Are you wondering where to travel in 2025 for an unforgettable experience? TRAVELS.EDU.VN unveils the ultimate guide to the top destinations, blending cultural immersion with breathtaking landscapes. Forget endless searching and start exploring curated travel experiences that promise memories of a lifetime. Discover hidden gems and popular hotspots that define the essence of wanderlust.
1. Big City Thrills: Urban Escapes for 2025
1.1 Detroit: The Motor City’s Magical Comeback
Detroit is making a huge comeback. Experiencing Detroit’s revival is a must in 2025. After hosting nearly 800,000 people for the 2024 NFL Draft, the city’s revitalization is in full swing, with adaptive-reuse projects breathing new life into its neighborhoods. Mayor Mike Duggan enthusiastically shares, “It really is a magical time in Detroit right now, and we hope people will come to check it out for themselves.”
The Book Tower, reimagined in the heart of downtown, stands as a vibrant hub, housing a Roost hotel, Kamper’s Basque tapas bar, and upscale restaurants. This is one of the latest initiatives from Bedrock, Dan Gilbert’s real estate firm, which is instrumental in Detroit’s transformation; the Shinola Hotel is another transformative project. Gilbert emphasizes, “Detroit is growing faster than ever with creativity, talent, innovation, and opportunity.”
General Motors solidifies its future by establishing its global HQ at Hudson’s, a mixed-use development designed by Shop Architects and Hamilton Anderson Associates, which will also feature a future Edition hotel. The Michigan Central campus, revitalized through Ford’s $1 billion investment, has transformed from an urban decay symbol into an innovation hub in Corktown, designed to spark creativity and instill local pride.
1.2 Hong Kong and Shenzhen, China: A Tale of Two Cities
Experience the cultural fusion. A trip to both Hong Kong and Shenzhen is a must in 2025. Travelers are returning to Hong Kong to find refreshed luxury hotels, excellent infrastructure, and vibrant cultural offerings. The Kowloon side of Victoria Harbor is seeing significant upgrades, especially in the West Kowloon Cultural District. This area features the Art Park, Hong Kong Palace Museum with Chinese treasures, and the modern M+ gallery. The K11 Musea, a mixed-use development, is also home to the Rosewood Hong Kong and the refurbished Regent Hong Kong.
On Hong Kong Island, the Hopewell with 1,000 rooms and the Southside by Ovolo are welcoming visitors. Overnight high-speed trains connect Hong Kong to Shanghai and Beijing, and many residents now spend time in Shenzhen. Shenzhen is a modern metropolis known for its beaches and mountain views, growing rapidly into a major city in mainland China.
1.3 Marrakesh: A Moroccan Dream Within Reach
Marrakesh offers an exotic retreat. The new nonstop United Airlines flight from Newark to Marrakesh is one of the most anticipated routes, now giving U.S. travelers a direct connection to the enchanting Moroccan city. Stefanie Schmudde, a senior vice president at Abercrombie & Kent, shares her excitement, “It’s something we’re really excited about, as it’s going to make access much, much easier.”
The new Park Hyatt and newly renovated Four Seasons Resort, are reasons to explore this destination. The Oberoi, opened in early 2020, is an opulent stay, while Rosemary is a chic, five-room riad. The Nobu Hotel Marrakech Riad offers a private, six-bedroom villa inside the medina. The Selman Marrakech, ranked as the No. 5 hotel globally by T+L readers, is set to open a high-end restaurant with Jean-François Piège, from the two-Michelin-starred Le Grand Restaurant in Paris.
1.4 Portland: The Laid-Back Pacific Northwest
Portland presents an eco-friendly city escape. Portland attracts outdoor enthusiasts with over 250 public parks and an expanding network of multiuse trails. The city has also seen a 5% increase in biking since 2022. Recent additions include Cascada, Portland’s first underground thermal springs spa and eco-hotel, which opened in late 2024 in the Alberta Arts District.
