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Hope. Fear. Excitement. The excitement of travelling for the first is palpable.

When I set out on my first trip around the world, I had no idea what to expect.

With over 17 years of travel experience, I now know better. Now, travelling is second nature to me. When I arrive at an airport, I am on autopilot.

Back then, I was a complete greenhorn. This was my first trip abroad.

To make up for my lack of experience, I used my guidebooks to get my feet wet and went on organized tours. I was inexperienced and young and made many rookie travel mistakes.

I understand what it is like to be just starting, with a mind full of questions, worries, and concerns.

If you are wondering how to travel and want some advice on how to prepare, I have 12 tips for first-time travellers that will help you avoid my mistakes.

1. Don’t Be Scared

Fear can be a powerful motivator. It’s scary to leap into unknown territory, but you’re not the first person who has travelled the world. You’re not exploring new continents or uncharted territory.

You can find a well-trodden travel path, and some people will guide you. You can do it, too, if millions of people are able to travel around the globe every year. You are just as capable of travelling as anyone else. You did the hard part, which was to decide to go. The hardest part is having the courage to take that decision.

Everyone makes mistakes. Everyone does (myself included). It’s all part of the experience.

You’ll find many people willing to help. You will be surprised at how kind and helpful people can be. You will make friends, survive, and be better off.

2. You don’t have to live by your guidebook

Guidebooks can be useful to get a general idea of a place. Guidebooks are a good way to get an overview of a destination and learn about the basic facts. You won’t find any of the newest off-the-beaten-path attractions, bars or restaurants.

Connect with locals to get the latest information (and insider tips). Connect directly with locals and expats using websites such as Meetup.com and Couchsurfing. You can receive advice and tips on how to maximize your trip.

Take a free walking trip when you arrive in a new town. It’s a great way to meet a local expert who is happy to give you their best advice. They know the best restaurants, bars and off-the-beaten-path activities.

Ask other travellers or staff at your hostel/hotel. Also, visit the local tourism board. This is an often overlooked great source of information. Locals can guide you to the best places!

Use a guidebook as a foundation for your plans, but get the latest information from locals to fill in the details.

3. Travel Slow

Most new long-term travellers (including myself) learn this the hard way.

It can be tempting to try to fit in as many activities and cities as possible, particularly if your vacation only lasts a few days.

Rushing from one city to another every day will leave you stressed and exhausted. The whirlwind will leave you with a lot of blurry memories. You’ll get some amazing pictures for Instagram, but is this really the reason you travel?

Rolf Potts is the author of Vagabonding, a best-selling book.

Quality, not quantity, is what matters in travel. Do not worry about the number of places you visit. Do not try to impress others with how many countries you have visited. Slow down to enjoy your destination. You will learn more and enjoy the experience more.

When it comes to travelling, less is more. Traveling slowly can also reduce transportation costs. Slower travel is cheaper!

4. Pack Ligh

When I visited Costa Rica in 2003, I packed a bag with a lot of stuff. I had hiking boots, pants, a fleece jacket, too many clothes, and toiletries that weighed as much as my entire body. All of it sat in the bag, mostly unopened.

Instead of packing for the actual trip, I packed “just in case”.

Remember that you can always buy more things when you’re on the road. You can purchase everything abroad: socks, shampoo, jackets and new shoes. You don’t need to bring the whole kitchen sink.

Pack light. Pack light. You will have less to carry and won’t be burdened with a heavy backpack for weeks or months.

A bag of around 40 litres is sufficient unless you’re going somewhere very cold. This size bag is easier to carry and doesn’t become too bulky. It can also fit in your carry-on if necessary.

Find the right bag for you and your budget.

5. Get Travel Insurance

Whether you are a seasoned traveller or a new backpacker, make sure that you have the right protection in case of an emergency. The COVID-19 Pandemic taught us that sudden emergencies can happen out of the blue.

