trip deals 2023

More From Forbes

13 ways to find the best 2023 travel deals and prices.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

There are lots of ingenious ways to travel smarter

Everyone wants travel to be easy and the best it can be for a good price.

After a bewildering summer of travel and with news that demand for travel will be high in 2023, here's how you can really make your travel money stretch that little bit further:

• When logged into your browser, if you search for the same flights over and over, the cost of those flights will rise. Search for flights in incognito mode using a private navigation window and that will not happen.
• If you're flexible in terms of specific dates and times, you'll find cheaper flights. Generally, flights that leave mid week on a Wednesday are cheaper than those departing at other times—Expedia recently reported they were as much as 15% cheaper. For Thanksgiving, Expedia says that savings of 5% can be had if you travel on the Sunday, Monday or Tuesday before and not the Wednesday. For Christmas, traveling before the 23rd can save as much as 15%.
• If you set alerts for fares you're looking for, you'll be notified immediately when the prices drop and you'll be able to book them fast—use sites such as Sitescanner or NextVacay.
• Hunt for fifth freedom flights , which can typically save you money and often take place on a better plane with better perks than your money would otherwise be able to afford. Fifth freedom flights are where an airline carries passengers to locations which are not in their base country. For example, Emirates runs from JFK New York to Milan and from Newark to Athens, before continuing onto Dubai in both cases, where the airline is based. As other airlines run these first two routes, the Emirates flight segment from the U.S. to Europe is very competitive, plus Emirates is ranked highly as one of the world's best airlines meaning that the service, the food and the plane might be better too.
• Search for fares individually even if you are traveling as a couple or a group. If you search for four tickets, the algorithms will overlook one or two cheaper tickets and just find four at the same price. Just make sure to link up separate bookings with the airline so they know you are traveling together, via an airline phone agent or your own travel agent.
• Check for one-way Hidden City flights , where your destination might be just part of a longer plane journey and therefore cheaper. For example, if heading to Paris, you could buy a ticket for a journey from Amsterdam to Milan, via Paris and get out at Paris—Skiplagged is renowned for finding these sorts of flights. Beware though, you cannot check luggage and most airlines frown on this behavior.
• Be flexible with destinations . For trips to Paris, think about looking for airfares to another EU capital and taking an onward plane or train.
• Always opt for early morning flights if there is a choice—these are always subject to the least amount of delays as they are least likely to be derailed by other flights traveling earlier or staff/airport issues.
• If possible, it's always best to take carry on and not check luggage into the hold. This will be cheaper, won't get lost and gives you less waiting time at the airport to travel onwards. If you need to, use a service that transports your luggage to your destination independently of the airline—there are several.
• Book with a company that has a 24-hour cancellation policy to allow for a change in plans. Expedia is one such company (and even better, anything booked on Friday, will be able to be cancelled until Monday). Qatar Airways holds flights for 72 hours on its booking system too, allowing some time to put other plans in place.
• Use a travel credit card that helps with the cost of tickets. Some have a really great welcome bonus and you can build up points before you book using miles.
• When spending money on holiday, it's usually very expensive to buy currency at the airport and never take out cash on a credit card while overseas. It's easier and more cost effective to use your credit card for direct purchases and use the minimum amount of cash. This will also mean that you won't be left with lots of currency at the end of trips that you cannot use for a long time (or ever again, in the case of closed currencies such Sri Lanka, Cuba, Morocco and India, unless you return).
• When paying with your credit card, always choose the local currency and never the conversion back to your home currency, which is sometimes done for you—the pre-converted rate almost always costs more.

• Editorial Standards
• Forbes Accolades

Join The Conversation

One Community. Many Voices. Create a free account to share your thoughts. 

Forbes Community Guidelines

Our community is about connecting people through open and thoughtful conversations. We want our readers to share their views and exchange ideas and facts in a safe space.

In order to do so, please follow the posting rules in our site's  Terms of Service.   We've summarized some of those key rules below. Simply put, keep it civil.

Your post will be rejected if we notice that it seems to contain:

• False or intentionally out-of-context or misleading information
• Insults, profanity, incoherent, obscene or inflammatory language or threats of any kind
• Attacks on the identity of other commenters or the article's author
• Content that otherwise violates our site's  terms.

User accounts will be blocked if we notice or believe that users are engaged in:

• Continuous attempts to re-post comments that have been previously moderated/rejected
• Racist, sexist, homophobic or other discriminatory comments
• Attempts or tactics that put the site security at risk
• Actions that otherwise violate our site's  terms.

So, how can you be a power user?

• Stay on topic and share your insights
• Feel free to be clear and thoughtful to get your point across
• ‘Like’ or ‘Dislike’ to show your point of view.
• Protect your community.
• Use the report tool to alert us when someone breaks the rules.

Thanks for reading our community guidelines. Please read the full list of posting rules found in our site's  Terms of Service.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Products
• Trends + Deals We Love

Travel Tuesday Is the Best Day to Score Cheap Flights and Hotel Deals — Here's What to Book, Up to 50% Off

Snag deals from Delta, Marriott, Hyatt, Royal Caribbean, and more.

Best Travel Tuesday Hotel Deals

Best travel tuesday cruise deals, best travel tuesday airline deals, best travel tuesday vacation package deals, best travel tuesday booking service deals.

Travel + Leisure / Iberostar Group

As a travel writer, I’ve been fortunate enough to see many destinations across the globe, visit all types of hotels, try out different airlines, and set sail on various cruise lines. This culmination of experience means I know a thing or two when it comes to good value in the travel industry — and, like anyone else, I love a good deal. 

With the advent of Travel Tuesday (basically the Black Friday and Cyber Monday of travel deals ) happening November 28 this year, plenty of these travel deals I love are already happening or on the horizon. In fact, the Travel Tuesday and Cyber Week deals are some of the best savings I see all year, and this year they include steep discounts, free nights, perks, and more — and that includes big brands like Delta, Hyatt, and Marriott. 

As you get your Travel Tuesday strategy in place, remember to check the fine print, as many deals start or end on different dates, and some sales have booking windows, caps, blackout dates, or other restrictions. I did some of the hard work for you by finding some of the best Travel Tuesday deals out there so you can score savings, upgrades, extra nights, and more.

Travel + Leisure / Iberostar Group

IHG Hotels & Resorts: The folks behind hotel brands like Intercontinental, Six Senses, Kimpton, Holiday Inn and more have all types of savings . At participating Iberostar Beachfront Resorts, you can take advantage of IHG’s maximum 40 percent discount for stays booked by November 28 until October 31, 2024, or December 20, 2024, depending on the exact location. The easiest way to save a cool 20 percent on other hotels is by booking through the IHG One Rewards app , but you can also take advantage of credit card incentives, bookings made with cash and points, and more. 

World of Hyatt: World of Hyatt acquired the luxury hotel booking platform Mr & Mrs Smith earlier this year, and to celebrate, through March 31, 2024, WoH members get exclusive access to purchase Mr & Mrs Smith gift cards that earn them an impressive five base points for every $1 spent at MrMrsSmith.Redeam.com . 

Marriott Bonvoy: Marriott Bonvoy is toting its biggest Cyber Week Sale to date, and members receive 20 percent off bookings made by November 28 for stays occurring November 26, 2023, through January 15, 2024. To sweeten the deal, non-members will also receive 15 percent off bookings across popular hotel brands including Marriott, Sheraton, Westin, W, Luxury Collection, and more. You can use your Marriott Bonvoy app to score the savings, or visit marriottbonvoy.com/escapes .

Hilton: Select Hilton properties are offering discounts of up to 50 percent off on stays booked during the holiday season. Pro tip: The best Travel Tuesday deals are in Mexico (Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe All-Inclusive Resort), Florida (Hilton Orlando), Vegas (Virgin Hotels Las Vegas) and South America (Hilton Cartagena, Hilton Barra Rio de Janeiro, Hilton Bogota), so make sure to check the fine print.

Rosewood Hotels: Treat yourself (or others) to a plush stay at some of Rosewood’s most sought-after properties like Rosewood Little Dix Bay and Rosewood Phuket. On trips taking place through June 30, 2024, simply use the code CYBER23 when you book on rosewoodhotels.com for discounts (based on your length of stay). For example, you can get 35 percent off the best available rates when you book a Rosewood accommodation between November 24 and 28, 2023, but booking over five nights will earn a 50 percent discount on your stay. 

Travel + Leisure / The Standard Hotels

The Standard Hotels: It’s a short window, but between Black Friday and Travel Tuesday, The Standard Hotels have rooms across all hotel properties at 35 percent off the best available rate for stays between November 14 and August 31, 2024. That includes top international cities like Bangkok, Melbourne, and London; there are select blackout dates during that time, but that shouldn’t dissuade you from booking the boutique hotel brand known for its playful nature. 

Topnotch Resort: if you’re in need of some top-notch pampering, this is the place for you. The cute Vermont resort with a serious spa and great tennis center is offering a special deal that starts on November 27 even prior to Travel Tuesday. Dubbed One Night, One Room, One Hundred Dollars , travelers can secure one room priced at just $100 (excluding taxes and resort fees). There’s just one available per night between the period of November 2, 2023, to August 31, 2024, with the sale ending when 100 nights of reservations have been booked. Our advice: read the fine print and be stealthy, because nights will go fast!  

Fontainebleau Las Vegas: Sin City’s buzziest new hotel is allowing travelers to book one night and get one night on them for stays booked on or prior to Travel Tuesday. 

Travel + Leisure / Waldorf Astoria Hilton

Waldorf Astoria, Cancun: Looking for a deal on a last-minute trip? To celebrate its first anniversary in Cancun , the oceanfront resort is offering up to 30 percent off its most luxurious accommodations, complimentary access to the rejuvenating Hydrotherapy facilities, a 25 percent discount on massages at the Waldorf Astoria Spa, a 25 percent savings on dining experiences, plus a welcome amenity from the resort’s chef. Not too shabby. Snag this deal up until Travel Tuesday for travel between November 1, 2023, to December 15, 2023.

KSL Resorts: With a suite of five independent, boutique hotels along California’s Central Coast, KSL’s Cyber Week 25 percent off booking offer means serious savings on luxurious hotel digs. Stays through March 14, 2024, are eligible for this discount at accommodations in some of Cali’s most sought-after Central California locales, including Avila Beach, Pismo Beach, and Paso Robles. 

Aqua-Aston Hospitality: With condo-style resort properties spread across Oahu, Kauai, Maui, and Hawaii Island, you’ll find shelter at one of this hospitality group’s 25+ Hawaiian hotels and resorts with an enticing 20 percent through Travel Tuesday (Valid for stays booked online at aquaaston.com .) Plus, you can travel and do some good by staying on Maui, which is currently one of the best ways to help the tourism-dependent island heal from the devastating fires that took place. Our pick is for a stay at the lovely Aston Maui Hill property. 

Travel + Leisure / Aqua-Aston Hospitality

Radio Hotel: Looking to live out an In the Heights fantasy in NYC? Radio Hotel , a new boutique hotel located in Washington Heights — featuring kitschy, Dominican-inspired flair including hair-roller chandeliers — is offering a whopping 30 percent savings when booked through November 29, 2023. It’s valid for travel during the window of January 1, 2024, through August 31, 2024. 

Graduate Hotels: Graduate Hotels always have a nice deal around this time, and this year is no exception. They’re offering a can’t-be-beat 50 percent off stays at all of their properties when booked between November 27 to December 1, 2023, for stays happening between November 27, 2023, through March 31, 2024. Their hotels are big on fun, creative interior design, and with rates this good, Graduate is ideal for a quick staycation or even better, an extended trip. 

