Unmissable Travel Hotspots to Explore in 2025

CNN
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The planet is more expansive and interconnected than it has ever been in human history. Contemporary aircraft can whisk individuals from New York to Singapore or from London to Cape Town, trips that would have demanded weeks or even months in earlier times.

However, at times, excessive options can be overwhelming. We’re living in a period of FOMO—fear of being left out. Social media creates the impression that nearly everyone you’ve ever known is enjoying an adventurous getaway at any moment, so how do we decide which destinations to explore?

CNN Travel holds the view that every destination possesses unique attributes that warrant a visit. Nevertheless, our team has assembled a list of 25 locations we believe are particularly deserving of a visit in 2025.

The striking landscapes and distinctive urban areas of Central Asia are proving to be especially attractive. At the forefront is Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan, which, as we recently reported, has emerged as the region’s new “Capital of Cool.”

It is one of those rare cities that offers everything—fantastic cuisine, a vibrant nightlife, an expanding arts and culture scene, and convenient access to some of the globe’s most breathtaking, untouched terrains, thanks to its location at the foot of the Tian Shan mountains.

The metro stations in Almaty are truly artistic masterpieces, perfectly complementing its world-class museums, including the Abilkhan Kasteev State Art Museum, which is home to over 20,000 works of art, and the Tselinny Center of Contemporary Culture, which will relocate to new facilities in 2025.

What should you try to eat? Almaty is recognized as the birthplace of “Neo Nomad cuisine,” a fusion of contemporary cooking methods and traditional ingredients utilized by the nomadic communities inhabiting the country’s vast grasslands. Commence your culinary adventure at the beautiful Auyl restaurant in the Medeu Valley to the south of the city,

Traveling to Almaty is relatively straightforward as well. It is reachable through direct flights from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, and Kazakhstan permits visa-free entry for citizens from a long list of nations, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. — Karla Cripps

Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

Situated across the Bay of Bengal, this Union Territory of India has historically been challenging to access, rendering it a place many Indians have never visited. That could begin to change as the archipelago’s inaugural scheduled international passenger flight—from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to the islands’ capital, Port Blair—was launched in late 2024.

Those who are aware of this region may unfortunately associate it with John Allen Chau, the former American missionary who attempted to spread Christianity to an uncontacted tribe on North Sentinel Island and ultimately lost his life. However, accessing North Sentinel from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is incredibly challenging—and illegal—and it would be regrettable to dismiss these beautiful, welcoming locals and the hospitality they provide.

Those fortunate enough to have visited often liken this chain of islands to the Maldives—before the arrival of major international hotel brands. Anticipate refreshing juices, chai tea, and breakfast parathas at locally owned cafes, pristine beaches that stretch endlessly in both directions, and an abundance of aquatic activities such as snorkeling and kayaking.

Barren Island, which features India’s only active volcano, is reachable via private boat, while Swaraj Dweep, just a short ferry ride from Port Blair, is a paradise for scuba divers.

Internet connectivity in the archipelago is often inconsistent at best, so take advantage of the opportunity to trulyunplug — possibly the greatest indulgence of them all. — Lilit Marcus

Bequia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines

“Everyone aspires to go England, my aspiration’s to visit Bequia,” are the opening lyrics of a soca tune by artist Marlo Benn, honoring the allure of this seven-square-mile isle that resembles a lightning bolt.

Upon taking a closer inspection of Bequia, articulated as Beck-way, it’s straightforward to understand why this breathtaking locale of ivory sand beaches, consistently warm climates, and vibrant tropical greenery would evoke such fondness. Located a half-hour flight from the Caribbean isle of Barbados, Bequia is among the 32 isles forming St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Although its neighboring Mustique is certainly more renowned, Bequia’s charm remains irrefutable.

In 2024, the island faced category 4 Hurricane Beryl, yet Bequia has rebounded more resiliently than ever, with a notable rise in visitors recorded in September.

Stretching for miles of pristine shoreline, Princess Margaret Beach, named after the younger sibling of Queen Elizabeth II of England, is the most recognized. It’s arguably the most picturesque beach as well, and certainly merits a visit. In the nearby Friendship Bay, the Bequia Heritage Museum provides an exhaustive glimpse into the island’s history, encompassing its enduring whaling heritage.

