Why Israel Should Be At The Top Of Your Travel List For 2023

As we look towards the future and the possibilities that 2023 holds, it's time to start planning your next adventure. What better place to visit than the vibrant, diverse, and endlessly fascinating country of Israel. From the bustling streets and nightlife of Tel Aviv to the ancient corridors of Jerusalem, Israel offers something for everyone. Whether you're a history buff, a beach lover, culture seeker or a foodie, you'll find it all here. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to discover why Israel should be at the top of your travel list for 2023.

1. The Ultimate Mediterranean Coastline - The Mediterranean coastline of Israel is a feast for the senses. Imagine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters and a vibrant atmosphere that never stops. Tel Aviv known as "the city that never sleeps", is the perfect place to start your journey, where one can enjoy the sun, sand, and surf of some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, like Gordon beach or Frishman beach. The culinary scene in Tel Aviv is nothing short of amazing, with a variety of delicious flavors and styles from all around the world. At night, the city comes alive with a pulsating nightlife that will keep you dancing until the early hours of the morning. But it's not just about the party scene - Tel Aviv https://visit.tel-aviv.gov.il/ is also a city rich in culture, with world-class museums, galleries, and performance spaces. Come and experience the Mediterranean coastline of Israel and discover why Tel Aviv is a place where culture, cuisine, and nightlife meet.

2. Adventurous Desert - Experience the rugged beauty and unspoiled wilderness of the Negev desert in Israel. This vast and ancient desert is a paradise for adventure seekers, offering thrills like sand boarding down towering dunes, hiking well marked trails or mountain biking along camel paths carved into the sand, or simply exploring ancient canyons. But it's not just about the adrenaline rush - the Negev is also home to a rich cultural heritage and a unique culinary scene. Immerse yourself in the hospitality of the Bedouin people and discover the delicious flavors of traditional desert cuisine. The Negev desert is an unforgettable destination that offers a perfect blend of raw nature, adventure, wildlife, diversity of culture, and culinary experiences. Pack your comfortable hiking shoes and sun hat and come explore this amazing desert land in Israel.

3. Unique Cultural Experiences – recently announced as one of UNWTO 'tourist villages' Kfar Kama holds an ideal place to enhance the visit to Israel. Kfar Kama encompasses historic narrative about the Circassian community living near the Kfar Tabor, which was founded over 150 years ago by Muslim Circassians, emigrating to Israel from the Caucasus region between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea. The village, which is one of two such Circassian villages in Israel, (the other is Rehaniya), allows the tourist to travel through a time tunnel. The village is full of restaurants, family riding attractions, a dairy offering workshops on cheese making processes and the Circassian Heritage Conservation Center, which offers tours of the old village alleyways, a sound and light show, and tastings from the Circassian cuisine.

4. History was Never so Innovative - a New Visitors Center Opens at Tel Megiddo National Park. A new, state-of-the-art Visitors Center was recently officially opened at the Tel Megiddo National Park, promising tourists an enhanced visiting experience. The Visitors Center, which employs the latest technology, emphasizes the connection between Tel Megiddo and the Bible, alongside displays of historical artifacts. Tel Megiddo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the most excavated archaeological site in Israel over the years, overlooking about thirty different cities from various time periods in the history of the Land of Israel. Megiddo was one of the strongest and most important cities of Canaan. The remains of the palaces, temples, gates, and the city's sophisticated water system are evidence of its great power.

5. Jerusalem – A city of magic and radiance – Jerusalem is the capital of Israel and by far one of the most famous and fascinating cities in the world, where thousands of years of history resides seamlessly intertwined with modern day life. As a UNESCO recognized heritage site, discover the overwhelming power of this 3,000-year-old city, it's innumerable historic sites of great archaeological and those of faiths' significances. It's magical walkways and panoramic vistas that leave lasting impressions. It is said that one doesn't have to be religious to visit Jerusalem. A tour of the Old City of Jerusalem is an opportunity to answer the "curiosities" that most visitors have but is not all about history or faith. The modern side of Jerusalem is composed of a multitude of museums, an outdoor market that convert into a nightly youthful playground, modern architecture, cultural events, and of course the great shopping, cuisine, and vibrant nightlife, all mixed together into a fine cocktail of experiences that are uniquely Israeli.

To make your plans, please visit: https://israel.travel/

Mexican State Of Aguascalientes Is Named ‘Cultural Capital Of The Americas 2023’

The Mexican state of Aguascalientes has been named “Cultural Capital of the Americas 2023.” The announcement – made by the President of the International Bureau of Cultural Capitals, Xavier Tudela – marks the beginning of an intense project with a diverse cultural agenda for 2023 that will highlight the historical and cultural heritage of the state.