I’ve had my luggage lost. In Thailand, I ruptured my eardrum. In Colombia, I was stabbed.

One of my friends has broken a bone while travelling. My friends needed helicopter evacuation from the Amazon. I have friends who were forced to fly home because of a sudden death.

Stuff happens. Things happen.

Travel insurance is a great way to protect yourself.

I always carry it with me because I am aware of how quickly things can turn bad. Be protected. You’ll also feel more confident and have peace of mind.

Travelling without stress is one of the New Year’s Resolutions we have set for 2025. Travelling can be exciting, eye-opening and restorative, but let’s admit it: getting to your destination is not always easy. Even the most enthusiastic nomads may be tempted to stay home after paying for expensive airfares, navigating crowded terminals, and keeping track of travel documents such as passports and Real IDs.

With a little planning, you can ensure a smoother trip in 2025. You can make your travels more affordable, maximize your valuable points and miles and reduce security and customs waiting times by completing some simple tasks before the new year. We’ve listed six things you can do to prepare for a stress-free travel experience.

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Check your passport expiration date.

Do you dream of a trip abroad in 2025? You’ll need to take a look at your passport. It’s wise to renew your passport if the expiration date falls within the next 12 months. You should renew your passport well in advance of the expiration date. Many countries require that your passport be valid for six months beyond your arrival.

The passport processing time is now back to the relatively short timeframes of pre-pandemic, which was four to six weeks (not including mail time). Renewals and first-time passport applications should be planned carefully. You’ll have plenty of time to plan your trip in 2025 if you submit your application before the end of December. According to the State Department’s “slow season,” the best time to renew or apply for a passport is between October and December. This is a three-month window with the least number of applications.

You can save time by renewing your passport online. Many travellers are eligible for this new digital process. However, first-time applicants still need to submit their application via mail. If you forgot to renew your passport over the holidays, there is still an option to pay $60 for expedited processing. This will reduce the turnaround time from two to three months.

Reevaluate your point and mile strategy.

Rachel Lipson is the founder of Brooklyn Family Travelers, which helps families to book vacations using points and mileage. You can assess your spending habits by asking yourself some questions. Have you been spending all your money on the same airline card or hotel card and are now finding it difficult to maximize your points? You may have a credit card that gives you cash back but are now ready to switch over to points.

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Lipson says that answering these three questions will help you clarify your travel priorities and make stress-free travel more achievable. For some travellers, the next step is to open a new credit card, while others may decide to transfer their spending from an old card.

Major changes were also made to airline loyalty programs in 2024, making it more difficult and expensive to achieve the coveted elite status. It’s crucial to decide whether you want to pursue or maintain elite status before 2025. Lipson warns that while status can be fun and lead to upgrades and perks for clients, it’s not always worth the effort.

Lipson says that some travel brands offer high-elite status simply by having a certain credit card. This means there is more competition to get the best upgrades. Lipson says that putting more money on a credit card with transferable points gives you more options when choosing a hotel or a flight. These cards include the Amex Platinum, the Chase Sapphire Reserve and many others. Flexible points allow you to select the best-priced trip without having to stick with one brand.

Application for Global Entry (or renewal)

If you plan to travel frequently abroad after 2025, you might want to consider it. A five-year Global Entry membership costs $100 (which most travel credit cards will cover), and it could save you hours in airport lines.

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You can also complete the required interview after returning from a trip abroad at an eligible enrollment-on-arrival kiosk in an airport. Washington Dulles Airport also has one enrollment in the departure office. Take advantage of this if you are departing on a flight overseas from that hub. There are other enrollment centres in the US where you can have an interview, but it is sometimes difficult to schedule one.

If you are already a member, check your membership expiration date. Renewals can be started up to one year before the expiration date. Renewal early is worth it: travellers who renew their membership before its expiration can continue to use Global Entry benefits up to 24 months after that date.

Create a routine to save for large trips.

