Where do savvy travelers go to escape the crowds and experience true local culture? We asked our A-list travel advisors to reveal their favorite hidden gem destinations for 2023 — place that are off the beaten path and brimming with charm.

Sardinia, Italy

“Sardinia stands out as a pearl of the Mediterranean. Because of its strategic location, Sardinia has been conquered by many civilizations over the centuries, leaving behind traces of art and culture that still enrich the area in its archaeological sites, historic landmarks, and vibrant traditions. Sardinia captivates visitors with its exceptional cuisine, high-quality wines, and genuine traditions.” — Matteo Della Grazia & Daniela Mencarelli, Fuoritinerario — Discover Your Italy

Hong Kong

“People need to talk about Hong Kong (again). It’s been below the radar for a number of years, but the city continues to impress with new important museums and exceptional hotels that are a reasonable value compared to most in Europe.” — Rob Clabbers, Q Cruise + Travel

Poland

“Travel to Poland tanked after the invasion in Ukraine, but it’s back with a vengeance. There’s so much history to uncover. The charm here comes from the local people who are warm and welcoming, allowing for a number of personal experiences we can create … like meeting local artists or a home-based cooking experience. It’s also not on the euro, so still a fabulous value.” — Gwen Kozlowski, Exeter International

The Peloponnese, Greece

“This peninsula in the southwestern region of mainland Greece  is often overlooked by travelers looking for the ideal Greece holiday. However, the Peloponnese offers the largest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Greece, the ultimate farm-to-table experiences, and top-notch properties. Luxury hotels include a Mandarin Oriental, Amanzoe, W, and Romanos.  A Banyan Tree is opening in 2025. The Peloponnese also boasts some of the best beaches in Greece.” — Mina Agnos, Travelive

Madagascar

“Madagascar remains a bit of a mystery to most people. When I first set foot in Madagascar nearly 15 years ago, I could not wait to search for lemurs, snorkel off the smaller islands of Nosy Be, and spot whales from Ile Sainte Marie. I also hugged many towering, ancient baobab trees; they have a special place in the island’s culture. Today, general improvements in accommodation standards add a degree of comfort to any off-the-beaten-track adventure, while those in search of world-class desert island luxury will not be disappointed.” — Samantha Gordon, Red Savannah

Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe

“Lake Kariba in northern Zimbabwe offers a wide variety of water activities, including fishing and game viewing. It’s also near Matusadona National Park, where you can experience exhilarating bush walks and game drives. On my last visit, we walked near a large herd of buffalo and ran into three elephants. Bumi Hills, part of African Bush Camps, recently launched a sleepout on Lake Kariba if you stay a minimum of three nights.” — Candice Heckel, Africa Endeavours

Losinj, Croatia

“Losinj, which is tucked up in the northern Adriatic, is called ‘Vitality Island’ for a reason. It’s protected by Italy on one side, and the Croatian coast on the other. Merchants would stop here for a safe haven to rest, trade, and restock. And with its ideal climate, more than 1,000 plants and an array of medicinal herbs can grow here. It’s representative of how wellness can span an entire island.” — Kristin Chambers, D.A. Luxury Travel & TravelLustre

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda

“In the southwest of Uganda, the tiny Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to a single mountain gorilla group: the Nyakagezi family. A visit to Mgahinga, on the Ugandan side of the Virunga volcanoes, will give you a unique insight into the world of the endangered mountain gorillas, their habitats, and the communities that live nearby. You can also hike a volcano, see the rare golden monkey, and share in the ancient culture of the Batwa, one of the oldest inhabitants of the central African rain forest, at the Gahinga Batwa Village.” — Praveen Moman, Volcanoes Safaris

Khajuraho, India

“Khajuraho, a small town in the middle of India, is well-known around the world for its exquisitely carved temples, recognized by UNESCO among its list of World Heritage Sites. It’s also near the Panna National Park, where you can go on a tiger safari.” — Marion Miller, Micato Safaris

Ennedi Plateau, Chad

“The Ennedi Plateau, spanning Chad’s Sahelian and Saharan areas, offers travelers a remote journey into a desert landscape of ancient rock art dating back over 8,000 years, sandstone pinnacles, rock labyrinths, and hidden valleys where the desert nomads of the Tubu, Zaghawa, and Bedeyat peoples have brought their camels to water for centuries. In Chad, it’s a  privilege to see a bewitching and beautiful desert, and on such a scale.” — Will Jones, Journeys by Design

Puglia, Italy

“Located in the heel of Italy, Puglia is surrounded by gorgeous beaches, sea arches, cliffs, and caves — yet it’s still under most tourists’ radar. So many Instagram-worthy images of Italy have been taken here. There are must-see UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the trulli of Alberobello and the cave dwellings in Matera, some of which now house hotels. My favorite towns include Lecce and Monopoli.” — Julie Jones, TopFlight Travels

Bahrain

“Bahrain is an island country that has a great deal to offer any visitor. Though not as popular as its neighbors, it has a great food scene, and English is widely spoken. Bahrain also has world-class hotels and beautiful beaches, and is safe and easy to navigate.” — Mo Noubani, The Travel Box International

Southwest Wilderness, Tasmania

“Tasmania’s southwest wilderness is a pristine, UNESCO World Heritage-listed region that was only recently made accessible to visitors. In 2023, the introduction of Odalisque III, a luxurious, expedition-style cruising experience, began providing visitors [with] a privileged opportunity to explore breathtaking scenery and dramatic landscapes shared by 12 guests on board. Travelers can also enjoy personalized tours — including some amazing hikes and wildlife spotting — comfortable accommodations, and fabulous Tasmanian food and wines.” — Stuart Rigg, Southern Crossings