The Travellers Awards from TripAdvisor every year mostly bring given destinations on the lists, but this year at least one of the entries in the "Top Choices of Destinations for Travels in 2023", was a little surprising to us. It's always interesting to see Travel Trends and which destinations tourists prefer. Are any of the entered Destinations on Your personal Bucket List for Travel?
The Team at Food and Travel Guides
Ps/ You can head over to TripAdvisor to see more Travel lists. With that said, having San Sebastian (or Donostia as it's called in Spain) in 17th place in the category "Destinations to Travel for Food" is ridiculous. Anything else than a top three is wrong. And yes, we think that San Sebastian is a fantastic Food Destination for Food Travelers!/ Ds
Table of Content: "10 Best Destinations to Travel in 2023"
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Dubai - Worldclass Sightseeing and Shopping
Dubai in the United Arab Emirates as a popular tourist destination has been rising for years. Known for its luxury shopping, modern architecture, and beautiful beaches, this destination falls on many travelers' lips when talking Bucket Lists. Some of the most well-known and iconic sights in Dubai include the very impressive Burj Khalifa, also known as the tallest building in the world. Other popular tourist attractions include Palm Jumeirah, the man-made island in the shape of a palm tree, and the huge Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in the world! If your reason to travel is to shop until you drop, Dubai sure could be one of the best places to go.
Dubai International Food Scene
But while our reasons to travel here at Food and Travel Guides always will be to experience a destination's food culture or restaurants, we will include some foodie tips on every destination for restaurants and local cuisines. Enjoy.
At.mosphere This restaurant is located on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa and without saying, we are pretty sure you understand that you will have an amazing view of Dubai City. It serves international food of good quality with a breathtaking view.
Nusr-Et Nusr-Et is a famous steakhouse chain that is focused on high-quality meats to be indulged in an extravagant and luxurious atmosphere.
Zuma One of the most popular Japanese restaurants of many in Dubai City with a menu focusing on sushi and traditional Japanese dishes of the Ryori Cuisine.
Rang Mahal As the name reveals, an Indian restaurant, beautifully located with a menu focused on a refined version of traditional Indian cuisine.
La Petite Maison If Mediterranean food is up your sleeve, you should check out La Petite Maison with a menu focused on French and Italian cuisine.
Bali - a Temple and Vitamin Sea Lovers Paradise
Bali, the Indonesian island in the sun, is well-known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and some of the most stunning temples in the world. Visit the Tanah Lot Temple, which is a Hindu temple set on a rocky outcropping in the sea, or the Uluwatu Temple, a stunning cliff-top temple, and a nature reserve complete with a Hindu temple complex as well as wildlife at Utbud Monkey Forest. After your need for temple history and mindfulness, we guess, is filled for the moment, head to one of the hundreds of photogenic beaches to relax and have fun in the water. But don't forget to eat!
Eating at Bali Restaurants
Mozaic A visit to the highly-praised restaurant Mozaic is recommended both for the mix of French and Indonesian cuisine and the restaurant's lush and beautiful garden setting.
Metis Another of the restaurants is set in a green, relaxing garden with a French and Italian Mediterranean Food concept.
Sardine This Seafood Restaurant focuses on fresh, local cuisine and seafood with a beautiful beach setting to top it off.
Locavore Is also a restaurant that has become popular with its menu focused on a more modern take on Indonesian cuisine.
London - a Vibrant City steeped in History and Culture
London is probably one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world today, even if the lovely TripAdvisors Traveller's wants to put London in third place in 2023. With a rich history, multifaceted culture, and diverse community, London is a city that will make a memorable mark in your life. Some of the most well-known sights in London include Buckingham Palace, of course, the London Eye, the giant Ferris wheel making a well-recognized silhouette on the South Bank of the Thames, and the Tower of London, the historic castle and former Royal Palace.
As for restaurants, there are too many options to choose from in London. Jokes aside, that would never be a problem! Even how much we love the Local Pubs, the food there isn't that great even if there are some Gastro Pubs worth visiting. And there are Food Markets, Fish and Chips, and Street Food to appreciate but while in London our eyes are drawn to some of the many Michelin-starred restaurants.
