Every summer, you can expect to pinpoint the season’s trending travel destinations with just a quick scroll through your social media feed. Before the influx of content, we asked travel PR pros where they expect people to head this summer, from domestic hotspots to international vacations. Read on for a glimpse at this year’s top destinations, and why they deserve a spot on your list.
Peru
Glen Fotografo
Dubbed a leading culinary and cultural destination by the most recent World Travel Awards, Peru has something for everyone. The best way to see it all is with luxury tour operator Kuoda Travel, which curates each tour based on interests like food, wellness, outdoors and adventure. As such, visitors can experience every region of the Amazon rainforest, explore Machu Picchu, eat their way through the country’s best BBQ and beyond.
Amalfi Coast
Have a pink and picturesque experience on the Amalfi Coast at Palazzo Avino, a five-star hotel built in a 12th century private villa. Sisters Mariella and Attilia Avino are behind the Ravello property, which features seven suites, a spa and Michelin-starred Rossellinis restaurant. Stop by the super-curated Pink Closet boutique and show off your new styles at Clubhouse by the Sea, which offers beach and pool access in the small town of Marmorata (just a 15 minute drive away).
South Africa
Conor Mccreedy
Up for a South African adventure? Cheetah Plains offers an exclusive-use luxury villa and sustainable safari experience nestled in South Africa’s most celebrated wildlife area, the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve. In addition to the eco-luxury safari experience guests return for, new offerings for 2023 include a private art tour and art buying experience with illustrious South African artist Conor Mccreedy. It’s worth noting that Cheetah Plains operates 100% off-grid using solar power and electric land vehicles – a first for the Nature Reserve.
Toronto
Toronto Music Garden
There’s tons going on in Toronto this summer, making it the perfect destination for individuals and families alike. Explore the many events and festivals going on this season via Now Playing Toronto, hit Michelin-recommended restaurants and bars with World’s 50 Best accolades, plus enjoy the great outdoors in the city’s unique green spaces, like the Toronto Music Garden.
Costa Rica
Hotel Belmar
Whether it’s your first time or you’re a repeat visitor, experience Costa Rica in a unique way via Hotel Belmar. The award-winning carbon-neutral boutique hotel in Monteverde has something for everyone, from foodies to nature lovers and adventure seekers. Combine all three when you enjoy a treetop picnic above the forest canopy at SAVIA, the property’s private reserve.
Los Cabos, Mexico
Villa La Valencia
Get away to Villa La Valencia, an exclusive beach resort complete with elegant suites, daily excursions and plenty of nighttime entertainment. Ideal for couples’ vacations and family trips alike, the Mexican-owned and operated resort offers unique experiences like curated tequila tastings as well as Cabo’s largest lazy river. You'll never get bored with their four restaurants, five bars and the Azul wellness spa.
Greece
W Costa Navarino
If you prefer getting comfortable in one spot rather than island hopping, Costa Navarino has everything you need. Home to four luxury resorts including the newly opened W Costa Navarino and the family friendly Westin Resort, guests have plenty of accommodations and dining venues (20, to be exact) to choose from. Spend the days doing water sports like paddleboarding and scuba diving, or hit some balls at the local award-winning golf course.
Cyprus
Petra tou Romiou
If you’re looking for something different than your typical beach vacation, add Cyprus to your list. The idyllic beaches, with their glittering blue waters, are perfect for relaxing, swimming in dive sites or partaking in water sports. A must-visit while you’re there: Petra tou Romiou, also known as the birthplace of Aphrodite; the local myth is that any person who swims around the Aphrodite Rock will be blessed with eternal beauty.
United Kingdom
Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire
Seeing as Travel + Leisure named the United Kingdom 2023's destination of the year, expect London and the surrounding countryside to be hotspots this summer. Four Seasons hotels have multiple locales for you to experience both. Enjoy the Crown Jewels Afternoon Tea or cocktails on the brand new Bloom rooftop at Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square, or opt for the Town and Country package, which includes a stay at both Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane and Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire to discover the city’s royal heritage as well as the tranquility and nature of the countryside.
London
The Londoner
There's lots to do in London during the summer, including events such as Trooping the Colour, which celebrates the queen’s birthday, and the Wimbledon championship. A member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ Legend Collection, The Londoner is located in the heart of the West End's theater district, making it ideal for those trying to take in all the local attractions and seasonal happenings. The 'super boutique’ hotel features six concept eateries and bars, three guest-only parlour rooms at The Residence, a wellness retreat, two screening rooms and more.
