2025 Travel Wishlist

As I look to next year, both for personal travels and where I’m recommending clients, it seems like we’re all seeking travel experiences that are authentic, sustainable, and away from the crowds. While so many hotspots stay hot for a reason, I’m particularly excited about off the beaten path destinations that are lower density and offer a richness of experiences across nature, food and wine, culture and history. Each has something incredibly special to offer, and many have unique experiences that are new and noteworthy for 2025.

Egypt

2025 marks an exciting year with the grand opening of the world's largest archaeological museum - the Grand Egyptian Museum. With new visitor management systems in place and favorable exchange rates, it's the perfect time to explore ancient wonders with fewer crowds. Combine luxury Nile cruises on intimate dahabiyas, desert retreats, cultural experiences and seaside escapes on the Red Sea for the ultimate Egyptian experience.

Northern Lights in Finland and Iceland

Arctic Treehouse Hotel in Finnish Lapland

2025 coincides with the solar maximum, promising exceptional Northern Lights viewing opportunities. Stay in glass-roofed igloos in Finnish Lapland or exclusive geothermal spas in Iceland while witnessing nature's most spectacular light show. Both destinations are elevating their luxury offerings with world-class design hotels and farm-to-table Nordic cuisine.

Aeolian Islands

This volcanic archipelago off Sicily's northern coast is elevating its luxury offerings in 2025 with new sustainable transportation options making island-hopping more eco-friendly. Indulge in private yacht charters, explore boutique wineries, and unwind in thermal mud baths while enjoying these UNESCO-protected islands' commitment to preserving their natural heritage. The islands of Lipari, Vulcano, Salina, Stromboli, Filicudi, Alicudi and Panarea, are lowkey where it’s best to either rent a house or stay in a quaint and charming boutique hotel.

Belize

2025 is the perfect time to discover Belize's dual personalities. Start in Ambergris Caye, where new luxury beachfront properties are redefining Caribbean sophistication, then venture inland to the jungle for intimate eco-lodge experiences. With enhanced airlift and new sustainable luxury properties opening throughout the year, you can easily combine world-class snorkeling at the barrier reef with ancient Mayan ruins and pristine rainforest adventures.

Slovenia

Nova Gorica takes center stage as 2025's European Capital of Culture, sharing the spotlight with neighboring Gorizia, Italy. Beyond the year-long cultural festivities, explore the emerging Brda wine country and Vipava valley, where Michelin-starred restaurants and forest hideaways await. It's Slovenia's moment to shine as Europe's next great food and wine destination.

Albania and Montenegro

These Balkan gems are unveiling several high-end eco-resorts along the Adriatic coast in 2025. Still relatively undiscovered, they offer incredible value with their pristine coastlines, historic towns, and stunning mountain landscapes. Montenegro particularly appeals to nature enthusiasts and beach lovers seeking Mediterranean luxury without the crowds.

Zambia

Celebrating 60 years of independence in 2025, Zambia offers an authentic African safari experience with special cultural festivities planned throughout the year. Experience intimate lodges, water-based safaris, and Victoria Falls in relative seclusion - perfect for those seeking Africa's raw beauty without the typical safari crowds.

Basque Country

Straddling northern Spain and southwestern France, the Basque Country is emerging as a luxury destination with new high-end hotels and a strong commitment to sustainable tourism. From San Sebastian's Michelin-starred restaurants to Bordeaux's renowned vineyards and a new hotel scene in coastal Biarritz, it's a food lover's paradise with the added charm of picturesque coastal towns and rolling hillsides.

Rajasthan

2025 sees the completion of several palace and fort restoration projects in Jaipur and Udaipur. Experience regal luxury through private tours of royal residences, exclusive boat rides in the City of Lakes, shopping for treasures around the Pink City, and stays in opulent palace hotels. The timing is perfect to witness these historic gems restored to their former glory.

Sri Lanka

Emerging as a leader in sustainable luxury, Sri Lanka is perfecting the balance of ancient culture and eco-friendly resorts. From private safaris in Yala National Park, to exploring the Cultural Triangle, exclusive tea plantation experiences, and stunning oceanfront resorts, it offers an intimate look at both wildlife and culture. Combine with the Maldives for the ultimate 2025 honeymoon.

Peru

Beyond Machu Picchu, Peru's luxury travel scene is evolving beautifully for 2025. Experience the culinary revolution in Lima, explore the Peruvian Amazon via a luxury cruise, or take the Belmond Andean Explorer train through the Sacred Valley. New properties are elevating the hospitality scene while providing access to lesser-known indigenous areas and hiking trails.

Mani Peninsula, Greece

The rugged Mani Peninsula offers authentic Greek life away from crowded islands, with its distinctive stone tower houses, pristine beaches, and exceptional farm-to-table cuisine. It's Greece at its most raw and genuine.