Destinations & Things To Do
South Africa and Botswana Now Ranked Among World’s Top Ten Travel Destinations in 2025 Telegraph Travel Awards
Friday, August 1, 2025
In the 2025 Telegraph Travel Awards, South Africa and Botswana have been announced as two of the top-10 travel destinations in world. South Africa won fourth position and Botswana made it to the best global destinations in a reference confirming their elite places on the African continent. Voted for by tens of thousands of readers, the awards showcase these two African countries’ variety of attractions and cultures to help put them as must-attend places on your travel map.
South Africa has been a perennial favorite of travelers for more than decade, with broad-based appeal. From pulsating city life to the calm of nature, India provides everything for any tourist! Botswana, well known for its massive expanses of wilderness and conservation-led tourism approach, also has a green side as an eco-friendly destination that caters to the nature lover and adventure seeker.
South Africa: Africa’s Leading Destination for Adventure and Culture
South Africa’s triumph as the best destination in (Africa) from the 2025 Telegraph Travel Awards acts a testament to its variety of attractions for visitors. Voters commended South Africa for its diverse landscapes – from Cape Town’s busy streets, to the peaceful coastal areas and wild in-land national parks.
The city destination of Cape Town was famously known for its nightlife. One of the world’s top 20 nightlife cities, Cape Town has become a center for Afro-house and amapiano music. The city’s hip clubs, and beachside parties are the cat’s meow for a diverse mix of both locals and visitors looking to experience cultural vibrancy. Cape Town is appealing for much more than its nightlife — from the natural beauty of Table Mountain to its stunning coastline and beautiful beaches, it’s an attractive destination every month of the year.
Kruger National Park, one of South Africa’s most famous wildlife reserves, continues to draw international attention for its world-class safari experiences. Voted as one of the best places to spot the “Big Five,” the park offers travelers a chance to witness the iconic African wildlife in its natural habitat. In addition, the Garden Route, known for its rugged cliffs, lush forests, and scenic views, provides a perfect balance of outdoor adventure and relaxation.
The diverse mix of urban, cultural, and natural experiences in South Africa makes it an ideal destination for all types of travelers. Whether it’s hiking in the Drakensberg Mountains, exploring vibrant Johannesburg, or experiencing the cultural richness of the Eastern Cape, South Africa continues to offer unforgettable adventures for both seasoned travelers and first-time visitors.
Botswana: A Hidden Gem in Eco-Tourism and Wilderness Conservation
Botswana being in the top 10 globally also demonstrates its success as a leading country for facilitating eco-tourism and conservation. With its unspoiled wilderness that can be found in destinations such as the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park, Botswana has long been forerunner of sustainable tourism. The country’s dedication to protecting its natural scenery and wildlife makes it a popular destination for people searching for real, unadulterated nature.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Okavango Delta is also one of world’s largest inland deltas, and you’ll be treated to scenic views in addition to the wildlife. Teeming with waterways, verdant forests and varied habitats this is indeed a paradise for birders/safari lovers. Travellers can relax on tranquil mokoro rides that travel along the delta’s meandering waterways, providing a perspective of the wildlife and environment found in this region.
In addition to the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park is home to one of the largest elephant populations in Africa. The park, known for its vast floodplains and riverfront views, provides a stunning backdrop for safaris. Botswana’s commitment to conservation ensures that these iconic animals and other species are protected, making the country a prime destination for those interested in ethical wildlife tourism.
Botswana has earned a reputation as a destination that prioritizes the environment while offering incredible experiences for nature lovers. Its focus on eco-friendly travel and responsible tourism practices sets it apart as a forward-thinking destination, making it a top choice for travelers interested in sustainability.
A Bright Future for African Tourism
The recognition of South Africa and Botswana as two of the world’s top 10 travel destinations comes at a time when African tourism is experiencing significant growth. Both countries have embraced tourism as a vital component of their economies, promoting their unique cultural, natural, and historical assets to global travelers.
For Botswana, the spotlight on its wilderness areas helps further its commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism. By drawing attention to its pristine environments and conservation efforts, the country encourages responsible travel, ensuring that future generations will also have the opportunity to experience its natural wonders.
