Travelers from the US who are looking for experiences outside of the typical hotspots are drawn to alternative destinations. Skyscanner’s data analysis shows a trend toward smaller cities in the Americas and around the world.
As tourists seek for unusual experiences beyond the typical tourist routes, these up-and-coming locations gain popularity.
Top 5 Emerging Travel Destinations for 2025
Budget airlines are creating chances for American tourists seeking inexpensive yet distinctive travel places to discover undiscovered treasures across the globe. The top five popular new travel locations for 2025 are listed below, along with information on the main attractions, low-cost airlines, and estimated prices.
| Rank | Destination | Airline | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Grand Turk Island, Turks and Caicos | Frontier Airlines, interCarribean Airways | $488 |
| 2 | Quepos, Costa Rica | Frontier Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Sansa Regional | $317 |
| 3 | Tromsø, Norway | Iberia | $468 |
| 4 | Tucumán Province, Argentina | Aerolíneas Argentinas, United, FlyBondi | $416 |
| 5 | Krabi, Thailand | Zipair, Thai Lionair, Jetstar | $492 |
1. Grand Turk Island, Turks and Caicos
- Airlines: InterCaribbean Airways (JY) and Frontier Airlines (F9)
- Estimated Flight Cost: $488
Grand Turk Island is a snorkeler’s and diver’s dream come true because of its famously clear waters and colorful coral reefs.
Visitors can take in serene beaches like Governor’s Beach and historic sites like the Grand Turk Lighthouse. The Turks and Caicos National Museum offers an insight into the history and culture of the area, so don’t miss it.
Turks and Caicos’ social media presence is enhanced by celebrity visits. The islands’ immaculate beaches and picturesque scenery are exhibited by the Kardashians, Biebers, and Drake.
Influencer marketing promotes these Caribbean locations on social media, which boosts travel.
November through April are the best months to go because of the nice weather that is perfect for beach lounging and outdoor activities.
What makes Grand Turk Island an Emerging Destination?
Grand Turk Island has seen a 528% increase in search traffic from US tourists, indicating previously unheard-of interest.
This Caribbean location is served by Frontier Airlines (F9) and InterCarribean Airways (JY), with flights costing an average of $488. With the sharp rise, Grand Turk is now the travel destination with the quickest rate of growth among Americans.
2. Quepos, Costa Rica
- Airlines: Frontier Airlines (F9), Spirit Airlines (NK) and Sansa Regional (RZ)
- Estimated Flight Cost: $317
Quepos is the entryway to the breathtaking Manuel Antonio National Park, which is home to lush jungles, clean beaches, and a broad range of species. Adventurers can do zip-lining, hiking, and fishing.
The park’s unique habitat, which includes rainforests, mangroves, and lagoons, supports three monkey species.
Playa Espadilla and Playa Biesanz have pristine beaches, and the adjacent waters are among the world’s best places for sea fishing.
For the best outdoor exploration conditions, visit between December and April during the dry season. Explore the lively Marina Pez Vela, which offers dining, shopping, and boat cruises. Public buses provide a cheap option to travel across Costa Rica, including Quepos.
Why Costa Rica for an Emerging Travel Destination?
Quepos, Costa Rica has shown a 462% increase in search interest from US vacationers. Several budget airlines, like Frontier Airlines (F9), Spirit Airlines (NK), and Sansa Regional (RZ), offer inexpensive flights of roughly $317 for this Costa Rican destination. This flight has two stops and includes self-transfer.
All of the airlines mentioned above work together to help you reach your destination. However, the destination offers the most affordable flights among trendy areas.
3. Tromsø, Norway
- Airlines: Iberia (IB)
- Estimated Flight Cost: $468
Tromsø is renowned for its breathtaking Northern Lights, unique Arctic adventures, and rich Sami culture. Highlights include dog sledding, whale watching, and a visit to the Arctic Cathedral.
Solar-conscious Americans visit Tromsø to see the Northern Lights. The Norwegian city has attracted astronomy aficionados following the recent solar eclipse, which sparked interest in celestial events.
Plan your vacation between September and April for the best possibility of seeing the Northern Lights. Purchase a Tromsø Pass to receive savings on attractions and public transportation.
The northern Norwegian city has seen a 129% surge in American vacation searches. Iberia (IB) offers flights to Tromsø with average tickets of $468. Despite the greater travel costs, the site is popular with astronomy aficionados and Northern Lights seekers.
4. Tucumán Province, Argentina
- Airlines: Aerolíneas Argentinas (AR), United Airlines (UA), FlyBondi (FO)
- Estimated Flight Cost: $416
Tucumán Province boasts breathtaking landscapes, like the Quilmes Ruins and Calchaquí Valleys. It is also a center for Argentine history and culture.
Tucumán Province is attracting American vacationers with a 500% increase in search interest. Argentina’s smallest province features a mix of Andean vistas and Gran Chaco lowlands. This tiny territory is brimming with natural treasures and cultural heritage.
Visit between May and September to enjoy the warm weather and outdoor activities. Discover the lovely city of San Miguel de Tucumán, renowned for its colonial architecture and historical significance.
Domestic planes and buses are inexpensive options to visit other parts of Argentina from Tucumán.
Search traffic in this Argentine province has increased by 113%. Aerolineas Argentinas (AR), United Airlines (UA), and FlyBondi (FO) offer flights from the United States to Tucumán, Argentina for an average of $416.
Despite the fact that there are few direct flights from the United States, the region remains popular. Despite the fact that United Airlines is not a budget airline, it does provide lower-cost flights than other carriers on that route.
5. Krabi, Thailand
- Airlines: Zipair (ZG), Thai Lionair (SL), Jetstar (JQ)
- Estimated Flight Cost: $492
Krabi is known for its stunning limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and beautiful islands. Railay Beach, Phi Phi Islands, and the Emerald Pool are among the most popular attractions.
HBO’s “The White Lotus” generates tourism interest in Thailand’s filming locales. The show’s next season will focus on Thai beaches, coral reefs, and jungles. Viewers want to visit these locations sans the show’s tragic components.
Plan your journey between November and March to ensure dry, pleasant weather and calm seas. Krabi Town’s night markets offer real Thai street food. Renting a scooter is an affordable option to see Krabi’s sights on your own.
Thailand’s beach paradise has seen a 77% increase in US vacation searches. Zipair (ZG), Thai Lionair (SL), and Jetstar (JQ) offer flights to Krabi for roughly $492. Despite being the most expensive of the five destinations, Krabi continues to gain in popularity with Americans.
NOTE: The availability of airlines and the cost of the trip may differ depending on the traveler’s departure point. For reference, the flight information and pricing are based on departures from Los Angeles on January 15.