These are the hidden gems our Travel Associates advisors say you’ll want to visit before everyone else.
New year, new destinations: where will your travels take you in 2025?
From a glittering Athenian Riviera to eagle-hunting festivals in Mongolia's far west, these are the destinations to discover in 2025. Each come hand-picked from our Travel Associates advisors, and offer a fresh experience for every type of traveller.
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Athens Riviera
Step aside, Côte d'Azur and Amalfi Coast - Greece's Athens Riviera is the Mediterranean's next must-visit shoreline. Just 35 minutes from the Acropolis, the Athens Riviera offers a slice of endless-summer paradise infused with ancient Greek soul.
The newly-opened One&Only Aesthesis and Four Seasons Astir Palace have transformed this coastline into a refined haven perfect for those seeking sophisticated shores away from the usual haunts.
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Bayan-Ölgii, Mongolia
For a truly one of a kind experience, journey to Mongolia's westernmost province in early October for the Golden Eagle Festival. Here, against a backdrop of snow-dusted peaks, witness Kazakh eagle hunters and their magnificent birds take command of the skies as ancient traditions spring to life.
The two-day festival celebrates the heritage of these skilled hunters, who have trained eagles to aid them for generations. Watch in awe as the eagles gracefully soar and dive in competitions demonstrating the hunters' time-honoured partnership with these impressive birds of prey. Attending the festival offers a rare opportunity to be immersed in a unique culture little-touched by the outside world.
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Ahr Valley, Germany
Wine lovers, take note: an hour from Cologne hides a wine paradise producing pinot noirs so good they quietly rival those of Burgundy.
Set within a storybook landscape of half-timbered villages and craggy cliffs, a visit to Ahr Valley promises wine tastings in atmospheric cellars and vineyard walks with breathtaking views. Discover the region's vinous magic now, before its renown spreads beyond Germany's borders.
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Muscat, Oman
Long overlooked in favour of flashier neighbours, the capital of Oman is secretly emerging as a spot for curious travellers seeking new experiences.
A city of captivating contrasts, Muscat intermingles ancient souks and Sultan's palaces with mountain-framed beaches and design-forward architecture.
Wander fragrant spice markets and incense-filled bazaars, explore forts and watchtowers from a bygone era, or simply take in the city's relaxed rhythm at a coffee house. With a crop of stylish hotels and refined dining reshaping Muscat's hospitality scene, the city offers a fresh perspective on Arabia, making 2025 the time to discover Oman before the secret is out.
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Faroe Islands
Tucked between Iceland and Norway, the Faroe Islands' 18 emerald gems guard some of Europe's last true wilderness. Cliffs plunge dramatically into the churning Atlantic, hiding fjords and bays visited by more puffins than people. Turf-roofed cottages dot sheep-grazed hills, vestiges of a Viking past.
From mid-May through July, daylight lingers past 10pm, offering ample time to hike, spot puffins, and revel in the ethereal evening light. In September, the season shifts. Autumnal hues paint the landscapes, and the Northern Lights dance in night skies best admired from the warmth of a hyggelig café.
