Discover the Top 25 Must-Visit Destinations for Your 2025 Travel Adventures!

From bubblegum-hued lakes in Australia to a solar-powered safari lodge in Botswana, these are the premier locations of BBC journalists this year.

Exploration has the ability to unite, motivate, and even change us. Gazing over the brink of a thundering waterfall in Newfoundland and climbing jagged spires in the Italian Dolomites uncovers the magnificence of our world. However, while travel ought to be a positive force, the last year has shown that it can also overwhelm and potentially damage the places we cherish. Consequently, numerous locations are now implementing new regulations as they confront the adverse impacts of overtourism.  

In the BBC’s first guide to the premier locations for travel this year, our aim was to showcase the places experiencing the contrary phenomenon. Each of these 25 destinations is not only open to visitors and providing extraordinary travel experiences but also utilizing tourism to benefit local communities, safeguard the environment, or maintain their distinctive cultural legacy. We curated this list with contributions from BBC Travel journalists and several of the globe’s foremost sustainable travel experts, including the United Nations World Tourism Organization, Sustainable Travel International, and the World Travel & Tourism Council.    

As tourism in multiple areas surpasses pre-pandemic figures, and extreme weather alongside climate change exposes the delicate transience of numerous must-visit destinations, traveling mindfully signifies contemplating how your journey can contribute to a greater cause.  

From hiking through an otherworldly landscape in Bolivia to luxurious camping in the Arctic on the world’s largest island, your next remarkable adventure is on the horizon.

Have you ever wished to swim alongside sperm whales? Dominica now provides the opportunity to do so in an ethical and sustainable manner as part of the Caribbean island’s pioneering dedication to marine preservation and regenerative tourism. This island nation has recently created the world’s first sperm whale sanctuary, a safeguarded marine zone intended to protect its resident behemoths. Limited permits for whale swims guarantee closer, respectful interactions, offering visitors a unique experience to share the waters with these majestic cetaceans while aiding research and generating sustainable tourism prospects for local inhabitants.

New developments for 2025 include enhanced infrastructure and systems to accommodate visitors, featuring digital immigration forms for convenient arrivals and a cable car system transporting passengers from Roseau Valley up to Boiling Lake, one of the planet’s largest thermal springs. Reaching the island has never been simpler: in addition to current American Airlines flights from Miami, United Airlines is launching direct flights from Newark as of 15 February. Several new hotels are set to debut in 2025 (adding nearly 500 rooms with a 25% increasein stock), featuring the six-star Hilton Tranquility Beach Resort and Spa located in Salisbury. Alternatively, opt for a reliable classic like Secret Bay, a luxurious eco-resort that consistently ranks high on sustainability lists.

Dominica is also the residence of Project CETI, a pioneering global initiative aiming to translate whale communication, clicks and codas, spearheaded by National Geographic Explorer David Gruber. In other regions, guests may explore concealed gorges, majestic waterfalls and delight in local dishes at distinctive dining spots, such as the farm-to-table Lacou. Dominica is more than just a location – it’s a movement supporting an emerging model of eco-tourism that harmonizes biodiversity preservation with economic advancement, ensuring your journey contributes to safeguarding this natural haven for future generations. – Pier Nirandara

Home to one of Yayoi Kusama’s signature yellow, polka-dotted Pumpkin sculptures, the Japanese island of Naoshima has emerged as an essential destination for aficionados of modern art and architecture. Previously recognized (if at all) for its highly polluting copper smelting industry, the island’s metamorphosis is attributed to Benesse Art Site Naoshima, which has facilitated the creation of prominent museums and site-specific artworks in the picturesque (and significantly population-declining) Seto Inland Sea, situated between Japan’s primary island of Honshu and Shikoku.     

Spring 2025 marks the debut of the Naoshima New Museum of Art, crafted by Tadao Ando, the acclaimed architect behind nine other endeavors on the island. This fresh platform for works by Asian artists will be a major attraction of this year’s Setouchi Triennale, featuring events and art unveilings distributed across 17 islands and coastal areas of the Seto Inland Sea. Set over 100 days, and divided between spring, summer, and autumn to enable visitors to experience the region through various seasons, this represents the largest iteration of the Triennale since its inception in 2010. The festival and initiatives of Benesse Art Site Naoshima have been pivotal in transforming not just Naoshima’s fortunes, but also reviving the surrounding islands of Teshima and Inujima.   

