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What Makes Destinations “Hot” in 2025?

Publisher — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 15:36:27 +0000

In 2025, destination desirability isn’t just about beaches or big cities — it’s about experiences that feel personal, purposeful, and a little off the beaten path. As travelers evolve, so do their expectations, and savvy destinations are taking note.

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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The Hotel Guide Celebrates 32 Years of Travel Excellence

Publisher — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 19:15:41 +0000

In June of 1993, a young account executive named Edward Leos stepped into the hospitality world with no contacts, no portfolio — just a relentless drive, a love for travel, and a passion for the people behind the industry.

At the time, The Hotel Guide had only released its very first issue: a humble publication focused solely on San Antonio. There were no big teams, no national reach — just the idea that travelers deserved a trusted guide to the best in hospitality, and that hoteliers deserved a platform to tell their stories.

“I didn’t have a single contact,” Edward recalls. “But I believed in the vision. I believed in relationships. And I knew the hospitality world was where I belonged.”

That belief — and a few thousand cold calls later — turned into something extraordinary.

Today, 32 years later, The Hotel Guide has grown from a single-city publication to a nationally-distributed travel media brand seen by more than 24 million travelers annually. With Edward Leos now at the helm as Publisher, The Hotel Guide includes a print and digital magazine, a strong social media presence, a creative marketing and design firm, and the expanding Travel Talk podcast, heard on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google, and Amazon Music.

What began with one issue in San Antonio has become a trusted platform showcasing the finest hotels, resorts, culinary destinations, wellness retreats, and unforgettable travel experiences across the globe.

Through it all, the mission remains the same: connect travelers with extraordinary destinations, and elevate the people and places that make hospitality shine.

Here’s to the past 32 years of grit, growth, and gratitude — and to the road ahead.
— Edward Leos & The Hotel Guide Team

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The Travel Coach Network Names The Hotel Guide as Official Media Partner

Publisher — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 08:28:49 +0000

The Travel Coach Network (TCN), home to the world’s first and only ICF-accredited Travel Coach Certification Program, is thrilled to announce The Hotel Guide as its Official Media Partner. This strategic collaboration will amplify TCN’s mission of fostering intentional and transformative travel while expanding its global reach to more travelers and coaches.

With more than 32 years of showcasing premier travel destinations, hotels, resorts, wellness retreats, and culinary spots, The Hotel Guide brings unmatched industry expertise and media reach to the partnership. Through its widely distributed travel magazine, engaging ‘Travel Talk’ podcast, and comprehensive online travel network, The Hotel Guide will help spotlight TCN’s initiatives, programs, and success stories from around the globe.

Expanding the Vision of Transformative Travel

Founded on the belief that travel can be a powerful tool for wellness, personal growth, and transformation, The Travel Coach Network offers a unique approach to the travel industry. Its ICF-accredited Travel Coach Certification Program trains and guides travel coaches worldwide, helping them bring awareness to why individuals travel, how they can travel more intentionally, and how to use travel for holistic development.

By partnering with The Hotel Guide, TCN aims to reach an even larger audience of travel enthusiasts, wellness seekers, and industry professionals. Together, the organizations will drive impactful storytelling, thought leadership, and promotional campaigns highlighting the benefits of intentional and transformative travel.

A Natural Fit: The Hotel Guide’s Media Reach and Expertise

The Hotel Guide’s longstanding presence in the travel and hospitality industry, with an audience reach of 24 million travelers annually, makes it the ideal media partner to elevate TCN’s message. Its multimedia platforms, including social, digital, and podcast content, provide dynamic avenues to feature travel coach spotlights, expert advice, and industry events.

“We are honored to welcome The Hotel Guide as our Official Media Partner,” said Sahara Rose De Vore, Founder of The Travel Coach Network. “Their proven success in promoting the best of travel experiences, combined with their commitment to meaningful storytelling, will help us showcase how travel coaching can change lives and revolutionize the travel industry.”

A Shared Commitment to Industry Growth

Both organizations share a commitment to innovation within the travel sector. As the official media partner, The Hotel Guide will collaborate with TCN to promote upcoming workshops, training sessions, and success stories from certified travel coaches. Key initiatives will be featured across The Hotel Guide’s platforms, enhancing visibility and engagement within the global travel community.

“At The Hotel Guide, we believe that travel is more than a destination- it’s an experience that can leave a lasting impact,” said Edward R. Leos, publisher of The Hotel Guide. “Our partnership with TCN aligns perfectly with our mission to inspire and inform travelers. Together, we’ll share the stories that matter and support the growth of travel coaches worldwide.”