According to data gathered by the banking app Chime, in 2024, the average cost for a one-week US vacation would be $1,991 per person, rising to $3982 for a couple.

These numbers may seem daunting, but with the right plan and timing, you can reach these benchmarks by 2025. Ted Rossman is a senior analyst at Bankrate and says that the key to saving money early is to put small amounts of money into a separate account to be used as a travel fund. Rossman suggests naming your travel account something fun like “Paris 2020”–it’ll help you stay motivated, and you won’t be as likely to raid it for other purchases.

If you can save regularly, even small amounts of money — like $40 per week — will add up. Rossman says that it’s easier to put money away in small amounts rather than all at once. He notes that $38 per week can add up to $2,000 over a year. Automate your contributions to the savings account. This will help you stay on track. Rossman advises that automating transfers will help you stay on track with your savings goal.

Set up price alerts for your dream destinations.

Many of us have already started to fantasize about our dream destinations for 2025. Consider using an airfare tracker to keep tabs on flight prices if you’ve got a list of dream destinations. These tools, available on sites such as Hopper, Kayak, Google Flights, Skyscanner and Going, send push notifications or email alerts when the price of a particular flight route drops. Sign up for price alerts on most sites by entering your dates, destination, and departure airport. Many sites let travellers set up multiple alerts for different routes. This allows you to input several trips you are interested in booking.

Timing is important when setting up alerts to find the best fares. Katy Nastro is a spokesperson for Going. She says that airlines release their fares 12 months in advance. However, the prices are usually high at first to attract early bookers who will pay more. Tickets are generally at their lowest price for the majority of destinations. If you want to go on a trip in the summer, Nastro recommends monitoring prices 4-10 months before your departure. Nastor says that she was able, using this method, to find a fare for a recent trip from New York to Athens at just $672 roundtrip.

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Skyscanner has an additional Savings Generator that will identify the best time for you to book your flight based on travel details. According to the search engine, it is best to book flights for May trips from Chicago to London 26 weeks in advance. This information can be used to determine when you should set up price alerts on all of your dream vacations.

You should have a Real ID.

Next year, new federal identification rules for air travellers, called REAL ID, will come into force. Real ID is due to expire on May 7, 2025. At that time, any passenger over 18 years old who is flying on a US flight (even if it’s domestic) must have an ID compliant with Real ID. This means that passengers must present a real ID license or other compliant ID at the TSA checkpoint. This includes passports, passport cards, Global Entry cards, and some other ID types. Real ID licenses are available in all 50 US states and territories. They require a few additional steps but can be obtained. If you see one of the following symbols in the upper corner, then your license is compliant: a black or gold star, a circle with a black or gold star around it, or an image of a bear with a star on top.

Are you ready for your next adventure by 2025? It doesn’t matter if you are a seasoned traveler or first timer, keeping up to date with the latest travel advice is essential for an enjoyable and seamless journey. Here are 13 top travel tips that will help you be a safe and savvy traveller by 2025.

1. Keep informed with travel advisories

Set up alerts for real-time travel advisories to stay ahead of the competition. Get instant updates about potential disruptions, security concerns, and any changes to entry requirements at your destination. This feature allows you to make quick decisions, adapt to changes, and have a better travel experience. The Travel Smart App provides 24/7 monitoring as part of their subscription service. Keep up-to-date with the latest dangers and be a Safe Traveller.

2. Pack Smartly for an Experienced Travel Experience

Packing smartly will maximize efficiency and reduce stress. Packing cubes are a great way to organize your items. Don’t forget the essentials such as a portable charger, universal adapter and reusable water bottles. To streamline the packing process, create personalized packing lists that are based on where you’re going and how long you plan to stay.

3. Mobile Workspaces: Embrace the digital nomad lifestyle

Find the best mobile workspaces for those who combine work with travel. Find co-working areas, quiet cafes and reliable Wi-Fi wherever you are. You can seamlessly combine work and leisure. This makes the digital nomad life more enjoyable and accessible. See some of the world’s best co-working space.

