As travel agents, staying ahead of the curve is essential, especially when it comes to recommending destinations that will excite your clients.
With 2025 just around the corner, Booking.com has curated a list of 10 unexpected destinations that promise to offer unique experiences and unforgettable adventures. These hidden gems are not just off the beaten path; they’re poised to become the next big thing in travel, blending culture, natural beauty, and local charm.
Imagine your clients exploring the vibrant streets of a lesser-known city or relaxing on a pristine beach that the masses haven’t yet discovered. These destinations provide the perfect opportunity for travellers to immerse themselves in new cultures and create lasting memories away from the typical tourist traps.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into these exciting locations, providing you with fresh ideas to inspire your clients’ next getaway.
The top 10 trending destinations for 2025, according to Booking.com
- João Pessoa, Brazil
- Tromsø, Norway
- Sanya, China
- Trieste, Italy
- San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
- Houston, USA
- Naha, Okinawa, Japan
- Villajoyosa, Spain
- Tignes, France
- Willemstad, Curaçao
João Pessoa, Brazil
A port city in northeastern Brazil, João Pessoa is the capital of Paraíba state. It boasts beautiful beaches like Tambau and Cabo Branco, and is known for its historic center. The city is home to the Estação Ciência, Cultura e Artes, designed by Oscar Niemeyer, and is recognized by UNESCO as a “Creative City” for its handicrafts.
Top Activities
- Visit Historic Sites: Suggest your clients to explore the Centro Histórico, featuring colonial architecture and landmarks like the São Francisco Cultural Center.
- Beach Time: Your clients can relax on Cabo Branco and Tambau beaches, perfect for sunbathing and water sports.
- Cultural Experiences: Invite your clients to attend local festivals or visit artisan markets to experience the vibrant culture.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit is from September to March when the weather is warm and dry.
Travel Tips
- Local Guides: Recommend hiring local guides for personalized tours and insights into the city’s history and culture.
- Cuisine: Encourage clients to try local dishes such as feijoada and tapioca at traditional restaurants.
- Transportation: Suggest using public transport or renting bikes to explore the city comfortably.
Tromsø, Norway
Located in Northern Norway, Tromsø is famous for Northern Lights viewing and the Midnight Sun phenomenon. The city offers attractions like the Arctic Cathedral, the Polar Museum, and excellent whale-watching opportunities.
Top Activities
- Northern Lights Tours: Recommend booking guided tours that chase the Aurora Borealis for an unforgettable experience.
- Outdoor Adventures: Suggest activities like dog sledding, snowshoeing, or hiking during the summer months.
- Cultural Insights: Visit the Polar Museum and Arctic Cathedral for a glimpse into local history.
Best Time to Visit
For Northern Lights viewing, clients should visit between September and March; for summer activities, June to August is ideal.
Travel Tips
- Clothing: Advise clients to pack warm layers and waterproof gear due to unpredictable weather conditions.
- Local Cuisine: Encourage trying traditional dishes such as reindeer stew or fresh seafood at local restaurants.
Sanya, China
Situated on Hainan Island, Sanya is a popular beach destination. Visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches, visit the Nanshan Temple with its giant Buddha statue, and explore the Yanoda Rainforest.
Top Activities
- Beach Relaxation: Enjoy pristine beaches like Yalong Bay and Dadonghai Beach.
- Cultural Visits: Explore Nanshan Temple and its impressive statue of Buddha.
- Water Sports: Participate in snorkeling or diving at Wuzhizhou Island.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal visiting period is from November to April when temperatures are warm and rainfall is minimal.
Travel Tips
- Accommodation Recommendations: Advice booking beachfront hotels early during peak seasons.
- Local Cuisine: Encourage trying Hainanese chicken rice at local eateries.
- Night Markets: Suggest visiting night markets for unique crafts and street food experiences.
Trieste, Italy
This coastal city in northeastern Italy is known for its coffee culture and the impressive Piazza Unità d’Italia, Europe’s largest seaside square. Trieste offers a mix of Italian, Slavic, and Austrian influences.
Top Activities
- Piazza Unità d’Italia: Visit Europe’s largest seaside square surrounded by stunning architecture.
- Miramare Castle: Explore this beautiful castle set on a cliff overlooking the sea.
