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As you may have heard, things have been a bit shaky in Santorini between earthquake warnings, and if the bucket-list island is anything like last summer, then overtourism concerns will surely repeat themselves.

On the bright side, Greece is home to 6,000 islands and many offer unparalleled views, whitewashed buildings draped with the kako mati, and incredibly pristine beaches to make the long journey worthwhile.

National Geographic just revealed an in-depth guide to 31 Greek islands to check out this year and Santorini didn’t crack the top 15.

2025 is the year to tap into your sense of wanderlust and explore the unknown, including these 3 Greek islands Nat Geo hyped up as the best.

3) Kos

Boasting a mix of history and tranquil beaches, Kos is on the opposite end of the spectrum of party-fueled Mykonos and more aligned with islands Naxos and Paros with virtually no crowds.

Nat Geo has dubbed Kos the ‘bicycle island’, and rightfully so.

There are over 6,000 bikes for hire to wander designated trails, including a new 8-mile path along the coast.

No rap battles, though. And there’s waaaay better food than Mom’s spaghetti with Greek classics like gyros that never disappoint, along with mousaka, souvlaki, and a focus on fresh seafood like octopus and calamari, living up to the common phrase that ‘everything is betta with feta’.

Especially, when you can dine on a patio overlooking the vibrant blue sea at such places as Olivity, just tucked away enough to feel authentic.

One of the top sites to reach on two wheels is the ancient site of Asclepieion, only $4.50 to enter.

While it’s certainly not the Acropolis, it offers a glimpse into the past of famed native Hippocrates, the ‘Founder of Medicine’ and healing/medicinal practices lifetimes ago.

The waterfront of Kos (the main town with the same name) is vibrant, walkable, and a delight to make your base in old-timey inns, or you can level up at the island’s most unique stay — 5-star all-inclusive Mitsis Selection Blue Domes, with accommodations ranging from bungalows to villas.

And the pool is to die for. It seems like it never ends as if it flows straight into the sea.

2) Kalymnos

Formerly a sponge-diving hotspot, all that changed when Spongebob captured our hearts.

Okay, thats second part is a lie…

What’s really transformed the island of Kalymnos from a former diver haven in the 90s’ to now what’s attracted a new type of adventure: rock climbing.

You can’t miss Kalymnos staggering limestone cliffs, but even if you’re not into chalking up your hands and praying to all the Greek gods the ropes weren’t bought on Temu, the island is still an idyllic paradise offering beautiful beaches, vibrant villages, and overall, a refreshingly authentic Greek island experience.

Travelers rave about Platis Yialos Beach on TripAdvisor, but Vlychadia Beach is off-the-beaten path with crystal-clear waters on what feels like a secluded cove.

For the best views, travelers also rave about the unmissable Saint Savvas monastery perched on the hillside and are free to enter.

Hotels are super cheap if you’re willing to downsize to a cozy boutique hotel. Kantouni Blue Sea holds an impressive 4.9 Google rating, and rates are around $50 through spring.

1) Nisyros

Ever heard of Nisyros? It’s probably a good thing that most of us haven’t as the island’s claim to fame is an active volcano, but is open to the public to visit.

It erupted in the 1800s, but its wild history goes way deeper. The volcano’s origins certainly put the “myth” in “mythology.”

As Nat Geo put it, it was ‘Poseidon who seized a chunk of Kos and hurled it on top of a fiery Titan called Polyvotis’, resulting in the creation of Nisyros.

Fact check, anyone?

You’ll want to scroll back up to #3, as Kos is the best gateway here. Even if you’re not into volcanic hikes, the pint-sized capital Mandraki is a delight to visit.

In fact, one could argue it’s one of the most picturesque towns in all of Greece’s islands. Lined with multi-colored homes, Byzantine churches, and sun-drenched waterfront tavernas, this is the type of laid-back Mediterranean paradise we’ve all dreamt of visiting.

