Top Trips To Take in 2023

Anguilla, Caribbean islands
Image Credit: Auberge Resorts

Anguilla is a beautiful island paradise in the Caribbean Sea. At a mere 35 square miles, this British West Indian island is well-known for its quaint atmosphere with such a wide variety of restaurants. Anguilla has become one of our top-booked destinations for 2022 ever since Sydney told everyone about her babymoon experience here. It provided the perfect backdrop to the amazing memories Sydney and her husband made while relaxing and awaiting their first baby. Cap Juluca, a Belmond property, was an excellent selection and we’ve been recommending it to our clients — all of whom come back in love with the property. Sydney stayed in the Beachfront Junior suite; suffice it to say there was nothing “Junior” about it. If relaxation and good food is your goal, Anguilla will do the trick! There was hardly anyone at the beach, and waitstaff heard a resounding “yes” every time when offering the Anguillan crayfish entree.

Hotels: Four Seasons Resorts Anguilla + Malliouhana, Auberge Resorts

Banff, Canada
Image Credit: The Fairmont, Banff Springs

This whimsical town located inside of Banff National Park, the world’s third-largest national park, is the highest town in Canada. You know what that means! You’d better grab your best ski suit as the powder up there is unreal; they have some excellent ski spots. Since it's so high, you probably can catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights here during the winter. We would be remiss to not tell you about the Upper Hot Springs. Even the summers are great in Banff; you can hike to Lake Peyto or head to Lake Moraine for the best sunsets or sunrises. Best of all, the Canmore rope swing is the optimum spot for the perfect selfie.

Sydney Patterson Travel’s favorite hotel in Banff is The Fairmont, Banff Springs

Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Image Credit: Le Taha’a

We sent a few of our lovely clients to this gorgeous, barely touched area of the world. A small South Pacific island northwest of Tahiti in French Polynesia, Bora Bora speaks well enough for itself. But we’ll tell you how magical it is, anyway. This island, surrounded by iridescent blue waters, is nicknamed the “Pearl of the Pacific” for good reason. It is an excellent location for discovering all sorts of ocean wildlife and you can even go pearl diving. Bora Bora’s white sand beaches and perfect sunset and sunrise views are well worth the long flight to get there. St. Regis Bora Bora is one of our favorite hotels. They offer the perfect luxury Polynesian vibe, and you will be spoiled as soon as you set foot on the property. The gastronomic experience is divine, with guaranteed good food at each restaurant.

Other hotels we love: Le Taha’a + Conrad Bora Bora Nui

Croatia
Image Credit: Lešić Dimitri Palace

We are so ready to send Sydney Patterson Travel clients to Croatia in 2023! Officially known as the Republic of Croatia, this destination is a must-see for the new year. We especially love Dubrovnik, but there are many other great places to see, like Montenegro and Istria, plus so many things to do. As the filming of “Game of Thrones” took place there, you probably already know it’s stunningly beautiful. But, if you’re not familiar, we must tell you about this Pearl of the Adriatic! You can walk down to the pebbly beaches, go sea-kayaking, cycling, cliff-jumping, horseback riding, and engage in various water sports like diving, fishing, and jet-skiing. Walk about the medieval Dubrovnik Old Town, climb the walls, explore the town’s streets and alleyways, visit museums, churches and monasteries. A boat ride to Lokrum Island, or a cable car up to Mount Srd sounds great, too. We love Villa Dubrovnik here at SPT. It is a stylish retreat set into the rocky cliffs on the most magical stretch of the Dalmatian Coast — only a 15-minute walk from Old Town Dubrovnik.

Another fave is Lešić Dimitri Palace

Japan
Image Credit: Aman Kyoto

Kyoto, Tokyo, Osaka or Hiroshima, what destination would you pick? Good thing you do not have to choose just one! You can city-hop with Sydney Patterson Travel. It's the best time to plan for creating new memories in Japan. Get the best street food in the ramen shops of Shibuya, get immersed in Japanese culture by learning how to be a geisha in Tokyo (from an actual geisha), or head to the snow monkey park in Jigokudani to see some cute little fellows. For a zen vibe, we recommend the temples and shrines in Kyoto, the heart of traditional Japanese culture. There are 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines, quite a lot to keep you relaxed for months. Aman Kyoto is just a little walk from Kyoto's golden Kinkaku-ji Temple and 16 other Unesco World Heritage sites, which we love. This secluded hotel is the quintessential relaxation space for recuperation and healing this new year.

Other noteworthy SPT stays are Aman Kyoto, Park Hyatt Tokyo and The Tokyo Edition

London & Cotswolds, England
Image Credit: The Dorchester

This one, we're sure, needs no introduction; this is city life at its best. From the historical architecture to the very tiny chance you may see a member of the Royal Family, from the art and fashion to the museums and libraries filled with tangible pieces of rich history, London is one city that you should visit at least once in your lifetime. Cotswolds, on the other hand — though also well-known — is the complete opposite of London. This town is an area that makes no mistake in showing her true beauty even on the gloomiest winter day. The English countryside is phenomenally breathtaking. You just have to see it! In London, we love sending our clients to the Beaverbrook properties, both exclusive 5-star hotels steeped in English history.

Other hotels we love in London and Cotswolds: Claridges, and The Dorchester

New Zealand
Image Credit: Matakauri Lodge

Yes, the English countryside is quite beautiful, but we also need to rave about the New Zealand scenic areas. NZ certainly is a stunner in our books! You have got to see the mountain ranges, glaciers, breathtaking coastlines and lush forestry in 2023. The food is also delectable, and the world-famous white wines are even better than we can describe. We think you’ll love our favorite hotel, the Delamore Lodge, a boutique luxury hotel and spa on Waiheke Island, NZ. It is literally only 35 minutes by ferry, or you can fancy it up a bit more with a five-minute helicopter ride to this superior first-class cliffside stay. One word sums it all up: STUNNING! There are four guest suites and two apartments, so seclusion and intimacy are guaranteed along with breathtaking views. Secure your room by filling out our inquiry form.

