5 must-visit destinations for 2025

25 November 2024

With a new year edging ever closer, there’s no better time to start thinking ahead to where your future getaways will take you. Picture this: a year filled with exploration, discovery, and unforgettable experiences, whether you're a seasoned traveller searching for the next big thing or someone looking to take that first step into the world of adventure. Join us as we delve into our top must-visit destinations for 2025 – wish lists at the ready…

Kii Peninsula, Japan

The well-known hotspots of Japan such as Tokyo and Kyoto will always feature highly on any travel-lover’s hit list, but it’s the country’s spiritual heart that has caught our attention thanks to its lush forests, ancient temples, and serene coastal views. The Kii Peninsula is a place where tradition meets tranquillity, offering visitors a chance to walk ancient pilgrimage routes and soak in natural hot springs. Found in a quiet corner of Japan’s Honshu Island, its prefectures (Mie, Nara, and Wakayama) provide some of the most stunning scenery that can be explored at a leisurely pace.

We recommend: Discover the historic Kumano Kodo trails, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which spans a whopping 190 miles, and experience the spiritual allure of Japan's sacred mountains, hidden waterfalls, and grand shrines.

Trysil, Norway

If you’re looking for a winter wonderland that looks like something out of a storybook, look no further. Trysil is Norway's largest ski destination and is perfect for adventure seekers craving snowy slopes and cosy cabins. Offering 69 slopes for all ages and abilities, the incredible snow conditions here mean it’s a great choice for those looking to ski in peace thanks to the relatively uncrowded pistes and long ski season. Close to the Swedish border and only a few hours from Oslo, it’s easy to get to yet feels like another world entirely.

We recommend: Beyond skiing, enjoy snowshoeing through the pristine forests or relax under the Northern Lights at a traditional Norwegian sauna. In the evening, Trysil has some amazing apres-ski options, from pubs to live music events.

Uganda, East Africa

With its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife, Uganda is an under-appreciated destination for nature lovers, but 2025 looks set to be the year that traditional safari travellers start to take note. Home to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Uganda is best known for gorilla trekking, as the wilderness here is home to half the world’s mountain gorilla population, so it promises an unforgettable encounter with nature whenever you choose to visit. There are also savannahs and wetlands to explore if you want to venture further.

We recommend: As well as securing a spot on a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking expedition in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, make sure you allocate time to explore the vibrant ecosystems of Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Wyoming, USA

It’s never been cooler to be a cowboy, from the resurgence of country music outside the US to the popularity of the TV show Yellowstone, make 2025 the year you live the rancher fantasy out in the wilds of the West. From the majestic Grand Tetons to the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone, Wyoming is a playground for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers. Get ready to eat your meals around a campfire, sleep under the stars, and find the perfect pair of cowboy boots that are both comfortable enough to ride a horse in and run rings around the locals while line dancing.

We recommend: Make the journey to Yellowstone National Park to witness the eruption of Old Faithful and hike through the stunning mountain trails of Grand Teton National Park that lead to epic gorges and jaw-dropping alpine lakes.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

This bustling city has long been a popular destination for adventurous travellers and is a hub of culture, history, and culinary delight. Next year, the country celebrates 50 years of national reunification, so it’s the perfect time to explore its beautifully chaotic streets. Expect plenty of events, exhibitions, and celebrations commemorating this wonderful milestone throughout the year, and don’t miss out on the city’s impressive shopping, second only to the delicious food that visitors rave about long after they return home.

We recommend: Savour the flavours of Vietnam with a street food tour, either on foot or the back of a bike, and sample traditional favourites and speciality dishes such as phở, bún chả, and bánh xèo.

To book your getaway to any of these destinations in 2025, contact your Travel Counsellor today.

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