Travel in 2025 is undergoing a transformation driven by changing traveler values, rapid technological innovation, and a growing focus on sustainability. Today’s globetrotters are no longer satisfied with simply seeing new destinations – they want to live them. Trips are more personalized, immersive, and eco-conscious than ever. Here are ten trends shaping how we will explore the world this year.

1. AI-Powered Trip Planning

Artificial intelligence has become a game-changer in the travel industry. Instead of manually researching destinations, flights, and hotels, travelers are using AI-based apps and platforms to craft itineraries that perfectly fit their preferences, budget, and schedule. AI tools can now recommend hidden gems, predict crowds, and even adjust plans in real-time based on weather or local events. For busy travelers, this means seamless journeys that feel tailor-made without hours of preparation.

2. Sustainable and Low-Impact Travel

Eco-friendly travel is no longer a niche – it’s an expectation. Travelers are choosing destinations and services that prioritize the environment. From staying in solar-powered hotels to taking trains instead of short-haul flights, eco-conscious decisions are reshaping tourism. Protected nature reserves, low-emission transportation, and carbon offset programs are becoming essential for destinations aiming to attract the new generation of responsible travelers. Many are even willing to pay more for trips that minimize their ecological footprint.

3. Experience-First Vacations

Modern travelers are moving beyond the “checklist” mentality. Instead of racing through landmarks, they want to immerse themselves in local life. Experiences like cooking regional dishes with local chefs, joining art workshops, or participating in community-led tours are more appealing than passive sightseeing. In 2025, the focus is on creating memories rather than just collecting photos. A single cooking class or cultural festival can become the highlight of a trip.

4. Work and Travel Lifestyles

Remote work continues to influence travel behavior. Digital nomads, once a fringe community, are now mainstream. Countries like Portugal, Thailand, and Costa Rica are offering extended-stay visas for remote workers, while cities are adapting with coworking cafés and nomad-friendly infrastructure. This trend allows travelers to stay longer, explore slower, and contribute economically to local communities, all while keeping their careers on track.

5. Luxury Meets Personalization

Luxury travel in 2025 is defined by bespoke experiences rather than traditional opulence. Travelers are prioritizing privacy, personalization, and authenticity. Think private island getaways, exclusive winery tours, and curated wellness retreats that focus on personal transformation rather than just indulgence. Even five-star hotels are focusing on crafting experiences unique to each guest rather than standard luxury offerings.

6. Rise of Secondary Cities

Overcrowded tourist hotspots are prompting travelers to look for alternatives. Instead of Paris or Rome, travelers are exploring Bordeaux or Bologna, where they can enjoy authentic culture without the crowds. Airlines and rail networks are increasingly connecting these secondary cities, making them more accessible. This trend not only spreads tourism income but also gives travelers a richer sense of discovery.

7. Adventure and Wellness Fusion

Adventure travel and wellness experiences are blending in exciting ways. Hiking trips now include yoga sessions, scuba diving trips are paired with spa retreats, and cycling tours through scenic landscapes end with mindfulness workshops. This hybrid approach caters to travelers seeking both thrill and self-care, reflecting a growing desire to return from a vacation healthier and more energized than when they left.

8. Culinary Travel and Local Food Experiences

Food has always been central to travel, but in 2025, culinary exploration is a primary motivation for choosing destinations. Travelers are signing up for food tours, visiting local markets, and booking farm-to-table dining experiences. Immersive options like truffle hunting in Italy or street food tours in Bangkok allow visitors to connect with a culture through its flavors and traditions.

9. Technology-Enhanced Journeys

The integration of technology is making travel smoother than ever. From biometric check-ins at airports to AR-powered city tours, the journey is becoming as seamless as the destination experience. Smart luggage tracks itself, translation apps break down language barriers instantly, and virtual reality previews help travelers choose where to go next. These innovations are reducing stress and opening new opportunities for exploration.

10. Multi-Generational and Group Travel

Travel is increasingly about connection. Families and friends are traveling together in larger groups, planning multi-generational trips or reunion vacations. Villas, cruise cabins, and eco-lodges designed for groups are in high demand. These trips create shared memories and often focus on experiences everyone can enjoy, from guided nature walks to private cultural tours.

As 2025 unfolds, these ten trends show how travel continues to evolve toward personalization, sustainability, and meaningful connection. Whether you’re planning a solo escape, a family reunion, or a digital nomad adventure, the future of travel is about going deeper, living local, and creating unforgettable experiences.