Looking Ahead

The partnership is expected to kick off with collaborative content, interviews, and joint promotions. Both organizations are excited to work closely on upcoming projects, ensuring that travel coaching receives the recognition and awareness it deserves.

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The Hotel Guide Unveils Highly Anticipated 2024 Best of Awards Edition

Publisher — Thu, 05 Dec 2024 17:54:22 +0000

The Hotel Guide is thrilled to announce the release of its 2024 Best of Awards edition, celebrating the pinnacle of travel experiences, destinations, and hospitality. This year’s edition highlights exceptional hotels, luxurious resorts, top culinary hotspots, and unforgettable destinations from around the globe.

“We are incredibly proud to present this year’s Best of Awards edition,” said Edward R. Leos, Publisher of The Hotel Guide. “Travel is about creating unforgettable memories, and this issue is packed with inspiration to help our readers plan their most extraordinary journeys yet.”

For more than three decades, The Hotel Guide has been the trusted companion for travel enthusiasts, providing readers with expertly curated articles to elevate their journeys. The 2024 Best of Awards edition continues this tradition, spotlighting standout destinations and accommodations that have set new standards in excellence.

Highlights of the 2024 Best of Awards Edition:

Top-rated hotels and resorts worldwide.
Must-visit destinations for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Best wellness retreats – nationally and internationally
Top culinary cities in the United States
Hand-picked national and international golf retreats

In addition to highlighting the year’s best in travel, The Hotel Guide invites readers to participate in shaping future editions. Readers are encouraged to share their favorite destinations, culinary hotspots, and unique travel experiences by emailing erleos@thehotelguide.com.

The 2024 Best of Awards edition is now available at www.thehotelguide.com to explore the issue and start planning your next adventure.

About The Hotel Guide:
For over 31 years, The Hotel Guide has been a trusted resource for travel inspiration, showcasing the finest hotels, resorts, destinations, and experiences worldwide. With a commitment to elevating travel experiences, the magazine continues to be a leader in the industry, offering expert insights and curated recommendations for travelers of all kinds.

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Spring Edition is LIVE

Publisher — Thu, 30 Mar 2023 15:41:33 +0000

As we continue our yearly 30th-anniversary celebration, this Spring edition of The Hotel Guide is certainly one for the ages. In it, we have re-launched our Relocation Section to help you find the home of your dreams or use it for the next vacation rental property.
Wellness has always been a hallmark of our publication and this issue is truly dedicated to that cause. Start your journey at Tet Rouge in St. Lucia at this adult’s-only destination. Other incredible stops include Bainland Lodge Resorts, Cala Luna Boutique Hotel and the Maldives.
Spring also brings some fun places to visit. Don’t forget to check out Clarksville, Tennessee and all of the outdoor activities found in this quaint city. Traveling through Texas? Swing by Grapevine, Texas and experience their art and wine festival.
Ready for some beach time? Then Myrtle Beach is the place for you and the family. This beautiful East Coast city has so much to do. You definitely don’t want to miss it.
As we travel internationally, you can read about San Miguel de Allende, the Hilton Monterrey and the Hilton Vallarte Riviera.
Finally, we are always big fans of the Culinary experience. As this section starts to grow, you will see more and more national and international flair. This edition we cover Chestnut Properties which brings award-winning pubs and restaurants along with the newest drink concoctions at Hacienda Encantada Resort.
Traveling soon? Remember, we are now powered by Fora Travel to handle all of your travel needs. Let us book your next travel excursion.

Travel. Make Memories.

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The Hotel Guide Celebrates 30th Anniversary

Publisher — Wed, 01 Feb 2023 01:38:32 +0000

It all started in 1993 as The Hotel Guide of San Antonio. This cool, little publication was direct-mailed to thousands of travel agents, meeting planners, national tour operators and relocation centers.
The idea was simple…target the traveler BEFORE they ventured to the Alamo City. Well, 30 years later, the same unique selling point applies.
Our goal is to introduce our readers to some of the top hotels/resorts, destinations, wellness venues, culinary escapes and starting next issue – our Relocation section rebirth.
The list is too long with regards to who to thank. It’s not often a business, much less a publication, stands the test of time and eclipses 30 years.
From San Antonio, to Austin and now the world, we are honored to bring you our award-winning style, content and more.
So, what’s in store for our anniversary year? Well, lot’s actually. You will see our distribution expand. You will notice us add our Cruises section back and begin to showcase some of the top places to live, not just visit in our Relocation section.
Additionally, our Travel Talk podcast will expand with a variety of new guests and a consistency too. Bottom line, we will evolve and continue to get better and produce a digital travel/relocation platform you can be proud of.
Cheers to another 30 years! From our family to yours, thank you for supporting us through this journey. I promise you, the best is yet to come.

