Travel possesses an unparalleled ability to connect us, ignite our imaginations, and profoundly reshape our perspectives. Gazing into the abyss of a roaring waterfall in Newfoundland or scaling the jagged peaks of the Italian Dolomites serves as a potent reminder of the Earth’s breathtaking grandeur. Yet, while travel ideally acts as a catalyst for positive change, recent years have underscored its potential to strain and even damage cherished locales. Consequently, many destinations are now implementing measures to mitigate the detrimental consequences of overtourism.
In this guide to the best places to travel in 2025, we spotlight destinations that are not only open to visitors and brimming with exceptional travel opportunities but are also leveraging tourism as a force for good. Each of these 25 locations is committed to utilizing tourism to bolster local economies, safeguard natural environments, and uphold their distinctive cultural legacies. This curated list is the result of collaborative insights from BBC Travel journalists and esteemed sustainable travel organizations worldwide, including the United Nations World Tourism Organization, Sustainable Travel International, the Black Travel Alliance, and the World Travel & Tourism Council.
As tourism rebounds beyond pre-pandemic levels in numerous regions, and as climate change and extreme weather events expose the fragility of many iconic destinations, mindful travel becomes increasingly crucial. Choosing where to travel thoughtfully means considering how your journey can contribute to a greater purpose.
From traversing a surreal, moon-like terrain in Bolivia to indulging in Arctic glamping in Greenland, your next extraordinary adventure awaits.
1. Dominica: Ethical Whale Encounters and Caribbean Eco-Tourism
Imagine swimming alongside majestic sperm whales in their natural habitat. Dominica, a pioneering Caribbean island, now offers this extraordinary experience through ethical and sustainable practices, solidifying its commitment to marine conservation and regenerative tourism. Dominica recently established the world’s first sperm whale reserve, a protected marine sanctuary dedicated to these magnificent creatures. Limited permits for whale swims ensure intimate and respectful interactions, providing visitors with an unparalleled opportunity to connect with these cetaceans while supporting crucial research and fostering sustainable tourism opportunities for local communities.
Dominica is enhancing its infrastructure to welcome visitors in 2025. Digital immigration forms will streamline arrivals, and a new cable car system will transport guests from Roseau Valley to Boiling Lake, one of the world’s largest thermal springs. Accessibility to the island has been further improved with United Airlines launching direct flights from Newark on February 15th, complementing existing American Airlines flights from Miami. The island is also experiencing a hotel boom, with nearly 500 new rooms becoming available, representing a 25% increase in inventory. Notable openings include the luxurious six-star Hilton Tranquility Beach Resort and Spa in Salisbury. For eco-conscious luxury, Secret Bay remains a top choice, consistently recognized for its sustainability efforts.
Dominica is also the base for Project CETI, a groundbreaking international initiative led by National Geographic Explorer David Gruber, aiming to decode the intricate language of whales. Beyond marine wonders, Dominica boasts hidden gorges, cascading waterfalls, and unique culinary experiences like the farm-to-table Lacou. Dominica is not just a destination; it’s a model for eco-tourism, harmonizing biodiversity conservation with economic growth, ensuring your adventure contributes to protecting this natural paradise for future generations.
2. Naoshima, Japan: Art Island Revival in the Seto Inland Sea
Naoshima Island in Japan, famed for Yayoi Kusama’s iconic yellow Pumpkin sculpture, has transformed into a haven for contemporary art and architecture enthusiasts. Once known for its polluting copper smelting industry, Naoshima’s metamorphosis is attributed to Benesse Art Site Naoshima, which has spearheaded the creation of major museums and site-specific artworks within the stunning Seto Inland Sea. This region, nestled between Honshu and Shikoku, is scenically breathtaking yet grappling with population decline, making Naoshima’s revival particularly impactful.
Spring 2025 marks the inauguration of the Naoshima New Museum of Art, masterfully designed by Tadao Ando, the acclaimed architect behind nine other projects on the island. This museum, dedicated to showcasing Asian artists, will be a highlight of the Setouchi Triennale. This year’s Triennale, the largest since its inception in 2010, will span over 100 days across spring, summer, and autumn, featuring artwork unveilings and events across 17 islands and coastal areas of the Seto Inland Sea, allowing visitors to experience the region through different seasonal perspectives. The festival and Benesse Art Site Naoshima have been instrumental in revitalizing not only Naoshima but also the neighboring islands of Teshima and Inujima.