The Portland Art Museum is undergoing a $111 million renovation, adding 100,000 square feet, including new galleries and the Mark Rothko Pavilion, scheduled to open in 2025. The $2 billion redevelopment of Portland International Airport includes a new nature-inspired main terminal, making the city even more accessible.
1.5 Rome: A Jubilee Celebration
Rome will celebrate the Jubilee in 2025. Experiencing Rome during this special year is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The Jubilee, celebrated every 25 years, will bring pilgrims to major religious sites in the Vatican, especially St. Peter’s Basilica. Andrea Grisdale, founder of IC Bellagio and a T+L A-List member, anticipates large crowds, particularly around Easter (April 20), but notes that “Next year offers a great opportunity to consider some of the lesser-known areas of Rome and to enjoy traveling at a slower pace.”
The city is anticipating a wave of hotels. Palazzo Talìa features 26 rooms, a Roman restaurant, and wellness center, designed by Luca Guadagnino. Romeo Roma, in a historic 16th-century palazzo updated by Zaha Hadid Architects, will offer several restaurants, including one from Alain Ducasse, and a wellness area with Sisley Paris. Casa Monti celebrates art and Rome’s bohemian lifestyle with 36 rooms. Scheduled for 2025 and 2026 are the Corinthia Rome, in the former Central Bank of Italy; the Mandarin Oriental, Rome, in 19th-century villas; and the Rosewood Rome, within three historic buildings. La Minerva, part of Orient Express, will reopen in 2025 after renovations with 93 rooms and suites by Hugo Toro. La Dolce Vita Orient Express, a new luxury train, will launch in spring 2025, offering itineraries around Italy with cuisine from Heinz Beck.
1.6 Sacramento, California: Discovering the Golden State’s Hidden Gem
Sacramento offers a unique experience. Sacramento International Airport’s $1.3 billion renovation will finish in 2025, expanding terminals, adding 13 locally sourced food options, increasing parking, and improving traffic flow. SMF will also accommodate nonstop flights to Mexico City, Orlando, Nashville, and Austin.
Mike Testa, president and CEO of Visit Sacramento, mentions that Sacramento’s food scene and music festivals “have flown somewhat under the radar,” and that visitors feel they’ve “been let in on a secret.” The city boasts 15 Michelin-recognized restaurants and a 2024 James Beard Award finalist, Billy Ngo of Kru. Pachamama Coffee was recognized as a Sustainability Pioneer in the 2024 Sustainable Food Awards. The Oakland Athletics will relocate to Sutter Health Park for the 2025–2027 MLB seasons. The Farm-to-Fork Festival and GoldenSky Country Music Fest, along with a new concert venue, Channel 24, enhance Sacramento’s appeal.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-city-sacramento-crest-theatre-WHERETOGO2025-e624e8ead3cb4bd59a0643f9d324aad2.jpg)
The Crest Theatre in downtown Sacramento, blending history and modern entertainment for an unforgettable experience.
2. Cultural Immersion: Deep Dives into History and Heritage
2.1 Budapest, Hungary: A Cosmopolitan Renaissance
Budapest is quickly becoming a cosmopolitan destination. A wave of new luxury hotels is complementing the city’s grand stalwarts. The W Budapest, opened in 2023 in the Drechsler Palace, is now a landmark on Andrássy Avenue.
In 2023, the Kimpton BEM Budapest, situated in a 19th-century residence, and the Dorothea Hotel, part of the Autograph Collection, launched. Városliget (City Park) has undergone a $1 billion restoration, creating new cultural spaces, such as the House of Music Hungary and the Museum of Ethnography. Gwen Kozlowski, of Exeter International, says, “Time and investment have turned Budapest into a very exciting city. From tiny vintners to food insiders to Jewish-history specialists, Budapest can speak to a variety of travelers.”
