2025 Travel Destinations are poised to offer unforgettable experiences, and SIXT.VN can help you discover the best of Vietnam. Whether you’re looking for cultural immersion, adventurous explorations, or simply a relaxing beach vacation, we’ll guide you to the perfect destination and make your travel dreams a reality. Let SIXT.VN handle the logistics, so you can focus on creating lasting memories. You’ll find expert travel advisory, convenient airport transfers, hotel booking, tours, and activities.
1. Discovering The Allure of 2025 Travel Destinations
Are you dreaming of your next big adventure? 2025 is shaping up to be an incredible year for travel, with a plethora of destinations offering unique and enriching experiences. This article will explore some of the most exciting 2025 travel destinations, catering to diverse interests and preferences. SIXT.VN is here to provide expert travel advisory and convenient services to make your journey to Vietnam unforgettable. Whether you’re interested in cultural immersion, adventurous explorations, or a relaxing beach vacation, we’ll help you discover the perfect destination and plan your trip with ease.
1.1. Why Focus on 2025 Travel Destinations?
2025 is a year that offers a unique confluence of factors making it ideal for travel. Here’s why:
- Post-Pandemic Recovery: The travel industry has largely recovered from the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This means more stable travel conditions, increased flight availability, and a wider range of open attractions and services.
- New Developments and Openings: Many destinations have been using the past few years to develop new attractions, renovate existing facilities, and enhance their tourism infrastructure. 2025 will see the unveiling of many of these projects, providing travelers with fresh and exciting experiences.
- Special Events: 2025 marks several significant anniversaries and events that will draw visitors from around the globe. These include cultural festivals, sporting competitions, and historical celebrations, adding an extra layer of excitement to your travels.
- Sustainability Focus: As awareness of environmental issues grows, many destinations are prioritizing sustainable tourism practices. This means travelers can enjoy their trips while minimizing their impact on the environment and supporting local communities.
1.2. What Types of 2025 Travel Destinations Can You Explore?
2025 offers a wide variety of destinations to suit every type of traveler. Here are a few categories to consider:
- Urban Escapes: Experience the vibrant energy of bustling cities with world-class museums, diverse culinary scenes, and iconic landmarks.
- Cultural Immersion: Delve into the rich history and traditions of different cultures through historical sites, local festivals, and interactions with local communities.
- Adventurous Expeditions: Embark on thrilling outdoor adventures, from hiking and mountain climbing to water sports and wildlife encounters.
- Relaxing Retreats: Unwind on pristine beaches, rejuvenate in luxurious spas, and escape the stresses of everyday life in tranquil settings.
- Culinary Journeys: Indulge in unique gastronomic experiences, from Michelin-starred restaurants to local street food markets.
1.3. How Does SIXT.VN Enhance Your 2025 Travel Experience?
SIXT.VN is committed to providing seamless and exceptional travel experiences for visitors to Vietnam. Here’s how we can help you make the most of your 2025 adventure:
- Expert Travel Advisory: Our team of experienced travel advisors can provide personalized recommendations based on your interests, budget, and travel style. We’ll help you choose the perfect destination and create a customized itinerary that meets your needs.
- Convenient Airport Transfers: Start your trip off right with our reliable and comfortable airport transfer services. Our professional drivers will greet you upon arrival and transport you to your hotel or other destination in Hanoi, ensuring a stress-free beginning to your vacation.
- Extensive Hotel Options: We offer a wide selection of hotels to suit every budget and preference. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious five-star resort or a cozy boutique hotel, we’ll help you find the perfect accommodation for your stay in Hanoi.
- Curated Tours and Activities: Discover the best of Hanoi and surrounding areas with our curated tours and activities. From historical walking tours to adventurous excursions, we offer a variety of experiences that will immerse you in the local culture and create lasting memories.
- Seamless Booking Process: Our online booking platform makes it easy to plan and book all aspects of your trip in one place. You can browse destinations, compare prices, and secure your reservations with just a few clicks.
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Exploring the charm of Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
2. Urban Escapes: The Excitement of City Travel in 2025
For those who thrive on the hustle and bustle of city life, 2025 offers a range of dynamic urban destinations. These cities are brimming with cultural attractions, innovative culinary scenes, and unique experiences that will leave you captivated.
