Are you feeling the urge to travel and explore new destinations? You’re not alone. With pent-up demand and a strong desire for adventure, both domestic and international travel are on the rise this year. From long weekend getaways to bucket-list trips abroad, travelers are seeking enriching and educational experiences that create lasting memories.
To help you plan your next vacation, we’ve consulted with travel experts to compile a list of top travel ideas. Whether you’re looking for a historical vacation or a luxurious cruise, there’s something for everyone. So, dust off your suitcase, grab your passport, and get ready to travel big this year.
Ogunquit, Maine
If you’re looking for a peaceful vacation spot in North America, Ogunquit, Maine is a great option. Located on the southern coast of Maine, this New England town offers miles of scenic sandy beaches, sprawling rocky cliffs, and tree-lined streets.
The Dunes on the Waterfront is a great place to stay during your visit to Ogunquit. The property features 36 cozy accommodations set on 12 acres of oceanfront lawns, including vintage New England whitewashed cottages spaced apart for ultimate privacy, and a two-story hotel-style building, all complete with outdoor sitting areas. The property is set to re-open with a complete renovation for the 2024 summer season.
After visiting Ogunquit, you can make your vacation into a road trip by venturing south for stops in Boston or Newport, RI.
U.S. National Parks
National parks in the United States are a popular destination for domestic travelers. According to the National Park Service, there were 325.5 million recreation visits to 400 national parks in 2023. This increase in visitors is a sign of a return to more typical vacation travel post-pandemic, as travelers take in the beauty of national parks and enjoy the great outdoors.
Some of the most popular national parks include Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, Yosemite National Park in California, Yellowstone National Park in Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming, Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina and Tennessee, and George Washington Memorial Park in Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. These parks offer a variety of activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.
Tokyo
If you’re looking for a destination that has been gaining momentum since borders reopened, Tokyo is a great option. According to Expedia flight data, the Los Angeles to Tokyo route was one of the fastest-growing routes last year, with demand up 430% year-over-year. Japan is a true year-round destination, with cherry blossoms blooming in the spring and ski resorts beckoning in the winter months. To plan the best trip, it’s recommended to choose a tour operator or experienced travel agent who can help create the itinerary of your dreams.
London
If you’re planning a trip to Europe, London is a must-see destination. With direct flights from several East Coast hubs, it’s easy to get there, and with some flexibility in your travel dates, you can find favorable airline fares. London is a city that is easy to navigate using public transportation, and it boasts history, art, royalty, afternoon tea, and traditional fish and chips.
To make the most of your trip, it’s recommended that you visit the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, Big Ben, Thames River, London Eye, Borough Market, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and Trafalgar Square. To streamline your visit, consider purchasing the London Pass by Go City, which offers access to several attractions at a discounted rate. You can also book tours through respected local tour operators.
For lodging, check out The Londoner, a boutique hotel located in the heart of Leicester Square. This stylish retreat makes for an ideal home base for your London trip.
The Greek Islands
The Greek Islands offer a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and gastronomic delights, making them a popular destination for travelers worldwide. With a temperate climate, visitors can enjoy leisure and recreational activities both on land and sea. Santorini, Mykonos, and Athens are some of the most famous islands in Greece, attracting tourists from all over the world.
Greece is an ideal destination for a group of friends looking to explore charming villages, lounge on white sand beaches, and dance at lively tavernas at night. Greece is one of the more affordable European countries, making it an attractive option for travelers planning a graduation or birthday trip.
Island hopping packages make it easy for travelers to visit multiple islands on one trip. Visitors can indulge in delicious bites and experience the rich culture of Greece while enjoying picturesque blue waters and ancient streets.
Here are some of the top attractions in the Greek Islands:
- Ancient ruins in Athens
- White sand beaches in Mykonos
- Delicious bites in Santorini
- Charming villages and lively tavernas
- Picturesque blue waters and ancient streets
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventure-packed trip, the Greek Islands have something for everyone.
Cruises to Alaska
If you’re planning a cruise this spring or summer, Alaska is a popular destination that you should consider. More cruise lines are sailing to the region than ever before. As a result, the Alaska cruise season is starting earlier and ending later, with additional sailings being added to accommodate the demand.
Cruise lines are offering a variety of options to suit your preferences and needs. You can choose to travel on a larger, mainstream ship with plenty of entertainment options for kids and adults alike. Alternatively, you can opt for a smaller, luxury line that offers a more intimate experience and allows you to explore the wilderness during the day and enjoy a five-star quality experience onboard in the evening. If you prefer a more rugged experience, you can also travel on an expedition ship.
A trip to Alaska can be a romantic getaway, a family vacation, a group trip, or an adventure of a lifetime. For a luxurious experience, Crystal Cruises is an excellent option. Crystal Cruises is returning to Alaska for the first time since 2019 and offers several seven-night itineraries from Vancouver to Seward or vice versa. These itineraries visit some of the most popular destinations in the region, including Sitka and Juneau, and offer scenic sailing.
In summary, Alaska is a popular destination for cruises, and there are many options available to suit your preferences and needs. With more cruise lines sailing to the region than ever before, you can easily find a cruise that fits your schedule and budget.
The Northern Lights
You can fulfill your bucket list dreams by chasing the Northern Lights this year. A recent survey by Expedia shows that almost half of Americans are interested in this adventure. The visibility is expected to be particularly strong over the next 12-18 months. Expedia flight searches indicate that Lapland in Finland, Canada’s Churchill, and Alta in Norway are the most popular destinations. Lapland in Finland has seen a whopping 370% increase in interest, while Churchill and Alta have seen a 110% and 100% increase respectively.
Quebec City
If you’re looking for a taste of Europe without the long flight, Quebec City is the perfect destination. Searches for this enchanting city have increased by 75% year over year, and it’s only a quick two-hour flight from the East Coast. In addition to its European charm, Quebec City boasts a thriving arts scene and culinary delights. After a day of sightseeing and indulging in the local cuisine, you can enjoy a luxurious stay at the beautiful Fairmont Le Château Frontenac.
