The Bird’s Word Blog

After much deliberation, the Journeys International team has carefully selected our top destination list for 2025, and we’re excited to share it with fellow explorers.  Each destination on this list was chosen for its unique ability to connect travelers with the world in meaningful ways—through rich histories, untouched wilderness, and immersive cultural experiences. Here’s a closer look at what makes these places stand out and why they belong in your travel plans for the year.

The Arctic: The Northwest Passage

Just over 1,000 miles south of the North Pole, the Northwest Passage is a legendary sea route steeped in history and natural wonder, offering a breathtaking journey through the Arctic’s untamed wilderness. This frozen frontier is home to iconic wildlife, including polar bears, narwhals, and beluga whales, as well as dramatic landscapes of towering glaciers, ice-filled waterways, and vast tundra. Beyond its natural beauty, the region carries a rich historical legacy, most famously tied to the ill-fated Franklin Expedition. Tracing the route of these early explorers provides a window into the challenges and triumphs of Arctic exploration, adding a layer of intrigue to every mile traveled.

Experience it for Yourself

Our Northwest Passage: The Legendary Arctic Sea Route trip offers a rare chance to follow in the footsteps of history while experiencing the Arctic’s incredible wildlife and landscapes. Over 14 days, you’ll visit Beechey Island, where the Franklin Expedition made its fateful winter camp, and stop at remote Inuit communities to learn about their deep connection to the region. You’ll also cruise past towering glaciers and through iceberg-strewn waters, with opportunities for Zodiac excursions to explore hidden bays and fjords. Expert naturalists and historians on board will guide your experience, enriching your journey with captivating stories and insights into this extraordinary region.

Turkey: Fethiye and the Mediterranean Coast by Gulet

Embark on a timeless voyage along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast aboard a traditional gulet, a Turkish wooden yacht with cabins for 4-16 passengers. Explore the azure Mediterranean coast where verdant hillsides meet rich blue waters and both land and water are dotted with ancient ruins. The charming harbor town of Fethiye serves as the gateway to this maritime adventure, offering a blend of rich history and natural beauty. As you sail, discover secluded coves accessible only by sea, swim in crystal-clear waters, and explore hidden gems like Butterfly Valley, renowned for its diverse butterfly species and stunning canyon. Each day brings a new horizon, from the sunken ruins of Kekova to the medieval fortress of Simena, all while enjoying the leisurely pace and comfort of your charming sailing vessel.

Experience it for Yourself

Our Cappadocia, Ephesus, and the Coast journey seamlessly combines Turkey’s diverse landscapes and historical treasures. Over 13 days, you’ll traverse the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, with its fairytale chimneys and underground cities; walk through the ancient streets of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Roman cities; and finally, set sail from Fethiye aboard a gulet. This segment of the trip allows you to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Mediterranean, visiting secluded bays, snorkeling in turquoise waters, and savoring freshly prepared Turkish cuisine under the stars. This thoughtfully crafted itinerary offers a harmonious blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and coastal relaxation, providing a comprehensive Turkish experience.

Peru: Active in the Andes

Beyond the well-trodden trails to Machu Picchu lies a world of wonders in the Andes, offering active adventure and discovery at every turn. Almost every traveler has heard of “The” Inca Trail, but the Andes are a rich playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities to raft roaring rivers, bike through terraced valleys, and hike other Inca trails to a variety of archaeological sites surrounded by the region’s soaring peaks and serene beauty.

Experience it for Yourself

Our Active in the Andes adventure takes you beyond the ordinary. Over 11 days, explore Peru’s highlands through a mix of dynamic outdoor activities. Navigate the rapids of the Apurimac River, mountain bike through the Sacred Valley past vibrant villages and ancient terraces, and trek remote trails to lesser-known archaeological gems. Along the way, engage with Andean communities, learning about their age-old traditions and way of life. The journey culminates in an unforgettable arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, blending adventure, culture, and history into one remarkable experience.

Japan: Okinawa

Okinawa, the stunning collection of Japan’s southernmost islands, is renowned for natural beauty, rich culture, and remarkable longevity. Known as one of the world’s Blue Zones—regions where people consistently live longer, healthier lives—Okinawa invites respectful travelers to explore its secrets of wellness and vitality. Its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs are perfect for snorkeling and diving, while lush forests and hiking trails reveal breathtaking landscapes. The islands’ culture is as captivating as its nature, from ancient Ryukyuan ethnic traditions to modern-day culinary delights like goya champuru and unique Okinawa soba.

Experience it for Yourself

Journeys is currently crafting an immersive itinerary to help you uncover the wonders of Okinawa. Whether you’re island hopping to find your perfect remote beach and snorkeling reef, strolling around a blue zone village with a centenarian sherpa, or experiencing firsthand the nine elements of traditional Okinawan food culture, Okinawa offers countless opportunities to connect with its natural and cultural heritage. If you’re interested in exploring this fascinating region and discovering the secrets of this Blue Zone, let us know—we’d love to get you on our contact list for an upcoming group trip or help you plan a private adventure now.