- Coffee Culture: Experience Trieste’s famous coffee culture by visiting historic cafés.
Best Time to Visit
April to October provides pleasant weather for exploring outdoor attractions.
Travel Tips
- Culinary Experiences: Suggest clients try local specialties at Osmiza taverns for authentic cuisine.
- Public Transport: Recommend using public transportation or walking tours to explore the city’s hidden gems.
- Day Trips: Encourage day trips to nearby Slovenia or Croatia for additional cultural experiences.
San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
Located in the Atacama Desert, this town is a gateway to incredible natural wonders. Visitors can explore the Moon Valley, float in Laguna Cejar, and stargaze in some of the world’s clearest skies.
Top Activities
- Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley): Explore this unique landscape that resembles another planet.
- Geysers del Tatio: Visit at sunrise to see impressive geysers erupting against a backdrop of mountains.
- Stargazing: The clear desert skies make it one of the best places in the world for stargazing.
Best Time to Visit
The best times are from December to February for warm weather or April to May/September to November for fewer crowds.
Travel Tips
- Altitude Acclimatization: Advise clients to acclimatize properly due to high altitudes (over 2,400 meters).
- Hydration: Encourage staying hydrated and using sunscreen due to high UV exposure in desert conditions.
Houston, USA
Houston is America’s fourth-largest city and a vibrant cosmopolitan destination known for its diverse culture, world-class dining, and rich history. The city boasts a thriving arts scene, numerous museums, and a variety of outdoor activities. With its blend of Southern hospitality and urban chic, Houston offers something for every traveller.
Top Activities
- Space Center Houston: A must-visit for space enthusiasts, this center provides an in-depth look at NASA’s space exploration efforts. Clients can explore exhibits, see real spacecraft, and even meet astronauts.
- Houston Zoo: One of the most visited zoos in the country, featuring over 6,000 animals. It’s perfect for families and animal lovers alike.
- Downtown Aquarium: An entertainment complex that includes a massive aquarium with over 500 species of exotic global residents and thrilling rides.
Best Time to Visit
The best times to visit Houston are from February to April (spring) and September to November (fall) when temperatures are mild and outdoor activities are more enjoyable.
Travel Tips
- Dining Recommendations: Houston is known for its culinary scene. Encourage clients to explore local favourites like Texas barbecue joints or international cuisine from its diverse neighbourhoods.
- Transportation: Advice using the METRORail system for easy access to major attractions. The Downtown Tunnel System is also a great way to navigate the city while avoiding the heat.
- Cultural Events: Recommend checking local calendars for events such as the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (February-March) or various art festivals throughout the year.
Naha, Okinawa, Japan
The capital of Okinawa Prefecture, Naha offers a blend of Japanese and Ryukyuan cultures. Attractions include Shurijo Castle, Kokusai Street for shopping and dining, and nearby beaches. The city is also known for its dragon boat racing event, the Naha Haari.
Top Activities
- Shurijo Castle Park: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases Okinawa’s royal history.
- Kokusai Street Shopping: Enjoy shopping and dining along this vibrant street filled with local shops.
- Beaches & Water Sports: Relax on nearby beaches or engage in snorkelling adventures.
Best Time to Visit
March through May offers pleasant weather before summer heat sets in.
Travel Tips
- Cultural Events: Recommend attending local festivals like Naha Haari (dragon boat racing) for an authentic experience.
- Transportation Options: Suggest using public transport or renting bicycles for easy exploration of Naha.
- Cuisine Exploration: Encourage trying Okinawan specialties such as soba noodles and goya champuru (bitter melon stir-fry).
Villajoyosa, Spain
Villajoyosa, also known as La Vila Joiosa, is a picturesque coastal town located in the province of Alicante on the Costa Blanca. Renowned for its vibrant, colourful houses lining the waterfront, this charming town offers a rich history, beautiful beaches, and a strong chocolate-making tradition. It’s an ideal destination for travellers looking for an authentic Spanish experience away from the more tourist-heavy areas.
Top Activities
- Explore the Old Town: Stroll through the narrow streets of Villajoyosa’s old town, characterized by its brightly painted fishermen’s houses (casas pintadas). This area is perfect for leisurely exploration and photography.