Make reservations in advance to visit Rei Naito and Ryue Nishizawa’s Teshima Art Museum, a unique blend of art, architecture, and nature; while in Inujima, travelers will be astonished by the remnants of a historical copper refinery transformed into an epic-scale art installation. Noteworthy accommodations include Roka, a modern-style ryokan on Naoshima, and the tastefully minimalist Espoir Inn on Teshima. – Simon Richmond  

Italy, a timeless favorite, hardly requires additional publicity – especially in a year when its highly crowded capital, Rome, will be further inundated due to the 2025 Jubilee. However, if Italy remains on your travel list for 2025, you might want to consider diverting northwards to the Dolomite Mountains.

To Italians, the ruggedly picturesque Dolomites embody family enjoyment and upscale vacations. The stunning sawtooth limestone cliffs extend across the regions of Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, and Friuli-Venezia Giulia, drawing numerous vacationing Italians annually to their charming villages; unmatched “white week” skiing; adventurous trekking; and world-renowned, hearty Alpine cuisine. This classic Italian retreat is frequently overlooked by international tourists – but that narrative is about to shift.

The “Queen of the Dolomites”, Cortina d’Ampezzo, has been designated to co-host the 2026 Winter Olympics. Preparations, taking place throughout 2025, include a comprehensive series of infrastructure enhancements within the region – all amidst a pre-Olympic atmosphere. Visitors can anticipate expanded ski lift facilities in the Dolomiti Superski area, where the towns of Alta Badia and Val Gardena will introduce modernized lifts and improved connections to local public transport. New and refurbished cable cars, lifts, and gondolas will also appear across the towns of the regions. 

However, the Dolomites remain an exhilarating destination throughout the year; visit during spring, summer, and autumn to experience exceptional pathways, such as the 2024’s new Cammino Retico (The Rhaetian Way); a 170km, week-long trail linking secluded villages between the Veneto and Trentino regions. For sheer relaxation, the opulent Aman Rosa Alpina hotel is set for grand reopening in 2025. This hotel will now feature 51 guest rooms and suites, two presidential suites, and the exclusive Chalet Zeno. Visit now, prior to the influx of visitors. – Eva Sandoval

There exists no place on Earth quite like Greenland. Covering over two million square kilometers, the world’s largest island sustains a population of under 57,000. Enveloped by an immense ice cap and awe-inspiring mountains, its untouched wilderness and grand fjords are not merely a sought-after geopolitical territory; they promise adventures of a lifetime.

Stunning hiking
“`and enchanting whale observation during summer, along with classic dog sledding and the enchanting aurora during winter, render Greenland a must-visit location. Nevertheless, it has been challenging, costly, and time-intensive to access – until now.

Thanks to the inauguration of a new international airport in the capital city of Nuuk, with two more set to open in 2026, traveling to Greenland has never been this straightforward. The nation is inviting conscious adventure explorers who appreciate discovering while also honoring its breathtaking nature and distinct Inuit heritage. Greenland has embraced a commitment “towards improved tourism” and fresh legislation aims to direct tourism revenue towards benefitting local populations.

A contemporary town boasting a historic harbor, educational museums, and remarkable art galleries, Nuuk also serves as a departure point for trekking, fishing, and glamping excursions and acts as an entrance for exploring a stunning Arctic landscape. Further north in Ilulissat, tourists can uncover the breathtaking icebergs of Disko Bay and the dramatic Unesco-recognized Icefjord. In the southern region, once inhabited by Vikings, there are picturesque fjords and beautiful green hills sprinkled with sheep farms. – Adrienne Murray Nielsen

Though only one-sixth the area of England and considerably less frequented than its more renowned UK peers, Wales brims with magnificent national parks, breathtaking medieval fortresses, and virtually no crowds – which enhances its charm. The upcoming year provides travelers with an extra motive to explore one of Europe’s most promising destinations: Wales is commemorating 2025 as the Year of Croeso (“Welcome”). This year-long celebration highlights Welsh culture, language, and attractions while encouraging visitors to “Experience the hwyl” – an untranslatable Welsh term that signifies a profound state of happiness derived from being completely present in the moment.