Nat Geo also hypes up the tiny village of village of Emporios, but it packs a punch with ruins of castles, a natural cave sauna, and arguably the best views of the volcano.

If you stay in Mandraki, guests have loved boutique hotel Romantzo, only $51 per night this spring and offers spacious sea-view balconies.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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Not that travelers need the return of The White Lotus to entice them to visit Thailand’s wondrous islands, but it’s undeniably a selling point.

According to HomeToGo, Bangkok alone is seeing a 271% increase based on the show alone, but it’s the islands that are a mega draw this spring.

National Geographic has compiled an insightful list of Thailand’s top islands to visit this spring.

Whether you’re solely looking to visit The White Lotus filming locations or simply seeking to vacation in an underrated paradisal escape, Nat Geo is banking on these 4 islands to hit the mark for an epic trip, ranging from one of Thailand’s most popular beach destinations to lesser-known crowd-free hideaways.

4) Koh Lipe: The Anti-Phuket

If you’re trying to say Phuk-et to Phuket, Koh Lipe is just the place. Truth be told, Thailand’s most renowned island has become too popular.

So much so it was given the title of most overcrowded destination last year, with what’s essentially an endless array of island escapes, Thailand beholds some truly hidden gems off the radar of mainstream travelers.

Koh Lipe boasts stunning beaches just as pretty as Phuket’s, but they are far more enjoyable and peaceful without the hordes of tourists cramping your space.

The only challenge is getting here, and you can earn an extra passport stamp doing so. Your best option is to depart from a Malaysian ferry that runs until June.

Once here, you’ll find cheap beachside shacks serving as bars, crystal-clear waters, and sugary white sand that you can have all to yourself some days, as many tourists still don’t know of Koh Lipe’s wonders.

3) Koh Tao: Adventure Is Calling

Every traveler has their own version of paradise. Some picture lounging at the beach all day with a cocktail in hand; others want to soak up every minute in go-go-go fashion, never wanting to rest.

While there’s certainly nothing wrong with lounging beachside, Koh Tao invites travelers to explore the pristine waters as one of Thailand’s top diving destinations.

Below the surface, divers will find vibrant reefs and colorful schools of fish, among other marine life.

Better yet, it’s ultra cheap. How about a stay at Ban’s Diving Resort for just $11 per night?

Should you want to level up, though, there is a 4-star resort with a hefty price point — Haad Tien Beach Resort.

2) Koh Pha-Ngan: Thailand’s Most Underrated Island For Nightlife

The thing about Thailand is that even with well over 1,000 islands to its name, there’s something truly unique about each of them.

For Kho Pha-Ngan, Phuket’s underrated nightlife scene typically draws visitors. But hey, if unsightly crowds are your jam, then go ahead and cross “Phuket” off your list.

If not, then Kho Pha-Ngan is the place to be with monthly dusk-to-dawn ragers like the famous Full Moon Party and live music gatherings at The Jam Bar.

Oddly enough, it’s also the ultimate place to relax and recharge. Much needed after staying up all night.

The oldest temple on the island, Wat Phu Khao Noi is the perfect setting for photo-ops and open for meditations.

The best way to get here is by a quick ferry from Koh Samui.

1) Koh Samui: White Lotus Lovers Unite! (With A Catch)

Many scenes of The White Lotus were shot right here in Koh Samui, but this stunning island was one of Thailand’s most sought-after destinations even before the popularity of the show.

So much so Koh Samui has been publicized in multiple overtourism articles, including Fodor’s ‘do not visit’ list for 2025.

Who you listen to is your choice, though. There’s no denying the appeal The White Lotus has sparked, and the truth is most travelers will want to go to the heart of the action.

According to Nat Geo, the Four Seasons Resort was one of Season 3’s top filming locations, but you’ll have to fork over a pretty penny to stay here as rates soar over $2,000 per night!

