World Travel Sisters

Are you ready to make the most of 2023 and explore the world? If so, you’re in luck. We’ve done the research for you and have rounded up the top 2023 travel destinations you don’t want to miss. From affordable trips to breathtaking sights, these 2023 travel destinations offer something for everyone, no matter your budget or interests. So get ready, set, and go! Pack your bags and explore these amazing top travel destinations of 2023.

Affordable Travel Destinations for Summer 2023

If you’re looking to get away without breaking the bank, there are plenty of affordable travel destinations to choose from in 2023. From the sunny beaches of Mexico to the historic cities of Europe, you don’t have to spend a fortune to have a great vacation. Plus, many of these destinations also happen to be some of the safest travel destinations, making them the perfect choice for families or solo travelers.

One affordable travel destination to consider is Thailand. Known for its beautiful beaches, exotic temples, and delicious street food, Thailand has a lot to offer travelers on a budget. Accommodations can be found for as low as $10 per night, and meals are typically less than $5 each. With its friendly locals and stunning landscapes, Thailand is a top travel destination for 2023.

Another affordable option is Portugal. This country has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. Its coastal cities, like Lisbon and Porto, offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and beach vibes. Portugal is also known for its affordable wine and food, so be sure to indulge in the local cuisine. Plus, with Portugal being one of the safest travel destinations in Europe, you can explore the cities and countryside without worry.

Affordability doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or safety. Do your research, plan ahead, and enjoy your adventure to the fullest!

Safest Travel Destinations for Summer 2023

As we plan our travels for the summer of 2023, safety should be a top priority. With ongoing global issues, it’s important to choose destinations that are safe and secure for tourists.

Luckily, there are many destinations around the world that prioritize the safety and security of their visitors. Some of the top safest travel destinations for summer 2023 include:

1. Japan – Known for its low crime rate and advanced safety measures, Japan is a great choice for those looking for a safe and peaceful travel experience. From bustling cities to serene countryside, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful country.

2. New Zealand – With its pristine natural landscapes and friendly locals, New Zealand is another top pick for safe travel. The country has low crime rates and a well-organized healthcare system, making it a great choice for families and solo travelers alike.

3. Switzerland – Known for its stunning mountain vistas and impeccable cleanliness, Switzerland is one of the safest destinations in Europe. The country’s efficient public transportation system and well-organized infrastructure make it easy to get around and enjoy all that it has to offer.

4. Canada – Canada is a vast country with diverse landscapes, friendly locals, and low crime rates. Whether you want to explore the cosmopolitan city of Toronto or venture out into the rugged wilderness of Banff National Park, you can rest assured that you’ll be safe and secure.

5. Singapore – With its modern infrastructure, strict laws, and efficient healthcare system, Singapore is one of the safest destinations in Asia. The city-state offers a unique blend of cultures and attractions, from futuristic skyscrapers to vibrant street markets.

It’s important to research and prepare thoroughly to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. By choosing one of these safest travel destinations, you can relax and focus on making memories that will last a lifetime.

The Best Places to Visit in 2023

Whether you’re an avid traveler or a novice wanderer, 2023 has some fantastic travel destinations that are not to be missed.

First on our list is the stunning country of Japan. This country has a rich cultural heritage and has preserved its traditions and customs despite being one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world. From exploring the bustling streets of Tokyo to visiting ancient temples and shrines, Japan offers a perfect blend of the old and the new.

Next up is Portugal, which is quickly gaining popularity as a top travel destination. This European country boasts gorgeous beaches, picturesque villages, and stunning architecture. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore the country’s rich history, Portugal is a great choice for 2023.

Another country that should be on your list for 2023 is Peru. Known for its incredible Machu Picchu ruins and breathtaking natural landscapes, Peru offers a truly unique travel experience. Visit the historic city of Cusco or take a hike in the Andes Mountains to fully immerse yourself in the culture and beauty of this country.