Michelin-Starred London Restaurants to visit
Gordon Ramsay With an overall world record in Michelin Stars for his restaurants, Gordon Ramsay's modern British cuisine is a tasty experience with three Michelin stars you should try at least once in your Foodie Life.
The Ledbury The Ledbury in Notting Hill has two Michelin stars and is focusing on a modern twist on French Cuisine in its Tasting Menu.
The Fat Duck Three-Michelin-starred The Fat Duck is located in Bray, Berkshire but must be on the list of Restaurants in London for its innovative, exceptional, and extraordinary take on modern European cuisine that is significant for the genius of Chef Heston Blumenthal.
Rome - a Gem of Ancient History and Stunning Architecture
Rome is without a doubt one of the richest places on Earth when it comes to history, culture, and ancient architecture. Buildings like the Colosseum amphitheater from the Roman Empire, the whole Vatican City, which also happens to be the smallest country in the world and home to St. Peter's Basilica, or the Pantheon, an ancient temple turned into a church, are just scratching the surface of what Rome has to offer.
Also, being one of the World's Most Influential Cuisines, Rome is a perfect destination to experience some of the best food in the world. When in Rome, be sure to eat the history, and with saying that; go for Cucina Italiana!
Traditional Roman Cuisine and Trattorias
Roscioli Traditional Roman cuisine inside one historical restaurant and deli, just a few steps from Campo de' Fiori. Intimate, genuine, and a treat for cheese and wine lovers.
Osteria del Pegno Another very popular Trattoria if you're into the Mediterranean Diet. Be sure to eat like an Italian; Primo to start, with a Secondo or Piatto Unico and some Contorni to go along with it, with some Fromaggio to the last wine in the glass, and end the meal with some delicious Dulce. Eating Italian will take a while...but is always worth the food coma!
La Pergola Here you'll find a restaurant with three Michelin Stars and La Pergola's menu is focused on Mediterranean cuisine that has made Italy famous for its food.
Pizzeria Da Baffetto If you want to experience Pizza in the Italian way, Da Baffetto is a popular pizzeria with a menu focused on traditional Roman-style pizza, thin and crusty.
Trattoria da Enzo al 29 In a charming atmosphere, Trattoria da Enzo al 29 does traditional Roman cuisine and is known to be an authentic Trattoria.
Paris - the City of Light and Love, Food and Arts
To travel to Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower, one of the most iconic landmarks of Paris is impossible. The silhouette is always present and offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck if you're not afraid of heights. A visit to the Louvre Museum is a must, being one of the most famous museums in the world, and home to many famous works of art such as the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. Stroll on the Champs-Élysées offering a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. When in Paris you also must visit Montmartre, the very charming hilltop neighborhood, known for its bohemian atmosphere, the famous Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and the panoramic views of the city, but also to see some Street Art and infuse the vibe of the iconic film "Amelie from Montmartre".
Top French Restaurants in Paris
L'ambroisie A three-Michelin-starred restaurant with a menu focused on the traditional French cuisine that is the very heritage of a lot of cooking throughout the world. Expensive due to an overflowing use of truffle and expensive ingredients, but is worth a visit if you're into Fine Dining the French Way.
L'Astrance Another three-Michelin-starred restaurant with a more contemporary setting, but it's still expensive though.
Septime Septime is a popular, modern, and more casual restaurant that offers Tasting Menus at a more "reasonable" price. Lunch in 5 steps and Dinner in 7 steps.
Le Comptoir du Relais Embraces the Local and Market ingredients in a more rustic way. Doesn't take bookings so some advice can be to check for opening hours and get there early.
Le Jules Verne If you want some modern French Cuisine with a view, this is the restaurant to go. Located in the Eifel Tower this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a stunning view of Paris.
Cancún - Endless Sunshine and Crystal Clear Waters
Cancun in Mexico is one of the most popular tourist destinations if you're a "sun addict" and want to relax on beautiful beaches with turquoise waters, but also want to have a vibrant nightlife. Delfines Beach is probably one of the most famous beaches with crystal clear waters, and the Coco Bongo Show & Disco, despite the "tacky" name, is a quite popular entertainment venue with live music and performances. Cancún also offers historical sights beyond beaches. El Rey Ruins is an ancient Mayan archaeological site that is a travel tip for the traveler that wants to know more about the Mayan Culture.
