It’s been a turbulent couple of years for travelers. So, once again, nothing makes us happier than having our next trip to look forward to. Whether you’re traveling to learn something new, giving back in a meaningful way or simply immersing yourself in the beauty of the world, here are 10 travel ideas we’re excited about for 2023.

1. Stays in low impact huts surrounded by nature

Thanks to improved solar technology, modern waterless toilets and small-but-luxurious, easy-to-assemble kit houses, off-grid living has gotten a whole lot better in recent years. The upshot? You can now book accommodation in the middle of a forest or field, bringing you even closer to incredible natural landscapes – and wildlife. Many of these remote huts, cabins and pods are both rustic and aesthetic. From bubble domes in Ireland to glass pods in New Zealand and tree houses in Norway, book an escape in 2023 that will allow you to really disconnect from the world – and everyone else.

2. Learning more on an Indigenous-led tour

A new year brings a new opportunity for a truly transformative travel experience: learning firsthand from Indigenous peoples. Not only will you enrich your understanding of places you visit, a First Nations guide can enlarge your worldview and help you see the land, the sky and human history from a new perspective From the northern reaches of Canada to the outback of Australia, the variety of tours catering to travelers hungry for deeper knowledge and connection continues to grow. In 2023, you can learn from centuries-old wisdom passed through the generations by story and song while traveling by river canoe in Canada, or go “Camping with Custodians” in Western Australia at an Aboriginal community campground featuring tours from the keepers of the world’s oldest continuous culture.

3. Traveling Europe by train

Not since Richard Linklater’s Before Sunset hit cinemas in 2004 has European train travel been so romantic. The benefits of getting around by train are well documented – you land in the middle of a city, there are no baggage delays and (of course) train travel has a lower environmental impact than air travel. (In fact, France recently banned flights between cities connected by train in 2.5 hours or less.) The best reason to plan a train adventure in Europe? It’s a toss-up between the rolling views by day or the romance of a sleeper carriage by night. The new GoldenPass Express through Switzerland has just added carriages with large two-part windows in all three classes for dramatic mountain, forest and river vistas. Sleeper trains, meanwhile, are having a revival, with new overnight routes just added and more on the way.

4. Setting sail with wind power

Another “no-fly” development that makes us happy to travel: getting there by sailboat. The innovative, environmentally conscious transport group SailLink has been testing a transport route between Europe and England that relies on the power of the wind and makes sailing accessible to the general public. After a successful trial in 2022 that proved there is indeed a market for low-impact travel alternatives, plans are afoot to launch a daily service between the British mainland and the north coast of France in spring 2023. Passengers can also bring their own bikes on these Channel crossings to continue their sustainable journey after disembarking. Which turns a zero-emissions trip into a real possibility.

5. Seeing near-extinct animals making a comeback

Thanks to impressive action by local communities, vulnerable animal species are making a comeback in various pockets of the world. In the Caribbean, the tiny Union Island gecko (each about the size of a paper clip) has almost doubled its population in four years, from 10,000 to 18,000. That’s thanks to the hard work of St Vincent and the Grenadines’ residents, government and local conservation groups such as Flora & Fauna International and Re:wild, who joined forces to put a stop to the poaching of this rare gem–like lizard. At the other end of the size spectrum, European bison are roaming free in Romania’s southern Carpathian Mountains again as part of a partnership between WWF Romania and Rewilding Europe. African cheetahs have been brought to India after the local Asiatic population was declared extinct in 1952. And in the USA, plans to reintroduce grizzly bears to North Cascades National Park are back on the agenda.

6. Making regenerative travel your goal

Could your next trip also have a positive long-lasting impact on the globe? Beyond the mission to “do no harm,” travelers are seeking opportunities to make things better. On a trip with Global Himalayan Expedition (GHE), trekkers in India and Nepal install solar technology in remote villages, bringing clean energy for lights and hot water. A portion of expedition fees pays for capital costs such as hardware and transportation, and these solar micro-grids are then owned and run by the community. In Madagascar, you can volunteer time planting trees with Planeterra’s Soa Zara on its “energy tree” project. Helping locals plant trees for firewood thus protecting pre-existing forests, which are also the habitat for endangered lemurs: could a 2023 trip deliver more than just wonderful memories?

