Sure, Christmas is coming and all that, but the end of the year also means you can start planning – or dreaming – of your 2025 travel plans.
Maybe you have a wish list, or just want to explore a few destinations as an armchair traveller. Well, we’ve got you covered, from old favourites to emerging must-do locations, both here and overseas.
Japan
If this country has been on your wish list, now is the time to start checking out deals. As the last country to open its doors after COVID, the tourism industry is still trying to lure travellers back to this enchanting country.
Every single person I know who has travelled to Japan can’t wait to go back. One couple wanted to buy a flat there. Sanity prevailed and they are just planning the snow season, but it’s that sort of place.
Japan is clean, the train system means it’s easy to get around, food is cheap and our dollar does well. Sure, you can enjoy the tourist favourites such as Tokyo and Kyoto, but with a little bit of research and planning you can be off the beaten track quite easily for the real experience.
Lonely Planet named Osaka as one of its ‘must-do’ destinations for 2025
Siem Reap, Cambodia
If online searches count for anything, Cambodia is top of everyone’s list next year.
According to Skyscanner, the city Siem Reap, Cambodia has seen an increase in online inquiries of an eye-watering 529 per cent.
The main appeal its proximity to the majestic ruins of Angkor Wat. Located on a site measuring 162.6 hectares, it’s still considered the largest religious construction in the world, centuries after it was built.
However, Seim Reap has a lot to offer apart from the awe-inspiring temples. There are markets, the gaudy and giddy nightlife on Pub Street, a glorious day trip to the charming Phnom Kulen National Park including the spectacular waterfalls, or a calming spa day with a traditional Khmer massage.
Despite its tragic history, Cambodia’s resilience and cultural wealth make it an intriguing place to explore in 2025.
Thailand
It’s a rare Australian who has never been to Thailand, but it is still topping a few travel lists for 2025 go-to destinations.
Skyscanner has Krabi second on it’s most searched list, and maybe we are looking to get away from the tourism hot spots of Phuket and the island paradise of Koh Samui.
Famous for its stunning scenery and gorgeous beaches, if you are looking for a more authentic Thai experience I’d get in now before the big resorts take over. It’s also well-known for its underwater coral paradise, making it popular with divers and snorkellers.
Bring your camera to capture the stunning sunsets on your social media to be the envy of your friends and family.
Another place where you will get a good bang for your buck against the Australian dollar.
Türkiye (formerly Turkey)
If you’ve been on the fence about an adventure, Türkiye may be the destination for you in 2025.
As the meeting place between Europe and Asia, the country is drenched in history, renowned for excellent food and natural wonders from the historic coastline of Antalya, otherwise known as Türkiye’s Riviera, to the plethora of hot springs and thermal baths.
Or you can enjoy the country’s legendary hospitality, from your restaurant staff to ordinary people you meet in the street.
The central Anatolian area of Cappadocia also made the Forbes Top-25 Places to Visit, with that magazine describing it as a destination steeped in history. You can explore ancient underground cities, try your hand at a traditional pottery class, and enjoy local cuisine.
A word of warning: while generally the country is safe, and getting around is easy on the plentiful public transport, you must avoid the areas in the east bordering Syria and Iran due to the unstable political situation.
Finland
This Scandinavian country came in the top five on Skyscanner’s list. Possibly overlooked for the more popular nations of Sweden and Norway, Finland still has plenty to offer.
As one of the least developed of the Scandinavian countries, it is known for it’s stunning wilderness and landscapes.
It’s a great place to view the northern lights and those who love the great outdoors will be overwhelmed with choice when it comes to hikes, skiing, swimming (strictly summer only), watersports such as canoeing or relaxing in a traditional Finnish sauna.
If culture is more your thing, the fairytale city of Helsinki is peppered with stunning architecture, galleries and cosy coffee shops and restaurants. Helsinki is also an eminently walkable city, so you can enjoy this all on foot.
Plus, Santa is rumoured to live in Lapland in Finland’s north.
What’s on your travel list for 2025? Why not share it in the comments section below?
Also read: How long do you need to save for a holiday?