2.2 Bukhara, Uzbekistan: The Silk Road Rediscovered
Bukhara offers a chance to connect with history. The city is hosting the first Bukhara Biennial in 2025, aiming to highlight its crafts and folk art, which have gained international recognition. The September event, “Recipes for Broken Hearts,” will bring international creatives together to produce work within the country. The event will feature numerous Uzbek artists.
Larry Ossei-Mensah, a curator and cofounder of Artnoir, states, “The Bukhara Biennial serves as an incredible opportunity for artists and organizers to create moments where cultural legacies and contemporary ideas come into contact with each other in unexpected and inspiring ways. I’m excited to see the amazing art and dialogue that emerges from this project.”
2.3 Charleston, South Carolina: A Southern Gem
Charleston, beloved by T+L readers, is a must-see destination. Last summer saw the opening of the International African American Museum, and the inaugural Food & Wine Classic in Charleston brought together renowned chefs. The Beemok Hospitality Collection will open The Cooper, a five-star hotel on the downtown waterfront, in 2025, with 209 rooms and Cooper River views.
Also under Beemok Hospitality leadership, Charleston Place hotel will complete its renovations in 2025, and the new American Gardens park will debut in late 2025. The Dunlin, Auberge Resorts Collection, opened in August 2024 on Johns Island, offering 72 guest rooms and suites.
2.4 Inverness and the Flow Country, Scotland: Highland Heritage
Inverness is becoming a prominent destination in the Scottish Highlands. Inverness is the perfect base for exploring the stunning Highland scenery, castles, mountains, and wildlife. Chris Taylor, of VisitScotland, told T+L that Inverness is the ideal base to explore.
King Charles III visited The Flow Country, an extensive area of bogs and peatland added to UNESCO’s World Heritage list in July 2024. In 2025, the city will open the Inverness Castle Experience, turning the former prison and courts into a venue for history, music, and cuisine, with gardens and views. Cabot Highlands will open the first U.K. property from the Cabot Collection, offering play on the Castle Stuart Golf Links and a second 18-hole course, along with residential-style accommodations.
2.5 Lisbon and the Algarve, Portugal: A Tale of Two Regions
Lisbon is one of the best European Capitals. Lisbon is known for its yellow trams, historic neighborhoods, and fado music. Sheree M. Mitchell of Immersa Global says that Lisbon is “unlike any other European capital, with an unbelievable amount of soul. You can see, feel, and taste direct influences from Portugal’s colonial past as well as its present-day status as an international hub.”
A wave of new luxury hotels, including Six Senses Lisbon, Nobu Hotel Lisbon, The Standard, Lisbon, Kimpton Lisbon, and several Hilton properties, are opening in 2025. Amber Asher, the CEO of Standard International, calls Lisbon “somewhat affordable.” The Algarve region, a few hours away, features beaches, cliffs, and towns. United has a seasonal route from Newark to Faro planned for 2025. Luxury cruise line Ponant will debut a 14-day journey in the fall of 2025, with a stop in Lagos. Danilo Cerqueira highlights the Algarve’s eastern coastline as a hidden gem with a mixture of Mediterranean-Atlantic culture and Moroccan flavors.
2.6 Luxor, Egypt: Unveiling Ancient Wonders
Luxor offers an immersive experience. A new nonstop EasyJet flight from London will improve access to Luxor, famous for its collection of ancient temples. T+L editor in chief Jacqui Gifford recommends spending more time in Luxor.
Luxor’s reputation is enhanced by the Al Moudira hotel and the Beit Sabée guesthouse operated by Nour El Nil. The company also runs a fleet of dahabeahs, or cruising barges, including Poppee, which sets sail in November 2024.
