With 2024’s travel goals in the rearview, now is the time for travelers to refresh their bucket lists with more meaningful journeys for 2025. According to trend reports from Expedia and Booking.com, vacationers are moving away from crowded global hot spots toward tranquil, lesser-known destinations that provide space for relaxation and reflection. The travel landscape in 2025 will focus on personal growth, with an emphasis on wellness, eco-conscious tourism, and meaningful experiences that prioritize the quality of travel over quantity.
Anyone drawn to these travel trends should read on — Guam might just be the ideal place to add to next year’s bucket list.
Places like Guam are uniquely positioned to provide it all. Just approximately 3.5 hours away from Manila, Guam has a year-round temperate climate with only two seasons, making it a perfect destination for any month of the year. Its blend of relaxing beaches, adventure spots, and cultural immersion means there’s something for everyone, no matter their age, whether traveling solo, with friends, or with family.
Note that Guam, being a U.S. territory, requires a U.S. visa for most international travelers. It’s wise to start preparations two to three months ahead of your anticipated travel date for a smooth journey to paradise.
Embrace the opportunity to kick off 2025 with a truly refreshing experience. Here are the top reasons Guam should be at the top of your travel list.
Lots of off-the-beaten-path destinations, clear waters, and less crowded places to choose from
Guam’s pristine waters and lush landscapes make it ideal for travelers seeking less crowded destinations. Its coral reefs, some of the Pacific’s most stunning and vibrant, are accessible through several local scuba companies offering beginner to advanced dive experiences. 
Waterfalls like Tarzan Falls provide scenic half-day adventures; for a more secluded outing, San Carlos Falls and Priest’s Pools offer spectacular natural infinity pools and serene swim holes. Visitors may also try hiking Guam’s highest peak, Mt. Lamlam. Guam Boonie Stompers, a non-profit hiking group, is a great resource for safe, hiking tours.
Guam’s immersive eco-tours
Guam’s ecotourism scene emphasizes sustainability through its preservation efforts. At Piti Bay Marine Preserve, snorkeling tours reveal over 200 fish species in their protected habitat. The Eco Snorkeling tour allows guests to explore the bay’s rich marine life, accessible directly from a sea bridge.
Additionally, a dolphin-watching cruise offers a unique chance to observe Guam’s resident spinner dolphins up close. These daily cruises give travelers a chance to witness playful dolphins in their natural habitat, contributing to Guam’s commitment to sustainable tourism while offering unforgettable encounters with nature.
Thrilling experiences the island offers
With Guam’s various thrilling activities, there’s never a boring day when visiting the island. From its beaches to historical attractions and local festivities, Guam is a place fit for every type of traveler. Its clear blue waters provide a paradise for beach lovers with a variety of adventures including swimming, beach hopping, snorkeling, parasailing, paddleboarding, scuba diving and so much more. After these exciting adventures, tourists can unwind on white sandy beaches while watching the picturesque sunset against Guam’s serene ocean.
A visit to the island, whether on a solo trip or with family and friends, always promises an unforgettable adventure waiting to be discovered. Tourists may rent a car to cruise around the island and explore different attractions such as the island’s first Catholic church, the Dulce Nombre de Maria Cathedral-Basilica; the only surviving Spanish fort in Hagåtña, Fort Apugan (Santa Agueda); or play golf at the Mangilao Golf Club which ranks among the top 100 courses in the world.
Travelers can also learn more about Guam’s rich history and unique culture by visiting the Guam Museum. Guests can enjoy a night that tantalizes all senses, from delicious local cuisine to mesmerizing cultural performances that showcase Guam’s rich heritage. To fully experience Guam’s vibrant customs, tourists should not miss the village festivals taking place at various times of the year such as the Latte Peace Festival in January. Liberation Day and the Guam Micronesia Island Fair, are also events to look forward to as they reflect the history and celebrate the culture of the CHamoru.
Taste the flavors of Guam
No trip to Guam is complete without indulging in delicious CHamoru dishes. At the top of the list is Red Rice, which gets its vibrant color and enticing aroma from achiote or annatto seeds. Another must-try is Kådun Pika, a spicy stew made of chicken marinated in vinegar, pepper, soy sauce, garlic, and onion.
Don’t miss Hågun Suni, a vegetable dish made with spinach cooked in coconut milk. For seafood lovers, Shrimp Patties are a delight - soft fried fritters loaded with shrimp and vegetables. These dishes showcase the rich flavors of Guam’s cuisine and reflect the diverse culinary influences that shape the island.
An array of shopping stores
Guam also offers tax-free shopping deals that tourists will love. Whether you are treating yourself or picking up souvenirs for loved ones, duty-free shopping here offers a wide array of luxury goods and unique finds at fantastic prices. Tumon is the home of an array of high-end brand boutiques housed in notable locations like The DFS Guam Galleria, The Plaza, and Tumon Sands Plaza. Beyond Tumon, Guam offers even more shopping opportunities with three major malls - the Guam Premier Outlets in Tamuning, the Micronesia Mall in Dededo, and the Agana Shopping Center in Hagåtña. Each mall has its unique character. Recently, Guam welcomed The Village of Donki, the largest Don Don Donki across Japan, the Asia-Pacific region, Hawaii, and California, enhancing Guam’s shopping experience even further.
Guam offers a relaxing and wellness-centered destination
Wellness tourism takes a meaningful turn in 2025 as travelers are focusing on experiences that promote long-term health benefits. It's not just about physical rejuvenation; destinations offering holistic well-being are also in demand. Guam is an ideal destination, offering a sanctuary for relaxation that features everything from traditional massages and reflexology to comprehensive spa treatments and therapeutic Jacuzzis.
For a complete recharge, Guam’s resort spas offer tranquil spaces surrounded by the island’s natural beauty, ideal for meditative practices and relaxation.
These are just a few reasons to consider adding Guam to your 2025 travel bucket list. It is a destination that allows tourists to spend quality time with loved ones while enjoying a convenient one-stop destination for emerging travel trends. With its unique experiences and activities, Guam is a less-explored paradise that offers memorable adventures year-round, thanks to its two distinct seasons. No matter when you visit, you’ll be welcomed by the island’s warm and friendly locals.
For more information, visit Guam’s official website at www.visitguam.com.