The most buzzworthy destinations of 2025, according to Canadian travel advisors

New year, new opportunities to see the world.

If the numerous trend reports that crossed PAX’s news desk at the tail end of 2024 mean anything, the year 2025 should be full of exciting travel experiences, blending adventure, culture, and a desire to connect with destinations in meaningful ways.

Whether your clients are thrill-seekers, culture enthusiasts, or luxury travellers, the future of travel has something special in store. But which destinations are capturing the spotlight?

To kick off the new year, PAX asked Canadian travel advisors to share what they think are the most “buzzworthy” destinations – places that are generating the most excitement and conversation within their professional and client circles for 2025 – and the responses we received paint a diverse picture.

Which destinations are (so far) making the biggest buzz? Here’s what travel professionals had to say!

Faith Sproule – Niche Travel Group

Most buzzworthy destination? Vietnam and Cambodia (on a river cruise)

Vietnam and Cambodia are “stealing the spotlight for 2025,” says Faith Sproule of Niche Travel Group, noting how these two destinations offer “an incredible mix of culture, history, and stunning scenery.”

“A river cruise along the Mekong is the ultimate way to explore lush riverbanks, floating markets, and charming villages,” Sproule says. “On board a ship, you’ll enjoy delicious local food, live cultural performances, and stylish luxury accommodations.”

“You’ll get to visit iconic spots like the breathtaking Angkor Wat and the peaceful pagodas of Phnom Penh. Along the way, meet locals, shop vibrant markets, and see artisans at work. Optional excursions take you even deeper into the rich history and traditions of the region.”

Sproule adds that this trip “has been a hot pick—so much so that we’ve already booked several mini-groups for 2025 and 2026.”

“If you’re looking for a unique, unforgettable getaway, this one’s calling your name!”

Pat Probert and Mary de Almeida – The Bob Family Travel Team at TravelOnly

Most buzzworthy destination? Portugal

“Portugal is a very hot destination for the Bob Family Travel Team at TravelOnly,” says Pat Probert. “Clients are looking for safer countries that have great value and Portugal certainly offers this along with fine wines and food options.”

More clients have been requesting the Douro River to do an all-inclusive trip, says Probert, who’s gearing up to host a group cruise in Portugal with Uniworld.

“With Uniworld, it is always included – and we’re adding in pre and post tours for our clients so they can go earlier and stay longer,” Probert says.

Mary de Almeida, manager of Bob Family Travel Team, was born in Portugal and moved to Canada at a young age – “but has gone back many times over the years to visit family and is excited to escort so many of the ‘Bobs’ to the country she was born in,” Probert says.

“She is fluent in Portuguese, so she can be the expert guide along with the hired tour guides,” he says, adding that Portugal has “so much to offer” with its coastline, people, diversity, food, comfortable weather and history.

Darci Murray – Personal Travel Management/founder of HOOKED-Alcohol Free Travel

Most buzzworthy destination? The Maldives

The Maldives has always been known for its amazing beauty and luxury overwater bungalow experiences, says Darci Murray, founder of HOOKED-Alcohol Free Travel.

“But with global warming, they expect 80 per cent of the Maldives to be uninhabitable by 2050,” she says. “With a deteriorating existence in its forecast, clients are prioritizing a trip to the Maldives to indulge in its beauty before it’s too late.”

“It sounds crazy but luxury hotels are still being built as they see the increase in visitors and want to meet the traveller’s demands.”

Louie Di Tacchio – Progress Travel Services Inc.

Most buzzworthy destination? Italy

Italy, particularly the Amalfi Coast, “continues to be one of the hottest travel destinations for 2025,” says Louie Di Tacchio of Progress Travel Services Inc.

“With its breathtaking views, charming coastal villages, and vibrant culture, this stunning region offers a perfect blend of history, luxury, and natural beauty,” he says.

Di Tacchio says his clients are flocking to Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello, “eager to explore the colorful cliffs, azure waters, and delicious cuisine.”

“Whether it’s sailing along the coast, hiking scenic paths, or indulging in fresh seafood, the Amalfi Coast promises unforgettable experiences,” he says.

As travel demand soars, visitors are also drawn to the area’s boutique hotels, upscale resorts, and world-class dining options, he adds.

“Italy’s rich heritage, combined with its picturesque landscapes, makes the Amalfi Coast an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration. This year, more than ever, it stands as a must-visit destination on many travellers’ bucket lists.”

