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Friday Around

the Planet

December 30, 2022

This Week: It’s time to start looking ahead and dreaming of next year’s adventures. Find out the best months to visit our Best in Travel destinations for 2023.  

Where to go in 2023

January is a time for new beginnings — and travel planning. How else can I pack in as many trips as possible and still have enough vacation days to make it home for the holidays? Timing is everything when it comes to travel, and I want to make sure my trips align with ideal weather, epic events and plenty of time for exploration. Luckily, we’ve already charted out the best times to visit our Best in Travel 2023 winners. Let the planning begin!

— Alex Butler, Managing Editor

January: 12 of the best places to visit in Jamaica

January is peak tourism season in Jamaica, where beaches will be buzzing and the Rebel Salute music festival sets the vibe.

February: 7 days for the ultimate journey in Western Australia

Western Australia has a coastline dotted with stunning beaches and linked by epic drives. In February, kids are back in school, ending the busy summer holidays. It’s the perfect time for a road trip.

March: How to eat your way through Fukuoka, Japan

March is a great time to see Fukuoka. The city’s incredible food scene makes it a great place to experience year-round but March ushers in the cherry blossom season.

April: 7-day journey on the Trans Bhutan Trail

Spring in Bhutan is dry and clear, which makes it the perfect time to stop and take in views of the snow-capped Himalayas.

May: The top places you must visit in Malta: catacombs, clubs and clifftop walks

The days will be warm in May in Malta. Best of all, you'll be able to explore Valletta's winding streets or the islands’ coastlines without massive crowds.

June: 4 days to connect with Albania's Accursed Mountains

If you want a Mediterranean summer holiday without the crowds, look to Albania. This under-explored country will provide history, culture, mountains and beaches without the crowds.

July: The ultimate road trip through Nova Scotia, Canada

Sure, it’s the summer high season in Nova Scotia in July, but even at its busiest, this gorgeous slice of Canadian coast delivers on wide open spaces and is the perfect destination for a road trip.

August: 4 days in Kuala Lumpur: the perfect foodie itinerary

The summer high season is the driest time in Kuala Lumpur though there's never a bad time to sample the city’s incredible flavors and cultures.

September: 7 days to connect with Guyana’s unspoiled nature

Guyana has multiple rainy seasons, but September is one month where most of the country is dry, making it easy to travel into the depths of the lush rainforest.

October: Coastline, Winelands and fine dining in South Africa

In October, spring arrives in South Africa and travelers will get to enjoy the warming weather and delights of the country before the summer tourists arrive.

November: 4 perfect days in El Salvador

See Maya relics, volcanic scenery and historic towns as the dry season starts in November.

December: 4 days to learn about Dresden

If you want to lean into the charm of December, why not head to Dresden? This cool German city is undergoing plenty of urban renewal, and December means you can enjoy the beautiful Christmas markets.