Plan ahead to visit the Teshima Art Museum, a unique fusion of art, architecture, and nature by Rei Naito and Ryue Nishizawa. On Inujima, be captivated by the reimagined copper refinery, now an epic art installation. For accommodations, consider Roka, a contemporary ryokan on Naoshima, or the minimalist Espoir Inn on Teshima. Naoshima exemplifies how art and culture can drive regeneration and create a compelling travel destination.
3. The Dolomites, Italy: Alpine Majesty and Olympic Buzz
Italy, a perennial favorite, hardly requires further introduction, particularly in a year when Rome, its overtouristed capital, anticipates even larger crowds due to the 2025 Jubilee. However, if Italy remains on your 2025 travel list, venture north to the majestic Dolomite Mountains for a different Italian experience.
For Italians, the dramatically beautiful Dolomites are synonymous with family vacations and luxurious getaways. The sawtooth limestone cliffs stretch across Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, and Friuli-Venezia Giulia, attracting Italians with charming villages, world-class skiing, exceptional hiking, and hearty Alpine cuisine. Often overlooked by international travelers, the Dolomites are poised for increased recognition.
Cortina d’Ampezzo, the “Queen of the Dolomites,” will co-host the 2026 Winter Olympics. Preparations throughout 2025 will include extensive infrastructure upgrades, creating a pre-Olympic excitement. Visitors can anticipate expanded ski lift networks in the Dolomiti Superski area, with modernized lifts and enhanced public transit connections in Alta Badia and Val Gardena. New and upgraded cable cars, lifts, and gondolas will be introduced across the region’s towns.
The Dolomites are captivating year-round. Spring, summer, and autumn offer excellent trails, such as the new 170km Cammino Retico (The Rhaetian Way), connecting remote villages between Veneto and Trentino. For relaxation, the luxurious Aman Rosa Alpina hotel will reopen in 2025 with expanded accommodations, including presidential suites and the private Chalet Zeno. Visit the Dolomites now, before the Olympic crowds arrive, to experience this classic Italian playground.
4. Greenland: Accessible Arctic Adventures and Inuit Culture
Greenland, the world’s largest island, is unlike any other place on Earth. Spanning over two million square kilometers with a population of fewer than 57,000, Greenland boasts unspoiled wilderness, majestic fjords, vast ice caps, and spectacular mountains. Its remote location has long made it a coveted geopolitical entity and a destination for adventurous travelers seeking unique experiences.
Greenland offers stunning hiking and whale watching in summer, and dog sledding and the aurora borealis in winter. However, its remoteness, expense, and travel time have been barriers—until now.
The opening of a new international airport in Nuuk, the capital, followed by two more in 2026, dramatically improves Greenland’s accessibility. Greenland welcomes mindful adventure travelers who appreciate its incredible nature and unique Inuit culture. The country has adopted a “towards better tourism” pledge, and new legislation aims to channel tourism funds to benefit local communities.
Nuuk, a modern town with a historic waterfront, museums, and art galleries, serves as a gateway to Greenland’s Arctic wonders, offering hiking, fishing, and glamping trips. Further north in Ilulissat, explore the breathtaking icebergs of Disko Bay and the UNESCO-recognized Icefjord. Southern Greenland, once settled by Vikings, features beautiful fjords and green hills dotted with sheep farms. Greenland is becoming increasingly accessible, inviting travelers to discover its Arctic beauty and Inuit heritage responsibly.
5. Wales: Year of Welcome and Sustainable Exploration
Wales, despite being a sixth the size of England and less frequented than other UK destinations, is rich in national parks, medieval castles, and crowd-free landscapes. 2025 presents an ideal opportunity to explore this up-and-coming European destination as Wales celebrates its Year of Croeso (“Welcome”). This year-long event highlights Welsh culture, language, and attractions, inviting visitors to “Feel the hwyl,” a Welsh word describing profound joy in the moment.