7. Going on solar-powered safaris

Chobe Game Lodge launched the first “e-safaris” – with solar-powered boats and electric vehicles – in Botswana a decade ago. Now, electric-powered safaris are coming to other Southern African countries. In Sabi Sands Game Reserve, bordering Kruger National Park, the exclusive Cheetah Plains lodge has converted its vehicle fleet to electric, charged via solar panels. In Kenya, Lewa Wildlife camp and Emboo River Camp run solar-powered safaris with vehicles retrofitted by Kenya-based Swedish start-up Roam. The switch to electric is not just good for the environment. It has changed the experience of wildlife viewing by cutting out noise and pollution, allowing visitors to quietly creep up on wildlife and enjoy proper conversations while traveling together.

8. Discovering how to live more sustainably

Another travel experience that makes us happy is learning how to live sustainably from those who have done it – and applying that knowledge back home. Take Soil and Sea, a permaculture farm in Portugal’s incredible Azores archipelago that runs one- or two-week retreats with courses covering everything from getting into solar power and food waste reduction to composting and regenerative farming. Combine this with surfing and socializing, and you’ve got a holiday that will nourish the mind, body and soul. In Australia, the farm-based cooking school One Table Farm also hosts sustainability-based farm tours with tips on keeping chickens, making kefir (a fermented milk drink) and sourcing higher-welfare food from supermarkets. And in Wales, the Centre for Alternative Technology offers short residential courses on organic gardening, bee keeping and building a tiny house, with accommodation nearby.

9. Taking a swimming adventure holiday

Why not take your love affair with wild swimming to the next level in 2023 with a swimming holiday? Get booking in January if you want to swim between Sweden and Finland at the Swimac (Swim the Arctic Circle) race in July. On this 3000m (9840ft) swim, you’ll be crossing the Arctic Circle and swimming between time zones. Registrations also open in January for the 35th Bosphorus Cross-Continental Swimming Race in Turkey. Held in August, entrants swim 6.5km (4 miles) across the Bosporus strait from the European to Asian side of Istanbul. For something less competitive, check out tours with SwimTrek. You may find yourself swimming in the wild fjords of Oman with dolphins, or circumnavigating karst islands in the emerald green waters of Vietnam this time next year.

10. Relaxing completely on an all-inclusive break

Years of tumultuous political and social change – not to mention the cost-of-living crisis hitting many of us – have made a sure thing even more appealing than ever. That’s why an all-inclusive holiday is looking a lot more attractive in 2023. Knowing how much money you need makes managing a budget a lot simpler, and you lose all the time-sucking stress spent comparing flights, accommodation, transfers, tours and entertainment options. All-inclusives are no longer the preserve of the bargain fly-and-flop vacationer. Top-notch accommodations from St Lucia’s luxury East Winds to the Marriot Bonvoy collection offer all-inclusive deals. And British Airways offers attractive all-inclusive holidays around the Mediterranean for different budgets. Select your criteria – then let someone else make it all happen. You deserve a break.

Craving long winding roads, favorite songs on loop, travel buddies, wind in your hair? You’ve got the road trip fever, bestie! Better handle it right away. But ugh! Packing. What to wear on a road trip? If you find yourself asking this again, here’s a bit of help. Just the basics, because the new rule in fashion is “You do

The three Cs of what to wear on a long road trip

Remember the three Cs – Comfy, Casual, Chic. If you start thinking about an outfit idea at any point in this blog, make sure the three Cs of what to wear on a road trip check out. Now, summon all your inner strength and Marie Kondo your travel bag. Cause living out of a suitcase is all about limited options. So, what to keep and what to leave – here are your road trip style essentials.

Keep: T-shirts and tank tops

They don’t take up a lot of space in your bag; comfy for summer car rides and great for layering in cold temps. Love prints and logos? Go ahead, but throw in a few plain tees or tanks in neutral colors too. You never know what happens on a long journey. If you need to dial down the casual a bit, a plain white or black t-shirt will come in handy to wear with slacks and a blazer.

Leave: Everything tight and itchy

The fit of your clothing has to be just perfect for a road trip. Don’t start picturing baggy shorts and frumpy sweaters yet! It’s more like worn-in denims and shoes. Shoe bites from a new pair or the waistband cutting into your skin – oh! The end of day agony! Remember that you’ll be sitting around for hours, and any clothing that can turn your car ride into torture should be left at home or saved for a no-drive day.

Keep: A light cardigan or sweatshirt

Even when the sun promises to follow you all the way to your destination and back home. Why? Have you checked out the weather lately! The sun is no longer qualified to make such promises. Courtesy: Global warming. Also, you have to factor in air conditioning, especially if you get chilly before everyone else. Some of the roadside restaurants and rest stops will have their ACs on full blast in peak summers.