South Africa, with its well-established tourism infrastructure, continues to be a beacon of adventure, culture, and nature in Africa. The country’s success in the Telegraph Travel Awards speaks to its ability to attract a wide range of visitors, from urban explorers in Cape Town to safari enthusiasts in Kruger National Park.
Both countries are set to benefit from their continued recognition in the 2025 Telegraph Travel Awards, which will likely boost tourist arrivals and investment in the region. South Africa and Botswana are now firmly established as leading travel destinations not only in Africa but globally.
Conclusion: The Unmissable Appeal of South Africa and Botswana
South Africa and Botswana’s wins in the 2025 Telegraph Travel Awards cement their status as two of the most extraordinary places to travel on Earth. South Africa’s diverse array of cultural diversity, exciting cities and incomparable game reserves attract visitors galore, while Botswana has concentrated on eco-tourism and conservation to make it one of the primary destinations for nature lovers.
Both countries epitomise the best of Africa, offering travellers experiences they’ll never forget that combine culture, adventure and a commitment to looking after their environment. The best part are all of the experiences you can have there, be it for touring South Africa’s beautiful cities to being in Botswana’s sensational untouched landscapes, these destinations are definitely not to be by anyone looking at their next big adventure.
Some days go by in one contented blur that is hardly distinguishable hour to hour. Sometimes the satisfyingly blur is related to physical output like a hiking day when the miles just fly by. More often than not, these soul-fulfilling days are from time spent with loved ones. Today was one of those days. Spending the day with friends who feed us with food and caring is the best kind of zeroing.
The post Day 92: All Day Feast appeared first on The Trek.
Destinations & Things To Do
Florida, California, New York and Other Rising Destinations in the US vs UK’s Top Destinations London, Edinburgh, Liverpool and More: Here is a Groundbreaking 2025 Travel Comparison of Two Powerhouses
Published on
August 7, 2025 |
By: TTW News Desk
As we move through 2025, both the United States and the United Kingdom are seeing remarkable travel booms, with tourists flocking to iconic destinations across these two powerhouse nations. From the sunny beaches of Florida and the vibrant streets of New York to the historic charm of London and the cultural richness of Edinburgh, both countries are experiencing surges in tourism. This comprehensive comparison explores how rising destinations in the US like California and Florida are drawing millions of visitors, while the UK’s top cities like London, Liverpool, and Edinburgh continue to attract travelers with their rich history, cultural experiences, and new developments. By examining the major attractions, growth patterns, and key drivers behind this travel boom, we can better understand how these global tourism leaders are shaping the future of travel in 2025.
US Travel Boom in 2025
Major Destinations in the US
Florida: Florida continues to reign as the most visited state in the US, attracting millions of tourists to its vibrant cities and picturesque coastlines. Orlando alone is expected to welcome 75 million visitors in 2025, marking a 5% increase from the previous year. Visitors flock to the state’s top attractions, including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Miami’s famous beaches, Everglades National Park, and the historic sites of Key West.
California: Despite a slight expected dip in visitation, California remains a top destination for travelers. Cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego continue to pull in millions of visitors annually. Major attractions such as Hollywood, Yosemite National Park, the Golden Gate Bridge, Disneyland, Napa Valley wineries, and the scenic coastal areas of Malibu offer diverse experiences for every type of traveler.
New York: New York City remains a major magnet for both international and domestic tourists. With over 65 million visitors projected for 2025, the city is seeing a 10% growth from the previous year. Times Square, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, Broadway shows, and world-renowned museums like The Met and MoMA remain central to the city’s broad appeal and diverse cultural offerings.
Las Vegas: Las Vegas is bouncing back in 2025, with a 12% growth in tourist arrivals. Known for its extravagant entertainment, gaming options, and luxury hotels, the city continues to be a top destination for thrill-seekers and high-rollers alike. With its bustling nightlife, world-class shows, and vibrant atmosphere, Las Vegas is a must-visit for those seeking a truly dynamic experience.