Simultaneously, Bequia’s yearly TradeWinds yacht gathering, which honors the culture and maritime legacy of the Grenadines, attracts visitors from around the globe each year. — Tamara Hardingham-Gill

August 6 marks the bicentennial of Bolivia proclaiming its sovereignty from Spain, led by Simón Bolivar, who became the inaugural president of this South American nation.

Though details surrounding the celebrations are still confidential, 2025 indicates a year filled with festivities. While most travelers tend to extend their stay in Bolivia as part of a more extended journey to Peru, “the country stands as a destination in its own right,” affirms Journey Latin America’s Laura Rendell-Dunn. “You can effortlessly spend two weeks or more discovering its numerous highlights.”

The dining scene in capital La Paz is closely catching up with that of Lima, featuring establishments like Gustu, established by Noma co-founder Claus Meyer and currently overseen by Bolivian chef Marsia Taha. It’s receiving accolades globally for its innovative take on traditional Bolivian cuisine, including alligator paired with copoazu (a sweet fruit from the Amazon) and llama served with llullucha (a staple Andean algae).

Premium hotels such as Atix offer luxurious accommodations at an altitude of 11,975 feet (3,650 meters) in La Paz. In more rural settings, one can find barefoot luxury such as Airstream campers situated on the expansive Salar de Uyuni salt flats.

Wherever your travels lead you in Bolivia — whether to Lake Titicaca (neighboring Peru in the Andes, it’s recognized as the world’s highest navigable lake), Tiwanaku (an adjacent pre-Incan site) or UNESCO-listed Sucre with its colonial Spanish architecture — you shall discover upscale lodgings and, typically, less crowds compared to the neighboring Peru. — Julia Buckley

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Previously named Karl-Marx-Stadt, this Eastern German metropolis is renowned for its monumental bronze head, recognized as the “second-largest bust globally,” depicting the 19th-century thinker. Installed in 1971, this striking statue serves as a reminder of Chemnitz’s intricate history and has consistently been a major draw for tourists. However, Marx never set foot in the place during his lifetime.

This year, attention is turning to its numerous other remarkable attributes. Chemnitz gleams as one of the 2025 European Capitals of Culture alongside Slovenia’s Nova Gorica. Once among the wealthiest cities in Germany, Chemnitz’s vibrant diversity is being honored through jazz, indie and dance festivals, street art, classic car parades, and exhibitions.

Guests will also have the opportunity to admire Chemnitz’s varied architectural designs. The dual-section town hall — comprising the Old Town Hall, or Altes Rathaus, built in the 15th century, and the Art Nouveau New Town Hall, Neues Rathaus, constructed in the early 20th century — is one of the most exceptional instances.

Under the slogan “C the Unseen,” officials are promoting cultural initiatives such as the Purple Path, an art and sculpture trail linking Chemnitz with 38 municipalities and communities, showcasing the city’s dedication to converting small public areas into community hubs.

“The cultural framework illustrates remarkably where the cultural core of Europe will pulse in 2025: in Chemnitz!” states the program’s managing director Stefan Schmidtke. — THG

Various footpaths, bridleways, and byways meander through the English countryside, many of which have been traversed by people for centuries. Access to these paths is protected by legislation enacted over 75 years ago. This guarantees that, regardless of land ownership, there is typically a marked trail, ensuring that some of the most picturesque vistas globally remain accessible to everyone.

England may lack the dramatic mountain trails present in other regions of the world, but just steps away from nearly every entrance, there lies a hedge-lined path leading into a verdant tunnel of arching trees or a whimsically swaying moorland.

Well-known long-distance paths such as the Pennine Way (celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2025), Coast-to-Coast or South Downs Way attract attention, but the quieter areas of the nation boast their own designated trails. Indeed, anyone equipped with an Ordnance Survey map can forge their own path.

Only in London? Discover the Capital Ring Walk — a segmented path that encircles the city’s outskirts and hidden natural spaces. Alternatively, take the London Underground’s Metropolitan Line and explore the Chess Valley Walk from Chesham to Rickmansworth: 10 miles (16 kilometers) of predominantly rural serenity with a Tube station at both ends. — Barry Neild

Eswatini and Mpumalanga province, South Africa

The diminutive landlocked nation of Eswatini — once referred to as Swaziland
“`— has partnered with the South African region of Mpumalanga and its neighboring country Mozambique for a transnational tourism project referred to as TRILAND 2024-2025.

The objective is to establish a tourism route throughout the southeastern African area, and while the US government currently discourages travel to Mozambique, its TRILAND associates are prepared for visitors.