The Retreat Costa Rica: Since we can all use a bit of R&R, award-winning The Retreat Costa Rica is offering 35 percent off wellness packages . Book before November 28 for stay dates running from February 1, 2024, through December 19, 2024.

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa: Get up close and personal with viticulture in Temecula, California, where South Coast Winery Resort & Spa is offering a 20 percent discount on the best available rates. Book before November 29 for trips taking place through August 31, 2024. Some restrictions may apply, so read the fine print and make sure to use the promo code BFCMSC while checking out. 

Bequia Beach Hotel: Turn off your cell and disappear for a minute in the Grenadines at Bequia Beach Hotel , where the darling guest rooms and villas have traditional Caribbean decor, and you can save up to 35 percent on all room types until November 30, 2023, when you book online for stays until December 23, 2023, and between January 4 through August 31, 2024. Blackout dates and other restrictions exist, but this is an otherwise solid deal you can flexibly plan your 2024 vacation around. 

Blue Fox Motel: If you’re dreaming of a stay or workcation at one of Sullivan Catskills’ coziest properties, you’re going to want to listen up. In addition to the converted motel’s signature five nights for $500 + $100 dining voucher to use at the on-site restaurant and bar, they're offering travelers to book three nights and receive a $50 dining voucher. Blue Fox’s offer is valid for travel Sunday night through Thursday night until April 15, 2024 when booked in advance with the code WORKCATION50 . 

Travel + Leisure / Windstar Cruises

Royal Caribbean: The family-friendly cruise line's Travel Tuesday deals include different tiers of instant savings based on stateroom type, from $150 savings on Interior and Ocean View staterooms to $225 for Balconies and a sizable $750 for Suites. Even if you miss that particular deal valid on Travel Tuesday, you can still count on an impressive 30 percent off all Royal Caribbean cruises with bookings made through December 1, 2023, and the 30 percent savings is combinable with a Kids Sail Free offer, so make sure to read the fine print before booking. Royal Caribbean's 7-night Caribbean cruises start at just $416 while 2024 Alaska cruises start at just $292.

Hurtigruten / HX: This Norwegian pleasure and expedition cruise line — with quality itineraries to Antarctica, Greenland, Galapagos Islands, West Africa, and more — is offering travelers the ability to save up to 50 percent when they book before November 30, 2023. The best part? The sale is already live to take advantage of, and multiple cruises and cruise lengths exist, including a 14-day West Africa Archipelago Cruise , a 9-day In Darwin’s Footsteps journey, and a week-long nature and wildlife expedition cruise.

MSC Cruises: This Italian-born company has offered affordable luxury tours since 1970, and they’re extending great deals even past Travel Tuesday by offering 80 percent off select exotic cruises until November 30, 2023. Kids can also travel free on MSC cruises booked during the company’s prior Black Friday sale. 

Travel + Leisure / Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises: One of the most trusted names in cruising has up to a 50 percent discount that applies to all fare types when purchased through November 30, 2023, and the opportunity for third and fourth guests to sail for free. Travelers can also use another limited-time offer that extends through December 12, 2023, for 50 percent off cruise fares and 50 percent off deposits on voyages 45 days or less.

Quasar Expeditions: Our ears always perk up for the Galapagos, especially when a deal is involved. For select sailings in April, May, September, and October 2024, Quasar Expeditions is offering a special 30 percent discount on select week-long departures that can be booked prior to November 30, 2023. Those traveling on the handsome M/V Evolution yacht can save even more thanks to their promotion, which includes free domestic airfare to the Galapagos.

Windstar Cruises: To show their gratitude this holiday season, luxury cruise line Windstar Cruises is currently running the “Thankful for Travel” sale, with a choice of iconic destinations like the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, Tahiti, South America, and more. The sale ends December 1, 2023, and details on applicable sailings can be found on their website. The deals also include a choice of perks, like $1,000 onboard credit or one free hotel night. In addition, Windstar’s sale has reduced deposits to just 5 percent.

Holland America Line: Bookable through December 1, 2023, this deluxe, legacy cruise line is offering up to 30 percent off rates on itineraries of 5+ days worldwide, which include Alaska, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, Australia/New Zealand, South America, and Antarctica. Select cruises also include prepaid stateroom gratuities, meaning you can keep your cash on land. 

Travel + Leisure / PLAY

PLAY: A major airfare deal to get you over to Europe? Yes, please. Low-cost Icelandic airline PLAY is offering 35 percent off flights to Iceland, Paris, Berlin, Frankfurt, London, Copenhagen, Dublin, and Amsterdam through November 28. It’s the right way to secure airfare for your upcoming spring trip since the deal is valid for flights booked on flyplay.com from December 2023 to May 2024.

Delta Airlines: SkyMiles members are eligible for up to $300 off flights and hotel bookings through the end of November. Travel dates run through January 31, 2024. Whether you’re a first-time flier or a frequent flier, you’ll want to use promo code SMBF300 when making your reservation. 

Qatar Airways: The airline famed for their Q Suites is allowing travelers to save up to 15 percent on flights through the end of October 2024, booked on or before Travel Tuesday on November 28. Destinations eligible for the discount include Athens, Berlin, Istanbul, Prague, Marrakech, Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and more. Baggage booked online or through the Qatar Airways app is also eligible for up to 20 percent off .

Scandinavian Airlines (SAS): Running through Travel Tuesday, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has one of the best ways to save for many European destinations, with round-trip flights to Europe starting as low as $375. The deal applies to travel that takes place between January 15, 2024, and April 30, 2024, and includes round-trip nonstop fares from Newark, Miami, and Los Angeles into many different Scandinavian destinations, including Copenhagen, Oslo, Stockholm, plus smaller airports too, like Tromso — a great place to start for Northern Lights gazing — and the always beautiful Faroe Islands. 

Singapore Airlines: Through November 28, Singapore Airlines is offering reduced rates on several destinations , including the Maldives, Dubai, Ho Chi Minh, and Manila, among others.

Hawaiian Airlines: Take advantage of several of this fan-favorite airline’s holiday offers, including HawaiianMiles partner promotions, gift card deals, and special sales running through Travel Tuesday and beyond on select flights, including those between North America and Hawaii and within the Hawaiian Islands. All offers and details are on Hawaiian’s website .

Travel + Leisure / Amy Murts

Cheap Caribbean: Come the icy winter months, sand in toes and a rum punch are going to sound pretty good, no? With just a 4-night minimum stay, CheapCaribbean is offering $250 off per reservation using the promo code CYBERDEAL250 on vacation package bookings that include hotel and airfare. But move quickly — because this one expires at the stroke of midnight following Travel Tuesday. 

JetBlue Vacations: What’s better than taking care of your flight and hotel in one shot? Valid through the end of the year, travelers booking with JetBlue Vacations can secure flight and hotel packages to popular vacay spots like Aruba, Punta Cana, and San Juan, plus free airport transfers, with a total savings of up to $300 — just check the individual promo code based on your spending . 

Travel + Leisure / Getty Images

Contiki: During Travel Tuesday, you can save up to 25 percent off when you book with Contiki on 60+ trips across six different continents. Highlights include fan-favorite European getaways and their brand-new South Korean Soul tour and a new Africa addition, the Sea, Safari, and South Africa . But hurry, this sale is already ongoing and ends on November 30, 2023.

encrier / Getty Images

Booking.com: Travel Tuesday deals bring discounts of 30 percent or more on stays booked through November 29. Top savings-heavy destinations include Istanbul, Chicago, Dubai, San Francisco, and Paris. 

Priceline: Valid through and slightly after Travel Tuesday, there are many enticing ways to save. Until Christmas Day, get up to 25 percent off select Disney Resort hotels to scratch that Disney Adult — or kid! — itch. You can also save 10 percent on Priceline Experiences using the code EXPERIENCES10 (exclusions apply), allowing you to plan and reserve popular activities to avoid missing out while on a trip. Lastly, there's a deal for 25 percent off or more on airport parking with The Parking Spot.

Travelzoo: Travelzoo is offering several eye-popping discounts on destinations all over the world, including a Vermont 2-night ski retreat plus lift tickets for only $599, 7 nights beachfront in Thailand for two at only $399, a Saint Lucia ocean view getaway for two at $599, and a luxurious Costa Rica beach retreat for $899 plus a $300 credit. 

Expedia: Valid during and a little after Travel Tuesday, members can save 30 percent or more on select accommodations for trips through the end of 2024, booked through November 29. The best deals are in Australia, Singapore, and London, which are likely on your bucket list anyway.  

Hotels.com: The discount hotel booking platform is offering 30 percent or more on hotels when signed in as a One Key member for travel through the end of 2024 when booked by November 29. Discounts are eligible on Member Prices and on select hotels. 

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Shop More T+L-Approved Picks

Related Articles

The Best Last-Minute Summer Travel Deals to Book Now

Flights to hawai‘i from $119. alaska cruises for $299. these flight, cruise, and hotel offers could still salvage your 2023 travel plans..

• Copy Link copied

You can still score an amazing flight deal to the island of O‘ahu.

Photo by Shutterstock

With its long, sunny days, and kids out of school, summer is typically a busy season for travel. But jam-packed planes and sky-high airfares mean that many Americans aren’t able to plan for as much travel as they’d like this year.

Luckily, numerous travel companies, including airlines, cruises , and hotels, have recently launched promotions that could help customers realize their travel dreams this summer and fall. Here are the best travel deals we’ve spotted to hopefully inspire those future getaways.

Air New Zealand’s flight deal could bring you to some of Australia’s most iconic destinations, like the Sydney Opera House.

Flights to Australia starting at $1,195 round-trip

Air New Zealand is making it easier to get down under this summer. From now through August 6, the airline is running a sale on flights from North America (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Houston, Chicago, and Vancouver) to Australia (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Perth, Hobart, and Cairns) for as little as $1,195.

35 percent off two of London’s top hotels

Preferred Hotels & Resorts is currently offering a Last Minute Escapes promotion, offering deals at two of London’s top-notch hotels: The Guardsman and Middle Eight . From now through July 31, travelers can score 35 percent off rooms by using the promo code: MKTFLASH.

40 percent off and fifth night free at select World of Hyatt hotels

World of Hyatt is offering hot summer discounts across its portfolio of luxury all-inclusive resorts globally. One of the most impressive deals is arguably at Secrets Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa, which is offering 40 percent off all stays and the fifth night free for bookings made before July 31.

Save up to $500 on an EF Go Ahead Tours trip

Small group tour company EF Go Ahead Tours is running a Off-peak Escape Flash Sale through July 24, with discounts of up to $500 off on many of its trips. There are also ongoing last-minute specials, where travelers can save up to $600 on trips departing in the next few months.

Norse Atlantic’s flight deal could take you to London for just $99 one-way.

Norse Atlantic Airways flights for as little as $99

Heading to Europe this summer? Low-cost carrier Norse Atlantic Airways is offering deals on flights from certain U.S. cities (New York, Fort Lauderdale, Los Angeles, Orlando, Boston, Washington, D.C., San Francisco, and Miami) to European destinations (Oslo, London, Berlin, Paris, and Rome) for as little as $99 one-way in economy light. The deal is currently live and will go through Tuesday, July 25, 2023 at 12:00 a.m. EDT.

Free upgrades at Marriott Bonvoy hotels and resorts

Marriott Bonvoy, one of the largest hotel chains in the world, is offering complimentary upgrades or discounts on suites for summer bookings made by July 31 for stays through September 4, 2023. To access the upgrade, use the promotional code HDK.

