So, what exactly makes a destination “hot” this year?

1. The Rise of Micro-Trends: Niche is the New Norm

Instead of following the crowd, travelers are now following themselves — and destinations that cater to hyper-specific interests are thriving. Think:

• Astrotourism: Stargazing destinations like Chile’s Atacama Desert or West Texas are trending.
• Regenerative Travel: Not just eco-friendly, but experiences that leave the place better — from coral restoration in Belize to reforestation in Costa Rica.
• Quiet Luxury: Travelers want understated elegance — think boutique mountain lodges, private island retreats, and service-first hospitality that whispers rather than shouts.

These micro-trends are helping shape the travel landscape with more depth and nuance than ever before.

2. Overlooked Regions Are Having a Moment

Travelers are looking for the next “it” place before it gets flooded with influencers and tourists. This shift has turned attention to second-tier cities, hidden coastlines, and culturally rich interiors.

• Northern Portugal instead of Lisbon.
• Yucatán’s inland towns instead of the overbuilt Riviera Maya.
• Montenegro instead of Croatia.
• Oaxaca’s coast instead of Tulum.

These destinations offer what today’s traveler craves: authenticity, affordability, and fewer crowds — without compromising experience.

3. Digital Detox & Cultural Reconnection

While Wi-Fi is still essential for many, more travelers are seeking places that encourage disconnection and deeper connection — to nature, to culture, to self.

Hot destinations are leaning into:

• Local storytelling and guided immersion.
• Heritage crafts, food, and rituals.
• Off-grid lodges and unplugged itineraries.
• Smaller, curated group travel with purpose-driven themes.

4. Authenticity Over Algorithms

In a world ruled by viral trends and curated feeds, travelers are craving realness. What makes a destination desirable in 2025 isn’t how “Instagrammable” it is — it’s how real it feels.

That means:

• Fewer filters. More folklore.
• Less fabrication. More flavor.
• Not trying to be the next Bali or Paris — just being proudly you.

Destinations that hold true to their roots while embracing thoughtful evolution will win hearts — and return visits.

How to Ride the Wave Without Losing Your Soul

Whether you’re a tourism board, resort, or small business, staying relevant in 2025 means walking the line between trendy and timeless.

Here’s how:

• Tell your story, not someone else’s.
• Elevate what’s unique — not just what sells.
• Invite travelers into your world — not just into your hotel.
• Build with your locals, not just for your visitors.

Bottom Line: Hot destinations in 2025 aren’t just “new” — they’re meaningful. Travelers want to go where they feel something. Where they return home not just with selfies, but with stories.

And that kind of desirability? It doesn’t fade with a season — it defines a legacy.

To share your story with the world, let The Hotel Guide be your vehicle. Message Edward R. Leos, publisher, at erleos@thehotelguide.com.

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“Curator Hotel & Resort Collection is committed to transcending boundaries in hospitality by crafting experiences that resonate with the diverse interests of travelers. We are dedicated to providing unparalleled opportunities to encounter the extraordinary in ways they’ve never imagined. We have recently launched more than 90 bespoke experiences on our website, which provide guests with many choices for celebrating their love,” said Jennifer Barnwell, President of Curator Hotel & Resort Collection. This Valentine’s Day, transcend traditional gifts and immerse in memory-making adventures and unforgettable experiences:
For Timeless Romantics – Inn on Fifth in Naples, FL, offers a luxury, sunset cruise to those seeking an intimate escape. Guests will board one of Hinckley’s most elegant vessels and enjoy a warm welcome. Couples can sip on champagne, savor delectable hors d’oeuvres, and embrace the moment while taking in the breathtaking coastal views of Florida. The private Sunset Cruise at the Inn on Fifth ensures an unforgettable and enchanting escape for couples searching for a timeless and romantic adventure. For Adventure-Seeking Couples – Elevate your love with a once-in-a-lifetime heli-skiing experience perfect for adrenaline enthusiasts and outdoor adventurists. Available at Newpark Resort, heli-skiing offers unparalleled off-trail, downhill skiing, or snowboarding experiences accessible only via helicopter. Couples can completely unplug as they soar above the Wasatch and Uinta Mountains with a view like none other in this unique experience.

