canaries are famous for their beaches, bringing to life the sunny warm strolls and water sports here. Barcelona is an ancient city that makes for great sightseeing as well as idle strolling. Its hustle and bustle never cease, imparting a new happy noise to your holiday. Madrid ’s party scene is explosive and nights are the best. Head to Granada for a lesson in Spanish history while you will get to drink sangrias by the pint and stuff yourself with Spanish delicacies at local cafes. Some amazing sights to behold are Sagrada Familia Church, Park Guell, La Rambla Barcelona and the famous Gothic Quarter street for shopping, cafes and socialising. Explore the city of Cordoba for its dance and guitar festivals in July and check out the town of Seville for its bull-racing festivals. Other fun activities here include a ride on the International Zip Line, drinking in Ice Bar, touring Caminito del Rey and seeing the Holy Grail at Valencia Cathedral.

Spain also houses Europe ’s only desert - the Almeria.

How to Reach:

Spain’s main international airports are Barcelona International Airport, Madrid International Airport and Malaga International Airport. 12-hour direct as well as connecting flights operate from Mumbai and Delhi to these Spanish destinations. Trains also run from neighbouring European cities like France and Italy to Spain. Or you can drive in from Andorra , Portugal or France.

Switzerland

Swiss chocolates are renowned, as are Swiss watches and banks. But Switzerland is also home to virgin green hills and frosted white mountain ranges, crystal clear lakes and spotted white cows grazing in the distance with bells on their necks. A delightful imagery indeed, one that becomes even more beautiful in person. This country sees a harsh cold winter and only becomes warm and sunny after spring. In July, the peak of summer, Switzerland sees a rise in temperature to about 18-28°C. Many summer festivals are also celebrated.

Cities like Geneva , Zurich , Bern and Basel are great for touring in summer. Some amazing tourist spots to visit include Zytglogge Clock Tower in Bern, Lucerne ’s Wooden Chapel Bridge, Interlaken , Lake Geneva and Mt. Titlis of Alps. The Titlis Walk is a very coveted adventure and it is not for the faint-hearted. The walk across the suspension bridge towards the mighty Alps is a once in a lifetime experience though. Also, do visit the Rhine falls for rides and adventure, tour the Chillon Castle, explore Pilatus and catch cable car rides in Matterhorn, Zermatt. Skiing and paragliding are great at Jungfrau. Also famous in Switzerland are cheeses and potatoes, so do stuff yourself with local delicacies like Rosti and Raclette. Souvenir shopping here will include loads of chocolates, cow bells and watches (expensive lot).

You can fly to Swiss airports like Zurich, Basel or Geneva from either New Delhi , Bangalore, Mumbai or Chennai . Oman Air, Emirates, Jet Airways, Air India  and British Airways are some of the best airlines on the route. Railway lines are also laid down between Switzerland and other neighbouring European countries.

• Switzerland Tourism And Travel Guide

South Africa

South Africa is a brilliant burst of sunshine, grasslands, wildlife and canter trucks when you close your eyes and imagine a holiday here. In July, the season is dry and warm here, with pleasant afternoon temperatures of 23-25°C. Mornings however are cold and you need to wrap yourself in layers for a safari. This is a good time to enjoy the jungles of South Africa and soak in as much sun as you can. The game is also easy to spot and the animals are at their most relaxed.

South Africa has been the best destination for safaris, and why not? It offers the big-five in all its glory! Leopard, lion, rhinoceros, elephant and Cape buffalo are the five species of animals that South Africa boasts, in addition to others. Head to Kruger Park, the country’s flagship park to spot the big-five. You can hire a canter truck for safari or take self-drive option. Other national parks here also offer many animals, including rhinos, giraffes, zebras and wildebeests. There are also hiking and trekking opportunities here, from Table Mountain to the Cape of Good Hope, Boulders Beach for African penguins to Robben Island for historic buildings. The Elephant National Park and Sabi Sabi are also amazing game reserves for sightseeing and safari. The Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg is a must-visit sight to explore about the oppression of locals by the British colonisers and South African freedom struggle.

Cape Town International Airport and Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) are South Africa’s major international airports. Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates, British Airways, Jet Airways and Turkish Airlines connect India to South Africa. Cruises are not available directly from India but go from other European and African countries to South Africa’s major cities. Princess Cruise and RMS St. Helena are famous cruises.

• South Africa Tourism And Travel Guide

The United States of America, Uncle Sam, the Free World; many names and one landscape. USA is a western entity of a melting pot of cultures that has dominated the world in terms of economy, military, politics, culture, entertainment and social order for the longest time. With a happy sunny summer, the month of July is also the harbinger of the American Independence Day on the 4th of July. Long weekend holidays, parades, flag hoisting, firework shows, family and community dinners as well as huge Sales abound in America through the first week of July. This is definitely THE BEST time to visit. 

The 4th of July in USA is celebrated with great pomp, from parades on Boston streets to special discounts and sales in its shoppings malls and museums. New York hosts hot-dog eating contests while Philadelphia and Rhode Island have massive decorated parades with late night fireworks. Free concerts are also held and Washington DC is lit with fireworks over the Lincoln Memorial. All parts of America, big city or small town, are alive with people coming out to celebrate. For shoppers going to USA, this is a great time as almost everything - from clothes to electronics, home ware to snacks, go on massive sale. And genuine, slash-the-prices-to-half sale. For the rest of the time you are there, USA offers many other tourist cities like Florida (Disneyland), Universal Studios Hollywood, Las Vegas, Miami etc. New York is also amazing in July as it is the warmest month, with Maddison Avenue, Brooklyn Bridge and Central Park all abuzz with activity. 

The best way to reach America from India is to fly. Almost all cities of America have an airport and Indian cities like Mumbai , Ahmedabad , Amritsar , Delhi , Bangalore, Chennai etc ply direct as well as stop-over flights. Air India, Lufthansa, British Airways, Jet Airways etc are regular players on these routes. While in America, taking domestic flights is the quickest way of travel, and can be cheap if you book well in advance. Trains and buses are also plying across states but are rarely used and slower in comparison to plane.

Kenya is an amalgamation of raw, natural beauty, a great mix of sweeping plains and safari camps, the Big-five and flocks of exotic birds. July is an excellent time to visit Kenya, for safaris as well as for the great wildebeest migration that happens between Tanzania and Kenya borders. Beaches are also abound here and the pleasant dry temperature of 20-28°C makes your holiday very pleasing. 

The Great wildebeest Migration from Tanzania’s Serengeti to Kenya’s Masai Mara is really an adventure in itself, as these animals cross plains, dense lakes, lion colonies and crocodile infested rivers to journey across 800 km. The Mara River is where the last and most fatal obstacle meets these herds of wildebeest as they battle crocodiles to pass. This is a great tourist attraction and happens in June-July, depending on the migration. Wildlife Safaris here are famous at Masai Mara, Tsavo East National park, Aberdare National Park and Samburu National Park. Animals you will spot include lions, buffalos, giraffes, gazelles, zebras and antelopes. Amboseli National Park is renowned for its elephant sightings, while wildebeests are seen at Masai Mara. You must also go exploring the Great Rift Valley, Diani Beach, Manda Island and Lake Nakuru. Nairobi’s luxury beaches and hotels pamper you silly while shopping from local markets is a noisy fun affair.

Kenya’s international airports include Kisumu International Airport, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Moi International Airport, Eldoret International Airport and Wilson Airport. Non-stop flights from Mumbai to Nairobi are operated by Kenya Airlines. Jet Airways, Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways along with Air India also ply on this route. You can also choose to take the Mombasa-Zanzibar cruise to Kenya. For internal commute, you have cars, buses as well as trains.

Home to Machu Picchu and Inca Valley civilisation, Peru is famous for many other delights. Nestled in the South American continent, Peru has numerous rainforests, hills, carved step-mountains and the mighty giant Andes that is carpeted in greenery. These Amazon rainforests are nice and cool in the month of July, with average daily temperature of 18°C. Rains are scarce, making it a good time to go hiking and discovering the treasures of Peru.

The trek up to the stone carved Machu Picchu is a coveted adventure on many bucket-lists. In July, since rains are minimal and weather cool, you will enjoy this trek tremendously. Book your trek well in advance as the Inca Trail is usually full in July. Other hikes here include Salcantay, Choquequirao and an exploration of the Amazon rainforests. The Sacred Valley has some beautiful flora and fauna while Cuzco and Arequipa are great traditional cites. Lima has a quaint pre-columbian charm about it while its food and architecture is a legit throwback to an era bygone. Cordillera Huayhuash is for adventurers wanting to go mountaineering and Nazca Lines are for those that love histroy. They are drawings made intricately on a barren piece of land in the desert by the coast. Do not forget to visit Lake Titicaca and Colca Canyon.

Lima’s Jorge Chˆvez International Airport and Cusco’s Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport are Peru’s main airports. Mumbai and Delhi have regular flights to Peru with airlines like Jet Airways, Air France , American Airlines, British Airways and Lufthansa. Even though flying is the best way to reach Peru, you can also choose a ferry from Brazil, Leticia or Colombo that reach Iquitos (Peru).

The country of ‘pushovers,’ Canada is a country of people so good, they say that Canadians apologise when you push them. It is a brilliant country of blessed natural landscape, from forests to glaciers, waterfalls to frozen lakes. In July, Canada is facing its summer and hence sees a rise in temperature. Long warm sunny days of 22°C are followed by colder nights of 7°C. But the pleasant weather is bearable and in fact, aids in outdoorsy activities and tourism.

While it is not the warmest in July, Canada does begin to see some balmy weather. The season is perfect to start exploring the outdoors, with treks, hikes, visits to gardens and national parks. East Canada is a great place to start, what with its rugged puffins and uneven sea cliffs meant for hikes. You can go kayaking in the sea and spot whales swim by you, as well as meet blobs of glaciers floating right ahead of you. All this and more can be experienced in the Provincial Capital St. John. Other great places to see in Canada include Toronto, which can be called a civilised New York , the Niagara Falls (need no introduction) and the city of Montreal, which is home to Notre-Dame Basilica. St. Lawrence Market and CN Tower of Toronto are also great sights to catch. Some great picnics and walks are experienced at Stanley Park and Banff National Park, while you can always pack your hiking shoes and check out Moraine Lake and Louise. 

Toronto’s Pearson International Airport and Vancouver International Airport are two major airports of Canada. Regular flights from Mumbai , Delhi , Amritsar etc ply to Canada with airlines like Air Canada. For getting by in Canada, you have the option of hiring cars, using their excellent public transport system like buses and trains or hailing a taxi. Domestic flights are best for inter-city travel.

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The 23 Best Places to Go in 2023

By CNT Editors

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This is part of our global guide to the Best Places to Go in 2023—find more travel inspiration here .

In any given year, the exercise of assembling a definitive list of the best places to travel is both exciting and daunting. After all, we’re never short on inspiring places and experiences we hope to cross off. And so, every fall, when we convene to start the process of creating this list, we do so with great care, enlisting our extensively traveled network of writers from around the world—and for the first time this year, editors from other  Condé Nast Traveler markets—to pitch, endorse, defend, and eventually align on the places we believe that you, as our readers, will most want to travel to over the next 12 months.

Our 23 best places to travel in 2023 is a mix of old favorites worth visiting anew, and lesser-trammeled, even once-forbidden, regions ready to welcome travelers—yet they are all unified by highly anticipated new offerings and evolutions. There’s something here for every kind of traveler, whether you seek extraordinary excursions through ancient rainforests, a blossoming terroir-driven culinary scene, or dazzling cultural calendars packed with world-class music and rare art exhibits. We also believe that there’s more that binds than separates these places: an opportunity for richer engagement with local communities, slower travel, and more meaningful—and joyful—human connection. What could better speak to what we hope for in the year ahead?

Here are the 23 destinations—vetted by  Condé Nast Traveler editors from the U.S. U.K. , Spain , and India —to plan your 2023 travels around. Let them guide your next adventure. —Arati Menon and Megan Spurrell

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Best Places to Go in 2023

Auckland, new zealand.

Go for: Cultural and sporting events, new hotels, improved flight connectivity

Auckland will be one of nine cities to host the FIFA Women's World Cup in 2023. 

In June 2023, Qantas will begin running non-stop flights from New York City to Auckland. 

Widely praised for its containment of COVID-19, New Zealand held out until September of this year to finally eliminate travel restrictions introduced during the pandemic. Needless to say, the island nation is mightily gearing up for the throngs of foreign visitors anticipated in the coming year, especially in the city of Auckland .

Air connectivity with the U.S. has never been stronger. Nonstop flights are currently running from six American cities; the world’s fourth-longest leg, Air New Zealand’s nearly-17-hour flagship from New York City, debuted in September. Australian carrier Qantas has also announced its own direct flight to New York City, coming in June 2023.

Meanwhile, Auckland’s jam-packed events calendar seems to be making up for lost time. After a three-year hiatus, the popular Lantern Festival will be held in February 2023 to celebrate Chinese New Year. Pasifika , the largest Pacific Island cultural festival in the world, is returning in March 2023 after a two-year pause. And, in July, the quadrennial FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 will swing down under to nine host cities across New Zealand and Australia, with Auckland’s games held in Eden Park.

Aside from Auckland’s newest attractions that outsiders have yet to experience—like the $350M eco-sensitive Te Wānanga waterfront development on Quay Street—three years’ worth of flashy hotel openings also await. There’s the Park Hyatt , QT Auckland , the charming Hotel Fitzroy , and Hotel Britomart , New Zealand’s only 5-Green-Star certified hotel. Stays in the city pair perfectly with newcomers in Auckland’s rural periphery, like the Scandi-inspired Parohe Island Retreat and golf-centric Te Arai . Should you journey further into Aotearoa, new multi-day tours by luxury rail operator Great Journeys depart from Auckland Rail Station. From the looks of it, 2023 will—finally—give Auckland its time to shine. —Paul Jebara

British Columbia, Canada

Go for: New Indigenous-led experiences and wilderness lodges

The newly opened Klahoose Wilderness Resort invites guests to learn about Klahoose First Nation Culture—and experience fantastic wildlife viewing—in British Columbia's remote Desolation Sound. 

The province of British Columbia is renowned for its pristine natural beauty, from the Rockies to the storm-battered islands of Haida Gwaii , and new Indigenous-led experiences are connecting travelers to the cultures most closely tied to the land. At Haida-owned and -operated Haida House —which launched its new longhouse-style oceanfront cabins in May 2022—guests will explore Haida Gwaii while learning about the Haida worldview of Yah’guudang, meaning “respect for all living things and the interdependence that binds us.” Haida House guests will visit the islands’ ancestral village sites—including The Village of Queen Charlotte, which was recently restored to its Indigenous name of Daajing Giids, in an unprecedented move.

Further east, in the interior Chilcotin region of B.C., Indigenous-owned and -operated Nemiah Valley Lodge will open for its first full season next June. The lodge marks the first tourism venture on Tsilhqot’in title lands after a landmark ruling awarded the First Nation rights to their traditional territory. In 2023, they’re adding a sweat lodge experience and kayaking on Chilko Lake—Canada’s highest-elevation freshwater lake—led by Tsilhqot’in cultural ambassadors from the local Xeni Gwet’in community.

Back on the coast, Klahoose Wilderness Resort is also new on the scene, with a focus on Klahoose First Nation culture and wildlife viewing in remote Desolation Sound. There’s also Tofino Wilderness Resort  in Quait Bay on Vancouver Island , which will open under Ahousaht First Nation ownership in 2023. But Indigenous culture will also make its mark in the bustling heart of British Columbia: Salmon n’ Bannock , Vancouver’s only Indigenous restaurant, is opening Salmon n’ Bannock on the Fly at the Vancouver airport, the first Indigenous restaurant in a Canadian airport—and a welcome way to bookend a trip to the region. —Chloe Berge

Central California Coast, U.S.A.

Go for: New wine country stays, standout tasting rooms and restaurants

New accommodations like The Inn at Mattei's Tavern, Auberge Resorts Collection, are making the central California coast one of the state's hippest food-and-wine-focused getaways—and there's even more to come in 2023. 

A patchwork of laid-back beach towns , trail-laced redwood forests, and vineyards producing standout Syrah, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay, the Central Coast has been on our radar for a while now. Yet, all at once, it seems the region’s lesser-known destinations are taking on cooler second lives. In the Santa Ynez Valley , cowboy towns like Los Alamos and Los Olivos float on the same intriguing whispers that Joshua Tree did a decade ago (known, but not too known). The valley has emerged as the hippest new getaway for Angelinos, with its mix of funky tasting rooms like disco ball-decorated Future Perfect Wines , casually chic restaurants such as seafood tavern Bar Le Côte , and new accommodations, most notably the Inn at Mattei’s Tavern . Auberge Resorts Collection recently resurrected the latter, a beloved 19 th century landmark with a cabana-lined pool, a spa curated by New York City’s cult outfit The Well , and four restaurants, including a smokehouse that juxtaposes open-fire cooking and Shanghainese flavors. One hour north, Paso Robles , has finally shed its serious oenophiles-only image. Tin City , an approachable collection of wineries and breweries set within an industrial market, feels reminiscent of Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone , and boasts San Luis Obispo County’s only Michelin-decorated restaurant, Six Test Kitchen . Next year, the revival whizzes at Nomada Group will reopen two historic hotels—Farmhouse Motel, a 1940s spot downtown, and River Lodge, set at the entrance of Route 46 minutes from top wineries. They’ve even made the unassuming frontier town of Pozo, 30 minutes from downtown, Insta-cool by recently reviving the Saloon , where Willie Nelson once played, and adding airstreams and glamping tents as crash pads. —Jen Murphy

Go for: One-of-a-kind archaeological museums, waterfront resorts, cruises

The much-delayed Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, pegged to be the world's largest archaeological museum, is set to finally open in 2023 with all objects excavated from Tutankhamun’s tomb.

A far more hopeful period is afoot in Egypt after a decade of upheaval catalyzed by the Arab Spring. This year marked the centennial of the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb—and in November 2022, Egypt hosted the United Nations Climate Summit, COP 27.

