Looking for a change to your usual getaway? Say no more! We’ve scoured some of our dreamiest holidays to reveal beautiful bucket list destinations that are ready and waiting to be explored, making you new and amazing memories in 2023.
From suave cities to pretty, peaceful pieces of paradise, these are the places you need to head to to feel like you’ve uncovered some seriously spectacular spots…
Antalya, Turkey
If you want somewhere that turns up the heat, say no more than Antalya in toasty Turkey. This area is actually known as the Turkish Riviera, famous for its stunning old town and beautiful beaches.
You’ve got the best of both world’s here – contemporary hotels boasting the best in first-class facilities, but with all the history and charm of the fascinating Old Quarter, Kaleici.
Beach lovers will be in their element, with the lovely Lara each right on your doorstep. At almost five miles long, it’s one of the longest beaches in Turkey, with a long list of fun activities on offer too. There’s even an annual sandcastle festival here – and it’s taken very seriously!
We especially love Kemer, a little seaside resort residing in the Antalya region, known for its stunning scenery where the waves, mountains and pine forests all roll into one. It’s also one of southern Turkey’s most important archeological sites, and also sits at the foothills of Olympos Beydaglari National Park. A cable car to the top of Tahtali Mountain is a must!
Where to stay?
Opt for the Rixos Sungate hotel, and you’ll be in a land of luxury from the moment you arrive. A five-star resort situated in Kemer, you’ll be spoiled with fantastic facilities, from 12 pretty pools to swish cabanas on the beach. The stylish rooms and range of activities are pretty hard to beat too.
On top of that, you get FREE entry to the Land of Legends theme park, free transportation there and back, and in the summer the hotel even hosts outdoor concerts with world class DJs too. The Rixos Sungate is pretty hard to top!
Rome, Italy
We bet you’re thinking – is Rome really a hidden gem? Maybe not – but there certainly are plenty of hidden gems to discover within it!
Of course you can visit all the usual suspects – the captivating Colosseum, the trickling Trevi Fountain and the impressive podiums of the Pantheon. But there’s so much more to be seen and discovered in Rome aside from its most famous landmarks.
The beauty of Rome is that there’s amazing ruins all over the city – ancient history is quite literally its DNA. Take the Teatro Marcello for example – a mini Colosseum that most people aren’t even aware of, but just as impressive when you stumble upon it!
A true hidden spot perfect for a drink in dreamy surroundings, has to be within the Eitch Borromini – a luxury hotel overlooking the iconic Piazza Navona. Make your way to the terrace bar and you’ll be rewarded with stunning 360 degree views, with St Peter’s Basilica, Piazza Venezia and the Pantheon in the distance. This secluded spot makes you feel like you have Rome all to yourself.
If you do want to take in Rome’s most renowned and iconic areas, keep in mind that this popular city can get crowded easily, with so many people vying for the best spot in front of each landmark.
One of our top tips for visiting Rome to feel like you’re exploring the city all on your own, is to beat the crowds and get up early – it’s a totally different experience, and a totally different view.
Instead of hundreds or thousands of people filling your view, you’ll be able to stand back and actually soak up the beauty of your surroundings as they truly are. The Trevi Fountain can easily become the most crowded spot, but at 7am it’s a different story – plenty of space to sit and gaze at the glorious turquoise waters.
Where to stay?
Unahotels Deco Roma is the perfect retreat for exploring all this eternal city has to offer. Located right near Termini Station, reaching all of Rome’s main sights is as simple as can be – and ideal if you wish to visit further afield on the train, too.
All of Rome’s main attractions are within walking distance. A 15-minute stroll will have you standing in front of the Colosseum, and it’s only a 20 minute walk to the Trevi Fountain. Perfect!
The hotel boasts an incredible selection of food and drinks to replenish you after a busy day exploring on foot, and is renowned for its exceptional customer service. When in Rome…stay here!
Aphrodite Hills, Cyprus
Cyprus is one of Brits’ most-loved summer holiday destinations, with most people heading to lively Ayia Napa, lovely Limassol or pretty Paphos. But have you ever heard of Aphrodite Hills?
Located close to Paphos, this coastal resort really shows off the beauty this idyllic island has to offer – and the hotels in this area have a really luxurious, exclusive feel to them.
As you can probably guess by the name, this lush location’s history is steeped in Greek mythology, with it being known as the birthplace of the Goddess Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love..
Head to the beach here and you’ll see first hand the beauty of this place, with a unique rock formation rising out of the water, known as Aphrodite’s Rock. It’s said if you swim around it three times, you’ll find true love!
You’ll certainly fall head over heels with your surroundings on this part of the island – the whole resort is set on a beautiful hill with panoramic views overlooking the glistening Mediterranean sea.
It’s also home to the first and only Golf resort in Cyprus, allowing for the prettiest of views as you practice your putt.
This hidden away hillside is perfect for making your holiday feel special and secluded, but still close enough to Paphos city centre that you can head there if you want more hustle and bustle.