Nevis
Nevis Tourism Authority
If you prefer an empty beach to a crowded one, book a trip to Nevis, one of the most unspoiled islands in the Caribbean (aka the ultimate escape). Hike the 3,232 ft. Nevis Peak, explore sugar plantations and historical landmarks, visit thermal hot springs and enjoy cocktails at a variety of beach bars. Pro tip: time your trip to align with one of their annual events, like the Nevis Mango Festival, Cross Channel Swim or the island’s Nevis Culturama Festival.
Capri
Capri Palace Jumeriah
Capri is a go-to summer spot, and this year, visitors will experience some newness amidst the usual stunning beaches across the coastline. Check out the newly reopened hotels and beach clubs, and make it a point to visit Zuma’s newest Italian summer pop-up, located in the picturesque town of Anacapri. Zuma Capri is perched along the cliffside rooftop of the Capri Palace Jumeriah hotel, providing wide-reaching views of the Sorrentine Peninsula and Tyrrhenian Sea.
Milan
Piazza del Quadrilatero, Portrait Milano
With its range of architectural styles, artistic offerings and unexpected details like private art galleries, shops and restaurants, Milan is no longer considered a layover city, but is one of Europe's hottest travel destinations this summer. One of Milan's top hotel openings this year has been Portrait Milano, located in the former Archiepiscopal Seminary, Europe’s oldest seminary, built in 1564. The newest hotel in the Lungarno Collection, owned by the Ferragamo family, the property features 73 rooms designed in a classic style reminiscent of traditional Milanese residences with an added touch of contemporary details. Portrait Milano showcases a range of exceptional amenities, including a relaxed dining option called 10_11, a captivating cocktail bar, an outdoor garden and a picturesque loggia.
Puerto Rico
Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Turquoise waters and lush landscapes are calling from Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. The serene and luxurious estate offers relaxing amenities and adventurous ones alike; guests can participate in Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ambassadors of the Environment, an active, hands-on experience that offers activities for all ages, or unwind in the award-winning Spa Botánico, a five-acre sanctuary set amidst a pineapple field that combines indigenous traditions and Puerto Rican ingredients to offer holistic well-being experiences that rejuvenate both the body and soul.
Bonaire
Bonaire
Discover the world’s first Blue Destination this summer. Unplug on the Dutch Caribbean island Bonaire, which has no street lights, but plenty of flamingo friends. This summer’s activities include the second annual Rum Week June 12-17, and the first annual Yoga & Wellness Festival in partnership with the Bindu Yoga & Healing Center June 19-25.
Kakheti
Lopota Lake Resort & Spa
Wine lovers will add Kakheti to the top of their travel to-do lists, as the eastern Georgia region is considered the birthplace of winemaking dating back 8,000 years ago. More than 200 wine varieties are described in this region, which is the hometown locavore Georgian grape varieties, including Rkatsiteli, Kakhetian Mtsvane, Khikhvi, Kisi and Saperavi. The newly revamped Lopota Lake Resort & Spa is a highlight, and is complete with an on-property wine chateau, multiple restaurants, a horse stable and vineyards that is home to the Châteu Buera, the property's onsite winery and event space.
Bermuda
Bermuda Tourism Authority
Traveling to Bermuda from NYC just got a lot easier, thanks to direct flights from LGA to BDA. No matter where you’re located, though, Bermuda is worth a visit. Lounge on the pink sand beaches, snorkel in the blue waters and take in art at the special Princess Hamilton Hotel (think: Warhol, Herring, Picaso, Kaws). Golfers will also find a haven here, and foodies will dine on fresh seafood at both local spots and upscale ones.
Western Australia
Tourism Western Australia
In addition to being a bucket-list destination to visit any time of year, there’s plenty going on this summer in Western Australia. The region has multiple festivals planned, including the Karijini Experience, a diverse program of authentic arts and cultural experiences designed to connect people to the aboriginal community and the landscape of Karijini National Park. Manjimup’s Truffle Kerfuffle has grown to become one of the most well-known truffle festivals in the world, and is returning this June for the first time since 2019. The destination will also be hosting soccer matches for this summer’s FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 in the capital city of Perth. Lastly, Western Australia’s wildflower collection is one of the largest on Earth, with more than 12,000 species and over 60% found nowhere else.
Barcelona
Little Beach House Barcelona
Do your Spanish summer right with Soho House Barcelona and Little Beach House Barcelona. Located in a striking 18th century building in the Gothic quarter of Barcelona, Soho House Barcelona has all the facilities and amenities you expect, plus views over the Port Vell marina. Escape the city with a short drive to Little Beach House in the fishing village of Garraf, a small oasis and the ultimate unplugged retreat.