Long-laid plans will finally come to fruition in the year ahead, with many high-profile projects, including the much-delayed Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, set to open at last. Pegged to be the world’s largest archaeological museum, the space—slated for a 2023 opening—will contain priceless items, including all objects excavated from Tutankhamun’s tomb. Further touristic draws, Egyptology-wise, stem from the exciting return of certain artifacts from the Metropolitan Museum of Art , as well as the relocation of the nation’s vast collection of royal mummies to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization in Cairo .

Grander transformations are afoot, with new infrastructure—and a new capital—rapidly taking shape. A development not without its controversies, Egypt’s New Administrative Capital, to the east of Cairo, will replace the current one as the country's governmental center, boasting Africa’s tallest tower and the 22-mile-long Green River Park, designed to look like the Nile River . On that note: Viking River Cruises have expanded their fleet yet again, with the Viking Aton due to launch in August 2023, sailing their popular  Pharaohs & Pyramids  itinerary. Meanwhile, the opening of eco-resort The Chedi El Gouna on the Red Sea is penciled in for December 2022—yet another reason for a multi-stop journey through Egypt. —Gilly Hopper

Galilee, Israel

Go for: Charming boutique hotels, vineyards, improved connectivity

Pereh Mountain Resort is one of several new boutique hotels to have recently opened in this part of Israel, drawing international tourists to the rural food and wine destination. 

Perched atop a hill and surrounded by olive groves and orchards, the Pereh Mountain Resort underscores why Galilee has earned its nickname as the Tuscany of Israel. 

For decades, food and wine aficionados from Tel Aviv have been making the windy drive north to Israel’s Galilee region, where the landscape unfolds into lush green hills and valleys. For locals, this fertile corner filled with fruit farms, organic dairies, and family-run wineries, has long been revered as Israel’s own Tuscany.

And now, international tourists are discovering the region’s bounty as well: A flurry of new boutique hotels have opened over the past year, including the Pereh Mountain Resort , perched atop a hill and surrounded by olive groves and orchards; and the Galei Kinneret , reborn with a kitchen led by celebrity chef Assaf Granit. At The Farmhouse , which also opened in 2021, guests sleep among vineyards, and after Watsu pool therapy and jeep tours, are invited to pair local wines with artisanal cheeses and local produce. Tiberias, the Galilee’s largest city, is also set for a facelift with a new promenade along the same shores where Jesus is said to have walked on water—and new direct flights to Israel from Atlanta (Delta; starting in May) and Miami (American; beginning in October) will make access in 2023 easier than ever. —Debra Kamin

Go for: City hotspots, island getaways, and dazzling safari lodges

Take advantage of new openings in Nairobi and the Lamu archipelago, then check in to Angama Amboseli, a new lodge in Amboseli National Park opening in November 2023. 

​​ Kenya has long been a big draw for safari travelers, but there’s much more to see beyond the Masai Mara—and there are compelling new reasons to crisscross the country. While Nairobi was often relegated to one-night layovers en route to the bush, innovative new hotel concepts like The Social House Nairobi , which opened just before the pandemic, are beckoning visitors to linger awhile. The 83 sleek rooms are brimming with local products, like Kenyan coffee and toiletries, and the four restaurants and café are hot spots for Nairobi’s creative set to converge. Nairobi’s restaurant scene is also thriving, with creative kitchens like the farm-to-table Cultiva , the brainchild of Ecuadorian chef Ariel Moscardi, who fell in love with Nairobi during a short visit; he’s now at work on an experimental chef’s-table offshoot called Aya set to open next year. Plus, on the heels of opening her home to guests as the art-filled Eden Nairobi in 2021, designer Anna Trzebinski has now set her sights on the coast. She’s taken over three apartments in the beguiling island archipelago of Lamu , filled them with furniture and decor she designed, and will unveil them as Jannah Shela in 2023. With gorgeous indoor-outdoor spaces and a rooftop bar with the best views in Lamu, this is a chic hideaway for a new wave of travelers—both Kenyan and international. For those who can’t get enough of Angama Mara ’s dazzling details, the November 2023 opening of Angama Amboseli brings its contemporary African design to Amboseli National Park further south, where 10 tented suites come with sweeping views of Mount Kilimanjaro . — Sarah Khan

Loire Valley, France

Go for: New hotels and restaurants in historic châteaux, luxury train journeys

Gatronomic getaways like Fleur de Loire, opened last July, are proving that the Loire Valley has more to offer than historical châteaux (though there are plenty of those). 

Fleur de Loire from Michelin-star chef Christophe Hay has two restaurants, a pastry shop, and a 2.5-acre garden from which his ingredients are sourced. 

The Loire Valley has always banked on its abundance of royal châteaux and lush landscapes to draw in travelers. But it wasn’t until very recently, thanks to the initiative of hoteliers, creatives, and chefs, that the region sought to go beyond its picturesque historical marvels to establish new reasons to visit.

That effort began in 2020, with the gastronomic and nature-inspired getaways offered at Loire Valley Lodges and Les Sources de Cheverny , and has shown no signs of stopping. Raising the bar in a big way has been Fleur de Loire , double Michelin-star chef Christophe Hay’s fine-dining-led hotel in Blois, overlooking the Loire River, which opened last July. Hay restored a former 17th-century hospice to set up two restaurants, a pastry shop, a Sisley spa, 44 elegantly appointed rooms, and a 2.5-acre garden which supplies all of the produce for his cooking.

Yet there is also novelty for those who can’t shake the urge to sleep within the majestic confines of a castle. The Château Louise de La Vallière is a new 5-star Relais & Châteaux offering in forestland tucked between Tours and Amboise, open as of October 2022. Occupying a 16th-century château set within a 47-acre park that served as the first holiday residence of Louise de la Vallière, the first official mistress of Louis XIV, the 20-room property has been restored and redesigned by Jacques Garcia to its centuries-old glory: it approximates the style and customs of the era, down to the period dress sported by staff, in addition to original paintings, tapestries, decorative pieces, and even mealtime rituals.

It makes for a suitable home base to visit the Royal Château of Amboise in 2023 when the Saint-Hubert chapel, the resting place of Leonardo De Vinci, reopens after nearly two years of renovations. The Château will also host a new, year-long exhibition dedicated to Louis XI on the 600th anniversary of his birth.

But the newest way to make a stopover arrives next summer with the inaugural Le Grand Tour experience from Puy du Fou. The six-day luxury train journey spans a more than 2,000-mile tour of France in a Belle Epoque carriage, bringing guests to Chenonceau for a night, with private visits to the namesake château. —Lindsey Tramuta

Marrakech, Morocco

Go for: New riads in the city, desert stays, art and design exhibits

In addition to buzzy new hotel openings in central Marrakech, the Burning Man–inspired Habitas Agafay has just begun welcoming visitors to the Agafay Desert, a mere 45-minute drive from the city's medina. 

Marrakech has a dizzying energy that pulls you in, spins you around, and leaves you wanting more. All good reasons to make sure you have a soothing home for the night—and you will, thanks to a handful of exciting openings. Dreamy riad El Fenn has just added ten new rooms in the hotel’s signature style, mixing intricate artisanal details, bold colors, and striking contemporary art. On the other side of the medina, two new spots are coming this spring. Firstly, Rosemary , a bijou new riad with a calming courtyard and sunny rooftop, from Laurence Leenaert, the designer behind the LRNCE brand of ceramics and textiles. In the leafy Hivernage neighborhood, home to some of the city’s best nightlife, a new Nobu hotel will breathe new life into the former Pearl Hotel. Out in the Agafay Desert, a 45-minute drive from the medina, Habitas has just opened the Burning Man–inspired Caravan Agafay . Don’t go expecting rolling Sahara-style dunes—the stone desert here looks more lunar than sandy—but do expect boho tents, swimming pools, moon gazing, and plenty more. 

Marrakech itself continues to be a magnet for artists and designers: The new Monde des Arts de la Parure showcases 3,000 pieces of jewelry, ornaments, and textiles from more than 50 countries in a three-story wood-and-brick space lit by a dramatic octagonal skylight. At the Museum of African Contemporary Art Al Maaden (MACAAL), Malagasy artist Joël Andrianomearisoa’s “Our Land Just Like A Dream” explores traditional Moroccan creative knowledge, filling the museum’s spaces with works made exclusively in Marrakech through July 2023. —Nicola Chilton

Melides, Portugal

Go for: Lesser-known beaches, design-forward stays

The Manuel Aires Mateus-designed Pa.te.os has just opened in Melides, with four discreet houses that blend into 80 acres of Mediterranean landscape. 

Comporta’s lesser-known sister has been quietly simmering for some time now, but 2023 is set to become the year Melides emerges as the Portuguese beach spot to know. Its alluring landscape of white-sand beaches, pine forests, and rice fields will soon welcome exciting new properties, including Christian Louboutin’s much-awaited Vermelho this coming spring. The designer discovered the charm of Melides early—he’s been visiting for 10 years to design his winter collections, even naming one of his shoe lines Melides—and the boutique property will celebrate Portuguese artisanship and design traditions.

And there are others: Spatia —the Comporta resort frequented by travelers looking for minimalist design and quiet respite—will open a second hotel in Melides in 2023, while Umay’s otherworldly villas, inspired by the geometry of seashells, will follow in 2024. Also new to the area is the recently opened Pa. te .os , consisting of four discreet houses on 80 hectares of land, designed by famed Portuguese architect Manuel Aires Mateus to blend into the Mediterranean landscape.

Hotels aside, other 2022 openings like the Melides Pottery Museum, which celebrates Portugal’s rich ceramic history, and beach-front restaurants like À Toa on Praia de Melides , add to the excitement around this buzzy destination. —Abigail Malbon

Memphis, Tennessee

Go for: New public spaces, restaurants and hotels that highlight the city's heritage

The Memphian Hotel is an eye-catching marker of the city's hotel boom—it's just one of eight new properties opened in 2022. 

The Memphian Hotel shines a light on the city's heritage through design and cuisine, much like the city's coolest new restaurants.

Nashville claims a lot of national buzz, but the city of Memphis has been quietly reshaping itself to be the hottest destination in Tennessee. Over the past decade, its downtown has invested billions in revitalization projects—and now, visitors can begin reaping the benefits.

An upgraded Tom Lee Park will open downtown in 2023, and in time for Memphis in May , a month-long festival celebrating the city’s culture with the famed Beale Street Music Festival and the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest. The $60 million transformation will add new pavilions, meditative paths, riverfront seating, sound gardens, and the Canopy Walk connecting the park to downtown—all a fitting tribute to the park’s heroic namesake, a Black Memphian who, nearly a century ago, rescued passengers from a sinking steamboat on the Mississippi River. Next up: The Walk on Union , said to be the largest new mixed-use development in the Southeast, will play host to retail businesses, green spaces, and two new Hilton hotels as it opens in phases over the next few years.

Memphis is experiencing a hotel boom, with eight new properties in 2022 and more on the way. Recently opened are the funky  The Memphian and Hyatt's first  Caption concept, both of which shine a light on the city’s heritage through design and cuisine, much like the latest crop of Memphis restaurants. Barbecue still reigns, but the city’s trendiest spots are lightening things up: Raw Girls now has two brick-and-mortar smoothie and juice bars, Food Network star chef Tamra Patterson will open a new vegetarian spot in 2023, and craft cocktail bar Cameo , opened this year, serves up sophisticated mocktails. —Kelsey Ogletree

Mendoza, Argentina

Go for: Women-led food experiences, new lodges on iconic vineyards

At the foot of the majestic Andes, a crop of stylish new restaurants and hotels—many spearheaded by women—are giving travelers a new reason to raise a glass in Argentina's wine capital. 

Toasting with Malbec in front of the majestic Andes is how people celebrate in Mendoza , and a slew of stylish restaurant and hotel openings—many of which are spearheaded by women—provides ever more reason to raise a glass in Argentina’s Great Wine Capital (it is just 90 minutes by plane from Buenos Aires , after all).

Mendoza’s new bodega wining and dining experiences are many. There’s chef Patricia Courtois’s 5 Suelos at Durigutti Family Winemakers (opened April 2022), sommelier Camila Cerezo Pawlak’s Ruda restaurant in Tupungato Winelands (January 2022), and Catena Zapata’s opulent Angélica named for the family matriarch (November 2022).

Zonda at Bodega Lagarde—an organic, B-Corp certified winery that marks its 125th anniversary in 2023—stands out, however, for showcasing the best of Mendoza, from fantastic vintages down to its hard-carved teaspoons. Owner Sofia Pescarmona shares her family’s terroir with guests, who gather herbs and veggies and get a little messy making empanadas during Zonda’s immersive garden-to-table experience. Efforts are rewarded with a nine-course regional tasting menu paired with Lagarde wines, including the refreshing Proyecto Hermanas White Blend that Sofia makes with sister Lucila.

Plus, the latest venture of Susana Balbo—Argentina’s trailblazing female oenologist who helms her namesake winery—saw her lovingly refurbish a mansion with daughter Ana Lovaglio, unveiling it as the seven-suite SB Winemaker’s Lodge & Spa in April 2022; chef Flavia Amad Di Leo runs both the bodega and the hotel’s restaurants. Invigorated by in-room massages and asado by the pool, adventurous guests can then hire the lodge’s VisionAir seaplane, Argentina’s only such aircraft, and explore hidden corners of the world’s eighth-largest country. —Sorrel Moseley-Williams

Mustang, Nepal

Go for: Luxury mountain retreats, rare experiences in a remote destination

From design virtuoso Bill Bensley, the all-inclusive Shinta Mani, set in the remote, once-forbidden region of Mustang, is arguably Asia's most anticipated hotel opening of 2023. 

For decades, Nepal has been the Himalayan destination of choice for backpackers and trekkers drawn to its deep-rooted spirituality, endless adventure offerings, and those sky-piercing peaks. This hasn’t been the case for many luxury-minded travelers, though, who often chose neighboring Bhutan for its superior clutch of upscale mountain lodges. That will change in 2023 as Nepal unveils a wave of first-rate boutique accommodations and experiences.

Much of this shift is courtesy the recent update of Mountain Lodges of Nepal , a family-owned collection of deluxe accommodations scattered around the ultra-scenic Annapurna and Everest regions. By the end of 2023, they will introduce 15 premium, intimate lodges—a mixture of refurbished sites and new builds combining tradition (stone walls and colorful cultural motifs) with modernity (like dramatic floor-to-ceiling glass windows)—while offering multi-day treks, wild honey hunting, and helicopter rides to a Mount Everest-facing Champagne breakfast.

Come 2023, the 29-suite Shinta Mani Mustang, a Bensley Collection , arguably Asia’s most anticipated hotel opening, will open in the remote, once-forbidden ancient kingdom region of Mustang. Spearheaded by design virtuoso Bill Bensley, the all-inclusive mountain retreat brings together Tibetan design (incorporating upcycled materials), traditional wellness programs, unique experiences—like guided explorations of the mysterious, ancient “sky caves”—and unparalleled access to one of the Himalaya’s last frontiers. —Travis Levius

Ollantaytambo, Peru

Go for: Old-meets-new food and drink experiences, eco-stays

Ancestral earthen oven cooking known as pachamanca is offered to guests at El Albergue Ollantaytambo, part of the region's growing effort to showcase Andean food and drink traditions to a wider audience. 

The 100-year-old El Albergue Ollantaytambo also functions as a quintessential home base for travelers in the Sacred Valley, proving the village of Ollantaytambo is more than a pit stop en route to Machu Picchu.

Ollantaytambo is best known for its archeological site, a hillside Incan fortress that draws travelers off the train to Machu Picchu. But of late, the village has also become a terroir-driven culinary epicenter in the Sacred Valley, with local entrepreneurs placing a new era of the Andean food and drink traditions on the world stage. Taste herbaceous high-elevation rums, or infuse your own, at Destilería Andina ; sip Andean coffee, or roast souvenir beans, at Cafe Mayu ; and sample craft beer flavored with local fruit at Cerveceria del Valle Sagrado . Old and new continue to meet, through farm-to-table fare paired with creative cocktails at Chuncho ; meanwhile, tradition takes precedence with ancestral earthen oven pachamanca cooking in El Albergue Ollantaytambo ’s farm tour meals. And look for Destilería Andina’s new location with a full-service bar, opening in mid-2023, near Cerveceria del Valle Sagrado.

Don’t make the mistake of hopping on the train after a meal, either—unique hotels further the case for staying the night. The 100-year-old El Albergue Ollantaytambo is a classic home base, but you can also pamper yourself at the Qolqas Eco Lodge (spa included), or sleep perched in a mountainside capsule with valley views at Skylodge Adventure Suites . The latter opened in 2013, but the brand’s new Starlodge Adventure Suites and onsen are 2022 additions.

Plan your trip around cultural moments for the full experience: The Señor de Choquekillka festival, 50 days after Easter, honors the village’s patron saint with food, music, and dance; locals celebrate the winter solstice in June; and the entire village revels during Ollantaytambo’s anniversary every October. —Nico Vera

Queensland, Australia

Go for: Indigenous-led experiences, swanky new hotels

Queensland has returned thousands of acres to Indigenous groups over the last two years, a shift that has yielded special new experiences for travelers. 

New Indigenous-owned and -run experiences include moonlit spearfishing in Daintree National Park, alongside Eastern Kuku Yalanji guides, and Torres Strait Islander-led day trips from Cairns.

Australia is making an effort to return land to its native people, and Queensland has been leading the way, with thousands of acres going back to Indigenous groups over the last two years. For travelers, this shift is yielding new experiences guided by the insight of the original stewards of the land.

The ancient rainforest of the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Daintree National Park was part of a parcel returned in 2021, and now the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people are managing the national park alongside the state government. At the newly opened Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre , an ecotourism hub operated by mostly Indigenous staff, visitors walk the land with traditional custodians as guides; Kuku Yalanji Cultural Habitat Tours include night walking, crabbing, and spearfishing under the moon; and on Walkabout Cultural Adventures , Indigenous plants and medicines are highlighted on guided rainforest excursions.