4. Time-saving routes can optimize your itinerary.

Use a route planner to make the most of each destination. Find the most efficient routes to attractions, restaurants, and accommodations. This will allow you to enjoy more of your travels without feeling rushed. It not only allows you to maximize your travel experience, but it also reduces stress and allows more spontaneity.

5. Smart Health Recommendations for Health and Safety

Stay informed about the health guidelines and medical facilities nearby. Travel Smart allows you to contact health emergency services through the app. This will ensure you are prepared for any medical situation. You can travel with peace of mind, and enjoy your trip. Don’t forget to take out travel insurance. It can help you save a lot of money in the event that you have medical costs while on vacation.

6. Get Authentic Experiences by Connecting with Locals

Connect with locals through the community features. Find out about local events and experiences that are authentic and recommended by locals and fellow travellers. You will develop a stronger connection to the places you visit and experience their true essence. You can do this by taking local tours, attending events or community gatherings. Many places that are popular with tourists will make an effort to welcome you and treat you well.

7. Local cash is essential

If you can, use local digital payment methods. However, always carry some local currency with you. Travel smart has a currency converter in the app, which makes it easy to manage your cash and calculate exchange rates. This app will allow you to tip and many places only accept cash.

8. Smart Travel Photography: Master the Art

Capture stunning moments with ease. Discover how to get the most out of your smartphone’s camera. Create memories that last a life time. This feature allows you to capture your journey visually, and preserve the magic of your trip for years to follow. Udemy offers affordable online photography classes to improve your travel photography.

9. Use Responsible Tourism to Leave a Long-lasting Impact

Follow eco-friendly practices to become a responsible traveller. Responsible tourism is promoted by information on eco-conscious accommodation, transportation, and activities. Making environmentally-conscious choices will help preserve natural resources, and you’ll also support the cultural and ecological integrity of destinations.

10. Currency Converter for Hassle Free Transactions

A currency converter will ensure smooth financial transactions. Travel Smart App offers a simple converter that allows you to check and convert any global currency quickly, making international spending easy. This tool will help you to get the most out of your money, and it eliminates the need to do complex mental calculations or search for currency exchange services.

11. Real-time weather forecasts for smart planning

Real-time weather predictions will help you stay ahead of the unpredictable weather. Travel Smart App provides up-to date weather information about your destination. This helps you to plan your trip and pack appropriately for a comfortable, enjoyable experience. This feature allows you to make informed choices based on the current weather conditions.

12. Culture Tips for Your Destination

Immerse yourself into local cultures by using cultural tips that are tailored to your needs. Travel Smart App gives you insights into customs, traditions, and etiquette of each country. This will help you navigate cultural landscapes with ease and respect. This cultural guidance will enhance your travel experience by enhancing meaningful interactions with the locals, and deepening appreciation of the rich tapestry that is global culture.

Use these tips to make your adventures in 2025 seamless, safe and memorable. Happy travelling! Travel Smart is available for Android and IOS. It is a great travel companion app.

You can go on an adventure without spending a fortune.

Do you think that travel is expensive? Please do not believe it! Your wanderlust does not have to be put on hold because the cost of living is increasing. Budget travel doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice all your fun and luxury. It’s more about how you spend. These practical tips can help you keep costs down and make your trip unforgettable, whether it’s a solo backpacking trip, a getaway with friends, a romantic vacation, or a holiday for the whole family. We are in a golden age of travel, and it has never been easier, more affordable, or as accessible. Here is your guide to travelling on a budget by 2025.

12 Travel Tips to Save Money This Year:

1. Travelling During Off-Season

The timing is crucial. Peak travel months are marked by higher airfares, more expensive accommodation and crowded tourist attractions. Opt for shoulder seasons and off-peak periods. Consider Europe in the late spring or tropical destinations when it rains. Fewer crowds and cheaper flights? Yes, please.

