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Travel + Leisure
08-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
These Are the Best New York City Hotels for 2025—and No. 1 Has a Restaurant Locals Love
Whether you're in Broadway or Brighton Beach, hanging out at Queens Night Market or Governors Island, running out of things to do in New York, well, just isn't a thing. This is the city that never sleeps—nor do the hotels that choose to do business here, planting their flags in one of the country's most competitive markets. A great NYC hotel can be a jumping off point to explore world-class museums and creative restaurants, but it can also be a haven to hole up in, cosseted in expensive sheets and room service menus. This year's list proves that our readers still crave a well-loved brand, where exceptional service is a must. Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe—to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 180,000 T+L readers completed the 2025 survey. A total of more than 657,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.). Hotels were classified as either resort hotel, city hotel, inn, or safari lodge based on their location and amenities, and they were specifically rated on the criteria below: Rooms/facilities Location Service Food Value For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses. In 2025, Travel + Leisure readers realigned their list of favorite New York City hotels: None of last year's top 10 returned for this year's list, a true testament to the city's high-quality, constantly evolving scene. Voters appreciated the Mandarin Oriental, New York (No. 9) for its 'stunning views of Central Park,' and the 'warm team [that] always makes you feel welcome' at Hotel Barrière Fouquet's New York (No. 3). Overall, classics performed best this year, like Four Seasons Hotel New York (No. 4), which one reader described as 'exactly what I envision a luxury hotel to be.' But first place went to a relative newcomer, The Fifth Avenue Hotel, the Martin Brudnizki-designed maximalist property in NoMad. Read on for the reasons why. The Fifth Avenue Hotel Interior of a guest room at The Fifth Avenue Hotel. Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure "Everything was on point from the moment I walked in the door until I left a week later,' said one voter of NoMad's gem-toned hotel that opened in late 2023. Since its doors opened, it made a dramatic splash—and so did its small martinis at the cozy, amber Portrait Bar. One called it 'beautiful decorated with an intoxicating fragrance,' and another noted, 'they actually think of everything.' (We assume 'everything' includes the Dyson hair-dryers and complimentary 'maxi'-bars found within each room.) The Fifth Avenue also has the not-so-common distinction of delivering a great experience for out-of-towners, or those looking for a staycation, one reader noted. And even if they're not spending the night, New Yorkers and savvy travelers tend to cross paths at the ebullient Café Carmellini over chef Andrew Carmellini's duck tortellini and squab en croute. 1. The Fifth Avenue Hotel Reader Score: 94.82 2. Gansevoort Meatpacking NYC Reader Score: 94.71 3. Hotel Barrière Fouquet's New York Reader Score: 94.13 4. Four Seasons Hotel New York Reader Score: 93.64 5. The Mark Reader Score: 93.50 6. The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park Reader Score: 93.45 7. Andaz 5th Avenue Reader Score: 93.00 8. The Plaza Reader Score: 92.97 9. Mandarin Oriental, New York Reader Score: 92.89 10. Soho Grand Hotel Reader Score: 92.21
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Travel + Leisure
08-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
Travel + Leisure Readers' 10 Favorite Cities in Central and South America of 2025
Well-preserved history, culinary prowess, and genuine connection—those are the qualities driving Travel + Leisure readers' votes when choosing their favorite cities in Central and South America for the 2025 edition of the World's Best Awards. And while they know the value of a trip or experience isn't inherently tied to dollar signs (or Colombian pesos, or Peruvian soles … you get the drift), they do gravitate toward cities where they feel like their time, energy, and, yes, money are all well spent. It tracks, then, that their picks in this region are dynamic urban destinations with strong cultural scenes, friendly residents, and a plethora of dining options. Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe—to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 180,000 T+L readers completed the 2025 survey. A total of more than 657,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.). Cities were specifically rated on the criteria below: Sights/landmarks Culture Food Friendliness Shopping Value For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses. Plaza de Armas in Cuzco, Peru. Maria Ligaya/Travel + Leisure This year was nearly a clean sweep for cities in South America. Peru's capital, Lima (No. 4), remains a favorite for its eclectic architecture, vibrant arts and culture, and a gastronomic scene that's only getting better thanks, in part, to the buzzy Barranco neighborhood. In Colombia, No. 9 Cartagena was lauded for its affordable culinary and cultural offerings. 'There was so much to see and do, with its historical sites, museums, and the walled Old Town area,' says one reader. 'The people were enchantingly warm and friendly everywhere we went. Food and music in Getsemani and the Old Town area were excellent, with abundant choices that were very reasonably priced.' With 2024's No. 10 Panama City falling off the list, this year's Central America's sole honoree is No. 3 Antigua Guatemala—a fixture among T+L readers' favorites and 2021's No. 1. Like its South American counterparts, the city was a hit with World's Best Awards voters thanks to the breadth of experiences to be had, as well as the hospitality of its people. 'Beautiful city, stunning architecture, and excellent food. Warm, friendly locals and plenty to do in the area, from sightseeing to hiking volcanoes,' shares another voter. 'One of our favorite experiences was a visit to a local Mayan family's home where we prepared breakfast in their outdoor kitchen and learned about the textiles which the women craft.' But for the third year running, Cuzco emerged at T+L readers No. 1 pick. Read on to find out why. Cuzco, Peru Cityscape of Cuzco, Peru. Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure Once the seat of power for the Incan Empire, the Andean city serves as a common jumping-off point for trips to Machu Picchu, but it's worth a visit in its own right. 'Cuzco is a very cool city. The history goes back centuries and the ambiance is amazing,' summarizes one voter. 'It has layers, with restaurants and shopping in the center square and hiking and cultural adventures out toward the mountains. Nightlife and food is totally worth visiting for—there's so much to do and discover.' Grab a coffee before walking around to see Plaza de Armas and other historic sights in town, but set aside time for the hikes and ruins just outside the city. The 15th-century fortress Sacsayhuaman is a 15-minute walk from the plaza, while Vinicunca, the famed Rainbow Mountain roughly 3 hours by car, is worth a day trip. 1. Cuzco, Peru WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 90.33 2. Mendoza, Argentina Reader Score: 88.41 3. Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 84.95 4. Lima, Peru Reader Score: 84.71 5. São Paulo, Brazil Reader Score: 83.89 6. Buenos Aires, Argentina WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 82.75 7. Bogotá, Colombia WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 82.55 8. Quito, Ecuador Reader Score: 81.83 9. Cartagena, Colombia Reader Score: 81.80 10. Rio de Janeiro, BrazilReader Score: 80.74
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Travel + Leisure
08-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
This Is the No. 1 Island in South America for 2025—and It's a 25-time Consecutive Winner
This category of the World's Best Awards, covering more than half of the Americas, is so culturally and ecologically diverse that its islands are almost impossible to compare. But there seems to be a favorite slice among Travel + Leisure readers: Many of the top islands, according to this year's survey, are clustered together on the edge of the Caribbean, all within reach of the massive Mesoamerican Reef. Interestingly, though, the winner takes us to a very different latitude—and an ecosystem unlike anywhere else. Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe—to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 180,000 T+L readers completed the 2025 survey. A total of more than 657,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.). Islands were specifically rated on the criteria below: Natural attractions/beaches Activities/sights Restaurants/food People/friendliness Value For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses. Penguins on the coast of the Galapagos Islands. Sharyn Umaña-Angers/Travel + Leisure Four of the top five islands on this year's list are located in the Caribbean Sea, in a stretch of southern Mexico and Central America beloved by travelers for budget-friendly beach vacations and world-class snorkeling and diving. Belize is the only country with two winners, which include Caye Caulker (No. 2), popular with backpackers and SCUBA enthusiasts. 