What's big for 2025?
There’s no denying that a significant portion of Canadians will always be looking to escape the cold, especially in the thick of winter. However, for 2025, a growing number of travellers are looking for cool escapes with destinations like Antarctica and Iceland continuing to appeal to clients. To find out more about what’s hot — and cool — for 2025 travel, Travel Courier caught up with travel advisors from across the country to find out their top picks for notable bookings.
Getting off the beaten path in SRI LANKA
“I have noticed for 2025 clients are asking about off-the-beaten-path destinations. One that seems more popular than ever before is Sri Lanka. I have a few different bookings with clients going there in 2025, previous years would go by without anyone asking about it. I think it is becoming sought after as there are a variety of different types of sights and experiences you can do in a small amount of time. The country is quite a bit smaller than its neighbour India, with a drastically smaller population.”
Amanda Morrison, South Travel, Calgary, Alta.
ICE, ICE BABY! Iceland and cools escapes are trending
“Two trending locations I’m hearing more people talk about are Iceland and Antarctica. I think Antarctica is gaining a lot of steam with new product offerings from various suppliers. It’s such a hard destination to get to and the mystery of it makes it something exciting to look forward to.”
Sean Mills, Revolution Travel, Milton, Ont.
“As for a noteworthy or interesting destination for 2025, I would say Iceland and the British Isles. So excited to see Virgin Voyages continues to add exciting locations to its European sailings and visiting Iceland or the British Isles this summer should be on everyone’s bucket list. Great locations and really competitively priced as well.
Matt Houtby, Vacations for Canadians
“I’d say it’s hard to pick just one because there are so many noteworthy destinations that are peaking people’s interests for a variety of reasons. I think Iceland will continue to gain popularity for 2025 for travellers who want to explore and bask in its beauty.”
Lisa Dunne, Treasured Moments Travel
From on-screen to in-person, Greece and Croatia are hot
“In 2025 we are seeing a lot of interest for Greece and Croatia. I think Greece being the more well-known bucket list destination for many people remains a top destination but we are seeing a growing interest for Croatia. With popular TV series like Below Deck and Game of Thrones, and movies like Star Wars: The Last Jedi choosing Croatia as their backdrop, many people are wanting to go see those incredibly beautiful coastlines for themselves and have that more unique experience. Croatia is rich in history, great food and wine, fairly easy to get to by air or sea, and you can easily pair this destination with Greece or Italy.”
Claire Banman, South East Travel, Chilliwack, BC.
Italy, Portugal and European river cruises are in style
“I think Italy will enjoy a busy year with the Jubilee. I have already had more than a few requests for Italy 2025 travel including clients who will get married there this year surrounded by family and friends from Canada. I feel that Portugal may also be a hot destination, and I am hopeful that extends to the Azores, which is so beautiful with so much to offer. Virtually any river cruise in Europe in 2025, early demand is very promising.”
Mike Allard, Mallard Travel, Sudbury
The usual suspects
“For beach lovers, Antigua I think will see even higher record-breaking numbers for 2025, because in Antigua ‘the beach is just the beginning!’”
Lisa Dunne, Treasured Moments Travel
“If 2024 was any indication, I expect demand for a Caribbean or Mexico Christmas or holiday travel to be higher than ever in 2025 so I recommend booking at least six months out for best prices.”
Mike Allard, Mallard Travel, Sudbury