In recent times, Wales has established itself as a leader in sustainable, culturally-centered travel. Tourism has significantly contributed to the revitalization of the Welsh language, and the nation is currently engaged in a multi-year £5 billion initiative utilizing tourism revenues to enhance various destinations’ environmental sustainability. As part of its Year of Croeso, Wales is investing in mobility bicycles to enable more adventure enthusiasts to discover its wild side. Additionally, Wales features the Wales Coast Path, the sole hiking trail globally that spans the entire length of a country’s coastline. – Eliot Stein

Labrador, the continental segment of Newfoundland and Labrador located in eastern Canada, is an expansive, rugged territory celebrated for its breezy coastal villages, towering ice formations, subarctic woodlands, and enormous cascades – all rooted in over 9,000 years of human heritage. Anticipated for 2025, the finishing touches on the final segment of the 1,200km Trans-Labrador Highway – a project that required nearly 25 years and $1bn to complete – will enhance this secluded 294,330 sq km expanse into a more reachable locale.

The newly developed circular route (dubbed Expedition 51) links Labrador with five provinces across Canada while providing detours into the US and even France (via St Pierre and Miquelon). To promote sustainable tourism and honor the cultural legacy in this previously secluded section of the north, the Canadian government has allocated $180m for Parks Canada locations in Western Newfoundland and Labrador. By 2025, Red Bay National Historic Site, a Unesco World Heritage Site and historic Basque whaling station, will unveil a new interactive boardwalk and visitor center; L’Anse aux Meadows, recognized for being the first Norse settlement in North America, is amplifying its ecological safeguards and enhancing visitor amenities; while Gros Morne National Park will roll out new interpretive displays showcasing the park’s striking geology, wildlife, and landscapes. – Diane Selkirk 

Tucson has plenty to commemorate in 2025. This year signifies the 10th anniversary of its recognition as the first city in the US to attain a Unesco City of Gastronomy status, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the city’s establishment. Initially part of Mexico, the region currently known as Tucson will honor its distinctive multi-national legacy and acknowledge the rich Native American traditions that make it remarkable, during a complimentary event on 23 August showcasing traditional Mexican music and dance held at the Presidio San Agustin del Tucson. Throughout the year, visitors can navigate Tucson’s extensive desert hiking paths and explore significant structures – such as the 250-year-old San Xavier del Bac, often referred to as the “White Dove of the Desert”. This conservation effort illustrates why the city is poised to receive a Sustainability Index Award from the Global Destination Sustainability Movement (GDS) this year. 

While the history of the building is noteworthy, the nearby gardens reveal an even deeper narrative: they comprise the oldest continuously farmed soil in the US. Four millennia ago, the ancestors of the Tohono O’odham cultivated squashes, beans, and corn on this ground. Over the centuries, blending with Mexican and other Indigenous tastes, many of these ancient herbs and crops remain key ingredients in kitchens throughout the city. Diners have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the city’s distinct culinary scene at one of its city-of-gastronomy-certified eateries or at the Heirloom Farmers Markets, which routinely showcase unique local produce such as chiltepin chilis, edible cacti known as nopales, and prickly pear. – Lynn Brown

Often referred to as the most secluded major city in the world, Perth – along with the region of Western Australia (WA) – has historically been overshadowed by eastern cities like Melbourne and Sydney. Nevertheless, with Australia’s sole non-stop flights to Europe, Perth is establishing itself as the western entry point to Australia and a prominent global aviation center, with a $5 billion renovation of Perth Airport aimed at improving travel experiences. Moreover, with new routes to Asia, WA is set to transform into an essential travel destination by 2025.

Yet, it is not solely about accessibility; it involves the experiences awaiting visitors. Beyond the newly trendy Perth and its beautiful Swan Valley Wine Region, WA’s expansive terrains stretch over 2.5 million square kilometers, including 12,500 kilometers of unspoiled coastline, bubblegum-pink lakes, horizontal waterfalls, towering karri woodlands, vibrant wildflowers, wineries, and wildlife adventures like swimming with whale sharks and taking selfies with quokkas, the “happiest animal in the world“. Eco-conscious road trippers can traverse it all via the new 6,600km Electric Vehicle Highway, recognized as the longest EV charging network globally.

From its foggy mountaintop tea gardens and wandering wild elephants to its historic temples and crashing waves, Sri Lanka is a nation that fulfills many desires. In April 2022, the prior prime minister proclaimed Sri Lanka’s insolvency, but a new president intends to revitalize the nation’s fortunes after facing challenges from a pandemic and internal discord.