Casual and Fine Dining in Cancún
La Habichuela La Habichuela means Beach Whale which could be a little confusing as this is a romantic and unique restaurant with a menu focused on traditional Mexican and Mayan cuisine.
Casa Rolandi Casa Rolandi offers Seafood and Mediterranean cuisine in a beautiful setting on Punta Cancun, with the sea on both sides of the restaurant.
The Surfin Burrito On The Surfing Burrito Californian cuisine and a casual atmosphere is King. Burritos, obviously, but also nice drinks and Cocktails. Open 24 hours so be sure to eat Breakfast Burritos here as well!
Harry's Prime Steakhouse & Raw Bar This is a restaurant for the true Carnivore! With Kobe, Black Onyx, and USDA Prime Meat Cuts on the grill, this chain is a no-brainer if you like high-quality meats and steaks.
Crete - the Island of Natural Beauty and Ancient History
Crete in Greece is the largest and most populous of the Greek islands. Here you will find beautiful beaches, a rich and ancient history, along with delicious cuisine. Take a history stroll on Knossos Palace, the most important Minoan palace and archeological site in the world that is supposed to have been the very core of the ancient Minoan civilization. And while walking, take on your best wander boots and head for the Samaria Gorge, a beautiful and popular hiking trail as well as the longest gorge in Europe which offers scenic views of the island's natural beauty. Swim at Elafonisi Beach, a pink-sand beach located in the southwest of Crete and known for its crystal clear waters, so be sure to bring your scuba mask. In Rethymnon Old Town you can wander through the charming Venetian-era old town with narrow streets, traditional houses, and a Venetian fortress. Continue walking in Chania Old Town with cobbled streets, Venetian and Ottoman architecture, and a charming harbor, and you will have wonderful moments and views on the way. And City Walking is perfect to build up an appetite, so where should you eat?
Cretan Cuisine and Traditional Tavernas
Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani This restaurant has traditional Cretan and local cuisine and offers a wide variety of local dishes and a cozy atmosphere to go with it.
To Stachi To Stachi is a traditional taverna with a menu focused on Cretan cuisine. A popular place to eat while viewing the seaside and ocean.
Avli Tou Thodori Another local Cretan Restaurant. When traveling for food you always should try out the local cuisine, and Crete is absolutely not an exception.
Almyriki Another seaside restaurant with tasty Cretan food on the menu.
Kritamon A traditional Taverna with a cozy, friendly atmosphere. And guess what? They also do dishes made with traditional, Cretan, and locally produced ingredients!
Marrakech - Moroccan Medinas and Ornate Palaces
Marrakech in Marocco offers a rich historical culture and vibrant markets, making it a very popular tourist destination to travel. You will end up at Jamaa el Fna sooner or later, the main square and market of Marrakech. This is truly the heart of the city. And a perfect location for a tasty street food market so your best appetite when visiting is recommended! Koutoubia Mosque is the largest mosque in Marrakech and probably the most well-known and iconic landmark of the city. It's a beautiful minaret with intricate tilework. If tilework is up your sleeve, be sure to also visit Bahia Palace built in the late 19th century with some amazing tilework, plasterwork, and woodcarvings. Relax in the Menara Gardens, a grandiose garden complex dating back to the 12th century that has beautiful views of the city and the Atlas Mountains. Another beautiful garden is Jardin Majorelle designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s and later owned by no one less than Yves Saint Laurent.
Moroccan Food Scene
Le Foundouk Located in a historical building that used to belong to a reputed dressmaking workshop in the depths of the Medina, this restaurant offers both Maroccan and International food and is a favorite among foodie tourists.
Nomad is a Modern Moroccan restaurant that has a strong focus on local, fresh seasonal ingredients. Also offers international dishes even if they come with a Moroccan Twist.
Le Jardin Mediterranean cuisine in the garden of a riad. Riads are the estates of some of the wealthiest citizens, merchants, and courtiers way back, now serving as settings for nice restaurants among many functions.
