
The start of a new year brings about lots of planning and wishes – and travel is something that gets many excited. The world is full of mesmerising places to discover, so letting 2025 be the year to tick some off your bucket list sounds like a great occasion.
Whether you’re on the lookout for new destination ideas or want to consider some more with the ones you already have in mind, this list will tickle the pleasure of every adrenaline junkie, history buff or foodie. Get ready for some serious inspiration and remember to start whatever journey you launch on with peace of mind.
REYKJAVIK, ICELAND
This destination combines its small-town charm with wild landscapes made to awe. What’s great about Reykjavik is its direct ticket to anything Iceland has to offer; an ideal destination for nature lovers.
Discover the beauty of Hallgrímskirkja Church, wander the streets boasting colourful houses and street art, venture beyond the city to discover the lava caves of Raufarhólshellir or even get a wet suit ready to snorkel between tectonic plates.
Head there in winter to amaze at the dancing Northern Lights, an epic show of how exceptional nature can be. If you’re there in summer, the Midnight Sun is fascinating in itself as Iceland experiences 21 hours of daylight. Don’t forget to take a reusable water bottle with you, as Iceland boasts some of the purest water in the world.

MARRAKECH, MOROCCO
Not too far from Malta, you’ll find a gem right at the top of the African continent. As you wander through the medina and admire the line of shops selling handwoven rugs and distinct spice, Marrakech’s energy is truly contagious.
Venture beyond the bustling market to relax in Majorelle Garden; once owned by Yves Saint Laurent himself. Make your evening magical by visiting Jemaa el-Fnaa square that offers explorers entertaining live performances and exotic street food – check out the snail soup.
One way to get on the locals’ good side is to pack your knowledge on some French and Arabic phrases – they appreciate the effort and might end up helping you further.

PETRA, JORDAN
Known as The Rose City, due to the colour of the sandstone from which it is carved, Petra allows you to immerse yourself in the past.
Make your way through the narrow Siq that takes you directly to Petra’s breathtaking Treasury, carved into its rose-coloured rock. After exploring the main attractions, head to the Monastery through a hike to admire stunning views. The Royal Tombs are less explored by foreigners, so head there for a quieter historical experience.
Want to experience the magic of Petra further? Be one of the attendees of the Petra by Night show, where you’ll see this historic city illuminated by thousands of candles – a sure promise to add a touch of surrealism to your journey of discovery.
Don’t forget Petra lies in the desert, so pack loads of water and sunscreen to ensure your journey is pleasurable.

HOI AN, VIETNAM
Want to feel like you’re taking a step back in time? Hoi An is an exceptional destination as it mixes old traditions with modern creativity. The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, promises wander with its lantern-lit streets and boat rides that take you along the Thu Bon Rover.
A visit to Tra Que Village will give you insight about how locals utilise organic farming to grow their produce. If you are a fashion lover, you cannot miss visiting one of the town’s tailors to have some custom clothes made… sometimes in less than 24 hours at fraction of the price of stores in renowned shopping districts.
Your experience can be enhanced by planning your trip around the Full Moon Lantern Festival, a traditional celebration that takes place on the 14th day of every lunar month.

TULUM, MEXICO
Tulum marries history with epic views, as its turquoise waters meet ancient ruins. This beach paradise allows visitors to explore Mayan ruins perched on its cliffs overseeing the Caribbean Sea.
Malta might have its fair share of beaches to refresh, but Tulum has got the most amazing underground cave systems called cenotes, created naturally as limestone bedrock collapses to expose a sinkhole. Dos Ojos is one location you should take a look at.
If you like venturing away from touristic hotspots, discover Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO site that offers visitors yoga classes amidst diverse wildlife.
You cannot go to Mexico without indulging in some authentic tacos! The best are found in the local taquerias.

DUBROVNIK, CROATIA
Set your own adventures away from the mainstream capital cities… Croatia is still mostly undiscovered.
Dubrovnik has got to be one your list, with its walled Old Town exuding historic and charm. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you’ll get déjà vu of King’s Landing scenes for sure. The city’s walls offer inspiring views of the Adriatic Sea.
Elevate your experience to a cable car ride to Mount Srð and let your amazement reach its pinnacle at the panoramic views. Move away from touristic locations with a quick trip to Sveti Jakov, a hidden beach for a tranquil escape.
Dubrovnik is quickly becoming popular, so don’t wait too long to explore it. When you’re there, set your alarms early to avoid cruise ship visitors.

QUEENSTOWN, NEW ZEALAND
Why not venture to downunder for 2025? Queenstown in New Zealand has the most impressive backdrop of the Southern Alps and it is surely a destination for the biggest of adventurers.
This destination will test your courage to the limits, with options to bungee jump off the Kawarau Bridge, take a flight over Milford Sound or even zipline through the native forests there. Tame down the adrenaline and let your tastebuds sizzle with a wine tasting session at Gibbston Valley.
Pick March to May for your visit, which is New Zealand’s autumn to see the landscape coloured with vibrant fall scenery.

NAXOS, GREECE
Swap Santorini and Mykonos for a quieter Greek destination. Explore authentic Aegean scenery when exploring ruins and temples dedicated to the Greek god, Apollo. Head over to Agios Prokopios – a golden beach that will mesmerise your eyes with its beauty.
You cannot visit a Greek island without tickling your taste buds with fresh seafood found in the local family-run tavernas. If you’re in the mood to do something different, hike to Tragea Valley to discover its lush mountain villages full of charm.
Don’t head there without securing a rental car, which will allow you to explore as much as possible of this island.

2025 promises to be an incredible year with so many fascinating destinations to explore. Every avid traveller needs one thing before they set off, and that’s an annual travel insurance that saves you money but ensures all your adventures are covered – including last-minute cancellation, medical emergencies or last luggage.