2.7 Thailand: Destination of the Year
Thailand offers everything for travelers. From beaches, street food, and ancient temples. Thailand has also been named T+L’s 2025 Destination of the Year. In Bangkok, the Aman Nai Lert Bangkok and The Ritz-Carlton will open later this year, followed by Six Senses The Forestias and Hyatt’s Andaz in 2025. The White Lotus season three, set in the country, is slated for early 2025. Grant Ekelund recommends Kanchanaburi, a town in west Thailand, for its beautiful scenery, cool places to stay, and fascinating history.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-culture-thailand-chiang-mai-and-bangkok-WHERETOGO2025-3e7c988db187410888d88ff7dc41b6aa.jpg)
A collage of Thailand’s rich cultural tapestry, showcasing ancient temples in Chiang Mai and Bangkok.
3. For Adventurous Travelers: Off the Beaten Path
3.1 The Caucasus: Where East Meets West
The Caucasus offers a new perspective. Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia are attracting attention with a new itinerary from Atlas Obscura and Intrepid. These trips include cities such as Baku, Tbilisi, and Yerevan, allowing visitors to explore these destinations without logistical challenges. The tours include wineries, bakeries, crafts ateliers, historical sites, mosques, and churches, such as Gergeti Trinity. The tours also visit farms, go for hikes, and explore the sauna scene.
3.2 Greenland: An Arctic Frontier
Greenland is now becoming an attractive destination for many people. This Arctic island is experiencing rapid ice mass loss, coupled with a surge in tourism. Stefanie Schmudde, a senior vice president at Abercrombie & Kent, confirms, “Now is the time to visit.” Greenland’s first international airport will open in late 2024 in Nuuk. United will become the first U.S. airline to operate flights to the country in 2025. New tours explore wildlife and Indigenous culture. Intrepid has added a new 10-day expedition, and Natural Habitat Adventures is offering a two-week journey that combines Greenland and Iceland. Cruise operators are enhancing their presence with new itineraries from HX, Viking, Ponant, and Silversea.
3.3 Kumaon, India: Tranquility in the Himalayas
Kumaon offers peace in the Himalayan region. The area is opening the seven-cabin retreat, Shakti Prana, in October. This new property will join a string of mountain lodges from the brand, which has two decades of experience in high-elevation environments. Founder Jamshyd Sethna explains that you don’t have to be a hardcore hiker to enjoy Kumaon, “After much searching by our team, we found a heavenly plot of land on a mountaintop with the most stunning views of the Great Himalayas and the Ramganga River valley. It’s a location that provides a view that is, in my mind, really out of this world.”
3.4 Madagascar: A Biodiversity Hotspot
Madagascar offers a one of a kind experience. Despite being the world’s fourth-largest island and one of the most biodiverse, Madagascar has historically been a tough sell for travelers. Abercrombie & Kent and Red Savannah are adding itineraries for 2025 focusing on ecological riches: rainforests, canyons, the tsingy limestone formation, and endangered lemurs. Samantha Gordon notes that travelers want to see things their friends haven’t.
Emirates launched a new service linking Dubai and Madagascar’s capital in September. New hospitality offerings are also emerging, such as Namoroka Tsingy Camp, opened in August 2024. Voaara, a new oasis on Sainte Marie, and Masoala Forest Lodge, are also offering something unique. Suzanne Teng says now is the time to visit.
3.5 Nicaragua: Surfing and Nature’s Playground
Nicaragua offers so much to those visiting. Among surfers and nature lovers, Nicaragua feels like a well-kept secret. The Costanera Highway, slated to connect about 50 towns and beach communities by the end of 2025, is transforming the region. Luke Maish mentions, “The Costanera Highway is one of the most significant projects in Central America in recent decades.” He added it will be transformational for Nicaragua. Airlines are increasing flights, with United doubling flights from Houston to Managua. Resorts, including Rancho Santana and Mukul, offer access to surf breaks, wellness classes, and rainforest hikes.
3.6 The Philippines: An Archipelago of Wonders
The Philippines is now open for business. Sapphire-blue waters pierced by limestone cliffs. A cosmopolitan capital brimming with restaurants, art galleries, and nightlife. The Philippines deserves a fresh look from travelers. A new nonstop Philippine Airlines flight from Seattle adds travel options.