Pakistan: The North

Northern Pakistan is a captivating blend of natural grandeur and cultural richness. Towering peaks of the Karakoram Range, including the legendary K2, rise above lush valleys, ancient glaciers, and serene villages. This region is a crossroads of history, where centuries-old Silk Road trade routes intersect with thriving traditions of the Wakhi and Burusho communities. Ancient Buddhist relics and the majestic forts of Hunza whisper stories of the region’s rich and complex past, while the warm hospitality of the people makes every visit unforgettable.

Experience it for Yourself

Our Pakistan Rare Journey: Mountains, History, and Heritage includes exploration of both the northern and central regions of Pakistan. Over 16 days, you’ll explore the Hunza Valley’s terraced fields and forts, walk along the Baltoro Glacier, and marvel at the peaks of the Karakoram Range. In central Pakistan, delve into the Pothohar Plateau’s rich history, including Buddhist relics and ancient petroglyphs. Along the way, you’ll enjoy authentic cultural exchanges, from tea with local villagers to vibrant bazaars, immersing yourself in vibrant nature and culture.

Malawi: Lake Malawi National Park

Lake Malawi, known as the “Lake of Stars,” is a breathtaking natural wonder cradled in the Great Rift Valley. Its crystal-clear waters are home to over 700 species of cichlid fish—more than any other lake on Earth—making it a living laboratory for evolutionary biology. Many of these species have evolved uniquely in the lake’s diverse habitats, showcasing dazzling colors and fascinating behaviors that captivate snorkelers and scientists alike. Along its shores, African fish eagles soar overhead, and you may spot hippos and crocodiles near the water’s edge. The surrounding forests and hills are alive with baboons, bushbuck, and the elusive leopard, offering even more opportunities for wildlife discovery.

Experience it for Yourself

Our Malawi and Zambia trip invites you to immerse yourself in Lake Malawi’s beauty with activities like snorkeling among the colorful cichlids and relaxing on tranquil, sandy beaches. From there, journey into Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park for thrilling safaris, including walking treks and game drives to see elephants, lions, and painted wild dogs. This 13-day adventure balances serene lake moments with exhilarating wildlife encounters and cultural immersion with the friendly local people.

Costa Rica: Osa Peninsula

This remote and biodiverse haven is home to Corcovado National Park, often hailed as the crown jewel of Costa Rica’s national parks. Encompassing a staggering 13 ecosystems, including lowland rainforests, cloud forests, and coastal mangroves, it shelters an extraordinary array of wildlife—including 10% of the mammals found across the Americas, such as tapirs, jaguars, and elusive pumas. The park is also famous for hosting one of the largest concentrations of scarlet macaws in Central America, their vibrant plumage adding splashes of color to the emerald canopy.

Beyond the lush forests, adventurers can explore the underwater wonders of Caño Island Biological Reserve. Its crystal-clear waters reveal thriving coral reefs teeming with sea turtles, reef sharks, and tropical fish, making it one of the region’s premier spots for snorkeling and diving. Whether trekking through dense jungle or swimming alongside marine life, the Osa Peninsula offers an unmatched connection to nature’s wonders.

Experience it for Yourself

Our Costa Rica for the Natural Explorer trip is the perfect itinerary for the discerning explorer looking for an adventure into the Osa Peninsula. You’ll forgo the most touristy resorts and instead stay in authentic and local eco-lodges while you visit both Arenal and the Osa Peninsula with a local guide over eight days. In between enjoying the beautiful rainforests and local wildlife, you’ll also explore the delights of chocolate-making and the delicious fruits of a local farm.

Chile: Easter Island (Rapa Nui)

Stretching along South America’s western edge, Chile is a land of extremes and beauty, from the arid expanses of the Atacama Desert to the towering peaks of the Andes and the glaciers of Patagonia. Far off its coast lies one of its most fascinating treasures: Easter Island, or Rapa Nui. Famous for its enigmatic moai statues, this remote island is a testament to human ingenuity and a story of resilience. Once thought to exemplify ecological collapse, more recent research reveals that the Rapa Nui people likely innovatively managed their resources and thrived until European diseases and the slave trade caused devastating population declines. Today, Easter Island stands as a symbol of cultural endurance and creativity.

Experience it for Yourself

On Journeys International’s Easter Island Adventure, explore iconic sites like Rano Raraku, where the moai were carved, and Ahu Tongariki, home to the largest ceremonial platform. Beyond the history, engage with contemporary Rapa Nui culture by meeting local artisans, learning traditional carving techniques, and enjoying Polynesian dance and cuisine. This journey can also be made along with other mainland Chile adventures, offering a seamless blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

The year ahead offers opportunities to connect with the world in profound ways. Our hand-picked destinations invite you to explore deeper and experience more – and if you’re curious about any of them, we invite you to email or call an Adventure Specialist to chat more. Wherever your journey takes you, 2025 is another opportunity for discovery and connection.