It’s time to ring in the New Year, but also time to think about your 2025 travel plans. This list of underrated travel destinations is for the seasoned traveler who has been a ton of places, but is looking for their next jawdropping excursion.
Datça, Turkey
Located over 400 miles away from Istanbul, Datça is a beautiful peninsula in Turkey that you’ve probably never heard of. This underrated travel destination is perfect for the traveler looking for Mediterranean vibes but still off the beaten path for most international travelers.
This quiet, beautiful town allows for a peaceful travel experience with sandy beaches, restaurants and cafes and winery experiences. If you’re not interested in clubbing and nightlife this is the destination for you. During your stay you can take a stroll to Ilica Lake or take a dip in the Ilica-Kargi geothermal bath.
🌱Eco-Reccomendation: Knidia Farm is an eco-friendly accommodation that originally started off simply by word of mouth. They’ve dedicated themselves to eco-friendly practices such as sourcing all vegetables from their own garden.
Montenegro
Montenegro is a country that has been slowly creeping up the list as a top tourist destination. With gorgeous beaches and amazing mountains, it’s not surprising that this should be on your travel bucket list. You’ll find the more touristy area is Kotor, however the entire coast is absolutely breathtaking.
Hotel Recommendation: One&Only Portonovi is one of the most gorgeous and highly rated hotels in the country. Located about an hour outside of Kotor, this resort has the most beautiful accommodations and views of the Adriatic sea.
Seychelles
This location is definitely in the top 5 of my bucket list destinations! Located off the coast of central East Africa, this beautiful little island should be your destination of choice in 2025. Getting there from the US may take a few flights (2 stops from both NYC and Washington DC airports) but it is worth the journey.
You’ll land on Mahe island however a trip to La Digue island is necessary so you can visit Anser Source D’Argent, the most beautiful beach in the world! If you’re like me and a big ocean lover, snorkeling/scuba diving will be immaculate! These islands are also home some of the biggest tortoises in the world that roam freely since they have no natural predators!
Hotel Recommendation: Mango House nestled on the oceanfront is another beautiful property that will ensure that you have the most beautiful and relaxing vacation imaginable. Featuring beautiful pools, a spa, and plenty of excursions this will be the perfect place for R&R. Don’t forget to book your photoshoot in the glass bottom boats!
Namibia
If you’re looking for your next safari adventure, look no further than Namibia. Located in southwestern Africa, this will be the place to go to see incredible wildlife, landscapes, and views. Namibia is also home to one of the oldest deserts in the world, which is the reason why its so red. It’s one of the few places on Earth where the desert meets the sea (Atlantic Ocean).
Hotel Recommendations: Consider living in the desert at the Zannier Hotel Sonop in one of the 10 tented luxury camps, which are constructed on top of granite boulders. The resort has a gorgeous pool, plenty of wellness activities, and opportunities to dine in the middle of nature.
Jericoacoara & Lencois Maranhenses, Brazil
Brazil should always be on your bucket list, however not just Rio de Janeiro or Sao Paolo. The cool kids are going to places like Jericoacoara for the beautiful beaches. Jeri is located outside of Forteleza and is far less traveled compared to the bigger cities in the country.
Travel further north, close to Sao Luis, is Lencois Maranhenses, which is a national park of sand dunes. Within the sand dunes are lagoons which are frequently bathed in by travelers. There are villages inside of the dunes as well, such as Atins, where you can stay overnight.
🌱Eco-Reccomendation:: La Ferme de Georges is one of these hotels in Atins with lodges nestled in the greenery of the 2 acres. Fresh Brazilian cuisine is grown at cooked right on the facilities. Enjoy kite surfing, the nearby beach, and horseback riding. There’s also opportunities to help out in the community garden, which would be a great teaching lesson for children.
🌱Eco-Reccomendation: These recommendations have been thoroughly reviewed to ensure sustainable practices are implemented at the accommodation.
If any of these accommodations seem appealing to you, consider booking through me (a travel advisor!) and ensure a seamless vacation and discounted rates. Click the image below to learn more.