For someone whose job is seeking out the new and notable in travel, 2025 was a year when the old guard came out on top. Why? Hotel prices remained sky-high, leading us to look for places delivering maximum value. Established hotels often have deeper ties to their destinations, making them more solid conduits for local experiences so long as they aren't resting on their laurels. They've also had time to figure out how guests move through their space, what they want from their experience and how best to deliver.
It's no secret by now that Iceland is one of the world's greatest destinations. First-time visitors drive jaws agape around the ring road, marvelling at the primal landscapes being moulded in front of their eyes, ancient to us but younger than most other countries on Earth. Repeat visitors delve into the hidden corners of the country, immersing themselves in the small towns that cling to precarious coastlines, undertaking epic multi-day treks, and discovering that every fjord, valley, and mountain heath holds something wonderous.
Most famous as the hometown of Shakespeare's tragic couple Romeo and Juliet, Verona isn't typically one of the first cities in Italy that tourists visit, but it's definitely worth a trip. Located in the northern Italian region of Veneto, Verona is less than 90 minutes from Venice or Milan via high-speed train. It's also within striking distance of Lake Garda, making it a great stop on a trip through northern Italy.
Kyoto's hotel scene has moved far beyond the traditional ryokan-versus-business-hotel divide. A wave of boutique openings and international entries has expanded the spectrum in recent years, making it easier than ever for travelers to find stays that balance convenience, style, and affordability. If you're on the hunt for something that won't break the bank, there are plenty of options that range from no-frills hideaways to borderline luxury retreats that deliver remarkable value, all for rates starting at under $300 a night.
With a nickname like the Queen City, it's no surprise that Charlotte (named for Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz) is a powerhouse among the Southeast's cities, on par with Atlanta. It's the most populous city in North Carolina, and its location at the state line draws day trippers and weekenders from South Carolina, too. A prosperous banking and finance industry drove the city's modern evolution into this shiny cosmopolitan center, and you'll find many of the world's leading hotel brands here.
The city offers endless options, and while that's part of the magic, it can also make choosing your home base a little tricky. Each neighborhood offers something different-some are better for sightseeing, others for nightlife, and some are just perfect for soaking up that authentic NYC feel. The good news? There's no wrong choice, as long as it suits your travel style.
Choosing where to stay in Chiang Mai can feel overwhelming, especially with so many neighborhoods offering their unique charm. While the Old City is the historic heart, there's much more to explore-think bustling markets, café-lined streets, tranquil riverside escapes, and leafy residential areas with a more local vibe. Each neighborhood has its own personality, from energetic and vibrant to peaceful and secluded, and the one you pick can really shape your trip.
Osaka radiates an energy that's distinctly its own-part bustling metropolis, part creative hub, part cultural crossroads. Beyond its legendary culinary reputation, the city has evolved into a destination for world-class cocktails, cutting-edge design, and thriving arts.
Napa Valley, known for its picturesque landscapes and over 1,500 wineries, offers culinary experiences and a variety of accommodations, making it a top travel destination.
When you picture Provence, you probably imagine rolling hills and a verdant, vineyard-tracked countryside. But the glamorous beach spots of Côte d'Azur, peppered with striped parasols, are also part of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region.
%20(1)%20(1).jpg)