Wales has positioned itself as a leader in sustainable, culturally focused travel. Tourism plays a role in Welsh language revival, and a £5 billion program uses tourism funds for environmental sustainability. For the Year of Croeso, Wales invests in mobility bikes to enhance accessibility to its wild landscapes. Wales is home to the Wales Coast Path, the world’s only path encircling an entire country’s coastline.
Recent years have seen Wales championing sustainable tourism and cultural preservation. The nation’s commitment to eco-friendly practices and the celebration of its unique Welsh identity make it an attractive destination for conscious travelers in 2025. The Year of Croeso offers an immersive experience into Welsh hospitality and culture, encouraging deeper exploration of this captivating nation.
6. Western Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada: Trans-Labrador Highway Unveiled
Labrador, the mainland part of Newfoundland and Labrador in eastern Canada, is a vast, rugged region known for coastal villages, icebergs, subarctic forests, and waterfalls, steeped in 9,000 years of history. 2025 marks a turning point with the completion of the Trans-Labrador Highway, a 1,200km project, 25 years and $1 billion in the making, transforming this remote landscape into a more accessible destination.
The new circular route, Expedition 51, connects Labrador to five Canadian provinces, with detours into the US and even France via St Pierre and Miquelon. To promote sustainable tourism and celebrate cultural heritage, the Canadian government has invested $180 million in Parks Canada sites in Western Newfoundland and Labrador. In 2025, Red Bay National Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage site and former Basque whaling station, will debut a boardwalk and visitor center. L’Anse aux Meadows, the first Norse settlement in North America, enhances ecological protections and visitor facilities. Gros Morne National Park will introduce exhibits highlighting its geology, wildlife, and landscapes.
The Trans-Labrador Highway opens up unparalleled access to Labrador’s natural and historical treasures. Travelers can now explore previously isolated regions, delve into rich history, and experience the raw beauty of this Canadian frontier. This improved accessibility, coupled with investments in heritage sites, positions Western Newfoundland and Labrador as a prime destination for adventurous and culturally curious travelers in 2025.
7. Tucson, Arizona, US: Gastronomic Heritage and Desert Charm
Tucson, Arizona, celebrates significant milestones in 2025: the 10th anniversary of becoming the first US UNESCO City of Gastronomy and the 250th anniversary of its founding. Originally part of Mexico, Tucson will commemorate its multinational history and deep-rooted Native American cultures with a free event on August 23rd at the Presidio San Agustin del Tucson, featuring traditional Mexican music and dance. Throughout the year, visitors can explore Tucson’s desert hiking trails and historic buildings, including the 250-year-old San Xavier del Bac Mission, the “White Dove of the Desert.” Tucson is also set to receive a Sustainability Index Award from the Global Destination Sustainability Movement (GDS).
The gardens near San Xavier del Bac Mission hold the oldest continuously cultivated soil in the US. Four thousand years ago, Tohono O’odham ancestors farmed here. This ancient agricultural heritage, blended with Mexican and Indigenous flavors, continues to shape Tucson’s culinary scene. Diners can experience this unique food culture at city-of-gastronomy-certified restaurants or Heirloom Farmers Markets, featuring local ingredients like chiltepin chilis, nopales, and prickly pear.
Tucson’s anniversaries in 2025 highlight its rich history, cultural diversity, and commitment to sustainability. As a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, Tucson offers a distinctive culinary journey rooted in ancient traditions and desert-adapted agriculture. This blend of history, culture, and gastronomy, combined with stunning desert landscapes, makes Tucson a compelling destination in 2025.
8. Western Australia: Gateway to Pristine Landscapes and Indigenous Culture
Perth, often called the world’s most isolated big city, and Western Australia (WA) have long been overshadowed by Australia’s east coast. However, with Australia’s only direct flights to Europe, Perth is emerging as the nation’s western gateway and a global aviation hub. A $5 billion redevelopment of Perth Airport and new connections to Asia are enhancing the travel experience, positioning WA as a must-visit destination in 2025.
Beyond Perth and the Swan Valley Wine Region, WA’s vast landscapes cover over 2.5 million square kilometers, including 12,500km of coastline, pink lakes, horizontal waterfalls, karri forests, wildflowers, and unique wildlife encounters. Sustainability-minded road trippers can explore via the new 6,600km Electric Vehicle Highway, the world’s longest EV charging network.
