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Lesson Plan: Exploring National Geographic’s Best of the World 2025

Ann S. Michaelsen
Photograph by David Doubilet | Papuan fishermen in Raja Ampat, Indonesia

Photograph by David Doubilet | Papuan fishermen in Raja Ampat, Indonesia

Objective:
Students will work in pairs to analyze National Geographic’s 25 Best Places to Travel in 2025 and collaboratively select a destination based on specific criteria.

Duration:
90 minutes

Materials:

Lesson Outline

Introduction

  1. Begin with an overview of National Geographic’s Best of the World 2025 list.
    • Explain its significance in shaping global travel trends.
    • Highlight how destinations reflect diverse cultural, natural, and sustainable travel priorities.
  2. Pose a question to spark interest:
    • “What would make a destination ideal for you, and why?”
    • Briefly discuss how personal values shape travel decisions.

Activity 1: Destination Exploration

  1. Divide the class into pairs and assign each pair 2–3 destinations from the list.
  2. Pairs research their assigned destinations using digital devices or printed resources.
    • Focus on unique features such as cultural highlights, natural attractions, or sustainability efforts.
  3. Each pair prepares a brief presentation (e.g., 2–3 key points) about their assigned destinations.
  4. Once prepared, pairs present their findings to the class.
    • Encourage students to ask follow-up questions to clarify or learn more.

Activity 2: Developing Selection Criteria

  1. Guide the class in brainstorming and refining a list of criteria for choosing the ideal travel destination.
    • Examples include:
      • Cultural experiences
      • Natural wonders
      • Adventure opportunities
      • Unique cuisine
      • Historical significance
      • Sustainability initiatives
  2. Students document their chosen criteria on worksheets for use in the next activity.

Activity 3: Destination Selection

  1. Pairs review all 25 destinations, considering the presentations and their established criteria.
  2. They select their top destination and one runner-up based on their analysis.
  3. Each pair writes a brief justification for their choices, citing specific features and criteria.

Activity 4: Presentation and Discussion

  1. Pairs share their chosen destination, runner-up, and justification with the class.
  2. Facilitate a class discussion:
    • How do priorities (e.g., adventure, culture, sustainability) differ between groups?
    • Are there any unexpected overlaps or conflicts in destination choices?

Conclusion and Reflection

  1. Summarize the diversity of the destinations and experiences shared.
  2. Reflect on the role of personal interests and values in shaping travel decisions.
  3. Open a discussion on the broader implications of tourism:
    • What are the potential benefits and challenges for local communities and ecosystems?

Homework Assignment

Pairs create a detailed 5-day itinerary for their chosen destination, including:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Additional Links for Resources:

To enhance your lesson and provide students with more information about their chosen destinations, consider using these resources:

  1. World Atlas: A comprehensive resource for various types of maps and geographical information.
  2. RareMaps.com: A collection of antique maps with historical context that can provide insights into past perceptions of geography.
  3. U.S. Geological Survey (USGS): Offers free geographical tools, including interactive maps and training videos.

Additional Resources

To support homework and deepen exploration, students may refer to:

 

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