Blame the weather or the lack of sunlight, but at this time of year, we're hard-wired to start planning how to use our annual leave. I spoke to experts from across the travel industry and spent hours researching the buzziest new hotel launches to compile a guide to the stylish holiday destinations worth adding to your bucket list for 2025.
A quick glance through this list reveals just how much streaming habits are influencing global travel—this trend for Netflix-inspired itineraries has been named "set-jetting." Thanks to the upcoming third series of The White Lotus, Thailand is poised to be one of the key destinations to visit in 2025, whilst Emily in Paris has led to a surge in visitors to the French Alpine village of Megève and people are embarking on their own Race Across the World-inspired voyages.
If you want something a little more off-the-beaten-track and away from the TikTok crowds, consider staying in a remote treehouse in Nicaragua or gorilla trekking in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Uganda. At a time when over-tourism is at an alarming high, we've also highlighted a number of sustainably minded and conscious hotels that promise to protect and conserve precious local ecosystems.
From the island set to be the star of the Mediterranean this year to the New York icon reopening its doors, below we're bring you nine holiday ideas that will make 2025 a year to remember.
TRAVEL TRENDS 2025: 9 STYLISH DESTINATIONS TO HAVE ON YOUR RADAR
1. South Coast of Sri Lanka
Image Credit: @_livmadeline; @speddingemma
In 2024, Sri Lanka experienced a significant boom in tourism—a comeback after the UK government warned against travel to the country after economic unrest in 2022. The likes of Mia Regan and Bel Powley (and me) started off 2025 exploring the country, where you can assemble a rich and varied itinerary, stalking leopards in Yala National Park one day and hiking through the beautiful Knuckles Mountain Range the next. Listed as Kuoni’s second key travel destination for 2025, it is proving particularly popular amongst honeymooners, thanks to beautiful luxury resorts such as Ceylon Tea Trails, Amanwella and Uga Chena Huts (to name a few).
Where to stay: Although Sri Lanka will always be a popular multi-stop touring destination, clusters of surfer towns along the south coast are making this a new hub for digital nomads and 30-somethings, likened to Bali before it became a victim of overtourism. I spent two weeks snaking my way along the jungle-lined coast; eating egg hoppers, catching tuktuks to the beach and attempting to surf. I can confirm it was the ultimate factory reset. Ahangama in the Galle region has been dubbed the "Shoreditch of Sri Lanka", with highly aesthetic boutiques like The Kip and The Palm, whilst Hiriketiya and Dickwella Beach were my favourite spots.
What to pack: There's a laid-back surfer vibe, so perhaps apart from one dressier night for sunset cocktails at Smoke and Bitters (which has been named one of the top 50 bars in Asia), you'll spend most of your time in shorts, loose linens, graphic tees and lashings of SPF. If you don’t yet own a surf suit, there are plenty of boutiques that can help you look the part.
2. Nicaragua
Image Credit: Getty; @roseenglandlondon
We all have that one friend who is 10 steps ahead of everyone else when it comes to travel plans, and my jet-setting friend just spent her honeymoon hiking volcano craters, staying in treehouses and unwinding along the Caribbean coast in Nicaragua. Conde Nast Traveller highlighted the Emerald Coast in Nicaragua as one of the top destinations in 2025, explaining: "Think of it as Mexico’s Tulum before the over-tourism, or Costa Rica’s Santa Teresa without the crowds." Mr and Mrs Smith’s co-founder and CEO Tamara Lohan highlights this as one of her key travel trends for 2025, noting that its "lush jungles and pristine beaches are the ideal backdrop for relaxation and practising mindfulness."
Where to stay: "Morgan’s Rock Hacienda and Ecolodge, nestled in the lush Nicaraguan rainforest, is the epitome of understated luxury," says Lohan of where to book. "At this environmentally friendly retreat, conservation is a priority, and guests have the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature, staying in secluded villas with panoramic ocean views. In addition to this true sanctuary’s green ethos, there are private beaches and a tranquil atmosphere, making it the perfect choice for those in search of peace."
If you want to lean into wellness, she recommends checking into the new Yemaya Reefs; a hotel on Little Corn Island known for its "stunning coral reefs and untouched beaches, and for being a barefoot haven for travellers seeking a holistic experience." My friend, however, tells me that Jicaro Island Lodge was one of the most magical places she’s ever stayed. Located on an isle in Lake Nicaragua, there are casitas overlooking the lush forest canopy of coconut and mango trees and the Mombacho Volcano.
What to pack: You'll need practical activewear for your kayaking and hiking trips, however, those visiting the Emerald Coast and secluded Corn Islands will want to lean into carefree island styling, with lots of crochet and sunset colours. FYI: flights to the Corn Islands have strict baggage restrictions of 13kg per person.