Further north, lands near the Torres Strait Islands—there are at least 274 in the strait between Australia and New Guinea—were returned to Torres Strait Islanders of Aboriginal, Melanesian, and Australian background last year. Now, local Indigenous entrepreneurs have launched companies like Strait Experience , which offers a first-of-its-kind day trip to the islands from Cairns, making the destination more accessible than ever.

Bookend your adventures with a night in any of the chic hotels and resorts set to call Queensland home in 2023, including the Mondrian Gold Coast and the Ritz-Carlton Brisbane, part of the Queens’ Wharf project that is transforming the river’s edge. These join a new luxury hotel faction including The Langham Gold Coast and Dorsett Gold Coast , both of which opened last summer.

Lastly, don’t skip a visit to Queensland’s capital: Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium will host eight games in July and August for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand. Good thing getting to Queensland is easier than ever, thanks to three weekly nonstop flights between San Francisco and Brisbane, added by United Airlines in October 2022. —Devorah Lev-Tov

Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Go for: Landmark art and architecture events, atmospheric new hotels

The Sharjah Biennial opens in February to celebrate its 30th anniversary, with works from more than 150 artists from 70 countries (above, an installation at the 2017 event, by Joe Namy).

While it might seem like Dubai continues to monopolize much of the U.A.E.’s glitz and buzz, neighboring Sharjah has been quietly asserting itself as the cultural capital of the Emirates. On the heels of striking new galleries from the Sharjah Arts Foundation and architectural marvels like the Foster + Partners–designed House of Wisdom library, the Sharjah Biennial opens in February, on its 30th anniversary, with works from more than 150 artists from 70 countries. Also on deck is the Sharjah Architecture Triennial, curated by Nigerian architect Tosin Oshinowo in collaboration with visionaries like India’s Rahul Mehrotra and Brazil’s Paulo Tavares. The most atmospheric place to stay in Sharjah is the Chedi Al Bait , a tangle of 53 rooms and eight suites spread across a series of ocher courtyards in the historic district. This year, it gets a refresh with the addition of a 12-room boutique wing built in a 100-year-old family home. There are plush new ways to explore the less-explored emirate’s natural splendors as well. Lux Resorts and Hotels, known for its swanky digs in Mauritius , the Maldives , and China , is making its Middle Eastern debut with two new retreats in Sharjah coming in 2023: Lux Al Jabal is a beach escape overlooking an untouched stretch of the Gulf of Oman, while Lux Al Bridi will be a safari camp brimming with wildlife in the sprawling Al Bridi Nature Reserve. —Sarah Khan

Srinagar, India

Go for: New infrastructure for easier road tripping, elevated nature retreats

Srinagar, an alluring and once hard-to-visit destination in the Kashmir Valley, is opening up to travelers in a big way in 2023, with new roadways making it easier than ever to get in and around. 

In the heart of the Kashmir Valley, the gem of Srinagar—with its winding waterways and colorful houseboats—is equally alluring and challenging to plan a visit to. Yet the destination seems to be shifting gears, with the government greenlighting development projects that will benefit travelers.

Srinagar has some vibrant new openings:  Karan Mahal , a swanky, intimate stay in the historic residence of Kashmir’s former rulers and amid nearly 60 acres of orchards and woods, launched last year, while  Qayaam Gah , a stylish, Sufi-inspired nature retreat in the Zabarwan Hills, with unfettered bird’s-eye views of Dal Lake, opened this summer. Additionally, Indian Hotels Company Limited (also behind the Taj Hotels) will bring its affordable brand, Ginger Hotels , to Srinagar in the first half of 2023.

The capital is also about to get a boost in accessibility, with a spate of highways and tunnels planned to open in 2023 that will, among other connections, make it easier to drive from Kashmir—across breathtaking landscapes—to neighboring Ladakh, even in winter. Other side trips that will be easier to reach, thanks to the new infrastructure: Sonamarg (which translates to “golden meadow”), a stunning hill station that is poised for substantial tourism development in the years to come, and Pahalgam, an idyllic getaway that has long drawn travelers to its pastoral charms. The latter will see, in early 2023, the opening of  Shepherd’s Barn , a cottage stay by Ramneek Kaur (whose family owns the Bollywood-favorite  Pahalgam Hotel ), which will add rooms to an existing program of craft tours and local activities under the auspices of the Shepherd Crafts Cultural Centre. With so much change underfoot, there is no better time to experience the area— and before everyone else starts to do the same. —Saumya Ancheri

Go for: The performing arts center, two years' worth of hotel and restaurant openings

After a decade of construction, the Taipei Performing Arts Center has finally opened—just as the country has begun welcoming international visitors again. 

Elegant towering teahouses, otherworldly landscapes, and culinary excellence have long tempted travelers to Taiwan . Now, after more than two years, the island nation has reopened its borders to international visitors—and there’s quite a bit to catch up on.

One decade of construction later, the Taipei Performing Arts Center is finally open, with three performance spaces housed within sleek geometric buildings. A few kilometers south, the stylish Hotel Resonance Taipei recently unbolted its doors with 175 fresh guest rooms, offering sweeping city views and sleek modern interiors. Just before borders closed, the Taipei location of The Place hotel—equal parts polished and relaxing, with a teahouse in its lobby—opened in Nangang, and a design-forward branch of the Kimpton set down roots in the Da’An District. There’s even more to come, with the Sotetsu Grand Fresa Taipei Ximen slated to open in 2023 in the bustling Ximending, which was just named one of the “51 Coolest Neighborhoods In The World” by Time Out. Plan your meals around any of the five restaurants that earned Michelin stars in 2022: Shin Yeh Taiwanese Signature, Holt, Yu Kapo, Paris 1930 de Hideki Takayama, and Sushiyoshi.

Meanwhile, Taiwan’s oldest city, Tainan, has been attracting travelers who hop on the high-speed rail, headed for one of the 44 restaurants that earned Tainan its addition to the 2022 Michelin Guide . Also making it worth the trip: Anping Tree House, an abandoned warehouse that has been swallowed by banyan trees; the colorful and artsy Shennong Street; and when you’re ready for a nap, Mao House , a chic bed and breakfast that stands in stark contrast to its architecturally staid neighbors. —Ella Quittner

Turks and Caicos

Go for: Easier access to remote islands, cruise upgrades, sleek resorts

Big-deal infrastructure enhancements are making it easier to reach Turks and Caicos’ less frequented outer islands, changing what it means to have an exclusive experience in the archipelago.

The exquisite white sands and blue waters of Grace Bay Beach have long been the coveted endgame for visitors to Turks and Caicos . Lately, though, a wave of new hotels and developments in more remote parts of the island chain are changing what it means to have an exclusive experience here. 

Leading the way, the 46-unit Rock House opened this past May, with its sleek Mediterranean style (a departure from the archipelago’s traditional colonial aesthetic), private plunge pools, and sustainability efforts that preserve native foliage and limestone. But Rock House’s real magic is undeniably in its location: a clifftop perch above a secluded beach on Grace Bay’s north shore, where you can while away your days snorkeling in a protected marine sanctuary. More properties slated to come in 2023 include the 31-acre South Bank Turks & Caicos , a residential resort and marina, opening in March, at the top of Long Bay Beach with 18 waterfront villas and a five-acre swimming lagoon. The Strand Turks & Caicos will follow later in 2023, 20 minutes south of Grace Bay, with oceanfront residences and what feels like its own peninsula on Cooper Jack Bay.

Big-deal infrastructure enhancements are also making it easier to reach Turks and Caicos’ less frequented outer islands. On Grand Turks, a $25 million dock extension is set to welcome larger cruise ships in 2023. And on tiny South Caicos, a significant upgrade to the single-runway South Caicos Airport is scheduled for completion in June, meaning improved access to the least populated of the islands—like the uber-luxe Sailrock Resort , a favorite of celebs like Justin Bieber and Regina King. —Nina Kokotas Hahn

Go for: A revived cultural calendar, dazzling new hotels

In 2023, Vienna will welcome the return of the Viennese ball season after a two-year hiatus. 

Vienna has long been a European capital of groundbreaking art and music, and in 2023 the city has several landmark anniversaries on its cultural calendar.

After a two-year hiatus, the 2023 Viennese ball season promises lush nights of live orchestral music and dancing in black-tie. Two of the year’s sparkliest, the Vienna Opera Ball and the Vienna Philharmonic Ball, are also marking their 65th and 80th anniversaries, respectively. The latter is returning  on January 19 with performances by the legendary orchestra. Meanwhile, the Opera Ball, to be held  on February 16 , will host dancing “Under the Sign of Solidarity”—the night’s theme—in collaboration with  Österreich hilft Österreich (Austria Helps Austria) to fundraise for those most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Belvedere, home to Gustav Klimt’s famous  The Kiss , is celebrating 300 years since its completion with a year-long exhibition, “ The Belvedere: 300 Years a Place of Art ,” paying homage to the museum’s impact on Viennese art history. Also not to be missed in 2023: “ Klimt. Inspired by Van Gogh, Rodin, Matisse… ,” a collaborative exhibit by the Belvedere and the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, showcasing the prominent artists who influenced the master of Viennese Modernism.

Kick your feet up at Vienna’s chic new hotels. The  Rosewood Vienna , which opened in 2022, will welcome its first full year of guests with the new Asaya Spa. Then, in late 2023, The Hoxton is set to open a 196-room hotel featuring an events auditorium (a first for the hotel brand) honoring Vienna’s legacy as a hub for live entertainment and culture. —Matt Ortile

Go for: Locavore food experiences, forest hotels and saunas

In lush Wales, a foodie renaissance is taking place—drawing travelers to terroir-driven restaurants, distilleries, and revived pubs in untrammeled areas. 

A Welsh foodie renaissance has, admittedly, taken a while to arrive. But a new generation of chefs are digging into their terroir and emerging with handfuls of truffles, scallops, and cheeses, from James Sommerin’s Home restaurant in Penarth, to SY23 in seaside Aberystwyth, headed by Great British Menu finalist Nathan Davies. There’s also been the rise of hard-to-reach destination restaurants determinedly doing their own thing, such as Annwn in deepest Pembrokeshire, where Matt Powell forages most of his ingredients from the shoreline (the project is currently on hold as it relocates), and Gareth Ward’s Ynyshir in the Dyfi Valley , which was just awarded a second Michelin star. Ward’s empire will grow in 2023 with the opening of eight-seat Gwen—named after his mother—with sourdough pizzas on the menu. Paternoster Farm , meanwhile, set in a former Pembroke cowshed, is doing wondrous things with Porthilly oysters, Welsh Mountain lamb, and sea beet—with its Five Mile Feasts, a special menu, gathering up all sorts of local treasures. 

In Cardigan, the Albion Aberteifi —certainly the coolest hotel to arrive in Wales in years—is set to open a Scandi-Japanese restaurant on the river bank in 2023, along with a woodland onsen and spa. Wales seems to be turning into a hub for the UK’s thriving outdoor sauna scene: Snowdonia-based Heartwood Saunas is launching a new forest project this December, where groups of up to 10 can use a wood-fired sauna before jumping in the pools of the River Dulas (or head to the yoga deck), all while surrounded by old oak trees and natural pools. In Carmarthenshire, the seven-mile stretch of Pendine Sands is enjoying a revival. Caban hotel is opening in the spring alongside the Museum of Speed , which celebrates the many land-speed records made on the beach—including one by actor Idris Elba in a Bentley Continental GT. Reducing the speed a notch, a new slow-travel route of roads and walking paths, The Wild Drovers’ Way , unfurls over 180 miles from the foothills of the Cambrians into the Brecon Beacons—a lovely way to appreciate some of Wales’ rural highlights.

If you need somewhere to toast all this, you could head to Swansea, where Penderyn will open its new whisky-distillery experience in March, while in Cardiff, the St Fagans Museum of National History has been rebuilding the iconic Vulcan pub (beloved of Manic Street Preachers) on its grounds, set to open in 2024. Lechyd da! —Rick Jordan

Western Japan

Go for: Expedition cruises in the Seto Inland Sea, new onsen experiences

Luxury small ship company Ponant will launch a first-ever expedition cruise from Osaka in 2023, exploring old feudal towns and traditional fishing villages on Japan's oldest sea route. 

New luxury openings and a world’s-first expedition cruise are among a plethora of reasons to head for western Japan in 2023. In the Seto Inland Sea, which separates Japan’s main island of Honshu from the islands of Shikoku and Kyushu, luxury small-ship company Ponant has announced a first-ever expedition cruise from Osaka in 2023, which will sail along Japan’s oldest sea route. Exploring old feudal towns and traditional fishing villages on the coast of Honshu, as well as Inland Sea islands such as Inujima—once a copper mining hub and now one of the famous contemporary “Art Islands”—the 264-guest Le Soléal will chart a seven-night course towards the Sea of Japan, starting in May 2023. Also in the Seto Inland Sea, in a forest on Awaji Island, wellness retreat Zenbo Seinei just opened its doors. Designed by Pritzker Prize–winning architect Shigeru Ban, it features a 21-meter-long gallery for zazen meditation and a restaurant celebrating Japan’s culture of fermented foods.

On Kyushu island , the new Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen now conveniently connects cosmopolitan Nagasaki to Japan’s vast bullet train network. Good thing, as there’s a new Ritz-Carlton coming in the summer of 2023 to the vibrant, gateway city of Fukuoka ; and in the hot-spring town of Yufuin, Kengo Kuma—the architect behind the Japan National Stadium for the Tokyo 2020 games—has completed a new gallery at Comico Art Museum to house works by Yayoi Kusama, Takashi Murakami, and Hiroshi Sugimoto, among others, as well as two exclusive-use “Art Houses” with private onsen baths. Nearby, Kuma has also created the gorgeous KAI Yufuin , a contemporary onsen ryokan with views of Mount Yufu and enveloped in rice terraces whose beauty changes with the seasons. —Kate Crockett

Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico

Go for: Design-forward boutique hotels amid the region's jungle and waterways

The Yucatán Peninsula is already an easy-to-love destination—its food heritage just one of the reasons to visit—but a boom of design-forward stays are upping the ante. 

Just outside of Mérida, above, travelers will find the new Galopina, a five-bedroom, family-run guesthouse from Mexican owners Elisa Navarrete and Guillaume Galopin.

With a boom of design-forward stays opening their doors—in an already easy-to-love destination marked by verdant jungle and brilliant waterways—the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico’s southeastern bounds is poised to be one of the most enticing areas to visit this year.

The 22-bungalow Boca de Agua is set to open in April in Bacalar , with suites designed by architect Frida Escobedo, who was recently tapped for the forthcoming contemporary art wing at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City . North of Bacalar, tucked within the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is Casa Chablé , which will open in December 2022 with 10 rooms and bungalows. Guests take a 40-minute boat ride through lush mangrove forests, to arrive at the resort’s 12 acres of tropical jungle fronted by white-sand beaches. Plus, situated in the tranquil Xpu-ha cove, between the two bustling towns of Tulum and Playa del Carmen, the ultra-luxurious boutique property Hotel Esencia opened in November as one of the most refined offerings in Riviera Maya: the Esencia Mansion, a four-bedroom private hideaway with its own speakeasy, cinema, and rooftop infinity pool. And just outside of Mérida is the new Galopina , a five-bedroom, family-run guesthouse from Mexican owners Elisa Navarrete and Guillaume Galopin. After a stint in Paris , they returned to their home country and created their dream homestead in the jungle with miles of trails, organic gardens, and guest rooms offering meditative terraces. In May 2023, Maroma, A Belmond Hotel , will reopen on the Riviera Maya with 10 new waterfront suites, a culinary program overseen by chef Daniel Camacho, and a new look that will showcase Mayan culture and design with work by local artisans. —Michaela Trimble

Zamora, Spain

Go for: Romanesque architecture, dazzling lakes, and improved access from Madrid

Zamora, which is known for having the most Romanesque architecture in Europe, is becoming a European World Heritage Site in 2023—perfect timing, as a new high-speed train from Madrid makes it easier to reach than ever. 

Few know—even in Spain —that Zamora is the city with the most Romanesque architecture in Europe, but it was reason enough for UNESCO to make Zamora a European World Heritage Site for 2023. Additionally, its proximity to Madrid —an hour away thanks to a new high-speed AVE train, inaugurated just a year ago—put this underrated town high on our must-visit list.

But there is more to Zamora, such as its enormous modernist legacy and its Lagunas de Villafáfila, a collection of lakes that are home to thousands of migratory birds each season. There’s even more to see, scattered throughout the province: Lake Sanabria is the largest glacial lake in the Iberian Peninsula, and just a few miles away, Puebla de Sanabria is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. Towards the east you will find Toro, the epicenter of bold red wines—and home to critically acclaimed winery Numanthia that’s credited with putting the wine region on the map. Not far away, in the heart of Tierra de Campos, snag a table at Lera , which got its Michelin star in 2022, and is a favorite among wild game enthusiasts.

Finally, to the south, Arribes del Duero shows that Zamora province has it all—even fjords. Beautiful crags and cliffs mark the border with Portugal in a natural park that has become a center for viticulture and attracts reputed international winemakers. Olive, citrus, and other fruit trees, artisanal ceramics, and stunning natural beauty turn this secluded corner into a Mediterranean paradise. Consider the luxurious Hacienda Zorita Natural Reserve , and the Castillo de Buen Amor (refurbished in 2021) in Salamanca, just a 30-minute drive away, the perfect setting for your quaint Zamora escape. —David Moralejo

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Where to Go in July 2023: Best Destinations for Summer Trips

by Hamzah | Feb 3, 2023 | Destinations , Travel Bucket Lists , worldwide

The Summer of 2023 is getting closer and closer, and it is time to plan that perfect getaway in advance. With so many options for where to go in July 2023 to choose from, it can be challenging to pick just one destination. For that reason, we have put together a list of the 10 best places to visit in July 2023. Get ready for an adventure as we take you on a journey to the most stunning and breathtaking destinations the world has to offer!

