Where to travel in 2023 — part two

We whet your appetite for adventure in Where to travel in 2023 - part one and we’re back with a second course of destination suggestions. Our goal remains the same: sharing the best places you can visit in 2023 that focus not just on affordability and life-changing experiences for you but strong social impact for the people you visit. The world is a much better place when your travel helps local communities rebound and flourish so let’s go!

1: Japan

While not typically seen as an affordable travel destination, the yen dropping by 25 percent makes it one of the best times to save money on the ground. We’ve seen a 65 percent increase in 2023 bookings as the land of the rising sun finally opens up to travellers. Hokkaido is likely to be a popular spot to learn about indigenous Ainu culture at Upopoy, the new National Ainu Museum and Park complex that opened in 2020.

Get there: Our 11-day Backroads of Japan tour from Tokyo to Kyoto is priced from $4,799pp for an 11-day trip that spends time at Hagi Community Homestay. This G for Good project connects Hagi’s ageing population with travellers to share local history and customs while enjoying home-cooked meals with your hosts.

2: Turkey

Impacted by recent events, Turkey is still poised for a strong comeback with a 139 percent increase in bookings for 2023 travel. Affordable and always a crowd-pleaser, it’s a solid choice for travellers wanting to make their money go further and to the right places. With plenty to do, dramatic scenery, and fascinating history, Turkey offers opportunities to interact with local people away from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul. The food is fantastic and — best of all — comes at very low prices.

Get there: Our Best of Turkey trip is priced from $1,349pp for an eight-day trip from Istanbul return and visits the çöp(m)adam handicraft cooperation in the charming seaside town of Ayvalik. All products are made out of recycled goods and your purchases directly benefit local women employed in the workshop.

3: Morocco

Another destination offering excellent value on the ground — as well as trips at an excellent price point — is Morocco, which is seeing a 29 percent increase in booking globally for 2023. Forever photogenic and with easy access from European hubs, we’ve launched seven new Morocco tours for 2023. It’s a great add-on from other regional hubs or simply as a long weekend chock full of fresh experiences.

Get there: Our new four-day Mt Toubkal Weekend Trek is priced from $549pp from Marrakech return. On this trip you’ll pass through Berber villages where you can buy handicrafts and textiles and support Berber chefs who cook for your group on the climb.

4: Mexico

We’ve got more good things growing in this Central American haven too with nine new tours. Mexico is an increasingly popular spot following the pandemic with bookings rising by 46 percent. With its mix of activities, great food, and fun vibe, it’s perfect for young people wanting a taste of the country without the crowds. We get you away to more undiscovered locations to mingle with more local people.

Get there: Our 14-day Viva Mexico: Ancient Ruins & the Mayan Riviera trip is priced from $1,899pp travelling from Mexico City to Tulum. As part of the adventure, you’ll visit the Alebrijes Artisan Community to learn more about how Alebrijes figurines integrated into Oaxacan/Mexican folklore.

5: Vietnam

Late to reopen but picking up speed, Vietnam is a great value choice for families looking for fun-filled adventures. With tasty food, beautiful sights, and friendly people, your children get to learn about different cultures in an engaging way.

Get there: Our 12-day Vietnam Family Adventure is priced from $1,499 per adult and $1,299 per child, travelling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. You’ll visit Oodles of Noodles in Hoi An, a G for Good project supporting former street youth where you’ll watch a demo and help prep, cook, and eat different types of noodles.