Gen Z's Travel Revolution in 2025: Ditching Tourist Traps for Hidden Gems

Why Gen Z Is Skipping Santorini & Bali for These Hidden Gems in 2025

If you think Gen Z is following in the footsteps of previous generations when it comes to travel, think again. In 2025, we’re rewriting the rules—ditching the overhyped, overcrowded destinations and trading them in for places with raw, unfiltered beauty. Gone are the days when Santorini and Bali were the only acceptable dream spots. Instead, we’re curating travel experiences that feel real, sustainable, and off the beaten path.

As a digital nomad who’s been to 84 countries (and counting), I’ve watched this shift happen firsthand. Gen Z isn’t just traveling for the aesthetic; we’re seeking experiences that connect us to culture, nature, and communities. So where are we heading in 2025? And what’s driving this shift? Let’s dive in.

From Tourist Traps to Unexpected Gems

The classic bucket-list destinations are starting to lose their shine. Don’t get me wrong—Santorini is gorgeous, and Bali’s beaches will always be a vibe. But with overtourism, rising costs, and the hunt for more authentic experiences, Gen Z travelers are looking elsewhere.

Here are some of the unexpected places topping Gen Z's 2025 travel lists:

• Anchorage, Alaska – Perfect for adventure lovers who want to experience raw nature, glaciers, and the Northern Lights without the crowds.
• Oaxaca, Mexico – A more intimate and authentic alternative to Mexico City, offering incredible food, indigenous culture, and rich history.
• The Azores, Portugal – Think volcanic craters, untouched landscapes, and a sustainability-focused travel scene.
• Sumba, Indonesia – A quieter, less commercialized alternative to Bali with stunning beaches and cultural richness.
• Scotland, UK – Scenic landscapes, ancient castles, and vibrant culture make it a must-visit for those seeking history with a side of adventure.
• Rhodes, Greece – Offering a mix of medieval history, stunning architecture, and a more laid-back atmosphere than Mykonos or Santorini.
• Morocco’s Atlas Mountains & Atlantic Coast – Moving beyond Marrakech, Gen Z is heading into the mountains and the coastal regions for a more immersive experience.

The 'Why' Behind the Shift

1. The Rise of Slow Travel

For years, the travel industry has promoted the idea of seeing as many places as possible in a short amount of time. But Gen Z is over the fast-paced, tourist checklist approach. Instead of hopping from city to city, we’re embracing slow travel—spending more time in fewer places, fully immersing ourselves in the local culture, and building meaningful experiences.

Think about it: Would you rather spend two rushed days in Rome, cramming in tourist attractions, or a month in a small Italian village, getting to know the community, learning the language, and enjoying authentic home-cooked meals? The choice is obvious.

Slow travel also allows for deeper cultural appreciation. Instead of staying in a resort that feels like every other resort in the world, we’re living with host families in Oaxaca, volunteering on sustainable farms in Portugal, or working remotely in a small coastal town in Greece. By doing so, we’re moving away from surface-level tourism and actually experiencing a place in a way that stays with us long after we’ve left.

2. Social Media as a Travel Guide

Forget guidebooks—Gen Z’s main source of travel inspiration? Social media. In 2025, 58% of Gen Z travelers use platforms like TikTok and Instagram to discover new destinations, and this is completely changing which places get attention.

The algorithm is favoring hidden gems over mainstream locations, and one viral video is enough to skyrocket an under-the-radar destination into a must-visit hotspot. A stunning waterfall in Albania? A locally run eco-lodge in Sri Lanka? A hidden island off the coast of Japan? If it’s visually appealing and culturally rich, it’s bound to catch fire online.

But beyond inspiration, social media also reshapes how we plan trips. TikTok trends, travel vlogs, and real-time reviews make it easier to:

• Find off-the-beaten-path experiences instead of overcrowded tourist traps.
• Connect with local guides and independent businesses rather than relying on corporate chains.
• Discover budget-friendly and sustainable travel options that align with our values.

3. Sustainable & Ethical Travel

Gen Z isn’t just traveling for the sake of it—we care about how we travel. With climate change and over-tourism becoming bigger concerns, sustainability is a major factor in our travel decisions.Over 56% of Gen Z travelers prefer eco-friendly accommodations, and an increasing number are choosing:

• Carbon-offset flights to reduce their environmental footprint.
• Sustainable stays, such as eco-lodges or locally-owned guesthouses.
• Experiences that give back, like conservation projects or community-based tourism.

One destination leading the charge? The Azores, Portugal—an island region that has positioned itself as a leader in green tourism. With a strong focus on protecting its environment, reducing waste, and promoting responsible travel, the Azores has become a favorite among Gen Z travelers looking to reduce their impact while still enjoying breathtaking landscapes.

‍4. The Budget Factor

‍Let’s be real—traveling isn’t cheap, and inflation hasn’t made it any easier. Traditional tourist hubs like Paris, New York, and Tokyo come with inflated prices, expensive hotels, and overpriced attractions, making them less appealing to a cost-conscious generation.Instead, Gen Z is opting for more affordable, underrated destinations that offer better value for money. Take Sumba, Indonesia, for example—a stunning island with beautiful beaches, rich cultural traditions, and fewer crowds than Bali. A week here will cost a fraction of what you’d spend in more mainstream locations, but with a more authentic and unspoiled experience.Budget-conscious choices aren’t just about location, though. Gen Z is also:

• Using flight comparison tools to find cheaper travel options.
• Choosing public transportation over expensive taxis or rentals.
• Booking extended stays in one place rather than jumping between multiple destinations (which cuts down on costs).

5. The Digital Nomad Lifestyle

Remote work has completely changed the way we travel. In 2025, more Gen Z travelers than ever are designing their trips around flexibility, staying in budget-friendly, culture-rich places while working online.Destinations like Oaxaca (Mexico) and Rhodes (Greece) are becoming Gen Z hotspots—not just for their beauty, but for their affordable cost of living, strong WiFi, and welcoming local communities. Instead of taking a two-week vacation, we’re spending months at a time abroad, blending work and exploration in a way that previous generations never could.The rise of digital nomad visas in places like Portugal, Thailand, and Indonesia has also made it easier than ever to live and work abroad legally. This means Gen Z is shaping the future of travel by making it a long-term lifestyle, not just a short-term escape.

How We're Traveling in 2025

• More Trips, Shorter Stays – The average Gen Z traveler takes three leisure trips a year, with most trips lasting 2-6 nights—the perfect balance between adventure and affordability.
• Direct Online Bookings – Forget travel agents; we’re booking flights and stays through direct online platforms for transparency and convenience.
• Spontaneity Rules – Many Gen Z travelers don’t plan every detail in advance, instead leaving room for last-minute changes and unexpected experiences.

The Future of Gen Z Travel

2025 is proving that Gen Z isn’t here for cookie-cutter vacations. We’re trading in influencer-approved hotspots for places that tell a story, offer a connection, and keep it real. Whether it’s hiking volcanic craters in the Azores or sipping mezcal in Oaxaca, this generation is all about seeking experiences that feel authentic.

So, if you’re planning your next adventure, maybe it’s time to skip the obvious and take the road less traveled. Trust me, that’s where the magic happens.

Stay tuned for more travel insights from the wild world of Gen Z adventures at Woke Waves Magazine.

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