Top Travel Destinations for 2025

Discover the World with iBestTravel’s Curated Travel Experiences

Our desire to get back out and explore the world is stronger than ever. From an intrepid trip to Antarctica to a go-slow train journey across some of Southeast Asia’s most mesmerising landscapes, we’ve picked out our favourite trips to plan for 2022, hand in hand with the most respected and trustworthy tour operators out there.

Exciting Itineraries for 2022

  • Tahiti
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    Egypt with Pelorus

    The year 2022 marks significant historical events in Egypt. A trip begins in Cairo, your base for excursions to the Pyramids at Giza and an exclusive viewing of treasures at the Grand Museum. Experience a unique perspective with a skydive over the desert, and then explore Luxor and the Valley of Kings. A Nile cruise aboard the dahabiya Nour et Nil enhances this extraordinary journey, allowing for visits to ancient villages and serene swim stops.

    Price: 10 nights, from £17,000 per person

  • Antarctica
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    Antarctica with Abercrombie and Kent

    In light of recent climate discussions, traveling responsibly is paramount. This unique journey departs from Ushuaia, utilizing sustainable practices aboard a next-generation cruise ship. Enjoy exhilarating polar exploration, including intimate encounters with wildlife, amidst one of the planet’s most fragile ecosystems.

    Price: 12 nights, from £10,445 per person (set December departure dates)

  • Israel
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    Israel with Wix Squared

    This captivating land is filled with contrasts, history, and beauty. Begin your adventure in Jerusalem, exploring ancient landmarks, then hike to Masada and relax in the Dead Sea. Experience a blend of culture and nature in Nazareth, culminating in a luxurious stay at Six Senses Shaharut, nestled in the Negev Desert.

    Price: 13 nights, from £11,191 per person

Experiential Travel in Asia

  • Southeast Asia
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    Singapore and Thailand with Trailfinders

    Embark on a leisurely train journey from Singapore to Bangkok aboard the Eastern and Oriental Express. Immerse yourself in stunning landscapes, notable cities, and delectable cuisine as you enjoy an unforgettable travel experience across Southeast Asia.

    Price: 11 nights from £3,999 per person

Adventures in Africa

  • Botswana Safari
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    Botswana with Black Tomato

    Experience exclusive Botswana safaris known for their wildlife encounters and natural beauty. Enjoy unique experiences, including quad bike safaris and sustainable living at luxurious lodges amidst stunning landscapes, making this an unforgettable bucket-list adventure.

    Price: Seven nights, from £19,750 per person


Top Travel Destinations to Visit in 2025

These most exciting new openings in travel carve a clear path of destinations you need to get to – now

27 April 2023

Atlantis the Royal in Dubai
Atlantis The Royal

Nothing makes us more excited to get up and go than putting together our annual Hot List, now in its 27th year. This curated collection of the world’s best new hotels, cruises, restaurants, cultural destinations, and transportation projects is a labour of love for our global team, who spend the year researching, visiting, and vetting the entries to bring you a definitive directory of new standards for hospitality. This year, we changed our approach to destinations, anointing a list of places around the world that appear in multiple categories – including hotels, restaurants, cruises, museums, and more. The result is a dynamic collection of places you should travel to next. Here’s where in the world of travel you need to go now, according to our 2023 winners.

Oslo

When it comes to big Scandinavian cities, Oslo often plays understudy to foodie capitals like Copenhagen or stylish Stockholm. However, this is the year for Norway’s capital to truly take centre stage. One reason is the new, buzzy hotel in the heart of the city’s Frogner neighbourhood. The 231-room stay channels the building’s 1930s origins, showcasing the period’s glamour with hand-knotted rugs, inlaid wooden headboards, and Art Deco chandeliers. With seven smart bars and restaurants, including a unique Nordic-Japanese spot, the hotel has quickly become a popular gathering space for the city’s trendsetters. Adding to Oslo’s fresh appeal is the National Museum, which unifies collections from the former National Gallery, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Norwegian Museum of Decorative Arts and Design in one minimalist structure. This museum spotlights Norwegian art through the ages, including iconic works and Indigenous Sámí artwork.