New Orleans: New Orleans, known for its rich cultural heritage, is a year-round attraction for travelers. Its vibrant music scene, historic French Quarter, and renowned festivals like Mardi Gras make it a unique and lively destination. In 2025, New Orleans is expected to see steady growth in tourism, with visitors drawn to its unique blend of history, art, food, and music.
Phoenix: Phoenix continues to gain popularity, especially during spring training baseball season and for outdoor adventures in the surrounding desert landscapes. The city’s warm weather, golf courses, and luxury resorts make it a prime location for those seeking relaxation or adventure. Visitors enjoy hiking in the nearby desert, exploring the nearby Grand Canyon, and taking in the city’s growing cultural scene.
US Air Travel Stats in 2025
Airline Growth in the US: US airlines are experiencing a 7% increase in passenger traffic in 2025, compared to 2024. Major carriers such as American Airlines, Delta, and Southwest are expanding both domestic and international routes, making travel more accessible to a broader audience. This surge in air travel is a direct reflection of the growing demand for leisure and business trips.
Growth Drivers: The growth of the airline industry is fueled by several factors. Pent-up demand from previous years, the expansion of flight routes, and a strong economic recovery are key contributors. Additionally, social media’s influence on travel trends has inspired many to explore new destinations, further boosting airline traffic.
US Hotel and Destination Stats
Hotel Growth: Hotel bookings in key US cities are experiencing a 10% year-on-year increase, with high demand in popular destinations like New York, Miami, and Orlando. These cities are seeing record-high occupancy rates as more travelers flock to experience their iconic attractions. The surge in bookings is a positive indicator of the continued growth and recovery of the US hospitality sector.
Cost: Inflation has led to rising costs for domestic flights and hotel stays, prompting some travelers to seek more budget-friendly options or shorter trips. The increase in prices has created a shift in travel preferences, with many opting for destinations closer to home to manage expenses.
UK Travel Boom in 2025
Major Destinations in the UK
London: London remains the top destination for international tourism in the UK, with an estimated 20 million visitors expected in 2025, marking a 15% increase from 2024. Iconic attractions such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, the British Museum, and the London Eye continue to draw crowds. New developments, including the expansion of the Museum of London and the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, are adding to the city’s appeal, ensuring it remains a global cultural and historical hub.
Edinburgh: Edinburgh, the Scottish capital, is experiencing a tourism boost, particularly during the summer months, with an expected 3.5 million visitors in 2025. Visitors are drawn to the city’s rich heritage, including Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Arthur’s Seat, offering a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. The annual Edinburgh Fringe Festival also attracts thousands, contributing to Edinburgh’s status as a must-visit cultural destination in the UK.
Manchester: Known for its vibrant cultural scene and music heritage, Manchester continues to grow in popularity, with a 10% increase in visitor numbers in 2025. The city offers a unique blend of modern and historical attractions, including the National Football Museum, Manchester Art Gallery, and the lively Northern Quarter. As a hub for sports and music, Manchester is a dynamic destination that draws both domestic and international tourists looking for diverse experiences.
Liverpool: Liverpool, home to the legendary Beatles, is expected to attract 4 million tourists in 2025, a 9% increase over the previous year. Visitors flock to iconic attractions like The Beatles Story, Albert Dock, and Anfield Stadium. The city’s rich musical history and maritime heritage, combined with its vibrant cultural scene, make it a top destination for both music lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Bristol: Bristol is seeing a rise in international tourism, driven by new cultural and artistic events that are transforming the city’s appeal. Key attractions include the Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol Zoo, and the popular Street Art Tour, featuring works by Banksy. With its mix of modern creativity and historical landmarks, Bristol is becoming an increasingly sought-after destination for those looking to experience a blend of art, history, and culture in the UK.
UK Air Travel Stats in 2025
Airline Growth in the UK: UK airports are experiencing an 8% increase in air passenger traffic in 2025 compared to 2024. Heathrow and Gatwick are leading the way, benefiting from expanded international routes, particularly from North America and Europe. This growth is indicative of the UK’s strong tourism recovery, driven by the return of international travelers.