WA champions its cultural heritage through the A$20 million Jina Aboriginal Tourism Action Plan, supporting Indigenous-led experiences and business development. Travelers can learn about ancient cultures on walking tours in Rockingham or coastal foraging tours in Broome. Murujuga National Park, with ancient petroglyphs, is under UNESCO World Heritage consideration in 2025. New infrastructure on the Houtman Abrolhos Islands, boutique hotels in Fremantle, and unique stays in the Great Southern further enrich WA’s appeal. Western Australia is poised to redefine Australian travel in 2025, offering a blend of natural wonders, cultural immersion, and sustainable tourism initiatives.
9. Sri Lanka: Resilient Island Rebound and Cultural Treasures
Sri Lanka, with its tea plantations, wild elephants, ancient temples, and surf, offers diverse attractions. Despite facing economic challenges in recent years, Sri Lanka is resiliently rebuilding through tourism.
Kandy will see the opening of its first seven-star hotel, Aviyana Private Chalets, and Aarunya Nature Resort has a new family villa with a stargazing oculus. A $1 billion megaresort is opening in Colombo, and Sri Lanka’s new airline, Air Ceilão, will launch flights to Europe and Australia. The nation also launched the Good Travel Seal initiative, recognizing sustainable businesses.
Visitors can enjoy scenic train rides into the mountainous interior, explore Colombo and Galle’s evolving cocktail scene featuring arrack, and hike the 300km Pekoe Trail through tea plantations and villages. An innovative startup offers self-drive tuk-tuk rentals for island exploration, directly benefiting local owners. Sri Lanka’s blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and new tourism developments make it a compelling and supportive destination in 2025.
10. Panama: Canal Anniversary and Biodiversity Hotspot
Panama marks the 25th anniversary of its sovereignty over the Panama Canal in 2025, a pivotal moment in its history. New exhibits at the Museo del Canal highlight Panama’s path to control over this vital waterway. Beyond the canal, Panama boasts jungles, islands, and forests.
The Meaningful Travel Map to Panama launched in 2024, promoting locally led travel experiences. Explore Panama City’s Casco Antiguo and El Chorrillo neighborhoods with Localinpty walking tours. In La Pintada, witness the UNESCO-recognized sombrero pintao hat-weaving tradition. El Valle de Anton, named a UN Tourism Best Tourism Village in 2024, offers hikes like the Cerro Gaital Lookout Trail, part of Panama’s 1,000 km of Trails project, showcasing Panama’s biodiversity.
Panama’s 25th canal anniversary provides a timely moment to explore its history and diverse attractions. From urban culture in Panama City to natural wonders and community-based tourism initiatives, Panama offers a rich and meaningful travel experience in 2025.
11. Rif Mountains, Morocco: Northern Charm and Cultural Heritage
Morocco, known for mountains, deserts, ancient cities, and rich culture, is recovering from the Al Haouz earthquake of September 2023. As Morocco rebuilds and prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, it aims to double tourist arrivals.
Explore the less-frequented Rif Mountains in northern Morocco. The planned High-Speed Rail expansion will link Rabat to Fez, a 1,300-year-old Rif Mountain city with a UNESCO World Heritage medina, hosting Africa Cup of Nations 2025 games. From Fez, visit Moulay Idriss, an ancient hilltop village, and Ouezzane, a Sufism center. Hike in Talassemtane National Park, and explore Chefchaouen, the “Blue Pearl” with blue buildings. Discover Mediterranean fishing villages like El Jebha and Tetouan along Morocco’s northern coast.
The Rif Mountains offer an alternative Moroccan experience, rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, away from typical tourist crowds. Improved rail access and diverse landscapes, from ancient cities to coastal villages, make the Rif Mountains a compelling destination in 2025.
12. Bradford, England: UK City of Culture 2025
Bradford, in northern England, emerges from Leeds’ shadow as the 2025 UK City of Culture. A year-long program includes the reopening of the National Science and Media Museum and celebrations of local icons: David Hockney, the Brontë sisters, and diverse musical traditions.