This is the first time that the IBCC has selected an entire state as the Cultural Capital of the Americas. In its announcement, the association notes that "Aguascalientes has been chosen Cultural Capital of The Americas for three different and complementary reasons: for the quality of the candidacy project, the institutional and citizen consensus and for the will to use the designation of Cultural Capital as an instrument to add, unite and step up for social inclusion; as well as an element of economic development.”

Aguascalientes, widely regarded as the geographic center of Mexico, is also a cultural, natural and tourism nexus. It has a wide variety of attractions, from adventure in its mountains, religious and cultural happenings, so-called Magical Towns and even a wine route, to two of the most important events in the country: Cultural Festival of Calaveras in November and the National Fair of San Marcos in April, this latter being the largest in Mexico with more than 8 million annual visitors.

Rich in historical and cultural assets, the State of Aguascalientes is the birthplace of engraver José Guadalupe Posada and composer Jesús F. Contreras. It is also home to world-class museums and three of Mexico’s renowned “Pueblos Magicos,” or Magical Towns. All these, along with its privileged climate and weather, are among the many attributes that make this a state rich in travel experiences.

Its extensive highway network and more than 300 domestic and international flights to hubs like Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Los Angeles and Chicago — in addition to its geographical location, convention centers of highest standards, modern infrastructure and a large hotel capacity with 5,500 rooms – consolidate Aguascalientes as the ideal option for leisure and business trips in central Mexico.

“We have a great state: dynamic, innovative, competitive, with investment, employment, and an extraordinary quality of life,” said Governor María Teresa Jiménez Esquivel. “This year, we are the American Capital of Culture; we are going to spread our great cultural wealth, talent and our people and traditions.

“We will give a renewed boost to tourism to diversify our economy and show Mexico and the world how much our state has to offer to those who visit us,” Jiménez Esquivel continued. “We are committed to becoming the best cultural tourist destination in Mexico with our museums, architecture [and] Magical Towns, and we will be the great destination for congresses and visitors.”

Aguascalientes was officially named Cultural Capital of the Americas 2023 at an event this past Sunday, Jan. 22, 2023 in the Plaza de la Patria in the state’s capital, also named Aguascalientes, where renowned native composer José María Napoleon performed with the Aguascalientes Symphony Orchestra, along with more than 100 local performing artists who presented traditional dances and music of the state.

The following are seven reasons to visit Aguascalientes. Although the state is heralded for its multiple cultural gems, seven specific so-called treasures were chosen to highlight its rich cultural heritage:

JOSÉ GUADALUPE POSADA’S FAMOUS CATRINA: “La Catrina” is the icon that has become the representative image of the Day of the Dead celebration in Aguascalientes. The female figure with a skull for a face was created by José Guadalupe Posada, an illustrator, engraver and cartoonist born in the state. La Catrina was, in fact, a caricature intended to criticize women who achieved a high social status and hid their indigenous roots to follow European fashions and customs. Today, she is now the star figure year after year at the Calaveras Cultural Festival held each November.

‘OJO CALIENTE’ THERMAL BATHS: The spa facilities, a neoclassical building with French influence, were built in 1831 so wealthy residents of Aguascalientes and surrounding areas had a place to take their baths. Although they have undergone modifications, the hydraulic installations are preserved as they were at the end of the 19th century.

‘TRES CENTURIAS’ COMPLEX: History lovers will appreciate this former locomotive workshop. If the romance of decades past is your vibe, this place is for you. Imagine celebrating an engagement, wedding or simple reunion in front of the train station where many people waited for the love of their lives to arrive. This is the perfect spot to host a wedding with great style and in a setting reminiscent of a movie set.

HISTORIC BUILDINGS: Capital city Aguascalientes boasts an architectural and historical heritage embodied in certain representative buildings, among which the Government Palace stands out. This structure is characterized by hosting five of the most splendid murals in the state. Another historical building is the San Antonio Temple, a monument with outstanding quarry work extracted from the same region in green, yellow and pink tones. Another important and not-to-be-missed building is Teatro Morelos, a theater was declared, a Historical Monument of the Nation by presidential decree.

SAN MARCOS NATIONAL FAIR: With more than 190 years of history and tradition, the “Mexico Fair,” as it is also known, is a display of the best of art and popular culture offering fun activities for the whole family.

AGUASCALIENTES HISTORIC DOWNTOWN — SAN MARCOS GARDEN: The construction of the San Marcos Garden balustrade began in 1842 and was promoted by the then Governor of Aguascalientes, Nicolás Condell. This wonderful work was finished in 1847 and houses to this day a garden that’s home to both history and tradition, where family events take place and which plays a fundamental part in the San Marcos National Fair. Visitors should also avail themselves of a guided tram ride through the traditional neighborhoods of Aguascalientes, taking in the murals of the Government Palace.