40 percent off Celebrity Cruises

If you’re dreaming of a trip to the Mediterranean, Alaska, or the Bahamas, Celebrity Cruises’ deal could make it a reality. Currently, the cruise company is offering 40 percent each guest and up to $200 in onboard credit for every sailing (excluding the Galapagos) for travel between now and April 30, 2025. The deal is available through July 23.

Stay in a Kimpton for up to 30 percent off

Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants’ Long Weekend Away Sale is live through September 4. Available at all participating Kimpton hotels globally, guests can save between 15 and 25 percent on stays when they book three nights or more.

Uniworld is now offering discounted river cruises around the world.

Courtesy of Uniworld

Save on Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Travelers who book an all-inclusive, luxury river cruise with Uniworld can score up to $3,000 in savings. Some standout itineraries include:

• Peruvian Amazon & Machu Picchu Exploration
• Timeless Wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong
• Castles Along the Rhine
• Belgian Holiday Markets , a brand-new holiday itinerary for 2023

Flights from the mainland with Hawaiian Airlines from $119

Whether you’re traveling from the mainland or Hawai‘i, airfare will be cheap—provided you book soon. Hawaiian Airlines is running a deal on one-way fares , with prices as low as $119 each way from Hawai‘i’s major airports to cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles. To and from New York City, fares start at $270.

Save 15 percent on certain Trafalgar trips

Trafalgar , a guided tour company, is offering a deal for last-minute adventurers: up to 15 percent off trips that are less than four months away.

Vail Resorts hotels at up to 20 percent off

OK, so Vail Resorts’ current deal isn’t exactly for a summer getaway, but you do need to book in the summer to take advantage of it. Vail Resorts is currently offering its Book Winter Early lodging sale, where travelers can save 15 percent on lodging across Vail Resorts’ portfolio (those who are Epic Pass Holders can receive 20 percent off). The sale ends on July 31.

This article was originally written in May 2023 and has since been updated with new information.

• public English
• Destinations
• AAdvantage®

Vacations are better as an AAdvantage® member

Choose 2 or more:

Type text to display a list of choices

Write a date in the format: MM/DD/YYYY

Enter to select travel class and passengers

AAV Vacation Packages *Promo Code: PASSPORT24 *Applicable Destinations/Hotels: ACE, AGP, AMS, ATH, BCN, BER, BOD, BUD, CDG, CPH, DOH, DUB, FCO, FLR, FRA, JMK, JTR, LHR, LIS, MAD, MAN, MUC, MXP, NAP, NCE, PMI, PRG, SVQ, VCE, VIE, VLC, ZRH *Offer: $150 off *Minimum spend: $5,000 *Minimum stay: 4 Nights Booking dates: 9/1/2024 through 9/30/2024 Travel dates: 9/3/2024 through 4/30/2025 Blackout dates: 11/28/2024, 12/25/2024, 12/31/2024, 1/1/2025, 4/20/2025

Vacationing around the world just got better with American Airlines Vacations and the AAdvantage® program. The world acclaimed AAdvantage® program is now enhancing the American Airlines Vacations experience by featuring a new way to earn miles while on vacation for you and your entire travel party. Elevate your vacation experience by unlocking the benefits of the AAdvantage® program with American Airlines Vacations.

Explore our most popular vacation packages

cmp-location-selector-label-collapsed-menssage cmp-location-selector-label-description-origin

cmp-location-selector-label-collapsed-menssage cmp-location-selector-label-description-destination

Find your next vacation package according to theme

All-Inclusive

Elevated Amenities

Search by vacation destination

Africa keyboard_arrow_down keyboard_arrow_up, asia pacific countries & regions keyboard_arrow_down keyboard_arrow_up, europe keyboard_arrow_down keyboard_arrow_up, north america & south america keyboard_arrow_down keyboard_arrow_up, the middle east keyboard_arrow_down keyboard_arrow_up.

The 18 best places to travel in 2023

For many people, this year marked the first time since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic that travel was back within reach. It was a year defined by joyous reunions — reconnecting with friends and family in person, rediscovering favorite destinations and taking stock of this new, changed world.

It was also a year of novel travel challenges . As demand soared, so, too, did prices. We returned to the roads and skies to find a travel industry that could barely keep up with our ravenous appetite to explore the globe.

But somehow, our love of travel has endured, our wanderlust is just as insatiable as ever and destinations around the world are beckoning us to visit.

That's why we're thrilled to share the destinations on our list of the best places to go in 2023. And this year, we've not only tapped our editorial team to contribute their tips and insights but also our extraordinary network of writers from around the world.

Reaching your travel goals has never been easier when you download the free TPG App !

As always, we looked at exciting new hotel openings and boundary-pushing flights, plus the places that embody the travel trends and philosophies we see taking shape in 2023 and beyond: The destinations prioritizing sustainability, focusing on Indigenous and community-based tourism and encouraging travelers to venture beyond the obvious gateway or itinerary.

We also saw a proliferation of innovative new ways for travelers to use their points and miles to experience the world, including exciting ultra-long-haul flights where miles will come in handy and hotels in destinations that previously might have been absent from most reward travelers' maps.

As we head into 2023, get excited (we are!) about embarking on unforgettable journeys to new corners of the globe, prepare to take a second look at places you already thought you knew and connect more personally with the people who call them home along the way. We hope this list of places to visit rekindles your passion for travel and look forward to exploring this wonderful, awe-inspiring planet with you. — By Eric Rosen and Melanie Lieberman

Aotearoa-New Zealand: The future of inclusive travel

Best for sustainability-focused outdoor adventurers and sports enthusiasts.

Laid-back beach towns, award-winning wine, genuine hospitality and outdoor adventure aren't the only reasons why you should put Aotearoa-New Zealand at the top of your 2023 travel list.

Although the country's commitment to sustainability has long, deep roots (more than 33% of its land is protected), New Zealand's tourism industry launched the Tiaki Promise, a sustainability pledge, just prior to the pandemic. The Maori word "Tiaki" means to care for people and places, so the aim of this pledge is to avoid overtourism and encourage visitors to explore lesser-known destinations.

One way to do so is to seek new Maori cultural encounters and experiences, such as a traditional hangi feast in Rotorua, which is prepared in underground pits, after a visit to the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute. Or, take an interpretive storytelling trek up Maunga Hikurangi on the North Island's east coast. If you're there in June or July, you can celebrate the Maori New Year, Matariki, which is based on the lunar calendar and became an official public holiday in 2022.

Next year, New Zealand will also co-host the largest FIFA Women's World Cup ever along with Australia. Matches will be played on both the North and South islands. Along with other large sporting events like the Women's Rugby World Cup, it's a clear example of the nation's efforts to promote diversity and inclusion as international visitors return.

A handful of new hotels have opened recently, too, such as the art-filled Park Hyatt Auckland , the environmentally friendly Hotel Britomart in Auckland's central business district and, on the South Island, The Carlin Hotel in Queenstown, which overlooks the Eyre and Remarkables mountain ranges surrounding Lake Wakatipu.

Getting to the country from the U.S. is even easier now with Air New Zealand's new nonstop flights from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Auckland Airport (AKL) and Qantas' launch of the same route starting in March 2023.

TPG tip: If you're staying in Tamaki Makaurau, the Maori name for Auckland, explore one of the towns or nearby islands in the harbor. The ferry ride to Devonport takes 15 minutes, while Waiheke Island is only 40 minutes away by ferry. The latter has fabulous beaches and wineries to explore using a hop-on, hop-off bus. — By Becky Blaine

Orlando: Easy fun with classic experiences

Best for roller coaster riders, of course, but also space geeks and culture freaks.

Whether you want to feel like you're in outer space, watch an actual rocket lift off or catch a concert in one of the world's best theaters, Orlando is the destination to visit in Florida — and 2023 is going to be a banner year for the city.

Many travelers come for the world-class theme parks, but Orlando is undergoing a travel renaissance that includes a just-opened terminal at Orlando International Airport (MCO) and 170 miles of railway that will connect the high-speed Brightline train from Orlando to Miami by mid-2023.

But don't hop the train too fast. Book tickets to a concert at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts' Steinmetz Hall, which opened in 2022 and is rated as one of the world's most acoustically perfect spaces. An urban pocket park downtown called Art2 is also elevating this area of Orlando with can't-miss experiences, including performances and food trucks.

Cape Canaveral, an hour east on the coast, is also now home to Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex, a 50,000-square-foot, multilevel addition to the Kennedy Space Center that's full of interactive exhibits. And that's to say nothing of the full lineup of planned rocket launches travelers can check out over the course of 2023.

Of course, it's always a good idea to visit the theme parks, especially to catch the final months of Disney World's 50th-anniversary celebration , which includes a reimagining of Epcot with that park's first-ever roller coaster, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind , and the spring 2023 debut of Tron: Lightcycle Run in the Magic Kingdom.

Disney World is also home to the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser , a "Star Wars"-themed journey unlike any other. The immersive, interactive two-night hotel experience (ahem, space mission) opened in early 2022.

Walt Disney World Resort isn't the only theme park behemoth elevating the park experience in 2023. Universal Studios Florida opened the thrilling VelociCoaster ride just last year, and it's keeping the excitement up with an all-new theme park, Epic Universe, already under construction. It will deliver new rides, themed lands, hotels and restaurants.

TPG tip: If you are one of the millions of travelers who rent a car in Orlando each year, there is a new 7-Eleven on the airport property where you can refill your tank at retail prices and make a pit stop to grab snacks for your journey. — B y Summer Hull

Oslo: Europe's coolest art capital

Best for art and design lovers seeking new city-shaping museums and hotels.

Norway continues to claim the attention of travelers, but in 2023, all eyes are on the capital city, which is finally ready to flaunt its latest investments in the arts and hospitality.

Across from the white, angular slashes of the opera house's Carrara marble ramps and staircases is the curving 13-story tower housing the new Munch Museum, which opened in 2021. Even more imposing is the sprawling new National Museum, now one of Europe's largest art museums, which houses works from Edvard Munch's iconic "The Scream" to masterpieces from European artists like Pablo Picasso, Claude Monet and Henri Matisse.

This fall also saw the debut of Sommerro, an art deco hotel packed with contemporary art collections curated by museum director and art critic Sune Nordgren, along with 1930s works by Norwegian master Per Krohg — including a mosaic feature in the restored public baths, which opened in November. There's more to come from the boutique hotel and cultural center next year, including the addition of Villa Inkognito, an 11-suite retreat in a former 19th-century residence.

You can even bookend your trip to Oslo by venturing farther south to Kristiansand, where Kunstsilo, a modernist Nordic art museum, will debut next year inside an award-winning functionalist silo from the 1930s.

TPG tip: It's never been easier to explore beyond Oslo thanks to a flurry of new flights and cruises. Low-cost carrier Norse Atlantic (which began operating in 2022) continues expanding its reach in the U.S. by offering a number of promising nonstop routes, including one between London's Gatwick Airport (LGW) and New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) that's coming next year. Norwegian airline Widerøe is connecting Bergen to four new European cities next summer as well. For those interested in heading north, Norway's oldest cruise company, Hurtigruten, is restarting the Svalbard Express next year, while Viking and Disney have announced new itineraries to the remote Arctic region . — By Melanie Lieberman

Jordan: Connections by air, land and sea

Best for travelers who want a taste of the ancient world at the heart of the modern Middle East.

Home to some of the world's oldest pieces of history, Jordan is on many travelers' bucket lists, especially now that there are several new additions on the way. In 2023, this Middle Eastern country is channeling its renowned hospitality to welcome travelers via new flights and a host of new hotels and experiences.

