Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2023

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In its 19 th year Lonely Planet's Best in Travel hotlist, voted for by their global community of staff, local writers, and publishing partners, provides expert insight into lesser-known destinations and new takes on popular places. New cycling trails, train and flight services making destinations more accessible, bids for UNESCO world heritage status raising the profile of un-sung locations, 'wow' factor and ongoing commitment to sustainability, community and diversity have all contributed towards this year's list.

Swap the Bosnian city of Mostar’s stifling summer heat for a balmy cultural getaway in spring. Visit the colorful Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque for its panoramic views of the city. Wander along cobblestone alleys (relatively crowd-free at this time of year) to find bazaars selling everything from ceramics to textiles and traditional art. Then head down to the River Neretva, where you can witness locals test gravity’s limits by diving from the Stari Most bridge. Maybe you’ll join in? If not, you can enjoy front-row seats at a riverbank cafe, Turkish coffee in hand. Europe’s night trains Istria realised many years ago what a goldmine it was sitting on, and developed an excellent infrastructure for active and gourmet holidays,” says travel writer Mary Novakovich. “You'll find routes throughout the peninsula for walking and cycling that take in the region's wineries, olive oil producers and some friendly farmstays — known as agroturizam.” From camel rides through the Arabian desert to bronzing yourself on the world-famous Palm, holidays to Dubai never disappoint. This city is an idyllic desert at its heart, on which a glorious cosmopolitan city sits atop. From Downtown Dubai where visitors marvel at the magnificent Burj Khalifa, to the private beaches there’s certainly no shortage of things to do in the so-called City of Gold. And no Dubai holiday will be complete without a spot of shopping – whether in one of the world-class air-conditioned malls or at the traditional flea markets along the Creek. If visitors to France fancy something other than the Olympics, the region of Normandy is hosting the Normandy Impressionist Festival from March to September next year to celebrate 150 years of Impressionism. The event will bring visitors into the heart of a 19th-century movement that turned art on its head with its radical, soulful focus on outdoor scenes and the effects of light. The program includes open-air theater performances and dance cafes, art exhibitions and workshops, plus forest walks, stargazing, sound- and-light shows and romantic picnics straight out of a Renoir. Spain Among them, bustling cities, spectacular deserts, captivating histories, beaches edged by jungle and vast landscapes that stretch to the horizon.Whether you prefer bus, train, bicycle and or your own legs, getting around Kent couldn’t be easier. A great network of sustainable trails, paths and train lines run from town to town, leaving you with more time to experience the sheer beauty of Kent’s countryside, and a clear conscious about your carbon footprint.

For those seeking a trekking experience away from snowy summits, the Anti Atlas Mountains in Morocco are perfect in March, when you can embrace tranquil hikes and the season of wildflowers and blooming trees. Don’t miss the annual almond blossom festival in Tafraoute, held in February or March to coincide with the vibrant flowering and harvest of almond trees. Uzbekistan It’s always best to avoid the rain-drenched monsoon season from May to September, unless you’re heading to arid Ladakh, in the far north. BeninLonely Planet also singles out the National Trust’s project to turn a disused railway bridge into a High Line-style park called Castlefield Viaduct. Travelers will love Chile in November. After the hush of winter months, Patagonia awakens to the vibrant hues of spring, while the northern regions gradually shed their chill, offering a respite from the dampness of previous seasons. This also marks the ideal time to explore the picturesque coastal towns and desert landscapes of the north, a month before the busy tourist season swings into action. Swahili Coast, Tanzania From beachcombing to village-hopping, volcano-climbing and indulging in fresh, lip-tingling ceviche, Nicaragua’s pleasures are plentiful. And in 2024, the country will offer visitors something even more special: it’s a prime viewing destination for the total eclipse on April 8. Observe it from atop a volcano for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Wales Each year, Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel lists start with nominations from its community of staff, writers, bloggers and publishing partners. The nominations are whittled down by its panel of travel experts to just 30 destinations. Each is chosen for its topicality, unique experiences, “wow” factor, and ongoing commitment to sustainability, community and diversity. Lonely Planet has revealed its annual list of Best in Travel with a roster of 30 top destinations recommended to visit in 2023