Events reflect Bradford’s diversity, from Little Germany’s 19th-century architecture to dramatic moors hosting an immersive sound walk. Bradford’s residents represent diverse backgrounds and a young population. As a UNESCO City of Film, Bradford has hosted productions like Peaky Blinders and Wuthering Heights. In 2025, an interactive cookbook project celebrates local community recipes.
Bradford’s designation as UK City of Culture in 2025 spotlights its rich cultural tapestry, historic sites, and creative energy. The year-long program promises a diverse array of events and experiences, making Bradford a must-visit destination to explore contemporary British culture beyond London.
13. Jordan: Adventure Hub in the Middle East
Jordan, home to desert landscapes and Petra, is emerging as the Middle East’s adventure destination. Despite regional tensions affecting tourism, Jordan is considered relatively safe by travel advisories.
In 2023, the Wadi Rum Trail, a 120km hiking path, opened, traversing Wadi Rum’s iconic desert landscapes featured in films like Star Wars and Dune. This community tourism project promotes sustainable travel and Bedouin cultural preservation. Jordan has 33 protected ecosystems. Wadi Mujib Biosphere Reserve offers canyoning and wildlife viewing. Dana Biosphere Reserve hosts diverse bird and mammal species. Aqaba Marine Reserve, added to the IUCN Green List, supports coral reefs and diving.
Jordan’s commitment to adventure tourism and conservation makes it a unique Middle Eastern destination in 2025. From hiking the Wadi Rum Trail to exploring biosphere reserves and marine sanctuaries, Jordan offers diverse outdoor experiences alongside its historical treasures.
14. Haa Valley, Bhutan: Sustainable Seclusion in the Himalayas
Bhutan, a carbon-negative nation prioritizing Gross National Happiness, has long been a sustainability leader. The Haa Valley, a pristine region bordering Tibet, remained Bhutan’s best-kept secret, opening to foreigners in 2002.
Fewer than 2% of travelers visit Haa Valley, despite its proximity to Paro International Airport. It is now balancing preservation with development, offering access to the restored Trans Bhutan Trail, the new Haa Panorama Trail, and the Joy Bay Tsho Trek. Sustainable, locally run homestays and accommodations like Katsho Eco Camp and Sangwa Camp provide cultural immersion. Visitors can experience Bon rituals and rare experiences in Bhutan’s lone strict nature reserve. With Bhutan’s Sustainable Daily Fee halved through 2027, Haa Valley is more accessible while maintaining low-impact tourism.
Haa Valley in Bhutan offers an unparalleled experience of sustainable and culturally immersive travel in 2025. Its remote beauty, commitment to preservation, and enhanced accessibility, combined with Bhutan’s sustainable tourism policies, make it an exceptional destination for conscious travelers.
15. Hawaii, US: Responsible Rebuilding and Mālama Program
Hawaii is rebuilding after devastating wildfires in Maui, experiencing a visitor downturn. As families and businesses rebuild, they invite responsible travelers to return through the Mālama Hawaii program.
Mālama, meaning “to protect,” embodies stewardship and respect. The program connects travelers with over 350 volunteer opportunities, from forest restoration to supporting Maui families and preserving habitats. In exchange, travelers receive discounted or free stays at hotels and resorts across the islands, including the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea.
Visiting Hawaii in 2025 offers a chance to support its recovery and engage in responsible tourism through the Mālama Hawaii program. By participating in volunteer efforts, travelers can contribute to the islands’ healing while enjoying discounted stays, fostering a mutually beneficial and meaningful travel experience.
16. Uzbekistan: Youthful Energy and Silk Road Revival
Uzbekistan, with a young population, is investing in tourism, blending tradition with modernity. New hotels, train routes, flights, and cultural attractions are being developed.
Uzbekistan will host its first major international Bukhara Biennial in September 2025. Cultural developments include an expansion of the State Museum of Arts and restoration of the Palace of Prince Romanov. Visa-free entry is available to over 90 countries. The president aims to create a Global Green Tourism Startup Lab. Cross-border travel is easier, with the new Silk Road railway tour connecting Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.
Uzbekistan in 2025 represents a vibrant blend of youthful energy and rich Silk Road heritage. With visa-free access, new cultural events, and improved infrastructure, Uzbekistan is becoming an increasingly accessible and engaging destination for those seeking to explore Central Asia’s historical and contemporary landscapes.
