“Popular! You’re gonna be popular!” Sure, maybe you’re a Wicked moviegoer belting those lyrics along with Ariana Grande’s Glinda in the back row of the theater. But we’re singing that same tune to the hottest destinations of 2025. The curtain’s up, and these travel spots are ready to take their turn in the spotlight. Destinations worthy of a standing ovation? Check. Hotels that steal the show? Absolutely. Whether you’re chasing the northern lights, scaling towering peaks or holding space for a historic coastal city where past and present collide, there’s a destination for every traveler looking to make their year one for the history books. So, without further ado, we present the 10 best places to travel in 2025. Places, everyone! Places! The spotlight’s on you—now take your pick and let the adventure begin.
Grenada
The tiny Caribbean island of Grenada is the only nation with a nutmeg on its flag—and for good reason. Along with its sister islands, Carriacou and Petite Martinique, it’s aptly nicknamed the Spice Isle. Some say stepping off the plane feels like entering a fragrant haven, with the air perfumed by cinnamon and cloves. It’s no surprise, then, that last year, Six Senses chose this paradise for Six Senses La Sagesse, marking the renowned wellness brand’s debut in the Caribbean. Its 56 suites and 15 villas (each with a private pool, of course) are set between two breathtaking beaches: L’Anse Pere and La Sagesse. The latter, a sandy crescent with shallow, warm waters embraced by verdant hills, is often considered one of the island’s finest. It’s the perfect place to relax after a visit to Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park—the world’s first underwater sculpture park—recently upgraded with 31 new pieces of art. After a landmark 2024, marked by the celebration of 50 years of independence, a visit to the lively capital St. George’s, with its colorful, boat-dotted harbor is a must. While here, dive into the longest infinity pool in the Caribbean at Silversands Grand Anse, a remarkable 100 meters long, with buttery soft sand and clear waters as its backdrop. Beyond the luxury resorts, endless adventures await—hike through Grand Etang’s rainforest or celebrate Spicemas, the Caribbean nation’s very own version of Carnival, held annually in August.
Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Pura Vida—in Costa Rica, that’s what life is all about. The country’s unofficial motto, meaning “pure life,” thrives in Guanacaste province, where the spirit of the phrase is alive and well. In fact, it’s home to the Nicoya Peninsula, one of the world’s renowned Blue Zones—regions where locals are known for their exceptionally long and healthy lives. While credit goes to a wholesome diet and habits, Guanacaste’s sun-drenched, 400-mile stretch of Pacific coastline, world-class adventure and that “pura vida” state of mind might have something to do with it, too. On the peninsula, visit Tamarindo—or “Tama” as it’s known among locals—a surf haven since the 1960s. Beyond the waves, the province is a bonafide ecotourism paradise—grab a front-row seat to national parks, marine reserves and wildlife retreats like the Wild Scarlet Macaw Reserve and Camaronal Sea Turtle Refuge from ultra-luxe Punta Islita, Autograph Collection. Further south, there’s Santa Teresa, oozing bohemian charm—“The new Tulum,” as Vogue once called it. And with Guanacaste quietly bordering Nicaragua to the north, the area’s appeal is only set to grow as luxury newcomer Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique prepares to debut on the secluded Playa Penca in the spring of 2025.
Charleston, South Carolina
In Charleston, Southern hospitality flows as freely as its sweet tea. Consistently ranked among the friendliest cities in the U.S., it’s one of the rare places where “charming” feels like an understatement. Explore the city’s historic district, including its most photographed spot, Rainbow Row—an iconic row of 13 pastel houses. Nearby, Emeline offers a modern boutique stay that nods to the Holy City’s golden past. From here, explore the open-air market or hop on a horse-drawn carriage right outside the door. For a taste of the city, savor local comforts like shrimp and grits or she-crab soup, or dive into the city’s acclaimed culinary scene at the Food & Wine Classic, returning November 14–16, 2025. One of America’s oldest cities, Charleston also embraces its complex history. The newly opened International African American Museum—a $120 million project two decades in the making—thoughtfully examines the region’s layered past. Just 20 minutes outside of downtown, the coast beckons. On the Isle of Palms, Wild Dunes Resort—Sweetgrass Inn and Boardwalk Inn—sits among dunes and lush greenery, showcasing just a fraction of South Carolina’s 2,876 miles of Atlantic coastline.
