Summer 2023 is preparing for a massive influx of tourists. Globally, international arrivals have already reached 80% of pre-pandemic levels in the first quarter of 2023, and it is expected that half of the northern hemisphere will have a successful summer season, according to the United Nations World Tourism Organization.
This means that planning a summer vacation this year may pose a challenge for travelers due to the rapid depletion of flights to many destinations and the imposition of hefty fees by some airlines on ticket prices.
If you are still considering planning a summer vacation, act quickly and take the following destinations into consideration:
Madrid, Spain
Madrid is considered by Jack Ezon, the founder and managing partner of “EMBARK Beyond,” a luxury travel consultancy, as the most underrated European capital. Ezon said that the city boasts a vibrant food scene, fantastic shopping, and is also the “perfect base” for exploring other famous Spanish destinations such as Toledo, Segovia, and Seville.
New York City
One of the highlights of New York City this summer is the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the birth of hip-hop music in the city, which took place on August 11, 1973. The celebration of this milestone includes exhibitions at the Bronx Terminal Market, the New York Public Library, the Museum of the City of New York, the Caribbean Cultural Center, the African Diaspora Institute, and the Queens Public Library.
Cape Town, South Africa
Many consider Cape Town to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with great value compared to crowded and expensive summer holiday destinations in Europe and the Mediterranean. It is known for its world-class dining experiences, wine farm tours, opportunities for paragliding, swimming with seals, and kayaking alongside penguins.
Piedmont Region, Italy
Instead of visiting the crowded Amalfi Coast in Italy, it is better to head to Piedmont, according to Jean Tencer, another travel advisor from “EMBARK Beyond.” Tencer confirmed that the region “has everything, from luxurious accommodations, ancient castles, Michelin-starred restaurants, and beautiful scenery.”
Los Angeles, California
“Sunset Strip” is celebrating a significant anniversary, the centennial of the famous “Hollywood” sign, which was erected in 1923 for $21,000 by Howard Chandler, a publisher from the Los Angeles Times. Chandler erected it as a billboard for his upscale real estate development, “Hollywoodland.” To enjoy free views of this sign, you can stroll in Griffith Park, Runyon Canyon, Bronson Canyon, or pass by the reservoir at Lake Hollywood Park for a direct view.
Vienna, Austria
According to “Virtuoso,” a global network of travel agencies specializing in experiential and luxury travel, Vienna is getting ready to become “one of the leading destinations in Europe” as it is a multicultural city with indoor and outdoor experiences. This year marks the 150th anniversary of the Vienna World Exposition in 1873, the 200th anniversary of the famous glass manufacturing company “Lobmeyr” in Vienna, and the 300th anniversary of the opening of the luxurious “Belvedere” museum.
Malta
This island off the coast of Italy offers a unique blend of Mediterranean and Arab cultures, being the home of three UNESCO World Heritage sites, including rock temples dating back to the fourth millennium BC. This archipelago also provides opportunities to explore the food scene, nightlife, sailing, and numerous religious sites. Parts of the famous TV series “Game of Thrones” were filmed here, and fans can visit those locations.
Thailand
Thailand offers an opportunity to escape the “crowded tourist destinations in Europe,” according to Deborah Giles from “EMBARK Beyond” company.
Prominent attractions in this destination include beach resorts like Koh Samui and Phuket, the bustling capital city of Bangkok, and the famous northern province of Chiang Rai.