Reviving Fun as the Travel Trend of 2025
According to National Geographic’s editor-in-chief, Nathan Lump, the biggest trend in travel for 2025 is the return of “fun.” Speaking to CNN ahead of the release of the annual Best of the World 2025 list, Lump highlighted how this year’s selections emphasize joy and discovery. “With the challenges and complexities of the world today, we wanted to focus on destinations that spark excitement and fun,” he said.
Festive Cities and Cultural Experiences
Guadalajara, Mexico made the cut thanks to its famous mariachi festival, held every August and September. Over 500 bands bring music to life in the Teatro Degollado and public squares, filling the streets with joy.
Boise, Idaho, known for its vibrant Basque community, will host the Jaialdi festival in 2025 after a 10-year hiatus. Daily street parties, traditional dancing, and sports competitions will be featured, making it a cultural hotspot for visitors.
Serene and Meaningful Escapes
For travelers seeking a more peaceful experience, Italy’s Cenobitic monasteries offer a spiritual retreat. These ancient monasteries, dating back to the Middle Ages, welcome visitors of all faiths for monastic stays, allowing for deep self-reflection and meaningful connections.
Urban Revivals and Iconic Cities
The Irish city of Cork is undergoing a transformation, with a multi-billion euro development plan set to conclude by 2028. Known for its vibrant culture and friendly locals, Cork is poised to become an even more dynamic destination.
National Geographic also spotlights well-known destinations such as Bangkok, Thailand and Los Angeles, California. In Bangkok, restoration efforts at Wat Chaiwatthanaram, a 17th-century Buddhist temple, offer visitors a more intimate connection to the city’s spiritual heritage. Meanwhile, Los Angeles is celebrating an expansion of its art scene, particularly the revitalization of Crenshaw Boulevard, which will feature over 100 works by Black artists.
Unique Natural and Cultural Immersions
One of Lump’s favorite destinations is Haida Gwaii, a group of islands off British Columbia’s coast. As the ancestral home of the Haida people, it offers a distinct cultural immersion, with activities like whale watching and meeting local artists. This slower-paced travel destination allows visitors to reconnect with nature.
Slow travel enthusiasts will also enjoy Malaysia’s Eastern & Oriental Express, a luxury train service returning in 2025. Travelers can embark on the “Wild Malaysia” journey, which includes wildlife photography classes and learning about endangered Malayan tigers.
Adventurous and Active Getaways
For those seeking adventure, Guatemala’s Volcán de Fuego and India’s Suru Valley are ideal destinations. In Guatemala, visitors can hike the neighboring Acatenango volcano for unbeatable views of one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Suru Valley, in northern Ladakh, India, is growing in popularity as a rock-climbing destination, culminating in the annual Suru Outdoor Fest.
Greenland is another must-visit destination, made more accessible by new international flights. Lump calls it one of his favorite places, offering a glimpse into how the planet is changing due to climate shifts.
Lesser-Known Alternatives
For travelers looking to experience Japan without the crowds of Kyoto, Kanazawa is the perfect alternative. Known for its gold leaf production, Kanazawa offers a quieter, more peaceful way to immerse in traditional Japanese culture.
For the full list of National Geographic’s top destinations for 2025, including spots in Florida, Sweden, Tunisia, and Indonesia, visit Best of the World 2025.
