Will Spud State be your next destination?
National Geographic has released its annual list of the “World’s Best” travel destinations for 2025. This list will take you anywhere you want to go by jet, from the lesser-known islands of Indonesia to less exotic destinations like Idaho.
These lists reflect what the magazine says is a hunger for lesser-known destinations rather than the usual tourist hangouts.
Senegal is one of the under-appreciated destinations being talked about as the next big draw for 2025. Adobe Stock
The announcement comes at a time of extreme fatigue related to overtourism in popular destinations such as Italy and Spain.
The editors said the focus was on “places that welcome visitors and support the destination environment and community.”
The rationale is that visiting these particular destinations is “beneficial for both local residents and tourists”.
“I see Best of the World as National Geographic’s annual invitation to explore for yourself the incredible diversity of places and experiences around the world. “Through travel, we can connect with joy and hope,” said editor-in-chief Nathan Lamp.
Here are some unexpected picks from the long list.
raja ampat, indonesia
Indonesia’s aquatic treasures are becoming more accessible. adobe stock
This beautiful archipelago is famous for being home to thousands of reef fish, manta rays, dugongs and zebra sharks, as well as 500 species of coral. And with yacht tours planned for 2025, this remote region is becoming more accessible to adventurers.
boise, idaho
Boise has been named a leading travel destination for 2025. Adobe Stock
Dating back to the 1800s, National Geographic featured Idaho’s rapidly growing capital as a center of Basque-American culture. Celebrate tradition with the locals at next year’s Jayardi Festival, which returns after a 10-year hiatus.
stockholm archipelago, sweden
Sweden’s Stockholm archipelago is known as a magical getaway. adobe stock
Enjoy your lingonberries. According to the paper, the 30,000 islands that make up the Stockholm archipelago are an enchanting and welcoming place that offers a unique experience of Nordic life.
It’s best to go between late summer and early fall. Locals call this period the “magical season”, when it is still warm but very mild.
barbados
Barbados is becoming a cultural hub with newly planned heritage areas. Zstock – Stock.adobe.com
A Caribbean island nation is making a new effort to reexamine the country’s involvement in the centuries-old slave trade in a useful light. A new cultural heritage area is scheduled to open next year in the area where several enslaved people were buried.
antigua, guatemala
Stunning volcanic views await in Antigua. Photo by Peter Fisher for National Geographic
It’s the ultimate walk to blow away stress. Antigua is home to one of the most active volcanoes on Earth, Volcano Fuego. Hike to the nearby 13,045-foot Acatenango Volcano for unparalleled views of its massive and spectacular eruptions.
Guadalajara, Mexico
Guadalajara, Mexico is home to a rich mariachi culture. Photo by Alejandro Segarra for National Geographic
Sorry Steely Dan, but Guadalajara is fine.
Nat Geo praises the rich roots of mariachi in the Mexican city, which has earned it a spot on UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage.
cork, ireland
Cork, Ireland, is undergoing major renovations to become a cultural hub. Jeni Photo – Stock.adobe.com
It wasn’t just luck that Ireland qualified. South of County Cork’s Emerald Isle, a major $128 billion development project is underway to renovate art galleries and the waterfront to make it more welcoming for concerts and festivals.
Next September, Cork city will host Sounds from a Safe Harbor, a music festival co-founded by local Cillian Murphy, director Christopher Nolan’s pride and joy.
Cenobitic Monastery, Italy
Holy cow! In Italy, you can stay overnight in a monastery. Photo by Andrea Frazetta for National Geographic
Your prayers have been answered.
Italy’s deeply rooted history in ancient and modern Catholicism means that its 200 medieval senebotic monasteries, still in operation and filled with Renaissance artwork, welcome visitors just as they did centuries ago. Because we accept it, it’s worth the adventure.
Be prepared to be woken up by monks shouting Gregorian chants in Latin.
abu dhabi, united arab emirates
Abu Dhabi is becoming a cultural hub. adobe stock
Looks like Dubai has been having a great time in the scorching desert sun. Abu Dhabi has been talked about for its focus on culture. The wealthy emirate acquired branches of both the Louvre and the Guggenheim Museum.
tunisia
Tunisia has a rich archaeological history. Photo by Chiara Goia for National Geographic
More than just being part of the Roman Empire and a Star Wars filming location, Tunisia is admired for its archaeological history and ruins, including a newly discovered 2,000-year-old shipwreck off the coast of Africa.
KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
South Africa is a great place to go on safari. adobe stock
Look head on when you see the big game on KwaZulu-Natal’s new safari. The nearly 50,000-acre Babanango Game Reserve has successfully reintroduced endangered black rhinos, antelopes such as oribi and klipspringer, and rare species such as elephants and lions.
senegal
Senegal’s culinary roots are unparalleled. adobe stock
Senegal offers a one-stop destination for the best of West African cuisine, a fusion of Wolof and French influences. National Geographic suggests taking a cooking class in Dakar.
Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok is becoming a global festival capital. adobe stock
Thailand’s capital is undergoing a renaissance, the paper said.
Nat Geo says that in addition to the numerous art and designs that inspire Bangkok’s skyline, Bangkok’s festival scene is also a way for tourists to better experience local traditions.
Kanazawa City
Kanazawa is an alternative to crowded Japanese tourist hotspots. adobe stock
National Geographic points out that places like Kyoto are overwhelmed by tourists, and Kanazawa, just two hours away, is a great palate cleanser that offers a glimpse of traditional Japanese culture and architecture. It is written that it is.
Eastern and Oriental Express, Malaysia
One of the world’s most luxurious railways awaits Malaysia. Photo credit: Nicolas Quiniou, Belmond
Everyone please ride! The luxury Eastern & Oriental Express has reportedly resumed operations after a four-year hiatus due to the pandemic.
Even better than before, cherry wood paneling and fine Malaysian silk can be enjoyed inside the 15 vehicles, including an outdoor cabin for observation.