Mpumalanga province features the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, which ranks as the third largest canyon globally after the Grand Canyon and Fish River Canyon in Namibia. What differentiates Blyde River is its dense coverage of lush subtropical greenery. God’s Window is among the most breathtaking viewpoints along the Panorama Route. Travelers frequently pair it with a visit to Kruger National Park, located just over an hour’s drive away.

In Eswatini, Sibebe Rock serves as Africa’s equivalent to Australia’s Uluru, but without the throngs of people. Situated merely 10 kilometers north of the capital Mbabane, it is the largest exposed granite pluton in the world. It presents a challenging yet gratifying hike, ideally completed with a guide, navigating marked paths, and during the dry season (April to September). — Maureen O’Hare

Gdańsk, Poland

Gdańsk is perhaps most renowned for being the site where World War II officially commenced, as well as the birthplace of the Solidarity movement, which significantly contributed to the fall of communism in Poland. However, this port city, located on the Baltic coast, has much more to offer beyond its historical significance.

Previously known as Danzig, Gdańsk was almost entirely reconstructed after the previously mentioned conflict, emerging as one of Poland’s most captivating and colorful cities. Appropriately, the Museum of the Second World War, a grand prism located along the city’s waterfront, is recognized as one of the most remarkable examples of stunning architecture. Additionally, the 14th-century Artus Court and the St. Mary’s Church in the Old Town, considered one of the world’s largest brick churches standing at 78 meters (256 feet) tall.

In 2023, the European Commission’s Report on the Quality of Life in European Cities rated Gdańsk among the top cities for living, with most residents expressing satisfaction regarding their living conditions.

This year signifies a pivotal moment for the city, with the completion of its “transformative” port terminal, advancing Gdańsk toward its aspiration of becoming the primary gateway to Central and Eastern Europe. — THG

Back in the 1970s, Pakistan was a prime destination for adventure travel, its breathtaking mountain landscapes a central stop on the “Hippie Trail” overland journey from Europe to South Asia. Years of political unrest put a halt to that, but those majestic peaks remain intact.

The Gilgit-Baltistan area within the Karokoram Mountains isn’t the simplest place to reach — air travel schedules can be erratic, and roads may be inaccessible seasonally — but it boasts more mesmerizing peaks than a lemon meringue pie.

It houses five of the 14 “eight-thousander” mountains recognized as the highest on the planet. This includes K2, the second tallest peak across the globe but ranked first in terms of challenge and peril.

Regarding tourism and infrastructure, hikingin this area render the Himalayas appear like a stroll in Central Park.

Last year, Nepal prohibited solo trekking across the nation, and likewise, this is a location where venturing alone is not feasible. However, it is now reachable via excursions arranged by trustworthy international travel firms, such as G Adventures and Wild Frontiers. Intrepid provides a 10-day, fully accompanied trek through the area known as “Little Tibet,” beginning at approximately $3,000. — MOH

Affluent travelers are eagerly anticipating the debut of La Dolce Vita Orient Express, an ultra-luxurious train that will navigate Italy starting in April, featuring eight itineraries. These will encompass popular routes from Venice and Tuscany to lesser-explored regions of southern Italy, such as Abruzzo and Basilicata (the Eternal Stones of Matera itinerary), as well as connections from Sicily to Rome and back.

For those of us with tighter budgets, it’s a relief to learn that we don’t need to invest five figures to travel the rails with elegance in Italy.

Recently, in December, state-owned Trenitalia was named the leading operator in Europe, earning high marks for its “travel experience.” Its rapid Frecce trains link major cities along a T-shape down the peninsula, frequently quicker than flying. For a taste of dolce vita luxury, consider booking the Executive class, a car featuring spacious reclining chairs and butler service.

Additionally, the Treni Turistici Italiani (TTI) trains — frequently vintage models — have been refurbished and redesigned for an opulent visitor experience. New routes for 2025 will include a summer service crossing the border from Milan to Saint-Raphaël on France’s Côte d’Azur, as well as a seasonal night train from Rome to Lecce in the warm southern Puglia region. — JB

Nestled in the northeastern part of Turkey between the Black Sea and Georgia lies this thousand-kilometer stretch of coastal mountains. The Kaçkar Mountains’ temperate, moist climate creates an alpine paradise teeming with diverse flora and fauna.

During the summer, the hills are adorned with wildflowers, drawing hikers to the area, while hazelnut orchards and tea gardens showcase the region’s exceptional produce.