Slovenia is joining a growing list of European countries opening their doors to remote workers. The government has confirmed plans to launch a dedicated digital nomad visa later this year, aimed at attracting professionals who work online and want to base themselves in one of Europe’s most picturesque and sustainable destinations.

While an exact launch date has yet to be announced, Slovenia’s Ministry of the Interior has indicated that the visa will be available by the end of 2025. The digital nomad visa will offer a legal pathway for non-EU remote workers to stay in the country for up to one year, with the possibility of extension.

Eligibility, Requirements & Application Process

To qualify for Slovenia’s digital nomad visa, applicants must be non-EU citizens who work remotely for a company registered outside of Slovenia, or are self-employed in an online-based business. Proof of sufficient income – around €2,600 per month – is required, along with valid health insurance and a clean criminal record.

Applicants will be able to apply either through a Slovenian embassy in their home country or directly within Slovenia. According to preliminary guidance, visa holders will also be allowed to bring immediate family members with them, though additional documentation will be needed.

A New Hub for Remote Workers in Europe

Slovenia’s entry into the digital nomad visa space reflects the country’s growing appeal as a lifestyle destination. Known for its green credentials, low cost of living, high-quality healthcare, and excellent digital infrastructure, Slovenia offers the perfect balance of work and leisure for remote professionals.

With popular destinations like Ljubljana, Bled, and Piran offering fast internet, co-working spaces, and a relaxed pace of life, Slovenia is positioning itself as a new contender in Europe’s competitive remote work scene. For digital nomads craving nature, mountains, lakes, and proximity to both Central and Southern Europe, Slovenia may soon become the next go-to base.

Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez are set to marry in Venice in late June 2025, hosting a lavish, star-studded celebration on the islands of San Giorgio Maggiore and possibly Scuola Grande della Misericordia. The couple have secured around 200 guests, including celebrities like Oprah Winfrey and Katy Perry, and are reportedly utilising high-end venues and superyachts for the festivities.

From the outset, however, the event has provoked a wave of resistance from Venetian activists. Protesters under the slogan “No Space for Bezos” have hung banners from key sites including Rialto Bridge and the bell tower of San Giorgio Maggiore.

More than symbolic gestures, they plan waterborne demonstrations to block guest arrivals in canals and alleyways. Their argument: using Venice as “a private ballroom” for the ultra-rich symbolizes deeper issues of commercialization, inflated living costs, and displacement of residents exacerbated by overtourism.

A City Caught Between Luxury and Livability

Venice is grappling with dramatic population decline—now at around 50,000—and record tourist volumes, often exceeding 4–5 million annual visitors. The influx of superyachts, upscale events, and short-term rentals has pushed living costs and rent higher, threatening the city’s cultural fabric and housing accessibility. Protesters argue that the Bezos wedding crystallises this trend—commercial displays and elite privileges, they say, have overshadowed local needs.

Yet not everyone opposes the wedding. Mayor Luigi Brugnaro and regional officials welcome the event, citing economic benefits for gondoliers, florists, hotels, and tourists—highlighting a delicate balance between heritage protection and financial gains. Organisers have pledged to minimise disruption, using 80 percent local vendors and donating to charities, while water taxi usage is said to be managed to avoid monopolisation.

What the Protests Reveal

The backlash underscores a cultural reckoning over who Venice is for. Activists argue this isn’t about the wedding per se, but about reclaiming civic space from commercialization and ensuring the city remains lived-in, not a spectacle.

Quotes like “Bezos arrogantly believes he can take over the city” and “Venice is now just an asset” reflect a growing sentiment that the city needs genuine constraints on tourism and high-end events.

Whether the protests disrupt the planned celebrations or prompt policy change, the conflict over the Bezos wedding highlights a broader urban challenge: preserving the soul of Venice amid waves of luxury tourism. The question remains—can a UNESCO‑listed city retain its essence while playing host to the world’s elite?

The American Automobile Association (AAA) forecasts a record-breaking 72.2 million Americans will travel over the week of July 4th this year—marking the highest number ever recorded for the holiday. The travel window, defined as Saturday, June 29 through Sunday, July 7, reflects a 5% increase over last year’s numbers and surpasses pre-pandemic levels for the first time.

Travel demand is being driven by robust consumer confidence, easing fuel prices, and improved airline operations. AAA notes that nearly 86% of these travellers—about 65.5 million people—will take to the roads, while air travel will also hit new heights, with 5.7 million flying over the holiday period.

This year’s extended weekend and the midweek timing of Independence Day allow more flexibility for vacation planning, prompting Americans to stretch their celebrations into a full week of travel.

