After an extended stay close to home, travel plans for 2023 will likely be on your mind. To shake off the travel boredom and fatigue, why not travel somewhere a bit unexpected? From the sunny Caribbean shores of Grenada to the rolling meadows of Piacenza in Italy, plenty of hidden gems will offer a unique holiday experience. Here are 9 unusual places to travel to in 2023.
Sumba – The Bali alternative
If you’re looking for a tropical paradise but have already visited the much-loved Bali, then travel further east to Sumba instead. This little island is home to some of the most untouched and unspoiled beaches, with plenty of activities like horse riding, surfing, and snorkeling to enjoy.
Why Sumba? You might ask yourself the answer is simple: to experience a travel destination that is far from the tourist crowds but still has a lot of potential for exploration. Plus, the bonus of having plenty of affordable accommodation and food options means you can travel here on any budget.
Grenada for a unique holiday in the Caribbean
When most people think about travel in the Caribbean, their minds travel first to the bigger islands like Jamaica and Barbados. However, Grenada is an unspoiled gem begging to be discovered. From the stunning beaches of Grand Anse to the lush rainforest of Grand Etang National Park, plenty of beautiful sights and activities keep you busy on this island paradise.
No trip to Grenada is complete without a visit to St George’s Market Square, where you can sample some local cuisine or buy souvenirs from local artisans. There are also plenty of beachfront restaurants and bars dotted around that offer up Caribbean flavors with a modern twist.
The Golden Triangle of Algarve, Portugal
For those wanting something a little more continental, why not travel to the Golden Triangle of the Algarve? This corner of Portugal is perfect for nature lovers and adventurers as there are plenty of outdoor activities like mountain biking, rock climbing, surfing, and kayaking.
No visit to the Algarve would be complete without exploring its charming towns and villages scattered across this region’s picturesque coastline. From historical sites such as Silves Castle to quaint cafes in Lagos Old Town, you’ll find plenty of exciting things to do here.
Piacenza: A Hidden Gem in Northern Italy
If you’re looking for a unique travel destination in Europe, look at Piacenza in northern Italy. Italy’s hidden gem is an under-the-radar travel destination with plenty of cultural attractions to explore, delicious cuisine, and stunning scenery.
From exploring the historic Piazza Cavalli, surrounded by baroque architecture, to taking a stroll around the city’s parks and gardens, you’ll find plenty of charming sights here. Plus, let’s remember its famous food markets offering fresh produce from the local areas – something worth checking out.
Avignon, Nice’s Little Sister
For a truly unique travel experience, travel to Avignon in France. Home to tourist favorites like the Palais des Papes, this city is one of Europe’s most interesting destinations. You can explore the city’s cobbled streets, discover its hidden gems, or enjoy the view from one of many outdoor cafes.
The historical center also boasts many fascinating churches, cathedrals, and a Museo Calvet in the old town. Plus, you can travel to nearby villages such as Les Baux-de-Provence, known for its ancient ruins and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Asturias: Spain’s Cheese Capital
For something a little different, travel to Asturias in northwest Spain for an adventure unlike any other. This part of the country is home to some of the best traditional Spanish food, including lots of delicious cheeses – hence, it is known as Spain’s cheese capital.
Other activities you can enjoy here include exploring the ancient towns of Gijon and Oviedo, discovering the stunning scenery of Picos de Europa National Park, or simply taking a stroll along the coastline.
Whether you travel to Sumba for a Bali alternative, Grenada for a unique holiday in the Caribbean, the Golden Triangle of Algarve, Piacenza in northern Italy, Avignon in France, or Asturias for Spain’s cheese capital – travel in 2023 promises to be an unforgettable experience.
