#USA #San Francisco #Matador Network #Travel Awards #Destinations

Celebrating The 2025 Matador Network Travel Awards

The Matador Network, a leading authority in travel media, has revealed the winners of the 2025 Matador Network Travel Awards. This year’s awards featured an extensive selection of twelve amazing destinations, recognized for their unique offerings, sustainability, and appeal to diverse travelers. The results reflect the expertise of Matador's global travel specialists as well as the preferences of its enthusiastic readership.

Among the standout winners, Estonia garnered the title of Next Big Destination, marking its rise in popularity due to enhanced flight connections and advancements in sustainable tourism practices. This Baltic gem, particularly the vibrant city of Tartu, which has been designated as the European Capital of Culture for 2024, offers an inviting blend of culture and nature, making it an essential stop for future travelers.

In the Adventure category, Oaxaca in Mexico claims the award with its rich offerings that range from exhilarating mountain biking in the Sierra Norte to the exciting waves perfect for surfing along its coast. As a travel hub for adventure seekers, Oaxaca showcases the dynamic blend of thrill and culture that defines the modern traveler’s experience.

Madeira, Portugal has been awarded the Best Sustainable Destination for its commitment to environmental awareness and preservation. This stunning archipelago is setting an example of how contemporary tourism can thrive without compromising ecological integrity. With its breathtaking landscapes and pristine nature, it's a must-visit for eco-conscious travelers.

The title of Best Wellness Destination goes to Türkiye, where wellness is ingrained in its culture. From traditional hammam rituals to thermal baths that dot the landscape, the Turkish experience is all about rejuvenation. Visitors can engage in slow mornings filled with local delicacies, creating a nurturing environment for both body and mind.

In an exciting addition, the Best Wildlife Destination award was introduced this year. The inaugural winner is Baja California, a diverse region where desert landscapes meet two distinct oceans. This area is renowned for its vast wildlife and is a haven for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural world.

The Best Airline award went to Qatar Airways, recognized for its stellar service, connectivity, and commitment to a premium travel experience. Readers of Matador Network selected Emirates as their choice, reflecting a shared sentiment about quality and comfort in air travel.

The Readers' Choice categories also provided highlights, with Albania emerging as the next big destination due to its remarkable landscapes that blend breathtaking coastal beauty with rugged mountains. It offers visitors a taste of the wild at an affordable price, as it slowly becomes a favorite with adventurous travelers.

Patagonia, Argentina, was crowned the best choice for adventure, where trekking, ice hiking, and whale watching are just the beginning of an unforgettable experience. Meanwhile, Costa Rica retained the title of Best Sustainable Destination, praised for its ongoing initiatives in conservation and eco-tourism.

Rotorua, New Zealand, with its famous geothermal activity including geysers and hot springs, was recognized for its wellness offerings. Moreover, proximity to wildlife is exemplified in Nairobi National Park, which brings high-energy adventures just minutes from the urban skyline.

Matador Network's CEO, Ross Borden, noted the importance of award-winning destinations in expanding travelers' horizons. He emphasized that rewarding experiences await every traveler, regardless of whether they are seasoned wanderers or newbies planning a single trip.

Nickolaus Hines, the editorial content director, added, “In a world overflowing with choices, it’s crucial to find destinations that promise amazing experiences year after year. Our list serves as a reliable guide to help travelers navigate the ocean of options.”

As we head into 2026, these award-winning destinations serve as an exciting inspiration for travelers yearning for new experiences. The Matador Network encourages everyone to seize the opportunity offered by these coveted locales and airlines that continually demonstrate excellence in the travel industry.

For more information, visit Matador Network's official website.