A dozen hotels have opened in Manila, including the Admiral Hotel, and new properties from Okura Hotels & Resorts and Marriott’s Westin brand. Palawan will welcome El Nido, from the Pavilions Hotels & Resorts. Tesa Totengco shares, “This archipelago of 7,641 islands has a lot to offer if one is willing to go deeper.”
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-adventure-philippines-nay-palad-hideaway-WHERETOGO2025-6c7ccee25933425784d140be201e47fa.jpg)
An aerial view of the pristine beach at Nay Palad Hideaway in the Philippines, offering a luxurious and secluded island escape.
3.7 Universal Orlando: Epic Expansion
Universal Orlando resort has been expanding. For almost 25 years since Disney and Universal opened their theme park in the United States, Universal Orlando Resort’s expansion will add Universal Epic Universe in 2025. Epic Universe will include lands featuring Dracula and Frankenstein, Nintendo franchises like Mario, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and new experiences. Karen Irwin announces this addition will transform Universal Orlando into a weeklong vacation destination.
4. For the Food and Drinks: Culinary Adventures Await
4.1 Colorado’s Western Slope: Wine in the Rockies
Colorado’s Western Slope offers a unique opportunity. This area is gaining recognition for Rieslings and other cool-climate grapes. Ray Isle states, “There’s definitely something there,” when talking about the wine scene here. There are upstarts like Carlson Vineyards, The Storm Cellar, and Sauvage Spectrum. This Grand Valley AVA enjoys a natural advantage against climate change, situated above 4,000 feet. There is hiking, mountain biking, and paddling in the Rockies.
4.2 Crete, Greece: A Mediterranean Feast
Crete is a must see on the Mediterranean. Crete is poised for its moment in the sun. The new InterContinental Crete opened in the summer of 2024 in Agios Nikolaos. Closer to Chania, the JW Marriott will unveil its first Greece property in 2025. The Rosewood Blue Palace is set to debut on Crete’s northern shore in 2026. These hotels provide excellent springboards for exploring Crete’s world-class cultural riches, and the island also has dramatic topography.
4.3 Osaka, Japan: Culinary Capital
Osaka offers foodies paradise. Thanks to its world-renowned culinary scene and nightlife, Osaka is fast becoming a must-visit for anyone heading to Japan. Expo 2025, running April through October, is expected to attract more than 28 million visitors. The Four Seasons opened in 2024 with 175 rooms and suites. Patina Hotels & Resorts will also open their first Japan property in the spring, next to Osaka Castle. The Rihga Royal Hotel Osaka is undergoing major renovations by April 2025 and will become the first Vignette Collection property in the city. Air Canada has added seasonal nonstop flights to the newly renovated Kansai International Airport.
4.4 Priorat, Spain: Spain’s Hidden Wine Gem
Priorat is becoming the hot destination for those who want the full wine experience. Wineries like Perinet and Clos de l’Obac are producing world-class reds. Clos Mogador and Cellers de Scala Dei have embraced sustainable winemaking practices, offering organic wine tastings.
Jesus Repetto explains that these wineries are helping redefine the experience to visit a wine region. The culinary scene is also booming, with restaurants such as Brots and Quatre Molins earning Michelin recognition. Gran Hotel Mas d’en Bruno and Brichs are also innovative spots. More hotels and villas are soon to come.
4.5 San Antonio, Texas: Texas Tastes
San Antonio cuisine is an art form. The first Michelin Guide to Texas awarded 15 stars across the state, acknowledging what restaurant lovers already know about their culinary ability.
Chef Jason Dady will be opening Mexico Ceaty in early 2025, which will highlight Mexican cuisine. Also, Pullman Market has an ethos to exemplify farm to market food choices. Kevin Fink mentions that our market highlights the difference and value of truly fresh and local.” Some new places to stay include the Kimpton Santo and the InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk.
