Twenty-five of the most epic trips to inspire your travels in 2025

From Bhutan to Bohol, these are our writers' favourite destinations of 2024 to consider visiting

By Hayley Skirka

The past 12 months saw a significant rebound in the global tourism industry, with many destinations experiencing a return to pre-pandemic levels or even surpassing them. With lingering pent-up demand after years of limited opportunities, travellers were keen to get out there and explore. And The National's journalists were no different.

From remote islands to bustling cities, our travel writers have experienced it all. Join us as we recount the most unforgettable journeys of the past year. Whether you fancy seeing real-life dragons in Indonesia, navigating the ancient wonders of Japan or going of the well-trodden path in Malaysia, these are the places we believe deserve a spot on your 2025 travel list.

1. Bhutan

Amankora Thimphu Lodge in the Bhutanese capital. Photo: Amankora

Amankora Thimphu Lodge in the Bhutanese capital. Photo: Amankora

The Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan is shaking off some of its mystery as it undergoes something of a tourism transformation. New direct flights to the country from Dubai, lower daily tourism fees and big projects, such as the coming Gelephu Mindfulness City, will help open up a destination that’s famed for its mountain landscapes, striking dzong fortresses and crisp clean air. Of course, we want to see this gradual opening done in a sustainable way, and thankfully that's exactly what authorities in the kingdom are planning.

• Read Farah Andrews's full story here.

2. Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver comes into its own with coastal walks, pristine beaches and green spaces. Getty Images

Vancouver comes into its own with coastal walks, pristine beaches and green spaces. Getty Images

A stunning coastal city nestled between mountains and the sea, Vancouver offers unrivalled natural beauty and a mountain backdrop that’s ripe for summer hiking and winter skiing. The Canadian city boasts an abundance of coastal walks, pristine beaches and green spaces, including Stanley Park – which is larger than New York's famed Central Park. The city has a diverse cultural scene that’s home to festivals, art galleries, vibrant markets and multicultural neighbourhoods thanks to Vancouver's eclectic demographic with people from more than 150 countries calling it home.

• Read Evelyn Lau's full story here.

3. Panama

Panama's allegedly haunted prison island of Coiba is one of the world's most picturesque places. Getty Images

Panama's allegedly haunted prison island of Coiba is one of the world's most picturesque places. Getty Images

With a strategic location and a very famous canal, Panama has plenty to offer travellers. With both Atlantic and Pacific coastlines, the country teems with lush rainforests, golden beaches and a variety of exotic wildlife, including sloths and endemic monkeys. Historic colonial towns and charming streets brim with Latin American energy and the indigenous tribes of Panama have lots to share with visitors. Meanwhile, offbeat destinations serve up stories galore such as on Coiba, a beautifully terrifying island that was once the world’s largest prison island, and where remnants of its dark past remain enveloped in postcard-perfect scenery.

• Read Hayley Skirka's full story here.

4. Varanasi, India

Varanasi is one of the holiest places for Hindus. Stuart Butler for The National

Varanasi is one of the holiest places for Hindus. Stuart Butler for The National

As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Varanasi in the Ganga Valley is a city that engages all your senses. From the vibrant colours and sounds of its religious ceremonies to the aromatic incense and sounds of the Ganges river, every moment in this city is a sensory overload. While it’s best known as India’s Holy City, Varanasi is also a food lover's paradise, with vendors selling dishes such as deep-fried kachoris and spicy tamatar chaat on almost every street corner.

• Read Stuart Butler's full story here.

5. Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is known for its classical Buddhist temples, gardens, imperial palaces and geishas. Unsplash

Kyoto is known for its classical Buddhist temples, gardens, imperial palaces and geishas. Unsplash

Japan was one of the hottest destinations to visit in 2024 and it was almost impossible to scroll through Instagram without coming across posts from the land of the rising sun. And with Mount Fuji, Tokyo's Shibuya Crossing and numerous Unesco World Heritage sites, it’s not hard to see why. In Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, myriad treasures await, including tea ceremonies, golden temples and bamboo forests. The city is also famed for its kaiseki – a traditional multi-course meal that highlights seasonality and that's executed particularly well at Aman Kyoto.