Travel. Make Memories.

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Holiday Edition is LIVE

Publisher — Mon, 03 Oct 2022 12:10:40 +0000

We flew past Summer and land in Fall. Traveling when the seasons change is always a fun time of year, and this is no different. This edition takes us all over the world with some fantastic ski destinations, a beautiful Florida jaunt and some incredible culinary options.
Being a beach lover, escaping to South Walton Beach, Florida was a highlight of my Summer season. This lovely corner of the world is made up of 16 mini cities that all have their own style, charm and uniqueness. If you’re looking for that perfect beach getaway, consider this tropical paradise.
If you’re ready to jump right into ski season, look no further than Sun Valley Resort. As one of the nation’s top-ranked ski resorts, you certainly won’t be disappointed.
Two other perfect destinations are Les Trios Vallees and the adventure found through the Mountain Collective Pass.
This edition also lands us with some marvelous guest writers and their experiences. Read about Cenodio Dei Dogi by travel writer Linda Beach, or Experiencing Charleston by Carla Pallares.
When you combine travel and humanitarianism, look no further than “The Edge of Adventure” and Adam Asher.
A travel magazine wouldn’t be complete without some delicious culinary options. Let your taste buds go wild reading about Bottega Il Buco, the Columbus-style pizza trail and the spooky haunts in San Diego.
For great story ideas or to be a part of our “Experiences” section, send me a personal e-mail by clicking here. Looking for great hotel deals? Remember that you can book all of your travel from our website or by simply clicking here.
Travel. Make Memories.

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Muir, Autograph Collection, Welcomes Travellers with a Nova Scotian Experience

Publisher — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 14:43:03 +0000

Inspired by the enduring spirit, culture and character of Nova Scotia and its people, Muir, Autograph Collection, officially opens its doors on December 10, 2021. Located in the new Queen’s Marque district on the Halifax Waterfront in the absolute centre of downtown, Muir is the first hotel in Nova Scotia to join Autograph Collection Hotels, a curated collection of the world’s most distinctive independent hotels, hand-selected for their inherent craft and distinct perspectives on design and hospitality.
“We are delighted to announce our opening on December 10 and are ready to welcome guests to an elevated hospitality experience that is truly ‘Born of this Place’,” said Eugénie Jason, General Manager, Muir, Autograph Collection.
Bold Architecture and Inspired Interiors Envisioned, developed and operated by The Armour Group Limited, and designed by celebrated Nova Scotian firm MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects, Muir is a shining example of “Born of this Place” design – honouring character, materiality and heritage through the art of place-making. Throughout the property, the forms portray a contemporary marine, wharf-like design while materiality makes a connection to place – from local materials, including salt-and-pepper granite and sandstone, to Muntz metal, a copper alloy prominently used in shipbuilding. Together, these elements provide an indelible sense of place, resulting in a design that simply could not exist anywhere else.

Muir’s interiors and furnishings are the work of internationally-recognized designer Alessandro Munge of Canada’s Studio Munge. Throughout the hotel, custom furniture and lighting – designed and crafted in Canada – reflect a modern interpretation of East Coast design. Rooms and suites are richly textured with curved white oak walls and plank flooring – a subtle nod to ocean voyages. Gathering spaces are anchored by soft cove lighting and lively fireplaces. Statement pieces from local artists are proudly displayed throughout the property, including commissioned landscape paintings, sculptures, photography, ceramics and tapestries.
Distinct Amenities and Experiences
Muir’s curated collection of amenities includes the ultra-premium wellness centre, Windward Wellness, where high-performance fitness equipment, vitality spa pool and halotherapy salt room encourage guests to rest and rejuvenate. Little Wing, a 36-foot Morris yacht and Reach, Muir’s high-speed motorboat, are available for guests to charter and explore the harbour and get a view of this much-loved city locals know best.

Elevated Cuisine and Cocktails
Inspired by this region’s natural bounty, Drift is a culinary love letter to Nova Scotia’s land, people and history. Featuring modern, elevated takes on classic Atlantic Canadian dishes, Drift’s culinary vision is driven by celebrated Canadian Chef Anthony Walsh and Chef de Cuisine Jamie MacAulay.As distinct as Muir itself, Drift is thoughtfully designed for entertaining colleagues or quiet work at the spacious bar. The dining room is expansive yet comfortable, with detailed craftsmanship and premium materiality complemented by an outdoor patio with stunning waterfront views. Floor to ceiling marble fluted fireplaces, leather-wrapped walls, bespoke furnishings and soft lighting invite guests to linger and connect.