Growth Drivers: Several key factors contribute to the UK’s air travel boom. The recovery from the pandemic, easing of travel restrictions, and major cultural and sporting events, such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and Premier League football matches, are all fueling the rise in international visitors and boosting overall tourism.
UK Hotel and Destination Stats
Hotel Growth: Hotel bookings in major UK cities like London, Edinburgh, and Manchester have seen a 12% increase, with boutique hotels and luxury accommodations seeing a notable rise in popularity. As tourism continues to thrive, travelers are opting for more personalized stays, contributing to the expansion of these premium options across urban centers.
Cost: The growing demand for travel, coupled with inflation, has driven up hotel and travel prices in the UK. While popular destinations see price hikes, lesser-known regions like Wales and Northern Ireland are promoting affordable alternatives, providing budget-friendly options for travelers seeking unique experiences.
Comparative Overview: US vs UK Travel Boom in 2025
| Category | United States | United Kingdom |
|---|---|---|
| Major Destinations | Florida, California, New York, National Parks | London, Edinburgh, Manchester, Liverpool |
| Visitor Numbers | 77.1 million international arrivals projected | 41.2 million international arrivals projected |
| Air Travel Growth | 15% increase in international arrivals compared to 2024 | 8% increase in international arrivals compared to 2024 |
| Tourism Spending | Over $200 billion in international visitor spending | £33.7 billion projected in 2025 |
| Key Attractions | Disney World, Grand Canyon, Statue of Liberty | Buckingham Palace, Edinburgh Castle, British Museum |
| Eco-Tourism | Yellowstone, Yosemite | Lake District, Scottish Highlands |
| Sport Tourism | Super Bowl, NBA Finals | Premier League, Wimbledon |
| Visa Policies | Stricter regulations impacting international visitors | Introduction of ETAs for non-visa nationals |
| Challenges | Decline in international tourism, geopolitical tensions | Inflation, strong currency, VAT-free shopping changes |
Comparing Travel Growth in the US and the UK
Both the US and the UK are witnessing impressive travel booms in 2025, driven by strong domestic and international demand. The US sees significant growth in popular destinations like Florida, California, and New York, with increased air travel and hotel bookings, despite rising costs. Meanwhile, the UK is seeing similar growth, particularly in London, Edinburgh, and Manchester, with robust cultural and sporting events boosting international tourism.
While both countries are thriving, the US is leading in terms of overall domestic travel spending, while the UK’s tourism boom is more reliant on international visitors. Both regions face challenges such as rising costs and airport congestion, but they remain top travel destinations globally for 2025.
I began the Colorado Trail at the Waterton Canyon Trailhead, the Denver end of the trail snake, at the beginning of August.
Embarking on this popular thru-hike has caused people to come out of the wood work, with excited expectations and experiences, with stories, with fears, and all of the hype. Whoever was talking to me, the message was clear: The CT is the best, hike it and it will be a blast from start to finish.
The state of Colorado seems to have the most hype around it too. I think stoke and hype are a currency of the place. I’m into the positivity, but because of all this build-up and lead-in to what everyone says is going to be the best thing to ever happen to me since my momma gave me life, I can only feel a little guilty that I’m going to ignore most of their talk.
I want to take this bull by the horns and realize it’s actually a moose, if you get my drift. I want to take on one of the most popular trails in the U.S. and go in pretty ignorant. I haven’t downloaded the FarOut package for the CT, nor do I know when I will, if ever. Instead, I got the handiest little databook (thank you Bitler!) for the bullet points, and will take the rest of the trail as it comes.
So far it’s working out pretty well…
Almost getting headbutted into the afterlife
I walked away from my Trail Angel for Life friend who dropped me off at the TH around 1pm. It was sprinkling off and on with thunder occasionally rolling in the distance. Despite the weather, the canyon was flat and busy with cyclists and fishermen, but I saw no other hikers like myself.
I did see an entire herd of Bighorn sheep, mostly females, including a full nursery of adorable kids. (Kids as in baby sheep.) They were adorable even as they jumped and scampered on ledges above, causing rocks and debris to rain down onto the dirt road. What an amazing encounter within my first two miles!
