Travel That Inspires, Connects, and Transforms
Travel has the incredible ability to connect us with new cultures, inspire fresh perspectives, and even transform the way we see the world. Whether it’s standing at the edge of a powerful waterfall in Newfoundland or scaling the jagged peaks of the Italian Dolomites, every journey reminds us of the planet’s breathtaking beauty. However, while travel should be a positive force, recent years have shown how excessive tourism can strain local communities and ecosystems. As a result, many popular destinations are introducing restrictions to combat overtourism and protect their natural and cultural heritage.
In response, the BBC has introduced its first-ever guide to the top travel destinations of the year—focusing on places that not only offer incredible experiences but also benefit from responsible tourism. Each of these 25 locations welcomes visitors while using tourism to uplift local communities, safeguard the environment, or preserve cultural traditions. This curated list was developed with insights from BBC Travel journalists and leading sustainable tourism organizations, including the United Nations World Tourism Organization, Sustainable Travel International, the Black Travel Alliance, and the World Travel & Tourism Council.
As global travel rebounds beyond pre-pandemic levels and climate change continues to impact beloved destinations, making mindful travel choices has never been more important. Selecting destinations where tourism can have a meaningful, positive impact ensures that our adventures contribute to a better future.
From exploring Bolivia’s otherworldly landscapes to experiencing luxury glamping in Greenland’s Arctic wilderness, extraordinary journeys await those who seek adventure with purpose.
1. Dominica: A Haven for Marine Conservation and Adventure
Have you ever dreamed of swimming alongside majestic sperm whales? Dominica now makes this possible through a responsible and sustainable approach. This Caribbean island has taken a pioneering step in marine conservation by creating the world’s first sperm whale reserve—an exclusive protected zone designed to safeguard these gentle giants. With a limited number of permits available, visitors can enjoy an intimate and respectful encounter with these incredible creatures while supporting conservation research and fostering sustainable tourism for local communities.
Looking ahead to 2025, Dominica is enhancing its tourism infrastructure to improve visitor experiences. The introduction of digital immigration forms will streamline arrivals, and a new cable car system will transport travelers from Roseau Valley to Boiling Lake, one of the world’s largest thermal springs. Reaching the island is now more convenient than ever—United Airlines is launching direct flights from Newark on February 15, adding to the existing American Airlines routes from Miami.
Accommodation options are also expanding, with nearly 500 new rooms boosting availability by 25%. The upcoming Hilton Tranquility Beach Resort and Spa in Salisbury promises a six-star luxury experience, while those seeking a renowned eco-friendly retreat can opt for Secret Bay, a sustainable property consistently ranked among the world’s best.
2. Naoshima, Japan: A Contemporary Art Haven
Famed for hosting one of Yayoi Kusama’s striking yellow polka-dotted Pumpkin sculptures, the island of Naoshima has become a premier destination for lovers of modern art and architecture. Once primarily known for its copper smelting industry, the island has undergone a remarkable transformation, thanks to Benesse Art Site Naoshima. This visionary initiative has established world-class museums and site-specific installations throughout the stunning yet sparsely populated Seto Inland Sea, nestled between Japan’s main islands of Honshu and Shikoku.
Spring 2025 will mark another milestone with the opening of the Naoshima New Museum of Art, designed by acclaimed architect Tadao Ando, who has already left his imprint on the island with nine other architectural masterpieces. The museum, dedicated to showcasing works by Asian artists, will be a key attraction during this year’s Setouchi Triennale, a celebrated art festival featuring installations and events across 17 islands and coastal areas. Spanning 100 days over three seasons—spring, summer, and autumn—this will be the largest Triennale since its launch in 2010.
Beyond Naoshima, the festival and the efforts of Benesse Art Site Naoshima have played a crucial role in revitalizing neighboring islands like Teshima and Inujima, proving how art can breathe new life into communities while preserving their cultural and natural landscapes.
3. The Dolomites, Italy: A Stunning Alternative to Overtouristed Hotspots
Italy is a perennial favorite among travelers, and with Rome set to host an influx of visitors for the 2025 Jubilee, its already crowded streets will be even busier. But if Italy is on your must-visit list this year, consider heading north to the breathtaking Dolomite Mountains—a spectacular yet often-overlooked region that offers a perfect blend of adventure, luxury, and cultural charm.
For Italians, the Dolomites are a beloved destination for both family vacations and high-end getaways. Stretching across the regions of Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, and Friuli-Venezia Giulia, this dramatic alpine landscape is home to picturesque villages, pristine ski resorts, thrilling hikes, and hearty Alpine cuisine. While this stunning mountain range is a well-known playground for locals, it has remained somewhat under the radar for international tourists—but that’s about to change.
The 2026 Winter Olympics will bring the Dolomites into the global spotlight, with Cortina d'Ampezzo, known as the Queen of the Dolomites, set to co-host the Games. Throughout 2025, extensive infrastructure improvements will enhance the area, preparing it for the Olympic buzz. The Dolomiti Superski area is expanding its ski lift networks, with Alta Badia and Val Gardena introducing modernized lifts and improved transit connections. Meanwhile, several towns in the region will debut new cable cars, gondolas, and lifts, making access to the slopes and scenic trails easier than ever.
For those seeking an authentic Italian escape, the Dolomites promise awe-inspiring landscapes, exhilarating outdoor activities, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere—without the overwhelming crowds of Italy’s more tourist-heavy cities.
4. Greenland: The Ultimate Arctic Adventure Awaits
There is truly no place on Earth like Greenland. As the world’s largest island, spanning over two million square kilometers, it remains one of the most remote and untouched destinations. With a population of just 57,000, Greenland’s vast ice cap, towering mountains, and breathtaking fjords create a landscape unlike any other—offering adventure seekers the experience of a lifetime.