The persevering island nation is aiming to recover through tourism. The city of Kandy is set to inaugurate its initial seven-star hotel, Aviyana Private Chalets, while Aarunya Nature Resort is introducing a new family villa featuring an oculus for stargazing. A $1bn megaresort is launching in Colombo, along with the debut of Sri Lanka’s new airline
“`Air Ceilão, which will operate routes extending to Europe and Australia. The country has also recently introduced the Good Travel Seal initiative, which honors local enterprises that have embraced eco-friendly practices. 

Travelers in search of a refreshing retreat can hop on a legendary train journey into the mountainous landscape or head to Colombo and Galle to uncover a new wave of mixologists giving a modern twist to arrack, a drink dating back to the 5th century. The island has also unveiled the 300km Pekoe Trail, guiding hikers through tea estates and rustic villages nestled in the Central Highlands. For those eager to explore more territory, an innovative startup enables visitors to self-drive a tuk tuk around the island, with funds going straight to the local owner. – Claire Turrell

Following years of US management over the Panama Canal, control was transferred to Panama at the conclusion of 1999 in a treaty executed by the late President Jimmy Carter. This year signifies the 25th anniversary of Panama’s autonomy over its famed waterway, and amid President-elect Donald Trump’s indications of the potential use of military action to reclaim it, a fresh series of permanent displays at the landmark’s Museo del Canal that underscore its journey to Panamanian governance feels particularly relevant. 

However, there’s much more to explore in this nation of extensive jungles, picturesque islands, and mountainous terrain beyond the canal. In 2024, the Meaningful Travel Map to Panama was launched in collaboration with the non-profit Tourism Cares to simplify the process for tourists to discover locally guided travel experiences throughout the nation. After embarking on a Localinpty walking tour exploring Panama City’s Casco Antiguo and El Chorrillo neighborhoods, make your way southwest to the La Pintada district, where artisans intricately weave fibers to create traditional Panama hats by hand – a UNESCO-recognized craft known as sombrero pintao. In El Valle de Anton (recognized as one of the top community tourism destinations by UN Tourism in 2024) take an invigorating hike through a lush cloud forest on the Cerro Gaital Lookout Trail where, on a clear day, you can behold both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea from the peak. This recently opened trail is part of Panama’s broader 1,000 km of Trails initiative, designed to promote sustainable tourism in rural areas while connecting hikers with Panama’s remarkable biodiversity. – Kathleen Rellihan

Evita las multitudes realizando un viaje en carretera a través de las Montañas del Rif en la menos visitada región norte de Marruecos. La expansión planificada 2025-2027 de la red de Ferrocarril de Alta Velocidad de Marruecos (HSR) creará una gran cantidad de nuevas líneas de tren, incluida una conexión de Rabat a la antigua ciudad amurallada de 1,300 años de antigüedad de Fez; hogar de una medina declarada Patrimonio de la Humanidad por la Unesco y anfitriona de varios juegos en la Copa Africana de Naciones 2025. Desde Fez, son 65 km en coche hacia el norte hasta Moulay Idriss, un antiguo pueblo en la cima de una colina una vez cerrado a no musulmanes. Pasa por olivares y almendros, así como por aldeas montañesas para una parada en Ouezzane – un centro de sufismo – luego continúa hacia el norte hasta el Parque Nacional Talassemtane para caminar por bosques de cedros, escalar picos rocosos de color rojo y sumergirte en pozas naturales. Más al norte se encuentra la localidad de Chefchaouen, conocida como la “Perla Azul” por sus edificios y calles pintadas de azul. Finalmente, navega a lo largo de la costa norte de Marruecos, relajándote en tranquilas aldeas pesqueras mediterráneas como El Jebha y las casas coloniales españolas encaladas de Tetuán. – Alicia Erickson

La diversidad de ofrecimientos refleja la asombrosa variedad de una ciudad cuyos enclaves históricos como Pequeña Alemania – donde los comerciantes de lana teutónicos del siglo XIX construyeron una serie de almacenes neoclásicos – son complementados por un paisaje de dramáticos páramos que albergan una extraordinaria caminata sonora inmersiva al aire libre que mezcla música clásica contemporánea con un sendero escultórico. También se percibe una energía especial por parte de los residentes locales que representan diversos orígenes (y juventud – un cuarto son menores de 20 años).