17. Haida Gwaii, Canada: Indigenous Sovereignty and Natural Wonders
Haida Gwaii, an archipelago off British Columbia, offers landscapes and a connection to nature, culture, and history. Isolated, ecologically rich islands are home to over 6,800 species and the Haida People for 15,000 years.
The Gaayhllxid/Gíihlagalgang “Rising Tide” Haida Title Lands Agreement in 2025 marks a transformative moment for Indigenous rights in Canada, recognizing the Council of the Haida Nation as the governing body. This revitalizes Haida culture and environmental stewardship. Visitors can explore Haida villages like SG̱ang Gwaay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and unique wildlife. Guests learn Haida Laws, including Gina ‘waadluxan gud ad kwaagid (“everything depends on everything else”), emphasizing Earth care.
Haida Gwaii in 2025 offers a unique opportunity to witness Indigenous sovereignty in action and explore a destination of profound natural and cultural significance. The landmark agreement and the islands’ commitment to environmental stewardship provide a powerful context for visitors seeking respectful and enriching travel experiences.
18. Emerald Coast, Nicaragua: Surfing and Coastal Highway
Nicaragua, Central America’s largest country, remains less visited despite rainforests, lakes, volcanoes, and Granada, a UNESCO-enshrined city celebrating its 500th anniversary in 2024.
The new Carretera Costanera, a 350km highway linking 53 beaches along the Pacific Coast, is set to be completed in 2025. This $400 million project improves access from Managua to surf hubs like San Juan del Sur and Popoyo along the Emerald Coast, aiming to boost Nicaragua’s economy through tourism. Visitors can surf, stay in rainforest treehouses, and visit Refugio de Vida Silvestre La Flor, witnessing turtle nesting between September and October.
The Emerald Coast of Nicaragua becomes more accessible in 2025 with the completion of the Carretera Costanera, opening up its beaches, surf spots, and natural beauty to a wider audience. This improved infrastructure, coupled with Nicaragua’s rich cultural and natural offerings, positions it as an emerging destination in Central America.
19. Isle of Man: Self-Governing Island and Biosphere Reserve
The Isle of Man, surrounded by the UK but not part of the Commonwealth, is self-governing with the world’s oldest continuous parliament, Tynwald. It is committed to preserving its character and sustainable tourism.
Rich in historical sites like Cashtal yn Ard and Castle Rushen, the Isle of Man was recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere in 2016. The Manx Birdlife Point of Ayre National Reserve opened in July 2024. 2025 marks the 175th anniversary of Okell’s Brewery, celebrated with tasting tours. Explore the island on foot, experiencing diverse landscapes from fields to peaks like Snaefell mountain, offering views of the UK and Ireland.
The Isle of Man in 2025 offers a unique blend of self-governing identity, UNESCO Biosphere status, and accessible natural beauty. Its rich history, commitment to sustainability, and diverse landscapes make it a compelling destination for travelers seeking a distinctive British Isles experience.
20. Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan Region: Mountain Majesty and Responsible Tourism
Pakistan, one of the world’s most populated nations, remains a travel surprise. Responsible tourism initiatives and sustainable efforts aim to attract eco-conscious visitors to its northern regions, home to five of the 14 peaks over 8,000m, including K2.
Salam Pakistan, Pakistan’s first national tourism brand launched in 2023, simplifies e-visas and bookings, including mountaineering and trekking visas. Gilgit-Baltistan, “heaven’s gate,” features valleys, lakes, and waterfalls. Hunza Valley offers cherry blossoms and apricot orchards. Deosai plains and Shangri-La-esque lakes dot the landscape. The Khunjerab Pass on the China border will be operational year-round in 2025.
Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region in 2025 is poised to become a premier destination for adventure and eco-tourism. With improved accessibility, sustainable tourism initiatives, and breathtaking mountain scenery, Pakistan offers unparalleled experiences for intrepid travelers.
21. Azores: Marine Sanctuary and Volcanic Wonders
The Azores, a nine-island Portuguese archipelago in the Atlantic, are known for hot springs, lakes, and lava tubes. Already boasting black-sand beaches and whale watching, the Azores now feature Europe’s largest protected marine sanctuary, approved in October 2024.