Catherine Davis – Zebrano Travel

Most buzzworthy destinations? New Zealand, Tasmania and Switzerland

New Zealand, Tasmania and Switzerland offer “off-the-beaten-path experiences that cater to travellers seeking exclusivity, sustainability, and immersive experiences away from the crowds,” says Catherine Davis of Zebrano Travel. “These locations avoid the overtourism of other popular destinations.”

They’re also authentic and immersive. “Our clients are drawn to meaningful, culturally-rich and nature-focused experiences,” she says.

Davis also highlights the rise in demand for “conscious travel” – destinations that prioritize sustainability and authenticity.

New Zealand, Tasmania and Switzerland deliver “understated luxury aligning with the modern traveller’s desire for meaningful, sustainable and exclusive experiences,” she says.

Laura Kelly – Elsewhere by Laura (Travel Edge)

Most buzzworthy destination? La Dolce Vita Orient Express – Italy luxury train travel

“Luxury rail travel is having a moment worldwide – and Italy is no exception,” says travel advisor Laura Kelly, who was named a Conde Nast Top Travel Specialist in 2023.

La Dolce Vita Orient Express is “an exciting new product on the market, appealing to a new generation of train travellers with its modern take on a classic journey,” she says.

“The décor channels the golden age of Italian design with a 1960s flair, with eight itineraries that travel through the most iconic regions of the Italian countryside.”

The Orient Express brand, owned by Accor, will be expanding their portfolio in 2025 with a new train that travels further, luxe hotel openings that align with the rail routes, and the world’s largest sailing ship aboard the Silenseas, which is set to launch in 2026.

“Orient Express is one to watch in the luxury travel space!” Kelly says.

Frances Gertsch – Stewart Travel Group

Most buzzworthy destinations? Japan and Portugal

Frances Gertsch of Stewart Travel Group thinks Japan is one of 2025’s most buzzworthy destinations because “it’s a place that stays with you long after you visit.”

“It’s the perfect mix of modern and traditional,” she says. “You can go from the neon streets of Tokyo to the serene temples and gardens of Kyoto in the same day, and thanks to their super-efficient public transportation, it’s seamless.”

“What stands out most for my clients is how clean, organized, and safe Japan feels. You can explore freely, even late at night, with complete peace of mind.”

And the food? “It’s incredible,” Gertsch adds. “Think the freshest sushi, comforting ramen, and pastries that are unforgettable.”  

Gertsch loves that Japan is “encouraging travellers to explore hidden gems like Ishikawa and Fukuoka, addressing overtourism while showcasing its lesser-known treasures.”

“Whether by train or an ocean cruise, Japan always delivers something unforgettable. Clients tell me it’s a place they’d return to again and again, and I can’t wait to visit in early 2026,” she says.

Gertsch also thinks Portugal is generating some big buzz. 

“Hands down, it’s one of 2025’s most buzzworthy destinations,” she says. “And its appeal is growing because it offers so many ways to explore and fall in love with the country. Whether it’s hiking the Azores’ stunning volcanic landscapes, walking the coastal route of the Camino de Santiago, or unwinding with a long stay in the Algarve, you can tailor your trip to suit your pace and interests.”

Portugal’s cities are “a huge draw,” she says.

“Lisbon and Porto are vibrant, full of history, and packed with incredible architecture and lively streets that make you want to wander for hours,” Gertsch says. “If you’re a wine lover, a river cruise through the Douro Valley is unforgettable, with breathtaking scenery and some of the best wines in the world.”

What Gertsch loves most about Portugal is how easy and welcoming it is.

“It’s compact, yet so diverse, and the food – fresh seafood, pastries, and wine – is unforgettable. My trip there this fall left me wanting more,” she says.

Gertsch lists other trends to watch in 2025 – notably, ocean cruising. “I think we’ll continue to see ocean cruising evolve, with demand for megaships remaining strong while interest in smaller, more intimate cruising experiences continues to grow,” she says.

She notes a rise in demand for slow travel. “My clients are increasingly seeking slower-paced travel with longer stays and less moving around, leading to more hub-and-spoke trips where they base themselves in one destination and focus on meaningful, in-depth experiences rather than covering more geography,” she says.

There’s also a collective desire to avoid destinations that struggle with overtourism. 

“As destinations around the world grapple with overtourism, and as travellers increasingly seek fewer crowds and more authentic experiences, I believe we’ll see a rise in emerging destinations and a boom in soft-adventure travel that allows travellers to create deeper connections with the people and places they visit,” Gertsch says.

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