THE TREASURE OF THE STATE’S MAGICAL TOWNS: Calvillo, San José de Gracia and Asientos are the three Magical Towns that showcase the unique identity of Aguascalientes in each of its tourist attractions, offering up an endemic magic that emanates from each of the state’s corners

Dominica Named 'Best Destination To Unwind' In Lonely Planet's Best In Travel 2023

Global travel authority Lonely Planet has announced its 'Best in Travel' list for 2023 with Dominica (pronounced Dom-in-EEK-a) ranking as one of the top destinations to unwind. This is the first time Dominica has been honored as a top travel destination in Lonely Planet's Best in Travel collection. This year marks the 18th annual collection of the world's hottest destinations, and the must-have travel experiences for the year ahead. Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2023 recommends 30 must-visit locations around food, journeying, connection, learning and unwinding.

Botanical gardens in Dominica. Photo by Allen Barkus.

"We are incredibly honored to be considered as one of the top destinations to unwind by Lonely Planet's Best in Travel," said Colin Piper, Discover Dominica Authority's CEO/Director of Tourism. "This recognition is a true testament to our beautiful island and the growth in tourism we've experienced in recent years. To be recognized by such a prestigious publication as one of the top destinations to unwind solidifies our stance in maintaining the island's natural environment while still creating authentic experiences for travelers, whether seeking adventure or relaxation."

Each year, Lonely Planet's Best in Travel lists start with nominations from Lonely Planet's vast community of staff, writers, bloggers, publishing partners and more. The nominations are then whittled down by their panel of travel experts to just 30 destinations. Each is chosen for its topicality, unique experiences, 'wow' factor and its ongoing commitment to sustainability, community and diversity.

"Celebrated and recognized for its natural attractions, Dominica is often confused with the Dominican Republic, but we don't expect that to happen for much longer," said Tom Hall, Vice President of Lonely Planet. "2023 is shaping up to be an exciting year to get out and explore. With much of the world firmly on the road to recovery, travelers are looking for different locations and experiences, and we know Dominica will not disappoint."

Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2023 offers a comprehensive set of itineraries aimed at helping travelers to explore the world – while following along with some seriously knowledgeable locally-based experts along the way. To learn more about this year's list, visit www.lonelyplanet.com/best-in-travel.

For more information on Dominica, visit Dominica's official website at www.discoverdominica.com.

Merida, Capital Of Mexico’s Yucatan State, Among 5 ‘Best Large Cities’ At Condé Nast 2022 Readers Choice Awards

The only Mexican city on this year’s list, Yucatecan colonial gem makes top 10 for second year running

Readers of Condé Nast Traveler have selected the Mexican city of Merida as one of this year’s “Best Large Cities” in the world, thanks to its attractions, culture and extensive promotion of the state of Yucatán as a destination. Announced the morning of Oct. 4, 2022, Mérida’s ranking came in among the first four places in the 2022 Readers Choice Awards.

The Condé Nast Traveler Readers Choice Awards, launched more than three decades ago, are the longest-running and most prestigious recognition of excellence in the travel industry.

In 2021, the Yucatecan capital became part of the “Large Cities” category in the prestigious awards, ranking at No. 6. This year’s edition sees Merida move up two spots to No. 4. The only Mexican city in the top 5 of the list, the charming yet cosmopolitan Yucatecan capital joins Singapore; Bangkok, Thailand; Tokyo, Japan; and Quebec City in Canada in the top-ranked urban quintet.

In 2019, Merida ranked No. 1 at the Condé Nast Traveler Readers Choice Awards in the category of "Small Cities," garnering more than 600,000 votes; it maintained its position on the list in 2020.

In 2022, attributes that earned Merida reader recognition and admiration are not only its storied urban streets, full of colorful, Spanish colonial-era facades but also the Maya history and heritage that imbues each of its corners, as well as nearby Yucatecan attractions such as the UNESCO Heritage sites of Uxmal and Chichen Itza. Also not to be missed are the Gulf Coast beaches at Progreso, as well as the state’s art and gastronomy, which undoubtedly captivate visitors who set foot in the intriguing Yucatecan capital.

The administration of Yucatan Gov. Mauricio Vila Dosal has promoted the transformation of the state’s tourism sector, ensuring its benefits reach the entire territory through the diversification of products, mainly within Yucatan, in order to reactivate local economies and create jobs for Yucatecan families.

As part of the promotion of Yucatan as an ideal place to visit, the state has participated in international travel industry events and fairs — taking along a little taste of what it has to offer — and campaigns such as “365 Days in Yucatan” and “365 Flavors of Yucatan” have been launched, seeking to promote the great variety of activities and gastronomy available statewide.

For more information, please visit: https://yucatan.travel/