From summer hikes through pristine wilderness and whale watching in icy waters to traditional dog sledding and witnessing the mesmerizing aurora borealis in winter, Greenland is a dream destination for those craving the extraordinary. However, its remoteness, high costs, and limited accessibility have long been barriers for many travelers—until now.
The opening of a new international airport in Nuuk in 2025 will make Greenland easier to reach than ever, with two additional airports set to follow in 2026. The country is welcoming mindful adventure travelers—those who appreciate Greenland’s rugged beauty while respecting its fragile environment and rich Inuit heritage. In line with its commitment to responsible tourism, Greenland has introduced a pledge for "better tourism", alongside a new law ensuring that tourism revenues directly benefit local communities.
For those seeking an authentic, untouched Arctic experience, Greenland is no longer just a distant dream—it’s a destination that’s finally within reach.
5. Wales: A Warm Welcome Awaits in 2025
Although Wales is just one-sixth the size of England and often overshadowed by its more famous UK neighbors, this hidden gem is brimming with breathtaking national parks, medieval castles, and peaceful landscapes—all without the overwhelming crowds. Its under-the-radar charm makes it an ideal destination for those seeking history, nature, and tranquility in one of Europe’s most up-and-coming travel spots.
In 2025, travelers have an extra reason to visit: Wales is celebrating the Year of Croeso ("Welcome"), a year-long tribute to Welsh culture, language, and heritage. This special event invites visitors to "Feel the hwyl", a uniquely Welsh concept that captures a deep, joyful immersion in the moment—whether it’s exploring ancient fortresses, hiking through rugged coastlines, or experiencing the warmth of local communities.
With its rich traditions, stunning landscapes, and heartfelt hospitality, Wales in 2025 promises an experience unlike any other—one that lingers long after the journey ends.
6. Western Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada: A Journey Into the Wild
Labrador, the mainland portion of Newfoundland and Labrador, is a vast and untamed region in eastern Canada, defined by windswept coastal villages, towering icebergs, subarctic forests, and breathtaking waterfalls. With a human history stretching back over 9,000 years, this remote land has long been an adventurer’s dream—but in 2025, it’s set to become more accessible than ever.
After nearly 25 years and a $1 billion investment, the final stretch of the 1,200 km Trans-Labrador Highway is complete, transforming this 294,330 sq km wilderness into an easily navigable destination. The new Expedition 51 circular route connects Labrador with five Canadian provinces and even offers detours into the US and France (via St. Pierre and Miquelon).
To promote sustainable tourism and honor the rich cultural heritage of this once-isolated northern region, the Canadian government has committed $180 million toward Parks Canada sites in Western Newfoundland and Labrador.
In 2025, visitors can look forward to:
- A new interactive boardwalk and visitor center at Red Bay National Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former Basque whaling station.
- Enhanced ecological protections and upgraded visitor facilities at L'Anse aux Meadows, the first known Norse settlement in North America.
- New interpretive exhibits at Gros Morne National Park, showcasing its dramatic geology, wildlife, and rugged landscapes.
With its unspoiled beauty, rich history, and newfound accessibility, Western Newfoundland and Labrador is emerging as a must-visit destination for intrepid explorers seeking an authentic Canadian adventure.
7. Tucson, Arizona: A Celebration of Culture, History, and Sustainability
Tucson is set for a monumental 2025, marking two major milestones: the 10th anniversary of its designation as the first UNESCO City of Gastronomy in the US and the 250th anniversary of its founding. Originally part of Mexico, Tucson has long been a crossroads of cultures, blending Native American, Mexican, and Southwestern influences into a city with a distinct identity.
On 23 August, the city will honor its rich history with a free celebration at Presidio San AgustÃn del Tucson, featuring traditional Mexican music and dance. Throughout the year, visitors can explore miles of desert hiking trails, historic landmarks like the 250-year-old San Xavier del Bac—known as the White Dove of the Desert—and enjoy Tucson’s growing reputation as a sustainability leader, with the city set to receive a Sustainability Index Award from the Global Destination Sustainability Movement (GDS).
Beyond its historic buildings, Tucson’s agricultural heritage runs even deeper. The region’s soil is the oldest continuously cultivated land in the US, farmed for over 4,000 years by the ancestors of the Tohono O'odham people. Many of their traditional crops—squashes, beans, and corn—have blended over centuries with Mexican and Indigenous flavors, shaping Tucson’s vibrant culinary scene.
Visitors can immerse themselves in this unique food culture at gastronomy-certified restaurants or the Heirloom Farmers Markets, where local ingredients like chiltepin chilis, nopales (edible cacti), and prickly pear take center stage.
With its deep historical roots, thriving food culture, and commitment to sustainability, Tucson in 2025 is a destination that offers both authenticity and innovation—a place where the past and future come together in a uniquely Southwestern experience.
As travel continues to evolve, 2025 offers a unique opportunity to explore destinations that not only welcome visitors but also prioritize sustainability, cultural heritage, and community well-being. From the untouched Arctic landscapes of Greenland to the historic streets of Tucson, Arizona, and the awe-inspiring Dolomites in Italy, this year's top travel spots offer more than just breathtaking scenery—they invite travelers to engage thoughtfully and responsibly.
Whether it's swimming alongside sperm whales in Dominica, discovering ancient Norse settlements in Newfoundland and Labrador, or savoring Indigenous flavors in Tucson, each of these destinations provides an experience that is both transformative and enriching. The increasing focus on sustainable tourism ensures that travel can be a force for good, helping to preserve the environment, support local economies, and celebrate diverse cultures.
As you plan your next journey, consider how your travels can contribute to something greater than just a vacation. In 2025, the world is calling—and now, more than ever, it’s ready to be explored with purpose.