For Pioneering Partners – Explore new heights and adventures with an intro to rock climbing class. Available at San Diego Mission Bay Resort, this unique activity offers couples a chance to bond while conquering “new heights” together. This experience provides a safe environment with a professional instructor, making it ideal for beginners and participants of all levels. Couples can leave their comfort zone and create lasting memories with their significant other.
For Oenophiles and Foodies – Embark on a romantic journey through the enchanting valleys of Mexico’s wine region with the Valle de Guadalupe Wine Tour, designed for lovers of good food, wine, and culture. This experience is available through Paradise Point Resort & Spa, located just 90 minutes away from the hotel. The all-day experience (12 hours) takes couples through a sensory adventure as they explore two to three picturesque vineyards, savoring local wine from the region. The Valle de Guadalupe Wine Tour promises an immersive experience inclusive of a charcuterie lunch, transportation, and a bilingual tour guide.

For Wellness Enthusiasts – Discover tranquility with The Edgewater’s private sound bath experience in Seattle, which provides a truly perfect retreat for wellness-seeking couples. The Silent Hum Experience invites guests to an oasis of tranquility equipped with sound-proof surroundings and acoustic resonance, inviting them to explore and revitalize their internal patterns of thought, action, and existence. This experience enhances harmony between partners by utilizing the sounds and vibrations generated by an array of healing instruments, including gongs, singing bowls, percussion, chimes, rattles, tuning forks, and the human voice, fostering a deeper connection between partners.

For the Sustainability-Conscious Couple – Take cocktail making to a new level with the experience of a unique Zero-Waste Mixology Class at 1 Hotel San Francisco, ideal for those couples looking to reduce their footprint in their everyday lives. This encounter goes beyond traditional mixology, offering participants a chance to learn the art of crafting delicious cocktails while minimizing environmental impact. The class takes them through the process of cocktail creation while utilizing locally sourced, organic ingredients and reducing waste through each ingredient. Couples can pick up new techniques and learn how to incorporate zero-proof ingredients behind the bar. The class is all about slowing down, savoring each ingredient’s versatility, and using ingredients to their full potential.

This Valentine’s Day, Curator invites you to transcend the conventional, gifting not just a moment, but a memory, a story, a journey of romance long after the day is gone. Join us in redefining romance and visit www.curatorhotelsandresorts.com.

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She is calling on the world of Italy lovers to unite after this intense period of disconnection and suffering, and express love for the bel paese via contributing a handwritten note to make history. And for one lucky person, their Italian dream is going to become a reality? Intrigued? Keep on reading!
In normal circumstances, Italy is one of the most visited countries on earth, and for good reason.
But the struggles of the past 2 years have hit hard – not only severely affecting tourism in Italy, but also weighing heavily on the hearts of the millions of people around the world who hold a deep connection to Italy and their travels there.
“We all adore Italy, it’s why millions of people are connected in thousands of Italy-focused social media groups – it’s something that gives us all a sense of the best parts of life. To watch Italy (and the world) struggle so much over the past couple of years due to the pandemic has been absolutely tragic.” Said Nikki.
“I wanted to do something inspirational, that connects us all as a global community, united in our love of this beautiful place and given the kind of work I do, helping foreign buyers purchase their own property in Italy, I also wanted to give something back that is incredibly unique and life changing”.
As a thank you for participating with Nikki in this global mission of love and positivity, she will be giving ONE lucky winner the opportunity to win their own property in Italy!
Yes you read that correctly!
Nikki has launched a special “Win a Turn Key Property in Italy” competition which involves people submitting their handwritten love letters to Italy between 15-30 words to : www.italy-propertyconsulting.com/competition to be in the chance to win a gorgeous pied-a-terre property in Ostuni, which is already a successful holiday rental and has earned up to €6,000 per year.
Nikki’s choice for Ostuni was a strategic one. Ostuni has become one of the most desired towns in Puglia, which is the most sought after region in Italy right now. Ostuni has a huge amount of international interest with the soon to open Louis Vuitton luxury masseria in 2022 along with the Four Seasons hotel.
“The person that wins this property is literally winning a little goldmine”, says Nikki, who’s speciality is searching the country for the best holiday rentals on the market for her foreign clients.
The competition closes on the 15th February 2022 @23.59 GMT+1 so get your entries submitted to be in the running to win this little piece of paradise in Italy.
You can increase your chances of winning by submitting two entries, as long as they are written differently.
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Ends Feb. 15, 2022 @ 23:59 PM GMT+1. Rules: italy-propertyconsulting.com/competition.
Imagine starting 2022 off with a bang by winning this gorgeous home AND participating in a global mission of love and positivity for a country we love and adore so much!

Article by: Nikki Taylor

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So, here are 7 ways I stay healthy & avoid weight gain during the holidays and my travel itineraries

1. Bring your own food – natural snacks, water or water bottle, fruits, nuts & healthy breakfast options. Your health journey will always need to be intentional for it to be real. Unfortunately, one work out a month or a random salad does not create or sustain the body of your dreams. I love using leftover/ uneaten fruits & veggies as airplane snacks.