2.1. Detroit, USA: A City on the Rise
Detroit is experiencing a renaissance, with new projects bringing energy to its neighborhoods. Mayor Mike Duggan highlighted this magical time, inviting visitors to witness the transformation.
- Book Tower: This reimagined landmark features a Roost hotel, a Basque tapas bar, and several high-end restaurants.
- Shinola Hotel: The Shinola Hotel continues to be a game-changer, adding to Detroit’s unique hospitality scene.
- Michigan Central: Ford’s $1 billion investment has transformed this former symbol of urban decay into an innovation hub.
According to research from the Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau in 2024, Detroit’s tourism is projected to increase by 15% in 2025 due to these developments, providing significant economic benefits and enhancing the city’s reputation.
2.2. Hong Kong and Shenzhen, China: A Tale of Two Cities
Hong Kong and Shenzhen offer a blend of cultural heritage and modern innovation. Hong Kong boasts new cultural offerings and luxury hotels, while Shenzhen impresses with its rapid growth and modern infrastructure.
- West Kowloon Cultural District: This district includes Art Park, the Hong Kong Palace Museum, and M+, a contemporary gallery.
- K11 Musea: This mixed-use development houses the Rosewood Hong Kong.
- Shenzhen: Known for its beaches and mountain views, Shenzhen is a modern metropolis easily accessible from Hong Kong.
According to a 2023 report by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, visitor arrivals are expected to double in 2025, showcasing the region’s growing appeal, emphasizing seamless connectivity and diverse attractions.
2.3. Marrakesh, Morocco: A Blend of Tradition and Luxury
Marrakesh offers a captivating blend of traditional Moroccan culture and modern luxury. A new nonstop flight from Newark makes it more accessible than ever.
- New Hotels: The Park Hyatt and a refurbished Four Seasons Resort add to the city’s high-end accommodation options.
- Unique Stays: Consider the Oberoi, Rosemary, or Nobu Hotel Marrakech Riad for a unique experience.
- Culinary Excellence: The Selman Marrakech was voted one of the world’s best hotels by T+L readers.
Research from the Moroccan National Tourist Office shows that easier access via direct flights will boost U.S. tourism to Marrakesh by 20% in 2025, enhancing cultural exchange and economic growth in the region.
2.4. Portland, USA: The Laid-Back Pacific Northwest
Portland is appealing to outdoor lovers with its parks and trails. New developments and infrastructure upgrades make it an attractive destination.
- Cascada: Portland’s first underground thermal springs spa and eco-hotel.
- Portland Art Museum: A $111 million renovation will add 100,000 square feet to the museum.
- Portland International Airport: A $2 billion redevelopment has created a nature-inspired main terminal.
According to the Portland Bureau of Transportation, increased biking by 5% since 2022 highlights the city’s eco-friendly focus, with infrastructure improvements providing better access for tourists.
2.5. Rome, Italy: A City of Celebration
Rome is preparing for the Jubilee in 2025, which occurs every 25 years, welcoming pilgrims from around the world.
- New Hotels: Palazzo Talìa, Romeo Roma, Casa Monti, Corinthia Rome, Mandarin Oriental, and Rosewood Rome are among the new luxury accommodations.
- La Dolce Vita Orient Express: This new luxury train will offer itineraries up and down the peninsula.
- Cultural Sites: Explore lesser-known areas of Rome to avoid the crowds during major holidays.
Research from the Vatican indicates that the Jubilee year is expected to attract over 30 million pilgrims to Rome in 2025, contributing significantly to the city’s economy and cultural exchange.
2.6. Sacramento, USA: California’s Hidden Gem
Sacramento’s $1.3 billion airport renovation is set to be completed in 2025, accommodating new nonstop flights. The city’s food and music scene is also gaining recognition.
- Michelin-Recognized Restaurants: Sacramento is home to 15 Michelin-recognized restaurants.
- Food and Music Festivals: The Farm-to-Fork Festival and GoldenSky Country Music Fest are major attractions.
- Oakland Athletics: The team will relocate to Sutter Health Park for the 2025–2027 seasons.