Strong Travel Trends Across All Modes of Transport

Road trips remain the most popular option, buoyed by average national gas prices staying below $3.50 per gallon—a welcome relief for families and long-distance travellers. Major urban hubs such as Orlando, Seattle, Chicago, and Las Vegas are expected to be among the top destinations, with peak traffic projected during the afternoon and early evening hours of July 3 and July 7.

Airports are preparing for a surge, with domestic flight bookings up 7% from 2024. AAA’s data shows that airfare is 2% lower on average this year, largely due to expanded capacity from major carriers and stabilised fuel costs. Airports such as Atlanta, Denver, and Los Angeles anticipate their busiest Independence Day on record, while TSA screening volumes continue to set daily records.

In addition to cars and planes, approximately 4.6 million travellers will rely on alternative modes like buses, cruises, and trains—a 9% increase from last year, reflecting renewed interest in multi-modal journeys and scenic routes.

What Travellers Should Expect Over the Holiday Week

Travellers should be prepared for longer wait times, higher occupancy rates at hotels and resorts, and increased pricing on last-minute bookings. AAA recommends that those driving plan routes in advance, avoid peak departure times, and check local traffic advisories.

On the aviation side, July 3 is expected to be the busiest day for outbound flights, while July 7 will see the heaviest return travel. AAA urges travellers to arrive at airports at least two hours early for domestic flights and three hours early for international departures.

As Americans prepare to celebrate the nation’s birthday, 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year for domestic travel. Whether by car, plane, or rail, more people than ever are embracing the spirit of independence on the move.

Every year, the Economist Intelligence Unit evaluates the quality of life in cities across the globe. In 2025, their Global Liveability Index ranked 173 cities using metrics like stability, healthcare, education, culture, and infrastructure. While many of the world’s most liveable cities remain familiar, this year brought a new name to the top of the list.

Here’s a look at the 10 most liveable cities in the world in 2025.

1. Copenhagen, Denmark

Overall Score: 98.0
For the first time, Denmark’s capital claims the number one spot. With perfect scores in stability, education, and infrastructure, Copenhagen blends Scandinavian elegance with real-world efficiency. Locals cycle to work along tree-lined canals, families enjoy free higher education, and everyone benefits from clean energy and low crime rates. It’s not just liveable — it’s exemplary.

2. Vienna, Austria (tie)

Overall Score: 97.8
Long the reigning champion, Vienna slips just slightly to second place. Still, the city remains a cultural jewel, with a thriving arts scene, imperial charm, and pristine public transport. Its high quality of life is rooted in history and bolstered by innovation.

2. Zurich, Switzerland (tie)

Overall Score: 97.8
Sharing the runner-up position, Zurich impresses with its lakeside tranquillity and Alpine precision. The Swiss financial hub excels in safety, education, and green spaces, consistently ranking as a high performer in liveability rankings.

4. Melbourne, Australia

Overall Score: 97.7
Melbourne’s coffee culture, creative energy, and strong healthcare system make it the most liveable city in the Southern Hemisphere. The city continues to climb back to the top after pandemic-era dips in ranking.

5. Geneva, Switzerland

Overall Score: 97.5
Nestled between lake and mountains, Geneva scores high for political stability, healthcare, and internationalism. As home to global organisations and luxury living, it offers a uniquely cosmopolitan lifestyle.

6. Sydney, Australia

Overall Score: 97.5
Australia’s harbour city maintains its spot in the top 10, thanks to world-class healthcare, beautiful beaches, and a multicultural population. Though housing costs remain high, the lifestyle remains enviable.

7. Osaka, Japan (tie)

Overall Score: 96.9
Osaka ranks as Asia’s most liveable city, combining safety, exceptional cuisine, and efficient public services. A vibrant contrast to Tokyo’s pace, Osaka is increasingly popular among expats.

7. Auckland, New Zealand (tie)

Overall Score: 96.9
Auckland’s comeback continues, boosted by clean air, outdoor access, and a laid-back urban vibe. Though small in scale, it punches above its weight in lifestyle satisfaction.

9. Adelaide, Australia

Overall Score: 96.8
Adelaide shines with affordability, festivals, and food. A quiet achiever on this list, it remains one of the best cities in Australia for balance between city life and nature.

10. Vancouver, Canada

Overall Score: 96.3
Rounding out the top 10, Vancouver offers urban vibrancy and mountain-backed serenity. It’s a magnet for outdoor lovers and tech talent alike — a true west coast gem.