2. Plan (But Stay Flexible)

Last-minute bargains may sound appealing, but they are rarely the best option for saving money. The best deals are often found when booking flights and accommodations well in advance. Set up price alerts on sites that compare flights, such as Skyscanner and Google Flights. You can find great deals by being flexible with your travel dates and destinations.

3. Swap Hotels For Hostels

Hostels are no longer synonymous with dingy, creaky beds and dingy, cluttered rooms. Hostels are now chic, social and ideal for budget travellers. They offer private rooms and shared dorms at affordable prices, plus extras such as communal kitchens, free walking tours, yoga classes, and more. You’ll also meet other travellers who may share their budget-saving tips.

4. Spend Overnight to Save on Accommodation

Who said that travelling meant wasting the day away? Reduce your hotel costs by taking overnight trains or buses. You’ll save money and arrive at your destination eager to explore. Pro tip: Invest in a travel pillow for overnight trips to make them more comfortable.

5. Eat Local

Follow the locals and avoid the touristy restaurants that charge inflated prices. You’ll find the best food at street stalls, local markets, and hole-in-the-wall eateries. You’ll not only save money but also experience the real taste of travel. Why pay a fortune for pasta when you can enjoy a delicious plate of Pad Thai at a fraction of that price?

6. Local Transport

Taxis and car rentals are expensive. Opt instead for public transportation like buses, metros or trams. You can get around more easily, for less money, and with the locals. There are also bike-sharing programs in many cities, which offer an eco-friendly and affordable way to travel.

7. Keep to a Budget

You can easily lose track of your spending when you are having fun. But keeping a daily allowance will help you avoid unpleasant surprises. Budgeting apps such as Trail Wallet and Goodbudget can help you keep track of your spending. Budget money for souvenirs, food, and activities. But leave some wiggle room to treat yourself unexpectedly.

8. Find Free or Cheap Activities

You have to know where to find the best budget-friendly activities in your city. You can choose from free walking tours, discounted museum days, and public beaches. You can find free events, such as concerts or festivals, by checking local community boards and event apps.

9. Search For Work Exchange Programmes

How can you stretch your budget further? Work exchanges are a great way to get free meals and accommodation in exchange for your time. Workaway, WWOOF, and other platforms connect travellers to hosts who offer unique experiences such as working on farms, teaching English or helping in hostels.

10. Get Bundled Savings

All-inclusive resorts don’t have to be the only option for packages. You can save a lot of money by combining flights, hotels and car rentals. Package deals are often available on websites like Booking.com or Expedia. Look for combo tickets or city passes if you plan to visit multiple attractions.

11. Join Rewards Programmes

Loyalty programs are not just for business travellers. Even if you don’t travel often, sign up for frequent flyer programmes or hotel reward clubs. Some credit cards offer cashback and points for travel purchases. These points can quickly add up, giving you freebies and upgrades on your next trip.

12. Travel with a Group

You can split the cost of your trip with family or friends. Splitting costs is possible on all expenses, from taxis to meals and accommodation. Travelling in groups can often result in discounts. Splitting expenses allows you to enjoy a few extras without feeling guilty.

When you book your next vacation, you know that it’s important to minimize your travel footprint. Where do you start?

You’re not the only one who is stumped. According to a new Booking.com study, 84% of travellers around the world value sustainability. While the desire to travel more sustainably is strong, many people are unsure of the best way to do so. According to a Trip.com survey, nearly half of travellers were confused by what sustainable Travel meant. A 2025 World Travel & Tourism Council study revealed that costs are a major obstacle.

In 2025, with global tourism on the rise and environmental pressures increasing, it is crucial to rethink our travel habits. Here are a few simple and practical tips to help you make better travel decisions this year without sacrificing your comfort or joy.

