2023 Destinations to watch…
Choosing a holiday destination can be difficult, with many of us falling into the trap of booking the same place every year. Been there, done that. If 2023 has got you wanting to try somewhere new, then these are the top up-and-coming destinations. Although these destinations have been around for a long time, there seems to be more of a buzz around them this year, with more families choosing them for their summer holiday. These are my 2023 destinations to watch…
Turkey
Turkey is the first of my 2023 destinations to watch, but it’s one of those destinations that can divide opinion. People seem to either love it and visit often, or hate it. But with daily flights from most UK airports, it’s one of my most requested holiday destinations. Turkey offers so much that there’s bound to be something for everyone!
Try one of these top Turkish destinations…
Dalaman Area
Dalaman has been the go-to area of Turkey for holidays for years. It’s known as the Turquoise Coast with miles of beautiful beaches, and it’s also home to the Blue Lagoon. This was one of the first Turkish destinations that opened up to holidaymakers and has undergone massive transformation over the years. The area has something for everyone with many of the resorts offering family entertainment, beautiful beaches, and nightlife. There are also many historic towns and ruins to explore for those looking for something a little more cultural. Visit Kayakoy, the ghost town which was abandoned in the 1920s. If shopping is your thing, then head to the markets of Hisaronu or Fethiye. If you’re travelling with the family, there are multiple waterparks and theme parks to check out in the area.
Top Resorts: Marmaris, Olu Deniz, Hisaronu, Fethiye, Ovacik
Area highlights: The Blue Lagoon at Olu Deniz. The Grand Bazaar in Marmaris. Orka World Theme Park, Hisaronu, and the mud baths in Dalyan.
Hotels to check out: Club Alize, Marmaris, Club Hotel Meri, Olu Deniz, Club Tuana, Fethiye and Hilton Dalaman Sarigerme Resort.
Antalya Area
Antalya is one of the most popular and glamorous areas for holidaymakers in Turkey with resorts to suit any taste. It’s home to the resort of Lara Beach which has been described as Turkey’s answer to Las Vegas. There are also many championship-level golf courses in the area for any golf fanatics out there. If nature and spending time outdoors is more your thing, then there are miles of sandy beaches to explore or relax on. The resort of Kemer is surrounded by a national park. Antalya also features many historical sights such as the Greek Temple of Apollo, and the Aspendos Amphitheatre where gladiators once battled it out.
Top Resorts: Lara Beach, Belek, Side and Kemer.
Area highlights: The Land of Legends Theme Park in Belek, Hadrian’s Gate, Side Old Town for shopping, Kemer National Park.
Hotels to check out: Grand Park Lara in Lara Beach. Eftalia Ocean Nr Alanya. Regnum Carya in Belek. Ali Bey Park Manavgat in Side, and NG Phaselis Bay in Kemer.
Izmir Area
Izmir is at the end of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast and is the perfect destination to mix beaches with culture. There are plenty of traditional tavernas and bazaars to explore if you would like a taste of Turkey. While in the area visit the ancient city of Ephesus. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Izmir area is full of history and historical landmarks to explore, there are also plenty of museums if that’s more your thing. If you’re a beach lover, you have to head to Ladies Beach, named because, at one time, only ladies could use this beach. There are also plenty of other beaches ranging from quiet to jam-packed with water sports and action.
Area highlights: The hot springs of Pamukkale, Dilek National Park, Aqua Fantasy Waterpark in Kusadasi,
Top Resorts: Kusadasi, Ozdere
Hotels to check out: Infinity by Yelkin Resort in Kusadasi. Aqua Fantasy Aquapark Hotel in Kusadasi. Seven Seas Sealight Elite in Kusadasi.
Bodrum Area
The resorts in the Bodrum area all have a different feel, so it’s easy to choose a resort based on what you’re looking for from your holiday. Bodrum has a city feel for travellers wanting to combine their holiday with city entertainment and shopping, while Altinkum has miles of sand for beach lovers. This region also has more authentic resorts with traditional Turkish food and ancient ruins to explore. As in other areas of Turkey, if you’re travelling with kids there are plenty of waterparks in the area. The nightlife in the area also has something for everyone. From family-friendly restaurants and bars in the resorts to the celebrity clubs of Bodrum.
Area highlights: Bodrum Castle. Visit the markets of Altinkum and Bitez. Rabbit Island in Bodrum. Take a day trip to one of the nearby Greek Islands such as Kos or Samos.
Top Resorts: Bodrum, Altinkum, Gumbet, and Turgutreis
Hotels to check out: Maxeria Blue Didyma in Akbuk. Aquasis Deluxe Resort & Spa in Altinkum. Bodrum Holiday Resort & Spa in Bodrum. Jasmin Beach Hotel in Gumbet.