Maui, Hawaii
In August 2023, Maui, Hawaii’s second-largest island, faced devastating wildfires that deeply impacted its tight-knit community. Yet, the island’s indomitable spirit and unwavering aloha endured. While Lahaina remains closed going into 2025, Maui once again opens its doors, inviting travelers to reconnect with its culture, its people and the kuleana (responsibility) of a meaningful visit. In Wailea, Fairmont Kea Lani—fresh from an almost two-year-long renovation completed in 2024—debuted its new Pilina restaurant and offers a “Rooted in Aloha” program where guests can plant trees to aid the reforestation of Haleakalā National Park. For those looking for ways to give back in paradise, the Hawaii Tourism Authority lists a variety of voluntourism activities across the island. Many of Maui’s other top resorts have also undergone significant transformations, including Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. With over $350 million invested, the property now boasts refreshed guest rooms, the expansive Kilolani Spa—the largest in Hawaii—and will welcome the island’s first Nobu restaurant in summer 2025. From Kihei’s golden beaches to Kapalua’s dramatic coastlines, the Valley Isle extends a heartfelt message to the world: Mākaukau Maui—“Maui is ready.”
Geneva, Switzerland
Geneva might be known for peace and diplomacy, but in 2025, this serene city swaps quiet negotiations for fierce competition. July kicks off with the UEFA Women’s EURO at Stade de Genève, and in September, the inaugural Rolex Switzerland Sail Grand Prix sees high-speed catamarans racing across Lake Geneva’s jewel-toned waters. For an exclusive perch amidst the action, La Réserve Genève offers lakeside luxury with a twist—imagine gliding into the city aboard Venetian-style motoscafo boats. Prefer your elegance with a river view? Overlooking the Rhône, Mandarin Oriental, Geneva pairs its timeless façade with Swiss refinement and culinary excellence. From vibrant Mediterranean dishes to authentic Japanese cuisine, the dining is so exceptional you might momentarily forget the Swiss Alps lie just beyond. Dialing up Geneva’s charm, the United Nations’ Portail des Nations opens in summer 2025 at the historic Palais des Nations, inviting visitors to explore multilateralism through 3,500 square meters of interactive exhibits—all under the watchful flutter of the Alley of Flags. And if diplomacy leaves you craving something sweeter, grab a Choco Pass—a self-guided chocolate tour that’s basically a passport to praline paradise.
Osaka, Japan
It’s only fitting that Expo 2025, the world’s largest showcase of innovation and design, returns to Osaka—a city renowned for its dynamic energy and open-minded spirit. From April to October, Yumeshima, a human-made island, will welcome 28 million visitors eager to explore exhibitions on everything from sustainable fashion to AI-driven smart cities. Known as Tenka no Daidokoro (“the nation’s kitchen”), Osaka’s forward-thinking spirit extends to its culinary scene, where street vendors serve up takoyaki (fried octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes). The city’s kuidaore culture—eating until you’re broke—ensures no appetite goes unsatisfied. For something more refined, head to InterContinental Osaka’s Pierre, a 2024 Michelin-starred gem. After indulging, wander Dōtonbori, where neon lights and the Glico Running Man make it feel like stepping into a live-action video game. For a bird’s-eye view of it all, check into Conrad Osaka, perched above the action with views from 40 floors up. With an influx of visitors on the way, more luxury hotels are sprouting up, including Waldorf Astoria Osaka and Patina Osaka, just steps from Osaka Castle. And with Kansai International Airport’s sleek new Terminal 1 opening just in time for Expo, getting to this high-energy metropolis has never been easier.
Dolomites, Italy
If you’re looking to escape the crowds flocking to Rome for the Pope’s Jubilee year in 2025 and prefer your divine experiences with a side of fresh Alpine air, the Dolomites are calling—after all, even Popes and pontiffs sought refuge here. Just look to FORESTIS, an almost heaven-sent, above-the-clouds sanctuary. Once upon a time, it was a hideaway for the Vatican’s top officials. Nowadays, with a front-row seat to the jagged Geislergruppe, it stands as an architectural marvel at the heart of this mountain range in northern Italy, which earned UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2009, thanks to its 18 spectacular peaks. But these mountains don’t just deliver height (though Marmolada, the “Queen of the Dolomites,” certainly impresses, towering at 10,968 feet). They deliver drama, too. With vertical walls, sheer cliffs and a labyrinth of narrow, deep valleys, the mountains have a way of making you feel small—in the most awe-inspiring way possible. The perfect base for exploring it all is Ortisei in Val Gardena, a town renowned for its wood carving. See it for yourself at Gardena Grödnerhof Hotel & Spa. Turning 100 in 2023, it’s been under the watchful care of the Bernardi family since day one, proving that some things—like fine vino and warm hospitality—only get better with age. Wood paneling and Alpine chic define the interiors of every room, while its location—just 200 meters from a cable car—makes reaching Alpe di Siusi, Europe’s largest high-altitude plateau, a breeze.
