The calendar year 2025 is fast approaching and travelers are already seriously booking next year's getaways. American Express has just released its annual list of trending destinations, featuring 10 must-see global hotspots. The list is based on card member booking data and year-over-year increases.
In the United States, the focus is clearly on travelers wanting to visit the great outdoors. “Moab, Utah and Sun Valley, Idaho are seeing growth in bookings, particularly (from) Millennials and Generation Z,” said Audrey Hendley, president of American Express Travel. Travel + Leisure.
This includes accommodations like ULUM Moabwhere luxury glamping safari tents offer a secluded stay near Canyonlands and Arches National Park, and Sun Valley Hotelwith year-round outdoor adventure and a full-service spa.
Susmita Baral/Travel + Leisure
These two properties are part of Amex's new hotel collection, a portfolio of more than 1,000 premium accommodations around the world. More than 300 new hotels will be added in 2024, Amex says. Hotel Collection guests enjoy exclusive benefits, such as late check-out and a $100 property credit, when booking directly with Amex Travel and with an Amex Platinum or Amex Gold card.
“The question Amex Travel is asked most by card members is 'where should I go next?' » added Hendley. This report helps answer that question. Here is the full list of trending destinations for 2025, in no particular order, according to the data.
- Brisbane, Australia
Wedged between the Gold and Sunshine Coast, Brisbane has a vibrant food and nightlife scene, world-class museums and is a surfer's paradise. Recommended hotel: Hotel X Brisbane Fortitude - Brittany, France
Located in the northwestern-most region of France, Brittany is part of a hilly peninsula stretching toward the Atlantic Ocean with a distinctive culture, coastal landscapes and miles of seaside walking trails.
Recommended hotel: The Grand Hotel Dinard - Franschhoek, South Africa
South African wine is on full display in Franschhoek, a a gem surrounded by mountains and the perfect complement to a safari vacation with dozens of wineries, farm-to-table restaurants and hiking.
Recommended hotel: Delaire Graff Lodges And Spa - Koh Samui, Thailand
This popular Thai beach, with its pristine white sands and turquoise waters, will be featured in next season's film. White Lotus. Set-jetters rejoice.
Recommended hotel: Four Seasons Hotel Koh Samui - Macau, China
Macau not only lies off the coast of Hong Kong, but it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers unique Cantonese-Portuguese fusion cuisine. Of course, there's the nightlife and casinos that make it nicknamed “Las Vegas of the East.”
Recommended hotel: Mandarin Oriental Macau - Moab, Utah
Moab is the perfect starting point for exploring the American Southwest, with several national parks on the city's doorstep. Outdoor adventurers will experience everything from mountain biking to rock climbing to off-roading in Hummers.
Recommended hotel: ULUM Moab - Nikko, Japan
It's no longer just about Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. Nikko is a nestled mountain retreat with photogenic waterfalls and numerous hiking trails.
Recommended hotel: Hotel Nikko Kanaya - Paros, Greece
Greece will remain popular with Americans in 2025, Amex estimates. But more laid-back Paros has become the Greek island of choice with a vibrant cultural scene and a rocky coastline dotted with beaches and sea caves.
Recommended hotel: Before Tue - Sao Paulo, Brazil
While Rio might attract more attention, São Paulo will shine next year with its architectural heritage, museums and local fashion among the best on the continent. Don't forget the Formula 1 races either.
Recommended hotel: Sao Paulo Rosewood - Sun Valley, Idaho
From skiing to spas and with fewer crowds than other Western resorts, Sun Valley appeals to a wide range of travelers. And don't sleep on the destination in summer, either, with activities like trout fishing and whitewater rafting.
Recommended hotel: Sun Valley Hotel