4.6 San Diego: A California Culinary Destination
San Diego now welcomes food enthusiast. New restaurants are further bolstering San Diego’s culinary cred. Tara Monsod, executive chef of Animae, opened the modern French steak house Le Coq. The city also welcomed its first omakase yakitori restaurant, Yakitori Tsuta, this year. Other restaurants are the Travis Swikard and Lucien, set to debut in 2025. Monsod states, “There’s an undeniable energy here — creativity and passion are coming from all the chefs. The city is buzzing to be recognized as a true culinary destination.”
4.7 Slovenia: Europe’s Best Kept Secret
Slovenia is the best kept secret. Black Tomato introduces new experiences in Slovenia for 2025, a country known for its beautiful scenery, dynamic wine, and culinary scene. There will be three wine regions, including Primorska, Posavje, and Podravje. Slovenia has impressed the Michelin inspectors, with 63 restaurants earning recognition in 2024. In addition, many hotel renovations and openings, giving visitors more choice for high-end stays.
4.8 Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico: Baja’s Wine Country
Valle de Guadalupe offers quality wines. Mexican winemakers have been crushing grapes for more than 300 years in the region. This year, El Cielo Resort received 12 awards for its wines at the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles. Many are highlighting local winemaking through wine bars like Bloodlust. The region lies about 90 miles south of San Diego on the Baja California peninsula.
This region is home to more than 200 wineries, Michelin-starred restaurants, and boutique hotels that are increasingly leaning luxury. Banyan Group entered the scene this year with the opening of Banyan Tree Veya Valle de Guadalupe, a 30-villa property.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-food-valle-de-guadalupe-mexico-bruma-winery-WHERETOGO2025-b2c672262d504d48a26fb458c65ddadb.jpg)
A tasting at Bruma winery in Valle de Guadalupe, where local labels offer a taste of Mexican winemaking excellence.
5. Moments on the Water: Coastal Escapes and Oceanic Adventures
5.1 Apostle Islands, Wisconsin: A Spiritual Hub
Apostle Islands are now welcoming tourist. These Lake Superior islands are seeing their status as a spiritual and commercial hub for the Ojibwe come toward center stage. Mike Wiggins Jr. mentions his excitement in that these artifacts are incorporated into contemporary exhibits. Ojibwe chef Bryce Stevenson is also a key figure in the movement.
5.2 Barbados: A Caribbean Gem
Barbados is a place with lots to offer. The rugged east coast has hiking and crashing Atlantic waves, a go-to spot for experienced surfers. The western, Caribbean shore has calm waters, five-star resorts, and upscale restaurants. Kim Clarke states, “This island promises an unforgettable experience.”
Newly upgraded Harrison’s Cove Eco-Adventure Park offers ziplining and obstacle courses, while those craving calm can simply soak in the warm sun and crystal-clear waters. Barbados is also more accessible than ever, thanks to new daily American Airlines flights from New York. New boutique hotel The Rockley is near Bridgetown, while experiences, such as the Oistins Fish Fry, remain as alluring as ever.
5.3 The French Riviera: Coastal Elegance
The French Riviera is now welcoming tourist. This golden stretch of coast between Nice and St.-Tropez has a reinvigorated region. Hôtel du Couvent, the latest property from Valéry Grégo, is in a 17th-century monastery overlooking Nice. The Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel and a new Mama Shelter are also present. Arev has brought a breath of fresh air to St.-Tropez, with a glamorous, playful aesthetic that nods to its coastal location. Le Mas Candille, reopened in June, sits on a hillside outside Mougins.
5.4 Iceland, by Cruise Ship: A Unique Perspective
Visiting Iceland by ship makes the experience unique. Passengers can see rarely visited northern reaches of the island. Lilja Dögg Alfreðsdóttir notes that cruises can help diffuse crowds by taking people off the typical tourist trail. Cruise line Viking will offer several weeklong circumnavigations in 2025. Regent Seven Seas Cruises will host a 10-day round-the-country sail, and Oceania Cruises has a dozen departures in 2025.