3. Manhattan, New York City
Image Credit: @lefevrediary; @thecarolinelin; @emmaleger
A weekend in New York is always a good idea, and Mr and Mrs Smith highlighted that this is going to be a big year for transatlantic city breaks, as the Six Senses opens in London and the Twenty Two takes Manhattan. "New York continues to dominate as a destination for cultural exploration, shopping sprees and culinary excellence," notes Lohan.
Where to stay: "In 2025, (the city’s 400th birthday, as it happens), [New York's] luxury hotel offerings will become even more enticing, with newcomer hotel, The Twenty Two New York," says Lohan. "This addition to Manhattan’s ever-evolving hospitality scene has elegant, contemporary interiors, but sits within the Margaret Louisa Home, one of the city’s grandest historic brownstones and a base that encapsulates New York’s enduring charm, with impeccable service to boot."
Another key hotel launch is the reopening of the Waldorf Astoria in spring 2025 following a grand renovation project. The Park Avenue property first opened in 1931 and was once the largest hotel in the world. It's all you want from a New York hotel—Marilyn Monroe once lived in suite 2727, Elizabeth Taylor moved into suite 28H in the '80s, and Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier III of Monaco hosted their engagement party here.
What to pack: You want to bring comfortable everyday basics for long days walking through Central Park, exploring the MOMA and spending the afternoon in Williamsburg. Dress up your knitwear and oversized denim with well-selected accessories, such as this Savette bag, Khaite's studded Benny belt and a logo cap—The Carlyle’s collab with Sporty & Rich is leading the way when it comes to hotel merch.
4. Marseille, France
Image Credit: @emmanuellek_; @laurareilly___; @theindiaedit; @emmahoareau
If you’re heading to the French Riviera, Marseille is now considered a more stylish option than its ostentatious neighbour, Saint-Tropez. Its It status was confirmed when Chanel hosted its cruise collection here in May last year.
Where to go: Marseille has been having a renaissance for several years, with fashion insiders staying at design-led boutique hotels such as Tuba Club and Casa Youm (a new hotel in a home formerly owned by the artist Paul Cézanne). Vogue’s Naomi Smart—who has a keen eye for interiors—recommends the four-bedroom B&B Pension Edelweiss. Whilst you'll want to fill your suitcase with traditional cubed soaps, Marseille is also becoming a shopping destination for more than just Bretons and fragrance—concept store Jogging is a must-visit.
What to pack: For a summer break, lean on casual Riviera classics, with denim shorts, floral prints, white sundresses and raffia accessories. The current fisherman aesthetic is ideal for weekend strolls at the Vieux-Port.
5. Cape Town, South Africa
Image Credit: @spiritedpursuit; @claudia_berresford
Tamara Lohan calls out Cape Town as one of Mr and Mrs Smith’s four key destinations for 2025. "The South African jewel on the southern tip of the continent offers mountain views, pristine beaches and a culture that’s as rich and as intoxicating as the wines it’s famous for. The city has long been a favourite of mine, and now with its growing focus on sustainability and wellness, Cape Town is set to welcome an influx of other discerning travellers who want a restorative break and to connect with nature," she says.
Where to stay: Lohan advises you check into the Mount Nelson Hotel, which is "nestled in the lush gardens at the foot of Table Mountain and is a sanctuary of calm in a city that pulses with energy." She also spotlights the Coot Club hotel in the Overberg region, positioned between the mountains and the ocean, where "lovers of the outdoors can wander secluded beaches, hike along nature reserves or indulge in gourmet meals created with sustainably grown, local ingredients."
What to pack: Visitors to Cape Town tend to combine challenging hikes with long, wine-fuelled lunches, so you’ll want to pack sensible outfits for trekking, along with dresses and sandals for elegant vineyard visits.
6. Thailand
Image Credit: @annaaborisovna; @spiritedpursuit; @cassklatzkow; @jeannine.roxas
Travel company Kuoni has named Thailand the number one destination for 2025, with a growing number of eco-conscious resorts and wellness retreats. The trailer for The White Lotus season three only dropped last week, but the social satire TV drama is once again leading a tourism boom in the country it's set. According to The New York Times, after the initial location announcement, Expedia noted a 50% spike in searches for Thailand.
Where to stay: Although you wouldn’t want to find yourself on a sunlounger next to any of The White Lotus's characters, the location scouts do have exceptional taste in hotels—this season is filmed at the Four Seasons private peninsula in Koh Samui and the Anantara Mai Khao Villas near Phuket, where wooden villas are dotted around a lagoon. "For travellers seeking unique experiences, destinations like Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai provide off-the-beaten-path adventures with temple tours led by monks, sustainable farming experiences in hill tribe villages and hot air balloon rides over rice paddies," adds luxury travel planner Soni Dhariwal.
What to pack: Daphne Sullivan (played by Meghann Fahy in The White Lotus) dresses like she went wild insModa Operandi’s resort edit, with outfits that are the fashion equivalent of a pina colada. Yes, her styling choices err towards the basic, and her perfectly styled hair isn’t exactly "beach", but there's something rather fabulous about how much she gets "dressed" for a day at the pool, making her our resortwear icon. If you can’t wear a fruit-bowl printed sarong at the Four Seasons Koh Samui, where can you?