Dominican Republic - Caribbean Rainforests and Beaches
The Dominican Republic, the island of Hispaniola in the Caribbean is known for its great beaches, lush tropical landscapes and surroundings, and very vibrant culture. Punta Cana offers a tourist beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, and exciting nightlife. Santo Domingo is not only the oldest city in the Dominican Republic; it's also its Capitol where you can find colonial architecture and historical sites like the Alcazar de Colón. But to experience the Dominican Republic at its best as a destination, you need to visit some of the island's famous regions. In Jarabacoa´s mountainous region well-known for its eco-tourism, you can marvel over its natural beauty while you do outdoor activities such as hiking and rafting. In the La Romana province located in the southeast, you will find some of the island's most beautiful beaches, Casa de Campo, a luxury resort, and the Altos de Chavón, which is a "life-size" replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village. To experience even more of nature's beauty, head northeast to Samaná and the Los Haitises National Park for breathtaking and scenic views along with some whale-watching tours.
Dominican Local Eateries and Restaurants
La Yola La Yola is a seafood restaurant at Punta Cana Resort & Club serving fresh, local seafood, literally zero meters from the ocean. If you want more options there are seven more restaurants at the resort to choose from.
El Meson de la Cava Partly carved out in a rock, El Meson del la Cava is a popular restaurant among tourists serving traditional Dominican food influenced by Mediterranean cuisine.
La Parrilla At La Parrilla, they focus on high-quality meats served in a casual atmosphere.
La Piazzetta A restaurant taking Italian food really seriously with an ambiance so genuine that you forget that you are in the Dominican Republic and not Italy.
Istanbul - The Bridge between East and West Continents
Istanbul in Turkey literally is straddling Europe and Asia by the Bosphorus strait where boat tours are popular. Istanbul is known for its rich history, culture, and architecture, and without any doubt, Hagia Sophia a former Byzantine church and mosque is one of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul. Hagia Sophia is also on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. At Blue Mosque you will find another beautiful mosque known for its blue tilework and six minarets. If you're into history you can find out more about the opulent lifestyle of the Ottoman sultans at the former Ottoman palace turned into a museum; Topkapi Palace. For shopping, there's no other place to go than Grand Bazaar which is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world.
Ottoman and Turkish Cuisine - not only Kebab and Mezze
Mikla A very popular restaurant with both locals and tourists offering its own "New Anatolian Kitchen" where traditional food and ingredients blend with both old and new techniques. Add a fantastic view of Istanbul city and you have a winner.
Asitane For a more traditional take on Ottoman cuisine, the restaurant Asitane is located in Edirnekapi and specializes in comprehensive research of fine Ottoman Court food made from 200 to 500 years old recipes.
Tugra Tugra is located on the first floor of the historical Çırağan Palace run by the Kempinski Group, with a breathtaking view of the Bosphorus offering Turkish Fine Dining
Çiya Sofrası Despite the headline, if you're going for Kebab and Mezze; Çiya Sofrası is a casual yet tasty restaurant experience.
Zübeyir Ocakbaşı Another contender for the Kebab and Mezze price. A cozy and genuine restaurant serving traditional Turkish dishes.
That was the Top Ten Destinations to Travel to in 2023, according to the users of TripAdvisor. Was any of the destinations on your own Bucket List? Let us know in the comments!
If you're planning a trip to any of the destinations above, here's some helpful Travel Advice for you.
Advice for Planning Your Next Trip
This is a Food Travel Guide to the Top Ten Destinations to Travel to in 2023. To start planning your next travel, check out these helpful Travel Advice and Travel Resources:
Always start your Travel Planning by using a Trusted VPN Service like NordVPN to avoid Algorithms interfering with your multiple searches for the best price. It will save you a lot of money in your overall Travel Budget.
Check out Expedia for flights, stays, and car hire at your destination.
Find Hotels, Accommodations, and Rentals at Booking.
iVisa has the latest Travel recommendations and hassle-free online Visa applications.
Make sure you always Travel Safely and Awesome with Travel Insurance for Travelers from Safety Wing.
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