This region is also home to the sought-after Caucasian honey bee, and beehives are a frequent sight in this tranquil and pastoral area, which has been designated as a national park since 1994.

In October, tourists arrive to marvel at the stunning oranges and yellows of the autumn foliage. The jagged summits of the mountains reach nearly 4,000 meters (13,120 feet), and glaciers along with glacial lakes can be found in their higher altitudes. There are numerous waterfalls and streams, including the 63-meter (207-foot) Maral Waterfall, one of the tallest in the nation.

Skiing and heli-skiing are gaining traction as winter pursuits, despite the tourism sector here still being in its nascent stages.

However, this is expected to change, as the inauguration of Rize-Artvin Airport on the Black Sea coast in 2022 has greatly improved accessibility for international guests. A flight from Istanbul lasts just over two hours. — MOH

Osaka will host Expo 2025 from April to October. As Japan’s second-largest city is already immensely popular with global

Travelers should leverage the country’s exceptional rail network to venture out and investigate more of the Kansai area, which includes 10 prefectures in the south-central part of Japan.

In Nara, explore UNESCO-recognized temples at twilight as the city’s famed deer emerge to engage with visitors — even accepting treats from their palms and bowing in gracious appreciation.

Next, be sure to include a stop at Himeji Castle, renowned as the “white heron” for its resemblance to a bird soaring, before the entry fee increases in 2026. — LM

While Buenos Aires rightfully takes pride in its gastronomic offerings, Mendoza might proclaim, “Hold my glass.” Wine glass, to be precise. Located approximately 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) east of the renowned capital, Mendoza enjoys its well-deserved acclaim as a paraíso del vino.

In total, the region is home to around 1,200 wineries, with Malbec highly esteemed here. This metropolitan locale is also recognized for its exceptional dining establishments and spas, tree-lined boulevards, and sunny weather. The scenery here is breathtaking, with the soaring Andes Mountains providing a stunning backdrop to the city. If wine isn’t your preference, alternative ways to unwind are available.

If you don’t mind the throngs, think about visiting during the annual Fiesta de la Vendimia. Activities throughout Mendoza province commence in January and February, peaking in March, when around 40,000 guests arrive to taste local wine varieties. If you decide to go at that time, you’ll be visiting during the Argentinian summer.

Explore the charming General San Martín Historical Park, famed for its 500 varieties of roses and Natural Science Museum. Alternatively, embark on a day trip to the relaxing Cacheuta thermal springs — you can even catch an economical bus and let others handle the driving. — Forrest Brown

This year is expected to be even more significant than usual for country music in Nashville: The Grand Ole Opry is celebrating its 100th anniversary.

On November 28, 1925, radio station WSM introduced what was then known as WSM Barn Dance, marking the inception of the legendary country music showcase. Now the longest-running radio program in history, the Opry has showcased artists such as Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Willie Nelson, and Dolly Parton, along with today’s emerging talents.

The Ryman Auditorium, referred to as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” hosted the Opry for numerous years before the performance moved to the current Opry House in 1974. Guests can explore both venues. Additionally, 2025 is set to see a record number of performances on the Opry schedule, including special birthday and anniversary celebrations and select dates at the Ryman.

There are other exciting happenings in Music City. A fresh, mixed-use development, Nashville Yards, is anticipated to open in 2025, anchored by a music venue with a capacity of 4,500 people, The Pinnacle.

Furthermore, there is an ongoing initiative to introduce more Asian cuisine to Nashville with the establishment of its first Chinatown. This project, situated southeast of downtown in Antioch, will feature a Pan-Asian grocery store expected to open this year, alongside numerous dining establishments and retail outlets to follow. — Marnie Hunter

Almost any island in the South Pacific where you toss a dart may appear to be an adequately secluded dot on the map. Yet, in terms of lesser-explored islands in this unmatched region of the globe, it is challenging to find a place that rivals Niue.

The diminutive self-governing Polynesian isle, which has a free association with New Zealand (inhabitants possess New Zealand passports), is located roughly between Fiji and the Cook Islands. Since 2022, 100% of Niue’s maritime territory has been recognized as a multi-use marine park, featuring an extensive no-take zone that provides essential habitat for grey reef sharks and the unique katuali sea snake.