Las históricas calles de Bradford y su entorno rural accidentado ayudaron a que la ciudad se convirtiera en la primera Ciudad de Cine de la Unesco de Gran Bretaña (un galardón que comparten lugares tan diversos como Roma, Sídney y Busán) – un escenario para éxitos cinematográficos que incluyen series de la BBC como Peaky Blinders y Gentleman Jack, así como películas clásicas como Los Niños del Ferrocarril y Cumbres borrascosas. 

Y este año, incluso hay un proyecto de recetario interactivo, que celebra recetas de comunidades locales y demuestra que en 2025, Bradford es realmente un destino para satisfacer todos los gustos. – Norman Miller

With some of the planet’s most awe-inspiring desert sceneries and the historic capital of one of the most enigmatic cultures in history, Jordan perpetually inspires amazement. However, a deeper examination reveals that the nation has been gradually enhancing its image as the Middle East’s prime destination for outdoor adventure enthusiasts. 

In 2023, an exceptional new 10-day hiking route stretching 120 kilometers called the Wadi Rum Trail was inaugurated, traversing the rust-colored cliffs of Jordan’s famed Wadi Rum, echoing the surreal environments showcased in movies like Star Wars, Dune, and The Martian. Typically, travelers have hurried through this desert via 4×4 excursions, but this community-driven tourism initiative encourages a more relaxed and sustainable style of travel that safeguards the fragile ecosystem of the desert while also honoring the rich cultural legacy of the local Bedouin people. 

Additionally, this state, comparable in size to Maine, is home to 33 safeguarded terrestrial and marine environments. Visitors to the Wadi Mujib Biosphere Reserve (the lowest nature reserve worldwide at 410 meters beneath sea level) can seek out the elusive desert-dwelling Nubian ibex while climbing, swimming, and sliding through a sandstone canyon to witness a spectacular waterfall. The Dana Biosphere Reserve (the largest in Jordan) hosts 180 species of birds and 25 species of endangered mammals. The vibrant coral reefs of the Aqaba Marine Reserve, which secured a spot on the IUCN Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas in January 2025, sustain over 500 fish species and a burgeoning scuba diving community. – Florence Craig

For centuries, this once-isolated kingdom nestled within the Himalayas began allowing visitors in 1974. Since then, it has become a global authority in sustainability: it is recognized as the world’s first carbon-negative nation, with over 60% of its territory preserved as forests and it prioritizes Gross National Happiness over GDP.   

The Haa Valley, a pristine wooded area along Bhutan’s western border with Tibet, has remained one of the country’s best-kept secrets: a culturally unique region unaffected by mass tourism. This hidden gem of the Thunder Dragon Kingdom was the final area to welcome international guests in 2002, and presently, less than 2% of foreign travelers venture there, despite its proximity to Paro International Airport. It is now beginning to step into the light, striving for a balance between conservation and strategic development to attract more visitors. 

Visitors can appreciate Haa’s untamed allure by traversing the newly refurbished 400km Trans Bhutan Trail; the newly introduced 11km Haa Panorama Trail (reviving an ancient pathway); and the two-day Joy Bay Tsho Trek, which meanders through fields, canopy-covered forests, and bamboo thickets connecting the villages of Mochu and Youkha.

Haa’s dedication to sustainable tourism signifies that visitors will discover locally managed homestays (and a few local hotels) offering glimpses into centuries-old pastoral life. Additionally, two unique, low-impact lodgings have recently launched: the community-managed Katsho Eco Camp, constructed along the Haa Panorama Trail by guides and chefs who were laid off during the pandemic, and the opulent Sangwa Camp. At these locations, guests experience local customs, such as Bon rituals and unique opportunities like breakfast within Bhutan’s solitary strict nature reserve, an extensively safeguarded biodiversity haven home to rare creatures like the red panda and snow leopard.

With Bhutan’s Sustainable Daily Fee reduced by half until 2027 (now $100), this once-remote paradise is now more reachable while remaining firmly dedicated to low-impact tourism. – Erin Levi

More than a year since a series of horrendous wildfires ravaged Maui, the entirety of the state is witnessing a significant decline in tourists. As families and local enterprises continue to rebuild, they’re requesting travelers to return, but to do so responsibly. 

Uzbekistan boasts one of the youngest demographics globally – with over 60% aged under 30. Surrounded by a multitude of young individuals on Tashkent’s metros, which also serve as art galleries adorned with Soviet-era mosaics, you can observe a new generation emerging. As the nation works to uphold its distinctive traditions and cultures, it is channeling investments into tourism with new accommodations, train services, domestic flights, and cultural attractions to enhance its economy, retain its youth, and draw more tourists.