According to Visit Sacramento, the city’s transformation as a food destination and music festival mecca has flown somewhat under the radar, but is finally attracting serious attention, making it a hidden gem.
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Tourists gathering at Rome’s iconic Trevi Fountain.
3. Cultural Immersion: Deepening Your Understanding of the World in 2025
For those seeking a deeper connection with different cultures, 2025 offers a range of destinations rich in history, traditions, and artistic expression.
3.1. Budapest, Hungary: A Cosmopolitan Transformation
Budapest is undergoing a transformation with new luxury hotels and restored cultural spaces.
- New Hotels: The W Budapest, Kimpton BEM Budapest, and Dorothea Hotel are among the new luxury accommodations.
- Városliget (City Park): A $1 billion restoration includes new cultural spaces like the House of Music Hungary and the Museum of Ethnography.
According to Exeter International, time and investment have turned Budapest into a very exciting city, from tiny vintners to food insiders and Jewish-history specialists.
3.2. Bukhara, Uzbekistan: A Silk Road Revival
Bukhara is hosting the first-ever Bukhara Biennial in 2025, aiming to bring together international creatives.
- Bukhara Biennial: The event, titled “Recipes for Broken Hearts,” will feature works by artists like Laila Gohar and Antony Gormley.
- UNESCO Recognition: Bukhara’s crafts and folk art traditions have gained recognition on the international stage.
UNESCO highlights that the Bukhara Biennial serves as an incredible opportunity for cultural legacies and contemporary ideas to come into contact with each other.
3.3. Charleston, USA: Southern Charm and Cultural Riches
Charleston continues to be a favorite city in the U.S., with new attractions and events.
- International African American Museum: Opened last summer, this museum is a significant cultural landmark.
- Food & Wine Classic in Charleston: This event brings together renowned chefs from around the U.S.
- New Hotels: The Cooper will be the Holy City’s first five-star hotel.
According to T+L readers, Charleston has been voted their favorite city in the U.S. for 12 years running, highlighting its ongoing appeal and rich cultural history.
3.4. Inverness and the Flow Country, Scotland: Highland Heritage
Inverness is becoming a big-time destination, serving as a base to explore the Scottish Highlands.
- The Flow Country: This massive sweep of bogs and peatland was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage list in July.
- Inverness Castle Experience: A major restoration will transform the castle into a venue for history, music, and regional cuisine.
- Cabot Highlands: This resort and golf operator offers play on the Castle Stuart Golf Links.
VisitScotland highlights Inverness as the perfect base from which to explore the stunning Highland scenery, iconic castles, majestic mountains, and unique wildlife.
3.5. Lisbon and the Algarve, Portugal: A Coastal Blend
Lisbon and the Algarve offer a mix of urban culture and coastal beauty.
- New Hotels in Lisbon: Six Senses Lisbon, Nobu Hotel Lisbon, The Standard, Lisbon, Kimpton Lisbon, and several Hilton properties are all opening their doors in 2025.
- Algarve Region: Home to some of Europe’s most beautiful beaches and charming towns.
- New Flights: United has a seasonal nonstop route from Newark Liberty International Airport to Faro.
According to Standard International, a lot of cool things are happening in Lisbon, and it’s still somewhat affordable, making it an attractive destination.
3.6. Luxor, Egypt: Ancient Wonders
Luxor is known for its astonishing collection of ancient temples.
- New Flight: A new nonstop EasyJet flight from London will improve access to the city.
- Al Moudira and Beit Sabée: These vibey hotels add to Luxor’s appeal.
- Nour El Nil: This outfitter runs a fleet of chic dahabeahs, or cruising barges.
T+L highlights that taking a deeper look at one of Egypt’s most evocative cities should be easier in 2025, thanks to improved access and accommodation options.
3.7. Thailand: A Destination of the Year
Thailand is a top destination with white-sand beaches, delicious street food, and ancient temples.
- New Hotels in Bangkok: The Aman Nai Lert Bangkok and The Ritz-Carlton will open later this year, followed by Six Senses The Forestias and Hyatt’s Andaz in 2025.
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- **The White Lotus:** Season three of The White Lotus* is set in the country and slated for early 2025.
