2023 is the year that global travel is expected to finally reach pre-pandemic levels as countries ditch the last of their Covid-19 restrictions and the world returns to the “new normal”. Based on the latest travel trends, Sure Travel predicts that these 10 destinations will be sought after in 2023.
Cyprus is, on the whole, more affordable than other popular Mediterranean destinations, and it can match neighbouring islands in terms of attractions.
From a rich cultural history, endless choices of beaches, gorgeous scuba diving, Miami-style vibes in larger towns like Limassol and a smorgasbord of Cypriot food with Greek and Middle Eastern influences, the island offers something for every type of traveller.
This is our hot-pick for sustainability minded travellers. New Zealand adopted a pledge called the Tiaki Promise a few years back, which in Maori can be broadly translated to caring for people and places.
Practices like this have positioned New Zealand at the forefront of sustainable, environmentally friendly travel that promotes indigenous tourism businesses and experiences
While Peru is a long-haul mission for South Africans, it’s extremely affordable once you land. And in terms of a range of tourism experiences, Peru seriously delivers with historical highlights such as Machu Picchu juxtaposed against the crowded nightclubs of the capital Lima.
The gastronomic experience won’t disappoint either, nor will Lima’s progressive art scene.
Greece is one of few global destinations that surpassed pre-pandemic tourism numbers in 2022. While that’s good new for the tourism-dependent country, for crowd-weary travellers it means the popular hotspots of Mykonos and Santorini will probably be heaving with tourists in 2023.
Should that make you cross Greece off your travel list for 2023? Definitely not! Rather head to quieter destinations of the country, such as Milos, Paros, Corfu and Crete, which offer Insta-worthy experiences equal to those of the two big islands but without busloads of tourists.
The opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum in 2023 will no doubt draw thousands more tourists to Cairo. The museum has been under construction for more than 10 years and is set to break records as the world’s largest archaeological collection.
Beyond the archaeological highlights of Cairo and the Great Pyramids, Egypt offers exceptional beach holidays and scuba diving experiences, making it an ideal combo-destination holiday.
With Turkish Airlines offering direct and well-priced flights from South Africa, we expect Turkey to rebound as a top destination for both single destination and stopover travellers.
From the bustling, culturally eclectic city of Istanbul to the beautiful beaches of Antalya and the fairy-tale landscape of Cappadocia, Turkey is a traveller’s delight. Best of all, it’s budget-friendly for Rand-carrying travellers.
The Thai capital is pulling out its A-game after fully reopening to tourists. Bangkok is fast becoming the world’s top foodie destination, thanks to innovative chefs opening up experimental fine-dining restaurants in the city alongside the renowned street food and foodie markets.
Bangkok also has no shortage of luxury hotels at affordable prices, providing a deluxe base to explore the city’s hip art scene, cultural attractions and endless shopping.
Malta is another underrated gem in the Mediterranean. It is affordable, friendly, multi-cultural and rich with natural and historical highlights, boasting three Unesco World Heritage Sites.
What more could any traveller in 2023 want?
The Covid-19 lockdowns made many intrepid travellers realise that the opportunity to visit their ultimate bucket-list destination won’t necessarily always be there. This may be why travel to Iceland has surged since restrictions were lifted.
It’s still a relatively pricey destination, but for those who have the Northern Lights, Reykjavik and the infamous Blue Lagoon on their bucket-list, there’s no time like the present!
Jaw-dropping coastlines, national parks dense with greenery and natural water features, historical sites and world-class resorts. Croatia offers all this and more in abundance, all at very affordable prices.
As an added bonus, the country’s revamped rail and road network makes travelling easy, comfortable and affordable.
Contact your nearest Sure Travel agency to book your Top 10 travel destination for 2023. Or visit our online portal to book direct.