In the capital city of Amman, The Ritz-Carlton is the latest luxury hotel to join the gaggle of points-friendly properties near the city's 5th Circle landmark. Lavish white interiors and crystal chandeliers bedazzle the new hotel, which has 194 rooms and 34 suites with floor-to-ceiling views of the capital's sand-hued buildings. Next summer, Radisson will pump up its Middle East portfolio with Radisson Blu Hotel, Amman Galleria Mall. And across the red sand desert, the Crowne Plaza Resort Petra will reopen after a 10-year renovation and expansion.

Northwest of Amman, the former ancient trading town of Al-Salt became Jordan's sixth and latest UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its reputation as "the city of tolerance and urban hospitality." History and design fans can explore touches of European architecture alongside the city's distinct yellow limestone facades. This city is also a new stop on the Jordan Trail's Thru Hike. Launched in 2017, the trail offers the chance to spend 40 days hiking through eight regions that, together, traverse the entire country. Originally connecting 52 villages, it's recently been upped to 75 different communities.

Nearly 75% of Jordan is covered in pomegranate-hued sand, but head south and the watercolor greens and blues of the Red Sea emerge. Here, cruising is making waves in a country renowned for its mystical desert landscapes. Emerald Cruises recently debuted its first oceangoing yacht the Emerald Azzurra, which sails from the famed seaside city of Aqaba to Athens, Greece. Next year, Windstar Cruises is following suit by launching new itineraries from Amman to Athens and Athens to Dubai, with a stop at Aqaba.

TPG tip: Hopping on a flight to Jordan from select North American cities has just gotten easier. United has launched its first-ever direct flight from Washington, D.C.'s Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Amman's Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) , which departs three times per week. Last summer, Royal Jordanian Airlines, a Oneworld member, also launched a new route from Amman to Toronto via Montreal, and it will be increasing frequencies to Chicago, Detroit, Montreal and New York in the spring and summer of 2023. — By Katie Lockhart

American waterways: Rediscovering our backyard

Best for travelers craving a nostalgic way to see America's small towns.

There's something charming about life along the water — and we're not talking about the swanky condos overlooking Miami Beach or Malibu, California's Billionaires Beach. Think instead of historical small towns like Natchez, Mississippi, and Muskegon, Michigan, as well as industrial cities like Pittsburgh, Milwaukee and Chicago, which have long relied on the nation's waterways.

American lakes and rivers remain key commercial arteries, but the cruise industry has turned them into some of the world's top leisure destinations as well thanks to a slate of new, offbeat itineraries that are only going to draw more passengers in the coming years.

Although Great Lakes and U.S. river cruises have been around for more than a century, 2023 could be one of the best years yet to sail domestically thanks to lines like American Queen Voyages , American Cruise Lines , Ponant , Viking and Pearl Seas Cruises, which are adding more capacity and itineraries along the Mississippi, Ohio, Columbia and Snake rivers; the Great Lakes; and the Chesapeake Bay.

Viking's new expedition arm rolled out its first two ships, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, which both spent time sailing the Great Lakes in 2022. Next year, travelers can also look forward to two new vessels, American Eagle and American Glory, from American Cruise Lines. The ships will debut along the East Coast and sail exclusively domestic itineraries. Additionally, American Queen Voyages will roll out the longest river voyages to date: 23-day sailings on the Mississippi and Ohio rivers .

If you book a domestic cruise, you'll see unexpected sides to major cities like Cincinnati, where the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center provides a sobering experience, as well as Detroit, which is a staple on many Great Lakes voyages, and New Orleans along the Mississippi. You might also visit towns such as Madison, Indiana, home to stately houses and a historical saddletree museum, that you might not have heard of otherwise. With more itineraries rolling out over time, there will be plenty more destinations to discover along America's waterways.

TPG tip: If you're looking to engage your competitive spirit, book American Queen Voyages' Kentucky Derby Cruise on American Countess. During the sailing on May 3, 2023, the boat will go head-to-head against two other vessels in Louisville, Kentucky's Great Steamboat Race, part of the annual Kentucky Derby Festival. — By Ashley Kosciolek

Los Angeles: In-person events are the hottest ticket in town

Best for travelers seeking a new side to the City of Angels.

Events for sports enthusiasts and tech acolytes will draw big crowds to Los Angeles next year.

In January, the College Football Playoff National Championship will kick off at SoFi Stadium and Hollywood Park, and the 123rd U.S. Open Championship golf tournament will be held at the Los Angeles Country Club in June. A third major event, the 40th Annual Breeders' Cup horse racing world championship, will gallop out of the gate at Santa Anita Park in November. The venue sits across the street from the still-new Le Méridien Pasadena Arcadia.

You'll also want to get your virtual reality headset ready, because E3 is getting back in the game, live and in person this June at the Los Angeles Convention Center. The video game industry's biggest annual event was held virtually in 2021 and canceled outright in 2022.

It will at long last be easier to get around Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) , too. After three years of construction, the Automated People Mover at LAX will finally open, connecting all terminals, the Metro Rail and a new rental car center. This state-of-the-art train will reduce travel time both to and within the airport.

Even frequent visitors will find exciting new places to bed down in LA since eight major hotels opened in 2022, including the Hyatt -branded tommie Hollywood, The Shay in Culver City and the adjoining Hyatt Place and Hyatt House LAX/Century Blvd. Two Marriott hotels — a Moxy and an AC — will debut downtown in the 38-story Fig + Pico tower, which sits across from the convention center and Crypto.com Arena. A few blocks away, a $1 billion, Frank Gehry-designed mixed-use development called The Grand LA opened. Here, you'll find Hilton 's splashy Conrad Los Angeles and four new restaurants from chef José Andres.

Also new downtown is the Sixth Street Viaduct, a 3,500-foot-long bridge with an accompanying 12-acre park with walking and bike trails. Spanning the Los Angeles River, this bridge connects downtown's Arts District with the Mexican food hot spot, Boyle Heights.

TPG tip: The Los Angeles Dodgers are considered the early-odds baseball team to beat in the 2023 World Series, so we recommend keeping an eye out for autumn points deals at downtown LA hotels near Dodger Stadium. — By Melanie Wynne

South Africa: More flights to wildlife sites

Best for nature lovers dreaming of visiting the Rainbow Nation.

South Africa has a wealth of natural and cultural riches that travelers never tire of exploring, from the Big 5 of safari lore (elephants, lions, leopards, hippos and buffaloes) to the historic steps of Nelson Mandela's "Long Walk to Freedom." One thing the country has been lacking, however, is direct flights to both Cape Town and Johannesburg via multiple U.S. carriers.

In mid-December, Delta will commence a triangle service, flying the Airbus A350 from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to Johannesburg's O.R Tambo International Airport (JNB) and then on to Cape Town International Airport (CPT) with a nonstop return from there. And through a special arrangement with the Department of Transportation , United is now offering nonstop flights between Washington, D.C.'s Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Cape Town International Airport (CPT) using a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. This is in addition to its nonstop services from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to both Cape Town International Airport (CPT) and Johannesburg's O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB).

When they arrive, travelers will find new safari lodges opening next year in some of the best wildlife-viewing destinations. The Tswalu concession in the southern Kalahari Desert is South Africa's largest private reserve — and it's less than two hours away by plane from both Cape Town and Johannesburg. There are few lodges here, though, so the new Loapi Tented Camp opening in 2023 is truly notable. With just six modern, eco-friendly tented micro-camps that are perfect for privacy, it will feel like you have the remote savannah all to yourself as you head out on private ranger-led safari drives to spot African wild dogs and desert black rhinos.

Also set to open in 2023 is The Homestead, a sustainability-focused luxury lodge in the secluded Nambiti Private Game Reserve. Nestled into the mountains of malaria-free KwaZulu-Natal, the lodge is around a three-hour drive from either Johannesburg or Durban. In addition to a dozen sleek safari suites with expansive wilderness views and butler service, expect electric safari vehicles for game drives and innovative energy-saving touches as part of the lodge's larger conservation efforts, such as grass-planted roofs and a solar farm.

TPG tip: Plan a trip around South Africa's epic music festivals, including Johannesburg's Afropunk Festival on Constitution Hill, the seat of the country's lawmakers, in December. In March, the largest music festival in sub-Saharan Africa (the Cape Town International Jazz Festival) takes center stage. And AfrikaBurn, South Africa's answer to Burning Man, sets up on the Eastern Cape in April. — B y Melissa Klurman

Rome: The Eternal City shines anew

Best for history buffs and hotel enthusiasts itching to discover ancient ruins amidst modern luxury.

In 2023, Rome's full historical heritage will be front and center for visitors to enjoy.

A project to open the Sacred Area of Largo di Torre Argentina (where Julius Caesar was assassinated) via a series of elevated walkways is slated for completion next summer. The archaeological site near the Pantheon was unearthed in the 1920s but has been inaccessible for decades. It joins The Mausoleum of Augustus, which reopened in 2021 following an 8 million euro ($8.2 million) restoration, as one of the ancient sites newly accessible to visitors.

Additionally, the Museo dell'Arte Salvata (the Museum for Rescued Art) opened in 2022. Here, precious antiquities that were returned to Italy after being plundered from archaeological sites and trafficked on the black market to auction houses, private collections and even institutions like New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art are on display. The exhibits will change, but you might see sculptures, ancient coins or even an amphora painted with erotic scenes that dates back to the sixth century B.C.

But there are new, modern developments luring luxury travelers back to Rome, too.

The arrival of international brands like W, Soho House, The Hoxton and Mama Shelter, plus boutique hotels like The First Musica and Umiltà 36 have heralded a contemporary hotel boom. Next year's openings will up the ante even more, with arrivals by Six Senses, Edition, Bulgari and Nobu, as well as a renovation of the 19th-century Palazzo Naiadi, a neoclassical landmark on Piazza Della Repubblica, by Anantara.

Rome will also see increased airlift from the U.S., with three daily seasonal flights (up from two) on Delta from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Rome's Fiumicino Airport (FCO) and a new daily seasonal route from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Fiumicino Airport (FCO) on United , both of which will launch on May 25.

TPG tip: The best way to explore the Eternal City is on two wheels. Just in time for the 2023 season, Scooteroma is revamping its popular Street Art Vespa Tour and debuting a brand-new experience focused on the city's oft-overlooked early 20th-century art and architecture, such as the iconic Vittoriano Emmanuel II National Monument in Piazza Venezia. — By Laura Itzkowitz

Bangkok: Setting the table for an epic comeback

Best for passionate foodies and arts aficionados.

For the last few years, Bangkok has been quietly setting the stage for a monumental rebound once the travel floodgates reopened and international tourists returned en masse.

On the Chao Phraya riverfront, a luxury hotel revival led by Capella and Four Seasons outposts has been underway since 2020. Both properties house destination restaurants, including soulful Thai at Capella's Phra Nakhon and the swanky Buenos Aires-themed BKK Social Club at the Four Seasons. This summer, Hong Kong's Mott 32, plus five other dining outlets, arrived at The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon around the corner. Early next year, Southeast Asia's first Soho House opens in Bangkok with multiple bars and restaurants (plus a 39-foot outdoor pool), and an Aman will follow in the coming years.

Hotels aren't the only places for tourists to experience the energy of Bangkok's evolving culinary scene. Innovators all across the city are transforming it into the world's next great food destination. Just this year, a former monk opened Small Dinner Club, which serves offbeat dishes like dessert tom yum, while mixologists at Mahaniyom Cocktail Bar craft boozy, zero-waste concoctions starring an individual element like coconut or squid.