- Visit the Valor Chocolate Museum: Discover the history of chocolate in this interactive museum where clients can learn about the chocolate-making process and enjoy tastings.
- Relax on Playa Centro: This main beach features golden sand and clear waters, making it perfect for sunbathing and swimming. It’s a family-friendly spot with nearby amenities.
- Cultural Sites: Visit historical landmarks like the Iglesia de la Asunción and the remains of the 16th-century defensive walls. Don’t miss the Vilamuseu for insights into local history.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Villajoyosa is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when temperatures are pleasant and crowds are smaller. The summer months can be hot but are ideal for beach activities.
Travel Tips
- Local Cuisine: Recommend trying traditional dishes such as “pebrereta” (a rice dish) and fresh seafood at local restaurants along the promenade.
- Transportation: Advise clients to use public transport or rent bicycles to explore the town easily. Parking can be limited in peak season.
- Cultural Festivals: Suggest visiting during the Moors and Christians festival in late July for a vibrant cultural experience featuring parades and reenactments.
Tignes, France
Tignes is a premier ski resort located in the French Alps, renowned for its exceptional snow conditions and extensive ski area, which it shares with Val d’Isère. At an altitude of 2,100 meters, Tignes offers a long ski season that typically runs from late November to early May, making it one of the most snow-reliable destinations in Europe. The resort features a mix of purpose-built villages and stunning alpine scenery, catering to skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
Top Activities
- Skiing and Snowboarding: With over 300 kilometres of pistes and a variety of terrain, Tignes is ideal for all skill levels. The Grande Motte glacier allows for summer skiing as well.
- Off-Piste Adventures: For advanced skiers, Tignes offers numerous off-piste routes. Recommend hiring a guide to explore the best spots safely.
- Apres-Ski: Enjoy vibrant après-ski options at local bars and restaurants. Popular spots include La Folie Douce for lively entertainment and Le Lac for a more relaxed atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit
- Peak Ski Season: January to February is ideal for excellent snow conditions and vibrant après-ski scenes. However, it can be crowded due to school holidays.
- Quiet Slopes: January is particularly recommended for quieter slopes and fantastic snow without long lift lines.
- Spring Skiing: March and April offer milder weather with longer days and fewer crowds, making it perfect for leisurely skiing and outdoor dining.
Travel Tips
- Ski Passes: Advise clients to purchase the Espace Killy ski pass for access to both Tignes and Val d’Isère, maximizing their skiing experience.
- Accommodation: Recommend booking accommodations in Tignes Le Lac or Tignes Val Claret for easy slope access. For a more traditional experience, suggest Tignes Les Brévières.
- Dining Recommendations: Suggest trying local Savoyard specialties such as fondue or raclette at traditional mountain restaurants.
Willemstad, Curaçao
Willemstad is the vibrant capital of Curaçao, known for its colourful colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features a unique blend of Dutch and Caribbean influences, making it a picturesque destination for travellers. With its lively waterfront, historic neighbourhoods, and beautiful beaches, Willemstad offers a diverse range of activities for visitors.
Top Activities
- Explore the Historic Districts: Stroll through Punda and Otrobanda, the two main historic neighbourhoods separated by Sint Anna Bay. Clients can admire the iconic pastel-coloured buildings along Handelskade and visit local shops and cafés.
- Queen Emma Bridge: Walk across this famous floating bridge that connects Punda and Otrobanda. It’s a great spot for photos and offers scenic views of the harbour.
- Curaçao Sea Aquarium: A unique aquarium that provides interactive experiences with marine life. Clients can enjoy dolphin shows and learn about local marine ecosystems.
- Fort Amsterdam: Visit this historic fort built in 1635, which now houses government offices and a Protestant church. The fort offers panoramic views of the harbour.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Willemstad is from December to April when the weather is warm and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach relaxation. The island experiences less rainfall during these months, providing perfect conditions for exploring.
Travel Tips
- Local Cuisine: Recommend trying local dishes such as “keshi yena” (stuffed cheese) and fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants like Bijblauw or Mundo Bizzarro.
- Transportation: Advise clients to explore Willemstad on foot as many attractions are within walking distance. For further excursions, renting a car or using local taxis can be convenient.
- Cultural Events: Suggest checking local calendars for events like Carnival in February or various music festivals throughout the year for an authentic cultural experience.
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