My 2023 Blue-Sky Travel Destinations

It’s time to start dreaming of travel destinations for 2023! As the travel situation post-pandemic continues to improve, the possibilities for trips keep expanding. Between quick getaways and the desire to finally check off some bucket-list destinations, 2023 holds the potential for some amazing travel for me. And I’m hoping to finally set foot in a new country this spring- something I haven’t done for several years! Here’s where I’m hoping to head:

Puerto Rico, United States

First up, the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico. Although I’ve been to PR in the past, it’s been several years since I made the (relatively) easy trip south from the east coast of the United States. A getaway in early February, taking in pristine beaches, the incredibly diverse ecosystems of the island, and lots of Boricua culture, will be just the ticket for the winter blues. I’m especially looking forward to exploring more of El Yunque National Rainforest, kayaking in the bioluminescent bay of La Parguera, and strolling the sunny streets of historic Old San Juan.

Crete, Greece

This is definitely one of the bucket-list destinations of the year. While Greece has always been on my radar, I have to confess it wasn’t terribly high up on my list of places I wanted to visit: the fear of overly touristy or party-heavy areas kept me from looking into it seriously. However, the more I’ve researched this incredible and ancient country, the more I’m convinced it is possible to have a variety of experiences depending on the location and time of year in which you visit. I fell in love with the prospect of the island of Crete, with its charming and historic towns of Chania and Rethimno and extensive natural beauty found in its gorges and coastlines. Thinking of visiting is keeping me going through the cold winter months!

The Loire Valley, France

The Loire Valley was a bit of a last-minute addition to this list! I’ll be headed to Paris for a wedding in July, but I’m hoping this visit is also a chance to get out of the capital and explore a region of France I’ve not been to before. This area of central France is home to storybook-pretty villages, stunning natural scenery, and, of course, world-class vineyards. And with more than three hundred chateaux, I’ll be able to get my fill of French history as well! I’m just hoping it won’t be sweltering that time of year- fingers crossed.

Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia, United States

I’ve been thinking about Colonial Williamsburg as a long weekend destination for a while, and I think this is the year to finally do it. Branding itself as the world’s largest living history museum, Colonial Williamsburg gives visitors a glimpse into life in early America, making sure to also amplify the stories of the enslaved and native peoples who interacted with European settlers. With interactive demonstrations, seasonal displays, and a number of museums on site, Colonial Williamsburg looks like the perfect destination for a multi-day visit. It’s easily paired with visits to the historic sites of Yorktown and Jamestown, so I might just complete America’s Historic Triangle while I’m there.

Where are you headed this year? Have you been to any of these destinations? I’d love to hear from you!