Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2023

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Michelin-starred restaurants, rustic farmers markets bursting with fresh goods, world-class wineries, tangy cider and classically brewed beer - Kent is literally overflowing with fine things to eat and drink. Fresh from vine and hop, sea and land, our food and drink produce rival the best in the world when it comes to freshness and flavour. Global travel authority Lonely Planet have placed Kent at number four on their highly anticipated and revered list of the world’s best regions to visit - ‘ Best in Travel 2022’. The list defines the top 10 hottest countries, cities, and regions to visit next year, for the ultimate in must-have travel experiences. Whether you prefer bus, train, bicycle and or your own legs, getting around Kent couldn’t be easier. A great network of sustainable trails, paths and train lines run from town to town, leaving you with more time to experience the sheer beauty of Kent’s countryside, and a clear conscious about your carbon footprint.

Local perspectives, itineraries and recommendations are at the heart of each destination to help you imagine and plan a memorable trip. Bev Craig, Leese’s successor, said: “When Lonely Planet says there is something for everyone here, it’s the result of long-term planning and partnership. We’re proud to be the only UK city on this list.” For those seeking a trekking experience away from snowy summits, the Anti Atlas Mountains in Morocco are perfect in March, when you can embrace tranquil hikes and the season of wildflowers and blooming trees. Don’t miss the annual almond blossom festival in Tafraoute, held in February or March to coincide with the vibrant flowering and harvest of almond trees. Uzbekistan With drier weather and more sunshine, August is a great time to explore Ecuador’s 10 national parks and eco-friendly cloud lodges – and Día de Independencia (August 8) and the procession of La Virgen del Cisne (August 15) are big events on the cultural calendar. If you’re not pushed for time, a brand new digital-nomad visa means tourists can enjoy extended stays in one of the world’s most biodiverse countries. Far North, Scotland There’s hardly a wrong time to visit the Caribbean – yet February sees a high influx of visitors hoping to escape cold-weather countries. St Lucia’s independence from British rule in 1979 is celebrated on February 22, and marked by parades and celebratory events island-wide. Come prepared to party. Hokkaido, JapanYes, December can be bitingly cold in Prague – but that doesn’t mean it’s not a magical time of year, and the perfect month to find a traditional cozy pub to warm up and sink a tall Czech beer. Hearty Czech cuisine warms you up, and the cobblestone streets are illuminated with twinkling lights. Don’t miss the Christmas markets: the biggest is in the Old Town Square and runs until the end of the month – with mulled wine, gingerbread biscuits, seasonal gifts and musical performers.

If visitors to France fancy something other than the Olympics, the region of Normandy is hosting the Normandy Impressionist Festival from March to September next year to celebrate 150 years of Impressionism. The event will bring visitors into the heart of a 19th-century movement that turned art on its head with its radical, soulful focus on outdoor scenes and the effects of light. The program includes open-air theater performances and dance cafes, art exhibitions and workshops, plus forest walks, stargazing, sound- and-light shows and romantic picnics straight out of a Renoir. SpainIstria realised many years ago what a goldmine it was sitting on, and developed an excellent infrastructure for active and gourmet holidays,” says travel writer Mary Novakovich. “You'll find routes throughout the peninsula for walking and cycling that take in the region's wineries, olive oil producers and some friendly farmstays — known as agroturizam.” The Kent art scene is absolutely thriving, making it a truly exciting time to visit the area. Browse around independent galleries, immerse yourself in creative culture, discover inspiring local talent, and let your imagination run wild…Kent is ready and waiting to spark your creativity…

Lonely Planet has revealed its annual list of Best in Travel with a roster of 30 top destinations recommended to visit in 2023 Another huge driver of the burst in Kent’s artistic culture is the Turner Contemporary in Margate, just along the coast – head to this internationally-renowned gallery for exhibitions and displays of contemporary and historical art in a striking, sea-front building. The Isle of Thanet is sprinkled with exciting galleries, quaint independent shops, cosy cafés and innovative artists with Broadstairs, Margate and Ramsgate proudly standing as some of the most exciting

Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort

In its 19 th year Lonely Planet's Best in Travel hotlist, voted for by their global community of staff, local writers, and publishing partners, provides expert insight into lesser-known destinations and new takes on popular places. New cycling trails, train and flight services making destinations more accessible, bids for UNESCO world heritage status raising the profile of un-sung locations, 'wow' factor and ongoing commitment to sustainability, community and diversity have all contributed towards this year's list. But as travel has rebounded, we noticed people are craving more meaningful experiences and are being much more intentional with how they select the places they want to visit. With that in mind, we’ve reimagined our list, with our top destinations sorted not by country, region or city, but by the best type of trip to be had in each place. Algeria, the USA's Midwest, Greek island of Ikaria and Normandyare just a few of those great value and often overlooked destinations, ideal for the cost-conscious traveller. Top cities include the sizzling, culturally cool Nairobi, Kenya, scenic Mostar, Bosniawith its infamous bridgeand the revitalized Izmir, Turkey. For those seeking to enjoy the great outdoors, the new Western Balkans' Trans Dinarica Cycle Routeis set to open in 2024 and Far North Scotland is bidding for UNESCO status for its unsung boggy interior and a coastline of heartbreaking beauty. Tastings at artisan producers are among the most authentic, local experiences a traveler can have here: a small number of family farms have built tasting rooms so visitors can try silky golden olive oils, pungent truffles or crisp award-winning wines.