The golden sand, waving palms and hopefully a tropical drink with way too many fruits and liquors in it – it’s hard to beat an island vacation.
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But with several hundred thousand islands in the world, where should you go? The travel-technology company Expedia has some suggestions in its new “Island Hot List” for 2025.
Using travelers’ criteria on affordable prices, good flight access, standout accommodations and tourism appeal, the company chose 10 island escapes worth your time and money. It also provided the strongest argument for each destination. Aruba ranks best for unbeatable sunny weather, for instance, and the Dominican Republic ranks highly for adventure potential.
Writes Expedia: “These destinations go beyond the postcard – embracing sustainability, authenticity and cultural richness.”
The Expedia Island Hot List 2025
1 Aruba: best for year-round sunshine
2 Bali, Indonesia: best for relaxation
3 Dominican Republic: best for adventure
4 Fiji: best for community
5 Jamaica: best for culture
6 Koh Samui, Thailand: best for affordable luxury
A beach scene from Meedhupparu in the Maldives. (Dreamstime/TNS)
7 Maldives: best for romance
8 Oahu, Hawaii: best for surfing
9 Paros, Greece: best for nightlife
10 Sardinia, Italy: best for food lovers