Every year, I like to put together a “travel list” with inspiration for the coming year…a mood board for adventures, if you will. When taking a look at Expedia’s travel trends for 2023, it was really interesting to see that so many of our travel ideas are piling up.
“This year is about travelers doing what they want to do, not what other people are doing.”
I can get behind it!
With that in mind, the majority of these to-do list items aren’t a specific destination, so I encourage you to use them as a jumping off point for ideas, which are basically a “choose your own adventure” and, well, an adventure!
While planning your next vacation and crossing things off this list, use Expedia rate tracking A tool to find the best flight prices for your 2023 trips!
From putting on planes all over the world to the places where your favorite TV show or movie is set, to renting vacation homes and making memories under the stars, here’s my travel list for 2023!
Visit a cultural capital
Are you looking to immerse yourself in a completely different culture and learn about a different way of life? Open air markets, bars and museums as far as the eye can see are waiting for you!
data forex Collected indicates these are the top 10 cultural capitals for 2023:
- EdinburghAnd Scotland
- Lisbon, Portugal
- Tokyo, Japan
- Dublin, Ireland
- New York, USA
- Sydney, Australia
- Dubai United Arab Emirates
- Montreal Canada
- Munich, Germany
- Bangkok, Thailand
Take a solo trip
Going on a solo trip is a rite of passage. IIt is a unique way to travel and you can experience a destination on your own terms and schedule.
You can see what you want, eat where you want, and you’ll be able to meet locals along the way. It’s a great way to boost your confidence and see the world, all at the same time.
K Solo travelerI’ve learned a lot about myself and the world, when I’ve traveled to destinations on my own.
If the idea of going solo on an international trip seems a bit daunting – go small! Check out a nearby state or county and find out the dates.
Travel to a destination from a movie or TV show
For film and TV buffs, have you ever thought about traveling to the location of one of your favorite shows or movies?
- Harry Potter: As you know, I’m a huge Harry Potter fan – and there are many Harry Potter filming locations in the UK!
- Lord of the rings: For those who’d rather spend days exploring The Shire, there is a full Lord of the Rings tour New Zealand.
- game of thrones: Game of Thrones will have you wandering all over the place Europefrom Iceland to scotland Croatia.
- white lotus: And lately, if you’ve been dreaming of staying at a White Lotus property (except for all… the horrible stuff), Four Seasons Hotel San Domenico Palace is the place it was filmed in Sicily!





Use points to fly for free
I’m a big believer in getting credit card points to work for you and using the points to fly for free!
You’ve flown first class with Emirates, booked economy class round-trip flights across the country and business class round-trip flights around the world. I’ve even booked week-long rental cars for epic road trips.
I didn’t pay for any of it. All of these were reserved “for free” with credit card points.
This isn’t something to brag about — it’s a wake-up call. If you’re not into travel rewards credit cards, now’s the time to get started! Travel reward credit card Points are a game changer.
While the points-and-miles game may seem too murky and almost too good to be true, I’ve created some guides on how to demystify the process, including examples of when I redeemed points, how I did it, and how much it’s saved me.
here How do I travel the world for free with credit card points? Here’s my A beginner’s guide to using points and miles.
Visit a national park
The amount of amazing national parks we have in North America is a blessing.
from Rocky Mountain National Park to Banff to YellowstoneAnd beyond, you can spend a lifetime Explore the most impressive national parks And you still don’t get around to seeing them all.
Not only are national parks some of the most stunning and stunning natural wonders in the world, but they also provide a much needed escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Whether you are a keen hiker, wildlife enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, there is a national park out there for you.
Rent a vacation home
Traveling as a family or with a group of friends can be a wonderful and memorable experience, but finding the right accommodation can often be challenging. This is why renting a vacation home is the perfect solution.
Rent a vacation home It offers a number of advantages over a hotel stay (don’t get me wrong, I like goodness the hotel stay…), but the ‘home away from home’ atmosphere can be very inviting!
A place where you and your traveling companions can relax and feel at ease in your own private space.
With separate bedrooms, fully equipped kitchen and living spaces, you can cook meals together, enjoy movie nights and quality time together without feeling cramped or closed off.
In addition, vacation homes are often more spacious and offer more privacy than hotel rooms. They often have outside areas to grill, relax and play games, which can be a great way for everyone to bond and have fun together.
Find your perfect holiday home!
Go on a girls’ trip
There’s no better way to bond with your closest friends and recharge your batteries than on a girls’ trip. And in 2023, there’s no better time to plan one!
Taking a girls’ trip allows you to escape from the daily routine and indulge in a much needed down time with your best friend. You’ll have the chance to catch up, make new memories, and create a sense of sisterhood that will last a lifetime.
From exploring new destinations to trying new activities and enjoying pampering treatments, there is something for everyone on a girls’ trip. It’s a chance to let your hair down, relax, and have some fun, without the distractions and responsibilities of everyday life.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both, a girls’ trip can provide a fresh perspective and help you gain a new appreciation for life.