Humpback whales journey, give birth, and play with their calves just offshore from the 100-square-mile island between late June and October, when tourists have the chance to snorkel and occasionally scuba dive alongside them in waters that often feature 160 feet of visibility (as Niue lacks surface water running off, the adjacent ocean is remarkably clear).

Even guests who remain on solid ground at locations such as Scenic Matavai Resort regularly spot humpbacks passing in the waters during the season (the hotel’s “whale bell” chimes to signal their appearance).

Wonders abound above the sea’s surface as well. “Sea tracks” referred to as Hala Tahi connect the island’s communities to the cliff’s precipice and descend to the reefs below, where intriguing limestone caverns and chasms along with pristine swimming and snorkeling spots, reputedly favored by Niuean royalty, await exploration. With a population of just 1,700 (approximately 600 of whom reside in the small capital, Alofi), Niue stands as a stargazing haven being the first nation in the world to obtain Dark Sky designation.

Most travelers arrive via Air New Zealand flights from Auckland (3.5 hours) that operate several times a week, maintaining low visitor numbers. — Terry Ward

Nuuk, Greenland

The rugged terrains and astounding wildlife of Greenland have recently become somewhat more attainable, due to the inauguration of Nuuk International Airport. This newly enhanced aviation center in Greenland’s capital features a 2,200-meter (7,217-foot) runway, permitting larger aircraft to land in the Arctic Danish territory for the first time. This summer, United Airlines will commence the inaugural direct flight from the US to Greenland, arriving in Nuuk.

The city serves as an excellent starting point for discovering the rest of Greenland by boat or plane — from immersing oneself in the culture of the local Inuit community at the Icefjord Centre in Ilulissat to marveling at icebergs while contemplating the effects of the climate crisis at Disko Bay. However, Nuuk is not solely a portal to Greenland. The city boasts highlights including the history-laden National Museum and Archives, alongside the striking Sedna statue on the shoreline, honoring the Inuit sea goddess.

As the number of visitors to Greenland continues to rise, tourists can contribute to promoting sustainable tourism practices by employing local guides — whether for a community-led walking tour of the city or to visit the nearby Nuup Kangerlu, a vast fjord that provides opportunities for spotting humpback whales amidst stunning mountain landscapes. — Francesca Street

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Rugged landscapes, cascading waterfalls, fierce river rapids, caverns, and cliffs — these are not the types of geographical formations people typically anticipate in the south-central United States. However, such wonders and much more greet those arriving at the stunning Ozark Mountains found in Arkansas and Missouri.

This area is primarily recognized for the entertainment hotspot of Branson (which features Dolly Parton’s Stampede) and the Silver Dollar City theme park (home to a new Spring Exposition festival coming in 2025 — and don’t overlook the recently enhanced, immersive Fire in the Hole family roller coaster). Those attractions are certainly impressive, but they are merely the beginning.

One of the Ozarks’ best-kept treasures is the Johnny Morris Conservation Foundation, a privately held, entry-fee-based nature and historical preserve. A key attraction within is Dogwood Canyon Nature Park located in Lampe, Missouri. It boasts fishing spots, historic chapels and bridges, biking and hiking paths, alongside a tram tour that showcases free-roaming elk and bison herds.

In Arkansas, Eureka Springs serves as an eclectic retreat filled with enjoyable dining options and accommodations, emerging as a sanctuary for the LGBTQ community. Enjoy floating or fishing at Withow Spring State Park, located near the university town of Fayetteville. For a breathtaking drive, consider taking the Mount Magazine Scenic Byway. — FB

Marrakech, Essaouira, Fes, and even Casablanca…. While Morocco consistently ranks highly on many travelers’ lists, one destination that seldom appears is Rabat, the contemporary capital. However, all that is poised to change in 2025 with the launch of the new Four Seasons Hotel Rabat at Kasr al Bahr, which opened its doors in October 2024, along with the inauguration of the Royal Theater, designed by the late and distinguished architect Zaha Hadid.

Nationwide, the tourism sector is bouncing back from the catastrophic earthquake that struck the Atlas Mountains in September 2023. A 20% year-on-year increase in visitors to Morocco was recorded in 2024 (based on figures published in November), and 2025 is forecasted to be even more prosperous, with new flight routes including Los Angeles-Casablanca from Royal Air Maroc, and Newark-Marrakech from United Airlines. Waldorf Astoria is also entering the market — its Tangier location set to debut in 2025, marking its first venture into the country.