2.Drink plenty of water – the number one solve for health & weight loss is drinking water. Aim for a gallon a day during the holidays and while traveling to stay feeling full & hydrated.

3. Start with healthy breakfast- avoid pastries, bagels, and bad carbs first thing in the morning. These treats are usually around more during the holidays and easy to pop in your mouth. Do your best to say no sometimes. This is true for all the time, but especially during holidays when you’re more prone to eat more complex carbs & fattier foods throughout the day. Starting with a healthy breakfast in the morning will help set your digestive system for the day and help you feel less bloated, so plan ahead. Oatmeal and nuts are easy to pack, while proteins, fruits and veggies are good to have available. And again drink plenty of water.

4. Intermittent fast – minimally 12 hours, but maybe push it to 16 for heavy meal days.

5. Move your body – opt in for a walk with the little ones (nieces, nephews & cousins). Get your steps in, and burn some calories. My mom is always one to finish her steps in front of a movie before bed. So, when we’re all relaxing, maybe watching a Christmas movie or holiday movie, she’ll start V walking in place to finish her steps for the day. I’ve done it with her and honestly, woken up with my calves and glutes sore!

6. Set some time for mindfulness. Having good health, your desires met and experiencing love in your relationships all take great intentionality. Setting time aside to breathe, worship, express thankfulness & spiritual alignment is crucial to live a balanced life. We don’t receive what we want with little commitment, no risk or sacrifice. By being intentional to pray and get centered, we have more opportunity in our day and support to push past fears or comfort zones. By practicing this sort of strength & mindfulness, we will see favor & results in key areas, where you are willing to make little changes.

7. Build your team. – no one can stay this course solo. We all need a team and minimally I’d recommend mind & body coaches, an accountability crew, educational books, and a list of podcasts/ influencers to follow for good support.

Article by Wellness Travel Editor: Wynita Yancy

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Events & Activities
Temecula Valley is Event-Full with events and activities all through the month of December. Vail Headquarters will host a Temecula Chilled Holiday Market on December 10 with family fun activities and photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus. On December 11 they will host Thistle & Sage Fa La La La Vegan Holiday Event which includes vegan eats, shopping, photos with Santa Paus, live music, crafts, and a screening of ELF. Then the Ramble On Holiday Car Show will be December 17-18 showcasing at least 20 VW automobiles.
Santa’s Electric Light Parade will light up the street on December 3. The City of Temecula will also host Chilled at the Park on December 18 at Ronald Reagan Sports Park. This event will feature magical entertainment, an ugly sweater contest, a kids zone, food vendors and a firework display at 7:45pm.
Promenade Temecula will host Taste of the Season De cember 4, Deck the Malls holiday market December 11 and Merry Little Market December 17-19.
Temecula Holiday Artesian Market – Sip & Shop will be a holiday pop-up market at Batch Mead on Dec 12.
A sparkling, festive Old Town will be full of celebrations and special holiday treats. The City of Temecula will offer ice skating December 10 through January 2. Santa visits are every weekend through December 19 at Pennypickle’s Workshop.

At Pechanga Resort Casino visitors can see a giant gin gerbread and chocolate village in the hotel lobby as well as elaborate holiday décor throughout the property. There is also a series of Chilled drinks at Blends Coffee & Wine Bar as well as Pechanga bars. Santa visits will be December 12-14.
A wine country full of chilly ice rinks and cozy inns offers a month full of things to do. Peltzer Christmas on the Farm features an ice rink, local food trucks, live music and wine. Santa’s Wine Country Workshop by Temecula Carriage Company will provide a private horse-drawn carriage to Santa’s open-air gingerbread workshop and a visit with Santa. Longshadow Christmas Gala on December 3-4 includes mulled wine, spiced cider, hot chocolate, peppermint taffy toss, live musical performances, Christmas vocal and dance performances.
Bolero at Europa Village will display a Gingerbread Village, created by Executive Chef Hany Ali and his team. Other festive events include ‘Tis The Season to Get Ugly, Karaoke Ugly Sweater Party on December 10 at Masia de la Vinya Winery. Sip, Shop & Jingle on Dec 3 at Danza del Sol where there will be holiday shopping, a food truck and live music. Somerset Winery’s Motown Christmas will be December 18. It will be a holiday tribute featuring the music of Motown, accompanied by a live band, Christmas carols and dancing.
A Yalda Celebration at Fazeli Cellars will honor the winter solstice on the longest night of the year, December 16. This Persian winery will take part in this ancient celebration with food, drinks and poetry readings.