The 2023 Michelin Bangkok guide features 35 starred restaurants (five more than last year). Additionally, both Samrub Samrub Thai and Raan Jay Fai ranked on the World's 100 Best Restaurants list in 2022. Buzz is gathering around watering holes like No Name Noodle, which opened in 2022 and serves just 35 bowls of Japanese soba per day, and chef Arnaud Dunand Sauthier's just-opened, alpine-inspired restaurant Maison Dunand as well.

Bangkok's art scene is also reawakening. Just before the pandemic, 31-year-old Mook Attakanwong founded ATT 19, an exhibition space in a former Chinese school where works broach once-taboo topics like mental health. At Aurum The River Place, exhibits range from street art to a subway car installation.

Airlines are putting flights to Thailand back on their schedules, too. Air Canada's seasonal route from Vancouver, British Columbia, to Bangkok running through March 24 is the first nonstop from North America in more than a decade. Just don't forget to make those restaurant reservations first.

TPG tip: Spend a few days hiking through tropical, UNESCO-listed Khao Yai National Park and stay in a Bill Bensley-designed heritage train car suite at the brand-new InterContinental Khao Yai Resort , which is located just a 2.5-hour drive away from Bangkok. — By Kathryn Romeyn

Panama: Leading the way with homegrown tourism

Best for adventure seekers looking to explore an untouched paradise.

Panama might be best known for its famous canal, but in 2023, all that changes for the Central American country, as previously untouched areas become more accessible to travelers. The country is a hotbed of biodiversity and an eclectic blend of cultures unlike any other in the region. Now, it's easier than ever to experience it all.

Launched in August 2022, Panama's community tourism network, SOSTUR, is a digital platform connecting travelers with rural communities and local tourism businesses. Travelers planning a visit for 2023 can select tours across 10 pilot communities in remote corners of the country. Experiences range from agritourism farm visits to sloth watching in the jungle.

Hikers will love exploring the pristine southern coast of Panama's Azuero Peninsula, which is brimming with tropical flora and fauna, natural caves and hidden beaches. Next year, the tour operator Azuero Adventures — based in the rural village of Cambutal — is introducing its Cerro Hoya Mountain Expedition, a six-day adventure that includes a three-day camping tour in Cerro Hoya National Park, home to some of the last areas of primary jungle on the peninsula.

Bookend your trip with a few days in the capital and a stay at the stylish new Hotel La Compañia, part of Hyatt's Unbound Collection. Also in the city's Casco Antiguo colonial district is the new Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, an Accor-affiliated property slated to open before the end of the year. It has a desirable location on the water's edge and unobstructed city skyline and Pacific views.

Since Delta launched three new routes from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Orlando International Airport (MCO) and New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Panama City's Tocumen International Airport (PTY) late last year, it has gotten that much easier for many flyers to visit Panama.

TPG tip : If you're flying to Panama on Copa Airlines, the nation's flag carrier, consider upgrading to see the new Copa Club lounge in Tocumen International Airport (PTY)'s new Terminal 2. It's a sprawling 21,500-square-foot space with buffet-style dining, leather loungers, a dedicated family entertainment area and a bar. — By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

Bhutan: A legendary trail reopens

Best for adrenaline junkies craving both nature and culture.

When Bhutan reopened for tourism in September 2022, it also unveiled the highly anticipated Trans-Bhutan Trail, an ancient footpath that stretches for 250 miles across the country. Over the previous two years, the trail was carefully restored by people from around the country, connecting the popular western area with the less-traveled eastern edge of Bhutan.

For decades, hiking has lured mountaineers to Bhutan. The tiny Asian kingdom has exceptional trails, especially through the Himalayas, such as the famous Snowman Trek, a demanding 216-mile hike considered one of the toughest in the world. The newly restored Trans-Bhutan Trail, by contrast, has sections that can be tackled in single or multiple days, so it's more beginner-friendly. Hikers wind through forested mountains, rice paddies and bustling villages with new campsites and homestays along the way. While there are still challenging tracts, the intention is to open parts of the country that are less touristed.

As a commitment to a more sustainable tourism strategy, the country also implemented a new, higher $200 daily tourism fee. The tariff (which replaces a daily $65 fee) funds various economic, social, environmental and cultural developments and is partially intended to limit tourist entries to manageable numbers. It also means travelers no longer need to purchase packaged trips, which allows more flexibility to book preferred hotels and tours.

The country has no shortage of luxury lodges (Aman, Como and Six Senses all have properties here), and more are on the way. Next year, andBeyond will unveil the new Punakha River Lodge on the banks of western Bhutan's Mo Chhu River in a bucolic, rice-growing region. It will have tented suites and two villas designed in a traditional Bhutanese architectural style.

TPG tip: Along with the new daily tourism fee, travelers have to adhere to a number of rules, which include hiring a local guide (in certain areas) and not self-driving. The upside is a guide can unlock the country's history and reveal its storied heritage. The roads are also extremely steep and winding, so having someone navigate them for you is a major plus. When planning your trip, keep in mind that there are no direct flights from the U.S. to Bhutan. Most travelers transit via Bangkok or Delhi, both of which have direct flights with Drukair to Paro International Airport (PBH). —By Mary Holland

Mexico's Pacific Coast: Stylish new destinations emerge

Best for swimmers, surfers and sybarites who appreciate design-driven beach resorts.

The roughly 1,200-mile stretch of mainland Mexico's Pacific Coast from Nayarit to Oaxaca is famous for the resort destinations of Puerto Vallarta, Acapulco and Zihuatanejo. But swanky new hotels, major infrastructure improvements and breathtaking natural scenery have brought three very different areas along it into focus for 2023: Riviera Nayarit, Costalegre and Riviera Oaxaqueña.

Beginning just north of Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit is undergoing one of Latin America's biggest luxury hotel booms. This 65-mile string of resort communities includes Punta Mita, already home to Four Seasons and St. Regis properties, as well as the surf town of Sayulita and, farther north, the up-and-coming Mandarina and Costa Canuva developments. Recent openings include the Conrad Punta de Mita , Secrets Bahia Mita, One&Only Mandarina and Auberge Resorts' ultra-exclusive Susurros Del Corazón. Rosewood Mandarina and Costa Canuva's Ritz-Carlton Reserve Riviera Nayarit are coming soon, along with the VidantaWorld theme, water and nature park.

The dramatic headlands and secluded beaches of the 60-mile Costalegre, which is 2.5 hours south of Puerto Vallarta, have drawn celebrities to enclaves like Careyes for decades. The region is about to take off with the opening of a new airport in Chalacatepec and continued improvements along the winding coastal artery, Highway 200. The posh Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo opened in November 2022 with 157 open-air rooms and suites, and the famed Las Alamandas boutique resort recently completed a top-to-bottom renovation. There's also the continued expansion of the 36,000-acre Chamela-Cuixmala Biosphere Reserve, home to a posh 40-room eco-resort with a Byzantine design.

Served by two smaller airports, including the recently expanded Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM), Riviera Oaxaqueña is increasingly appealing to visitors seeking an easygoing, mindful vibe (think: yoga retreats and eco-conscious architecture). Grupo Habita's new Hotel Escondido and Hotel Terrestre offer understated luxury, while Puerto Escondido's adults-only Casona Sforza is an idyllic end-of-the-road beach retreat. And just down the coast, the artsy and diverse villages of Mazunte and Zipolite (with its LGBTQIA-popular, clothing-optional beach ) are blissful beach towns for chilling out.

TPG tip: The anticipated early 2023 completion of the Barranca Larga-Ventanilla Highway, which traverses a 10,000-foot-high mountain pass, will cut the drive time from Puerto Escondido to the historic town of Oaxaca, with its art galleries and renowned restaurants, from seven hours to less than three. — By Andrew Collins

Kenya: Africa's top ecotourism destination

Best for wild-at-heart travelers seeking adventure and eco-friendly luxury.

Kenya has long been the standard bearer for sustainable tourism in Africa. The emergence of wildlife conservancies in the 1970s not only prevented poaching and illegal trade but also ushered in a new era of community involvement.

In 2023, Kenya's ecotourism movement will forge ahead with bold new initiatives to protect what is arguably the greatest safari destination on Earth. Kenya's emblematic mountain bongo (a critically endangered, notoriously shy type of antelope) will be repatriated to Mount Kenya from a preserve in Florida in a project spearheaded by the Meru Bongo and Rhino Conservation Trust. Sanctuaries within Mount Kenya National Park will also provide refuge to endangered black rhinos and draw on the knowledge and engagement of local Masai communities.

Points travelers will soon have even more reason to add the East African nation to their travel wish list. In 2023, Marriott will debut its first high-end safari lodge on the continent: the JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge . Its location, at the heart of Masai Mara National Reserve, will ensure optimal wildlife viewing; the park is home to a staggering inventory of more than 450 animal species, including the Big 5. The lodge will feature 20 classic safari-style tents with canopy beds, stone tile floors and Masai-inspired prints and fabrics. Marriott has committed to hiring 50 individuals from the Masai community, too.

Beyond the Masai Mara, Amboseli National Park is home to an extraordinary density of wildlife thanks in no small part to conservation efforts such as the Amboseli Trust for Elephants. Today, the park is one of the best places on the planet to see long-tusked elephants, as well as giraffes, eland, zebras and wildebeest in large numbers. Debuting in November 2023, Angama Amboseli will comprise 10 luxury tented suites located within Kenya's first community-owned conservancy, the Kimana Sanctuary. All tents will frame views of Mount Kilimanjaro, but the main draw here, no doubt, will be the once-in-a-lifetime elephant encounters.

TPG tip: The Billionaire Resort & Retreat Malindi, an erstwhile A-list hangout that opened to the masses in 2022, offers the ultimate safari and Indian Ocean combination without any grueling border crossings. Located in Malindi (75 miles north of Mombasa, Kenya), the resort's opulent villas and gorgeous infinity pool overlook a private white sand beach you won't want to miss. — By Caroline Lascom

Turks and Caicos: Getting out in the archipelago

Best for sun seekers and beach lovers.

Beyond the white sands and aquamarine waters you'll find around the Caribbean, Turks and Caicos offers exciting developments, including new hotels and cruise facilities, plus better airports that will make some of its previously remote islands much more accessible. So, it should come as no surprise, then, that Turks and Caicos has seen the fastest-growing travel demand by Americans year over year, according to TripAdvisor's Fall Travel Index .

To help with the influx of inter-island and private flights, the new South Caicos Airport (XSC) on South Caicos Island — the easternmost island in the Caicos group — will complete construction in June 2023. The government will also break ground on a new-and-improved international airport for Providenciales in early 2023, a project expected to cost $300 million.

Visitors will have plenty of new accommodation options, too. Andaz Turks & Caicos Residences at Grace Bay is targeting a spring 2023 opening and will be the first Andaz-branded resort and residential property in the Caribbean. Also coming in 2023, The Shore Club is adding eight six-bedroom pool villas to its iconic Long Bay Beach property. Travelers can also look forward to boutique-style suites and panoramic views of Grace Bay Beach at The Bight Hotel and Providenciales' newest resort and marina, South Bank Turks & Caicos, both of which are in the pipeline.

A recently completed dock extension at the Grand Turk Cruise Center can now accommodate larger cruise ships, so it's bound to be a port of call on more itineraries. Additionally, $1 million in grants has been distributed to water sports operators and beach vendors to accommodate the projected increase in cruisers.

TPG tip: For the first time since the pandemic, a full lineup of events is planned for Turks and Caicos in 2023. This includes the weekly Island Fish Fry at Bight Park and legendary events like the Conch Festival, the Valentine's Day Cup on Middle Caicos, the Caribbean Food and Wine Festival and the largest festival in Turks and Caicos, Maskanoo, a cultural celebration started by enslaved people in the 19th century mocking the wealthy islanders' costume balls. —By Devorah Lev-Tov

Charleston, South Carolina: A new museum casts light on a dark past

Best for diving deeper into a much-loved city .