• Read Gigi Ragland's full story here.

6. Innsbruck, Austria

Bike trails, hiking, cable car rides and alpine scenery can be found in the western Austrian state of Tryol. Photo: Innsbruck Tourism

Bike trails, hiking, cable car rides and alpine scenery can be found in the western Austrian state of Tryol. Photo: Innsbruck Tourism

Alpine awesomeness awaits in Innsbruck, an alluring city nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps. Surrounded by majestic mountains, Innsbruck offers breathtaking views and endless opportunities for outdoor activities, including crystal clear lakes perfect for wild swimming, towering via ferratas and world-class ski resorts such as Nordkette. The picturesque Old Town, with its narrow streets, colourful houses and historic landmarks, offers year-round charm. Arguably, winter is even more magical, when festive markets backed by snow-capped peaks brim and bustle.

• Read Hayley Skirka's full story here.

7. Palau

Palau is a popular spot for divers. Photo: Norimoto

Palau is a popular spot for divers. Photo: Norimoto

Responsible travel and conservation are at the forefront of Palau’s tourism offerings where all visitors must sign a pledge to protect the Pacific Island’s natural resources before setting foot in the destination. With an entire underwater world to explore, including some of the most biodiverse reefs in the world, Palau is already popular with scuba divers, but the tiny archipelago also has plenty to offer on land, from rare creatures to a long-standing indigenous culture. To describe this tiny archipelago as beautiful would simply be to sell it short.

• Read Julian Ryall's full story here.

8. Baghdad, Iraq

Located along the Tigris River, the city of Baghdad has an enduring association with culture. Stuart Butler for The National

Located along the Tigris River, the city of Baghdad has an enduring association with culture. Stuart Butler for The National

While Baghdad isn't on most people’s holiday radar, the Iraqi city is shaking off its past and re-emerging with a view to the future. The destination has made significant strides in improving security and stability in recent years, meaning its culture and history are waiting to be explored. In this city – that was originally named the city of peace – locals are welcoming travellers via community-led tours, cultural events and efforts to preserve historic sites. As intriguing as it is interesting, Baghdad is a vibrant and culturally significant city that's well worth a visit.

• Read Stuart Butler's full story here.

9. Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, is well known for its towering skyscrapers and vibrant city life, but there is more across the country to explore. AFP

Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, is well known for its towering skyscrapers and vibrant city life, but there is more across the country to explore. AFP

While Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia’s most known destination and a city known for its towering skyscrapers, hawker centres and cultural melting pot, the Asian destination has plenty more to offer visitors not least along its east coast, in Kuala Terengganu. The cultural heartland of the country’s ethnic Muslim Malays, this spot is also a paradise for holidaymakers, thanks to 700km of uninterrupted palm-fringed sandy beaches. It's a jumping off point for anyone hoping to explore the country's lesser-known, but rich and diverse textile heritage. Reflecting Malaysia's multicultural tapestry, the industry includes everything from songket weaving to batik painting and there's a cluster of museums dedicated to traditional textiles, plus countless local markets and galleries where travellers can purchase directly from artisans and weavers.

• Read John Brunton's full story here.

10. Oman

Oman's port city of Sur, south of the capital Muscat. AFP

Oman's port city of Sur, south of the capital Muscat. AFP

With the longest coastline in the Gulf region, Oman is one of the most popular destinations for travellers in the Middle East. Famed for its natural beauty, cultural heritage and unique Khareef season, the sultanate is easily reachable from the UAE via road or air and has something to offer every type of traveller.

From the forts, mosques and souqs of Muscat to the golden beaches of Sur and Salalah, Nizwa's history and the mountain peaks of the Hajar range, it is a diverse destination. Of late, there's been a flurry of developments, including several new hotels and upscale restaurants, making it the perfect time to plan a visit.

• Read Hayley Skirka and Evelyn Lau's full story here.