Where to stay?
TUI BLUE Sensatori Resort Atlantica Aphrodite Hills is as sophisticated as it sounds, being the perfect retreat for some serious R&R.
The hotel combines classic with contemporary, and stands out with a host of luxe rooms, swim ups and suites. It’s also the crown jewel of this collection, boasting more restaurants than any other TUI BLUE Sensatori with an impressive nine – four of which are included in the All Inclusive offering.
The pools here come with pretty infinity edges, and there’s an adult-only spot too. There’s a splash pool, complete with slides for little ones, and an impressive activity roster to match if you’re looking to keep active.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
It’s no news that Mexico is one of the most beautiful places on earth, and one of our ultimate long haul destinations.
Many holidays here will have you heading to the party capital of Cancun or relaxing in Riviera Maya. But we’re here to tell you there’s somewhere else to try – Puerto Vallarta.
Right over on the other side of Mexico and securing a spot on Mexico’s Pacific coast lies this lesser-known, but no less impressive, city.
With a stunning promenade bringing together the best of what this country has to offer in terms of food, fiery drinks and fantastic atmosphere, you’ll wonder why you never visited here sooner.
The Malecon boardwalk’s hidden charm has to be experienced on foot – this pedestrian-only promenade spans over a mile and will have you tucking into tasty cuisine and feasting your eyes on amazing displays of art.
You’ll have the most scenic seaside stroll imaginable, feeling the breeze in your hair as you walk along a striking contemporary structure that leads out into the middle of the sea. There’s nothing quite like it!
You’ll also find a lively amphitheatre where nightly dances by locals takes place, that’s on top of captivating street musicians, performers, and delicious street vendors cooking up Mexican favourites, luring your taste buds in with amazing aromas. Mmm!
Away from the coastline, Puerto Vallarta is a backdrop of gorgeous greenery. The Sierra Madre Mountains are within easy reach, where you can get stuck into a whole host of exciting adventures – think abseiling or zooming about on ziplines!
This part of Mexico is also known for its family-owned tequila distilleries, where you can do your own bit of tequila tasting. Cheers!
Where to stay?
Dreams Bahia Mita Surf and Spa is a 5 star resort in Puerto Vallarta with a beautiful beachfront plot as well as a dreamy pool scene.
With two infinity pools and two family pools, this hotel caters perfectly for both adults and kids, with an adults only option that’s fitted with water jets and a swim up bar.
Food and drink in Mexico is always on another level, and this hotel is no different – you’ve got your pick of seven restaurants and seven bars.
The kids’ club is one-of-a-kind, hosting things like movie nights and sandcastle building competitions. And there’s plenty on the cards for adults too, from watersports to beach volleyball and tequila tasting!
Agadir, Morocco
Morocco is often a forgotten holiday marvel – but with soaring temperatures, picturesque beaches and African charm, it makes for a gorgeous getaway any time of year.
Located close to the Canary Islands which lie off the coast of North Africa, Agadir will surprise you with its colourful crescent beach that stretches for six miles as well as its seaside promenade, all in the foothills of the Anti-Atlas mountains.
In Agadir, you’ll find the old meets the new – it’s got a modern feel on the outside, revealing colourful bazaars and spice-scented souks on the inside.
The Souq al-Had in Agadir is the largest souk in all of Morocco, boasting an unbelievable 3,000 stalls – so prepare to feast your eyes upon amazing fresh produce and sparkling souvenirs!
It’s the perfect spot to explore with a partner, walking hand in hand eyeing up bargains, bartering your best price, all as colourful lanterns hang from the ceiling and delicious aromas awaken your senses. It’s a true taste of Morocco!
You’ll get to taste and buy local products, from sweet smelling Moroccan pastries to the amazing flavour of Amlou, a sweet, nectar-coloured dip native to Morocco.
Agadir is Morocco’s premier holiday destination for good reason – it won’t take long for you to discover why!
Where to stay?
If you’re looking for an enchanting getaway just the two of you, it has to be TUI BLUE Riu Tikida Beach. This adults only escape will have you swimming in serene pools, lapping up luxury spa treatments and enjoying romantic meals on an el fresco terrace.
Enjoy your favourite tipple at the swim up bar, or have fun mixing things up a bit with a cocktail-making class!
Its location offers the best of both worlds – it’s less than a mile away to the centre of Agadir, where you’ll find an array of beautiful bars, shops and restaurants, but far enough away that you get the feel you’re on a relaxing retreat.
Enjoy scenic strolls along the hotel’s beachfront promenade, feast on fine-dining in the Culinarium restaurant or try authentic flavours in the Moroccan eatery. This hotel has everything you need for a superb stay.
Where will you go in 2023?
We hope you’ve gathered plenty of inspiration for this year’s holiday plans! No matter where you choose to go, we have amazing deals to get you there.
Start the search for your getaway today – and uncover these hidden gems for yourself!
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