New York

It’s hard to imagine a year that New York couldn’t top a destinations Hot List, but there has likely not been a better time than this to do so. New York dominated several categories this year with noteworthy hotel openings, including a reborn classic hotel and a graceful international addition. Furthermore, Brooklyn’s latest culinary giant introduces a refreshingly non-showy approach to dining, earning a spot as one of the world’s hottest restaurant openings. Nearby, famous chefs continue to deliver exciting culinary experiences. Not to mention, the new Broadway Museum brings visitors closer than ever to the stories of the Great White Way and enhances the overall experience of this magnificent city.

Dubai

There seems to always be a plethora of reasons to explore this emirate at the crossroads of the world. This year, a standout hotel makes that case alone: Atlantis The Royal, a luxurious mega hotel that opened with a headline performance that became globally renowned. It elevates the already high standards of luxury accommodation. Yet, alongside its opulence, quieter projects with heartfelt execution are shaping the landscape just as much. For instance, the opening of Jun’s, from a celebrated chef, offers a culinary experience that blends diverse flavors in innovative dishes.

Sydney

After reopening its borders, Australia has exploded with fresh ways to explore the country, emphasizing community-driven sustainability. Sydney is definitely the go-to starting point for any trip. This year, the Emerald City opened the landmark Sydney Modern Project, focusing on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art, marking the largest expansion to the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Additionally, a new creative hotel has arrived in Surrey Hills, bringing a vibrant atmosphere complete with a rooftop restaurant and all-day bar in the lobby.

Argentina

This South American country is ever-popular, with urban and rural appeal. In Mendoza, a pioneering winemaker has opened a unique property featuring art and exceptional cuisine with a pronounced focus on wine. This establishment promises to be a game changer in accommodations. In Buenos Aires, an exciting new venue emerges reflecting a blend of culinary traditions, showcasing standout dishes that appeal to diverse palates.

Bangkok

Bangkok is undoubtedly one of Southeast Asia’s biggest and busiest cities. It’s an urban center combining sleek luxury hotels, gilded Buddhist temples, and some of the best street food globally. What makes this city intoxicating and one of our Hot List destinations is its ability to surprise. Recently, a new hotel brought playful energy to the city’s accommodation scene. Moreover, a celebrated Thai chef opened a restaurant that defies culinary boundaries. Additionally, the opening of an expansive urban green space has also enhanced the city’s appeal.

Antarctica

Antarctica stands out as a destination we’re most excited about this year. For the first time in 27 years of our annual Hot List, we’ve spotlighted a hotel located in Antarctica. This honor goes to an adventure-chic hotel featuring futuristic pods with stunning vistas of the dramatic mountains. Furthermore, several top cruise ships now sail to this breathtaking seventh continent, making it more appealing than ever for intrepid travelers.

Top 24 Travel Destinations for 2025

The Best Places to Go in 2024

In considering the destinations that excite us the most for 2024, there’s an overarching sense of possibility.

When the last corners of Asia fully reopened their borders earlier this year, the pandemic’s claim on our travels finally fell away. We, as travellers, are now more able to set our sights on the farthest-reaching adventures, to dust off our bucket lists—and in many cases, return to the places we love and miss. While the world remains unpredictable and complicated, being reminded that travel is the greatest of luxuries compels us to ask the question: what should we do with our enviable power to traverse the globe in 2024? Where, we wonder, will we go first?

Reasons to Travel Far and Wide

There are numerous compelling reasons to embark on exciting journeys in the year ahead. Emerging boutique hotels, wellness resorts, and expedition cruises are continually vying for the attention of travellers with fresh offerings, prompting a careful consideration of what it means to be relevant, exciting, and sustainable. In fact, destinations are increasingly focusing on pioneering eco-tourism initiatives and restorative land stewardship efforts, engaging local communities by honoring their narratives.

Our Definitive Guide to Travel in 2024

To help you find a trip worthy of your time off, we’ve collaborated with travel editors worldwide. After months of research and debate, we’ve curated a definitive guide that highlights the top 24 travel destinations for 2024. This list mirrors the size, beauty, diversity, and ever-changing nature of our extraordinary world.

Featured Destinations

Budapest, Hungary

Go for: A fresh take on the 150-year-old city.

Budapest is alive with a unique blend of historic attractions and newly opened hotels. Renowned for its diverse architecture, from art nouveau to gothic and baroque, this capital city thrives with creativity, reflecting its vibrant nightlife and historic significance.

Cyclades, Greece

Go for: Salt-air island hopping made easier than ever.