BKS, Muir’s secret speakeasy, is an enclave of curved wooden walls, muted marble and luxurious banquettes. Open to hotel guests and for private events, BKS offers a discreet setting for historically-inspired premium cocktails and unique small plates, which are best savoured on the harbourside private terrace with the most desirable views in the city.
Memorable Meetings and Gatherings
Muir offers one-of-kind settings for business events, celebrations and gatherings. In addition to conversation-starting art, the 1,200-square-foot True Colours Art Gallery offers a dramatic harbour-facing backdrop for exclusive gatherings. The Wardroom – complimentary for Muir guests – is a fully-appointed, private executive meeting space that can hold up to six guests. The Watch, embraced by the sea on three sides, is a 2,100-square-foot event space featuring bespoke furniture, an art collection, two private bars and a private tasting room.

The Heart of Halifax
Muir is part of the Queen’s Marque district, a cultural and community destination for locals and visitors to Atlantic Canada. The bustling district encompasses vibrant restaurants, shops, nightlife, offices and luxury residences, all set against a striking harbour backdrop.”We are thrilled to announce the opening of Muir, a refined, distinctly Nova Scotian hospitality experience that represents a contemporary Nova Scotia,” said Scott Armour McCrea, CEO and President of The Armour Group.From an impeccable waterfront location, carefully appointed rooms with thoughtful amenities, to Nova Scotian art, design and dining, Muir establishes an authentic “Sense of Place” that invites guests to forge a meaningful connection with the province and its people.Autograph Collection Hotels is a member of Marriott Bonvoy, the award-winning travel program from Marriott International. Members enjoy exclusive benefits and a contactless experience with the Marriott Bonvoy Mobile app, achieve elite status recognition, earn points toward free nights, and redeem for hotel stays across Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio of 30 hotel brands.
To reserve or for more information, visit Muirhotel.com. Follow Muir on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn for updates in the lead-up to opening day.

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Christmas Season Arrives at Munich Airport

Publisher — Fri, 03 Dec 2021 16:07:12 +0000

During the Christmas season, Munich Airport offers passengers and visitors a wide range of services in numerous stores and restaurants. Comprehensive hygiene measures are in place to ensure the necessary protection against infection.
The outdoor beer garden of the airport brewery “Airbräu” in the Munich Airport Center invites to a cozy stay during the winter season. Blankets and radiant heaters at all seats, rustic huts and hot drinks provide warmth and a Christmas ambience.
Special warm-up drinks include homemade warm egg liqueur and traditional mulled wine. As a seasonal treat, the Airbräu brew master is now serving the strong winter beer “Krampus”. The winter beer garden will be open until March 15, 2022.
The access to the beer garden is restricted to vaccinated and recovered guests with appropriate proof of health.
During the holiday season, Airbräu will once again offer different festive menus for takeaway – including the popular “Duck to Go” along with wine, side dishes and pastries.
For those looking for suitable gift ideas, Munich Airport is the right address as well. All special offers can be found at: www.munich-airport.com/holidays.
When approaching the airport during the Christmas season, travelers are greeted by a magnificent 12-meter Christmas tree. The tree is decorated over a period of several days with around 120 fairy lights consisting of 1,800 LED lights making it a real eye-catcher.

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“Best of Awards” Edition is Here

Publisher — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 14:14:42 +0000

Welcome to our Winter and “Best of Awards” edition. This is always one of my favorite issues as we wind down the year. It’s a great time for reflection and also anticipation of what the new year will bring.
In this edition, you will see a myriad of great venues and destinations to venture off to. Looking for that “dude-ranch” experience? Then, venturing out to the C Lazy U Ranch in Colorado is a must.
Not far from there in California, two incredible areas to visit are Visalia and Temecula. Both have their own character that invites tons of travelers yearly.
The holidays also can’t be complete without a visit to Orlando, Florida and all that it has to offer.
Our ever-expanding “Wellness Section” has some incredible travel tips from our new section editor, Wynita Yancy. Check it out. While you are there, be sure and read our features on Canyon Ranch and the Phoenician in Scottsdale, Arizona too.
This issue wouldn’t be complete without our 2021 “Best of Awards” section. Here you will find our selections for: Top 10 Texas Cities, Top 10 U.S. Cities, Top 10 Family-Friendly Hotels, Top 10 U.S. Boutique Hotels, Top 10 U.S. Luxury Hotels, Top 10 U.S. Golf Resorts, and the Top 10 Wellness Retreats.
For great story ideas or to be a part of our “Experiences” section, send me a personal email at erleos@thehotelguide.com.
Travel. Make Memories.

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