Finally, don’t forget about the beautiful country of Croatia. This hidden gem has quickly become a favorite among travelers due to its stunning coastline, beautiful islands, and charming old towns. With affordable prices and a laid-back atmosphere, Croatia is perfect for travelers looking to relax and soak up some sun.

These are just a few of the best places to visit in 2023. With so many incredible destinations to choose from, start planning your next travel adventure today! If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for your travel 2023, consider heading to Vietnam. This Southeast Asian country is home to stunning natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and a rich history and culture. From exploring bustling cities like Ho Chi Minh City to cruising through the stunning Halong Bay, Vietnam offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

But before you book your trip, it’s important to consider safety. One of the safest travel destinations for summer 2023 is New Zealand. This stunning country offers pristine natural landscapes, friendly locals, and a peaceful atmosphere. With strict safety measures in place, New Zealand has managed to keep its COVID-19 cases low, making it a top choice for travelers looking for a safe and worry-free travel experience.

Another safe travel destination for summer 2023 is Switzerland. This beautiful country is known for its stunning mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and charming towns. With strict COVID-19 safety measures in place, Switzerland is a great choice for travelers looking to explore the great outdoors while still feeling safe and secure.

No matter where you choose to travel 2023, make sure to prioritize your safety and budget. With so many incredible destinations to choose from, the world is truly your oyster. Happy travels!

Iceland, being a long awaited trip for both my nephew and I, we were excited to explores this island of glaciers, lava fields and hot springs.

We travelled by rental car once there and we highly recommend paying extra for the GPS system as in some areas your phone might not get a signal and you will be unable to use it for navigation.

Thank you to Europcar. https://www.europcar.is They had us ready to go in no time with some tips and a promotional Icelandic booklet with some great info.

As we were travelling during December 2021 we had limited sunlight during the day (5-6 hours approx)This caused an almost constant sunrise and sunset that had us admiring Icelands beautiful landscapes.

TIP Roundabouts are very normal in Iceland. We encountered over 50! So practice at home before you go.

If not going the rental car way here is a great link for adventure tours in Iceland.

https://iceland.nordicvisitor.com

As check in at the hotel wasn’t until 4 pm we set out for adventure in our rental car. First we stopped at Blaskogabyggo to see the Gullfoss falls (Golden Falls translated) and a few gorgeous landscapes along the way.

We continued onto the Haukadalur Geothermal Field. With the biting cold wind we patiently waited and witnessed a Geyser in action.

Geysir, Southern Icleand

A quick warm trip into the souvenir shop and off we continued on our adventure to checking into the 201 Hotel in Kópavogur, Iceland. https://201hotel.is

TIP: We chose hotels that included a continental breakfast to save on expenses. Hit the local grocery store for cheap snacks and bottled water. We even visited a Costco for the $3 hot dog and pop deal… and yes, even a Canadian Costco membership is accepted in Iceland.

After some inexpensive pepperoni pizza (Less than $25 Canadian for a Medium) and a great 12 hour nap we were ready to start our next day of adventures.

Our next stop was the Kerid Crater at Grimsness. There’s a great walk way all around so you can get a great view from any angle.

• 

• 

In need of some down time after more driving we finished off our day at the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa. Warm water surrounds you as you float around. Face masks are available as well as refreshments at the swim up bar. Inside there are fresh, dry towels available. For an extra cost you may purchase the use of a housecoat and slippers that you can hang outside.

Next day , after a wonderful ham and cheese croissant breakfast we ventured off into the city of Reykyavik for a day of souvenir shopping, tours and great food. So of course before light we found a great free parking spot for the day. On foot we came across a free walking tour of the city. Funded by donations only and approximately 1.5 to 2 hours long.

From the oldest building to the tallest tree we walked and listened to our friendly tour guide, Martin. We viewed famous buildings and statues, learned about Icelandic history and got tips on what to see and where to shop and dine in the city.

The last stop was the Phallological museum. In its new location, we notice that now you can also grab a bite to eat while there. Many specimens in jars from animals to yes, even a donated human penis is available for viewing. https://phallus.is/en/

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

We finshed our night at a recommended restaurant and feasted on delicious Icelandic fish. The meal was as delicious as it looks.