11. Armenia

Noravank Monastery in Armenia, an ancient destination that is full of surprises. Photo: Lumen

Noravank Monastery in Armenia, an ancient destination that is full of surprises. Photo: Lumen

Only three hours from the UAE, this mountainous Caucasus country is a year-round breath of fresh air. Holding the distinction of being the world's first Christian nation, Armenia is home to stunning churches and monasteries dating back centuries, many of which are Unesco World Heritage Sites. Delve into nature on snow-capped mountains and head out on a forest hike or unwind by the shores of Lake Sevan, Armenia's largest lake, then hop on a kayak at Azat Reservoir. This is nature at its humble best.

• Read Bo Jablonski's full story here.

12. Boston, US

The Boston Tea Party is one of the city's most famed historical moments. Photo: Michael Blanchard

The Boston Tea Party is one of the city's most famed historical moments. Photo: Michael Blanchard

In many ways, Boston draws parallels with New York City. It has a bustling Broadway theatre district, a thriving financial hub of skyscrapers and a large public park. Indeed, it seems to have many of the Big Apple's best elements, distilled into a smaller and easier-to-navigate space. But Boston is so much more than that. History is everywhere here – Boston boasts the country’s oldest baseball stadium, Fenway Park, and was the first city in the country to introduce a subway system. Its public library displays the personal book collection of founding father and second president John Adams and it claims the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the US. Among this history is a cosmopolitan bustle, where art galleries, museums and boutique stores vie for space beside high-street shopping and lively bars and restaurants. And with Etihad Airways having launched new direct flights to the Massachusetts capital this year, it's even easier to get there.

• Read Hayley Skirka's full story here.

13. Bohol, Philippines

The Chocolate Hills are a geological formation in Bohol covered in green grass that turns brown during the dry season, giving them their name. Unsplash

The Chocolate Hills are a geological formation in Bohol covered in green grass that turns brown during the dry season, giving them their name. Unsplash

Best known for its natural wonders including its chocolate hills and adorable tarsiers, the world's smallest primates, Bohol in the Philippines offers a blend of cultural heritage and adventure, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking something different. Relax on sandy beaches, snorkel in bright blue waters, island hop through hidden coves and soar over rainforest canopies.

• Read Hayley Kadrou's full story here.

14. Cartagena, Colombia

Cafe Havana is one of Cartagena's best-known live music and salsa spots. Deena Kamel / The National

Cafe Havana is one of Cartagena's best-known live music and salsa spots. Deena Kamel / The National

Over the years, Colombia has been busy shaking off its negative reputation and building a name for itself among holidaymakers. And nowhere is this more apparent than in Cartagena, a fascinating city that offers travellers a fusion of history, nature and fascinating culture. In the Unesco World Heritage site that is the walled city of Cartagena, tourists can explore colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. Take a boat trip to the nearby Rosario Islands to sun worship on white-sand beaches and swim with diverse marine life. Wherever you go, savour the flavours of Colombian cuisine, including a myriad of fresh seafood and tropical fruits. And with Emirates now flying to Bogota, getting to the South American destination from the UAE is easier than ever.

• Read Deena Kamel's full story here.

15. Albania

Berat is a 2,400-year-old Unesco World Heritage Site. Unsplash

Berat is a 2,400-year-old Unesco World Heritage Site. Unsplash

Nestled between northern Greece and Montenegro, Albania offers stunning coastlines, myriad archaeological sites and affordability and is quickly gaining a reputation as one of Europe's hidden gems, which means it is not likely to hold the title for too much longer. But in the rural regions of this country, tourists are only just beginning to uncover its beauty. From breathtaking mountain ranges, perfect for hiking and trekking, to river canyons ideal for rafting and Albanian villages where time seems to stand still and visitors are invited to bed-down in traditional farmhouse, there's plenty to uncover in this Balkan escape.

• Read Zinara Rathnayake's full story here.