Leave: Pointy heels and flip flops

Okay, the flip-flops can go in your bag for some light walking but not for the car ride, especially if you are driving. The stilettoes – you don’t think they are uncomfortable? Respect! If you must carry heels – for a cute date or a night out – go for wedges or block heels. But pack them away till you reach your hotel or rental. No slip-ons or loose footwear that makes it difficult to control the pedals while driving.

Keep: Hats, socks, and sunglasses

A beanie for fall/winter and a summer hat or cap for spring/summer. Wind in your hair and arms in the air is all dreamy till you try to brush out your hair after the car ride. Scarves work too – you can cover your head and still look chic. A few pairs of socks need to go into your travel bag. The car’s floor vents could freeze your toes when they are out of the shoe. The sunglasses make a style statement and keep the glare out too.

Leave: Too many accessories

First of all, it’s hard organizing and packing all your chains, earrings, watches, hairpins, bags, etc. – especially the jewelry. So, when in doubt, go for one or two versatile pieces. Like a chain that can double up as a quick bracelet or a sling bag with detachable straps. If you are planning to go souvenir shopping, leave room for new accessories in your travel pack. That means what’s at home stays home.

Good news! Here are a few more things you can pack for your road trip:

• A denim jacket – pair well with anything for a cool Instagram #OOTD post and keeps you comfy too.
• Low-maintenance styles. Wrinkle-resistant fabrics like wool or synthetics. (Does not apply to tees and tank tops for the car ride.)
• Leggings or draw-string pants. Buttons, buckles, and belts can be uncomfortable for long hours of sitting.
• Gloves, boots, and raincoat/poncho – in case the weather plays spoilsport.
• A denim or flannel button-up shirt – totally cool and warm too.
• Maxi dress or a long skirt – easy, breezy, and great to cuddle up in.
• An LBD, for those day-to-night style transformations, dress-up or dress-down – the versatility of a little black dress is unparalleled.
• Pick your silhouette and fabric. It’s just got to be a black dress.

More Tips on what to wear on a road trip

Two simple rules for what to wear on a road trip

Dress and pack for when and where you are going: You know it’s going to get warmer as you get closer to your destination? Switch to shorts instead of jeans. Planning to take a dip in the sea en-route? Wear your bathing suit under your car outfit. Expecting a mid-day hike or walk around the shops, slip into comfortable sneakers.

Layering is the golden rule of travel fashion: Changing in restrooms or on the side of the road is such a hassle, especially when you have to pull something over your head. Zip-up sweatshirts or vests, button-down shirts, cardigans, jackets, and coats are road-trip essentials for this reason. Layer up in easy pieces to stay comfortable at all times.

Remember, these are only guidelines. Don’t forget to just ‘be you’ – road trips are all about enjoying the journey. Don’t stress the small stuff! Stay ready to stop and enjoy the view. Strike a pose and keep that #Roadtrip #OOTD looks moving on your socials. And if you are looking to take a break from driving, find parking near you right here.

Trekking Tips For Beginners: If you are considering heading out on one of the trekking paths, check up on these 7 survival recommendations before going on a trek.

Trekking Tips For Beginners: One fantastic outdoor sport that takes you on an exhilarating mountain journey is trekking. It might be a pretty thrilling beginning for a newcomer to explore some secret routes. But if you go into trekking entirely unprepared, things could go horribly wrong very quickly. Here are several fundamentals that might assist make being outside even more pleasurable and rewarding.

Once your trek is decided, you know what you need, so start collecting your essential gear and packing accordingly. You need to pack stuff in a way that you have all the things you need but it doesn’t get too heavy while you are travelling. You can keep things like sunglass and sunscreen, a flashlight, map, sleeping bag, first-aid kit, lighter, and sufficient water.

Even if your walk includes three meals, try to pack an extra box of snacks for between-meal snacks or emergency supplies. Bring energy-dense foods like sandwiches, buns, biscuits, and chocolates to keep you going during the journey. You’ll need food that won’t spoil when it comes to emergency meals. Consider dried fruit, dehydrated fruit, and protein snacks.

1. Start your journey with a reputable trekking organization since a knowledgeable guide will assist you in developing the necessary skills for a successful trek.
2. Wear high-quality clothing, such as track pants and a T-shirt with full sleeves. Wear a body raincoat at all times.
3. Hike your way through the trek by wearing hiking boots or trekking shoes.
4. Always be vigilant and aware because one error might cause harm to others as well.
5. Avoid drinking and smoking because they can have harmful effects.
6. A physical copy of the trail or route map for your walk should always be kept on hand.
7. Always carry a power bank to never run out of the phone’s battery.