Other Sydney Patterson Travel favorites include: Matakauri Lodge

Portugal
Image Credit: Bela Vista Hotel & Spa

Picture-perfect coastlines that beg you to take a dip are just about as enticing as the charming architecture and streets of Portugal. This special destination is best enjoyed after March but before October, so we have just enough time to persuade you about this darling country. Portugal is not short on intriguing must-sees and -dos: from beautiful castles in Sintra to unusual stone villages nestled by huge boulders in Monsanto, and medieval cathedrals in Evora, Portugal’s got it all. We love Olissippo Lapa Palace, a beautiful 19th-century Lisbon palace overlooking the Tagus River. We have to admit, it's not very accessible on your own, so Sydney Patterson Travel will ensure that private transportation is secured for your visit. This also means that the peace and quiet is almost as exquisite as the service and amenities.

Hotels we also love include: Bela Vista Hotel & Spa

San Miguel de Allende, México
Image Credit: Rosewood San Miguel de Allende

Magnifico Me-hi-ico!! One of Sydney Patterson Travel’s top destinations since our inception, Mexico has a special place in our hearts. Our clients love Cancun, Puerto Vallarta and Tulum, but San Miguel is the perfect dream vacation. First thing, it is one of the safest, and cutest, places in Mexico. They have the cobblestone streets we all love (except when we’re wearing high heels), and the colonial architecture is impressive. You’ll enjoy this town’s hot springs at La Gruta, the delicious local cuisine and, of course, the year-round great weather. Our top recommended hotel, Rosewood San Miguel de Allende, is the perfect place to stay. You will love the rich heritage and authentic Mexican feel of the place, the elevated accommodations, the real Mexican gastronomy as well as the endless tequila, mezcal and other heritage spirits at the hotel bars. Pro tip: the spa does not disappoint! Get some R&R at Sense, a Rosewood Spa.

We also love Casa de Sierra Nevada, A Belmond Hotel and Live Aqua Urban Resort

South Africa
Image Credit: Lion Sands Private Game Reserve

Just speaking about South Africa isn’t good enough; you have to visit! Our Sydney Patterson Travel trip to SA was one for the books. Read about it here! This is one of the most unforgettable trips in the world. There’s literally so much to do and see. Get up close to lions and leopards in the bush, go whale-watching and beach-combing, enjoy great food and wine and then enjoy the relaxed city nightlife in Cape Town. We know the best luxury accommodations in South Africa. Contact us for a custom-curated safari proposal.

Hotels: One & Only, Cape Town + Lion Sands Private Game Reserve

Maine
Image Credit: Auberge Resorts Collection

Let Sydney Patterson Travel help you to create some memorable moments in Maine. Tumbledown Mountain offers great hiking trails that lead you to a nice cool-off spot in Alpine swimming ponds in the summer. You can explore the ice caves at any time of year, because these caves stay icy all year long. Whatever you seek to scratch that adventure itch, Maine has it. From sightseeing, boating, golfing, biking and skiing to just visiting lighthouses, playhouses, museums, antique shops and galleries, there’s something for everyone in Maine. We have sent a few of our SPT family to White Barn Inn and the reviews are always great about this lovely New England hotel. The hospitality and rustic charm gets us every time.

Hotels: White Barn Inn, Auberge Resorts Collection + Inn by the Sea

Nashville, TN
Image Credit: Four Seasons

There’s no mistaking the sweet sounds of country music that will instantly play in your head as soon as Nashville comes up in conversation. Nashville has all the makings of a fantastic vacation — from concerts and sunset flights in the Nashville Hot Air Balloon, to historic sites and the Country Music Hall of Fame. Girls’ trip, anyone? Get dressed up and have a girls’ dinner on the General Jackson Showboat, or take a little stroll in the botanical gardens at Cheekwood Estates. SO cute!

For hotels, we love: The brand new Four Seasons Nashville and The Hermitage Hotel

Palm Beach, FL
Image Credit: White Elephant Hotel

Lined with stately palm trees, Palm Beach will have you asking, “ California who?” The beautiful weather, legendary resorts, expansive (and expensive) homes and the historical landmarks are really something to write home about. Fancy some high-fashion shopping? Worth Avenue awaits! The ritzy hotels like The Breakers offer alluring amenities to go with the beauty and bounty of this destination. This iconic hotel offers exclusivity and opulence to serve you with unapologetic luxury, seaside glamor and world-class service.

Hotels: The Breakers and White Elephant Palm Beach

Telluride, Co
Image Credit: Auberge Resorts Collection

Last but certainly not least, is Telluride; there’s really no place quite like it. This small town is charming, spreading out about only eight blocks wide and 12 blocks long. Though small, the terrain surrounding it is quite vast, so there are a lot of outdoor activities to experience there. This is the thrill-seeking adventurer’s retreat! Take your chances on the mountain with gondolas, quads, surface lifts, magic carpets and more for days. There are shows, concerts and festivals quite regularly; you’re bound to catch some sort of event while in Telluride. Stay at Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection; we love this alpine stay framed by Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. Cozy, modern sophistication with world-class amenities awaits!


Now that we have gone over just a handful of the amazing destinations for 2023, which ones do you think you’ll explore? We’d love to help you get there. We do that planning stuff the best! No need to worry about the fine details; we will handle it all. Just pack your bags and we’ll do the rest! Send us a quick note here to begin!