With stylish boutique hotels and newly established flight routes, island-hopping among the Cyclades is now more accessible than ever. From Mykonos to Santorini, this region captivates with stunning beaches and unparalleled shopping experiences.

Yorkshire, United Kingdom

Go for: Star chefs leading a culinary revolution.

Known for its picturesque landscapes, Yorkshire is home to a wave of Michelin-starred restaurants. Visitors can enjoy rich dining experiences paired with stunning natural vistas.

Mauritius

Go for: Indian Ocean waters, cultural museums, and luxurious beach villas.

With a rich cultural scene and vibrant hospitality industry, Mauritius stands out as an attractive destination with exciting new offerings for visitors, including museums highlighting the island’s colonial history.

South and Central Sri Lanka

Go for: Wellness retreats and extensive nature trails.

Sri Lanka’s tourism sector is experiencing a luxury and wellness boom with new retreats and hiking opportunities catering to wellness enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Red Sea, Saudi Arabia

Go for: Pristine natural beauty and sustainable tourism.

Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea aims to establish itself as a center for regenerative tourism, promising to preserve its natural habitats while welcoming luxury travelers.

Grenada

Go for: New direct flights and luxurious resorts.

With new flight routes, Grenada is set to become a more accessible Caribbean destination, perfect for travelers seeking culture, luxury, and adventure.

Kosovo

Go for: New hiking and biking trails in pristine countryside.

The unspoiled valleys of Kosovo present an ideal backdrop for outdoor adventures, promising unforgettable hiking and biking experiences.

French Polynesia

Go for: Olympic surfing and beautiful biodiversity.

Tahiti, preparing for the Olympic surf competition, offers visitors a unique blend of cultural experiences and ecological wonders.

Accra, Ghana

Go for: A pan-African cultural renaissance and vibrant culinary scene.

Accra is booming with pop-up restaurants and cultural events, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to experience contemporary African culture.

Guatemala

Go for: Cruises leading to ancient ruins and an artsy atmosphere.

With increasing tour offerings, Guatemala’s rich history and natural beauty make it a compelling destination to explore in 2024.

The Kimberley, Australia

Go for: Pristine wilderness and First Nations cultural immersions.

The Kimberley region in Western Australia is becoming more accessible with new cruise lines seeking to showcase its natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Kobe, Japan

Go for: High design and culinary delights.

Kobe is strengthening its reputation for design and cuisine, featuring new creative spaces and dining experiences.

Okavango Delta, Botswana

Go for: Exclusive safari camps and a unique landscape.

With a wave of new lodges opening, the Okavango Delta offers unparalleled safari experiences amidst its stunning ecosystems.

Madagascar

Go for: Unique biodiversity and thrilling adventures.

Madagascar is renowned for its distinct wildlife and pristine landscapes, offering an exciting destination for adventurous travelers.

Magdalena River, Colombia

Go for: Scenic cruises rich in culture.

The Magdalena River is becoming a sought-after travel route, showcasing Colombia’s rich history through scenic river cruises.

Mongolia

Go for: Improved access and cultural festivals.

Mongolia is set to attract more travelers with new luxury lodges and cultural experiences that celebrate its rich heritage.

Northern Rivers, Australia

Go for: Adaptive surfing and immersive hiking experiences.

This culturally rich region is bouncing back from past floods, with new hospitality projects and outdoor adventures burgeoning throughout the area.

Quebec, Canada

Go for: Nature immersion and cultural experiences.

Quebec invites travelers to engage in Indigenous-led experiences, offering unique opportunities for cultural enrichment and natural exploration.

Quito, Ecuador

Go for: A city on the rise with culinary delights.

Quito’s mix of modern architecture and colonial charm is paired with an emerging culinary scene, making it a captivating destination.

San Pedro de Atacama, Chile

Go for: Stargazing and exploring national parks.

This destination is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures among stunning natural landscapes, complemented by unique lodging options.

Santa Fe, US

Go for: Cultural spotlight and historical celebrations.

As Santa Fe prepares for various cultural events, including the centennial of the Burning of the Zozobra, this city offers rich cultural experiences.

South Island, New Zealand

Go for: Immersive Māori history and stunning landscapes.

New Zealand’s South Island combines breathtaking nature with rich cultural offerings, perfect for adventurous travelers.

Upstate New York, US

Go for: Bucolic lodging and exceptional hiking.

This region features a blend of outdoor adventures and chic accommodations, appealing to nature lovers and travelers alike.


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