Anyone who’s followed this blog for any amount of time knows that I like to make fun of those end-of-year lists where travel experts predict which will be the coming year’s hottest destinations.
Instead of pretending to know what places will be popular and trying to justify my choices with nonsense reasons why, I prefer to create lists using random generators that spit out country names and pretend those places are the ones to be in the next 12 months. In recent years, I’ve been looking to see if AI can develop lists as good as the experts, or at least better than random ones.
This year, I’m trying again to see whether AI-chosen destinations are more interesting than ones simply selected at random.
Here are five that the random country generator selected:
Hungary
Hungary is a top destination for 2025 with its rich history, vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. Start in Budapest, known for its thermal baths like Széchenyi and Gellért. Wander through Buda Castle and enjoy a Danube River cruise to see the Parliament Building illuminated at night. Visit Eger for its historic castles and wine cellars, and don’t miss the charming town of Szentendre with its colourful streets and art galleries. Hungary’s festivals, such as the Budapest Wine Festival and Sziget Music Festival, add to its allure.
Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands offer breathtaking landscapes and a tranquil atmosphere, making them a perfect destination for 2025. Explore the dramatic cliffs of Vestmanna Bird Cliffs and hike to the stunning Múlafossur Waterfall in Gásadalur. Visit the charming village of Gjógv, known for its picturesque harbour and colourful houses. The islands’ unique wildlife, including puffins and seals, is a big attraction. Don’t miss the chance to attend the traditional Faroe Islands Summer Festival for a taste of local culture and music.
Oman
Oman stands out as a must-visit destination in 2025 due to its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Explore the ancient forts and bustling souks of Muscat and relax on the pristine beaches of Salalah. Embark on a desert adventure in the Wahiba Sands, where you can try dune bashing and experience a night under the stars in a Bedouin camp. Visit the historic Nizwa Fort and the stunning Wadi Shab, a lush oasis perfect for hiking and swimming. Oman’s warm hospitality and unique experiences make it a captivating travel destination.
Saint Martin
Saint Martin offers a unique blend of Caribbean charm and European sophistication. Relax on the island’s beautiful beaches like Orient Bay and Maho Beach, famous for low-flying planes landing at the airport just beyond. Indulge in gourmet French cuisine in Grand Case, known as the culinary capital of the Caribbean. Explore the exciting nightlife in Marigot, the island’s French capital, and enjoy duty-free shopping. If you can time your visit, the island’s lively festivals, such as the Heineken Regatta and Carnival, are worth your attention.
Korea (Republic of)
South Korea is an exciting destination for 2025, offering a perfect blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation. Visit Seoul to explore its bustling markets like Myeongdong and Dongdaemun, historic palaces such as Gyeongbokgung and cutting-edge attractions like the Lotte World Tower. Head to Busan for its beautiful beaches, seafood markets and the colourful Gamcheon Culture Village. Discover the serene temples and scenic landscapes of Gyeongju, known as the museum without walls. Don’t miss Jeju Island for its volcanic landscapes and unique cultural experiences.
This is what Microsoft’s Copilot AI came up with:
Australia
Australia continues to enchant travellers with its diverse landscapes and unique wildlife. In 2025, explore the vibrant cities of Sydney and Melbourne, the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and the rugged beauty of the Outback. Australia’s rich Indigenous culture and world-class cuisine make it a must-visit destination.
Japan
Japan offers a perfect mix of ancient traditions and cutting-edge technology. In 2025, visit Tokyo for its bustling city life, Kyoto for its historic temples and Hokkaido for its stunning natural scenery. The country’s unique festivals, delicious cuisine and warm hospitality will make your trip unforgettable.
Quebec City
Canada’s Quebec City, with its cobblestone streets and historic architecture, offer European charm right in North America. In 2025, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Quebec, indulge in the local cuisine and enjoy the vibrant cultural scene. The city’s winter carnival and summer festivals make it a year-round destination.
Dubai
Dubai continues to dazzle with its architectural wonders and luxurious experiences. In 2025, visit the iconic Burj Khalifa, shop at the world’s largest malls and explore the surrounding desert landscapes. Dubai’s blend of modernity and tradition makes it a fascinating destination for all types of travellers.
Italy
Italy is a timeless destination that never ceases to amaze. In 2025, explore the ancient ruins of Rome, the artistic treasures of Florence and the romantic canals of Venice. Italy’s rich history, culinary delights, and picturesque landscapes ensure an unforgettable travel experience.
Conclusion
Like last year, the randomly generated list of destinations was a lot more interesting than the ones the AI selected. Don’t get me wrong, I’d love to visit Australia or Japan, but they seem pretty safe as choices compared to places like the Faroe Islands or Oman. In a lot of ways, the AI list resembles the destinations that are popular with the editors at several mainstream travel publications this year which makes sense if AIs are training on publicly available information online.
What do you think of the choices? Do you prefer the AI list or the random one? Try the experiment for yourself. Generate your own list of places to visit at https://www.randomlists.com/random-country?qty=10&dup=false then ask your favourite AI tool to make some selections for you then compare the two.
Better yet, put on a blindfold, spin a globe and point your finger at at. Where it stops is where you go next, although chances are your finger will land at a spot in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.