Where to Go in July 2023?

Santorini, greece, bali, indonesia, paris, france, cape town, south africa, tokyo, japan, maui, hawaii, sydney, australia, rio de janeiro, brazil, queenstown, new zealand.

July in Santorini is the epitome of a perfect summer holiday. With warm weather and endless sunshine, it is the perfect time to soak up the sun on the island’s stunning beaches. You can also explore the ancient city of Akrotiri and enjoy the island’s vibrant nightlife. The Aegean Sea sparkles against the white buildings and blue-domed churches, creating an atmosphere that is both enchanting and rejuvenating.

Moreover, Santorini is also known for its delicious cuisine. Specifically, they are a blend of traditional Greek dishes and local ingredients, such as fresh seafood and local wines. Where to go in July 2023 during your stay in Santorini? Visit the island’s cliff-side villages, such as Oia and Imerovigli. They offer some of the most spectacular views in Greece. Moreover, these places are perfect for escaping from the hustle and bustle of daily life. So, immerse yourself in a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere!

Where to go in July 2023? Look no further than Bali! Bali, Indonesia , is an island of unparalleled beauty , with lush green landscapes, sparkling waters, and a rich cultural heritage. July is the perfect time to visit this tropical paradise, as the weather is warm and sunny, making it the ideal time to explore the island. From hiking to water temples and surfing to yoga, various activities are available to suit all interests and abilities.

Bali’s lush green landscapes and sparkling waters create a truly rejuvenating atmosphere. Moreover, its vibrant culture offers a fascinating glimpse into the heart and soul of Indonesia. Whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation, Bali has something for everyone. From its world-famous surf spots to its tranquil temples, Bali is a place where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and connect with your inner self.

Paris, the iconic City of Love , is a destination that will captivate you this July. With its renowned landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, breathtaking architecture, and mouth-watering cuisine, Paris has everything you need for an unforgettable summer. July offers the perfect weather for exploring the city’s streets and soaking up its atmosphere, whether you’re a culture buff, foodie, or simply seeking a romantic getaway.

The summer season in Paris is truly special, and July offers the chance to immerse yourself in its charm. Then, where to go in July during your stay in Paris? You can explore its world-famous museums and art galleries. Or visit its cozy cafes and go for romantic strolls along the Seine. Moreover, Paris is also renowned for its cuisines, blending delicious traditional French dishes with fresh local ingredients. If you are a foodie, you will love a food trip idea in Paris!

Where to go in July around Africa continent? Your first choice should be Cape Town! The legislative capital of South Africa is the ultimate destination for adventure and natural beauty this July. From its stunning beaches to its towering mountains and vibrant city life, Cape Town has it all. Moreover, Cape Town’s unique blend of culture, cuisine, and outdoor adventure will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Whether you are seeking an outdoor adventure, a cultural experience, or simply a chance to relax and soak up the sun, Cape Town has something for everyone this July. As the weather is warm and sunny, making it the perfect season to embark on a scenic hike, go on a wildlife safari, or simply relax on one of its beautiful beaches. From its diverse cuisine to its breathtaking natural beauty, Cape Town is a summer destination that promises to exceed all expectations.

Iceland, a land of ice and fire, is the perfect destination for nature lovers this July. With its rugged landscapes, cascading waterfalls , glaciers, and geysers, Iceland is a destination unlike any other. Why do we put Iceland on the list of where to go in July 2023? With its stunning landscapes and unique geological features, Iceland promises an unforgettable summer experience. From glaciers to hot springs, Iceland is a destination that will awaken your sense of adventure. 

Moreover, July offers the chance to witness the spectacular Midnight Sun and explore the country’s unique and diverse landscapes. Whether you are seeking adventure or simply a chance to immerse yourself in nature, Iceland is the perfect destination for a summer adventure. Do not miss out on this chance to embark on a summer adventure like no other. So, this July, take a step into the land of ice and fire and discover Iceland’s natural wonders for yourself!

Get ready to embark on a summer adventure like no other in Tokyo, Japan. This captivating city merges contemporary and traditional elements, presenting you with awesome experiences. Moreover, there are a lot of things to do in Tokyo . Immerse yourself in the bustling energy of the metropolis as you indulge in endless shopping and dining options. Savor the city’s rich and diverse cuisine, ranging from traditional Japanese dishes to fusion cuisine.

The cultural experiences in Tokyo are just as diverse and exciting as its shopping and dining options. There are also a lot of places where to go in July 2023 during your visit to Tokyo. Visit the iconic Tokyo Tower, a symbol of the city’s modernity, for panoramic views of the city. Take a stroll through the tranquil Meiji Shrine. Moreover, get a taste of the city’s pop culture at Akihabara, a shopping district renowned for its electronics and anime merchandise.

A haven for those who long for a tropical getaway, Maui, Hawaii, boasts stunning beaches, breathtaking sunsets, and lush rainforests. With its clear waters and warm weather, this paradise island is the perfect place to bask in the sun, go for a swim, and engage in water activities. In Maui, you can escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy peace and tranquility, surrounded by nature’s beauty.

Moreover, there are many places to go in July 2023 during your stay in Maui since the island is rich with opportunities for adventure. From exploring the scenic roads leading to Haleakala’s top to visiting the iconic Iao Valley. If you want to indulge in a little pampering, Maui’s spas are world-renowned, offering an array of rejuvenating treatments. And in the evening, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the island’s many international restaurants.

As the summer heat sets in, there is no better place to escape than the vibrant city of Sydney, Australia . This bustling metropolis boasts an array of iconic landmarks, such as the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. The beaches of Sydney are renowned for their beauty, and are a perfect place to soak up the sun, swim, and relax. For that reason, many people choose Sydney as a place where to go in July 2023 for their vacation.

However, that is not all. The city is also rich in culture, providing endless opportunities to explore and learn . From world-class dining options to a thriving nightlife scene, Sydney has something for you to discover. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie, a beach lover, or a culture aficionado, you will find what you are looking for in this vibrant city. So why wait? Book your trip to Sydney today and experience a summer filled with adventure and excitement like never before!

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil , is an exceptional place to visit for an unforgettable summer experience. In July, the city will be ablaze with energy and excitement. From the world-renowned beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema to the electrifying nightlife and samba beats, Rio de Janeiro will satisfy all your wanderlust desires. Whether you are looking for an action-packed adventure or a relaxing beach holiday , there are always a lot of things to do in Rio de Janeiro !

Moreover, the city is also home to many historical landmarks for where to go in July for your next trip to Rio de Janeiro, such as the Christ the Redeemer statue, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Guanabara Bay. They are must-visit tourist destinations that you should not miss when you travel to Brazil. Furthermore, the blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and endless entertainment options make it the perfect summer destination for your next summer vacation in 2023.

Are you looking for a summer vacation and where to go in July 2023? Your best options include Queenstown, New Zealand ! Nestled in the heart of the Southern Alps , Queenstown boasts breathtaking landscapes. With its stunning views and breathtaking landscapes, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience. Moreover, we believe that once you set foot there, the scenery will take your breath away!

One of the biggest draws to Queenstown is its thrilling activities. Whether you are interested in skydiving, bungee jumping, or paragliding, this city is an adventure seeker’s dream come true. In addition to its exciting activities, Queenstown is also known for its relaxed atmosphere. So, you can spend the day soaking up the sun at one of the city’s many beaches or simply stroll through the charming streets. You will feel a sense of peace and tranquility in this idyllic setting.

No matter what your style or preferences are, there are a lot of destinations where to go in July 2023 in this list! So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your summer getaway today and experience the ultimate adventure and relaxation with JoinMyTrip . Our like-minded, fun TripLeaders surely will take your summer trips to the next level! Book a trip with us now!

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The 8 best destinations to visit in July

Summer is almost here, so it's time to plan that long-anticipated getaway. You're in luck because July is a great time to travel, with plenty of destinations offering unique experiences to suit every traveler's interests.

From Independence Day celebrations to cultural festivals, the world is full of exciting destinations to explore. Whether you're looking for adventure, culture or relaxation, these eight destinations will impress you.

So pack your bags and prepare for your next unforgettable summer vacation.

Washington, DC

Washington, D.C., is a city that truly shines in the summer, and July is the perfect time to experience all it offers. Exploring the city's many museums, galleries and historic sites during the long summer days is a treat for the mind and soul. The warm, sunny weather creates the perfect backdrop for enjoying the city's outdoor activities.

During the week of Independence Day, the National Mall, with its iconic monuments and memorials, is a popular attraction and witnessing the fireworks illuminate the city skyline on the Fourth of July creates a magical atmosphere that's hard to describe.

Additionally, the Smithsonian Folklife Festival celebrates cultural traditions worldwide during Independence Day week, adding to the city's vibrant cultural scene. The National Symphony Orchestra's Independence Day concert on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol is a musical feast for the ears.

Related: The perfect 1-day field trip in Washington, DC, for travelers of all ages

TPG tip : The Rosewood Washington, D.C. (available from 59,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points or $775 per night) provides a great location for families thanks to its Townhouses that boast private entrances, living rooms, kitchens and private back courtyards — perfect for hosting a July Fourth get-together with friends and family.

Belize in July is a feast for the senses, a symphony of flavors and rhythms that will leave you breathless. The Belize Lobsterfests are the stars of the show, each one a celebration of the sea's bounty and the ingenuity of the people who call these shores home.

From the barefooted havens of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, to the bohemian charm of Caye Caulker, the festivals will tantalize your taste buds with such culinary delights as lobster macaroni and cheese, lobster ceviche and other mouthwatering creations.

But it's not just about the food — there are music, dancing and competitions that will keep you on your toes. If that's not enough, the Belize International Music and Food Festival is the cherry on top, a two-day celebration of the country's diverse culinary landscape and rich musical heritage. With each bite and each beat, Belize will steal your heart and leave you yearning for more.

TPG tip : A great home base is Alaia Belize, Autograph Collection , available from 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points for $342 per night.

Zurich is a vibrant and unforgettable destination for a summer getaway. In July, the city hosts the Züri Fäscht , Switzerland's largest festival, attracting over two million visitors to enjoy culinary delights, fireworks and live music.

Open-air cinemas throughout the city, such as on the banks of Lake Zurich, offer a picturesque backdrop to watch classic movies under the stars.

The city's parks and lake provide a great place to enjoy a lazy afternoon or rent a paddle boat or kayak. Adventure seekers can hike or bike in the surrounding hills and mountains or take a cable car to the top of Uetliberg Mountain, offering breathtaking views of the city and Alps.

Zurich has a rich history and culture, with its charming Old Town and museums such as the Kunsthaus Zurich and the Swiss National Museum. The city's diverse offerings cater to all interests, making it the perfect destination for a summer vacation, whether seeking relaxation or adventure.

TPG tip : For a quick ride into the city center, book a room at ​​ Hilton Garden Inn Zurich Limmattal. Rates start at 31,000 Hilton Honors points or $120 per night.

Turkey in July is the perfect destination for beachgoers and cultural enthusiasts alike. The Istanbul Jazz Festival celebrates its 30th anniversary this July, bringing together artists from all over the world and pushing the boundaries of the genre.

For the adventurous traveler, the Uludag Premium Ultra Trail Marathon offers challenging running trails amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Uludag.

Related: 11 of the best hotels in Turkey, from Istanbul to Cappadocia

Finally, those seeking a more relaxed pace can enjoy the One Love Festival in Parkorman, a music festival that attracts hundreds of people with its six stages and diverse genres. From pop bands to techno performances, the festival appeals to a broad range of musical tastes and age groups.

TPG tip : Stay at the InterContinental Istanbul for around 67,000 IHG One Rewards points or $333 per night.

Cheyenne, Wyoming

Embrace your inner cowboy this summer. Cheyenne is an exceptional place to visit in July, especially for those seeking an authentic Western experience.

Wyoming's most famous event, Cheyenne Frontier Days, will return for its 125th year from July 21-30, 2023. This 10-day celebration features the world's largest outdoor rodeo and Western festivities, including thrilling carnival rides, a chuckwagon cookoff and world-class country music performances. Visitors can also expect to witness incredible rodeo action, bull riding and other exciting events throughout the festival.

The event also features standout headliners like Eric Church, Zach Bryan and Tim McGraw, who will grace the stage with exceptional musical talent.

TPG tip : Those planning to attend Cheyenne Frontier Days can stay at the nearby Little America Hotel & Resort — from 13,500 Chase Ultimate Rewards points or $203 per night — which offers a B.B.Q. with live music and brunch specials.

Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff is having a moment as an under-the-radar travel destination and Northern Arizona's hub for adventure. Perfect for summertime road trips and national park exploration, Flagstaff sits along Route 66 and is just over an hour from the Grand Canyon.

Incredible stargazing in July makes Flagstaff a destination unto itself. The world's first dark sky city, it's home to the Lowell Observatory. Visitors can look forward to observing a Full Thunder Moon on July 3 or the Delta Aquariids Meteor Shower on July 28-29.

Related: A retro renovation on Route 66: My stay at a modern-day motor lodge

Art lovers flock to the annual Art in the Park, which returns July 1-3, welcoming over 70 artists across the Southwest with live music, food and a beer garden. Flagstaff will also host the P.D.G.A. Masters Disc Golf World Championships from July 11-15.

TPG tip : As far as where to stay, the reimagined Americana Motor Hotel (rates from $135 per night) will reopen in June 2023 following an extensive renovation led by Practice Hospitality. Parked on historic Route 66, the retro-futuristic motor hotel offers a welcome respite after a day of adventure with "dive-in" movies in the heated pool and an expansive backyard with fire pits, games and telescopes to explore the star-spangled sky.

Japan 's summer months are perfect for immersing oneself in local culture, hiking picturesque national parks and relaxing on breathtaking beaches.

Furthermore, some of the country's most famous festivals occur in July. Tokyo's Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival is considered one of the oldest and most significant celebrations in Japan. The festival was established in the 18th century to ward off evil spirits and pray for the end of famine. Today, visitors gather by the Sumida River on the last Saturday of July to witness innovative and mesmerizing fireworks displays while indulging in delicious food and drinks.

The lavender season in Hokkaido is another breathtaking sight. Starting from late June, the stunning purple flowers reach full bloom from early to mid-July, offering visitors an opportunity to engulf themselves in the beauty of nature while enjoying the picturesque scenery.

Kyoto's Gion Matsuri festival is a month-long celebration that transforms the city into a lively party. The main processions occur on July 17 and 24, featuring stunning parade floats, Yoiyama festivities (evening street parties) and delectable street food. The Owari Tsushima Tennoh Festival has been a part of Japanese culture for over 600 years, attracting locals and tourists alike with traditional Japanese arts, musical performances and dazzling fireworks over the water.

Lastly, the Soma Nomaoi in Fukushima celebrates martial arts and horseback riding, which symbolizes resilience for the people of Soma. Visitors can experience the samurai spirit at this thousand-year-old festival, watching races, processions and other enticing events during the last weekend of July.

TPG tip : Just in time for the festivals, Fairfield by Marriott Hokkaido Eniwa just opened and is available from 15,500 Marriott Bonvoy points or $91 per night.

San Diego in July is where the worlds of Pride and pop culture come together in an epic collision.

One of the month's highlights is San Diego Pride, which will take place from July 8-16. This event is one of the largest Prides in the United States, attracting over 300,000 visitors from near and far. The festival celebrates the LGBTQ+ community with a parade, live music, food and drink. It's a great opportunity to experience the city's diversity and inclusivity.

Another must-see event in July is Comic-Con International, which returns to San Diego from July 19-23. This annual convention is a mecca for comic book enthusiasts and pop culture fans, with panels, workshops and celebrity appearances. It's a fantastic opportunity to indulge your fandom and meet like-minded people from around the world.

To make it even easier to visit San Diego, Alaska Airlines has launched two new direct routes from D.C. and Tampa, making the city more accessible for East Coast dwellers.

TPG tip : Book a stay at The Westgate Hotel for around 46,500 Chase Ultimate Rewards points or $183 per night. Timely with ComiCon in July, The Westgate Hotel will transform its afternoon tea service to a superhero-themed tea, with themed cocktails and delectable bites.

Related: The best hotels in San Diego

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The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2023

Where to go in 2023, according to T+L editors — for a breath of fresh air, a big-city adventure, or a glimpse at the future of travel.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

With much of the world reopened, 2023 is shaping up to be the year travel officially bounces back. We made our list of the 50 best destinations for 2023 a little differently this year: We asked Travel + Leisure's editors where they want to go in the months ahead. Some are raring to get back to Japan, while others have the Trans-Bhutan Trail on their lists. Still more are planning a sail around Greenland, a wine-tasting trip on California’s central coast, and a visit to France’s next big wine region (which is, as it happens, tiny).

A few up-and-coming culinary destinations made our list, as did a remarkable piece of art, the size and scale of which boggles the imagination. While many of the team’s picks are remote, breathe-in-that-fresh-air kinds of places, our list doesn’t skimp on cities where the hustle and bustle is part of the fun.

But with so many choices now back on the map, there are as many styles of trips as there are places to explore. That’s why, for the first time in recent memory, we’ve broken our list of best places to go into categories.

The hope is that, whatever it is you’re after in the year ahead, you’ll find it in one of these 50 places. And who knows? We may just see you there.

— Edited by Paul Brady and Maya Kachroo-Levine

Destination by Category

For cultural riches, alexandria, virginia.

