Bhutan: The Pursuit of Happiness
Bhutan has always been a destination shrouded in mystery, famous for its policy of valuing Gross National Happiness over economic gain. In 2025, the Bhutanese government is seriously weighing new restrictions on tourism, with discussions swirling about an outright closure to outsiders. Reports from Bhutanese authorities highlight that the fragile natural environment is suffering from increased visitor numbers. Local communities have voiced concerns about cultural erosion and environmental damage, prompting lawmakers to rethink their approach. The country already charges tourists a daily sustainable development fee, but recent government proposals suggest that even this measure might not be enough. Some political figures argue that closing the borders, at least temporarily, might be the only way to preserve what makes Bhutan unique. As officials review the impact of tourism on their society and environment, travelers may soon find Bhutan off-limits. The final decision is expected later this year, but the mood among leaders is clear: Bhutan’s happiness may depend on solitude.
North Korea: The Unpredictable Landscape
North Korea has always been an enigma for travelers, with state-controlled itineraries and supervised group tours. In 2025, the regime is reportedly ramping up its restrictions even further, with leaked government statements warning of a possible full closure to foreign visitors. Recent diplomatic tensions and security incidents have made Pyongyang increasingly suspicious of outsiders. Several embassies have reported stricter visa procedures and fewer approved tourist groups. In major cities, tourist areas are being cordoned off, and local guides are receiving new instructions on limiting foreign contact. Safety concerns, including the risk of arrest or detention, are contributing to a steep drop in visitor numbers, according to international agencies. North Korean leadership fears outside influence could destabilize their tightly controlled society, so total closure seems more likely than ever. As of this spring, several travel companies have already suspended their North Korean tours.
Venezuela: A Nation in Crisis
Venezuela’s once-beautiful destinations have become nearly inaccessible due to ongoing turmoil. In 2025, the country’s economic collapse has reached new lows, with hyperinflation and shortages of food and medicine making daily life a struggle. Crime rates have soared, and muggings, kidnappings, and robberies are regular reports from both locals and rare tourists. The government has issued official statements cautioning against international travel to Venezuela for safety reasons. Infrastructure, from hotels to airports, is falling apart, and several tourist attractions have shuttered as a result. Foreign ministries in several countries have upgraded their travel warnings to the highest levels, urging citizens to avoid all travel. Tour operators say bookings have plummeted, and many insurance providers won’t cover trips to Venezuela at all. With the situation worsening, it’s possible that the government could soon close the country to all non-essential visitors.
Afghanistan: Ongoing Instability
Afghanistan remains one of the world’s most dangerous places for travelers, with instability showing no signs of abating in 2025. The Taliban’s grip on the country has led to a new wave of violence, kidnappings, and bombings. International organizations have pulled out their personnel, and foreign embassies are operating with skeleton staff, if at all. Historic sites that once drew adventurous tourists are now abandoned, with many damaged by fighting. The country’s infrastructure continues to deteriorate, making basic travel difficult and dangerous. Multiple governments, including the United States and the United Kingdom, have strong advisories against any travel to Afghanistan. The Taliban leadership has signaled that tourism is not a priority, and may soon ban it altogether as security worsens. Access for tourists is likely to become impossible in the near future.
Syria: A War-Torn Landscape
Syria’s civil war has left the nation in ruins, and in 2025, the scars are still fresh and deep. While a few areas are under reconstruction, most regions remain unsafe due to sporadic violence and the presence of unexploded ordnance. The government has cordoned off entire provinces, making independent travel nearly impossible. UNESCO-listed sites, once bustling with visitors, are now either destroyed or inaccessible due to military activity. Humanitarian organizations warn of ongoing displacement and a lack of basic services like water and electricity in many towns. Foreign ministries worldwide continue to issue strict travel bans for Syria. The few travelers attempting entry face significant bureaucratic hurdles and potential danger. The possibility of the government imposing a complete ban on tourism is being discussed, as security and reconstruction remain top priorities.
Myanmar: Political Turmoil
Myanmar’s once-booming tourism industry has been shattered by political unrest and violence since the military coup in 2021. In 2025, protests and armed clashes between the military and resistance groups are a daily reality in many cities and rural areas. The government has closed off entire regions, and checkpoints make travel unpredictable and risky. International flights in and out of the country have been reduced, and many countries have closed their embassies or reduced their staff. Reports from human rights organizations highlight widespread arrests, which have included foreign nationals. The tourism ministry has suspended new visa issuances in several cases, and most tour operators have cancelled trips indefinitely. With the situation so volatile, Myanmar could soon become completely inaccessible to tourists. This uncertainty is expected to continue for the foreseeable future.
Russia: Strained International Relations
Russia’s international profile has shifted dramatically in recent years due to its ongoing conflict with Ukraine and escalating geopolitical tensions. In 2025, the Russian government is considering new restrictions on tourism, particularly for visitors from Western countries. Economic sanctions and diplomatic rifts have already made it much harder to obtain visas or book flights. Some popular regions, especially near military installations or border zones, are now off-limits to foreigners. The government has openly discussed the possibility of closing certain cities and regions to international tourists for security reasons. Western travel advisories warn of unpredictable detentions and increased surveillance. Major travel agencies have reported a sharp decrease in interest and bookings. With tensions still high, some experts believe that a more comprehensive closure to tourism could be imminent.
Iran: A Complex Landscape
Iran has long been a magnet for adventurous travelers seeking ancient culture and breathtaking landscapes, but the outlook for tourism in 2025 is grim. Political tensions between Iran and the West have deepened, leading to tougher visa requirements and frequent cancellations of international flights. The Iranian government has hinted at imposing new regulations that could further limit access for foreign visitors. Economic hardships have impacted infrastructure, with many hotels, museums, and historic sites cutting hours or closing altogether. Reports of arbitrary detentions of tourists and increased surveillance are on the rise. Travel advisories from major countries now list Iran as a high-risk destination. The number of international visitors has dropped sharply since last year. With the situation becoming more unpredictable, Iran may soon close its doors to all but essential travelers.
Cuba: Changing Regulations
Cuba’s distinctive charm has drawn millions, but 2025 finds the country on the brink of dramatic policy changes. The Cuban government, struggling with economic woes and shifting political alliances, is reviewing its approach to foreign tourism. New U.S. travel restrictions have cut off a significant source of visitors, causing ripple effects throughout the island’s hotels and resorts. Locals report that some popular tourist sites are operating on reduced hours or have closed entirely due to staffing and maintenance issues. The government has floated proposals to limit or even temporarily suspend tourism in certain regions to focus on domestic needs. Tour operators have noticed a noticeable drop in bookings as travelers face more hurdles. Cuba’s unique economy, heavily reliant on tourism, makes this a risky move, but officials argue it’s necessary for national stability. As policies evolve, the window for tourists to visit Cuba may soon be closing.
Libya: A Nation in Transition
Libya’s breathtaking Mediterranean coastline and ancient ruins are largely inaccessible in 2025 due to lingering violence and political chaos. Sporadic fighting between rival factions continues to disrupt everyday life, and government control is fragmented. International organizations have classified Libya as a high-risk country, and almost all Western governments advise against travel there. Many of the country’s most famous archaeological sites have been damaged or are surrounded by conflict zones. Hotels and tour operators have closed or left the country, and the few that remain operate under constant threat. The Libyan government, overwhelmed by security concerns, has made it nearly impossible to get a tourist visa. There is growing speculation among diplomats that Libya could formally ban all tourism until stability is restored. The uncertainty has made the country’s future as a travel destination highly doubtful.