Monday, July 28, 2025
Japan, Brazil, Vietnam, Ecuador, Morocco, South Korea Among Hotspots As The Allure of International Travel Grows Destinations across the planet have seen a surge in nighttime arrivals with Japan, Brazil, Vietnam, Ecuador, Morocco and South Korea leading the way as global tourism arrives on our shores in record numbers by 2025. These countries are the source of an overwhelming surge in visitors, driven by factors ranging from rich culture, scenic beauty and new types of travel. Japan Japan never ceases to fascinate with the blend of its ancient culture and its ultramodern digital art even as Brazil’s vivid cities and exquisite natural landscapes entice millions of visitors. Their countries have rich heritage, including varied attractions in Vietnam and unique biodiversity in Ecuador, which also enhances their global appeal. Morocco’s timeless cities and breathtaking desert scenery are still drawing tourists, and South Korea’s juxtaposition of modernity and tradition keeps it on the radar as well. Not just are these nations witnessing a growth in visitors, but are emerging on the world stage, influencing what travel might look like for the rest of the world by 2025.
Paraguay, Brazil, and Chile See Major Tourism Growth
The World Tourism Barometer tracks international arrivals for the first quarter of 2025 and compares them to the same period in 2024. Leading the way in South America, Paraguay has witnessed a remarkable 53% increase in international visitors. Once considered a relatively underexplored destination, Paraguay is now emerging as a must-visit spot for tourists. The country’s UNESCO-listed Jesuit missions, rich Guaraní heritage, and breathtaking landscapes like Ybycui National Park are drawing more attention than ever before.
Brazil, the largest country in South America, has also seen significant growth, with a 48% rise in international tourism. Brazil’s world-renowned beaches, vibrant cities such as Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, and the immense Amazon rainforest remain top attractions. Likewise, Chile, famous for its diverse terrain ranging from the Atacama Desert to the glaciers of Patagonia, has reported a 48% increase in tourism as well.
Ecuador and Curaçao Gaining Popularity
Other destinations seeing impressive increases are Ecuador and Curaçao, each experiencing a 17% growth in visitors. Ecuador, which earned the Destination of the Year title in 2024, is renowned for its Galápagos Islands, colonial-era cities like Quito, and its rich biodiversity. Ecuador’s blend of natural wonders and cultural heritage continues to attract tourists looking for adventure and cultural immersion.
Curaçao, a tropical gem in the Caribbean, is also seeing growth, as its stunning beaches, vibrant local culture, and Dutch Caribbean heritage appeal to a growing number of international tourists. Known for its excellent diving spots, Curaçao is becoming increasingly popular among travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Europe Continues to Recover
While South America leads the tourism surge, Europe is also showing strong signs of recovery. North Macedonia, which offers a unique blend of historical landmarks and natural beauty, reports a 22% increase in international arrivals. Lithuania follows closely with a 21% rise, thanks to its picturesque landscapes, medieval architecture, and dynamic arts scene.
Other European countries experiencing growth include Malta (+19%), Latvia (+16%), and Finland (+15%). Malta’s Mediterranean charm, rich history, and pristine beaches continue to attract visitors, while Latvia and Finland benefit from their balance of vibrant cities and stunning natural scenery.
Asia-Pacific Sees Significant Growth
The Asia-Pacific region is also experiencing a surge in tourism. Vietnam stands out with a 30% increase in international arrivals, driven by its rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and scenic coastline. Japan, which remains one of the world’s most visited destinations, reports a 23% increase in tourism, further fueled by the country’s unique blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge technology, including innovative digital art museums.
Palau, a small island nation known for its crystal-clear waters and exceptional diving opportunities, is also experiencing a rise in visitors, with a 20% growth. South Korea, with its rich history and modern appeal, continues to attract more international tourists, marking a 14% increase in visitors.
Middle East and Africa Tourism Boost
The Middle East and Africa are also benefiting from increased tourism. Egypt, with its ancient wonders such as the pyramids and Luxor temples, has seen a 21% rise in visitors. Iran, known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes, reports a 14% increase in tourism.
In Africa, The Gambia stands out with a remarkable 48% growth in international arrivals, driven by its vibrant culture, eco-tourism opportunities, and coastal beauty. Morocco also continues to see rising numbers, with a 22% increase in tourism, fueled by its historical cities, mountains, deserts, and thriving markets.
Post-Pandemic Tourism Growth
The World Tourism Barometer also examines how destinations have recovered since the COVID-19 pandemic. Several countries have surpassed pre-pandemic tourism levels, including Curaçao (+69%), Brazil (+63%), Malta (+63%), Morocco (+60%), Egypt (+40%), and The Gambia (+34%). These destinations have shown resilience and adaptability, bouncing back quickly and offering travelers a chance to rediscover their charm.
Additionally, some countries have experienced substantial growth since 2019. Qatar, with a 158% increase, has seen a significant boost thanks to the 2022 World Cup. Albania (+136%) and Saudi Arabia (+102%) have also experienced remarkable growth, while El Salvador has seen a 93% rise in tourism.
Featured on the 2025 Good to Go List
Many of the destinations that have shown impressive growth—such as El Salvador, Japan, Lithuania, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia—are now featured on the 2025 Good to Go List, a recognition that signals their growing appeal among international travelers. These countries are expected to be some of the most sought-after destinations in the coming year, offering a diverse range of experiences, from historical and cultural exploration to natural wonders and modern attractions.
As global tourism recovers, these emerging destinations are poised to capture the attention of travelers in 2025. Whether it’s South America’s untapped gems, the historical richness of the Middle East, or the scenic beauty of Asia-Pacific, travelers have an exciting array of options to explore. With a strong focus on cultural, natural, and modern experiences, these destinations are redefining what it means to be a top tourist destination in the post-pandemic world.