The Marine Protected Area extends 287,000 sq km, safeguarding deep-sea corals, sharks, and 28 whale and dolphin species. Furnas Valley features active volcanoes, hot springs, and Terra Nostra Park. The Terra Nostra Garden Hotel offers enhanced thermal pools in 2025. Sample cozido das Furnas, a local stew cooked underground, and purple volcanic tea. Visit the Gorreana Tea Factory, Europe’s oldest tea plantation.
The Azores in 2025 offer a unique combination of marine conservation leadership and volcanic landscapes. Europe’s largest marine sanctuary, coupled with geothermal wonders and lush scenery, makes the Azores an exceptional destination for nature lovers and eco-conscious travelers.
22. Kansas City, Missouri, US: Cultural Rebranding and BBQ Capital
Kansas City, Missouri, is rebranding as a cultural destination in 2025, promoting its arts scene and BBQ culture. Urban revitalization includes new museums, entertainment districts, and hotels.
The Museum of BBQ, the world’s first dedicated to smoked meat, opens at Crown Center in spring 2025. The Berkley Riverfront continues development with dining, shops, and apartments. Kansas City International Airport completed renovations in 2023. The KC Streetcar extension, opening this summer, improves access to destinations like Union Hill and the National WWI Museum and Memorial. Rock Island Bridge reopens in spring 2025 as a new entertainment district.
Kansas City in 2025 is undergoing a cultural renaissance, emphasizing its arts, cuisine, and urban experiences. The opening of the Museum of BBQ and ongoing developments, coupled with improved infrastructure, position Kansas City as a rising cultural destination in the US.
23. Bolivia: Bicentennial Celebrations and Indigenous Heritage
Bolivia celebrates its 200th anniversary in August 2025 with events throughout the year. Even beyond the Uyuni salt flats and La Paz, Bolivia is worth visiting in 2025.
Oruro Carnival, from February 24th to March 5th, includes a UNESCO-listed folk-dance parade. In Potosí, sample bicentennial singani. Chuquisaca (Sucre) hosts many Quechua peoples and the Museo de Arte Indígena. The Aymara people welcome visitors to Isla del Sol in Lake Titicaca. Community-based tourism networks offer experiences like the Chalalan Ecolodge in Madidi National Park.
Bolivia in 2025 offers a unique opportunity to celebrate its bicentennial and explore its rich Indigenous heritage and diverse landscapes. From vibrant carnivals to historical cities and community-based tourism initiatives in the Amazon, Bolivia provides a culturally rich and adventurous travel experience.
24. Botswana: Green Safari Leader and Okavango Delta Openings
Botswana, Africa’s green safari leader, is expanding its tourism sector in 2025. Visa-free entry is granted to visitors from 104 countries. Explore Chobe National Park and the UNESCO-listed Okavango Delta, home to cheetahs and black rhinos.
The Okavango Delta will see new openings, including the solar-powered Mbamba Camp and Monachira Camp, offering walking safaris and canoe rides. New Air Botswana routes from April 2025 connect Gaborone to Cape Town, improving accessibility.
Botswana in 2025 is becoming more accessible while maintaining its commitment to green safari tourism. With visa-free entry and new eco-friendly camps in the Okavango Delta, Botswana offers premier wildlife experiences for sustainable and luxury travelers.
25. Oslo, Norway: Sustainable City and Nordic Beauty
Oslo, Norway, known for walkability, dining, and access to fjords, promotes sustainable tourism. A viral ad questions, “Is it even a city?” highlighting its natural integration.
Visit Oslo Responsibly guidelines and the Green Oslo Guide encourage sustainable practices. Hotels feature green roofs. Support local businesses like the Norwegian Adventure Company, offering sustainable experiences. Dine at farm-to-table restaurants like Michelin-starred Maaemo. Explore Oslo in 2025 to discover its blend of urban life and natural beauty, committed to sustainability.
Oslo in 2025 exemplifies sustainable urban tourism, blending city life with easy access to nature. Its commitment to green practices, walkability, and world-class dining, coupled with stunning Nordic landscapes, makes Oslo a leading example of responsible and enjoyable travel in the modern world.