As of May 2024, travelers from over 90 nations (including the UK, Canada, and Australia) can enter Uzbekistan visa-free. The president has mentioned plans to establish a Global Green Tourism Startup Lab to unite the country’s commitment to a green economy with travel. Furthermore, crossing into adjacent countries has also become more straightforward. The region’s first international
“`railway line, the Silk Road railway journey, inaugurated in November 2024, now links Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. – Kathleen Rellihan

Haida Gwaii, a collection of over 150 isles off the British Columbia shoreline, provides more than stunning vistas – it extends a deep bond with nature, traditions, and history. Secluded from the main landmass, the ecologically diverse islands host over 6,800 species, including native birds, mammals, and flora that have supported the Haida People for a minimum of 15,000 years.

What distinguishes Haida Gwaii as an exceptional locale in 2025 is the revolutionary Gaayhllxid/Gíihlagalgang “Rising Tide” Haida Title Lands Agreement. This new legislation heralds a significant shift in Indigenous rights across Canada, officially acknowledging the Council of the Haida Nation as the governing authority over the territory according to federal statutes. This evolution aims to rejuvenate Haida culture and enhance their ecological guardianship. 

Travelers can investigate long-neglected Haida settlements such as SG̱ang Gwaay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient burial totems and remnants of longhouses; and witness unique fauna including the Haida Gwaii black bear (known as taan in the native tongue) as well as seabirds like puffins and ancient murrelets. Upon arrival, visitors are introduced to Haida Laws, incorporating the notion of Gina ‘waadluxan gud ad kwaagid (“everything depends on everything else”), a principle that highlights our collective duty to nurture the planet. – Diane Selkirk

With mist-covered rainforests, verdant lakes, towering volcanoes, and one of the oldest and most charming cities in the Americas (UNESCO-listed Granada, which observed its 500th birthday in December 2024), the largest nation in Central America remains one of its least explored. This could change soon with the completion of the new Carretera Costanera: a $400m, 350km-long roadway connecting 53 beaches along the Pacific coastline, from the Gulf of Fonseca in the north to the azure waters of Playa El Naranjo in the south.

Scheduled for completion in 2025, this ambitious new infrastructure initiative will significantly simplify travel south from Nicaragua’s extensive capital, Managua, to the lush forests and premier surfing locations of San Juan del Sur and Popoyo along the nation’s 50km-long Emerald Coast – a region that has attracted savvy backpackers for many years. More crucially, the Costanera is designed to inject fresh economic vigor into the country, which is one of the most impoverished in the Western hemisphere and regards its expanding tourism industry as fundamental to its economic enhancement. 

Following a lesson in riding waves at a locally-owned surf camp and staying in a treehouse nestled within a rainforest, continue your journey to the Refugio de Vida Silvestre La Flor at the southern end of the highway, where countless endangered olive ridley and leatherback turtles lay their eggs from September to October, offering a unique and unforgettable experience. – Eliot Stein

Although encircled on all fronts by the UK – Northern Ireland to the west, Scotland to the north, England to the east and Wales to the south – this cliff-bordered isle is not actually a member of the Commonwealth. Instead, the self-governing island is governed by the world’s oldest continuously functioning parliament, the Tynwald, and is dedicated to maintaining its unique identity and fostering a sustainable tourism model.

Rich in ancient heritage sites, including Cashtal yn Ard (“Castle of the Height”, recognized as the largest Neolithic burial site in the British Isles) and Castle Rushen (among the most intact medieval buildings in Europe), the island, home to 85,000 residents, is notably forward-looking. In 2016 it achieved recognition as a Unesco Biosphere (the only self-governing region whose entire land and marine territory holds this designation) for its dedication to ecological conservation and cultural legacy. This year, witness the island’s stunning indigenous bird species at the newly opened Manx Birdlife Point of Ayre National Reserve, which welcomed visitors in July 2024. Upcoming in 2025 is the 175th anniversary of Okell’s Brewery, so partake in tasting tours honoring this iconic Manx brew throughout the year.