Within my first seven miles, I was out of the canyon, hiking switchbacks through thick and steep pine forest. A worried mountain biker passes me and warns of two big sheep he just saw on the trail, he tells me to be careful. I tell him thank you and walk with alert eyes and ears. I sing a song out loud to let whatever was out there know that I’m coming.
Too bad sheep don’t sing to let me know that they are coming… Out of nowhere barreling straight down upon me through the trees is a massive ram. Imagine the RAM truck symbol running you down in the flesh.
I remember all the wildlife signs in the canyon on how to handle encounters with sheep. First you are supposed to keep two bus lengths away from them. This ram was less than twenty feet away. So I went to the next suggestions on the list. I backed away in a panic almost slipping backwards off the trail. I put my hands up above my head to look big, and I yelled at it to STOP and BACK OFF.
He paused for a moment long enough for me to take in his heavy horns, strong shoulders, the yellow eyes and understand that I was at his mercy. He moved towards me again to the rim of the trail slope not ten feet from me. I moved until my pack was against a tree and I knew that I was stuck. If he came after me I was dead. I imagined my guts spilling, being snapped in half, and still I sternly held my hands up and yelled BACK OFF.
Somehow, he seemed to change his mind about headbutting me off the mountain and into the afterlife. He ran parallel to me from left to right and ran down the trail behind me. I didn’t stop to thank him. I jogged away, up the switchbacks knowing deep down how close I was to death. I picked up a large rock and carried it for almost two miles, afraid I might meet the second bachelor the biker had spoken of. I never did, but my paranoia was high.
I had crested the first mountain of the Colorado Trail and passed a memorial bench at the top, and I wondered if being murdered by a bighorn would get me a nice bench? I had dropped my defensive rock and was going downhill when I heard the ever nerve shattering sound of a rattle.
I leaped a few feet back to see that I had almost stepped on a young rattlesnake. Not only was it stretched across the trail, as they sometimes are, but it was also halfway through deep-throating a chipmunk. Despite my nerves being absolutely wrecked by this point, I felt bad for the little fella. Both little fellas, I guess. The munk was no longer of this world, but I had interrupted the snake’s meal at a very inconvenient time. I apologized but had a tough go on bushwhacking off trail to get around it. Once on the other side of it I looked back and the scared snake had spit out his food so as to take a defensive rattling coil. Geez I felt so bad, but at least, chipmunk excluded, we were all alive and rattled.
I continued to camp by 7:30pm at South Platte River, having hiked 17 miles for my first day on trail. I’d like to tell you how strong and brave I felt, but to be honest I was paranoid of everything in the forest up until reaching the river where there were plenty of other hikers. Besides the scary animals, I also saw three grouse/ pheasant/ forest chicken- things, hummingbirds, and mule deer. All of them scared the shit out of me. I can laugh now, but I desperately called to the heavens “thank you, but this is enough for the FIRST DAY, I think!” Colorado is fuckin’ wild.
Du-du-duh spaghetti…
Within the first few days I cruised right into a little group of hikers who have kept me in wonderful company. Our daily mileage runs from 17 – 20 depending on the general feeling, and they made my first hundred miles on the CT incredibly fulfilling.
Georgia Pass came and went like the gusts of wind that blew us around up there. We dunked our sunburnt bodies in cold creeks, and groaned and moaned together around evening camps.
One of our group has a funny saying, “Slow and steady gets the spaghetti.” He mumbles it while he is hiking particularly challenging terrain. It makes me laugh so hard that I can’t breathe for some reason. I bring it up to you all because that hard laughter is exactly why I hike.
I give myself permission to laugh until I cry and be goofy when I’m hiking. It comes out of me so readily when I’m “Whistles” on a trail. I love finding people who encourage that spirit in me, and trail always seems to gather those very people.
I’m grateful for my early CT trail family even as I may be pushing on ahead of them soon. I hope they continue hiking for their own enjoyment and self-discovery as I will!
The Hype Is REAL!
Colorado is awesome, but everyone already knows that. I’m seeing it for myself with as open and unbiased of a mind as I can muster. I’ll be honest with the good, the bad, and the stuff I never want my mom to know about.
After awhile and some miles!
Whistles
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