'This place is a treasure,' wrote one survey respondent, who praised the island's famous nature activities and the dining scene: 'The food is varied and great, with lobster, shrimp, conch, snapper, and ceviche galore. And the best rum in the world, as well.' Also popular as a dive destination is Roatán (No. 5), in Honduras, though most visitors come to the island as a short stop during a Caribbean cruise; one reader described it as 'a delightful surprise hideaway.' This year's reader-favorite island destination has great diving, too, and some incredible beaches of its own—but a lot of visitors aren't just there for sun and sand. Instead, many travelers choose to spend their time exploring on foot and by boat to experience the area's incredible biodiversity. Keep reading for the full list. Galápagos Islands: Ecuador A seal asleep in a life raft on the Galapagos Islands. Sharyn Umaña-Angers/Travel + Leisure This year's reader-favorite destination takes the No. 1 spot for the 25th year in a row. The remote volcanic archipelago, consisting of more than a dozen major islands about 600 miles off the Pacific coast of Ecuador, is known for its richness of biodiversity, historical significance to science, and ecosystems found nowhere else on earth. 'These islands are a photographer's dream,' wrote one survey respondent; in addition to the unique landscapes, possible subjects include endemic Galápagos species like giant Tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies. As another reader described their visit, 'The nature is heaven-sent. Every day was an adventure, and I couldn't wait for the next.' The nature is heaven-sent. Every day was an adventure, and I couldn't wait for the next. — T+L Reader 1. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 91.23 2. Caye Caulker, Belize Reader Score: 85.32 3. Ambergris Caye, Belize WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 83.80 4. Isla Mujeres, Mexico Reader Score: 83.56 5. Roatán Island, HondurasReader Score: 81.08
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Travel + Leisure
08-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
Canada Has the Longest Coastline in the World—and These 3 Islands Were Just Named the Best in the Nation
Canada has the longest coastline in the world, and along its coastal regions lie more than 50,000 islands, with a few spectacular examples that stand out. In this year's World's Best Awards survey, T+L readers voted for their favorites for 2025, naming some of the country's largest islands into the top three—in the exact same order as last year. Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe—to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 180,000 T+L readers completed the 2025 survey. A total of more than 657,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.). Islands were specifically rated on the criteria below: Natural attractions/beaches Activities/sights Restaurants/food People/friendliness Value For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses. The Provincial Parliament Building of British Columbia in the harbor of Vancouver Island. Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure The islands on this year's list have made the top three nearly every year for the last decade. Once again, readers showed their love for Canada's Maritime Provinces, naming two winners on the east coast. Prince Edward Island (No. 3), Canada's smallest province, is a perennial favorite, known among travelers for its agritourism opportunities, outstanding restaurants, and delicious seafood. 'An amazing province to discover culinary culture and history,' wrote one T+L reader—who added that PEI also has 'amazing beaches and the friendliest, most welcoming people you will ever meet.' Just to the east is Cape Breton Island (No. 2), known for its rich Gaelic and Acadian culture, 'great hiking, and the most beautiful ocean views,' as one survey respondent put it. Readers also shouted out Cabot, the island's premier resort and a world-renowned golf destination. 'It's an absolute jewel,' wrote another respondent, who reminisced about the amazing views over the cliffs to the Gulf of St. Lawrence. T+L readers' favorite Canadian island for 2025, however, takes us across the country to the rugged edge of the Pacific. Vancouver Island People swimming on Vancouver Island. Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure Vancouver Island was 'an unexpected find,' wrote one T+L reader of this large island off of mainland British Columbia—they were so enamored, in fact, that they were already contemplating 'going back again and staying longer.' Just an easy ferry ride from the city of Vancouver, the island offers a diversity of settings for travelers, from the charming provincial capital, Victoria, to the wilds of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, and picturesque small towns like Tofino and Comox. 'Whale watching, green trees, gorgeous water,' another survey respondent remembered of a recent trip: 'So much beauty to see.' Whale watching, green trees, gorgeous water. So much beauty to see. — T+L Reader 1. Vancouver Island, British Columbia WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 89.31 2. Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 88.79 3. Prince Edward IslandReader Score: 83.40