5.5 Nova Scotia, Canada: Maritime Charm
Nova Scotia offers unique experiences. The area is just as deserving of fame. American Airlines has launched daily service from New York’s La Guardia Airport to Halifax. The 109-room Muir Halifax, is also right on the city’s waterfront. You can consider a detour to Sable Island National Park Reserve, or can get a jet boat, with a four-hour drive from Halifax.
5.6 Tasmania, Australia: Island Exploration
Tasmania offers great views of the landscape. This island state has glacial lakes, rain forests, and vertical sea cliffs. Its best way to explore is by sea. On Board Tasmanian Expedition Cruises launched its route around the state in the spring of 2024, giving up to 12 guests the chance to explore one of the world’s most remote frontiers. This is another place you can explore.
5.7 Trieste, Italy: Coffee and Coastal Charms
Trieste has Italy’s famous coffee. Italians are a harbor master, Trieste has become an alternative destination for cruise ships. and his first stop for visiting friends and family is always the iconic Viennese-style Caffè degli Specchi in Piazza Unità d’Italia.
5.8 Star Seeker: Windstar’s Newest Voyage
Star Seeker offers the best small ships in the world. Windstar has added a new 112-cabin ship, Star Seeker, to its lineup at the end of 2025. The ship, which will spend early 2026 in the Caribbean, will later transit the Panama Canal, sail the summer in Alaska, and then continue on to Japan.
5.9 Viking Vela: Expansion on the Seas
Viking Vela has been expanding, now launching its first cruise. Viking is breaking with tradition by building a bigger ship. Viking Vela, which is slated to launch in December 2024, will be the first 998-passenger vessel from the line. The new ship will spend the first part of 2025 sailing in the Mediterranean before heading to northern Europe for summertime sails in Scandinavia.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-water-viking-vela-suite-veranda-WHERETOGO2025-3195fdea06944a8d8d6b9f48894f85fe.jpg)
An Explorer Suite veranda on the Viking Vela, offering a personal ocean view and luxurious cruise experience.
6. For Nature Lovers: Embracing the Great Outdoors
6.1 Anchorage, Alaska: Urban Meets Wilderness
Anchorage, Alaska offers both the city and wilderness, creating the ideal blend. Anchorage is the state’s largest city and worthy of a closer look.
New routes from Alaska Airlines, Delta, and United are making this city that much easier to get to from all across the Lower 48, with better service from Detroit, New York, San Diego, and Washington, D.C. The Wildbirch Hotel will also open in early 2025,
6.2 Bhutan: Measuring Happiness
Bhutan offers a one of a kind cultural experience. Bhutan is positioning the country as a crowd-free alternative to just about anywhere else in the world. Travelers can navigate the Trans-Bhutan Trail, a 250-mile, cross-country pathway that officially reopened in 2022. Many of them can help visitors navigate the Trans-Bhutan Trail, a 250-mile, cross-country pathway that officially reopened in 2022. The new Tourism Services Portal is helping others learn what to see in this area.
6.3 Deer Valley, Utah: A Skier’s Paradise
Deer Valley is the place for skiing. Deer Valley East Village will be opening the season with with three chairlifts and 300 skiable acres, plus day-skier amenities. There’s also the new Grand Hyatt Deer Valley, with 381 rooms and suites and multiple dining venues, slated to open November 20. Deer Valley will encompass [5,700 acres of skiable terrain.
6.4 Fiji: Paradise Found
Fiji welcomes those who visit for beaches. The national carrier Fiji Airways is launching nonstop service between Dallas Fort Worth International Airport and Nadi International. The new connection, which debuts in December 2024, will coincide with numerous developments in the islands, such as the opening on Denarau of Trilogy Villas. The Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort & Spa, is also a new location.