1. Select trips that give back

Experts recommend that you ask yourself, as you plan your holiday for 2025 or beyond, whether you would like to be a passive tourist or one who has a positive influence on the destination. For example, a regenerative trip might involve conservation work at an ecolodge in Ecuador or a hiking adventure in Australia that helps revive Aboriginal culture. Fiji’s Loloma Hour encourages visitors to spend at least an hour during their trip on a positive cultural, environmental or social impact. Hawaii’s Malama experience enables visitors to give back by restoring habitats, cleaning beaches and other activities.

David Leventhal owns an eco-hotel and co-founded Regenerative Travel, a company that offers educational courses that aim to transform the travel industry. “We must reverse the damage and regenerate, working at a system level to better integrate people and planet.”

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2. Think beyond the environment

Booking.com’s 2025 Travel & Sustainable Report shows that travellers will be more aware in 2025 of the impact of tourism on the local community and the environment. This is the first time the majority of travellers have been made aware of this issue. Overtourism protests, which have already increased in 2025, and the lack of affordable housing in popular tourist destinations are driving a call for travellers to be more conscious about where, when, and how they travel.

Thoughtful Travel

Want to travel more efficiently? The series, Thoughtful Travel is about how people behave when they are away. It covers everything from ethics to etiquette.

The environmental aspects of sustainable Travel remain important, says Dr Susanne Becken, professor of sustainability tourism at Australia’s Griffith University. “But the growth of tourism puts more pressure on local communities, to the point that some tourism hotspots no longer want to be involved.”

Hiring local guides and being more respectful of local cultures help reduce the pressure on regional communities. Becken says, “Remember, the destination is someone’s house.”

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Are you looking for a community-based, immersive travel experience? Nepal’s Community Homestay Network launched three new “community circuits” for 2025. One of them includes an itinerary that traverses the little-visited east Nepal. A new Intrepid Travel journey offers an opportunity to interact with Indigenous elders while on a trip to Colombia’s Lost City. There are many ways to engage with communities responsibly and regeneratively. From visiting a Thai Island that has taken sustainability into its own hands to experience the life of a Swedish town which is a pioneer in sustainable living, there are a number of opportunities.

3. Hotel standards are higher than ever

The tourism industry is responsible for a significant amount of CO2 emissions. However, there are better alternatives. In March 2025, Populus opened the first carbon-positive hotels in the US and the UK.

Few & Far Luvhondo in South Africa opened in January 2025 and is one of many safari lodges focusing on sustainable innovation and ecotourism. This renewable energy, zero-waste lodge is working on rewilding 50,000 hectares in the Soutpansberg Mountains—even having Africa’s first solar-powered cable car experience.

What is sustainable Travel?

Sustainable Travel is about minimizing the harm we do to the places and people we visit and maximizing the benefits for all involved. It shares many of ecotourism’s principles, but it is more inclusive, including travelling outside natural areas. Regenerative tourism is hailed as the new paradigm in sustainable Travel. It shares many of the same principles as ecotourism, but it also includes Travel outside of natural areas.

You don’t have to spend a lot of money on a safari lodge to choose more sustainable accommodations. The Earthships, a unique net-zero hotel in the US, offers a network of hiking “hotels” that offer free stays with minimal impact. The Social Hub, a socially driven, affordable accommodation provider in Europe, opened a new Rome hotel in March 2025. Another is due to open this year in Porto.

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Becken suggests looking for certifications (such as B Corp, EarthCheck, and Green Globe) that show a company’s commitment to energy efficiency, mindful consumption, and how it treats its employees. If certification is not available, it can be difficult for small businesses. Check the property’s website to see if it has a sustainability policy that includes environmental and social initiatives. You can also contact the property directly. You can use the same approach with tour operators.

4. Take into account the journey as much as the destination

Many destinations offer initiatives to help travellers reduce their carbon footprint when they arrive. These include electric safaris, zero-waste dining and even decarbonization of their visitor economies.

While destinations are becoming greener, the transportation to get there is not. Becken says that air travel is still one of the most carbon-intensive parts of tourism. “Sustainable” aviation fuels are not enough to reduce aviation’s high emissions.

