World's Best Places to Visit for 2023 (Pt. 3)

11. Phuket

Located in southern Thailand, the island of Phuket offers something for everyone, especially budget-minded travelers. Activities like spa treatments and boat tours come with low price tags, as do accommodations, making this a cheap tropical vacation option. For stunning scenery, check out the limestone cliffs of Phang Nga Bay and lounge on Phuket's gorgeous white sand beaches (Freedom Beach and Bang Tao Beach are two popular destinations). Other top attractions include Wat Chalong Temple and the Big Buddha. Once the sun sets, hitch a ride on a tuk-tuk and take part in the island's lively nightlife scene.

12. Costa Rica

From volcanic mountains and verdant rainforests to tumbling waterfalls and miles of stunning shoreline, Costa Rica is a Central American gem. Explore the beaches along the Nicoya Peninsula, hike along Arenal Volcano and spot exotic wildlife (think: river turtles, otters and howler monkeys) in remote Tortuguero National Park. If you're looking for an adrenaline rush, go swimming next to some of the country's waterfalls or zip lining through its rainforests. Then, head back to an eco-luxury all-inclusive resort to unwind. Just make sure you plan a visit during Costa Rica's dry season, which falls between mid-December and April.

13. South Island, New Zealand

New Zealand's South Island brims with majestic landscapes at every turn, from dramatic mountains to spectacular fjords. Here, you can admire the mountains of Fiordland National Park from hiking trails or a boat on Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. At night, journey to the University of Canterbury's Mount John Observatory to gaze at the starry skies. You can also indulge your inner daredevil in Queenstown (a favorite destination among bungee jumpers), sample delicious sauvignon blanc wine in the Marlborough region or explore New Zealand's most accessible glaciers – Franz Josef and Fox Glacier – on the island's west coast.

14. Tahiti

Travel to this island – the largest in French Polynesia – if you've been dreaming of a vacation spent lazing in a lavish overwater bungalow combined with experiencing an ancient culture. Beyond the posh resorts, Tahiti boasts black sand and golden beaches, a bustling capital (Papeete) and prime snorkeling and surfing conditions. If you're looking for more cultural activities, check out some of the island's temples, shop for Tahitian pearls at its traditional indoor markets or enjoy local performance art. To save money, opt to stay in a vacation rental – the island is home to plenty of cute bungalows and chic condos.

15. Banff

An Alberta town full of acclaimed restaurants, breweries, boutiques and art galleries, Banff makes for an exciting vacation in every season. Vacationers can spend their days hiking, relaxing in hot springs and boating on scenic lakes. Banff's location within the Canadian Rockies also makes it easy for visitors to access Banff National Park, which boasts some of the world's most beautiful vistas. Inside the park, travelers can admire sweeping views of the Bow Valley from the Banff Gondola or while schussing the slopes at the park's three ski resorts.