K. Summerer for Visit Alexandria

With postcard-perfect cobblestone streets and quick access to the wineries of northern Virginia , Alexandria is an easy city to love. But these days, the reason to go is to see how effectively the city is confronting its own history, as destinations across the American South grapple with the legacy of the Confederacy . Alexandria, which was founded as a tobacco port in 1749, was for decades of the 19th century the site of the country’s largest domestic slave trade . Today, the Freedom House Museum has three new exhibitions honoring the people who were forcibly brought here. Meanwhile, the African American Heritage Trail, which opened in 2020, follows the Potomac River and encompasses nearly 200 years of history at 11 stops, such as the Torpedo Factory , where many Black men and women worked during World War II. An extension of the route will debut in February 2023 with 20 new stops, including Waterfront Park, the port from which enslaved people were trafficked to places like New Orleans. At Jones Point Park, visitors can learn about Benjamin Banneker , an inventor, mathematician, and free African American from Maryland who was instrumental in the 1791 surveying team that determined the border of the new U.S. capital of Washington, D.C. (For an even deeper look at the city’s Black experience, book with Manumission Tours , which is run by a fourth-generation Alexandrian .) The city’s most elegant stay is Morrison House Old Town Alexandria, Autograph Collection , which was recently voted one of the best city hotels in the continental U.S. in T+L’s 2022 World’s Best Awards. A new Hotel AKA is slated to open in Old Town in winter 2023. — Liz Cantrell

Cairo and the Nile

Emli Bendixen

It’s almost here: After more than a decade of construction — to say nothing of the hype — the Grand Egyptian Museum may finally open, just a stone’s throw from the Great Pyramids of Giza, this spring. What to expect? More than 1 million square feet of exhibition space, treasures including a 40-foot-high statue of Ramses II, outdoor gardens, and an expansive plaza from which visitors can take in the desert surroundings. Meanwhile, a number of new and luxurious ships have started sailing the Nile: Among the best choices are the Viking Osiris , an all-veranda vessel carrying 82 passengers, and the opulent Sphinx from Uniworld Boutique River Cruises , which has 42 cabins swathed in marble and hand-carved wood, with beds dressed in fine Egyptian cotton sheets. The hotel scene is also, thankfully, getting a refresh with a new Mandarin Oriental slated for downtown Cairo in 2024; the forthcoming 200-room Four Seasons Hotel Luxor is scheduled to debut in 2025 — not that you should wait that long to see the ancient Valley of the Kings. — John Wogan

“City,” Nevada

City, 1970 – 2022 © Michael Heizer. Courtesy Triple Aught Foundation. Photo: Eric Piasecki

Even in a state known for its vast, empty landscapes, Basin and Range National Monument , about a two-hour drive north of Las Vegas, takes “remote” to a new level. The 704,000-acre preserve, created in 2015, provides endless opportunities for hiking, climbing, camping, and cycling; its desert valleys and mountain ranges are also dotted with Indigenous rock art sites. But the reason to go now is “City,” the single largest contemporary artwork in the world, which opened to visitors in September 2022. Made from dirt, rock, and concrete, the monumental open-air sculpture was more than 50 years in the making, a collection of mounds, depressions, and stelae conceived by the artist Michael Heizer . The endeavor — which was made possible by joint contributions from art institutions around the country, including LACMA and MoMA — will open to the public for the 2023 season by reservation only . The mile-and-a-half-long sculpture feels at once ancient and futuristic, a destination just as awe-inspiring as the natural one surrounding it. — John Wogan

Havana, Cuba

Brad Ogbonna

The can-you, can’t-you continues, but the Biden administration has made it a touch easier to visit Cuba as a result of its May 2022 relaxation of some restrictions on travel to the island. These days, Americans can go as part of a group tour or visit individually on a "support for the Cuban people" license, travel advisor Molly Layman told T+L. “It’s one of 12 authorized categories of travel to the island,” she said, adding that “it requires citizens to have a full-time schedule of activities that support the Cuban people, which is easily fulfilled through buying services from Cuban entrepreneurs, staying in local homes, dining in private restaurants, and booking cultural activities.” Those ready to take to the vibrant streets of Havana will also need a visa, said Layman, who works as director of operations at tour company Cuba Candela . Travelers can handle that, she said, “on the day of travel at the airport check-in desk or from a tour provider.” (The cost varies depending on where a visa is purchased but rarely exceeds $100.) While the hoops are undeniable, they may well be worth jumping through in the year ahead. — Christine Burroni

Tangier, Morocco

Issam Elhafti/Getty Images

For decades, this northern Moroccan city has attracted a stream of bohemian expats including, most famously, beat-generation writers Paul Bowles and William S. Burroughs. That’s how it cultivated a reputation as a place where foreigners went to live, rather than simply visit. But Tangier’s reputation could change this spring, thanks in part to the opening of Villa Mabrouka — British designer Jasper Conran’s second Moroccan property, which follows the 2018 opening of L'Hôtel Marrakech . The one-time private residence of fashion icon Yves Saint Laurent and his partner, the hillside property has gorgeous views over the Bay of Tangier within walking distance to the city’s frenetic medina. Villa Mabrouka joins other newcomers, like the Museum of Contemporary Art , a space displaying work by regional artists, also called the Kasbah Museum, as it's housed in the renovated, 17th-century Kasbah prison. Also new on the proverbial block is the just-opened Fairmont Tazi Palace Tangier , set on a refurbished, century-old estate near the old city. Anticipation is already growing for a recently announced Waldorf Astoria, a 115-room and 21-villa resort set to open in 2025. — John Wogan

Lakes Region, Turkey

Istanbul and Bodrum are both rightly popular, but U.S. travelers will find much to love in other pockets of this diverse country — including this inland part of southwestern Anatolia, which travel advisor Engin Kadaster predicts “will be very popular in the years to come.” Kadaster has been including the Lakes Region on more and more itineraries for her clients, and helped coordinate a story in T+L’s August 2022 issue that included destinations such as Isparta, the region’s largest city and a center of rose and lavender production, and the ancient hilltop city of Sagalassos. The region’s most famous feature — naturally — is a series of tectonic lakes, created by ancient earthquakes, in the foothills of the Taurus Mountains, but it also holds many ancient Greek and Roman archaeological sites. A blessed lack of mass tourism means that this isn’t a hot spot for luxury hotels, but cozy places like Eskiciler Konaği , a renovated century-old mansion near Lake Eğirdir, or Aliya Konak , a seasonal farmstay on a working lavender operation in Isparta, are warm and welcoming. Intrepid travelers can ditch the hotels altogether by camping along the new Pisidia Heritage Trail , a waymarked route that unites the Lakes Region’s splendid nature and unique history as it passes through ancient sites like Kremna, Adada, and Yazılı Canyon. — Hannah Walhout

The United Kingdom

Courtesy of Peninsula London

T+L’s Destination of the Year may be undergoing a once-in-a-lifetime period of transition, but some things never change. For one, the country’s historic cities will always be home to hotels that mix stately grandeur and affable service. This past summer saw the opening of Gleneagles Townhouse , a chic, urban outpost of the iconic Gleneagles resort, in the heart of Edinburgh; next year London will welcome the cool glam of the Peter Marino–designed Peninsula London . Of the U.K.’s many world-class museums, two have recently gotten upgrades: Glasgow’s Burrell Collection , a stunning assortment of international art and artifacts, and the Manchester Museum , which is dedicated to the natural sciences. The Factory , Manchester’s new cultural center, pays tribute to the famous record label behind '80s rock bands the Happy Mondays and New Order. Gourmands (and the just plain hungry) will want to sample the broad range of culinary delights at London’s new Arcade Food Hall at Battersea Power Station, the latest stage in the rehabilitation of the historic building. No visit to the U.K. is complete without venturing out into its peerless countryside, and Scotland’s first rewilding center, Dundreggan , is one noteworthy place to take it all in: Managed by charitable organization Trees for Life , this 10,000-acre estate on the shores of Scotland’s Loch Ness plans to open a visitor’s center by the end of 2023. Meanwhile, the new Two Toms Trail in Lancashire covers 25 miles and features some of England’s most stunning scenery. — Peter Terzian

Getty Images

The perennially popular city made headlines in 2022 for its day-trip entrance fee , which takes effect in January 2023. But why only go for the day? The Venice Architecture Biennale runs May 20, 2023 to Nov. 26, 2023, with global exhibits curated by Lesley Lokko, the first Black architect to organize the event. Architecture lovers will also want to visit the Procuratie Vecchie, the 16th-century building along St. Mark's Square. Though its façade is one of Italy’s most photographed, the public has only recently been allowed inside, after the completion of a five-year refurbishment led by David Chipperfield Architects . Those looking for nostalgic luxury should plan to arrive in the second half of the year, with their bags packed for a train trip: Belmond’s iconic Venice Simplon-Orient Express will unveil two newly restored carriages from the 1920s and ‘30s in June, with opulent suites modeled to mirror the landscapes of Europe. — Nina Ruggiero

For the Food — and Wine

Courtesy of Four Seasons

It may have a reputation as a stopover city, but Athens deserves a closer look — and at least a few nights — in the year ahead. Not far from the Piraeus port , where travelers hop both domestic ferries and cruise ships that criss-cross the Mediterranean, the Athens Riviera has seen a surge of development. Four Seasons Astir Palace , which opened amid the pandemic, has a private beach on the sparkling Saronic Sea and two spaces designed by Swedish architect Martin Brudnizki, including a midcentury modern cocktail bar and Pelagos restaurant, which has already earned its first Michelin star. In the spring of 2023, One&Only Aesthesis will open just a few miles away, also along the waterfront. Next door is the brand-new Experience Park, with trails, fitness classes, fountains, a Zen garden, and bountiful native plants and flowers; it’s part of an $8-billion waterfront green space called The Ellinikon , on the former site of the city’s international airport, that’s still under development. In central Athens, the 2022 opening of the 43-room Xenodocheio Milos hotel in the Pláka neighborhood brings a bit of cosmopolitan verve, from the team behind international restaurant brand Estiatorio Milos . And while the Odeon of Herodes Atticus on the Acropolis isn’t new — the ancient amphitheater first opened about 1,900 years ago — it will bring back a full schedule of shows in 2023 after a pandemic-era slowdown. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

Central Florida

Courtesy of Small World Vacations

This fall, Hurricane Ian took 81 lives and caused $60 billion in damage across Florida. While the hard-hit southwestern part of the state continues to recover, Visit Florida president and CEO Dana Young said in October that other regions are ready to welcome travelers back. Central Florida in particular is worth a closer look, thanks to its ever-growing hospitality scene. Orlando and Tampa recently won a combined 14 Michelin accolades in 2022, when the guidebook publisher released its first-ever guide to Florida restaurants. The area’s family-friendly draws are better than ever: Disney’s recently opened, highly immersive Star Wars : Galactic Starcruiser is a two-night adventure that takes themed entertainment to the next level by allowing guests to eat, sleep, and breathe Star Wars with lightsaber training, out-of-this-world dining (blue shrimp, anyone?), and a trip to Batuu at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Meantime, Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary celebrations continue through March 2023, with limited-time eats, nighttime spectaculars, and festive décor. In Tampa, the latest Edition Hotel just opened with a sprawling rooftop pool club and restaurant from chef John Fraser. And getting both to and around Central Florida is easier than ever, with the recent opening of Orlando International Airport’s new 15-gate Terminal C and Brightline rail service connecting Orlando to South Florida destinations including Miami and West Palm Beach beginning in 2023. — Elizabeth Rhodes

The Jura, France

Guillaume Megevand

There’s a tiny French region just west of the border with Switzerland that’s producing some big, big wines. Thing is, only a tiny fraction of those bottles ever make it to the U.S., as T+L recently reported . That means you’ve got to go to the Jura — preferably before everyone gets wise to the area’s seven Appellations of Controlled Origin (AOCs) . Among serious oenophiles, word is already spreading about the vin jaune, “yellow wine,” made from native savagnin grapes and aged in the Jura’s distinct sous voile style, in which the wine matures “under a veil.” Not that wine is the only draw. The Jura also boasts a comté cheese trail — as if the région weren’t French enough — that connects no fewer than 150 fromageries and dairy farms. Hiking in the Jura Mountains, through Baume-les-Messieurs village and to the Hérisson waterfalls , is equally enticing, particularly as an antidote to all the wine- and cheese-focused sightseeing. Most surprising, perhaps, is just how accessible this under-the-radar area can be. Getting to the Jura takes two hours from the French capital by high-speed train , departing from Paris’s Gare de Lyon. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

San Luis Obispo County, California

Courtesy of Visit SLO CAL/Acacia Productions

It’s time to stop sleeping on “SLO.” Once considered a quick Pacific Coast Highway stopover for those visiting Hearst Castle — which reopened this past spring 2022 after a two-year closure — the central coast county is now a draw in its own right. SLO’s seven cities, including Morro Bay, Paso Robles, Pismo Beach, and San Luis Obispo, are all buzzing, and the area just earned official American Viticulture Area (AVA) recognition in 2022, thanks to more than 200 wineries, many of which are family owned . Two new Nomada Hotel Group properties opening in 2023 will welcome the inevitable influx of oenophiles: Farmhouse, a collection of 26 rustic-chic cottages with fire pits and hammocks, arrives in January; while River Lodge, a mile from the Paso Robles wine trail, is slated for May. Also being reimagined under Nomada is the Gold Rush–era Pozo Saloon , reopening in the town of Santa Margarita in August with outdoor soaking tubs, live music, trails for hiking and horseback riding, and a glamping site. Paso Robles just notched its first Michelin star ( Six Test Kitchen ), while San Luis Obispo’s SLO Public Market will welcome two new restaurants, All Good Grill and Todo Bueno , in 2023. Nature lovers should make a beeline for the Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove : The insects were recently put on the endangered list, but this spot still draws over 10,000 annually. — Nina Ruggiero

Victoria, Australia

Matteo Colombo/Getty Images

Australia has reopened, and this southern state is a particularly appealing corner of the country these days, thanks to hot springs resorts that are poised to make it the next big wine-and-wellness destination: Alba Thermal Springs and Spa on the Mornington Peninsula was the first to open in September 2022, with pools powered by solar and a commitment to achieving climate-positive operations. Metung Hot Springs in East Gippsland is set to follow in late 2022, with updated facilities in an area long known for its thermal waters. Phillip Island Hot Springs , which distinguishes itself with several saltwater features, plans to open in early 2023. Out on the Mornington Peninsula — a destination long popular for its world-class wineries — the InterContinental Sorrento began accepting reservations this past August 2022. Melbourne, Victoria’s appealing capital city, is also expecting new openings, including the intimate, seven-suite Hotel Vera Ballarat by year’s end, followed by the highly anticipated Ritz-Carlton Melbourne , set to open in 2023 in Australia’s tallest tower. Qantas is making it easier to get there, too: By December 2022, the airline will have four nonstop flights a week connecting Dallas and Melbourne, a welcome bridge between Victoria and the middle of the U.S. — Sarah Bruning

For Big-city Thrills

Jonathan Filskov/Getty Images

The eternally cool city will highlight its prowess with all things design, as the official UNESCO World Capital of Architecture in 2023. Venues across Copenhagen — contemporary parks, starchitect-designed skyscrapers, even typically humdrum infrastructure like playgrounds — will host events and visitors for a look at the future of the urban environment. One highlight will be the Copenhill Power Plant, the cleanest waste-to-energy plant in the world — that’s also the site of an artificial ski slope. “We’re going to do a lot of open-house events where 50 different venues are going to be open to the public that are usually closed to visitors,” said Copenhagen’s city architect Camilla van Deurs, who mentioned as examples churches; bridges; and the Danmarks Nationalbank, the central bank building planned in part by Danish design legend Arne Jacobsen. “Superkilen,” van Deurs said, “is a playground for kids and adults — and a cultural hub in the middle of Nørrebro, the most ethnically mixed neighborhood in Copenhagen.” New places to stay in the city also deliver a signature blend of modernism and hygge: Find it at the single-suite Kaj Hotel , which floats on a canal near Copenhagen Opera House, or the colorful new 25 Hours Hotel Copenhagen . — Tim Latterner

Lance Childers/Houston First

The 2020 opening of the Kinder Building, the latest addition to the Museum of Fine Arts Houston , cemented the city’s spot among true international arts destinations. The recent reopening of the Rothko Chapel , after a $35-million renovation, has only reinforced that reputation. Today, a wealth of new ventures is poised to raise the profile of Texas’s largest city in other categories as well. Opening next year, the JMK5 Arena will transform a disused racetrack into a 12,500-seat concert stadium poised to rival the venues of Vegas. It arrives on the heels of the relatively more intimate 713 Music Hall , which has attracted artists ranging from Judas Priest to Lil Nas X. The Houston Zoo is undergoing a much-delayed expansion that will include a Galápagos Islands–themed exhibit, which will feature an underwater tunnel and a penguin habitat. And the Houston Botanic Gardens , which opened in 2020, features 132 acres of diverse ecosystems, from wetlands to prairie. — Peter Terzian

Courtesy of Rosewood Villa Magna

The Spanish capital may finally, thankfully, be shaking off its reputation as the country’s somewhat stuffy business hub. A flurry of tony hotel openings throughout the city has helped, by bringing plenty of personality to what had been a staid scene. It began in 2021 with the arrival of the Mandarin Oriental Ritz ; Rosewood Villa Magna ; and Santo Mauro, a Luxury Collection Hotel . Then came the Edition in April 2022 . Breathing new life into the former Monte de Piedad de Madrid building, the hotel has 177 rooms, 21 suites, and two penthouses, plus two restaurants with food from chef Enrique Olvera and the culinary team behind Mexico City’s acclaimed Pujol . Elsewhere in Madrid, an already electric food scene has only gotten better — particularly in the glamorous Salamanca neighborhood and architecture-rich Chamberi district — with new offerings representing everything from Middle Eastern falafel and Argentinian asado to Spanish-Indian fusion and globally inflected vegan fare. — Sarah Bruning

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Welcome to the new Nashville. The city’s tourism renaissance is being fueled, in part, by a slew of just-opened hotels, including a Conrad , 1 Hotel , and a Soho House . (A Four Seasons just popped up in the bustling SoBro neighborhood, too.) The newly redesigned Hermitage Hotel , meanwhile, now has the first Jean-Georges Vongerichten restaurant in the South. The Fifth + Broadway complex has new outposts of old favorites, like fried chicken staple Hattie B’s , and the expansive Assembly Food Hall has dozens of choices, including bars, plural. That inimitable Nashville energy can still be found on Broadway, at honky-tonk bars that go until all hours, but there’s also Justin Timberlake’s sexy Twelve Thirty Club or live events like CMA Fest , which is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2023. Getting there has never been easier, thanks to low-cost carriers such as Breeze Airways and Southwest, both of which have recently added more flights from both coasts, not to mention places like Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Ohio’s Akron-Canton Airport. — Elizabeth Rhodes