- Kanchanaburi: A town in west Thailand with beautiful scenery, cool places to stay, and fascinating history.
According to InsideAsia Tours, Thailand has everything you want with beautiful scenery, cool places to stay, and fascinating history.
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Exploring the historic architecture of Lisbon.
4. Adventurous Travelers: Embracing the Thrill of Exploration in 2025
For the adventurous souls seeking adrenaline-pumping experiences, 2025 offers a plethora of destinations with unique and thrilling activities.
4.1. The Caucasus: A Crossroads of Cultures
The Caucasus region, including Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia, is gaining attention with new itineraries.
- Atlas Obscura and Intrepid Tour: These companies have teamed up to create a two-week swing through cities including Baku, Tbilisi, and Yerevan.
- Cultural Exploration: Visit wineries, bakeries, crafts ateliers, historical sites, mosques, and churches.
According to Atlas Obscura, these trips make it possible to see these still-emerging destinations without having to tackle all the logistics independently.
4.2. Greenland: A Land of Ice and Adventure
Greenland is experiencing a surge in tourism as travelers seek to witness its unique landscape.
- New Airport: Greenland’s first-of-its-kind international airport is slated to open in late 2024 in Nuuk.
- New Flights: United will become the first U.S. airline to operate flights to the country come 2025.
- New Tours: Outfitters are adding new tours that go beyond the southwest coast, offering wildlife watching and trips to the interior.
NASA confirms that Greenland is losing about 270 billion tons of ice mass each year, making now the time to visit, as confirmed by Abercrombie & Kent.
4.3. Kumaon, India: Himalayan Hideaways
Kumaon, in the Himalayas, offers tranquility and stunning mountain views.
- Shakti Prana: Shakti plans to open a seven-cabin retreat in October.
- Tranquil Environment: The dramatic mountain backdrop lends a certain breathless quality to trips in the region.
- Mountain Views: The location provides stunning views of the Great Himalayas and the Ramganga River valley.
Shakti highlights that the new property will be the latest in a string of mountain lodges from the brand, which has nearly two decades of experience in high-elevation environments.
4.4. Madagascar: An Island of Biodiversity
Madagascar is gaining popularity as outfitters add fresh itineraries for 2025 that focus on the country’s ecological riches.
- New Emirates Service: Links Dubai and Madagascar’s capital city of Antananarivo.
- New Hospitality Offerings: Namoroka Tsingy Camp opened its safari tents in August 2024.
- Unique Wildlife: Lush rainforests, dramatic canyons, and endangered lemurs and jeweled chameleons.
According to Red Savannah’s Africa specialist, travelers want to see things their friends have not, to be among the first and to feel they are on a true adventure.
4.5. Nicaragua: A Well-Kept Secret
Nicaragua is known among surfers and nature lovers for its rugged coastline, tropical jungles, and active volcanoes.
- Costanera Highway: A new 75-mile highway slated to connect towns and beach communities along the Pacific coast by the end of 2025.
- Resorts: Rancho Santana and Mukul offer access to surf breaks, wellness classes, and rainforest hikes.
- Jicaro Island Lodge: Part of the sustainability minded Cayuga Collection with nine tree houses situated in Lake Nicaragua.
Rancho Santana notes that the situation has stabilized, and today travelers are confidently returning to Nicaragua, particularly regions like the Pacific coast.
4.6. The Philippines: An Archipelago of Treasures
The Philippines is a destination with sapphire-blue waters, limestone cliffs, and cosmopolitan cities.
- New Hotels in Manila: A dozen hotels have opened over the past few years, including the Admiral Hotel.
- El Nido: From the Pavilions Hotels & Resorts, will welcome several newcomers.
- Nay Palad Hideaway: A stunning rebuild on the island of Siargao.
According to Travel Advisory Board, this archipelago of 7,641 islands has a lot to offer if one is willing to go deeper.
4.7. Universal Orlando: A Theme Park Revolution
Universal Orlando Resort’s massive expansion will add Universal Epic Universe, a state-of-the-art park with five new lands.