Monte Carlo
Hotel de Paris
Breathtaking in the summer but idyllic any time of year, Monte-Carlo is the jewel at the heart of the French Riviera, and there are few hotels quite as luxurious as the Hotel de Paris to complement a visit to the area. From Michelin-starred dining venues, to world-class spa treatments, and endless views of the Mediterranean, the Hotel de Paris is a destination in its own right.
Honolulu
Prince Waikiki
Hawaii is always a good idea, and this summer, Prince Waikiki in Honolulu is your one-stop shop for relaxation and entertainment. The Four-Diamond property in the heart of Honolulu offers all the resort staples, from culinary moments to specialty cocktails. There’s much culture to be explored, too; every Wednesday, guests at Prince Waikiki are invited to create their own custom papale nui – a hand woven coconut palm hat, in partnership with Cocokealohi. Guests are also invited to outdoor fitness classes in the Hawaiian breeze, and a rooftop escape with stunning views of the night sky for Cosmics x Cocktails. Join Stargazers of Hawaii for a rare view of the natural wonders of the Hawaiian sky through the lens of a large telescope and sip on your favorite poolside cocktail while witnessing this summer’s celestial events.
Atlantic City
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa
Atlantic City is becoming a staple summer destination in its own right, with multi-million dollar renovations taking its iconic hotels and nightlife to the next level. Case in point: Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa will complete a $55 million remodel and rebrand of its new MGM Tower, and Spiegelworld is opening its next live entertainment sensation inspired by Atlantic City called "The Hook," plus its Italian-American-Psychedelic restaurant, Superfrico. Not to mention Waterpark, the world's largest indoor water park opening at Showboat.
Philadelphia
Mann Center for the Performing Arts
Philly is a go-to city this summer, with plenty of historic and fun sites and attractions to visit. Set your home base at Loews Philadelphia Hotel for easy access to seasonal favorites like the grass-covered, tree-lined rooftop park at Sunset Social; an open-air performance at the Mann Center for the Performing Arts; or a picnic in Rittenhouse Square Park.
Chicago
Mordecai
Chicago comes out of hibernation in the summer, and the streets come alive with locals and tourists alike. A few must-visit destinations in the city include Doc B's Restaurant for a refuel between stops when shopping in the city's Gold Coast neighborhood; Mordecai for pre- or post-Cubs game drinks; Frontier for their monthly Smoke Sessions (where Chef Brian Jupiter collaborates with local chefs to provide guests with a special menu) and François Frankie for some French-inspired cuisine before an evening at the theater. Relax and recover from your activities with a chill Sunday at the Soho House Chicago rooftop pool.
Emerald Coast
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
Venture off the beaten path and explore Florida’s Emerald Coast. A great place to start: the 2,400-acre Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, which comprises over 70 charming neighborhoods. The resort, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, offers tons of programming, from fireworks displays to live music. Visitors can shop, dine and play at the charming pedestrian village, The Village of Baytowne Wharf, or enjoy countless recreational activities with more than seven miles of beaches and pristine bayfront, four championship golf courses, 15 world-class tennis courts, 20 swimming pools, plus a marina, fitness center and luxury spa.
El Paso
Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park
For summer travelers looking for the perfect quintessential destination, El Paso is rich in American Wild West history, stunning views of the Franklin Mountains and endless outdoor adventures. Treat yourself to a luxe stay at the historic Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park, set in the heart of El Paso’s vibrant Las Plazas Arts District. On property, guests can enjoy the largest collection of agave spirits in Texas at Ámbar Restaurante and delight in stunning views of El Paso at La Perla– a rooftop bar and lounge inspired by former-resident Elizabeth Taylor. Head over to the famed Rocketbuster Boots, the custom boots beloved by Kendrick Lamar, Leon Bridges, Sylvester Stallone and more for the ultimate Southern experience.
Kennebunkport
Hidden Pond Resort Tree House Spa, Heidi Kirn Photography
Connect with nature in Kennebunkport, with its enchanted woods and tranquil energy. Enjoy all the area has to offer at Hidden Pond, a private luxury resort that’s part wilderness retreat, part gated community and part adult summer camp. The eco-chic resort comprises exclusive cottages, bungalows and Treetop Lodges perfect for all types of travelers. Enjoy therapy walks led by a Certified Forest Therapy Guide and daily outdoor yoga and meditation classes, as well as the resort’s Meet the Gardener series, which allows guests to get hands-on and learn about planting and maintaining their garden at home while snipping fresh flora to create a one-of-a-kind arrangement.