Forget the notion that Steel City is just a town for football and factories. The metropolis is working on new cultural destinations that can’t be missed: While the next lunar lander is currently being built in Pittsburgh, the Moonshot Museum , which opened in October 2022, is putting on display mankind’s history of getting to and exploring the lunar surface. The Carnegie Museum of Art is hosting its 58th Carnegie International Exhibition, a huge temporary show of both historical and contemporary art which runs through April 2, 2023. The childhood home of playwright August Wilson has been restored and turned into a museum, complete with studios for arts programming. The city also has a new spate of hotels and bars drawing crowds, like the modern-chic Joinery Hotel Pittsburgh, Curio Collection by Hilton and The Industrialist, Autograph Collection in the Arrott building, one of the city’s first skyscrapers. Across the river in Allentown, Bottlerocket Social Hall is the perfect place to post up with locals and, yes, watch the game. — Tim Latterner

San Francisco

Ryan White/Parks Conservancy

Despite the so-called national conversation, the apocalypse has not yet come to San Francisco. True, this city had the most extreme wealth divide of any in California in 2020, and the seams here can be especially visible. But all the reasons SF shines — the arts, the nature, the dim sum, the sourdough — haven’t gone anywhere. And a slate of recent infrastructure and cultural projects show that many in the city are working to make it a better place to live and a more compelling destination to visit. The new Institute of Contemporary Art San Francisco walks the walk of its focus on equity: the museum is completely free and has opted against a permanent collection in order to direct more funds to artists and staff. The city’s urban national park unit, the Presidio of San Francisco , recently gained 14 acres with the opening of the Presidio Tunnel Tops , a green space designed by James Corner Field Operations, the lead firm for New York City’s High Line, which incorporated input from more than 10,000 residents. Another massive community-led park and mixed-use development is underway in India Basin , with sustainability and affordable housing as stated core values. The hospitality scene is also on the come up: 1 Hotel San Francisco , The Line SF , and Beacon Grand (formerly the Sir Francis Drake) have all opened in the past six months, and Auberge Resorts Collection is slated to debut a new hotel in the Hearst Building in 2023. — Hannah Walhout

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

American travelers can finally get back to the South Korean capital after years of pandemic restrictions — and there’s plenty to catch up on. The city’s arts scene is buzzing, thanks to new venues such as Konig Gallery , not to mention the announcement from Seoul Museum of Art that three new wings will launch by 2024. (An added boost came from Seoul hosting its first edition of Frieze this past September, during which many commenters asked if K-art may well be the next K-pop.) Meanwhile the destination has seen a number of new hotels open, including the surprisingly trendy Fairmont Ambassador Seoul and Josun Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seoul Gangnam , with its sweeping views of the globally famous district and stunning public spaces, including 1914 Lounge & Bar. — Tim Latterner

For Moments on the Water

Cape verde, the gambia, ghana, and guinea-bissau.

Arnau Ferrer

Though Ghana has, in recent years, surged in popularity as a destination for American visitors , particularly Black Americans , West Africa remains unfamiliar to many. One solution may be the innovative West Africa Archipelago cruises that Hurtigruten Expeditions aims to launch in November 2023. These two-week trips, aboard the line’s 180-passenger Spitsbergen , will stop in ports in four countries, with a huge array of activities on the expedition schedule: visits to historically important sites including Gorée Island ; wildlife-watching forays to spot hippos and manatees; and adventures such as scaling volcanoes and scrambling across lava fields. Though some cruise lines occasionally stop in West African ports, Hurtigruten’s deep focus on the region represents a step change — one that’s driven by passenger demand, said Asta Lassesen, the CEO of Hurtigruten Expeditions. “These islands are not as known as our other destinations, but they are teeming with unique wildlife, different cultures, and offer completely different experiences than you’d find in a traditional cruise destination,” Lassesen told T+L. — Paul Brady

Coastal Ecuador

Courtesy of Kontiki Expeditions

Many travelers know the historic capital city of Quito and the incredibly biodiverse Galápagos Islands , but now's the time to visit Ecuador’s stunning Pacific coastline. From surf towns like Montañita to the preserved beaches and cloud forest of Machalilla National Park, coastal Ecuador is packed with outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Kontiki Expeditions unlocks the region with eight-day yacht cruises that visit five of the country’s 24 provinces, hitting destinations including Isla de la Plata and Salinas. A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Kontiki Expeditions operates an intimate ship with just nine staterooms, refined outdoor and indoor spaces, and a nearly 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio. (Guests can book an individual room, or charter the entire 18-passenger yacht.) Getting there has gotten smoother, too: U.S. airlines including American, JetBlue, and Spirit now offer direct flights to Guayaquil, from which Kontiki Expeditions trips depart. — Elizabeth Rhodes

The Explora I

Courtesy of EXPLORA I

Just don’t call it a cruise: Upstart travel company Explora Journeys describes its itineraries as “ocean journeys,” nevermind the fact they’re aboard the newly built, 461-suite Explora I . The vessel is slated to hit the water in July 2023, with trips in the Mediterranean that visit popular cruise destinations such as Barcelona and Civitavecchia, near Rome, as well as lesser-visited ports including Patmos, Greece, and St.-Tropez, France. “It’s a new style of ocean travel that connects you with the things that are important,” Explora CEO Michael Ungerer told T+L. “There’s a craving to learn something new and make authentic connections without leaving your tried and tested luxury environment and services behind.” Indeed, life aboard won’t be monastic: Explora I will have 18 restaurants and bars and a massive spa, among other luxuries. Still, should all that ocean journeying become a bit too wearying, guests can always retreat to their suites, all of which have private verandas. In fact, when it debuts, Explora I will have the most space per passenger of any vessel anywhere. — Paul Brady

Antarctica is so last year. While Greenland may not have penguins, it does promise plenty of beautiful landscapes and seemingly endless horizons. The newly christened National Geographic Resolution will sail the Eastern shore of Greenland in June 2023, with opportunities to explore the Rømer Fjord depending on conditions. Ponant has a dozen distinct itineraries scheduled for 2023, including a number of round trips from Kangerlussuaq, in Western Greenland, that explore Baffin Bay. The brand-new Seabourn Venture, the line’s first expedition ship, will also be there in 2023; one particularly compelling August itinerary starts in Iceland, spends nearly three weeks along Greenland’s coast, then continues through the Northwest Passage before wrapping in Anchorage, Alaska. More conventional operators, such as Regent Seven Seas Cruises, are making the polar destination a fixture, too. The Seven Seas Navigator will visit Prince Christian Sound and make calls in Nuuk and Paamiut on a June 2023 sailing between New York City and Reykjavik. — Paul Brady

Hvar, Croatia

Goran Stimac/Getty Images

Those seeking a brighter 2023 will find it on Hvar: This Dalmatian Coast island calls itself the sunniest in Croatia. That means plenty of time for cycling more than 100 miles of bikeable terrain or kayak trips to secluded beaches. At night, those clear skies make for incredible stargazing: Jesla, on the island’s north shore, was named the first International Dark Sky Community in Southern Europe in 2022; and Moeesy , the island’s newest luxury hotel, has one room with an over-the-bed skylight for bedtime viewing. The town of Velo Grablje’s 14th-century charm peaks in July, when the lavender festival blooms with food, drink, and family-friendly activities all centered around the fragrant Mediterranean plant. And in Hvar proper, the harborside Riva Marina hotel reopened in June 2022 with refreshed waterfront terrace suites and a new restaurant and bar concept focused on local ingredients. Just down the block is the island’s first sustainable hotel , Beach Bay , which opened this past summer 2022 with an off-grid solar power system and a commitment to honor UNESCO’s Sustainable Travel Pledge . — Nina Ruggiero

The Path of Totality

©StudioPonant/Laure Patricot

A total solar eclipse, in which the moon blocks the sun and plunges the Earth into momentary darkness, is a “relatively common” phenomenon, NASA heliophysicist Dr. Michael Kirk told T+L. The trick is that most eclipses happen over water or in extremely remote places — which is why spotting the next one, on April 20, 2023, will be all about the chase. The upcoming path of totality will cross the Indian Ocean, graze Western Australia, then sweep across Indonesia and East Timor into the Pacific; astro-enthusiasts can chart its full course with the Totality app . That means the best way to catch the show will be to board a ship , such as the 188-passenger Le Lapérouse, for a Ponant and Smithsonian Journeys cruise from Bali, Indonesia, to Broome, Australia. The new Indonesia-based charter yacht Celestia will also be sailing around the edges of totality, making visits to the islands of Komodo National Park, the Moluccas, and Raja Ampat. The very best odds for viewing, said NASA’s Kirk, will be in Western Australia, where “the Exmouth Peninsula, Barrow Island, and the sea in between should have clear skies.” Eclipse chasers could drive the 750 miles from Perth to Cape Range National Park on the Ningaloo Reef–fringed Exmouth, but Tropical Sails Corp’s Pacific Explorer , which can take you there from Perth on a five-day Indian Ocean sail, seems a far more pleasant journey. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

For Fresh Air and Nature

Courtesy of Pal-Arinsal Ski Resort

This tiny European country, which at 181 square miles is smaller than Chicago, could soon turn into one of the world’s biggest ski destinations. The mountainous country, situated between France and Spain, has long been known for its reliable December-to-April conditions thanks to its high-altitude perch in the Pyrenees. But now, for the first time, three Andorra ski areas have been added to the Ikon Pass , putting a collective 7,600 acres of downhill terrain across 215 runs and 123 lifts into play for holders of the global lift ticket. At the same time, the three destinations of Grandvalira , Ordino Arcalís , and Pal-Arinsal (or, collectively, the Grandvalira Resorts Andorra ) will be available on a single local Andorra Pass , which starts at about $50 a day, a bargain by any big-mountain standards. Alternatively, visitors can opt for a newly launched Nord Pass, a multi-day ticket that works at both Ordino Arcalís and Pal-Arinsal for less than $40 per day. So, while these affordable mountains remain a bit of a challenge to reach — Grandvalira can be a four-hour drive from Barcelona — the days of smaller crowds may soon be a thing of the past. — Jamie Aranoff

Asheville, North Carolina

Tim Robison

This flannel-clad city in the Blue Ridge Mountains checks all the boxes, with year-round outdoor activities, sophisticated dining, and easy access, whether you’re driving or flying. (Asheville Regional Airport is on pace for a record-breaking 2022 , with service from 25 destinations.) But the year ahead offers more reasons to visit, starting with some cool new places to stay: Wrong Way River Lodge has a collection of A-frame cabins along the French Broad River that are perfect for white-water rafters. AutoCamp Asheville , another glamping-esque abode with Airstream campers, is slated to open by mid-2023. Downtown, the new Restoration Hotel promises a properly plush stay; its sister property in Charleston consistently ranks in T+L's World's Best Awards . (For those who’d rather be even closer to nature, The Glamping Collective is a newly opened, 160-acre site with domed pods and glass cabins situated a short drive from the city.) Asheville’s food scene has fresh energy from S&W Market , Asheville’s first food hall and the brainchild of award-winning chef Meherwan Irani. For all that’s new, visitors shouldn’t skip the old standbys: French Broad Chocolates is a local fave that’s since gone national, and Battery Park Book Exchange is the prime spot for a late-night glass of Champagne amid dusty bookshelves. — Samantha Falewée

Aysén, Chile

Stefan Ruiz

Chile’s Aysén region lies between two popular destinations — Torres del Paine National Park and the Lake District — with a captivating landscape of hanging glaciers, magnificent fjords, pristine lakes, and jagged peaks. Yet this 41,000-square-mile swath in northern Patagonia — the least populated in Chile — remains largely unexplored by visitors, in part because of its topography. But now, several outfitters and organizations, including Chile’s Route of Parks , are developing more itineraries and ecotourism routes for the non-mountain-scaling adventure traveler, with less-daunting activities like kayaking, hiking, and biking. Not long ago, travel company Explora opened a lodge in Aysén’s Patagonia National Park (working with nonprofit Rewilding Chile to support conservation and educational efforts) and launched eight- to 12-day trips that make travel across the region convenient, with flights, accommodations, and activities included. Factor in loosened COVID-19 restrictions and a newly elected president (the country’s youngest in history) as additional reasons to go now. Then there’s the continually growing partnership between Delta Air Lines and Latam, which allows for mutual lounge access and easy nonstop flights from Atlanta, Los Angeles, Miami, and New York City to Santiago, which is just a short connecting hop from Coyhaique, the gateway to Aysén. — Alisha Prakash

The Hudson Valley, New York

Andre Maier

Yes, the stretch north of New York City and south of Albany, along the banks of the lordly Hudson River, has been attracting enterprising former urbanites — as well as savvy travelers in search of charming towns and idyllic countryside — for the past century or so. But its transition from quasi-rustic to quietly glam marks a new and intriguing chapter. Next summer, The Ranch Hudson Valley , an offshoot of the West Coast’s rigorous retreat The Ranch Malibu, will open on a grand estate built by financier J.P. Morgan (as a gift for his daughter’s marriage to Alexander Hamilton’s great-grandson) and will offer multi-day programs to revive weary New Yorkers. Meanwhile, Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resorts Collection , a property with 60 freestanding cabins and cottages, will highlight the pastoral side of the region, with a farm-to-table restaurant and 140 acres of orchards and wildflower gardens. The region’s reputation for top-notch cuisine continues with the upscale tavern fare at Merchants Social in Hudson and Stissing House in Pine Plains, the Southern-inflected Darlings in Tilson, and the sweet fantasia of the Catskills Chocolate Co. in Catskill. (Longtime cheesemongers Talbott and Arding have recently moved to a beautiful new space in Hudson, too.) But don’t forget to leave room for culture. In Catskill, Foreland is a self-billed kunsthalle that extends across three 19th-century mills with exhibition spaces and artist studios. And the beloved sculpture park Storm King Art Center is getting a $45-million overhaul that includes an extensive new visitors center. — Peter Terzian

Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia

Thomas Retterath/Getty Images

“Zambia is a destination so many people miss,” said travel advisor Leora Rothschild . “The country’s Lower Zambezi National Park is one of my favorite destinations anywhere. Having a safari on a river adds a dynamic element,” she notes, since being on the water offers a different perspective than travelers get while on a game drive or in camp. Among the best places to take in this wildlife-rich destination is at one of its newest lodges , the luxurious eight-suite Lolebezi , which African Bush Camps opened inside the park and on the banks of the river this past June. It’s an ideal base from which to explore Lower Zambezi, which sits opposite Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to what the agency calls its “ dramatic landscape ” and “huge herds of elephant and buffalo.” Though remote, this corner of Zambia has recently gotten a bit easier to access, as pandemic-era travel regulations have loosened. Air Botswana announced in May 2022 that, following a two-year hiatus, it would relaunch flights from Gaborone, Botswana to Lusaka, Zambia. — Samantha Falewée

Prince Edward Island, Canada

Tourism PEI/Sander Meurs

As Canada’s smallest province, Prince Edward Island might get overlooked in favor of the country’s bigger, badder destinations for outdoor thrills. But this tiny island — known to many as the setting of L.M. Montgomery’s beloved “Anne of Green Gables” series — packs a punch. Here, you’ll find rugged cliffs, red-sand beaches , and a surprisingly robust golf scene, with 27 courses. Perhaps the biggest draw for adventurous travelers right now is the Island Walk , a 435-mile trail that opened in 2021 . Tracing the entire coastline, it passes through dozens of small towns and fishing villages. Walkers can start and end at any point, but the entire loop would take about 32 days, assuming a pace of 12-15 miles a day. Not that you’ve got to be hardcore to enjoy the trail: Towns and villages along the route have plenty to offer even non-hikers, such as the relatively new Slaymaker & Nichols , a cozy inn and gastropub in Charlottetown, the provincial capital. Classic PEI experiences endure, such as the seafood-focused, multi-course “ culinary experience ” from celebrity chef Michael Smith at the Inn at Bay Fortune . — Liz Cantrell

Stephanie Vermillion

When high-speed internet was installed at the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak, this past August, it was just the latest example of the new era dawning in Tanzania. The leader of the country’s changing face is President Samia Suluhu Hassan, the first woman of color and the first Muslim to lead this country, who took office in 2021. “I never expected that one day I would be president,” President Hassan told PBS . Not that she’s wasting any time. Since taking power, she’s devoted herself to strengthening infrastructure, women’s businesses, education, health care — she received her COVID-19 vaccine on live television to encourage others to get immunized — and sustainable travel. This summer, the Usangu Expedition Camp in Ruaha National Park opened in partnership with the Tanzania National Parks Authority , and the Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute ; Selous Safari Company recently refreshed its six-suite private reserve on Fanjove Island, a jumping off point for “marine safaris” by dive boat or kayak. — Samantha Falewée

Uttar Pradesh, India

Luis Dafos/Getty Images

Pummeled by the pandemic, India suffered through a grim 20-month closure, only reopening to travelers at the end of 2021. However, at long last — and with COVID-19 cases now under control thanks to large-scale vaccination programs that have delivered more than 2 billion doses — 2023 is primed to be the year visitors return to this soul-stirring country in full force. While many travelers will opt for Rajasthan’s royal palaces and desert jewels, there’s good reason to discover Uttar Pradesh on your next trip. India’s fourth-largest state is home to classic attractions including the Taj Mahal, in Agra, and the Ganges River ghats of Varanasi, the nation’s holiest city. But the new draws here include Vana, a wellness retreat in the Himalayan foothills of Dehradun. The resort, which is now managed by the World’s Best Award–winning hospitality company Six Senses, has rooms and suites that prioritize the lush landscape with balconies and terraces overlooking the surrounding forest and gardens, offering a true breath of fresh air. — Alisha Prakash