Greek Islands
Next on my 2023 destinations to watch list are the Greek Islands. They have always been a popular holiday destination, but 2023 is the year of visiting some of the lesser-known Greek Islands. More airports in the UK are now offering flights to Athens which opens up a wealth of options for visiting the smaller islands. Tour operators are now offering trips to islands such as Paros, Ios, and Lefkas. The Greek Islands really do have something for everyone. Many of the larger, well-known islands such as Corfu, Crete, Rhodes, and Zante have many resorts that cater to different ages and tastes. Santorini and Mykonos are well known for their views, sunsets, and nightlife. But many of the smaller islands cater more to specific tastes. Here are a few of the islands set to be popular this year…
Ios
If you want to party but have done Mykonos… head to Ios. Thousands of young people head here every year to take advantage of the party scene. There is also a traditional side to Ios with white buildings, blue roofs, and traditional tavernas. The island also has an amazing beach scene with some busy and family-orientated, with others more remote and tucked away.
Area highlights: The nightlife on the island. The historical sites of a medieval Venetian castle and tomb where Homer may have been buried. There are 300 churches to explore on the island.
Top resorts: Ios, Mylopotas
Hotels to check out: Marcos Beach Hotel, Ios Palace Hotel, Relux Ios Design Hotel
Kalymnos
Kalymnos is known as a sponge fishing island as harvesting sea sponges once made the island rich. The island is perfect for holidaymakers who love the outdoors. It’s also popular with climbers, divers, and hikers – perfect for an action-packed getaway on a beautiful island. There are also many beaches to relax on after a busy day. It’s also easy to reach some of the other Greek islands from Kalymnos. Perfect for a day trip, or an island-hopping holiday. For foodies, there are plenty of traditional tavernas where you can sample yummy Greek dishes.
Area highlights: Visit Pothia, the main port and capital of the island. The archaeological museum of Kalymnos, Agios Savvas Monastery, and the ruin of Chrysoheria Castle.
Top resorts: Kantouni, Massouri, Myrties, Panormos
Hotels to check out: Kantouni Beach Boutique Hotel, Philoxenia Hotel in Massouri, Elena Village in Massouri
Paros
You will all have seen the photos of the stunning sunsets on the island of Santorini. But for stunning sunsets without the crowds, head to the island of Paros! Although Paros does still get busy in the summer months, crowds are like nothing of other popular nearby islands. The island has around 40 beaches to visit, many offering water sports, and there is also an aqua park. Perfect for a family day out. If you head there in July or August you could possibly catch a concert or play in the outdoor amphitheatre overlooking the sea. A truly unique experience. There are also many other festivals and events during the spring and summer months.
Area highlights: Butterfly Valley. The Environment and Cultural Park of Paros. Parikia’s Hilltop Monastery. Take a ferry ride to the island of Antiparos
Top resorts: Naussa, Paroikia,
Hotels to check out: Mr and Mrs White Paros, Paros Agnanti Hotel
Skiathos
If you’re a fan of the Mamma Mia films then a trip to Skiathos is a must! A lot of the movies were filmed on the island. Skiathos is perfect for beach lovers with over 60 to choose from ranging from family-friendly, to laid back, to full of water sports! There’s also a beach which is only reachable by boat for a relaxing day out. The island is also perfect for those who love to get outdoors on their holidays, with plenty of walking and biking trails crisscrossing the island.
Area highlights: St Nikolaos Bell Tower and the Old Port both featured in the Mamma Mia film. Lalaria beach – only accessible by boat. Monastery of Evangelistria. Bourtzi Fortress.
Top resorts: Skiathos Town, Troulos, Agia Paraskevi, Koukounaries,
Hotels to check out: Mandraki Village Hotel in Koukounaries. Skiathos Princess Resort in Agia Paraskevi. Almira Hotel in Troulos. Alkyon Hotel in Skiathos Town
If you would like to know more about the lesser-known Greek Islands, I’ve written a handy guide here.
Croatia
Whether you choose to holiday on the Croatian mainland, or one of the islands situated off the coast, Croatia is a destination that has massively grown in popularity over the last 10 years. That’s why it has its place on my 2023 destinations to watch list. Croatia is a must-visit destination for any Game of Thrones fan with plenty of sights from the TV series. For history lovers, there’s a UNESCO heritage site, Roman amphitheatres, and Venetian Palaces.
