It’s no secret that Canadians love to travel—especially when we feel welcome, understood, and even a little bit spoiled. Over the past year, I’ve noticed a definite shift: savvy Canadian travellers are bypassing the usual hot-spots and heading to destinations where they’re not just tolerated—they're celebrated.
As someone who spends most of the year bouncing between continents, co-hosting tourism expos, vetting destinations for media features, and leading small curated group trips, I’ve seen firsthand where the hospitality is genuine, the red carpet is real, and the perks are too good to ignore.
So, if you’re ready to plan your next adventure, here are a few destinations rolling out the red carpet—specifically for Canadians—in 2025.
Uganda: Africa’s best-kept secret—until now
I recently returned from Uganda, and it left a mark on my heart. While it’s often associated with gorilla trekking—and yes, that experience is unforgettable—Uganda is so much more than just chimps and gorillas. I visited Queen Elizabeth National Park and came face-to-face with lions lounging in fig trees, leopards just metres away, and entire herds of elephants with their babies in tow.
The landscapes were absolutely breathtaking: crater lakes, misty mountains, and rolling green savannahs. But what moved me the most was the warmth of the people. Children ran beside our trucks waving and calling out greetings, and there was this lovely sense of welcome wherever we went. I felt very safe—more so than in many more "developed" countries.
Why it works for Canadians: Uganda is affordable, uncrowded, and ideal for those who want a travel experience that’s meaningful, scenic, and culturally immersive. There’s now more access for mid-to-luxury travel, with beautiful lodges, well-trained guides, and curated experiences that go beyond wildlife—think boat safaris, village visits, and breathtaking sunsets on Lake Bunyonyi.
Tip: If you’re curious but hesitant about gorilla trekking, chimp tracking in Kibale is a bit easier and equally exciting. Plus, there are lodges where monkeys and baboons roam freely onto your balcony—no trekking required.
Portugal: A classic with modern allure
Portugal has long been a favourite for Canadians, and for good reason. It’s safe, sunny, easy to navigate, and offers tremendous value for money. But what’s exciting now is how much the experience has evolved. Boutique wine estates in the Douro, quiet villages in the Alentejo, and remote islands like Madeira and the Azores are offering a whole new side of Portugal—with far fewer tourists.
From curated cooking classes to wellness retreats and stylish rural stays, it’s ideal for those who want a little luxury without the fuss.
My Advice: Try pairing Lisbon with a stay in Porto, or skip the big cities and base yourself in a vineyard for a few days of slow travel. It’s all very doable by car—or train if you’d rather relax.
Albania: The Mediterranean’s best bargain
Albania is one of those places that makes you wonder why it’s not on everyone’s radar yet. The coastline rivals that of Greece or southern Italy, with crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and quiet beach towns that still feel authentic.
The food is fresh and Mediterranean-inspired, prices are refreshingly low, and English is spoken widely enough to make it easy for first-time visitors.
Canadian angle: No visa needed, and flights into nearby Corfu or Tirana are becoming more accessible. It’s ideal for those who want a European feel without European pricing.
Tip: Rent a car and drive the coastal route from Saranda to Vlora—you’ll be stopping every 10 minutes to take a photo.
Rwanda: Luxury with a conscience
Rwanda has undergone one of the most remarkable transformations in modern travel. It’s clean (plastic bags are banned), organized, and deeply proud of its heritage and conservation efforts. It’s a destination for travellers who want luxury with purpose.
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is the highlight, of course—but there’s so much more: tea plantation tours, elegant lodges, and Akagera National Park where you can enjoy Big Five game drives with no crowds.
Note from the road: I’ve never felt more cared for or more inspired than I did when speaking with Rwandans about their commitment to rebuilding, preserving, and welcoming visitors. Their hospitality is next-level.
Georgia (yes, the country): A wine-fuelled hidden gem
Georgia is one of those countries where every meal feels like a celebration and every local treats you like family. Its capital, Tbilisi, is a gorgeous jumble of cobbled streets, sulphur baths, and buzzing wine bars. The surrounding countryside is even more special—with ancient monasteries, vineyards that predate the Romans, and mountain villages that feel like something out of a storybook.
Canadian travellers: There’s no visa required, and while it might look far on a map, it’s surprisingly easy to reach via Istanbul or Warsaw.
Tip: Go now. Georgia’s about to hit the mainstream, and you’ll want to say you experienced it before it did.
Final thoughts
If you’re a Canadian looking to travel smarter in 2025, these destinations are not only stunning—they're rolling out the welcome mat in a big way. You don’t need to follow the crowds to find magic. Sometimes, the most rewarding travel experiences are the ones where you feel truly seen and appreciated as a visitor.
Curious about any of these places?
Message me or follow along on Instagram @lorrainesimpsontravels—I'll be sharing behind-the-scenes clips, personal stories, and insider tips from the road. You may even get a sneak peek into one of my small-group curated trips.
Because in 2025, it’s not just about going somewhere. It’s about going somewhere that welcomes you.
Don't forget if you are looking to travel I still own a TICO registered travel agency in Ontario and will be happy to help. Always the best way to reach me is by email as I mostly work remote and I can either set up a time to meet you or suggest a perfect local agent to help you.
Email me at [email protected]
Email my Ontario Based Agents Michelle Lucy or Lauren Preston
Check some travel info at www.conciergetravelgroup.ca
Or just check out some stories and videos at lorrainesimpson.com
