The call of the tropics just got louder—and smarter. Expedia has just unveiled its first-ever Island Hot List for 2025, a dreamy, data-backed roundup of the world’s top islands to visit right now. With global interest in island getaways up 30%, this isn’t just a wanderlust wish list—it’s your ultimate guide to planning an unforgettable escape.
The list was curated with real traveler data and sentiment, blending everything from affordability and weather to traveler safety and local charm. So, where should you go next?
If it’s year-round sunshine you’re craving, Aruba delivers sun-drenched bliss with a side of desert-meets-Caribbean adventure. For conscious relaxation, Bali has reimagined its iconic landscapes through zero-waste hospitality and mindful tourism. Seeking romance? Maldives still reigns supreme, now with a sustainable twist—think solar-powered floating villas and coral farming. And if affordable luxury is calling your name, Koh Samui is Thailand’s wellness darling, boasting yoga retreats and beachside spirituality that won’t break the bank.
Other hot picks include Paros, Greece, emerging as the new Cycladic gem with laid-back nightlife and charming port towns; Sardinia, where agritourism and longevity-inspired experiences are fueling a wellness travel boom; and Fiji, where community and eco-luxury lead the charge in regenerative tourism.
Closer to home, Canadian travelers are leaning into Caribbean favourites like Barbados, Turks and Caicos, and Sint Maarten, while domestic gems like Cape Breton and Îles de la Madeleine are climbing the charts.
According to Expedia, September is the sweet spot for scoring the best rates and perfect weather—especially in Europe, where shoulder-season prices can drop by 35%. Pro tip: bundle flights and hotels to save an average of $680 CAD, or hop between islands for more adventure and less FOMO.
Whether you’re chasing surf in Oahu or savoring soul food in Jamaica, Expedia’s Island Hot List is your passport to paradise. Ready to escape? Check out the full list at expedia.ca. —Noa Nichol
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