Yes, we know. Charleston on a "best of" travel list is a lot like saying "florals for spring" — universally popular but hardly groundbreaking. But in 2023, the International African American Museum will open in Charleston, heralding a new era for cultural tourism in the city. In the works for the past two decades, the museum officially opens its doors on Jan. 21.

The museum will be a powerful lens on the past and is fittingly located at Gadsden's Wharf, where slave ships docked in Charleston Harbor and thousands of enslaved Africans first set foot in North America. The museum is raised off this now-hallowed ground on 18 pillars, each 13 feet high — a monumental structure designed by renowned architect Henry Cobb.

Inside, exhibits explore both the history of enslavement and the stories of African Americans in South Carolina's Lowcountry from the past through the present. There's a genealogical center here as well. Outside, the African Ancestors Memorial Garden includes a reflecting pool facing the harbor and a soundscape that explores the diverse range of African languages.

Beyond the IAAM, Charleston is welcoming new nonstop flights to several cities. Breeze Airlines continues to roll out new flights, including two weekly nonstops each to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and six direct flights per week to Provo Airport (PVU) in Utah, which all commenced in November. Earlier in 2022, Breeze rolled out daily nonstops to Orlando International Airport (MCO) and New York's Westchester County Airport (HPN).

On the hotel front, travelers can stay at the historic Charleston Place hotel, which is under new ownership as part of the Beemok Hospitality Collection and in the midst of a $100 million renovation. Mills House Charleston in the city's French Quarter recently emerged from a complete refurbishment as the city's first Curio Collection by Hilton property. The Loutrel, a new luxury hotel in the heart of Charleston's historic district with a buzzy on-site restaurant, is also worth checking out.

TPG tip: Spoleto Festival USA presents more than 150 performances of opera, dance, theater, classical music and jazz spanning two full weeks from Memorial Day through the beginning of June. It's a fun time to plan a visit, and there are numerous hotel package deals available. — By Melissa Klurman

Ecuador: Coastal towns capture the limelight

Best for travelers searching for new destinations to unlock with points.

Though Ecuador's capital city, Quito, and remote Galapagos Islands may be the first to come to mind, exciting developments along the country's Pacific Coast are drawing a new wave of adventurers to unexpected corners of the nation.

In March of 2022, Kontiki Expeditions launched expeditions aboard the exclusive M/S Wayra, a nine-stateroom yacht that bears the distinction of being the first "water-based" Small Luxury Hotels of the World member, which partners with World of Hyatt . That means travelers can earn Hyatt points while exploring such seldom-visited ports of call as the surf spot San Mateo and Isla de la Plata, often referred to as an inexpensive alternative to the Galapagos.

Travelers eager to connect with Ecuador's overlooked coast can also take advantage of the country's increased airlift: LATAM resumed its route between Miami International Airport (MIA) and Mariscal Sucre Quito International Airport (UIO) in October with daily flights, making it altogether easier for Americans to reach Ecuador. American Airlines has also increased the frequency of its flights between Miami and Guayaquil, the gateway to Ecuador's beachy coastline.

Even Ecuador's most famous destination, the Galapagos, continues to see significant travel industry investments. Earlier this year, Ecuador's president expanded the protected Galapagos Marine Reserve by more than 23,000 square miles. Months later, a former boutique eco-friendly hotel was reborn as Royal Palm Galapagos, a Curio Collection hotel, making it possible for travelers to redeem Hilton Honors points in the Galapagos. Standard award nights start around 80,000 points, putting the islands well within reach for many travelers with points and miles stashes.

Plus, a new Hotel Indigo is now accepting reservations for end-of-year trips to the archipelago, unlocking IHG One Rewards points redemption opportunities there, too.

TPG tip: If an eight-day sailing along the coast isn't enough immersion in the culture and wildlife of Ecuador, remote workers can take advantage of Ecuador's new Nomad Visa, which launched in 2022 and allows foreign workers to live and work in Ecuador for up to 24 months. — By Melanie Lieberman

Disney Wish: The most magical place at sea

Best for travelers who want the best of Disney while exploring the Caribbean.

Disney Wish first set sail in mid-2022, but 2023 is going to be the best time to sail on the company's first new cruise ship in a decade.

The itineraries and cabin types (ranging from a first-ever funnel suite to the cleverly designed oceanview staterooms with split bathrooms that help a whole family get ready faster by creating two distinct spaces) are now more widely available than in the first few sold-out months, but the new ship smell and sparkle remain.

Of equal importance, the staff has now had the necessary time to hit their stride with service, including on stage with Broadway-caliber reimaginings of "The Little Mermaid" and "Aladdin," and in the thrilling all-new restaurants with "Frozen"- and Marvel-inspired dinners (be sure and try the sticky date pudding with vanilla ice cream while in the Worlds of Marvel and Anna's Koldtbord with goodies like smoked salmon, sweet shrimp and dill honey mustard while dining in Arendelle).

With its three- and four-night sailings from Florida's Port Canaveral to the Bahamas, most passengers book Disney Wish to experience the ship itself rather than the ports of call. In fact, many guests don't even disembark in Nassau, preferring instead to take a turn on the AquaMouse slide, book a treatment at the Senses Spa or just have fun with the many Disney characters and themed spaces on board. It's a stress-free alternative to the increasing complexity and cost of indulging in a visit to the Disney theme parks.

TPG tip: There's the magic that's easy to spot on Disney Wish, but then there is more waiting to be discovered. For example, if you enjoy whiskey, don't walk past Hook's Barbery without popping in, as the secret space is far more than just a nook for a shave and a haircut. And if you can stay up late, make your way to the Grand Hall at midnight and look up for a fun surprise. — By Summer Hull

Sydney: Global celebrations abound

Best for travelers eager to say they attended some of the biggest events in 2023.

A fabulous flock of international visitors will descend upon Sydney in February and March to celebrate WorldPride (the first in the Southern Hemisphere) mashed up with the city's Mardi Gras festival. An opening concert headlined by — who else? — the inimitable Kylie Minogue is reason enough to hop on a flight Down Under.

In August, the city's Accor Stadium will host the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup final, bringing to an end a month of soccer (sorry, football ) and Australia's shared hosting of the tournament with New Zealand.

Fortunately, getting there will be easier than ever, as Qantas recently announced it would fly from Sydney Airport (SYD) to New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) via Auckland Airport (AKL) in June, cutting travel times for East Coasters and heralding a new age of super-long-haul flights.

Arrivals will have a bounty of new hotels to choose from for their visit, too, including the recently opened Kimpton Margot Sydney and Ace Hotel Sydney, as well as a luxurious new Capella opening by Circular Quay early in the year and the forthcoming W Sydney set to debut in October.

Aside from all the sundry Sydney outdoor activities visitors can continue to enjoy year-round, from beach walks to BridgeClimb Sydney, travelers will also be able to explore the Art Gallery of New South Wales' stunning (and eco-friendly) new Sydney Modern Project, which the museum has billed as "the most significant cultural development in the city since the opening of the Sydney Opera House nearly half a century ago."

Opening in December of 2022 and overlooking the lush Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, the complex will comprise both new and historical buildings, performance spaces, creative studios and terraces and gardens. It was designed by Pritzker Architecture Prize-winning architectural firm SANAA and will house specially commissioned works by both international and Australian artists along with rotating exhibitions … so, you never know what you might see on your next trip to Sydney.

TPG tip: Indigenous tourism experiences are flourishing across Australia, including in Sydney, where travelers can learn about Indigenous Australians' way of life on a walking Dreamtime Southern X tour of The Rocks neighborhood or even book BridgeClimb Sydney's popular Burrawa Indigenous Experience guided tour as you scale the Sydney Harbour Bridge. — By Eric Rosen

Feeling inspired? Our sister site, Elsewhere , can help you plan bespoke itineraries to several of these destinations.

Vacations in St. Petersburg

Search hundreds of travel sites at once for vacation package deals in st. petersburg.

Free to use There are no hidden charges or fees.

Filter your deals Filter by free cancellation, free breakfast and more.

Millions of reviews Check ratings based on millions of real guest reviews.

Bundle and save Save money when you bundle your flight + hotel.

Cheap St. Petersburg package deals

Most popular st. petersburg flight and hotel deals, search by stars, search by review score, search by board, search by price, search by freebies, when to book a vacation in st. petersburg, tips for finding st. petersburg package deals.

• There are loads of types of vacations in St. Petersburg and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $301; Family vacation $301; Romantic vacation $642; Luxury vacation $642; Budget vacation $301.

Where to stay in St. Petersburg

St. petersburg vacation information, other popular package vacation destinations.

• Pismo Beach, CA package vacations
• Montauk, NY package vacations
• Nice, France package vacations
• Hong Kong, Hong Kong package vacations
• Oklahoma City, OK package vacations
• Estes Park, CO package vacations
• Boise, ID package vacations
• West Yellowstone, MT package vacations
• Victoria, BC, Canada package vacations
• Hampton Beach, NH package vacations
• Cocoa Beach, FL package vacations
• Providence, RI package vacations
• Mykonos, Mykonos, Greece package vacations
• Pensacola Beach, FL package vacations
• Mecca, Saudi Arabia package vacations
• Calgary, AB, Canada package vacations
• Brussels, Belgium package vacations
• Jerusalem, Israel package vacations
• Ottawa, ON, Canada package vacations
• Positano, Salerno, Italy package vacations

• Help Center
• 1-866-921-7925

Start Searching

• Packages  
• Hotels  
• Cruises  
• Rental Cars  

* Indicates required fields

Rental Period:

pickUpDate - dropOffDate

Pick-Up: pickUpTime - Drop-Off: dropOffTime

Pick-Up Location:

pickUpAddress

pickUpAgencyName

pickUpAgencyAddress

Drop-Off Location:

Same as Pick-Up Location

dropOffAddress

dropOffAgencyName

dropOffAgencyAddress

Coupon Override

Please call.

For drivers under the age of 25, additional fees and/or restrictions may apply.

For information and assistance in completing your reservation, please call:

We're unable to find your location.

Alaska Cruise Tours:

A cruise tour is a voyage and land tour combination, with the land tour occurring before or after the voyage. Unless otherwise noted, optional services such as airfare, airport transfers, shore excursions, land tour excursions, etc. are not included and are available for an additional cost.

Vacation Packages

The aloha state, a family of islands with distinct personalities offers their unique version of paradise. find your ideal island, find your hawaii..

• Hawaii Island

Featured Deals

Maui: grand wailea, a waldorf astoria resort package.

Complimentary Room Upgrade $300 - $500 Resort Credit Daily Breakfast for Two and More

Kauai: Ko`a Kea Resort on Poipu Beach Package

Stay 6 / Pay 5 $300 Resort Credit Oceanfront Property

Oahu: Wayfinder Waikiki Package

Stay 4 / Pay 3 Digital Costco Shop Card Waived Daily Resort Fee

Aloha Awaits with Hilton

Choose Oahu or Hawaii Island Family-Friendly Getaways Member Value in Every Package

Hawaii Island: Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort Package

$100 - $500 Resort Credit Digital Costco Shop Card No Daily Resort Fee

Maui: Napili Kai Beach Resort Package

Stay 5 / Pay 4 $150 Food and Beverage Credit Digital Costco Shop Card

The Costco Traveler Blog

Maui on a budget: 5 things to do for free, natural hawaii, oahu on a budget: 5 things to do for free, more about hawaii.