TIP Lunch can run you anywhere from $10 to $20 (Canadian) per person. Dinner – anywhere from $25 to $70 per person. Local stores like BONUS (the logo is a little pink pig), are great for snacks and affordable lunch items.

The second last day we started our drive north to Snaefellsjokull once again were surrounded by breathtaking beauty and finally to our delight wild life.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Last stop. Kirkjufell Mountain seen in Game of Thrones and the Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall.

• 

• 

We arrived at our last hotel Langaholt and were so happy with everything. Beautiful rooms, gorgeous view, restaurant on site and very peaceful (no televisions in the rooms). Once we made our dinner and breakfast reservations we settled in our room admiring the view from our private patio hoping to view the northern lights on our final night.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Waking up at 1:30 am and finally seeing the northern lights was the icing on the cake. No picture to prove it as it was faint. We stood there and took it in for almost half an hour until it faded.

NOTE: another reason to go back to Iceland. Get pictures of stronger norther lights.

I hope you enjoyed the pictures of our long awaited trip to Iceland. We highly recommend you visit. Everyone in super friendly and almost all speak excellent English and a few European languages. You will feel right at home as we did. It was difficult to leave such a beautiful country.

I will leave you with an uplifting adorable Icelandic song.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f88UJyCA__M

Get the facts about your travel options and learn how to protect yourself if you must travel.

• Maintain a distance of 6 feet (2 meters) between you and others as much as possible.
• Avoid contact with anyone who is sick
• Limit contact with frequently touched surfaces, such as handrails, elevator buttons and kiosks. If you must touch these surfaces, use hand sanitizer or wash your hands afterward.
• Wear a cloth face mask.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Cover coughs and sneezes.
• Clean your hands often. It’s especially important after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 30 seconds.
• If soap and water aren’t available, use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

Air travel

Because of air circulation on airplanes being filtered, most viruses won’t spread easily. But were there is overcrowding, there is also difficulty in social distancing. There are lots of lines to wait in that can bring you too close to others.

Most major airlines require that crews and passengers wear cloth face coverings. See the websites below to see the specific airports and their guidlines.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has increased cleaning and disinfecting equipment and surfaces at screening checkpoints. If you haven’t flown in a while, since the pandemic began, you will see these changes:

• TSA officers wearing masks and gloves, and practicing social distancing.
• TSA officers changing gloves after each pat-down.
• Plastic shields at document checking podium, bag search and drop off locations.
• Fewer travelers and, as a result, fewer open screening lanes.

Also there are changes to the screening process.

• Travelers may wear masks during screening. You may be asked to adjust your mask for identification purposes.
• Instead of handing your boarding passes to TSA officers, travelers are asked to place it directly on the scanner and hold up for their inspection.
• Each traveler is allowed one, up to 12 oz., container of hand sanitizer in a carry-on bag.
• Food should be kept in a plastic bag and placed in a bin for screening. Keep food out of carry-on to speed up screening and lessen chances of having your bags opened.
• To reduce handling of personal items such as keys, wallets and phones place them in your carry-on bags instead of bins.

Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 30 seconds (or two Happy Birthday songs) before and after going through screening.

Car travel

If you may prefer to drive and have more control over your environment still keep in mind safety along your stops.

Here are some tips for your journey:

• As few stops as possible unless you feel dizzy or tired.
• Bring lots of face masks, sanitizer and disinfectant wipes and keep in an easy to reach spot in the car.
• Bring your own food and water. This smart plan ahead reduces stops and contact with others. If you do need to stop for food opt for drive thru options.
• Remember to wipe the handles and buttons at gas stations. Wash hands for 30 seconds with soap when you get to your stop.

Other ground transportation

If your preference is bus or train, be aware of the longer period of sitting or standing close to others which can put you at a higher risk. Follow the Automobile travel tips for a safer journey.

If you do fly and need to rent a car research which car rental companies have disinfection policies. Shuttle service is also another option to get from the airport to your hotel.