- Epic Universe: Slated to open in May 2025, with new lands featuring classic monsters, Nintendo franchises, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
- New Hotels: Universal Helios Grand Hotel, Universal Stella Nova Resort, and Universal Terra Luna Resort will join the portfolio.
Universal Orlando Resort highlights that Universal Epic Universe marks a huge transformational moment for Universal Orlando Resort, and it will change everything about the destination.
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Kayaking amid the stunning ice formations of Greenland.
5. For The Food and Drinks Lovers: Savoring Culinary Delights in 2025
For those whose travels are guided by their taste buds, 2025 promises a delectable array of destinations offering unique and unforgettable culinary experiences.
5.1. Colorado’s Western Slope: An Emerging Wine Region
Colorado’s Western Slope is gaining a reputation for Rieslings and other cool-climate grapes.
- Upstart Wineries: Including Carlson Vineyards, The Storm Cellar, and Sauvage Spectrum.
- Grand Valley AVA: May enjoy something of a hedge against a warming world, situated as it is above 4,000 feet.
- Outdoor Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, and paddling in this stretch of the Rockies is top-flight.
Food & Wine highlights that when it comes to Colorado’s emerging scene, which is centered around the town of Grand Junction, there are plenty of upstarts worth seeking out.
5.2. Crete, Greece: A Culinary Island Paradise
Crete is home to some 6,000 islands, over 200 of them inhabited.
- New Hotels: The InterContinental Crete opened in the summer of 2024, and JW Marriott will unveil its first Greece property in 2025.
- Rosewood Blue Palace: Set to make its debut on a striking stretch of Crete’s northern shore in 2026.
- Cultural Riches: The Palace of Knossos and the Minoan Palace at Phaistos.
IHG confirms the opening of the InterContinental Crete in the summer of 2024, a sign of the city’s growing luxurious accommodation options.
5.3. Osaka, Japan: Culinary Capital
Osaka is fast becoming a must-visit for anyone heading to Japan, thanks to its world-renowned culinary scene and electric nightlife.
- Expo 2025: Running April through October, with the theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.”
- New Hotels: The Four Seasons opened in 2024, and the first Japan property from Patina Hotels & Resorts is opening in the spring.
- Rihga Royal Hotel Osaka: A landmark property with 90 years of history that’s slated to wrap a major renovation by April 2025.
Japan Travel highlights that Expo 2025 will be held on Yumeshima Island in Osaka Bay, with organizers expecting more than 28 million visitors.
5.4. Priorat, Spain: A Wine-World Insider’s Secret
Priorat is poised to become the next big thing with gorgeous landscapes, ancient villages, and cutting-edge approaches to vineyard tourism.
- World-Class Reds: Wineries including Perinet and the family-run Clos de l’Obac.
- Sustainable Winemaking: Clos Mogador and Cellers de Scala Dei have embraced sustainable winemaking practices.
- Michelin Recognition: Restaurants such as Brots and Quatre Molins have nabbed Michelin recognition.
Authentic Explorations confirms that Priorat is one of Spain’s hidden gems, but 2025 is the perfect year to discover it before it truly explodes on the travel scene.
5.5. San Antonio, USA: A Culinary Hotspot
San Antonio has been on the cutting edge of culinary innovation, with several restaurants, bars, and breweries in contention for James Beard Awards.
- Mexico Ceaty: Chef and restaurateur Jason Dady will be opening Mexico Ceaty in early 2025.
- Pullman Market: A 40,000-square-foot dining complex that exemplifies the farm-to-market ethos.
- New Hotels: Kimpton Santo and the InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk.
Pullman Market highlights the difference and value of truly fresh and truly local, whether it’s whole fresh fish from the Gulf of Mexico, Berkshire pigs from down the road, or butter from a herd of cows whose milk tastes of the Texas landscape.
5.6. San Diego, USA: A Culinary Destination
San Diego is becoming even more exciting as new openings further bolster San Diego’s global culinary cred.
- Le Coq: A modern French steak house opened by Tara Monsod.
- Yakitori Tsuta: The city also welcomed its first omakase yakitori restaurant.
- Fleurette and Lucien: More noteworthy projects are coming soon from chefs Travis Swikard and Elijah Arizmendi.