Chilled Eats & Drinks
In Temecula Valley, they live glass full, and this time of year they live plate full. Don’t miss the Chilled Eats & Drinks available at restaurants throughout Temecula Valley. Some not to miss holiday specials are the Christmas Tree Cookie at E.A.T. Marketplace. This is a gluten-free cinnamon shortbread cookie topped with classic Italian meringue then an espresso ganache drizzle. Mad Madeline’s Grill has a Peppermint Candy Cane Shake. The Cave Café at Oak Mountain Winery will offer a caramelized apple Napoleon, puff pastry, caramelized apple, Chantilly cream with vanilla bean gelato. Oscar’s Brewing Company is offering a special drink, Sipping by the Fire, which is Cutwater Horchata Vodka, orange liqueur, pomegranate juice with crushed candy cane rim. The Goat & Vine will serve a Blueberry Pomegranate Sangria.
Stay Packages
The days are full, the nights are full, and there are plenty of cozy and luxurious rooms and suites available. If you’re not spending the night, you’re not doing the Chilled Season right.
Europa Village ‘Tis the Season Package includes an overnight stay at one of our well-appointed Inn rooms or Casitas, a welcome bottle of wine, and holiday cookie turndown service for two.
Live Glass Full lodging package is available at Bolero Casitas at Europa Village, Carter Estate Winery & Resort, Holiday Inn Express, Quality Inn, Temecula Creek Inn, SpringHill Suites by Marriott, Staybridge Suites, and The New Inn. The offer includes a $50 dining card for a two night mid-week stay booked by December 31, 2021 and stay by February 28, 2022.
A holiday getaway to Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country will be full of joy and celebration. The glass will be full, the heart even fuller. Start planning your trip at VisitTemeculaValley.com and find out more. about Temecula Chilled.

About Temecula Valley & Visit Temecula Valley
Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country is a year-round vacation destination. It is located just 60 minutes from San Diego, Orange County, and Palm Springs; 90 minutes from Los Angeles.

Visit Temecula Valley is the region’s official tourism marketing organization and resource for visitors. The Visitor Center is located in Old Town Temecula. For visitor information and assistance, please call (888) 363-2852 or go to VisitTemeculaValley.com.

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• Clarksville, TN.
• Denver, CO.
• Las Vegas, NV.
• New Orleans, LA.
• Oregon Adventure Coast
• Orlando, FL.
• Santa Fe, NM.
• Santa Monica, CA.
• Scottsdale, AZ.
• Temecula, CA.

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Dunton Town House, Telluride
Dunton Town House, Telluride
On one of Telluride’s prettiest streets, Dunton Town House is a charming bed & breakfast hotel just steps away from the gondola and main street. In keeping with the history and heritage of the former private residence and its occupants, all of the property’s five King bedrooms and en-suite bathrooms feature fine European fabrics, Tyrolean antiques, Austrian ceramics, and a mix of custom furnishings. From Dunton Town House, guests can easily explore Telluride Ski Resort and its charming eateries and local boutiques. Perfect for couples and families alike, the property’s full-time concierge and house manager can assist with anything from organizing ski passes and dinner reservations to booking heli-ski adventures or arranging snowmobiling and snowshoeing outings at nearby sister property, Dunton Hot Springs.

Epic Ski Adventures Heli-Skiing with Telluride Helitrax – For thrill-seekers, Dunton Destinations and its partner, Telluride Helitrax, provide guests with spectacular heli-skiing experiences across 200 square miles of high alpine basins, cirques and summits. Telluride Helitrax caters to intimate groups of four guests with one guide, and travel in the trusted, high-altitude Eurocopter AS350 B3e, known for its outperformance in all weather conditions. The full-day excursion includes up to six skiing runs at 10,000 to 14,000 feet, some of the highest elevations in North America. Full professional ski guide service, including state-of-the-art powder skis/snowboard, poles, avalanche transceiver and safety orientation is provided. Heli-skiing excursions are available for booking from December 26, 2021 – April,4 2022 (weather and conditions dependent). Pricing available upon request.Backcountry Ski Excursions with Private Guide – Open to skiers and snowboarders of all abilities, Dunton’s backcountry ski excursions offer the perfect alternative to heli-skiing while still providing an opportunity to experience the ultimate wilderness delight: untracked powder. For beginners, this program offers a welcoming introduction to the backcountry where participants learn from an expert guide about the basics of backcountry travel, including equipment use and analysis, route finding, travel protocols and avalanche awareness. All necessary avalanche equipment is provided on all trips, along with a complimentary digital photo service depending on availability. The full-day rate for one person is $720, or $425 per person for 2+ people. Transfers are also available for an additional cost.

