Signature Travel Network’s EVP of luxury business development, Ignacio Maza, has visited all seven continents and well over a hundred countries. He is always in search of what’s next in travel. “Travelers are ready for new frontiers, seeking destinations that are unique, authentic, and well worth visiting,” said Maza. As the world continues to reopen, here is his list of places to visit in 2023.
Japan’s Kyoto has over a thousand temples, shrines and festivals, as well as moss, flowering, and rock gardens. Stroll the Gion and Higashiyama neighborhoods for handmade crafts or the freshest sushi. Visit the renovated Kiyomizu-Dera temple by day and take in the views from the K36 Rooftop bar at sunset. Enjoy an authentic stay in a Buddhist temple, a traditional Japanese Ryokan, or a luxurious pavilion at the new Aman Kyoto.
Bhutan recently reopened to visitors. Visit Punakha Dzong, one of the largest monasteries in Asia, and hike up to Tiger’s Nest, the country’s most emblematic site. Taste Bhutan’s spicy cuisine, trek the national parks, shop for handicrafts and wander through countryside markets.
In Sydney, Australia, swim in a rock pool with waves crashing, climb Harbour Bridge, go backstage at the Opera House, trace ancient footsteps with an Aboriginal cultural guide, or wander through The Rocks, the country’s oldest neighborhood. Taste Australia’s most awarded menus at Quay Restaurant within the inner harbor, catch the sunset at redesigned Aster rooftop bar, or have lunch at Cottage Point, arriving by floatplane.
Qatar has reinvented itself, inspired by the past and the future. Visit the Museum of Islamic Art, shop at the Souq Waqif Market or enjoy a desert camel ride at sunset. Marvel at the National Museum of Qatar, resembling a desert rose, and the Pearl, a manmade island that is the new Arabian Riviera.
Towering volcanoes, rainforests, humid wetlands and rich wildlife come together in Rwanda, the "Switzerland of Central Africa." Spot golden monkeys, lions, and the star attraction—mountain gorillas. Stay in style at One & Only’s luxury lodges, Gorilla’s Nest and Nyungwe House. Don’t miss visiting the King’s Palace in Nyanza, a reproduction of a traditional royal residence.
One of the world’s last frontiers, Greenland is best experienced by expedition ship, allowing visitors to experience stunning scenery, deep fjords, fishing villages and majestic mountains with all the creature comforts. Admire ancient Viking settlements, soak up the Inuit culture, hike along the coast or go kayaking in the land where it was first invented. A highlight is the Ilulissat, the UNESCO World Heritage ice fjord, called “birthplace of icebergs” by the native Inuit.
Move over, Tuscany. Italy’s upcoming star is Piedmont, home of Nutella, Asti Spumante, Nebbiolo D’Alba reds, and the finest truffles. Soak up the history of the royal Savoy dynasty in Turin, Italy’s first capital, wandering through the Venaria Reale palace. Explore the glorious Langhe countryside, its vineyards and medieval hill towns. Don’t miss the beautiful lakes, Maggiore and Orta. Stay at Hotel Villa e Palazzo Aminta or Villa Crespi.
Canada’s British Columbia has something for everyone—outdoor sports and adventures, sophisticated Vancouver and Victoria, wines in the Okanagan region, mountain landscapes and winter sports in Whistler. Connect with 200-plus First Nations communities, meeting indigenous people with the knowledge and heritage going back thousands of years. Stay at Klahoose Wilderness Resort in the Great Bear Rainforest owned by the Klahoose First Nation.
Ecuador’s mainland packs a punch, including Quito and Cuenca, the country’s remarkable UNESCO World Heritage colonial cities, active volcanoes, traditional handicraft markets, outdoor pursuits, an Inca archeological site, and delicious menus from every region and altitude.
Charleston, SC, keeps reinventing itself with a spirited dining scene and new hotels. Charleston’s living history is everywhere—in plantation estates, historic churches and renovated antebellum homes, some dating to the 1740s. Slow down with a horse-drawn carriage ride, relax in trendy rooftop bar or unwind at a barrier island beach.
This spotlight on must-visit destinations is just a sample of the varied experiences Signature members can sell by working with its curated collection of preferred partners.
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