For sports enthusiasts, the Africa Cup of Nations soccer tournament is scheduled for December — while specific venues haven’t yet been disclosed, it will certainly be a moment of pride for Morocco, whose national squad was the first African team to reach the semifinals of the FIFA World Cup in 2022. Local tour operators like Inclusive Morocco can assist you in discovering the finest experiences the country has to offer. — JB

There are few remaining spots in Europe that still evoke that feeling of being undiscovered, yet Romania
“`comes close. That’s a blessing in these times of overtourism — for here’s a nation that possesses everything, from the seaside resorts of the Black Sea to the stunning beauty of the Carpathian Mountains, and is reportedly striving to boost visitor numbers in a sustainable manner.

Indeed, there’s the Dracula lore at Bran Castle, yet for other gothic medieval delights in broader Transylvania and beyond, consider visiting Timișoara, Cluj Napoca, Sibiu, Brasov, and Sebes. The capital Bucharest boasts an enchanting Old Town, which is now somewhat saturated with tourist bars and eateries, but the city’s contemporary history continues to be a significant attraction. The astonishing extravagance of communist-era leader Nicolae Ceaușescu’s opulent former residence and his enormous Palace of the Parliament (the heaviest building on the globe) are worthy of a visit.

They stand in stark contrast to the severe adversities he imposed on the nation’s populace, as documented in the small but vital Museum of Communism. A more serene past can still be discovered in the Romanian countryside. There’s likely no finer way to experience this than the newly inaugurated Via Transilvanica, an 870-mile (1,400-kilometer) hiking path through pastoral scenery and villages seemingly suspended in time. — BN

If you’ve explored the major urban areas (Mexico City, Guadalajara), the resorts (Cabo, Cozumel), and the expatriate hotspots (San Miguel de Allende, Lake Chapala), you might wish to experience a different kind of Mexico. That’s where San Francisco de Campeche comes into play.

The capital of Campeche state, this port city of approximately 250,000 is situated on the western side of the lush Yucatán Peninsula. Campeche is one of merely two states in Mexico with the US State Department’s highest safety classification, and the city occupies that ideal niche of having some tourism infrastructure while not being “discovered” yet.

Seafood aficionados will enjoy dishes such as pompano baked in foil, Pan de Cazón (Dogfish Bread), and various shrimp specialties that showcase a Caribbean influence. Architecture and history buffs will be thrilled — the old fortified Historic Fortified Town is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Bastions (fortified structures) and colonial churches abound. Outdoors, the beaches of nearby Sihoplaya and Seybaplaya alongside the cenotes (freshwater sinkholes) provide entertaining aquatic experiences. And don’t overlook the Mayan ruins and tropical forests at Calakmul.

Navigating the city may turn out to be simpler in 2025 if the light rail system is inaugurated in April as anticipated. — FB

This English-speaking West African nation has a lot to provide for those daring enough to make the journey, even though reaching it isn’t straightforward. There are routes via Brussels and Casablanca, but the newcomer airline Air Sierra Leone has yet to initiate direct flights to London promised for late 2024.

Tourism remains in its nascent stages 20 years after civil conflict and a decade following a significant Ebola outbreak. This means a land unmarred by overcrowded tourism and still somewhat rugged. Beaches like those at the Turtle Islands, Bureh, and River Number Two boast pristine waters and white or golden sands. The capital, Freetown, features markets, museums, and, in the ruins of Bunce Island, a heartfelt homage to the victims of the slave trade who passed through. Inland rainforests provide opportunities for hiking and encounters with chimpanzees.

“Sierra Leone is undoubtedly one of the safest and most hospitable nations in Africa,” remarks travel blogger Helen Davies, also known as Helen in Wonderland, who has just returned from leading a tour in the nation. “The people here are simply wonderful, with a spirit that’s warm, welcoming, and utterly contagious. The country is rugged, raw, and unapologetically authentic, and that’s precisely what makes it the ideal location for an adventurous traveler.” — BN

Strolling through the city of Stockholm, visitors will be captivated by the crisp air, expansive blue skies, and ever-present scenic waters — the capital of Sweden consists of 14 islands, linked via ferries and bridges.

This island-centric metropolis is also a segment of the broader Stockholm outer archipelago, comprising approximately 30,000 islands. Guests in downtown Stockholm can effortlessly board a quick ferry to neighboring islands such as Fjäderholmarna, where remarkably preserved historical buildings and additional waterfront views await.