Discover the differences between these majestic islands and choose your paradise.

Hawaii Island is the largest of the islands and sits at the southernmost part of the chain. A temperamental youngest sibling of the family, this island is full of drama, adventure, and natural beauty. Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, tour a local coffee plantation, stroll seaside villages, travel back in time at Puukoholo Heiau National Historic Site, and stand at the southernmost point of the United States where nothing but ocean separates you from Antarctica.

Kauai is the oldest of the islands and keeps watch over the others from the northernmost point of the chain. With age comes beauty and the dramatic landscape of Kauai reflects this sentiment. Hike Waimea Canyon and gaze at the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, trek the Koloa Heritage Trail for a glimpse of the past, visit local botanical gardens for their tropical treasures, tour cascading waterfalls, and helicopter out to the Na Pali coastline for the ultimate vantage point.

Maui is the second-largest island and just to the north of Hawaii Island. Known for famous beaches and championship golf courses, Maui delivers an experience filled with magic and beauty to visitors. Witness an awe-inspiring sunrise at Haleakala, snorkel with sea turtles at Molokini, stroll the eclectic shops in Lahaina and witness a ceremonial cliff dive at Black Rock.

Sandwiched between Kauai and Maui is the bustling island of Oahu. The most populated in the chain, Oahu offers a unique blend of modern and ancient influences. Transforming the southern coastline is the city of Honolulu while monster waves rule the northern coast. Reflect on U.S. history at Pearl Harbor, stroll through the pineapple maze at the Dole Plantation, hike the Diamond Head crater for unobstructed views of Waikiki Beach, visit the new International Market Place, and watch big wave surfers tackle the Banzai Pipeline.

There is indeed an island for every personality. Find your Hawaii, find your paradise.

Content provided by Costco Travel experts. Copyright © Costco Travel. All rights reserved.

Before You Go

• To make it easier to replace your passport if it’s lost or stolen, in addition to your passport, take a photocopy of your passport information page (keeping it separate from your actual passport).
• Carry only a limited amount of cash, just enough for gratuities and incidental purchases. Major credit cards are widely accepted and can be replaced if lost or stolen.
• Always lock your hotel room door (including patio and balcony door on any level of the building) and use the peephole before opening the door.
• Store your valuables (such as cash, credit cards and airline tickets) in the hotel’s in-room safe or front desk safety deposit box.
• If you must carry valuables on your person, do so in a pouch or money belt concealed under your clothing. Purses and backpacks can be easy targets for thieves.
• For complete and current safety and security information, including travelers' tips, public announcements, travel advisories and more, please visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov.
• December through February: 76° to 75° (Winter)
• March through May: 76° to 78° (Spring)
• June through August: 80° to 82° (Summer)
• September through November: 82° to 78° (Autumn)

Explore More Travel

Vacation like a star™ at planet hollywood costa rica.

All-Inclusive Resort

Digital Costco Shop Card with Every Package

Winter Getaways

Cool Off or Stay Warm

View Destinations

Pick Your Paradise

All-Inclusive Resorts in Dominican Republic,

Jamaica or Mexico

Member reviews become available after at least 5 are received in order to provide you with an accurate picture of this travel product.

We are processing your payment.

Do not refresh your browser or exit this page.

• Account Details
• Newsletters
• Group Subscription

Vietnam's Lam secures chip, oil deals in first U.S. trip as party boss

War, human rights discussed as Lam becomes country's first communist chief to address U.N.

HO CHI MINH CITY -- Vietnamese and U.S. companies signed deals on chips, oil and gas, and aviation on a New York visit by To Lam, who also on the trip became the first Vietnam communist party chief to address the United Nations.

Lam, a former security minister now serving a dual role as president, spent Monday urging Washington to scrap Nvidia export limits to Vietnam and recognize it as a market economy as well, while dodging questions about its old war foe, the former South Vietnam.

U.S.-backed Vietnam university condemns rumors it foments 'color revolution'

Vietnam turns chip sector magnet with affordable, quality talent pool, vietnam is a top target for chips act aid funds, u.s. says, vietnam veers into unknown as career cop makes communist party power play, u.s. firm's vietnam coal deal 'undermines' climate goal: report, vietnam proposes chip incentives from tax breaks to faster visas, latest on international relations, japan diplomat urges china to probe motive in schoolboy's death, japan and china top diplomats to meet over boy's killing, kishida, biden hail stronger japan-u.s. ties in farewell meeting, sponsored content, about sponsored content this content was commissioned by nikkei's global business bureau..

Nikkei Asian Review, now known as Nikkei Asia, will be the voice of the Asian Century.

Celebrate our next chapter Free access for everyone - Sep. 30

• KSAT Insider
• KSAT Connect
• Entertainment

FBI finds violent crime declined in 2023. Here's what to know about the report

Alanna Durkin Richer

Associated Press

WASHINGTON – Violent crime in the U.S. dropped in 2023, according to FBI statistics that show a continued trend downward after a coronavirus pandemic-era crime spike.

Overall violent crime declined an estimated 3% in 2023 from the year before, according to the FBI report Monday. Murders and non-negligent manslaughter dropped nearly 12%.

Recommended Videos

Violent crime has become a focal point in the 2024 presidential race, with former President Donald Trump recently claiming that crime is “through the roof” under President Joe Biden's administration. Even with the 2020 pandemic surge, violent crime is down dramatically from the 1990s.

Here's what to know about the FBI's report and the state of crime in the U.S.:

The numbers

Crime surged during the coronavirus pandemic, with homicides increasing nearly 30% in 2020 over the previous year — the largest one-year jump since the FBI began keeping records. The rise defied easy explanation, though experts said possible contributors included the massive disruption of the pandemic, gun violence, worries about the economy and intense stress.

Violent crime across the U.S. dipped to near pre-pandemic levels in 2022 , according to the FBI's data. It continued to tick down last year, with the rate falling from about 377 violent crimes per 100,000 people to in 2022 to about 364 per 100,000 people in 2023. That's just slightly higher than the 2019 rate, according to Deputy Assistant Director Brian Griffith of the FBI’s Criminal Justice Information Services Division.

“Are we looking at crime rates at a return to pre-pandemic levels? I think a reasonable person would look at that and say, ‘Yes, that’s what has happened,’” Griffith said in an interview with The Associated Press.

Law enforcement agencies in the biggest municipalities in the U.S. — communities with at least 1,000,000 people — showed the biggest drop in violent crime last year — nearly 7%. Agencies in communities between 250,000 and 499,999 people reported a slight increase — 0.3%— between 2022 and 2023.

Rapes decreased more than 9% while aggravated assault decreased nearly 3%. Overall property crime decreased more than 2%, but motor vehicle theft shot up nearly 13%. The motor vehicle theft rate — nearly 319 per 100,000 people — was the highest last year since 2007.

The limitations of the FBI's data

The FBI collects data through its Uniform Crime Reporting Program , and not all law enforcement agencies in the U.S. participate. The 2023 report is based on data from more than 16,000 agencies, or more than 85 percent of those agencies in the FBI's program. The agencies included in the report protect nearly 316 million people across the U.S. And every agency with at least 1 million people in its jurisdiction provided a full year of data to the FBI, according to the report.

“What you’re not seeing in that number are a lot of very small agencies," Griffith said.

Other crime reports

The FBI’s report is in line with the findings of the nonpartisan Council on Criminal Justice, which earlier this year analyzed crimes rates across 39 U.S cities, and found that most violent crimes are at or below 2019 levels. That group found there were 13 percent fewer homicides across 29 cities that provided data during the first half of 2024 compared the same period the year before.

On the campaign trail, Trump has cited another recent Justice Department survey to suggest the crime is out of control under the Biden administration.

That National Crime Victimization Survey , released earlier this month, shows that the violent crime victimization rate rose from about 16 per 1,000 people in 2020 to 22.5 in 2023. But the report notes that the rate last year was not statistically different from the rate in 2019 — when Trump was president. And the rate has declined dramatically overall since the 1990s.

The FBI's report and the National Crime Victimization Survey use different methodologies and capture different things.

The victimization survey is conducted every year through interviews with about 240,000 people to determine whether they were victims of crimes. While the FBI's data only includes crimes reported to police, the victimization survey also aims to capture crimes that were not.

Because it's done through interviews with victims, the victimization survey doesn't include data on murders. And it only captures crimes against people ages 12 and over.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

• Live In The D
• Newsletters

Sweden says Iran was behind thousands of text messages calling for revenge over Quran burnings

Associated Press

Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

FILE -A demonstrator holds up a copy of the Quran, Islam's holy book, during a protest of the burning of a Quran in Sweden, in front of the Swedish Embassy in Tehran, Iran, June 30, 2023. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi, File)

COPENHAGEN – Swedish authorities accused Iran on Tuesday of being responsible for thousands of text messages that were sent to people in the Scandinavian country calling for revenge over the burnings of Islam's holy book in 2023 .

According to officials in Stockholm, the cyberattack was carried out by Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, which hacked an SMS service and sent “some 15,000 text messages in Swedish” over the string of public burnings of the Quran that took place over several months in the summer of 2023.

Recommended Videos

Senior prosecutor Mats Ljungqvist said a preliminary investigation by Sweden’s SAPO domestic security agency showed “it was the Iranian state via the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, IRGC, that carried out a data breach at a Swedish company that runs a major SMS service.”

The Swedish company was not named. There was no immediate comment from Iranian authorities on the accusations from Sweden.

In August 2023, Swedish media reported that a large number of people in Sweden had received text messages in Swedish calling for revenge against people who were burning the Quran, Ljungqvist said, adding that the sender of the messages was “a group calling itself the Anzu team.”

Swedish broadcaster SVT published a photo of a text message, saying that “those who desecrated the Quran must have their work covered in ashes” and calling Swedes “demons.”

The protests were held under the freedom of speech act, which is protected under the Swedish constitution. The rallies were approved by police. However, the incidents left Sweden torn between its commitment to free speech and its respect for religious minorities.

The clash of fundamental principles had complicated Sweden’s desire to join NATO, an expansion that gained urgency after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine but needed the approval of all alliance members.

Turkey and its President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had temporarily blocked Sweden's accession, citing reasons including anti-Turkish and anti-Islamic protests in Stockholm but Sweden finally became a NATO member in March.

At the time, the Swedish government said it “strongly rejects the Islamophobic act committed by individuals in Sweden,” adding that the desecrations did not reflect the country's stand.

In July last year, Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a statement saying that “the insult to the Holy Quran in Sweden is a bitter, conspiratorial, dangerous event” and that the desecrations have “created feelings of hatred and enmity" in Muslim nations toward the people burning the Quran and their governments.

In a separate statement, SAPO’s operational manager Fredrik Hallström said Tuesday the text messages ' intent was to also "paint the image of Sweden as an Islamophobic country and create division in society.”

He accused “foreign powers" of seeking to “exploit vulnerabilities” and said they were "now acting more and more aggressively, and this is a development that is likely to escalate.” He did not name any specific country.

Meanwhile, Sweden' justice minister, Gunnar Strömmer, told Swedish news agency TT “that a state actor, in this case Iran, according to (SAPO's) assessment is behind an action that aims to destabilize Sweden or increase polarization in our country is of course very serious.”

There is no law in Sweden specifically prohibiting the burning or desecration of the Quran or other religious texts. Like many Western countries, Sweden doesn’t have any blasphemy laws.

“Since the actors are acting for a foreign power, in this case Iran, we make the assessment that the conditions for prosecution abroad or extradition to Sweden are lacking for the persons suspected of being behind the breach, “Ljungqvist said.