Fox News
18-06-2025
- Fox News
SEAN DUFFY: Take a Great American Road Trip and rediscover our amazing country
"[W]e do not take a trip; a trip takes us." - Travels with Charley: In Search of America by John Steinbeck In 1960, American novelist John Steinbeck set out with his dog Charley in a camper on a journey to rediscover the heart of the nation. Though he had spent his career writing about our country, he understood that to truly know and love America, he needed to see America. "I had not heard the speech of America, smelled the grass and trees…seen its hills and water, its color and quality of light," he wrote at the time. Steinbeck and Charley traveled 10,000 miles across the United States, encountering farmers, drifters, Southern segregationists, and Northern suburbanites. He documented what he learned and saw in the famous book "Travels with Charley: In Search of America." His reflections — full of awe, sorrow, and empathy — become a portrait of our country and a call to see it firsthand. You'll never know America by listening to the nightly news or scrolling through TikTok or Instagram. Like Steinbeck before his journey, few of us have traced the spine of Route 66, watched the sun set behind the majestic Grand Canyon (one of the seven natural wonders of the world), stood beneath a 2,000-year-old, 300-foot-tall California redwood, or hiked the Smoky Mountains at dawn. As your secretary of transportation, I'm inviting you to rediscover America—not through a screen or a headline, but mile by mile, window down, heart open. In celebration of our nation's 250th anniversary, I am launching The Great American Road Trip—a yearlong invitation to travel, reflect, and reconnect with the people and places that define us. Transportation should be a pathway to opportunity, and road trips have always offered just that: freedom, flexibility, and a front-row seat to the American story. At the Department of Transportation, we're working to ensure that every American—no matter where they live or what they earn—can afford to get behind the wheel and explore this country on their own terms. Families are now better equipped to hit the road, thanks to lower gas prices, reduced inflation, and a renewed sense of American optimism under President Donald Trump's leadership. At the Department of Transportation, we're also eliminating burdensome regulations, such as Biden-era mileage standards, to make car ownership more affordable. No family should be priced out of owning a vehicle or exploring our beautiful country. I've taken road trips with my own family— cooler packed with snacks, long playlists, windows streaked with bug splatter, kids pointing out shapes in the clouds. Away from our routines, we reconnected and bonded—to each other, to the places we passed, and to the people we met. We learned things we hadn't expected, not just about the country, but about ourselves. Together with America250 and Brand USA, we've curated 250 destinations—some iconic, others unknown to most. We hope you'll stand in the dazzling lights of Times Square, but also take the turn that leads you to The Troll Hole Museum in Ohio, a crab meat and lobster stop in Maine, a castle hidden in the Michigan woods, and a lighthouse on a rocky New England coastline. We hope you'll visit Hemingway's home in Key West and find yourself deep inside Kentucky's Mammoth Cave. America's story lives in landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, South Dakota's Mount Rushmore and the Spanish missions of California, yes—but it also thrives in the family-owned roadside diners, the bait shop in northern Wisconsin, and the giant Paul Bunyan statue in Minnesota (a conversation starter with the kids about the tough lumberjacks who built America). We also celebrate the American-made vehicles that carry us—not just machines, but symbols of movement, freedom, and grit. President Trump's commitment to fair trade is revitalizing our auto industry, keeping factories open and producing bigger, better cars by hands that know the value of hard work and craftsmanship. In the years ahead, the world will turn its eyes to America, as we host the World Cup and the Olympics. As the spotlight turns to us, let's use this year leading up to our 250th anniversary as a nation to explore our homeland—to travel not as tourists, but as citizens eager to understand, to celebrate our freedom, and to rediscover this place we call home. As the song says, "from the mountains to the prairies, to the oceans, white with foam." This year, hit the road. Go far, go near, go somewhere you've never thought to go. And like Steinbeck, let the journey take you.