Vietnam
In 2025, Vietnam will mark a significant moment in its history—the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War and the reunification of the nation. Ho Chi Minh City (locally still called Saigon) will host a range of events, exhibits and commemorations that reflect on this half-century milestone and showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage and beauty to the world. The city itself is a vibrant blend of Vietnamese, French and international influences. The ornate French-built Saigon Opera House, which opened in 1898, stands as a reminder of the city’s past, while the contemporary Lotus Gallery (one of the city’s first private art galleries) showcases the work of modern Vietnamese and Southeast Asian artists. To fully immerse yourself in this historic occasion, make Park Hyatt Saigon your base, where the elegance of French-era Saigon is woven into the décor. For those traveling within the country, the upcoming opening of Tan Son Nhat Airport’s Terminal 3 in 2025 will make reaching Vietnam’s 2,000-mile-long coastline more accessible than ever. On the southeast coast, nestled within Nui Chua National Park and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Amanoi—meaning “peaceful place” in Sanskrit—offers stunning views of Vinh Hy Bay. With clifftop dining, a lakeside Aman Spa and a private golden beach, it truly lives up to its name. On the southwest coast, Regent Phu Quoc is nestled on an island off Hà Tiên, offering suites and villas—each with its own private pool.
Cartagena, Colombia
What do you get when European charm meets Caribbean heat? Cartagena—a 490-year-old jewel on Colombia’s coast where history and vibrant streets collide. Enclosed by seven miles of ancient stone walls, the UNESCO-listed Old Town is best explored on foot. Stroll its colorful streets, pop into local shops and admire the colonial architecture. Fun fact: the city was designed to confuse pirates, so they’d literally get lost in its maze of identical blocks. At the center sits Casa San Agustin Hotel, a boutique retreat with a peaceful courtyard, pool and a 300-year-old aqueduct—Cartagena’s original waterworks still making waves. Just up the road, the Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena, a former 1621 convent, oozes history. In 1949, Gabriel García Márquez visited the site while reporting on the discovery of a crypt, inspiring the Nobel Prize-winning author’s novel Of Love and Other Demons. And for a jungle fix, Tayrona National Natural Park is just a short hop away. Expect epic hikes, lush rainforests and a cast of wild locals—monkeys, toucans and maybe even a jaguar if you’re stealthy enough.
Iceland
If chasing the aurora borealis is on your bucket list, 2025 is your year—experts say solar maximum will deliver the ultimate light show. And where better to see it than Iceland? Perched on the Arctic Circle, this Nordic island truly lives up to its moniker—the Land of Fire and Ice. With a frozen landscape above a volcanic hotbed, expect lava eruptions to add an element of natural drama. Travelers heading to Iceland in 2025 may notice recent volcanic activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula, near Keflavik International Airport and just southwest of Reykjavik. While flights remain unaffected and Iceland is safe to explore, it’s good to stay updated. The Blue Lagoon, temporarily closed due to seismic activity, has since reopened. For an extra-luxe experience, soak in the milky blue waters at The Retreat at Blue Lagoon, an award-winning resort with 60 suites—some with private lagoon pools. Another must-experience? The Golden Circle, a road trip like no other, with Torfhús Retreat—a storybook-like escape inspired by the architecture of an Icelandic Viking farm—at its heart. Don’t miss Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly but surely tearing apart. And no trip to Iceland is complete without a stay in Reykjavik. For a trendy base near Laugavegur Street’s shopping and restaurants (be sure to visit the famed Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur hot dog stand), check into Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre. With a diverse vinyl collection and portable record players, you’ll be grooving to more than just the aurora’s rhythm.