Ljungqvist who is with the Sweden's top prosecution authority said although the preliminary investigation has been closed, it “does not mean that the suspected hackers have been completely written off” and that the probe could be reopened.

Sweden’s domestic security agency in May accused Iran of using established criminal networks in Sweden as a proxy to target Israeli or Jewish interests in the Scandinavian country.

Iran’s Embassy in Sweden could not be reached for a comment on Tuesday.

Associated Press writer Jari Tanner in Helsinki contributed to this report.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

Click here to take a moment and familiarize yourself with our Community Guidelines.

“It’s Fall-ier”: Pennsylvania Launches Fall Travel Campaign as the Shapiro Administration Continues to Promote the Commonwealth as The Great American Getaway

• September 23, 2024

Pennsylvania Proves “It’s Fall-ier” with New Campaign Aimed at Leaf Peepers, Ghost Hunters, and Autumn Roadtrippers.

Campaign will highlight Pennsylvania’s unparalleled position as The Great American Getaway for fall lovers.

Harrisburg, PA – Today, the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) announced the launch of the “It’s Fall-ier in Pennsylvania” campaign as part of the Visit PA Pennsylvania: The Great American Getaway travel initiative. The campaign will lean into Pennsylvania’s premier position as the place to experience the very best of autumn — from unrivaled fall foliage and the nation’s most historical haunts to the season’s best scents and treats.

“Fall travel has long been a cornerstone of Pennsylvania’s economy, contributing significantly to the $76.7 billion impact that tourism generates for the Commonwealth,” said DCED Deputy Secretary of Tourism Anne Ryan. “Fall is just better in Pennsylvania, and this year, we plan to prove it and inspire the millions who live within a four-hour drive of Pennsylvania to plan their perfect fall getaway.”

Visit PA will launch a new 30-second television spot shot primarily at Shady Brook Farm in Bucks County, recently named 2024’s #1 leaf peeping destination in the U.S. according to Priceline. The advertisement also features a montage of colorful, vibrant fall imagery from across the Commonwealth, and will serve as the anchor in a media mix featuring high impact out-of-home, online video, digital media and paid social media.

Pennsylvania will take its autumnal ascendancy on the road with the “It’s Fall-ier Swagon,” a mobile experiential tour designed to demonstrate why Pennsylvania is the ultimate destination for fall enthusiasts. Visiting East Coast cities such as New York, Baltimore and Washington D.C., this classic hay wagon and rustically designed trailer will provide an immersive experience that evokes the scents and sights of fall in Pennsylvania. Guests will sample iconic Pennsylvania fall treats, receive updates about peak fall foliage in the Commonwealth’s many regions, and capture their experience in a photo booth for the chance to win custom designed fall swag and an overnight stay in Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania will also embrace its status as one of the most haunted states in America during Fall 2024. Visit PA will launch its Ghostly Getaway contest and dare Halloween and fright fanatics to prove they’re brave enough to win an overnight stay in a “be-spooked” room at the “boo-tique” Guild House Hotel in Philadelphia. One of the rooms in the historic property, a nearly 170-year-old National Historic Landmark, will transform into a haunted haven designed to frightfully rattle even the boldest of guests. The spine-chilling room will set the mood for a weekend of ghostly history in the heart of one of Pennsylvania’s many haunted towns and cities.

The fall frivolity will continue throughout the season as Visit PA offers fall lovers an Ultimate Fall Bucket List on social media, a limited edition line of Pennsylvania-themed pumpkin stencils, and the chance to win surprise fall getaways through a partnership with Pack Up + Go — a travel agency that specializes in surprise vacations.

Learn more about the “It’s Fall-ier in Pennsylvania” campaign on the Visit PA website or follow along on Instagram .

For more information about the Department of Community and Economic Development, visit the DCED website , and be sure to stay up-to-date with all of our agency news on Facebook , X , and LinkedIn .

MEDIA CONTACT: Governor’s Office, [email protected] , 717.783.1116 Penny Ickes, DCED, [email protected]

• River City Live
• Newsletters

WEATHER ALERT

6 advisories in effect for Duval, Coastal, Inland and St. Johns, Coastal, Inland Regions

Fbi finds violent crime declined in 2023. here's what to know about the report.

Alanna Durkin Richer

Associated Press

WASHINGTON – Violent crime in the U.S. dropped in 2023, according to FBI statistics that show a continued trend downward after a coronavirus pandemic-era crime spike.

Overall violent crime declined an estimated 3% in 2023 from the year before, according to the FBI report Monday. Murders and non-negligent manslaughter dropped nearly 12%.

Recommended Videos

Violent crime has become a focal point in the 2024 presidential race, with former President Donald Trump recently claiming that crime is “through the roof” under President Joe Biden's administration. Even with the 2020 pandemic surge, violent crime is down dramatically from the 1990s.

Here's what to know about the FBI's report and the state of crime in the U.S.:

The numbers

Crime surged during the coronavirus pandemic, with homicides increasing nearly 30% in 2020 over the previous year — the largest one-year jump since the FBI began keeping records. The rise defied easy explanation, though experts said possible contributors included the massive disruption of the pandemic, gun violence, worries about the economy and intense stress.

Violent crime across the U.S. dipped to near pre-pandemic levels in 2022 , according to the FBI's data. It continued to tick down last year, with the rate falling from about 377 violent crimes per 100,000 people to in 2022 to about 364 per 100,000 people in 2023. That's just slightly higher than the 2019 rate, according to Deputy Assistant Director Brian Griffith of the FBI’s Criminal Justice Information Services Division.

“Are we looking at crime rates at a return to pre-pandemic levels? I think a reasonable person would look at that and say, ‘Yes, that’s what has happened,’” Griffith said in an interview with The Associated Press.

Law enforcement agencies in the biggest municipalities in the U.S. — communities with at least 1,000,000 people — showed the biggest drop in violent crime last year — nearly 7%. Agencies in communities between 250,000 and 499,999 people reported a slight increase — 0.3%— between 2022 and 2023.

Rapes decreased more than 9% while aggravated assault decreased nearly 3%. Overall property crime decreased more than 2%, but motor vehicle theft shot up nearly 13%. The motor vehicle theft rate — nearly 319 per 100,000 people — was the highest last year since 2007.

The limitations of the FBI's data

The FBI collects data through its Uniform Crime Reporting Program , and not all law enforcement agencies in the U.S. participate. The 2023 report is based on data from more than 16,000 agencies, or more than 85 percent of those agencies in the FBI's program. The agencies included in the report protect nearly 316 million people across the U.S. And every agency with at least 1 million people in its jurisdiction provided a full year of data to the FBI, according to the report.

“What you’re not seeing in that number are a lot of very small agencies," Griffith said.

Other crime reports

The FBI’s report is in line with the findings of the nonpartisan Council on Criminal Justice, which earlier this year analyzed crimes rates across 39 U.S cities, and found that most violent crimes are at or below 2019 levels. That group found there were 13 percent fewer homicides across 29 cities that provided data during the first half of 2024 compared the same period the year before.

On the campaign trail, Trump has cited another recent Justice Department survey to suggest the crime is out of control under the Biden administration.

That National Crime Victimization Survey , released earlier this month, shows that the violent crime victimization rate rose from about 16 per 1,000 people in 2020 to 22.5 in 2023. But the report notes that the rate last year was not statistically different from the rate in 2019 — when Trump was president. And the rate has declined dramatically overall since the 1990s.

The FBI's report and the National Crime Victimization Survey use different methodologies and capture different things.

The victimization survey is conducted every year through interviews with about 240,000 people to determine whether they were victims of crimes. While the FBI's data only includes crimes reported to police, the victimization survey also aims to capture crimes that were not.

Because it's done through interviews with victims, the victimization survey doesn't include data on murders. And it only captures crimes against people ages 12 and over.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

Click here to take a moment and familiarize yourself with our Community Guidelines.

• Investigates
• Houston Life
• Newsletters

FBI finds violent crime declined in 2023. Here's what to know about the report

Alanna Durkin Richer

Associated Press

WASHINGTON – Violent crime in the U.S. dropped in 2023, according to FBI statistics that show a continued trend downward after a coronavirus pandemic-era crime spike.

Overall violent crime declined an estimated 3% in 2023 from the year before, according to the FBI report Monday. Murders and non-negligent manslaughter dropped nearly 12%.

Recommended Videos

Violent crime has become a focal point in the 2024 presidential race, with former President Donald Trump recently claiming that crime is “through the roof” under President Joe Biden's administration. Even with the 2020 pandemic surge, violent crime is down dramatically from the 1990s.

Here's what to know about the FBI's report and the state of crime in the U.S.:

The numbers

Crime surged during the coronavirus pandemic, with homicides increasing nearly 30% in 2020 over the previous year — the largest one-year jump since the FBI began keeping records. The rise defied easy explanation, though experts said possible contributors included the massive disruption of the pandemic, gun violence, worries about the economy and intense stress.

Violent crime across the U.S. dipped to near pre-pandemic levels in 2022 , according to the FBI's data. It continued to tick down last year, with the rate falling from about 377 violent crimes per 100,000 people to in 2022 to about 364 per 100,000 people in 2023. That's just slightly higher than the 2019 rate, according to Deputy Assistant Director Brian Griffith of the FBI’s Criminal Justice Information Services Division.

“Are we looking at crime rates at a return to pre-pandemic levels? I think a reasonable person would look at that and say, ‘Yes, that’s what has happened,’” Griffith said in an interview with The Associated Press.

Law enforcement agencies in the biggest municipalities in the U.S. — communities with at least 1,000,000 people — showed the biggest drop in violent crime last year — nearly 7%. Agencies in communities between 250,000 and 499,999 people reported a slight increase — 0.3%— between 2022 and 2023.

Rapes decreased more than 9% while aggravated assault decreased nearly 3%. Overall property crime decreased more than 2%, but motor vehicle theft shot up nearly 13%. The motor vehicle theft rate — nearly 319 per 100,000 people — was the highest last year since 2007.

The limitations of the FBI's data

The FBI collects data through its Uniform Crime Reporting Program , and not all law enforcement agencies in the U.S. participate. The 2023 report is based on data from more than 16,000 agencies, or more than 85 percent of those agencies in the FBI's program. The agencies included in the report protect nearly 316 million people across the U.S. And every agency with at least 1 million people in its jurisdiction provided a full year of data to the FBI, according to the report.

“What you’re not seeing in that number are a lot of very small agencies," Griffith said.

Other crime reports

The FBI’s report is in line with the findings of the nonpartisan Council on Criminal Justice, which earlier this year analyzed crimes rates across 39 U.S cities, and found that most violent crimes are at or below 2019 levels. That group found there were 13 percent fewer homicides across 29 cities that provided data during the first half of 2024 compared the same period the year before.

On the campaign trail, Trump has cited another recent Justice Department survey to suggest the crime is out of control under the Biden administration.

That National Crime Victimization Survey , released earlier this month, shows that the violent crime victimization rate rose from about 16 per 1,000 people in 2020 to 22.5 in 2023. But the report notes that the rate last year was not statistically different from the rate in 2019 — when Trump was president. And the rate has declined dramatically overall since the 1990s.

The FBI's report and the National Crime Victimization Survey use different methodologies and capture different things.

The victimization survey is conducted every year through interviews with about 240,000 people to determine whether they were victims of crimes. While the FBI's data only includes crimes reported to police, the victimization survey also aims to capture crimes that were not.

Because it's done through interviews with victims, the victimization survey doesn't include data on murders. And it only captures crimes against people ages 12 and over.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.