16. Mexico City

The National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City contains artefacts from pre-Columbian times. John Brunton for The National

The National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City contains artefacts from pre-Columbian times. John Brunton for The National

Latin America’s largest metropolis can be intimidating for the first time visitor, but with a few key tips and a bit of forward planning, it’s perfectly possible to explore Mexico City's unique past, from pre-Hispanic culture through the baroque golden age of Spain’s colonial conquistadores to revolution, independence and today’s vibrant art and architecture scene in only a few days.

• Read John Brunton's full story here.

17. Ghent, Belgium

Ghent has long been a pioneer of eco-living for citizens and visitors. Unsplash

Ghent has long been a pioneer of eco-living for citizens and visitors. Unsplash

Belgium's Flemish port city is a long-time eco pioneer and the perfect place for a European city jaunt for travellers seeking an under-the-radar destination. Outrageously pretty, Ghent is all waterways, sky-poking steeples, detailed facades and quirky ziggurat-esque roofs, and travellers will find that every corner brings another random turret, garden courtyard or art nouveau chocolate shop. But what makes Ghent so unique, are its offbeat attractions that actively promotes alternative culture. From the 19th century industrial heritage site of rusting cranes, abandoned warehouses and factories that’s been brought back to life as craft breweries, theatres and parks to the hundreds of works of street art in the graffiti friendly city, it’s a destination worth exploring.

• Read John Brunton's full story here.

18. Rabat, Morocco

Chellah is a medieval fortified Muslim necropolis. The ancient archaeological site is just one attraction for tourists visiting Rabat. Photo: Ciconia Chellah

Chellah is a medieval fortified Muslim necropolis. The ancient archaeological site is just one attraction for tourists visiting Rabat. Photo: Ciconia Chellah

Ask many people what the capital of Morocco is and chances are they'll list some of the Northern African destination's most famous cities – Casablanca, Marrakesh, Fez. Indeed, not everyone will know that charming Rabat is actually the capital, and that's a perfect reason to go visit.

Offering a unique experience, combining history, culture and natural beauty, Rabat boasts a Medina, a fortified citadel and one of the world's largest mosques. It's also the place to go for unique shopping with treasures to be found in the city's bustling souqs and bazaars. And with a raft of development and investment, the future looks bright for this Atlantic facing city.

• Read Nasri Atallah's full story here.

19. Nepal

Sunset over Patan Burbar Square - a Unesco World Heritage Site - at the centre of Lalitpur city in Nepal. Alamy

Sunset over Patan Burbar Square - a Unesco World Heritage Site - at the centre of Lalitpur city in Nepal. Alamy

Many travellers head to Nepal to embrace the chaos of Kathmandu, summit some of the Himalayan country's most famous peaks or explore peace and serenity in Pokhara. But Jomsom, a charming town nestled in the Mustang district and that was previously off-limits to visitors, remains largely undiscovered among international tourists. Surrounded by majestic mountain peaks, including Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri, Jomsom is part of the Kali Gandaki Valley, one of the deepest gorges in the world. With new luxury hotels and traditional Thakali culture combining, the destination also offers unrivalled seclusion. Go now to embrace that before Jomsom becomes one of Nepal's must-visit destinations.

• Read Bibek Bhandari's full story here.

20. Maldives

Soneva Fushi in the Maldives is home to 63 villas with private swimming pools. Photo: Soneva

Soneva Fushi in the Maldives is home to 63 villas with private swimming pools. Photo: Soneva

A destination that needs no introduction, the Maldives has been a coveted destination for travellers seeking luxurious and exclusive getaways surrounded by amazing natural scenery. Consistently ranking among one of the most popular places to go for UAE travellers, the tropical archipelago is just a four-hour flight away. The paradisaical islands are also a destination that's evolved over the past decade, moving away from being seen primarily as a honeymooners paradise into a place that has something for everyone. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly escape, a diving holiday with unrivalled marine life or a wellness getaway, there's options for all types of trip and budget. In Soneva, a resort chain founded in the Maldives and the place that pioneered the “no shoes, no news” mantra, that has been copied by resorts across the destination, travellers are encouraged to unplug from the stresses of modern life and embrace a slower, more peaceful existence.

• Read Sarah Maisey's full story here.