If taking a taxi or ride share of any kind sit in the back and handle your own bags at pick up and drop off. Wipe surfaces with disinfectant wipes before touching them. Remember to wear your mask, social distance and wash your hands when you reach your destination.

Hotels and other lodging

The hotel industry is contributing to taking care of traveler’s safety. Major chains have websites with information on how they are protecting you and their staff against coronavirus. If you want to be extra safe you can request a room that has been vacant for at least 24 hours.

Hotels make your stay safer by:

• Enhanced cleaning of public areas, elevators, guest rooms, as well as food preparation and laundry areas
• Social distancing measures in the lobby, at the front desk and in parking areas
• Masking of staff and guests
• Contactless payment
• Focused employee training in the following:
  • Hand-washing procedures
  • Cleaning and disinfecting protocols
  • Use of personal protective equipment
• Protocol in the event that a guest becomes ill, which should include temporarily closing the guest’s room for cleaning and disinfecting

Vacation rental locations are doing the same to keep travellers safe. Their websites highlight the following of public health guidelines, such as using masks and gloves when cleaning. You will also notice staggered check in times to social distance people.

For your own safety you can also touch up your room with disinfectant wipes once you arrive (doorknobs, light switches, countertops, tables, desks, phones, remote controls and faucets). Wash plates, glasses, cups and silverware (other than prewrapped plastic items) before using.

Make a packing list

When it’s time to pack for your trip, grab any medicines you may need on your trip and these essential safe-travel supplies:

• Cloth face masks
• Alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol)
• Disinfectant wipes (at least 70% alcohol) for surfaces
• Thermometer

Considerations for people at increased risk

Anyone can get very ill from the virus that causes COVID-19, but older adults and people of any age with certain underlying medical conditions are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. Conditions that increase your risk include cancer, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, serious heart problems, sickle cell disease, type 2 diabetes and a weakened immune system.

Travel increases your chance of getting and spreading COVID-19. Staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. If you must travel, talk with your doctor and ask about any additional precautions you may need to take.

Remember safety first

Even the best plans may need to be set aside when illness strikes. If you feel sick before your planned travel, stay home except to get medical care.

.

.

Advertisement

Turkey is a country rich in history, hospitality, gorgeous backdrops and beautiful beaches. It is home to some of the oldest cultures and civilizations in the world.

Beautiful Sunshine

Visiting this Eastern Europe country will allow you to enjoy as much sunshine as you want. The sun shines in Turkey almost every day of the year. This kind of environment allows both locals and tourists to enjoy basking on the sandy beaches. It also provides a playground for water sports like parasailing, windsurfing, snorkelling and windsurfing.

Friendly People

When traveling, you want to feel comfortable and safe. Also, you may want to interact with the locals to learn more about your destination. The Turkish people offer hospitality to visitors. You won’t have to worry about finding directions because the majority of people in Turkey are always willing to offer help to tourists.

Good Shopping Experience

If you enjoy shopping, you might want to consider Turkey as your next travel destination. The country has multiple shopping malls and workshops that sell high-quality items. Turkish leather and carpets are world renowned for their durability and design.

Amazing Geography

Turkey also has a diverse landscape that makes it a great place for outdoor activities like parachuting, hot air ballooning, camping, hiking and sightseeing. If you enjoy going on adventures, there’s no doubt that Turkey is the place for you.

.

---

Advertiser Sponsor

 

Want the charm of Europe but close to home? If you live in Ontario then you are but a short train ride to Old Montreal.

For a girl’s three day getaway for my birthday we ventured off to Old Montreal in search of rest, shopping, great food, drink and lots of laughter. We definitely succeeded in accomplishing all. This beautiful place was more than I expected. With it ‘s European feel and French charm it found a little place in my heart. Great crepes, street music, quaint shops and a lovely evening horse and carriage ride. I knew I would be back again. Here are a few photos from our adventure. Merci beaucoup Montreal! by Adelka Molcan