WHERE in the world WILL YOU GO?
From idyllic islands to buzzing cities, discover what’s hot for the new year
WITH so many new flight routes, hotel openings and immersive experiences to explore, the toughest decision when booking your next holiday is choosing where to go.
The world has flung its doors open once again, and is ready to give travellers the red-carpet treatment. Cities gleam with fabulous dining experiences and new hotel concepts. Glittering resorts are popping up along coastlines of powdered sands and islands are combining castaway fun with authentic cultural experiences.
British Airways Holidays has named its list of the most exciting destinations for 2023, and there is something for everyone. So if you’re looking for a little inspiration, why not try one of these hot spots?
LAS VEGAS, USA
The neon playground of America, the Las Vegas Strip hums from morning until night with show-stopping hotels, high-stakes casinos and incredible world-class entertainment seven days a week. You’ll find unbeatable food, classic cocktails and a nightlife that never stops.
How to get there: London HEATHROW: DAILY FLIGHTS; London Gatwick: three TIMES A WEEK FROM THE END OF MARCH-OCTOBER, 2023.
BARBADOS
From its glittering west coast to the pristine Atlantic beaches of the east coast – a favourite spot for surfers – Barbados is a Caribbean dream. Add to nature’s riches a vibrant cultural scene, great music and delicious food, and you may just want to stay forever. No wonder Barbados is offering a visa that allows digital nomads to live there for a year.
How to get there: London Heathrow: direct daily FLIGHTS; LONDON GATWICK: FOUR FLIGHTS A WEEK DURING WINTER.
IBIZA, SPAIN
The White Isle isn’t all parties and beach clubs. A slew of new hotels is tapping into its bohemian spirit, offering luxurious stays and in-house DJs alongside morning yoga classes, indulgent spa treatments and farm-to-table food. Treat yourself to a Balearic break and find the perfect balance.
How to get there:
LONDON CITY, LONDON GATWICK and London Heathrow: daily FLIGHTS THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER.
MAURITIUS
This paradise isle has dreamy beaches and glamorous hotels, but adventurers can also enjoy canyoning and rainforest ziplining, kite surfing and quad biking. Hike to explore rainforests, mountains and thundering waterfalls, and head underwater to swim with colourful marine life.
How to get there: London GATWICK: THREE FLIGHTS A WEEK.
CHICAGO, USA
Perched on the shores of Lake Michigan, this hub of dazzling skyscrapers may be an architectural feast, but the food is also amazing in the Windy City. On the famed Restaurant Row you’ll find the city’s best joints, whether you’re craving sugar-dusted bakes, authentic Mexican cuisine or Chicago’s legendary deep-dish pizza.
How to get there: London HEATHROW: TWO FLIGHTS DAILY.
CYPRUS
Step away from the crystalline waters and soft sands of this island’s idyllic beaches and discover its equally enthralling interior. Here you’ll find lush mountains and lost-in-time villages, archaeological sites and impressive mosaics. Stay on the west coast for hotels offering awe-inspiring sunsets.
How to get there: REGULAR DIRECT FLIGHTS FROM LONDON TO PAPHOS AND LARNACA.
ALGARVE, PORTUGAL
With its ribbons of golden sands lapped by clear waters, rolling countryside, golf courses galore and charming resort towns, this Portuguese beach spot is a favourite with families. Vilamoura, Quinta do Lago and Albufeira are popular spots, but quieter Tavira is known as the Venice of the Algarve and Ria Formosa is home to stunning wetlands.
How to get there: London GATWICK: YEAR ROUND UP TO 17 FLIGHTS A WEEK; LONDON HEATHROW: YEAR ROUND UP TO 13 FLIGHTS A WEEK; LONDON CITY: UP TO FIVE FLIGHTS A WEEK IN THE SUMMER MONTHS.
CANCUN, MEXICO
With dazzling white sands, Caribbean waters and Mayan ruins, not to mention mouthwatering cuisine and magnificent hotels, it’s no wonder this Mexican town has become a favourite spot for beach lovers. The beaches unfurl all along the Mayan Riviera, where new hotels are popping up to offer ever more sensational stays. How to get there: London GATWICK: DAILY FLIGHTS.
TENERIFE
Known as the island of eternal spring for its balmy, year-round temperatures, Tenerife is famed for its shores of soft sands. But it is also a fantastic place for adventure. Crowned by Mount Teide, Spain’s tallest peak, this Canary Island offers hiking and mountain biking through volcanic scenery, whale watching, scuba diving and charming, colourful towns to explore.
How to get there: London GATWICK: DAILY FLIGHTS; LONDON HEATHROW: DAILY FLIGHTS.
DUBAI
There is always something new happening in Dubai. Its skyline jostles with gleaming skyscrapers sprouting from the sands, and sweeping beaches are dotted with fabulous hotels. But it is also a city of ancient traditions, where you can explore the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, dine on Emirati feasts and explore fragrant souks. How to get there: London HEATHROW: THREE FLIGHTS DAILY.
NEW YORK, USA
The Big Apple is a grand dame of both silver screen and stage. Whether you visit for her A-list credentials, rich culture, or the fabulous food and fashion scenes, this is a city to fall in love with. From the chic Upper East Side to the cool streets of the West Village, you’ll feel that unmistakable New York energy with every step.
How to get there: London HEATHROW: 16 FLIGHTS DAILY.
DALAMAN, TURKEY
In Dalaman, set on what is known as Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, the water gleams brilliant blue and there are endless sandy beaches to explore, all set against a mountain backdrop. Take to the water for sailing and snorkelling, try stand-up paddleboarding or head inland for hiking and mud baths.
How to get there: London GATWICK: SIX FLIGHTS A WEEK FROM MARCH; LONDON HEATHROW: THREE FLIGHTS A WEEK FROM MAY.
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
The Dominican Republic offers much more than just pristine beaches and swaying palms. It combines soaring mountains with thundering waterfalls, deserts with tropical rainforests. Its charming historical capital – the first city in Spain’s so-called New World – is a delight, and there are hotels for every type of traveller.
How to get there: London GATWICK: THREE FLIGHTS A WEEK.
MALDIVES
Offering the ultimate castaway experience on its sandy islands and atolls, this archipelago can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you are looking for unbridled opulence or more of a barefoot luxury feel, you’ll find an island resort for you. With options for families and romantic escapes, today’s resorts have a strong focus on sustainability and cultural experiences. How to get there: London HEATHROW: DAILY FLIGHTS IN WINTER AND NEW SUMMER FLIGHTS THREE TIMES A WEEK.
DUBROVNIK, CROATIA
A medieval city encircled by sturdy walls and looking out to sea, this Adriatic pearl has starred in more films and TV series than your average actor. The perfect destination to combine a city and beach break, you can opt for city hotel or a coastal escape with lush gardens and glittering infinity pools. How to get there: London Gatwick AND LONDON HEATHROW: UP TO 13 FLIGHTS A WEEK IN SUMMER.