According to Le Coq, there’s an undeniable energy here — creativity and passion are coming from all the chefs, and the city is buzzing to be recognized as a true culinary destination.
5.7. Slovenia: Central European Charm
Slovenia has impressed the Michelin inspectors, with 63 restaurants earning recognition in 2024, including the three-star Hiša Franko and two-star Restaurant Milka.
- Luxury Travel: Black Tomato introduces for 2025 some new experiences in Slovenia.
- Wine Regions: A trip from Black Tomato will take wine lovers to three distinct regions, including Primorska, Posavje, and Podravje.
- New Hotels: Vila Muhr, Wine Paradise Glavinić, and Hotel Bloom.
Black Tomato confirms that Slovenia has never been more popular, introducing new experiences for 2025 for those seeking a luxurious culinary journey.
5.8. Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico: Baja’s Wine Country
Valle de Guadalupe is getting the recognition it deserves, with awards for its wines and a new generation of Mexican vintners.
- El Cielo Resort: Received 12 awards for its wines at the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles.
- Trendy Wine Bars: Like Bloodlust, which doubles as an indoor-outdoor music venue.
- Banyan Tree Veya Valle de Guadalupe: A 30-villa property with a winery dedicated to Grenache.
Banyan Group highlights that Valle de Guadalupe is having a moment with an incredibly diverse array of wineries and a culinary destination in its own league.
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Lunch at a restaurant with traditional Greek cuisine in Crete.
6. For Moments on the Water: Coastal and Maritime Escapes in 2025
For those who find solace and adventure by the sea, 2025 presents an array of destinations with stunning coastlines, tranquil islands, and thrilling maritime activities.
6.1. Apostle Islands, USA: A Spiritual and Commercial Hub
The Apostle Islands are seeing their status as a spiritual and commercial hub for the Ojibwe come toward center stage.
- Madeline Island Museum: Artifacts are coming out of their cases and being incorporated into more contemporary exhibits.
- Ojibwe Chef Bryce Stevenson: A key figure in the Indigenous Food Sovereignty movement, operates Miijim.
- Native Foods: The menu centers Native foods from Native producers, whether bison from out west or spruce tips and other ingredients foraged on Mooningwanekaaning.
Madeline Island Museum is seeking to partner proactively with Ojibwe tribes, artists, historians, and knowledge keepers to keep Ojibwe worldview perspectives centered in a meaningful way.
6.2. Barbados: A Multifaceted Island Experience
Barbados offers hiking on Chalky Mount, Atlantic waves at Bathsheba’s Soup Bowl, calm waters on the western shore, and five-star resorts.
- Harrison’s Cove Eco-Adventure Park: Offers ziplining and obstacle courses.
- New Flights: New daily American Airlines flights from New York and new once-weekly service from Philadelphia.
- New Hotel: The Rockley opened near the nation’s capital of Bridgetown.
According to The Sandpiper, this island promises an unforgettable experience, with newly upgraded adventure parks and calm crystal-clear waters.
6.3. The French Riviera: Timeless Glamour
The French Riviera is home to a clutch of chic hotels, reinvigorating the region and proving that when it comes to the Côte d’Azur, fashion may change, but style endures.
- Hôtel du Couvent: Set in a 17th-century monastery overlooking the city of Nice.
- Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel: The brand’s first France property.
- Arev: Has brought a breath of fresh air to St.-Tropez, with a glamorous, playful aesthetic.
Hôtel du Couvent’s latest property is set in a 17th-century monastery overlooking the city of Nice, with simple rooms done out in a soothing neutral palette.
6.4. Iceland, by Cruise Ship: Exploring the Island’s Northern Reaches
Visiting Iceland by ship allows passengers to see the rarely visited northern reaches of the island, stopping at towns such as Akureyri and Ísafjörður.
- Cruise Lines: Viking, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Oceania Cruises will offer itineraries that include stops in Iceland.
- Typical Tourist Trail: Cruises can, paradoxically, help diffuse crowds in and around the country’s most popular landmarks by taking people off the typical tourist trail.
According to Viking, several weeklong circumnavigations will be offered in 2025, aboard Viking Mars, to give cruisers a chance to circumnavigate the island and see what it has to offer.