There are much cheaper stays like Coco Palm Beach Resort, Ko Samui for just $73 this spring. And despite the unavoidable crowds given the newfound fame of the island, the beaches are still drop-dead gorgeous as are the numerous Buddha monuments, and cascading waterfalls in the lush jungles.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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Last Updated 13 mins ago

As convenient as air travel may be, and as awesome as it is to snag a window seat at cruising altitude, the truth is we have no idea if we’re looking down at Paris, Texas or Paris, France.

As a result, train travel has become more popular for the adventurous, with the U.S. taking a page out of Europe’s playbook.

However, we’re a little behind the times for bullet trains.

But that’s just the point.

More travelers seem to be opting for low-and-slow travel by hitting the rails for sweeping views of America’s gorgeous landscapes and timeless small towns instead of soaring above the clouds.

‘America the Beautiful’ lives up the name with numerous scenic train rides across the mainland and National Geographic has narrowed them down the best routes.

These are the top 3 U.S. train rides for 2025:

3) Acela Express: A 150MPH East Coast Adventure

Commercial jets can fly as fast as 575mph, but why deal with the hassle of the airport when you can still reach your destination in a reasonable time?

Train stations are far less of a hassle. When you can still reach speeds of 150mph, Amtrak’s Acela Express is a speedy journey to explore some of the East Coast’s most iconic cities.

Covering Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, and ultimately Washington DC, you can knock 4 urban jungles well worth a day trip at the very least.

You gotta grab a cheesesteak in Philly, right?

As such, the downside (or upside), depending on your preferred style of travel, is passengers need to purchase a ticket for each leg of the trip. (i.e. Boston to New York, New York to Philly, etc.)

According to Nat Geo, tickets start at $130, and the trip to Washington, D.C., from Boston takes approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes.

Acela Express amenities for Business/First Class:

• Choose your seat
• Fewer stops
• Don’t rush; Arrive at the station minutes before departure
• Electrical outlets and conference tables
• Adjustable lighting and large tray tables
• Wi-Fi equipped

2) California Zephyr: An Epic Journey From The Midwest To The Bay

Again, a route connecting a pair of American icons, Amtrak’s California Zephyr is one you’ll have to plan well ahead as it truly is ‘low and slow’ as mentioned before.

Taking 51 hours in total, you’ll want to download some movies and pack a new book or two. That is unless you’re into the new “raw dogging” trend taking social media by storm.

Yeah…good luck with that. One thing you won’t have to worry about is food. The dining car even serves steak!

Departing from Chicago to, you guessed it, California, you’ll want to take advantage of the option to choose a window when purchasing your ticket as you’ll cross some of America’s prettiest landscapes from the snow-capped Rockies to Utah’s fiery red canyons.

Ultimately, you’ll reach Emeryville, a small town outside of Oakland, which you’ll surely bypass for much more opportune explorations in San Francisco and San Jose.

According to Nat Geo, tickets start at $150.

Amenities vary by cart. For full descriptions of seating and accommodations ranging from Coach Class to Superliner Family Bedrooms, click here.

1) Rocky Mountaineer: A Once-In-A-Lifetime Train Ride

With domed-glass carriages, and as soft and cushy as the seats may be, you may want to pack a neck pillow as you’ll be glued to seemingly never-ending floor-to-ceiling views of magnificent canyons, picturesque ghost towns, and even wineries, as you snake along the winding Colorado River.

The Rocky Mountaineer is perhaps the most unique train journey in America, and without a doubt a bucket-list item.

This train offers 4 routes:

1. First Passage to the West (Canada)
2. Journey Through the Clouds (Canada)
3. Rainforest to Gold Rush (Canada)
4. Rockies to the Red Rocks (U.S)

Obviously, Nat Geo is recommending the ladder, crowning the Rockies to the Red Rocks as the best train ride in the U.S.

The route covers stunning natural formations and staggering mountains from Moab, Utah to Denver, Colorado.

On board, passengers will find a savory menu of locally-sourced cuisine and signature cocktails.

There is a fun overnight pit stop in Glenwood Springs where passengers are provided a hotel within the hefty ticket price of $1,725.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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