In addition to acquiring a few phrases in Manx Gaelic (the island’s traditional language) and getting acquainted with the Manx pound (the island’s distinct currency), one of the finest approaches to appreciate this exceptional British Crown Dependency is to traverse it on foot. By taking advantage of the isle’s numerouswalking events, hikers can encounter rolling English pastures, fog-laden Irish hills, and rugged Welsh shorelines – alongside dramatic peaks reminiscent of the Scottish Highlands at the Isle’s highest point, Snaefell mountain. On a clear day, walkers can pivot at its wind-swept summit to view each nation within the UK and Ireland. – Lynn Brown

Pakistan stands as one of the most densely inhabited countries in the world, yet it remains an unexpected gem for explorers. This scenario may soon evolve, as the nation aspires to attract eco-conscious travellers through a variety of sustainable tourism projects and new eco-friendly initiatives to explore its stunning northern areas, which are home to five of the Earth’s 14 summits exceeding 8,000m – including K2, the second tallest peak globally. 

Salam Pakistan (the inaugural national tourism initiative of Pakistan, launched in 2023) enables tourists to easily secure e-visas and make reservations through an online platform, which includes the sought-after mountaineering and trekking visa. A simple look at the list of mountain summits and trekking routes demonstrates the extent of unparalleled adventure opportunities available in Pakistan. 

However, Pakistan encompasses much more than breathtaking mountain paths. The picturesque Gilgit-Baltistan region – referred to as “heaven’s gate” – is abundant with verdant valleys, crystal-clear lakes, and icy waterfalls. Nestled among hiking trails are the Hunza Valley’s aromatic cherry blossoms and apricot groves, as well as the undulating, Unesco-listed Deosai plains and Shangri-La-like reflective lakes. Journey toward the Pakistan-China frontier to encounter the Khunjerab Pass, which is set to be operational year-round starting in 2025. – Aysha Imtiaz

Situated in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean approximately 1,500km west of Lisbon, this nine-island Portuguese archipelago ranks among Europe’s most secluded getaways and is renowned for its steaming natural geothermal springs, vibrant-hued lakes, and brilliant lava tubes. The Azores already boast some of the continent’s most dramatic black-sand beaches and top whale-watching opportunities, but the islands can now claim yet another exceptional title: Europe’s biggest marine protected area.

Following groundbreaking legislation approved in October 2024, the newly established Marine Protected Area of the Azores will stretch over 287,000 sq km (an area larger than all of Great Britain) and will safeguard deep-sea corals, sharks, and the 28 whale and dolphin species found in this region. Ensuring the long-term vitality and biodiversity of these coral reefs will greatly benefit travellers keen to engage in whale-watching and environmentally sustainable marine research adventures in the future. 

In other places, a beautiful drive from the capital of Ponta Delgada, Furnas Valley features two active volcanoes. Take some time to explore a variety of hot springs throughout the effervescent geothermal valley, stroll through thriving botanical gardens, or relish a peaceful walk in Terra Nostra Park, arguably among the most stunning parks in Europe. Established in 1775, the namesake Terra Nostra Garden Hotel is a genuine green sanctuary offering guests round-the-clock access to its recently upgraded thermal pools and jacuzzis starting January 2025. Ensure you try the cozido das Furnas – a traditional meat stew cooked underground and simmered using the natural heat of volcanic hot springs. Nearby, enjoy a taste of purple volcanic tea at Chalet da Tia Mercês, or plan a trip to the family-operated Gorreana Tea Factory, the oldest (and sole) tea plantation in Europe. – Michelle Gross

Kansas City, Missouri is positioning 2025 as its transformative year. Formerly referred to as “Paris of the Plains,” the city is actively showcasing its vibrant arts scene and its reputation as one of North America’s barbeque epicenters, while also initiating an urban rejuvenation strategy featuring new museums, entertainment sectors, and accommodations.

Central to this rebranding is the Museum of BBQ, the first museum in the world dedicated to the craft of smoked meat. Set to be launched at the Crown Center shopping area in spring 2025, this engaging experience will explore Kansas City’s rich barbeque heritage, guiding guests through interactive displays culminating in a gift shop stocked with various BBQ merchandise.  

The Berkley Riverfront is also set to witness an influx of new dining options, retail outlets, and apartment complexes as development progresses (including a $150m Margaritaville Hotel, the region’s first).