6.5. Nova Scotia, Canada: Maritime Wonders
Nova Scotia is deserving of fame, with outdoor wonders and easier access.
- New Flights: American Airlines has launched daily service from New York’s La Guardia Airport to Halifax.
- Muir Halifax: An Autograph Collection hotel right on the city’s waterfront, with a 36-foot yacht.
- Sable Island National Park Reserve: An island with towering sand dunes, the world’s largest breeding colony of gray seals, and wild horses.
American Airlines has launched daily service from New York’s La Guardia Airport to Halifax, making the trip easier for tourists coming from New York.
6.6. Tasmania, Australia: Rugged Beauty by Sea
Tasmania can be explored by sea, giving up to 12 guests the chance to explore one of the world’s most remote frontiers.
- On Board Tasmanian Expedition Cruises: Launched its route around the state in the spring of 2024.
- Cruise Lines: Silversea and Disney Cruise Line will visit the island with a series of Australia and New Zealand cruises.
On Board Tasmanian Expedition Cruises highlights that traveling by boat means you can follow the coast and sample different parts of what makes the island so special.
6.7. Trieste, Italy: A Port City Reimagined
Trieste has become an alternative destination for cruise ships, many of which are now barred from docking in the historic parts of Venice.
- Caffè degli Specchi: In Piazza Unità d’Italia, it’s the perfect introduction to this highly caffeinated city that’s home to the Illy brand.
- Slovenia and Friuli-Venezia Giulia: That’s a boon for visitors, who arrive that much closer to Slovenia and the under-touristed corners of Friuli-Venezia Giulia.
According to The Italian Concierge, it’s the perfect introduction to this highly caffeinated city that’s home to the Illy brand — and that has long been a crucial hub for the global coffee trade.
6.8. Star Seeker: Windstar Cruises’ New Ship
Windstar will add an entirely new 112-cabin ship, Star Seeker, to its lineup at the end of 2025.
- Suite Categories: High-end Horizon Owner’s suites and more affordable Oceanview suites.
- Itineraries: Will spend early 2026 in the Caribbean, later transit the Panama Canal, sail the summer in Alaska, and then continue on to Japan.
Windstar Cruises has a reputation for casual cruising to places that bigger vessels often miss, and the addition of the new Star Seeker ship will offer a new selection of cruises to customers.
6.9. Viking Vela: Expanding the Viking Fleet
Viking Vela will be the first 998-passenger vessel from the line that’s consistently voted among the world’s best.
- Sustainable Future: The additional space is also aimed at a more sustainable future for the cruise line.
- Partial Hybrid-Propulsion System: Based on liquid hydrogen and fuel cells, which could allow operation at zero emission in the Norwegian fjords.
- Itineraries: Will spend the first part of 2025 sailing in the Mediterranean before heading to northern Europe.
Viking confirms that the new ship will be hydrogen-ready and can be retrofitted in the future to work toward a sustainable system.
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A cruise ship navigating Iceland’s stunning fjords.
7. For Nature Lovers: Connecting with the Natural World in 2025
For those who seek solace and wonder in the great outdoors, 2025 offers a diverse range of destinations with breathtaking landscapes, unique ecosystems, and opportunities for wildlife encounters.
7.1. Anchorage, Alaska: A City Amidst Nature
Anchorage is worthy of a closer look, located in the largest state of the United States.
- Innovation: The city is busting open with innovation
- New Hotels: The Wildbirch Hotel will open in early 2025, and the Hilton is getting a glow-up.
- BlueWater BaseCamp: Offers cabin living in the nearby Eklutna Valley.
According to the Municipality of Anchorage, the city is busting open with innovation, making it worth a closer look.
7.2. Bhutan: A Kingdom of Happiness
Bhutan is looking to spread the love by positioning the country as a crowd-free alternative to just about anywhere else in the world.
- Tourism Services Portal: A digital directory that has intel on hundreds of tour operators, guides, and hotels.
- Trans-Bhutan Trail: A 250-mile, cross-country pathway that officially reopened in 2022.
- High-Elevation Hotels: New five-star hotels have opened in recent years.
According to the prime minister of Bhutan, the few visitors that have