Heli-skiing with Helitrax (photo by Jeff Cricco)

Dunton Hot Springs, Dolores
Located about 1.5 hours across the mountain from Telluride, Dunton Hot Springs is a restored 1800s era ghost town turned Relais & Chateaux resort featuring 12 luxury log cabins and one luxurious (and insulated) tent. The property, set in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, is known for its incredible and remote location, meticulously prepared cuisine made from seasonal and local ingredients, and of course, its namesake natural hot springs. Guests can enjoy the hot springs in several different ways throughout the property, including inside the restored 19th-century Bathhouse, under the stars at the source, in the pool outside the Bathhouse, the pool behind the Dunton Store cabin, or inside the Well House cabin. Dunton Hot Springs is thrilled to welcome guests to the brand-new Pangolin Spa this winter, which officially opened in summer 2021. The cozy spa cabin features a reimagined menu of luxurious and rejuvenating alpine-inspired treatments using all-natural products from the renowned luxury wellness brand Amala. Amala is elevated natural skincare with cutting-edge, chemical-free formulas, and each product was explicitly chosen to thrive in the mountain-desert climate. For those looking for the ultimate way to unwind after a day of outdoor adventures, enjoy a soak in the hot springs before indulging in the spa treatment of your choice. In addition to body treatments, the spa also offers complimentary group yoga and fitness classes, private nutritional counseling, and professional wellness workshops. The full Pangolin Spa menu is available here. As part of Dunton Hot Springs’ Winter Activities Program, guests can take advantage of a unique selection of complimentary half-day guided adventures. Alternatively, private à la carte activities and ski excursions are available for booking as well.

Complimentary Half-Day Guided Adventures Nordic Ski Adventures – Climb into Dunton’s very own Snow-cat and scale to 10,000 feet for an exciting day of cross-country skiing or snowshoeing on a trail laid out by former Olympic Nordic skier Wendy Wegner. Guests will enjoy hot chocolate, cider, and snacks prepared by Dunton’s culinary team to warm up.Snowshoeing – There is nothing quite like strapping on a pair of snowshoes to explore the serene winter beauty in the San Juan Mountains. After being fitted with appropriate gear by Dunton’s expert outfitter, enjoy this spectacular workout with incredible views.Winter Wonderland – Join for a day of cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating and horse-drawn sleigh rides, followed by a cozy, comfortable afternoon sipping hot chocolate by the fire at Dunton’s exclusive seasonal River Camp property.

Private À La Carte Adventures Snowmobiling – This heart-pounding snowmobile adventure is a great option for all experience levels to explore the scenic alpine beauty surrounding Dunton. Knowledgeable guides will show off some of Colorado’s most breathtaking scenery and educate guests about the area’s historical and natural wonders as you cruise at leisure. A two-hour ride is $510 per person; a minimum of 2 people is required.

Ice Climbing – Scale Dunton’s very own waterfall using ice axes, crampons, helmets, and harnesses while surrounded by the towering beauty of Colorado’s San Juan Mountains. One of the most fantastic winter adventures on offer, this excursion allows guests to experience the wilderness from a different perspective in the trusted hands of expert guides. Ice climbing outings include professional guiding/instruction never exceeding a 4:1 ratio. All technical ice climbing equipment is provided. Half-day is $600 for one person or $300 per person for 2+ people.

Cross-Country Skiing – Spend an afternoon gliding through the spectacular San Juan Mountains with no other person around except for your professional guide. Whether it’s untouched alpine meadows or freshly groomed trails you’re after, Dunton’s expansive grounds offer a variety of terrain to choose from, with over 10 kilometers of trails available to explore. Half-day is $640 for one person or $335 per person for 2+ people.

Heli-Transfer to Telluride Ski Resort – Maximize time enjoying Colorado’s famous powder with a private helicopter transfer to Telluride Ski Resort from Dunton Hot Springs. While en route, soak in the endless vistas and snow-covered valleys from above. Flight leaves at 8:30 am and returns at 3:30 pm. Rates are $1,500 for one way and $3,000 for round-trip transfer. Up to 5 passengers. Ski passes and gear may be purchased at an additional cost. To view the full list of activities available, please visit https://www.duntondestinations.com/hot-springs/experiences/ For more information about Dunton Destinations, visit www.duntondestinations.com.

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