However, for those who seek excitement, the city of Stockholm has recently unveiled a new 270-kilometer hiking trail that weaves through the Stockholm outer archipelago. An associated website assists adventurers in planning their routes.

Back in the downtown area, tourists can delve deeper into Sweden’s nautical heritage at the Vasa museum, home to a conserved 17th-century shipwreck. Meanwhile, the outdoor Skansen museum provides knowledge about Sweden’s architectural and cultural evolution, while the ABBA Museum promises interactive, music-themed enjoyment.

After a day of trekking or exploring, remember to indulge in the Swedish custom of fika (which means taking a pause to enjoy a warm drink and a pastry) and savor the cinnamon rolls at the bustling Café Saturnus or the award-winning Robin Delselius Bageri. — FS

Taupō, New Zealand

New Zealand’s South Island often receives more focus concerning natural splendor. However, tourists venturing to the North Island in pursuit of picturesque landscapes need not look beyond Taupō.

One must see the lake’s Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings, which feature a 14-meter bas-relief crafted by renowned artist Matahi Brightwell, portraying the visage of his ancestor, Ngatoroirangi.

Merely a few kilometers from Taupō lies Huka Falls, reputed to produce enough energy to fill an Olympic-sized pool in a mere 11 seconds.

When it comes to dining, the local gastronomic scene is receiving heightened acclaim — it recently concluded its first Treats of Taupō food festival. Hence, we almost feel guilty sharing this interesting tidbit: Taupō is home to what might be the world’s most unique McDonald’s, where patrons can savor their Big Macs while seated within a retired WWII-era Douglas DC-3 aircraft.

Where should one stay? Taupō’s historic Huka Lodge reached its centenary in 2024 and has just undergone renovations. Set to reopen in March 2025, this opulent establishment, which began as a fishing camp along the banks of the Waikato River, consists of only 20 suites and two cottages. — KC

Vancouver Island, Canada

Vibrant, unspoiled surroundings and bursts of carefully tended flora are merely a few of Vancouver Island’s inherent attractions.

The island, stretching 285 miles long, is situated in the Pacific approximately 60 miles west of Vancouver, housing the rugged Pacific Rim National Park Reserve along its western coastline. Seasoned trekkers may challenge the park’s West Coast Trail. Alternatively, for those seeking more amenity options further north in the park’s Long Beach Unit, lodges can be found along the coast between the easygoing towns of Ucluelet and Tofino. These spots serve as gateways for wildlife adventures, rainforest walks, or braving the infamous surf.

A secluded lodge, a floating resort that was previously known as the Tofino Wilderness Resort on Quait Bay north of the town, was acquired in 2022 by the Ahousaht First Nation. It is anticipated to reopen in June 2025 under a new identity, featuring newly decorated guest quarters and communal areas.

For those inclined towards spa experiences, the Kingfisher Pacific Resort & Spa in Courtenay on the island’s eastern shore is unveiling a six-cave experience, featuring distinct therapies within each, paired with visuals to enrich the experience.

Butchart Gardens presents sensory delight through its floral beauty. The 55-acre marvel located near BC’s provincial capital of Victoria on the southern coast features a captivating sunken garden, a rose garden, and other displays, topped off with an exquisite afternoon tea that adds sweet and savory options to the visual delight. — MH

Wildflowers, lush hills, trees ablaze with crimson, tangerine, and yellow foliage, alongside blankets of immaculate snow. Vermont’s four-season rail trails offer visitors the opportunity to experience the state’s picture-perfect landscapes year-round.

Hiking, biking, horseback riding, snowshoeing, and Nordic skiing are all activities available along the state’s railway-transformed pedestrian routes, where non-motorized traffic navigates compacted stone paths that interconnect towns and villages across the state. During winter, snowmobiles are also permitted.

The state’s latest pathway, the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail, encountered a rocky beginning. Catastrophic flooding in July 2023 inflicted an estimated $11 million in damage to the $31 million trail, postponing its grand opening by one year. It sustained additional damage in flooding again in July 2024, but the 93-mile path is nearly completely accessible — apart from a few miles near the southern edge and one short diversion. The longest rail trail in New England, the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail extends from Swanton in the northwestern part of the state to St. Johnsbury in the Northeast Kingdom.

Numerous locations to pause exist along the route — perhaps for a drink or snack in Morristown, which boasts a variety of breweries, eateries, and shops ready for exploration, or to glimpse the 150-year-old railway station in Danville. — MH