Go to a spa
Taking a wellness trip is a great way to prioritize your physical and mental health and rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit. Why not make this year the year you prioritize and invest in a healthy vacation?
A wellness trip can take many forms, from yoga retreats and spa vacations to fitness and adventure excursions. The options are endless and can be tailored to your personal interests and needs.
Here are some great places to go for a relaxing trip:
- Bali, IndonesiaBali is known for its stunning landscapes and rich culture, but it is also a haven for wellness seekers. From yoga and meditation sessions to detoxing and spa treatments, Bali has everything you need to calm your mind and body.
- Costa Rica: This Central American paradise is the ultimate destination for adventure and wellness. With its lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and active volcanoes, Costa Rica is perfect for those who love to stay active while immersing themselves in nature.
- Tulum, Mexico: Tulum is a beautiful and bohemian seaside city known for its stunning beaches and laid-back atmosphere. It is a great destination for those looking to relax, recharge and enjoy a variety of wellness experiences, from yoga and meditation to spa treatments and healthy eating.
Do you want to find the ultimate relaxation place for you? find Perfect hotel To rest, reset and renew so you can come back feeling refreshed.
host your own Wellness trip with friends is another option to consider.
This allows you to tailor your trip to meet your specific needs and create an itinerary that matches your group’s interests and goals. You can rent a vacation home, plan group activities, and even hire a health coach to help guide you on your journey.
Go diving
Some of the best destinations on the planet are located below sea level. Why not experience the beauty of deep blue afterward with an adventure at sea?
If you’re ready to dig deeper, consider learning how to scuba dive. Admittedly, I was a little nervous to take the lead myself, but it was worth it. Getting Diving certificate It opened a whole new world to me.
Go on an African safari
I absolutely believe that going on a safari in Africa is one of the top things on any bucket list! from exploration Gondwana Game Reserve with me TBA Escapes Tour To head deep into the bushes Botswana And Kenya– It’s an experience that never gets old.
One of my favorite things about living in it Cape town It was an opportunity to explore so many parts of Africa. from South Africa To Kenya and beyond, there is nothing more attractive than experiencing wildlife in its natural habitat.
While safari is not known as a budget activity (read here what you should do Budget for safari), it is a worthwhile experience. Take a look at this A guide to going on an African safari For more insight!
If you weren’t already in the Safari in AfricaMake it your goal for 2023!





Travel to a remote island
Traveling to remote islands can provide a unique experience that differs from the more common tourist destinations.
Some reasons to travel to a remote island:
- Unspoiled Nature: Remote islands are often less developed and less densely populated, making them ideal destinations for nature lovers who want to experience pristine landscapes, beaches, and wildlife.
- Adventure Opportunities: Consider unique outdoor activities such as hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking, which can be more challenging and rewarding than what you might find in a more touristy area. However, keep in mind that because the destination is remote, it may not have the typical tourist infrastructure or offices to book into (not a bad thing, just something to consider!).
- Cultural Experiences: Visiting these islands can give you an opportunity to learn about different customs, traditions, and ways of life.
- Peace and Solitude: Whether you are looking for a quiet getaway or a chance to reconnect with yourself, a remote island can be the perfect destination to disconnect in quiet solitude.
You may want to add these islands to your travel bucket list:
- Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
- Fiji
- Palawan, Philippines
- Bora Bora, French Polynesia
- Havelock Island, India
And there you have it people! Your travel bucket list for 2023.
What’s on your travel bucket list for this year? Let me know in the comments below!
This post was sponsored by Expedia. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed in this post are entirely mine.