7. East Africa
Image Credit: @spiritedpursuit; @matildabeaa; @chey_maya
Perhaps it’s the Race Across The World effect, but there has been a rise in the popularity of touring trips, particularly through East Africa. "Multi-country trips are gaining popularity, allowing travellers to combine gorilla trekking in Rwanda with beach stays on private Seychelles islands," says Dhariwal.
Where to stay: "JW Marriott Masai Mara’s new lodge offers a heightened safari experience with private plunge pools and curated wildlife excursions, whilst Zanzibar’s upcoming Emerald Zanzibar Resort & Spa promises all-inclusive beachfront luxury with a Swahili-inspired design," recommends Dhariwal.
Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and Uganda Airlines' new direct flight from Gatwick to Entebbe makes visiting the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park (which is home to more than half of the world’s mountain gorilla population) a little easier. Stay at the Gorilla Forest Camp, which is right next to the entrance to the park, or the soon-to-open New Silverback Lodge, which has 12 spectacular nests overlooking the misty forest. In Rwanda, meanwhile, the ultra-luxury One and Only Gorilla’s Nest is nestled amongst eucalyptus groves next to the Volcanoes National Park, where you can follow families of wild mountain gorillas through the jungle with an expert tracking team.
Lohan notes Tanzania as a key destination for 2025 and as a leader in sustainable travel. "Cherero Camp, a new addition to the Tanzanian safari circuit, puts guests in the heart of national park bushland," she says of key places to stay. "This intimate eco-lodge gives guests a chance to survey Tanzania’s wildlife in a way that’s both sustainable, making a minimal impact on the environment, and intimate, ensuring your experience is both enriching and responsible."
As for the beach element, she notes that "Bawe Island Lodge, just off the coast of Zanzibar, has white-sand beaches and coral reefs kept vibrant thanks to impressive eco efforts and acts as a gateway to discovering Zanzibar’s rich culture. You can enjoy its tropical luxury guilt-free, knowing that the peaceful, picturesque lodge is dedicated to preserving the island’s delicate eco-system."
What to pack: For the lodges, it’s all about waterproof jackets, sturdy hiking boots and a lot of insect repellent when you're wading deep into the jungle. However, you'll want printed dresses and skirts for the beach.
8. Sardinia, Italy
Image Credit: Getty; @rosielai; @sasha.mei
Instead of the Amalfi Coast, discerning travellers will explore Sardinia this year for a slice of La Dolce Vita. An island with a rich, storied history, this is where the likes of Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn used to holiday. "Sardinia is set to be a top destination for 2025, offering a blend of luxury, authenticity and natural beauty," says Dhariwal. "Known for its rugged coastlines, secluded beaches and ancient Nuragic culture, Sardinia offers an idyllic Mediterranean escape. Its slow travel culture is appealing, with opportunities to explore pristine hiking trails, traditional villages and the crystal-clear waters of the La Maddalena Archipelago."
Where to stay: This renaissance is being driven by a booming luxury hotel scene—the Romazzino reopened as a spectacular Belmond property in 2024, the Mandarin Oriental is launching on the island this year and LVMH’s Cheval Blanc has taken over the Hotel Pitrizza (an iconic property from the 1960s), reopening in 2026 as Cheval Blanc Pitrizza. Watching the yachts in the Porto Cervo marina with a negroni, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported straight into a sun-drenched Slim Aarons photograph from 1967.
What to pack: Instead of flip-flops and denim cut-offs, embrace the nostalgic glamour of Sardinia with retro swimwear, printed silk scarves and oversized sunglasses. Here, more is absolutely more.
9. Megève, France
Image Credit: Netflix; @emmanuellek_; @emmaleger;
Traditionally, skiing has been reserved for the privileged few, however, winter sports are steadily becoming more accessible, with many people now trying to snow plough for the first time in their thirties. Classic ski resorts such as Courchevel and St Moritz, are proving popular for those wanting a fairytale mountain experience, however, ski operator Heidi has seen a 183% increase in ski bookings for Megève compared to 2024. This is credited to the fourth season of Emily In Paris, where Emily visits this Alpine village dressed like Audrey Hepburn in the 1963 film Charade—which was also filmed in Megève. The resort was opened in the 1910s by the Rothschild family who wanted an alternative to St Moritz, and it quickly became a magnet for Hollywood royalty as Audrey Hepburn, Catherine Deneuve and Brigitte Bardot all frequented these slopes.
Where to stay: For a luxury mountain experience, you simply can’t beat the Four Seasons.
What to pack: Dressing like Audrey Hepburn in Charade might feel a little too on the nose, however for winter trips, embrace a classic Alpine aesthetic with retro-inspired skiwear, Fair Isle knits and knitted bonnets and scarves.
