While bucket list holidays are usually once-in-a-lifetime experiences, some countries leave a lasting impression and have travellers desperate to come back.
New research has found that a small country has beaten popular holiday spots as the place holidaymakers would most like to return to.
Costa Rica in Central America has topped the list with the most mentions online, according to analysis by SCS Chauffeurs.
It looked at 8,000 online travel discussions to find where tourists can't stop thinking about in 2025, as three-quarters of Britons said they've returned to a country more than once.
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Costa Rica is known for its exceptional natural beauty | GETTY The countries travellers most want to return to
- Costa Rica (895)
- Italy (859)
- Japan (858)
- United Kingdom (670)
- Portugal (604)
- UAE (210)
- India (150)
- New Zealand (125)
- Ireland (112)
- Iceland (106)
Costa Rica outshone holiday hotspots like Italy and Japan, highlighting changing habits in where holidaymakers would most like to return to. Long-haul destinations are becoming as popular as European classics.
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Its popularity comes from Costa Rica's focus on sustainable tourism, as well as its idyllic beaches and unspoilt natural beauty. The UK also made the list, showing its appeal with a global audience.
Britons looking to take advantage of the UK's beauty can consider a budget-friendly staycation spot with "world-class scenery".
Commercial director at SCS Chauffeurs, Hadleigh Diamond, said: “As chauffeurs, we hear the travel highlights fresh from the runway. Passengers often tell us which destinations they’re already planning to revisit before they’ve even unpacked their bags.
"Costa Rica’s rise above Italy and Japan reflects how travellers are chasing authenticity, sustainability and unique memories.
Italy came second on the list, with many holidaymakers keen to return
| GETTY"Whether it’s a family returning from Faro or a couple flying back into Manchester Airport after a second trip to Tokyo, our chauffeurs see first-hand how repeat journeys shape travel behaviour.
"For travellers, the holiday starts the moment they step into the car - not just when the plane takes off.”
Britons hoping to tick off a bucket list holiday in the coming weeks can take advantage of last-minute holiday deals going to tropical hotspots and historical cities. Jet off to Bali, New York, Athens and more, with packages from £125 per person.
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