For Beach Vibes

Patrick Michael Chin

Already a favorite weekend getaway for East Coasters, Bermuda will become even easier to get to in 2023. American Airlines resumed flights to the island from New York City's John F. Kennedy International in November, which the carrier had paused in the early days of the pandemic. Upon arrival at L.F. Wade International, travelers are now greeted in a new $400-million terminal with automated immigration gates and preclearance for U.S.-bound passengers — plus unexpected extras like a putting green and an outdoor nature trail. Bermuda’s resort stock is on the rise, too: Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa recently debuted a top-to-bottom renovation, adding villas and a Bermudian outpost of Sunken Harbor Club, the tropical cocktail bar above Brooklyn, New York’s wildly popular steakhouse Gage & Tollner. The St. Regis Bermuda is another high-end hotel option, which opened in 2021 with the nation’s first casino and incredible views of Fort St. Catherine. The island recently rolled back all COVID-19 entry requirements, but the Atlantic country’s  remote work program  — which launched in July 2020 and allows for stays up to one year — is still running for anyone looking to make its pink-sand beaches a new home base. — Liz Cantrell

Cayman Islands

Warren Fleming-Hollinger/Getty Images

It just keeps getting easier to visit the Caymans. As of fall 2022, Cayman Airways flies nonstop from Los Angeles International to Grand Cayman, the first direct route from the West Coast to the British territory. “Getting to Hawaii takes longer,” said Kenneth Bryan, Cayman Islands honorable minister for tourism and transport, in an interview with T+L. Wherever they’re flying in from, visitors will find plenty of new offerings along Seven Mile Beach, on Grand Cayman’s west shore. Chief among them is the freshly renovated Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman , which is now outfitted with a La Prairie Spa and Saint June restaurant, complete with a beachfront bar. (The property is thankfully still home to the long-running, annual Cayman Cookout .) For travelers who prefer heart-pumping adventure to pool- or beachside relaxation, the Caymans can deliver: Hiking reserves like the 100-year-old Mastic Trail on Grand Cayman or the Bluff on Cayman Brac may not be as well known as the islands’ beaches — but they should be. Meanwhile a growing art scene is beginning to draw international attention, thanks to shows at the well-established National Gallery of the Cayman Islands as well as the vibey, creative atmosphere at new hotels such as Palm Heights , as T+L recently reported . — Christine Burroni

Coastal Uruguay

© Tali Kimelman/Posada Ayana

The vast skies, empty beaches, and delicious food of Uruguay remain as alluring as they’ve ever been. Still, 2023 promises to be a breakout year for the country’s lowkey coastal destinations, thanks to an ever-growing art scene that adds a layer of culture to this already inviting stretch along the Southern Atlantic. Among the newest must-sees is the Atchugarry Museum of Contemporary Art in Punta del Este, a 90-acre campus which opened in early 2022. Also nearby is artist James Turrell’s “Ta Khut,” an experiential Skyspace that opened in late 2021 at Posada Ayana, a small hotel in José Ignacio. (The seaside village is also home to intriguing contemporary collections at three Vik Retreats properties, including Bahia Vik , with its oceanfront bungalows.) A short drive from José Ignacio, the village of Garzón has lately become a hub for multidisciplinary artists thanks to Campo , an incubator and non-profit that brings creatives to this still-rural corner of Uruguay. — Paul Brady

Lush mountains, bustling beach towns , and idyllic resorts make Guadeloupe the perfect place for adventurous travelers looking for something Caribbean but different. In recent years, though, it’s been difficult for U.S. travelers to reach this French overseas department — particularly after Norwegian ceased its nonstop flights to the destination in 2019. Now, things are looking up again, as JetBlue has relaunched its nonstop service from New York City to the gateway city of Pointe-à-Pitre in November 2022. SkyTeam faithfuls can also now get there on Air France, on nonstops from either Miami or New York; American Airlines also serves the archipelago from Miami. First-timers tend to focus on two of the islands, Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre, the latter of which is home to Guadeloupe National Park. (A local tour company such as Vert Intense can help with the logistics of seeing Carbet Falls and La Grande Soufrière volcano.) Accommodations tend away from big brand names, though — this being France — there is an all-inclusive, beachfront Club Med La Caravelle . Other well-regarded options include the remote, hillside Le Jardin Malanga Hotel , with its dramatic ocean views, or the cliffside villas of the boutique-y La Toubana Hotel & Spa , along the southern shore of Grande-Terre. — Christine Burroni

The Jersey Shore, New Jersey

William Laird

“The real thing is quite different from TV,” George Distefano told T+L. Now a hotelier, Distefano grew up on the Jersey Shore — and today is doing his part to change the narrative around the beloved summer destination. His latest project, The James Bradley , is a 17-room inn that opened in Bradley Beach in August 2022 and is aimed at a crowd that’s perhaps quieter, chicer, and altogether less interesting to MTV producers. In nearby Asbury Park , which has long been a barometer of development, openings of The Asbury Hotel and the Asbury Ocean Club and Residences signal the start of a bougier era. Even Atlantic City is now substantially more chic, after many casino resorts, including Bally’s , Caesars , and Ocean , used the pandemic-induced dip in visitors to undertake hundreds of millions of dollars in renovations. “The area as a whole has had a bit of a renaissance,” Distefano said. One telling indicator of where the Shore is headed next? A Nobu Hotel is slated to open on the boardwalk any day now. — Hannah Walhout

Maui, Hawaii

Hawaii has been in the midst of a multi-year rethink about how tourism impacts the state . “We seek to balance the economic vitality of our industry with the health of our natural environment and the well-being of our communities,” is how Hawaii Tourism Authority President and CEO John De Fries put it this past summer . On Maui, that balance has been struck recently in efforts to renovate and reimagine some of the island’s most popular resorts. The 54-acre Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua , to take one example, is finishing up a major overhaul that includes a reimagined aquatic complex (with three “zero-edge” swimming pools), an expanded Club Lounge , and programming that will include not just cocktail classes and cooking demonstrations but also lei making and musical performances by Hawaiian artists. On the southwest coast of the island, The Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort is in the midst of its own refresh of all 776 guest rooms and suites; some are, happily, already good to go. There’s other progress beyond hotels: e-bikes are now plentiful on Maui, thanks to a recent rule change that allows them on island roads. Companies like RideSmart Maui lend out wheels that make exploring a breeze, whether your interest lies in the historic sites of Lahaina or the beautiful beaches around Wailea. — John Wogan

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Courtesy of Chablé Hotels

This picturesque stretch of the Yucatán peninsula is in the midst of welcoming four marquee hotels. The Waldorf Astoria Cancun just opened, a brand-new build with 173 rooms and five dining venues all overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Casa Chablé and The St. Regis Kanai Resort are slated to open in early 2023, followed by the Riviera Maya Edition at Kanai in spring 2023. Not new but refreshed is Maroma, a Belmond Hotel , which will reopen in May 2023 after a year-long closure with 10 new oceanfront suites and Latin America's first Guerlain spa. Farther south, closer to Tulum, the ultra-luxurious Hotel Esencia has added a posh new 10,000-square-foot, four-bedroom mansion tricked out with fitness and screening rooms, an underground speakeasy, and three pools — the perfect thing for a friends’ getaway. Not that hotels are the only draw: The last section of the new Maya Train project, which connects Cancun and Tulum, is expected to open by the end of 2023 after delays to address environmental and archeological concerns . The route will make several cultural and historic sites , including Chichén Itzá, more accessible and connect travelers to other destinations in the state of Quintana Roo, including Bacalar, Playa del Carmen, and Puerto Morelos. Also on the horizon is the opening of the long-awaited Tulum airport, which Mexico’s President Andrés Manuel López Obrador said will be completed by the end of 2023. — Sarah Bruning

Riviera Nayarit, Mexico

Courtesy of Auberge Resorts Collection

Long a vacationer’s paradise, this section of Mexico’s Pacific coast between Puerto Vallarta and the beach town of San Blas is only getting better in the year ahead. The 59-room Susurros del Corazón , Auberge Resorts Collection, began welcoming guests in November 2022 with experiences that include an introduction to raicilla , a lesser-known agave spirit, and boating excursions in Islas Marietas, a national park known for its biodiversity. On its heels, Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort , which is the second tented camp property from the brand , will open in December 2022. Accommodating just 30 people at a time, the lush 48-acre property is making wellness a key focus, so guests can expect to unwind with options like a temascal ceremony and nocturnal forest bathing sessions. An extra incentive to go? JetBlue launched new nonstop flights from JFK to Puerto Vallarta International, which serves as the gateway to the region. — Sarah Bruning

U.S. Virgin Islands

Courtesy of USVI Department of Tourism; Jamie Aranoff

With no pandemic restrictions, no passport needed, and plenty of inbound flights, the U.S. Virgin Islands are challenging Bermuda for the title of easiest warm-weather getaway for East Coasters. What’s more, the islands just established a Territorial Park System Trust Fund Board which will protect and preserve attractions like St. Croix’s Great Salt Pond and St. John’s Oppenheimer Beach. Caribbean flavors are, once again, another reason to go: The King of the Wing competition on St. Thomas, which celebrates creative chicken cookery, is back after a two-year hiatus; the 23rd annual Taste of St. Croix festival, one of the largest culinary events in the region, happens in April. Carnival , which returned in 2022, will be another event to watch in the year ahead. St. Thomas celebrates from late April through early May with food fairs, pageants, and parades; St. John fetes from late June through July 4, concluding with an Independence Day bash; and St. Croix sparkles from mid-December through Three Kings Day with more traditional, Christmas-centric fanfare. — Jamie Aranoff

For a Look at the Future

This past September, Bhutan, the impossibly scenic country between India and China, reopened to tourists after 30 months. But that’s nothing compared to the 60 years it’s taken to redevelop the 250-mile Trans-Bhutan Trail , which also reopened that month. Once the only way to travel across the Himalayan kingdom, the ancient pilgrimage route is now one of Bhutan’s biggest draws, a must-see for hikers, bikers, and other outdoorsy types. The trail connects 400 historic sites, with museums, fortresses, and temples along the way — plus stunning natural scenery and seemingly endless views. As part of its reopening, Bhutan has ended its policy requiring visitors to be accompanied 24/7 by a guide; instead, the nation has implemented an increased tourism tax, or Sustainable Development Fee, which is intended to fund social and cultural programs, infrastructure improvements, and environmental conservation. (The $200-a-day charge, up from $65, is also deliberately expensive, in an effort to keep visitor numbers low.) On the hotel front, Six Senses opened its fifth and final Bhutan lodge, Six Senses Bumthang , in March 2020, but the eco hideaway tucked in a pine forest in the town of Jakar, of course, has only just become accessible to foreigners. — Alisha Prakash

Boten–Vientiane Railway, Laos

Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua via Getty Images

It’s not every day the world gets a new cross-country railroad. The ambitious Boten–Vientiane railway that stretches across Laos may have opened for business in late 2021, but now’s the time to jump aboard, as travel to Asia reopens to American visitors. The remarkable engineering project is one of many financed by China as part of the country’s Belt and Road Initiative that builds heavy infrastructure across Africa and Asia. In this case, the train has dramatically slashed travel times across the difficult-to-drive if strikingly beautiful landscapes of Laos: Trips that would’ve taken a full day by road can now be done in just a couple hours of train-carriage comfort, as T+L recently reported . The route runs from the northern border town of Boten to Luang Prabang, which is known for its many temples. It then continues on to Vang Vieng, a gateway to some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes, before arriving in the capital, Vientiane, on the border with Thailand. Intermediate stations will help open up to visitors parts of the country that haven’t historically benefited from tourism, as Ruben Derksen, director of product and digital at Bangkok-based tour operator Exo Travel , told T+L. In the years ahead, the 257-mile railway may become even more critical, as just one segment of a Singapore to Shanghai route that will make continent-spanning journeys not just possible, but pleasant. — Paul Brady

Kyoto, Japan

Rudy Sulgan/Getty Images

Kyoto is often thought of as the serene, slowed-down complement to go-go Tokyo. And, certainly, the former Japanese capital has its historic temples, gardens, and teahouses. But since Japan’s October 2022 reopening to independent travelers , this destination and its new draws demand fresh eyes. The city’s famous Gion Matsuri , or festival, is set to return in full force in July 2023 following a pandemic pause, with enormous floats and a wealth of food and drink offerings; the event, which was first held in 869, is said to be Japan’s biggest festival. In August, Kyoto celebrates Gozan Okuribi , a bonfire celebration visible across the city that marks the close of Obon, a festival honoring ancestors. New hotels abound, including hospitality group Banyan Tree’s 138-room Dhawa Yura Kyoto , located in the heart of the city. Another new option is Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto , with 25 rooms set amid lush greenery in front of Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also new — yet firmly rooted in the city’s history — is the recently opened Maana Kiyomizu , where visitors can spend the night in restored machiya , traditional wooden townhouses. Though Japan has only just reopened, it’s already getting even easier to get there, thanks to Delta Air Lines’ brand-new routes from Hawaii to Tokyo plus flights that resumed this fall from Los Angeles. — Alisha Prakash

New Zealand

Barry Tobin; Courtesy of Tourism New Zealand

After a stringent lockdown, New Zealand has at last dropped all travel restrictions. Happily, the country is becoming more accessible than ever, thanks to the nonstop flights between New York and Auckland that Air New Zealand launched in September. (That long haul has also gotten comfier, thanks to the airline’s Economy Skycouch seats.) Wondering if those 17 hours in the air will be worth it? Auckland continues to evolve with no shortage of dazzling new places to stay. The 99-room Hotel Britomart , lined in timber and exuding Zen calm, is at the heart of Auckland’s Britomart District, nine blocks of historic warehouses converted into shops and restaurants. Mawhiti Walheke is a luxurious modern guest pavilion on a vineyard-covered island a short ferry ride from the city. And New Zealand’s spectacular landscape finally has a showstopper of a property to match it: Flock Hill , a fully serviced four-bedroom villa on a sheep ranching station in the Southern Alps region of South Island. — Peter Terzian

Teahupo’o,Tahiti

© Gre goire Le Bacon

The village of Teahupo’o, on the southwestern coast of Tahiti, will take center stage during the 2024 Paris Olympics, despite being 9,800 miles from the French capital. But unless you’re planning to compete, the year ahead is the ideal time for a closer look at this part of French Polynesia, before the world’s attention turns to the South Pacific. Some of the incredible waves here rate among the most fearsome on the planet — hence the name Teahupo’o, which essentially means “wall of skulls” — while others are more rideable for those with some surfing experience. Accommodations such as Tahurai can organize coaching sessions, including some hosted by local surf icon Tereva David. Those more comfortable watching the waves than riding them can get on the water with tour companies such as Teahupo’o Tahiti Surfari , which takes visitors by boat to see the famous Teahupo’o swell, one of the highest and heaviest waves in the world, as well as waterfalls, lagoons, lava tubes, and cliff-diving spots around the island. Meanwhile, it’s gotten easier than ever to reach Tahiti, thanks to Delta Air Lines’ new nonstop flights from Los Angeles to Fa'a'ā International Airport. Air Tahiti Nui has also added connectivity, with the only nonstop flights between Seattle and Tahiti, which took off in October. — Jamie Aranoff

Victoria, British Columbia

Carlina Teteris/Getty Images

What does it look like for a city to meaningfully prioritize “sustainability,” a word that often ends up more “feel-good” than actually “do-good?” Victoria is maximizing its green impact, aiming to make all new buildings carbon neutral by 2025 and halve landfill waste by 2040. Admittedly, few travelers pick destinations based on zero-waste initiatives, but it’s easy to take an environmentally minded trip to Victoria — the city even has suggested “green travel” itineraries , capitalizing on the outdoor beauty of places like Goldstream Provincial Park, one of many green spaces on Vancouver Island. Visitors have their choice of carbon-neutral hotels, such as Inn at Laurel Point and Parkside Hotel & Spa , and can even do carbon-neutral fast food at Big Wheel Burger , Canada’s first such restaurant. Other eco-minded activities include e-biking along the Saanich Peninsula to seaside towns like Sidney — with stops at picturesque wineries or the Butchart Gardens along the way — or hopping aboard an orca-watching cruise with Eagle Wing Tours , which is, of course, part of 1% for the Planet . — Liz Cantrell

JJ Farquitectos/Getty Images

Austria’s capital city may be old — like, Holy Roman Empire old — but 2023 will see neue life in this historic destination. The year ahead is the 150th anniversary of Vienna’s World’s Fair, and the celebrations include 12 months of cultural events. It’s also the 300th anniversary of the opening of the Belvedere , the palatial museum that’s mounting an art nouveau exhibit featuring 90 Gustav Klimt works in February. Adaptive reuse is also on trend here, and the recently opened Rosewood Vienna is but one example, set in a neoclassical building that was once a bank headquarters and, before that, an apartment building where Mozart lived. The now-reopened Reznicek is a contemporary gasthaus inside a 100-year-old inn; Grace ’s Michelin-starred fare is served in a refurbished wood-paneled café reminiscent of the ‘70s. Not that Vienna is only looking to the past: New initiatives have added 1,000 miles of bike paths, carsharing via WienMobil , a robust network of electric buses, and new development in the fast-growing Aspern neighborhood where every public space and street is named after a woman . Other new additions include Hotel Josefine , with its sultry Roaring ‘20s energy and Hotel Gilbert , with a greenery-cloaked façade and Scandi-inspired design. Nonstop flights from Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Newark, New York City, and Washington, D.C. are always an option but the most au courant way in may be the new Paris to Vienna Nightjet train , which runs three days a week, with private cabins with lie-flat beds and breakfast in the morning. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

More From Forbes

The 50 best bars in north america in 2024, according to experts.

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The interior of North America's Best Bar, Handshake Speakeasy.

The search for the perfect cocktail just became easier with the announcement of North America's 50 Best Bars List for 2024. Now in its third year, the list highlights the exemplary cocktail culture prevalent across the North American landscape. Cultivated by William Reed Ltd, the same folks behind the highly influential World's 50 Best Restaurants and World's 50 Best Bars Lists , it seeks to shine a light on both long-term mainstays and game-changing newcomers.