Why These Cities Are More Than Just Liveable

This year’s rankings reinforce the idea that liveability isn’t just about size or fame — it’s about thoughtful urban planning, equitable access to services, and a sense of well-being. Whether it’s Copenhagen’s eco-conscious charm or Melbourne’s creative pulse, the world’s most liveable cities in 2025 each offer a compelling blueprint for a life well lived. As urban centres worldwide strive to adapt to a rapidly changing world, these top performers set the gold standard for the future of city living.

As the U.S. presidential election draws nearer, Donald Trump’s campaign is reportedly considering a dramatic expansion of the controversial U.S. travel ban. According to multiple reports citing internal memos and campaign sources, a second Trump administration could impose travel restrictions on as many as 36 additional countries, citing national security and immigration control as primary justifications.

Trump’s original travel ban during his presidency targeted several Muslim-majority nations, sparking widespread legal challenges and global condemnation. The proposed new list, however, casts a wider net — extending beyond the Middle East and including countries from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and even parts of Eastern Europe.

Wider Global Reach and Political Tensions

If enacted, the new ban would impact travellers and visa applicants from a diverse range of nations, many of which maintain significant diplomatic and economic ties with the United States.

Among the countries reportedly under consideration are: Algeria, Angola, Belarus, Bolivia, Cambodia, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Colombia, Congo, Cuba, Democratic Republic of Congo, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Eswatini, Haiti, Honduras, Iran, Iraq, Laos, Lebanon, Libya, Mali, Nicaragua, North Korea, Pakistan, Philippines, Russia, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, Yemen, and Zimbabwe.

The proposal appears rooted in longstanding right-wing priorities: tightening border security, reducing immigration, and enhancing domestic surveillance. Sources familiar with the Trump campaign’s national security platform say the goal is to restrict entry from nations perceived to pose higher risks due to instability, weak intelligence cooperation, or anti-U.S. sentiment.

Impact on Travel, Diplomacy, and Civil Rights

The potential expansion is already drawing concern from human rights advocates, the travel industry, and legal experts. Critics argue that such a broad ban could undermine America’s standing as a global destination and spark retaliatory measures. Tourism boards, airlines, and international organisations are expected to monitor the policy’s development closely, should Trump win a second term.

The Biden administration had rolled back many of Trump’s earlier immigration policies, including dismantling parts of the original travel ban. A revived and expanded version would represent one of the starkest reversals in U.S. foreign and immigration policy in decades, potentially straining relations with dozens of nations and affecting millions of travellers.

Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa, a storied country estate near Bath, will officially join Accor’s new Emblems Collection in the fourth quarter of 2025, and will serve as its very first flagship property, according to the company’s press release.

Written into the “Heritage” pillar of the brand, Lucknam Park exemplifies Emblems’ vision of quiet luxury: intimate scale, meticulous design, and personalised service in a truly character-rich destination.

Located just six miles from the UNESCO-listed city of Bath and set within 500 acres of parkland, the hotel features 42 individually designed rooms, nine private cottages, a Michelin-starred restaurant, award-winning spa, and equestrian centre.

Chloe Laskaridis, a member of the owning family, emphasised the importance of preserving heritage while embracing global reach, stating the partnership will bring Lucknam Park “to a wider, global audience” without sacrificing its independence.

Heritage Meets Contemporary Elegance

Accor’s Emblems Collection, launched in 2021, targets boutique luxury properties with deep sense of place and residential charisma. Emblems CEO Maud Bailly describes the brand as “quiet luxury,” emphasising space, privacy, and sensory-rich environments catering to aesthetic travellers.

The brand requires properties to fit one of three pillars—heritage, design, or wellness—with strict criteria for storytelling, scale, and design. Lucknam Park fits squarely within the heritage pillar and will undergo thoughtful enhancements to meet Emblems’ standards while preserving its unique charm.

Xavier Grange, Emblems’ chief development officer, noted that with Lucknam Park’s inclusion, Emblems now has ten signed properties and aims to reach fifteen by the end of 2025. Upcoming openings include a mountain eco-retreat near Athens and a revamp of the Hotel Bellevue Cortina d’Ampezzo in Italy.

A Landmark in Luxury Hospitality

By becoming the first UK property under Emblems, Lucknam Park sets the tone for Accor’s global foray into luxury-plus hospitality. Guests can expect a sanctuary-like experience, combining Michelin-level dining, spacious suites and cottages, bespoke experiences like falconry and equestrian activities, and an immersive connection to the pastoral surroundings.

As a new model of elevated boutique hospitality, the Emblems debut exemplifies a shift toward curated intimacy and timeless design—an antidote to loud luxury. Lucknam Park will lead this journey, shaping what many hope will become a distinguished collection of character-led sanctuaries around the world.