21. Lakshadweep, India

Agatti Island has a languorous pace and there are lots of options for exploring the aquatic diversity. iStockphoto

Agatti Island has a languorous pace and there are lots of options for exploring the aquatic diversity. iStockphoto

While visiting Lakshadweep involves securing permits and navigating restrictions on tourist activities, the stunning Indian archipelago is worth the effort for travellers seeking a tranquil escape. Surrounded by the Indian Ocean, the region rivals the Maldives in beauty – its 36 islands boast pristine white-sand beaches, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation, while the surrounding waters are teeming with colourful coral reefs, diverse marine life and excellent opportunities for snorkelling and scuba diving. Unique Cultural Experiences are also on offer, as travellers can get the chance to experience the simple traditional lifestyle of the islanders.

• Read Teja Lele's full story here.

22. Red Sea, Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia's Red Sea destination uses carefully considered lighting to ensure the night sky shines brightest. Photo: Red Sea Global

Saudi Arabia's Red Sea destination uses carefully considered lighting to ensure the night sky shines brightest. Photo: Red Sea Global

Stretching 28,000 square kilometres along the north-west of the kingdom, Saudi Arabia's coastal region is surrounded by sand dunes and pristine waters. The region is building its reputation as a holiday spot via the treasures found in its untouched waters – which boast everything from colourful corals to dolphins, rays, clownfish and more. The destination is also void of light pollution and on track to become certified as one of the largest Dark Sky Reserves in the world, which means it's a magical place to be after dark.

• Read Hayley Skirka's full story here.

23. Cappadocia, Turkey

Hot air balloons launch in Goreme Historical National Park in Cappadocia. AFP

Hot air balloons launch in Goreme Historical National Park in Cappadocia. AFP

While hot air balloon rides are a quintessential Cappadocia experience, there's much more to discover beyond the skies in this Turkish destination. Delve into the depths of Derinkuyu Underground City, a massive underground city, complete with churches, wineries and living quarters or discover a glimpse into the lives of early Christians who sought refuge in Kaymakli Underground City. Trek Cappadocia's untouched nature, from the picturesque Rose Valley to the Red Valley, filled with vibrant red rock formations. History is never too far away at places such as the Goreme Open-Air Museum and Uchisar Castle. And of course, Turkish cuisine is another highlight with the likes of kebab, pide and baklava on menus across the city.

• Read Evelyn Lau's full story here.

24. Cambodia

Angkor Wat may draw tourists to Siem Reap, but there are plenty more sights to see in the area. Getty Images

Angkor Wat may draw tourists to Siem Reap, but there are plenty more sights to see in the area. Getty Images

A tiny south-east Asian gem, Cambodia offers Unesco World Heritage sites filled with ancient carvings, temple ponds and towering spires. In Siem Reap, local markets and Khmer culture combine to offer travellers a fascinating glimpse into this destination that also counts pristine beaches and epic marine life among its treasures. Off the beaten path discoveries await in Battambang's arts and crafts, and Kampot's colonial architecture while the country's cuisine is a delight, influenced by Chinese, Thai and Vietnamese flavours.

• Read Ronan O'Connell's full story here.

25. Indonesia beyond Bali

Pura Ulun Danu Beratan is a major Hindu temple along the shores of Lake Beratan in the mountains in Bali, Indonesia. Alamy

Pura Ulun Danu Beratan is a major Hindu temple along the shores of Lake Beratan in the mountains in Bali, Indonesia. Alamy

While Bali is undoubtedly a beautiful destination, Indonesia is made up of more than 18,000 islands, so there is plenty more for travellers to discover. Whether you opt to explore Raja Ampat's aquatic splendour, Lombok's rugged terrain or Jakarta's urban hustle, this country has something for everyone. Central Java is only a one-hour flight from Bali and brims with ancient temples. In Komodo National Park, get up close and personal with the raw, pre-historic beauty of the Komodo dragons, then unwind on pristine beaches. Or head to Sumatra to venture into untamed jungles, lush rainforests and the volcanic peaks of Mount Kerinci.

• Read Scott Campbell's full story here.