A new study reveals the best warm-weather escapes for 2025

The Maldives took this year's top spot.

By Amanda Teague Published January 16, 2025

Shoreline of Kelingking Beach, Bali — Kelingking Beach, Bali felfin felfin / Unsplash

Looking to trade the winter chill for sunshine? A new study by Arka has revealed the top ten warm-weather destinations for a perfect winter escape in 2025. The ranking was based on key factors including average winter temperatures, hours of sunshine, and sea temperatures to determine the best climates. It also considered popularity and affordability, using data on annual international visitors, hotel prices for luxury stays, and Instagram hashtags to gauge travel trends and social buzz.

The Maldives

The Maldives — SuzyT / Pixabay

The Maldives takes the number one spot with an impressive score of 91, thanks to its balmy average winter temperature of 81°F and its reputation for luxury. Though hotel rates average $726.30 per night, making it a splurge-worthy destination, it continues to attract high-end travelers seeking unparalleled tropical beauty. Visitors to the Maldives can enjoy a range of activities, from snorkeling and diving in coral reefs full of marine life to indulging in private overwater villa experiences.

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Phuket, Thailand

Phuket — Hoochuu / Pixabay

Phuket, Thailand, secures second place with a score of 90.6, attracting an impressive 36 million international visitors each year, the highest among the top destinations. Its inviting sea temperatures of 82°F and more affordable luxury stays, averaging $343.80 per night, make it a popular choice for sun-seekers. With 12.4 million Instagram hashtags, Phuket is frequently featured by travelers around the world.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali beach — Dimitri Dim / Pexels

In third place is Bali, Indonesia, with an overall score of 90.4. Bali stands out as the most Instagrammed destination on the list, with a staggering 74.3 million hashtags. Visitors can explore Bali’s rice terraces in Ubud, relax on beaches like Nusa Dua and Seminyak, or marvel at the iconic sea temple of Tanah Lot. Bali also offers excellent value, with luxury accommodations averaging just $130.10 per night.

The best warm-weather escapes: The full list

Anse Source d’Argent, La Digue, Seychelles — xoracio / Pixabay

The Maldives
Phuket, Thailand
Bali, Indonesia
Goa, India
The Seychelles
Boracay, The Phillippines
The Bahamas
Cape Town, South Africa
San Pedro, Belize
Maputo, Mozambique

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Destinations

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Amanda, an accomplished freelance writer featured in several online publications, is a dedicated explorer of both the world…

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This American city was just named the best food city in the world

New Orleans, Louisiana took the top spot

Bourbon Street, New Orleans

Time Out has officially crowned New Orleans, Louisiana, as the best food city in the world for 2025. The annual ranking, based on thousands of local opinions, placed the Southern city at the top, with an impressive 93% of residents praising its dining scene – the third-highest local rating on the entire list.

New Orleans’ culinary excellence comes from its rich heritage, blending French, Spanish, Vietnamese, and African influences into a uniquely bold and flavorful cuisine. Locals and visitors alike indulge in iconic dishes such as seafood gumbo, jambalaya, po’boys, and powdered-sugar-dusted beignets. The city’s love for food extends beyond its famous restaurants, with cozy street vendors, busy seafood markets, and an ever-evolving fine-dining scene.

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These are the top campgrounds in America, according to the 2025 Campspot Awards

Verde Ranch RV Resort in Camp Verde, Arizona, took the top spot

Verde Ranch RV Resort in Camp Verde, Arizona

The results are in! The 2025 Campspot Awards have officially crowned the top campgrounds in North America, highlighting the best places to pitch a tent, park an RV, or indulge in a little luxury glamping. With over 3 million data points analyzed, this year’s list features campgrounds that offer unforgettable outdoor experiences.

Taking the top spot this year is Verde Ranch RV Resort in Camp Verde, Arizona, a dream destination for every kind of camper. From full hookup RV sites to furnished vacation cottages and even glamping in Conestoga Wagons and Luxury Safari Tents, this resort has it all. Plus, with a heated pool, hot tubs, a fitness center, and more, you’ll never run out of things to do. And with its prime location just off Interstate 17, Verde Ranch makes a great base for exploring the Grand Canyon, Sedona, and beyond.
Other key findings

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New data reveals the best destinations to visit before summer crowds arrive

Los Angeles, Washington D.C., and San Francisco are shoulder season gems

Birds at the beach in Venice, Los Angeles, California

As we approach the summer season, travel experts are highlighting the benefits of shoulder season travel. According to the latest report from Dollar Flight Club, this sweet spot between peak vacation months offers travelers some of the best airfare deals and fewer crowds.

Jesse Neugarten, Founder of Dollar Flight Club, explains that “the weeks tucked between high-demand holidays and peak vacation months offer some of the best deals on airfare. With fewer crowds and moderate weather, airlines often reduce fares to encourage bookings.”