As we move into 2025, several unique and lesser-known destinations around the world are rising in popularity, offering visitors a mix of history, natural beauty, and unique experiences. Here are some of the top places to consider for your next adventure.
1. Governor’s Island, New York, USA
Governor’s Island, the birthplace of New York City, is a growing tourism destination. It offers unique attractions like an outdoor sculpture-turned-climbing boulder, resident sheep, and a wellness spa with stunning skyline views. In 2025, visitors will find new dining options in a restored historic building. Cunard’s nine-night Transatlantic Crossing starts from £632 per person.
2. Korčula, Croatia
Korčula, the rumored birthplace of Marco Polo, is filled with rich history and cultural events. It celebrates its heritage with festivals like the Korkyra Baroque Festival and Moreška sword dancing displays. Seabourn’s seven-day Jewels of the Dalmatian Coast starts at £7,239 per person.
3. Muiron Islands, Australia
Muiron Islands, located in the UNESCO-listed Ningaloo Reef, offer mesmerizing coral reefs, dugongs, manta rays, and more. It’s a diver’s paradise. The 13-day Ningaloo & The Bluewater Wonders of Australia’s West tour starts at £5,187 per person.
4. Española Island, Ecuador
Española, a wildlife haven in the Galápagos Islands, is home to unique species like marine iguanas, giant tortoises, and sea lions. It offers one of the world’s best wildlife viewing experiences. The four-day Galápagos tour with Royal Galapagos starts at £1,329 per person.
5. Skomer Island, UK
From April to July, Skomer Island hosts over 40,000 puffins, making it a top birdwatching destination. With limited daily visitors, the island remains peaceful and perfect for nature lovers. The Skomer Landing tour starts from £24 per person.
6. Curieuse Island, Seychelles
Curieuse Island is home to giant Aldabra tortoises and rich mangrove forests. Visitors can explore a 19th-century doctor’s house and spot endangered species. Crystal Cruises’ 14-day Mahé to Singapore tour starts from £4,800 per person.
7. Isla Ballestas, Peru
Isla Ballestas, off Peru’s coast, is a wildlife hotspot with blue-footed boobies, sea lions, and Humboldt penguins. Boat tours offer a close-up view of this diverse animal kingdom. Azamara’s 11-day Peru & Chile Voyage starts at £1,919 per person.
8. Hiva Oa, French Polynesia
Hiva Oa, one of the Marquesas Islands, is known for its volcanic peaks, sacred tiki sculptures, and the graves of Paul Gauguin and Jacques Brel. The 12-day Discover the Marquesas tour starts from £2,788 per person.
9. South Georgia, Antarctica
South Georgia offers a dramatic, cold landscape with penguin colonies, historic whaling stations, and Shackleton’s burial site. Quark Expeditions’ 18-day South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula tour starts from £14,445 per person.
10. El Hierro, Spain
El Hierro is the smallest Canary Island, offering volcanic cliffs, hiking trails, and serene natural pools. It’s perfect for those seeking an uncrowded, adventurous retreat. The nine-day Lisbon to Tenerife tour with Hapag-Lloyd starts from £3,432 per person.
11. Wayag, Indonesia
Wayag in Raja Ampat is known for its kaleidoscopic coral reefs and marine life, ideal for diving and water sports. The seven-night Raja Ampat and West Papua Expedition with Aqua Expeditions starts at £7,812 per person.
12. Grímsey, Iceland
Grímsey, located above the Arctic Circle, features dramatic cliffs, seabirds, and a quaint village church. It offers a tranquil escape into Iceland’s natural beauty. AE Expeditions’ 12-day Iceland: Circumnavigating the Land of Fire & Ice tour starts at £11,131 per person.
13. Prince Edward Island, Canada
Prince Edward Island, known for its golden beaches and stunning dunes, is hosting an outdoor festival with Shania Twain in 2025. Holland America’s seven-day Canada & New England cruise starts from £1,434 per person.
14. Bequia, St Vincent & the Grenadines
Bequia offers a laid-back atmosphere with pristine beaches and a chic, upscale vibe. Explore the island’s quieter beaches and enjoy delicious cocktails. Silversea’s seven-day Bridgetown to Bridgetown tour starts at £3,200 per person.
15. Harbour Island, Bahamas
Harbour Island’s Pink Sands Beach is a must-see with its shimmering rose-hued sand. Visitors can also enjoy local cuisine at the recently reopened Sip Sip restaurant. The five-night Fort Lauderdale to Fort Lauderdale Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection tour starts from £5,100 per person.
16. Sardinia, Italy
Sardinia, known for its Blue Zone-inspired wellness, is ideal for relaxation. Its beautiful beaches, like La Pelosa, offer a peaceful retreat. CroisiEurope’s eight-day Mediterranean cruise starts at £3,729 per person.
17. The Maldives
The Maldives remains a top destination for its sandy atolls and turquoise waters. Traditional dhoni cruises offer a more affordable and authentic experience. G Adventures’ seven-day Maldives Dhoni Cruise starts at £1,349 per person.
18. Île de Ré, France
Île de Ré is a serene escape near La Rochelle, offering local markets, seafood, and bike paths. It’s a perfect destination for food lovers. P&O Cruises’ seven-night Spain & France Cruise starts at £599 per person.
19. Tasmania, Australia
Tasmania offers a variety of delicious local produce, including truffles, oysters, and sparkling wine. Hobart’s vibrant dining scene is a highlight for foodies. Coral Expeditions’ nine-day Tasmania Harvest and Heritage tour starts from £3,768 per person.
20. Bornholm, Denmark
Bornholm, with its mild climate, is known for its artfully plated dishes using locally grown fruits. It’s a great spot for food lovers. Viking Cruises’ 15-day Viking Homelands tour starts from £6,990 per person.
21. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a foodie’s paradise, with dishes like kottu roti and egg hoppers. The Pekoe Trail offers an immersive food and culture experience. Azamara’s 17-night India & Sri Lanka Voyage starts from £3,039 per person.
22. Waiheke Island, New Zealand
Waiheke Island, dubbed the “island of wine,” offers vineyard tours and delicious meals at local restaurants. The 14-day Auckland to Sydney Oceania Cruises tour starts from £5,249 per person.
These 22 destinations offer something for every kind of traveler, from wildlife enthusiasts to beach lovers and foodies. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, 2025 promises to be an exciting year for global travel.
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