Created from a poll of more than 270 experts based in North America, it has quickly become a much-anticipated event in the drinking landscape. One akin to earning a Michelin Star in the restaurant world, taking home a Best of Category at the San Francisco Spirits Competition in the booze world, or a Gold Medal at the Great American Beer Festival.

For this year's list, Handshake Speakeasy in Mexico City was named to the top spot, a first for Mexico, after landing in second in 2023. Its win highlighted a growing cocktail scene happening in the land of tequila, where fifteen bars made the list, nine of which were in Mexico City. The United States topped the list with 26 entrants; New York City was home to twelve, including spots 2-4. Rounding out the winners were seven from Canada and two from the Caribbean.

“Handshake Speakeasy continues to push the boundaries of the art of cocktail creation as well as always putting service first, so we are pleased to see them crowned the first bar in Mexico City named No.1 on North America’s 50 Best Bars list,” says Emma Sleight, head of content for North America’s 50 Best Bars. “We also extend our congratulations to all the other incredible bars on this year’s list that are testament to how exciting, innovative and dynamic the North American bar scene truly is.”

All of the bars on the list are eligible for inclusion on the 50 Best Bars in the World list when released in the fall. Last year, nine bars from the North American list also made the cut and landed on the ultimate stage. Here is the ultimate punch list for a cocktail lover.

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The 50 Best Bars in North America 2024

1. Handshake Speakeasy, Mexico City

2. Superbueno, New York

3. Overstory, New York

4. Martiny's, New York,

5. Rayo, Mexico City

6. Jewel of the South, New Orleans

7. Double Chicken Please, New York

8. Thunderbolt, Los Angeles

9. Licorería Limantour, Mexico City

10. Tlecān, Mexico City

11. Zapote Bar, Playa del Carmen

12. Katana Kitten, New York

13. Café La Trova, Miami

14. El Gallo Altanero, Guadalajara

15. Employees Only, New York

16. Aruba Day Drink, Tijuana

17. Café de Nadie, Mexico City

18. La Factoría, San Juan

19. Kumiko, Chicago

20. Dante, New York

21. Civil Liberties, Toronto

22. Service Bar, Washington DC

23. Allegory, Washington DC

24. Botanist Bar, Vancouver

25. Herbs & Rye, Las Vegas

26. Baltra Bar, Mexico City

27. Bekeb, San Miguel de Allende

28. Kaito del Valle, Mexico City

29. Bar Pompette, Toronto

30. True Laurel, San Francisco

31. Attaboy, New York

32. Meadowlark, Chicago

33. The Dead Rabbit, New York

34. Selva, Oaxaca

35. Library by the Sea, Grand Cayman

36. Century Grand, Phoenix

37. Arca, Tulum

38. Pacific Cocktail Heaven, San Francisco

39. Cloakroom, Montreal

40. Bar Mordecai, Toronto

41. Maison Premiere, New York

42. Hanky Panky, Mexico City

43. Angel's Share, New York

44. Milady's, New York

45. Brujas, Mexico City

46. Mírate, Los Angeles

47. Cure, New Orleans

48. Best Intentions, Chicago

49. The Keefer Bar, Vancouver

50. Atwater Cocktail Club, Montreal

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What the New Overtime Rule Means for Workers

One of the basic principles of the American workplace is that a hard day’s work deserves a fair day’s pay. Simply put, every worker’s time has value. A cornerstone of that promise is the  Fair Labor Standards Act ’s (FLSA) requirement that when most workers work more than 40 hours in a week, they get paid more. The  Department of Labor ’s new overtime regulation is restoring and extending this promise for millions more lower-paid salaried workers in the U.S.

Overtime protections have been a critical part of the FLSA since 1938 and were established to protect workers from exploitation and to benefit workers, their families and our communities. Strong overtime protections help build America’s middle class and ensure that workers are not overworked and underpaid.

Some workers are specifically exempt from the FLSA’s minimum wage and overtime protections, including bona fide executive, administrative or professional employees. This exemption, typically referred to as the “EAP” exemption, applies when: 

1. An employee is paid a salary,  

2. The salary is not less than a minimum salary threshold amount, and 

3. The employee primarily performs executive, administrative or professional duties.

While the department increased the minimum salary required for the EAP exemption from overtime pay every 5 to 9 years between 1938 and 1975, long periods between increases to the salary requirement after 1975 have caused an erosion of the real value of the salary threshold, lessening its effectiveness in helping to identify exempt EAP employees.

The department’s new overtime rule was developed based on almost 30 listening sessions across the country and the final rule was issued after reviewing over 33,000 written comments. We heard from a wide variety of members of the public who shared valuable insights to help us develop this Administration’s overtime rule, including from workers who told us: “I would love the opportunity to...be compensated for time worked beyond 40 hours, or alternately be given a raise,” and “I make around $40,000 a year and most week[s] work well over 40 hours (likely in the 45-50 range). This rule change would benefit me greatly and ensure that my time is paid for!” and “Please, I would love to be paid for the extra hours I work!”

The department’s final rule, which will go into effect on July 1, 2024, will increase the standard salary level that helps define and delimit which salaried workers are entitled to overtime pay protections under the FLSA. 

Starting July 1, most salaried workers who earn less than $844 per week will become eligible for overtime pay under the final rule. And on Jan. 1, 2025, most salaried workers who make less than $1,128 per week will become eligible for overtime pay. As these changes occur, job duties will continue to determine overtime exemption status for most salaried employees.

The rule will also increase the total annual compensation requirement for highly compensated employees (who are not entitled to overtime pay under the FLSA if certain requirements are met) from $107,432 per year to $132,964 per year on July 1, 2024, and then set it equal to $151,164 per year on Jan. 1, 2025.

Starting July 1, 2027, these earnings thresholds will be updated every three years so they keep pace with changes in worker salaries, ensuring that employers can adapt more easily because they’ll know when salary updates will happen and how they’ll be calculated.

The final rule will restore and extend the right to overtime pay to many salaried workers, including workers who historically were entitled to overtime pay under the FLSA because of their lower pay or the type of work they performed. 

We urge workers and employers to visit  our website to learn more about the final rule.

Jessica Looman is the administrator for the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division. Follow the Wage and Hour Division on Twitter at  @WHD_DOL  and  LinkedIn .  Editor's note: This blog was edited to correct a typo (changing "administrator" to "administrative.")

• Wage and Hour Division (WHD)
• Fair Labor Standards Act
• overtime rule

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Love Exploring

Big US Cities Right Next To Gorgeous Natural Wonders

Posted: May 16, 2023 | Last updated: July 15, 2023

Get the best of both worlds

Asheville, North Carolina

The North Carolina city of Asheville is great for a city break: there's a lively arts scene filled with galleries, studios and museums, significant architecture such as the Basilica of Saint Lawrence, and a thriving culinary and craft beer offering. Plus, historic Biltmore Estate is just a short drive away.

But it's not all about urban life, especially when you consider its setting amid the impressive scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With over 800,000 acres of wilderness, mountain ecosystems and waterfalls, escaping for an outdoor adventure is almost compulsory here. As well as opportunities for hiking and mountain biking, there are lots of hair-raising adventure activities too, such as white-water rafting. Most outdoor attractions have opened with some limitations while tours and experiences are running at some capacity – check directly with the operator.

Indianapolis, Indiana

Second only to Washington DC in its number of monuments, Indianapolis is a city known for its memorials. Be sure to visit the Soldiers and Sailors Monument on Monument Circle, the epicenter of Indy, and climb its 330 stairs for a 360-degree view of the city. Another highlight is the three-block pedestrian promenade called Georgia Street that would typically be alive with various events, from Food Truck Fridays to Workout Wednesdays. 

Less than 10 minutes outside the city's core, you’ll find a picturesque setting with trails, lakes and creeks. Indianapolis is home to the enormous Eagle Creek, which boasts 3,900 acres of land and 1,400 acres of water. It’s a paradise for hikers, birdwatchers, fishermen and those wanting to try everything from kayaking to zip lining. There’s also an abundance of other parks and trails, and the eight-mile (12.8km) Cultural Trail, great for exploring the city by bicycle.

Columbus, Ohio

As the capital of Ohio, Columbus is certainly an exciting city. It offers a wide range of cuisines, a thriving art scene with three arts districts, several art hotels and galleries and plenty of musical activities, including opera, ballet and an indie music scene too. Foodies will love the 144-year-old North Market, where there's fresh, local produce. 

The city also offers a stunning natural landscape for visitors to escape to. A recent restoration program on the riverfront has resulted in 145 acres of new parkland, a network of paths and easy access to the river for kayaks and paddle boarders. Just outside the bustling city is the delightfully wild Hocking Hills State Park, with 10,000 acres of unbroken forest, craggy caves, vertiginous cliffs, picturesque waterfalls and woodland trails.

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Missoula, Montana

The presence of the University of Montana means the city of Missoula, with nearly 70,000 inhabitants, has plenty to offer tourists on a city break. Several breweries, numerous farmers’ markets and a variety of restaurants, cafés and bars, mean there’s plenty for those into food and drink, while shopaholics will enjoy getting lost in three different shopping areas. It’s also home to a number of prominent galleries, including Montana Museum of Art and Culture and Missoula Art Museum. 

The city also has easy access to a range of gorgeous landscapes. Activities in the area include fly-fishing, floating and paddle boarding on the Clark Fork, Bitterroot and Blackfoot rivers, while the Montana Snowbowl ski resort is minutes from downtown. Missoula is also located halfway between Glacier (pictured) and Yellowstone National Parks, which can both be easily reached by car.

Las Vegas, Nevada

The entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas never sleeps. With its bright lights, 24-hour casinos, flashy concerts and themed hotels, the resort city is one of the world’s most visited tourist destinations. However, Sin City isn’t all about casinos, shows and hotels: there are museums, too, such as Neon Museum, Las Vegas History Museum and Downtown Arts District that’s home to numerous galleries and cultural events. 

It might not seem like the most natural landscape to explore, but once you’ve had your fill of everything Las Vegas has to offer, it's conveniently located close to Utah’s Zion National Park. Just a couple of hours away, the drive is beautifully scenic, and once you get there, you’ll be free from flashing lights to appreciate desert waterfalls, dramatic canyons and breathtaking colors. For a shorter drive, there's Las Vegas' imposing Red Rock Canyon (pictured).

Check out Nevada's most beautiful sights and attractions

Denver, Colorado

As the capital of Colorado, Denver offers all the perks of a thriving city with the added bonus of incredible natural surroundings nearby. With a prominent food and beer scene, plenty of family-friendly amusement parks and fascinating museums, it’s a great place to spend some time. But once you drag yourself away from the urban landscape, the city's natural surroundings will make just as much of an impact.

Just 90 minutes from Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park is perfect for those who love the outdoors. With more than 350 miles (563km) of trails, including flat hikes around a picturesque lake and harder climbs that take a few days, there’s something for everyone, whether it’s your first national park jaunt or you’re a seasoned adventurer. Scenery-wise, the park is hard to out-do, with roaming wildlife, glistening lakes and undulating mountains.

San Francisco, California

The foggy, hilly city is home to several world-famous attractions, from the distinctive Golden Gate Bridge to the former prison of Alcatraz. Visitors (and locals too) love taking a photograph of the row of houses known as the Painted Ladies on Steiner Street (pictured). Fisherman’s Wharf, a cable car ride away, is home to sea lions and offers fresh seafood from stalls.

Only a short distance from the Californian city is the spectacular Yosemite National Park. With its enormous, ancient trees, thundering waterfalls and towering, vertiginous cliffs, it’s a visual spectacle. Activities here include skiing, swimming, hiking, horse riding, biking and fishing.

Salt Lake City, Utah

If you want to twin a city break with wild adventures, Salt Lake City is certainly a wise choice. With a growing craft cocktails scene and plenty of farm-to-table restaurants, it’s a foodie hot spot, but there’s also history to discover around Temple Square, the imposing, 10-acre headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. There’s also the family-friendly Thanksgiving Point, stuffed with entertainment options, from a museum complex to a golf course.

Salt Lake City is also perfectly located for nature-based exploits. It’s within an hour of 11 top ski resorts including Park City and Snowbird, that are both open throughout summer too. The Cottonwood Canyons (pictured) are just 20 minutes away and great for hiking, biking and climbing. There's also Homestead Crater. The geothermal spring hidden within a 55-foot (16.7m) tall, beehive-shaped limestone rock is the only warm scuba diving destination in the continental US.

America's most stunning natural wonders

Cleveland, Ohio

The lakefront city of Cleveland is an often overlooked destination and wrongly so. With a creative culinary scene, a range of new hotels and a walkable downtown area, it’s easy to drop your bags and begin exploring instantly. Highlights include the world’s only Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, free Cleveland Museum of Art, with a collection of 45,000 pieces, and the newly redeveloped entertainment and dining hub of Flats East Bank. 

The city also has easy access to the great outdoors. The Emerald Necklace that is the picturesque Cleveland Metroparks system encircles the city with nearly 23,000 acres of greenspace. In the city’s very own backyard, Cuyahoga Valley National Park (pictured) is just a short jaunt from downtown but feels worlds away, with over 140 miles (225km) of hiking, bicycling, and horse riding trails on offer. There’s also kayaking, paddle boarding and boating on Lake Erie.

Boston, Massachusetts

New England’s largest city, Boston is so popular for many reasons, namely its history and heritage, luxury hotels and great food and drink culture. When you visit, be sure to walk the famous two-and-a-half-mile (4km) long Freedom Trail, which takes you on a historic visit through Boston’s neighborhoods and tells the story of the American Revolution. It’s also home to plenty of child-friendly attractions, including New England Aquarium and Boston Children’s Museum.

Once you’ve had your fill of city life and want to immerse yourself in natural surroundings, there are lots of options. Whale-watching trips from Boston Harbor are popular, as is the photogenic Mohawk Trail, while Cape Cod (pictured) is only around an hour away for quaint villages, colorful lighthouses, seafood shacks and gorgeous sandy bay and ocean beaches.

America's most charming and historic towns and cities

Columbia, South Carolina

The capital of South Carolina, Columbia isn't just a busy city but is also home to the University of South Carolina. The most popular stop is definitely Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, where more than 2,000 animals reside along with beautiful botanical gardens. SC State Museum, featuring four floors of permanent and changing exhibits, a digital dome and planetarium are also worth checking out when it's possible. 

One of the best things about Columbia is that it never takes long to get from the middle of town to the middle of nowhere. The free-to-enter, 24-hour Congaree National Park is just 30 minutes from downtown Columbia. It encompasses nearly 27,000 acres, offering 25 miles (40km) of hiking trails and plenty of opportunities for birdwatching, picnicking, canoeing and kayaking. Nearby Lake Murray has scenic landscapes and gorgeous sunsets too.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

The capital of New Mexico, the mountain town of Santa Fe may look different to a skyscraper-heavy city with its Pueblo-style architecture and winding streets, but it certainly has a lot going on. Culturally, there are 14 museums and over 250 galleries, as well as 10 different art markets and festivals. It’s also got a distinct regional cuisine, descending from years of Indigenous American, Spanish and Anglo influences, that's manifested in more than 400 restaurants.

Outdoor enthusiasts won’t fail to be impressed by Santa Fe either. Sitting at an elevation of 7,200 feet (2,195m) in the southernmost Rocky Mountains, the city boasts mountain vistas and is surrounded by a million-and-a-half acres of unspoiled National Forest filled with juniper, pine and aspen. With over 300 days of sunshine in a year, it’s the perfect place to get active, with hiking, biking, fishing, golf and horse riding all popular activities.

America's most charming historic downtowns

Atlanta, Georgia

The capital of Georgia, Atlanta has everything from top-notch historic attractions to exceptional food and family-friendly attractions to offer. An important location in both the Civil War and the 1960s Civil Rights Movement, the city's history is best chronicled at the Atlanta History Center. Kids will love Georgia Aquarium and Zoo Atlanta (both Association of Zoos and Aquariums accredited), while foodies will appreciate the city's plentiful offering of everything from exceptional comfort food to fantastic fine dining.

When the city streets get too busy, Atlanta has some fantastic nature escapes up her sleeve. East you'll find the Oconee National Forest, drive west across the Alabama border to the Talladega National Forest or go north to the Chattahoochee National Forest – all within an hour's drive. Drive another two hours north and you'll find yourself in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (pictured). Covered in thick green forests, the towering peaks of the mountains are best seen from the highest point – Clingmans Dome.

Seattle, Washington

In Seattle you’ll already feel like you’re in nature, even in the midst of skyscrapers. But despite the natural surroundings, including forests, water and mountains, there’s still a distinctly urban feel to the city with its innovative tech scene, a walkable waterfront full of shops and restaurants, and plenty of attractions. One highlight is the Seattle Center, where you’ll find the distinctive Space Needle and Museum of Pop Culture.

Just a short drive from the city, Mount Rainier National Park offers over 14,000-square-feet (1,300sqm) of adventure. Powerful waterfalls and gorgeous wildflower meadows make for a picture-perfect landscape, and with over 130 trails to choose from there's plenty of exploring to be done. Depending on the time of year you're here, you can do everything from skiing and snowmobiling to mountain biking and fishing.

Santa Cruz, California

A favorite with surfers and sun-seekers, Santa Cruz is a tropical paradise. As well as gorgeous beaches and a hundred-year-old seaside amusement park, there’s also a huge range of dining options, cultural and artistic sites, quaint stores and entertainment opportunities in Downtown Santa Cruz and Pacific Avenue. It's the perfect combination of beaches, city life and nature. 

Beyond the coastal city is even more natural beauty. Santa Cruz County is home to the largest number of state parks and beaches in California, with 14 in total. One of the most striking is the Natural Bridges State Park. A wild landscape with one last sandstone arch rising from the sea, the 65-acre park is also a hot spot for monarch butterfly migrations, hosting up to 150,000 butterflies between October and early February.

Now take a look at the best new hotel in every US state

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