Dubrovnik
Holidays in Dubrovnik can be either active and full of exploring the Old Town or relaxing on one of the beautiful beaches. There are also plenty of islands off the coast to hop around and take in. There are plenty of shopping areas for picking up souvenirs and boutiques selling locally made traditional products. The resorts around Dubrovnik have a range of restaurants to suit all tastes, from traditional dishes to fresh fish and seafood. If you’re a fan of the series Games of Thrones, then a trip to Dubrovnik is an absolute must!
Area Highlights: Mljet National Park, Dubrovnik Cathedral, Game of Thrones tour, Korcula Old Town
Top resorts: Cavtat, Dubrovnik Old Town, Korcula Island, Orebic
Hotels to check out: Hotel Albatros, Aminess Port9 Residence, Aminess Bellevue Resort, Club Dubrovnik Sunny Hotel
Split
Split is situated on the Dalmatian Coast and has miles of sandy beaches to enjoy. There are also national parks, history, and old towns to explore in the area. There are also several islands to holiday on with beautiful beaches, walking and cycling trails, beautiful streets, and trendy restaurants. It’s a great area for nature spotting. There are some super chic hotels and bars for couples but is also a beautiful place to spend as a family. There are many family favourite hotels in the area.
Area highlights: Dalmatia Aquapark, Krka National Park, Aquarium Sibenik, Temples and churches of the area
Top resorts: Makarska, Hvar Island, Brac Island, Split Podstrana
Hotels to check out: Bluesun Hotel Neptun, Valamar Meteor Hotel, Amadria Park Hotel, Amadria Park Camping
Bulgaria
Bulgaria is a fantastic option if you’re looking to get away on a budget. It is packed with family hotels and resorts featuring water parks, kids’ clubs, activities, and some amazing all-inclusive options. If staying in a hotel or resort all day isn’t your thing, then there are plenty of options for exploring. Beautiful long sandy beaches, waterparks, and historic towns mean there’s something to suit everyone’s interests.
Sunny Beach
Sunny Beach definitely lives up to its name with beautiful Blue Flag-rated beaches and great weather. This is the most family-friendly resort in Bulgaria, but probably the best value too. There’s plenty of entertainment both day and night. From water sports, shopping, and days out during the days, and family-friendly karaoke bars and pub games at night.
Area Highlights: Action Aquapark. Erma Spa. Go-Karting. Sunny Beach Luna Park. Visit the port of Burgas just south of Sunny Beach.
Hotels to check out: Kuban Hotel, Aqua Nevis Club Hotel, Laguna Park & Aqua Club, Melia Sunny Beach
Nessebar
If you want relaxation with a bit of history to explore, then Nessebar could be a good option in Bulgaria. It’s a UNESCO-protected Old Town full of churches and little streets, but also with beautiful Blue Flag beaches and seaside cafes and restaurants.
Area Highlights: The Archaeological Museum of Nessebar, shop for treasures and handicraft shops, Aqua Paradise waterpark, Camel Park.
Hotels to check out: Sol Nessebar Resort, Festa Panorama, Sol Nessebar Palace, Aqua Paradise Resort
St Vlas
St Vlas is the calmer neighbour of Sunny Beach. It’s surrounded by mountains and features yacht-filled marinas and beach bars. There are three sandy beaches to enjoy with plenty of space for relaxing and water sports. Although St Vlas is one of the quieter resorts in the area, it’s perfect for visitors looking for a more laid-back holiday.
Area Highlights: Arena Theatre, East Beach – a quieter shingle beach.
Hotels to check out: Premier Fort, Dreams Sunny Beach Resort & Spa, Voya Beach Resort, MPM Zornitza Sands & Spa
Malta
Malta is definitely on its way back as a holiday destination with many operators extending their flights through the winter season. For such a small island, it packs in a lot with historical towns, sandy beaches, family bars and restaurants, and plenty of attractions. The island’s capital Valetta is UNESCO-listed and has beautiful gardens and mansions to explore. There are also caves and lagoons to check out. There is also the island of Gozo which you can stay on, and the tiny island of Comino for day trips.
Island highlights: Valetta, Popeye Village, Day trips to the islands, Malta 5D, the Blue Lagoon, Aquatica, Bugibba Waterpark
Top resorts: Mellieha Bay, St Julians, Qawra, St Paul’s Bay
Hotels to check out: db Seabank Resort & Spa in Mellieha Bay. Malta Marriott Hotel & Spa in St Julians. AX ODYCY in Qawra. Westin Dragonara Resort in St Julians
So there you have it, my 2023 destinations to watch. These are definitely proving popular, with excellent links from the UK, and more options opening up regularly, getting there has never been easier.
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