Viva Magenta Travel Inspo: Where to Find Pantone’s 2023 Color of the Year!

A new year means a new Pantone Color of the Year — and this time, it’s in a vivacious shade called Viva Magenta. Described by the company as “a pulsating colour whose exuberance promotes a joyous and optimistic celebration,” it’s an electrifying blend of red and pink with blue and purple undertones.

And since we’re all about living our travel life in colour, why not venture to where you can admire this mesmerising hue up close? Granted, it’s rather hard to come by compared to Pantone’s previous selections, but we’re here to make things easier for you with this curated list. From flower fields and scenic lakes, to opulent buildings and rock formations, find out the best places to spot the Pantone Viva Magenta.  

Must-see Viva Magenta destinations around the world

1. Hutt Lagoon – Australia

Western Australia is home to many whimsical sights that look straight out of a fantasy novel. Case in point: Hutt Lagoon, a marine lake with shades that range from bubble gum pink, lilac, to violet-red — quite reminiscent of Pantone Viva Magenta! You can catch this magnificent sight from one of the many roadside viewing spots when you drive between Port Gregory and Kalbarri. 

Or better yet, why not take a plane tour for an overlooking view? Either way, make sure you stop by on a clear day and during mid-morning or sunset, when you can watch the waters transition from one shade to another. 

Also read: 15 Strange Destinations Around the World That Don’t Seem Real

2. Vinicunca, Cusco – Peru

Beyond Machu Picchu, there’s another destination in Peru that will leave you in awe. One look at Vinicunca and you would instantly get why it’s nicknamed the Rainbow Mountain. This famous natural wonder in the Andes mountains features unique mineralogy — resulting in a marbling effect on the layered hues that seem to cascade down its slopes. 

Those who wish to see this IRL will have to prepare for a one-day hike with a moderate difficulty level given the high elevations and steep inclines. You can also opt to explore via mountain bike or even on horseback. We also recommend spending a few days in the Cusco region prior to visiting Vinicunca, in order to acclimate to the high altitude. 

3. Putra Mosque, Putrajaya – Malaysia

Putrajaya is home to some of the country’s top landmarks, one of which also happens to be among the prettiest Viva Magenta destinations: the Putra Mosque. Constructed with rose-tinted granite, this domed lakeside structure is undoubtedly a sight to behold. Head inside for even more spectacular photo ops, where ornate details and pink-red colours decorate nearly every corner. Just remember to remain respectful of this place of worship during your visit! 

Also read: 15 Famous Buildings in Malaysia: Where to See Architectural Attractions

4. Hitachi Seaside Park, Ibaraki Prefecture – Japan

Come October, Hitachi Seaside Park turns into an autumn wonderland featuring a sea of Kochia scoparia bushes. The vibrant shades — ranging from fuchsia, maroon, to crimson — certainly make it one of the top Viva Magenta photo locations. Beyond these pom-pom-like sights, the park also boasts other attractions like cafes, restaurants, biking tracks, and even an amusement park. So, if you’re looking for more reasons to fly to Japan during this time of the year, then there you have it.

Also read: 10 Best Airbnb Homes & Vacation Rentals in Japan for the Trip of a Lifetime

5. Antelope Canyon, Arizona – United States

The intricate contours and crevices of Antelope Canyon make it look every bit dazzling. Its history is just as fascinating, as it was originally regarded as a holy place where the Navajo people would come to meditate and pray to their gods. While it’s a timelessly marvellous spectacle, the beams of light at noon (especially from April to September) offer the best photo ops. 

You’ll find this in the Arizonian portion of the Navajo Nation: the largest reservation belonging to a Native American tribe in the United States. So, it’s only fitting that this majestic ravine is a protected spot that can only be accessed through authorised tours. In fact, the tour guides who bring you through the canyon are also Navajos — guaranteeing an enriching, informative experience.

6. Keukenhof, Lisse – Netherlands

Arguably the most iconic among these Viva Magenta destinations is Keukenhof, aka the Garden of Europe. Hailed the world’s largest bulb-flower garden, it’s home to over 800 varieties of tulips that you’ll want to spend all day admiring. Head here between late March and early April to witness springtime splendour worthy of a fairytale scene. There are over seven million tulip bulbs — as well as other flowers like daffodils, lilies, and orchids — planted during this season. 

Also read: 10 Eye-Popping Flower Fields You’ll Want To See In This Lifetime

7. Laguna Colorada – Bolivia

Gazing at the Laguna Colorada and its candy-coloured landscape feels like stepping into a Surrealist painting. Nestled in the Bolivian Altiplano, this shallow saltwater lake is dotted with white borax isles and rare flamingo species. It’s surrounded by the Andes mountain range, as well as traditional villages — some of which have homestay offerings, allowing you to wake up to this view. 

Legend has it that the water is actually the blood of the gods. But in reality, it gets its Viva Magenta-like hue from the algae and minerals underneath. 

Also read: This Traveller From Malaysia Visited 85 Countries, 7 Continents, and 5 Oceans!

8. Magenta, Milan – Italy

Another must-add to your Viva Magenta travel bucket list? A part of Milan that’s literally called Magenta! This vibrant historic district brimming with centuries-old palazzos that were built in the Liberty architectural style: the Italian variant of France’s Art Nouveau. 

Take a walk along Corso Magenta, one of the city’s loveliest streets. Lining this street are bakeries, bars, theatres, clothing boutiques, and other spots where you can immerse in the neighbourhood’s rich culture. Make sure to stop by Santa Maria delle Grazie, the basilica that houses Leonardo Da Vinci’s The Last Supper! 

Also read: 8 Dreamiest Towns in Italy That Will Steal Your Heart

Ready to step into a “magenta-stic world” this year? With so many Viva Magenta destinations to choose from, there’s no better time than now to start planning your 2023 travels.