6.5 Huaraz, Peru: Andean Adventure
Huaraz offers adventure in the Andes. Huaraz is a gateway to the Andes and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the natural riches of Huarascán National Park. That changed last July, when LATAM reintroduced flights between the capital and Huaraz.
6.6 Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil: A Unique Ecosystem
Lençóis Maranhenses offers something truly special. Added to UNESCO’s World Heritage list earlier this year, this destination is becoming more popular. The new Oiá is bringing a bit of glam to the dunes, with a stylish lodge and a pair of chic bungalows.
6.7 Yukon, Canada: Northern Lights and Wilderness
Yukon Canada is a must see on the bucket list. To catch the show, head for Whitehorse, the capital of this territory that borders Alaska. Raven Inn & Suites is a comfortable option in town, while a short drive away is the Northern Lights Resort & Spa, which has glass-fronted chalets for prime viewing opportunities. Yukon Black Spruce Cabins is another rustic-chic option, with a cedar sauna; there’s also Eclipse Nordic Hot Spring, which has four heated pools and the option to take cold plunges. There are also a few indigenous guides to help plan your trip.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-nature-yukon-hiking-WHERETOGO2025-ccd926386f8e4230991b051414e7ba65.jpg)
Experience nature on a hike in Yukon, with stunning scenery and trails, making for an unforgettable trip.
7. For Beach Vibes: Sun, Sand, and Serenity
7.1 Costalegre, Mexico: Mexico’s Hidden Coast
Costalegre offers the happiness coast. There are untouched beaches and wild, windswept nature, Mexico’s Costalegre should be on your list for 2025. There is more than eight miles of private shoreline.
The new Chalacatepec International Airport in Jalisco is expected to begin operations in late 2024. An expansion on the Puerto Vallarta airport is also in the works to accommodate an uptick in visitors, and Xala, will open in phases, joining the buzzy Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo.
7.2 Grenada: The Spice Island Shines
Grenada has a luxury hotel, making it one to visit. New luxury hotels, are making Grenada a special place. The food scene in Grenada is also getting attention. With a few James Beard Award–winning chefs dreaming up new food and spice experiences for visitors. Several airlines are making it easier to reach from new locations.
7.3 Sanibel Island, Florida: A Resilient Paradise
Sanibel Island has made a comeback. Restaurants, shops, and attractions have reopened with new facades and shiny new interiors; hotels are welcoming guests. The beaches, known for their abundance of seashells and sand dollars, are once again filled with treasures. Nature, too, is thriving.
7.4 Santa Monica, California: Celebrating 150 Years
Santa Monica has a 150th anniversary in 2025. Ocean Avenue’s Sandbourne Santa Monica and the just-opened Regent Santa Monica Beach are new to visit. The flavors were inspired by his Egyptian roots. Misti Kerns says that now is the time to experience the city’s “unique, laid-back luxury experiences.
7.5 St. Vincent and the Grenadines: A Tropical Escape
St. Vincent and the Grenadines offers peace on the sea. Longtime draws such as the active volcano Mount Soufrière, with its stunning views, and idyllic Salt Whistle Bay remain central to the destination’s appeal. There are plenty of new festivals and things to see.
7.6 Turks and Caicos: Caribbean Luxury
Turks and Caicos offers great views on luxury hotels. Turks and Caicos is the place for sunshine and where vibes are always right. The southern shores of Providenciales are now home to the 92-key South Bank. The island of South Caicos will be increasingly easy to reach, thanks to new nonstop American Airlines flights from Miami.
TRAVELS.EDU.VN helps you plan your next vacation and offers you a variety of options. Our travel agency helps you plan your next adventure. Contact travels.edu.vn at 123 Main St, Napa, CA 94559, United States, or call us on Whatsapp: +1 (707) 257-5400. Visit TRAVEL