Ask these three questions before you book:

* Does it have an internationally recognized sustainability certification and/or a comprehensive sustainability policy, and how is its progress monitored?

* What positive impact does the hotel have on its local community and employees over the long term?

What steps will they take to reduce waste and achieve net-zero or better emissions?

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Rail enthusiasts will be pleased to know that in 2025, there will be a number of new options for a memorable and environmentally friendly route to their destination. The Indian Pacific, Australia’s first luxury train, has made its debut journey from Rome towards the Tuscan hilltown of Montalcino. Portugal’s Evora to Elvas route, which is expected to be finished in 2025 and will connect Madrid and Lisbon in just three hours, is the first link of a high-speed system that is set to connect Madrid and Lisbon eventually.

Booking platforms such as Google Flights can help you choose low-emission flights. They display the average emissions per route. Prioritizing direct flights and booking economy seats can also help reduce emissions. You can’t bear cabin waste? Air New Zealand has taken significant steps to facilitate the use of single-use plastics on planes. While carbon-offsetting flights with verified schemes will not reverse the damage done, most experts believe it is better than nothing.

5. Connect deeply and be curious

Anthony Bourdain once said, “Travel is not a reward or a way to learn. It is a way to live”. Booking an Indigenous-led tour is a good way to get a better understanding of your destination.

The launch of 2025 tours coincides with a record demand for First Nations experiences. One of these is a Byron Bay story-telling walk, which offers a powerful connection with one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations. Native and First Nation Tourism is also booming across North America. The American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association named Oklahoma’s Chickasaw Cultural Center the best cultural experience in 2025. It offers guided tours, a daily dance demonstration, and a daily stomp.

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Citizen science and hands-on activities in conservation also enable travellers to connect with destinations at a deeper level. Natural Habitat Adventures Kenya Rhino Conservation Safari, which is new for 2025, includes talks with conservationists at three private conservancies. Aurora Expeditions recently added Eyesea to its citizen science programme, an online platform that maps global pollution and maritime hazards.

6. Harness the Apps

Calculating your carbon footprint is an excellent way to monitor your impact. (Try the CoolClimate Calculator from the University of California at Berkeley). Apps can also help in many other ways. Discover new ways to enjoy nature with AllTrails. It offers more than 450,000 hiking trails around the world, including the top 25 to be explored in 2025. Happy Cow has named London its number-one vegan city for 2025. Droply connects travellers to more than 800,000.000 drinking water sources around the world, making it easy for them to avoid plastic bottles.

While social media is often blamed for over-tourism and other problems, research has shown that it can be used to spread positive experiences of sustainable Travel. Vilnius is the European Green Capital of 2025. Did you like your visit? Please share your experience with others and encourage them to visit Vilnius.

7. Greenwashing: How to identify it

As businesses seek to capitalize on the growing demand for ecotourism, greenwashing (or misleading sustainability claims) has become more prevalent. Booking.com, Etihad and Qantas, among others, were accused in 2024 of misleading sustainability claims.

Becken says that the new legislation [called Green Claims Directive] adopted by Europe will make it harder for companies to greenwash. We will see this roll-out globally. It’s up to consumers to remain vigilant until then. Leventhal says that you should use resources such as Sustainable Travel International’s guide on avoiding greenwashing when it comes to tourism. “Don’t undervalue the value of guests reviews”, he adds. Google and other platforms can provide a true picture of whether a hotel or tourism experience lives up to the promises made.

8. Leverage your privilege

Travel can be a force of good if we recognize the privilege that only a tiny percentage of the population has to travel. Travellers have the privilege to choose experiences that benefit people and the environment, from choosing eco-friendly activities to making sure we don’t exploit cultures or communities to selecting animal-friendly experiences. One could argue that privilege comes with more than just power. It also includes a responsibility to pass it on.