Where to Go in 2025

Paros, Greece

If you haven’t already started planning your 2025 travel yet, let this week’s post be your inspiration.

While many of the world’s most popular destinations are still expected to be very popular next year (Italy, France, Japan…), there are some up and coming destinations that are starting to draw crowds, particularly from the US. We’ve picked a few favorites from around the world to get you dreaming…

Palau

Palau is known for its diverse coral reefs and abundant marine life. It’s also a place dedicated to conservation, requiring visitors to sign a pledge that they will "tread lightly, act kindly, and explore mindfully” during their time here. Palau is made up of 340 islands and spans 500 miles east of the Philippines. . It's a world-class diving paradise set among the Rock Island landscape of 445  limestone islands rising above the ocean. One of the most unique experiences you can have in Palau is swimming in Jellyfish Lake where you can swim among harmless jellyfish. One of the more unique ways to experience Palau is to travel on the Four Seasons Explorer, a small ship that sails around the islands with daily embarkations and disembarkations - explore the underwater world, learn about the local culture, or choose to stay on the ship and enjoy the luxurious amenities. 

Franschhoek, South Africa

If you’re a wine lover traveling to South Africa, visiting Franschhoek is a must. This is part of the Cape Winelands region outside Cape Town and is ideal for a few nights stay during your time in South Africa or as an add-on to your safari trip. Aside from the 50 plus wineries, there has been an emergence of excellent farm-to-table restaurants and beautiful boutique lodging like La Cotte Farm where my clients will be staying next August. 

Paros, Greece

Paros has been a trending destination for a few years now and is only going to keep getting more popular. When I was there in 2023, I learned about the future international airport plans which will make the island more accessible. It’s an idyllic island alternative to Mykonos or as a replacement for the very busy Santorini. Whether it’s your first trip to Greece or your fourth, Paros is worth spending a few nights whether you just want to relax, take in the charms of its port city, Naoussa, or explore the more adventurous side of the island by hiking or windsurfing. Opt to stay close to town at Cosme or choose a quieter stay at the luxe Parilio. 

Dominica

This is NOT the Dominican Republic, but it is an island in the Caribbean. Dominica has been slowly gaining in popularity as the island becomes more accessible to American travelers. There are now direct flights from Miami via American Airlines and I wouldn’t be surprised if more direct flights on other carriers start becoming available. There are fewer resorts here than the more popular Caribbean islands making it ideal for a more intimate getaway (think honeymoons or anniversaries) or can be great for a solo escape. Dominica is known as the Nature Island because it is home to hot springs, rainforests, waterfalls, beaches, hiking trails, canyoning, abundant wildlife, and more. It’s another perfect place for divers and snorkelers, as well as those looking for something to do other than sitting at a beach. For the ultimate luxury, stay at Secret Bay in one of their one or two bedroom villas. 

Norway

Scandinavia has been a trending spot for awhile, but it’s mostly Norway that is generating interest. This is another destination that offers a mix of experiences and locales, making it appealing to many kinds of travelers. Start or end your trip to Norway in Oslo, a major cultural hub in the region, before chasing the Northern Lights in fall and winter or sailing through the fjords in summer. The long days in Summer mean you’ll have plenty of time to do all of the outdoor activities you are interested in before it gets dark! And as climate change makes parts of Central and Southern Europe much hotter in the summer, Norway becomes an attractive destination for milder weather. 

Which of the destinations is most interesting to you? Or what’s at the top of your list for next year? Let us know and we would love to help you plan the trip of your dreams.