In addition, the Kansas City International Airport is undergoing extensive renovations slated for completion in 2025; the $1.5bn expansion will replace obsolete terminals and enhance passenger flow. This year will also bring enhancements to the KC Streetcar; a 3.5-mile extension on Main Street expected to launch this summer will make several of the city’s premier attractions more easily accessible, including the Union Hill shopping area and the National WWI Museum and Memorial – which houses the world’s most extensive collection of World War One artifacts and documents. Additionally, when the Rock Island Bridge reopens in spring 2025, it will serve as the foundation for a new entertainment district elevated 40ft above a river. – Eva Sandoval

Even if you’ve previously stargazed at the otherworldly Uyuni salt flats (the globe’s largest) and traveled awestruck around the hilly capital of La Paz (the globe’s highest), Bolivia merits a visit in 2025. This August commemorates the nation’s 200th anniversary, and it is celebrating with campaigns and attractions spanning the year across the capitals of its nine regions.  

Join from 24 February to 5 March for the Oruro Carnival, featuring a multi-day folk-dance procession and has attained Unesco Heritage recognition for its oral tradition preservation. While in Potosí, enjoy a bicentennial singani (Bolivia’s version of Peru’s pisco). This potent liquor, now a mark of national pride, is believed to have initiated winemaking in the area during the 1500s in what used to be a flourishing mining town – and Potosí still showcases colonial architecture as evidence. 

Bolivia possesses the largest proportion of Indigenous peoples in South America, with about two-thirds of the population directly descended from the region’s original residents. The Guaraní tribe is part of the populace in Bolivia’s most beautiful city, Chuquisaca (also known as Sucre), where the independence declaration was signed in 1825; don’t miss the Museo de Arte Indígena for an intimate glimpse into the ancient weaving traditions of the country. The Aymara people of the altiplano invite tourists to the Isla del Sol (an isle in the heart of Lake Titicaca) whose lunar landscape offers a remarkable day-long hike. Additionally, a fresh network of community-based tourism brings attractions (and employment prospects) to these often-isolated communities, including the Chalalan Ecolodge in the Amazon’s Madidi National Park, where capybaras, cougars, and macaws reside. – Laura Norkin

Botswana has been recognized as Africa’s pioneer in sustainable safari tourism owing to its vast wildlife reserves and the government’s emphasis on high-income, low-impact ecotourism policies; a tactic that has historically involved admitting fewer visitors. However, as the nation embraces a new administration and proceeds to rebound from the Covid-19 outbreak, its tourism industry (and green reputation) stands to expand in 2025, fueled by a growing demand for eco-friendly and culturally rich travel experiences. In an effort to promote tourism and enhance the economy, Botswana has recently allowed visa-free access for travelers from 104 nations, including individuals from the US, UK, Germany, and Canada. Consequently, more adventurers can now appreciate Botswana’s scenic wonders, such as the “Elephant Capital of the World”, Chobe National Park, as well as the Unesco-recognized Okavango Delta; an extensive wetland located in the Kalahari Desert, which is one of the remaining sanctuaries for cheetahs and the black rhinoceros.

The Okavango Delta will also welcome several new establishments, including the 100% solar-powered Mbamba Camp in the delta’s lagoon-and-savannah-enriched northern areas, a high-end lodge that promises a blend of comfort and family-oriented wildlife encounters, set to debut in April 2025. Following in May 2025 is Monachira Camp, where visitors can engage in walking safaris, mokoro canoe rides, and armchair safaris while coming face toface with elephants, lions, and the Pel’s Fishing Owl.  

Commencing in April 2025, new Air Botswana routes will link Gaborone to Cape Town, simplifying the exploration of Botswana’s enchanting nature for travelers – sustainably. – Eva Sandoval

Visitors are encouraged to consult the Visit Oslo Responsibly guidelines and the Green Oslo Guide, which categorize the concept of sustainable tourism into four segments: planet, people, prosperity, and partnership. It is not uncommon for hotels in the downtown area to boast green roofs that produce food, minimize energy consumption, manage rainwater, and foster urban biodiversity. 

Travelers can ensure their visit positively influences locals and their environment by patronizing local enterprises such as the Norwegian Adventure Company, which provides “transformational and sustainable experiences” from its location in Oslo, including kayaking through glacial fjords and seeking out the Northern Lights. After a full day of discovering the stunning Nordic landscape, dine at one of the city’s numerous farm-to-table establishments, like the Michelin-starred Maaemo, which employs locally sourced organic ingredients. So, is it even a city? Discover in 2025. – Lynn Brown