Easy things you can do on a daily basis to live longer!

The ongoing pandemic has brought to the forefront the importance of mental and physical wellness. People have realised that leading a happy and healthy life is the key to living longer. For this reason, we spoke with health experts about easy lifestyle changes we can incorporate into our daily routines to live longer and more fulfilling lives. These are their best insights.

8 best tips from nutritionists and health experts to live longer

1. Follow a sustainable diet plan

Building a sustainable diet is more important than following a strict diet. “No one can stop eating out, not give in to stress eating once in a while, or stop desserts altogether. It’s important to follow a balanced diet 80% of the time and enjoy your weekly meal with dessert and drinks,” says Simran, fitness expert and co-founder, Simvalecha.

“Cut out non-nutritive foods like added sugars and start on limiting sweets. These foods cause inflammation, which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, joint pain, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Instead, follow sustainable diets rich in fruits and vegetables to stave off diseases and maintain a healthy weight,” states dietician Dr Archana Batra.

2. Stay active

It’s important to not limit your physical activity to that one hour in the gym or park but to stay active all day. “Don’t be seated for over 30 minutes at a time. Get up, stretch, and stay active throughout the day. According to WHO, physical inactivity has been identified as the fourth leading risk factor for mortality,” remarks nutritionist Lovneet Batra.

“Physical exercise and being active throughout the day is the key to a long life. Walking, running, gyming, aerobics, zumba, yoga, it could be any physical activity as per your choice, but the motive is to stay active,” adds Aayushi Lakhapati, nutritionist and co-founder, UpNourish.

3. Maintain a fulfilling social and spiritual life

“It is advisable to stay connected with a community as it not only helps our mental health, but it also helps to improve the quality of our life. Also, a parallel spiritual life is complementary to an overall sense of wellbeing and purpose,” says nutritionist Vinita Contractor.

“The best way to live a longer life is to have a 360° wellness routine that includes a balance of good nutrition, quality sleep, consistent exercise, a good work-life balance, and avenues like spiritual retreats that lead to personal growth. You can only live a longer life if your mind and body both are healthy and happy,” states Raveena Taurani, founder, Yogisattva.

4. Exercise regularly

Regular exercise is not only good for the body but also the brain.

“As we age, we naturally lose muscle mass and function, which can lead to an injury or disability. By exercising regularly, you reduce muscle loss, build bone density and maintain strength. Regular physical activity also improves insulin sensitivity, cardiovascular fitness, mental health and decreases blood pressure and fat levels,” adds Prateek Kumar, founder, FitCru.

“Exercising is among the easiest ways to boost your mood, sleep quality, and energy levels. A well-balanced resistance training program will set you off in the right direction. Be sure to include some mobility as well to keep you agile and injury free in the long term,” remarks Krishna Chandak, co-founder, TEGO.

“Research shows that people with higher muscle mass tend to have improved and longer life spans than those with poor muscle mass. Building muscles also helps prevent injuries that can reduce the quality of life,” says nutritionist Mugdha Pradhan, CEO and founder, iThrive.

5. Practice intermittent fasting

Fasting activates dozens of anti-aging pathways in both our body and brain. “A brain cell’s daily work creates waste products that have to be discarded. When our body goes a stretch of time without food, our cells get the signal that it’s time to clean the house. A few times a week, give them the opportunity to take out the trash by allowing at least 12 hours (gradually building it up to 18) between dinner and your first meal the next day,” states nutritionist Bhakti Kapoor.

6. Eat till you are 80% full

Calorie restriction reduces excess body weight, which is linked to shorter lifespans. “If you eat till you are 80% full, it is harder for you to consume too many calories, which leads to weight gain, obesity and other chronic diseases,” adds Vinita Contractor.

7. Consume protein for breakfast

“Amp up on lean protein, which will rev up your metabolism, help you lose any undesirable weight and stay fit. Protein boosts satiety and each bite promises significant kilo-dropping. You’ll see quick results when you begin your day with a protein-powered breakfast,” remarks Jilani Shaikh, health expert, JS9 Fitness.

8. Get adequate sleep

Sound sleep for 7-8 hours daily will help you live a better life. “Deep sleep promotes cell function and a healthier heart due to a balanced cortisol level. Your stress levels will be comparatively less and you will feel much more productive and energetic during the day because you are getting the required amount of rest,” concludes Harman Virk, co-founder and CEO, Oxie Nutrition.