Next stop, Spud State?
National Geographic has released its annual list of “World’s Best” Travel Destinations for 2025 – and it will take you everywhere, from obscure Indonesian islands to less exotic places, like Idaho.
The choices reflect what the publication says is a hunger for more obscure destinations rather than the usual tourist spots.
The statement comes at a time of extreme fatigue linked to overtourism in popular places like Italy and Spain.
The focus was, according to the editors, on “places where visitors are welcomed and support the destination’s environment and community.”
The reasoning is that visiting these specific destinations will be “beneficial for both locals and travelers,” they said.
“I like to think of Best of the World as National Geographic's annual invitation to get out and explore for yourself the incredible diversity of places and experiences around the world,” said editor-in-chief Nathan Lump, who added: “that through travel we can connect with joy and hope.
Here's a look at some of the more unexpected picks from the long list.
Raja Ampat, Indonesia
This magnificent archipelago is a sensation with its thousands of reef fish, manta rays, dugongs, zebra sharks and 500 species of coral. And this very isolated region is becoming more and more accessible to adventurers since yacht excursions are planned for 2025.
Boise, Idaho
National Geographic has tapped Idaho's growing capital as a center of Basque-American culture, dating back to the 1800s. Join locals as they celebrate their heritage at next year's Jaialdi Festival, which returns after a ten-year hiatus.
Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden
Linger for the cranberries. The 30,000 islands that make up the Stockholm archipelago provide an enchanting and cozy opportunity for a unique view of Nordic life, according to the outlet.
It's best to go between late summer and early fall, a time locals call the magic season because it's still warm but very quiet.
Barbados
The Caribbean island is taking new initiatives to revisit, in an informative light, the nation's involvement in the slave trade centuries ago. A new heritage district is set to open next year in an area where several slaves were buried.
Antigua, Guatemala
It's the ultimate walk to let off steam. Antigua is home to one of the most active volcanoes in the world, Volcán de Fuego. On a hike near the 13,045-foot-high Acatenango Volcano, you'll see unparalleled views of its massive and awe-inspiring eruptions.
Guadalajara, Mexico
Sorry Steely Dan, but Guadalajara will do.
Nat Geo praises the Mexican city for its rich roots in mariachi, so deep that they are on UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage.
Cork, Ireland
It was more than luck that Ireland was selected. In the south of the Emerald Isle, in County Cork, a huge $128 billion development initiative has been launched to renovate art galleries and waterfronts to make them much more welcoming to host concerts and festivals.
Next September, Cork city will host its music festival The sounds of a shelterco-founded by Christopher Nolan's pride and joy, local native Cillian Murphy.
Cenobitic monasteries, Italy
Your prayers have been answered.
Italy's deep-rooted history in ancient and modern Catholicism is worth exploring as 200 cenebotic monasteries from the Middle Ages are still open for business – filled with Renaissance artwork – and will welcome travelers as they did it centuries ago.
Just be prepared to be woken up by monks chanting Gregorian chants in Latin.
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Apparently, Dubai has had its time under the scorching desert sun – Abu Dhabi is touted for its focus on culture. The wealthy emirate has branches of the Louvre and Guggenheim museums.
Tunisia
More than a piece of the Roman Empire and a “Star Wars” filming location, Tunisia is lauded for its archaeological history and ruins, including a 2,000-year-old shipwreck recently discovered off its African coast.
Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa
Be realistic about big game on the new safari in KwaZulu-Natal province. The nearly 50,000-acre Babanango Reserve has successfully reintroduced rare species like endangered black rhinos, antelope species like the oribi and klipspringer, as well as elephants and lions.
Senegal
Senegal is a one-stop shop for some of the best West African cuisine in existence for its blend of Wolof and French influences. National Geographic suggests taking cooking classes in Dakar.
Bangkok, Thailand
The Thai capital is in the midst of a renaissance, according to the media.
Aside from the many works of art and design that inspire its skyline, NatGeo says Bangkok's festival scene is also a way for tourists to better experience local traditions.
Kanazawa, Japan
Noting that places like Kyoto are out of breath with the touristsNational Geographic writes that Kanazawa is a wonderful palate cleanser just a two-hour drive away – still offering a glimpse of traditional Japanese culture and architecture.
Eastern and Oriental Express, Malaysia
All aboard! The luxurious Eastern and Oriental Express would have returned to service after a four-year pandemic break.
Now back and better than ever, people can enjoy cherry wood paneling and fine Malaysian silks in the 15 carriages, which include an open-air observation cabin.
