From chasing an eclipse and relaxing by a thermal spring to exploring lesser-known destinations, here are some of the travel experiences that holidaymakers will be indulging in 2025

It might feel a touch early to start planning holidays so early in the new year, but is there anything more motivating than the promise of indulgent getaways to look forward to in 2025? And if so, what extraordinary adventures should discerning travellers like yourself keep an eye on?

If you had spoken to any hotelier or travel operator in 2024, you would have heard a recurring theme: luxury travellers are no longer satisfied with superficial indulgences. While the allure of immaculate five-star resorts accompanied by white-gloved service still holds sway, industry practitioners note a shift in preferences among a new generation of travellers who appear to be seeking something more.

“Luxury travel is fast evolving,” says Mike Harlow, general manager of Scott Dunn Asia. “Global issues like climate change and over-tourism are pushing travellers to explore destinations differently.”

At the forefront of this change is a renewed focus on slower, intentional travel. Post-pandemic, the notion of slow travel has gradually gained traction. Perhaps it’s unsurprising. The cocktail of an existential crisis and an increasingly connected world has made many see the value in slowing down and savouring the moment.

In its Luxury Travel Trend Report, Scott Dunn observes an increase in travellers choosing exotic, lesser-known destinations, in search of once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Countries such as Tanzania, Peru and Finland have seen substantial increases in bookings—accruing growths of 40 per cent, 77 per cent and 53 per cent, respectively. As for specific activities, the luxury travel operator believes the emerging trend of eclipse chasing will be one to watch.

“Eclipse chasing is becoming a thrilling way to experience some of Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes,” says Geraleine Yap, Scott Dunn’s Europe travel specialist. “We’re seeing more adventurous travellers drawn to remote regions, with Greenland’s High Arctic, in particular, expected to be a prime destination.”

For those less inclined towards slow, exotic adventures, the burgeoning focus on self-care and well-being might prove more appealing. Projected to reach a value of US$1.4 trillion by 2027, according to an estimation by the Global Wellness Institute, wellness tourism is certainly catching on. With hotels, like Siro in Dubai, offering a suite of tailor-made wellness programmes that include nutrition, personalised regimens and cryotherapy, we’re expecting more properties to follow suit and augment their services.

Beyond hotels, wellness-focused destinations are also set to make waves. Thermal springs, for example—highlighted in a 42-page report by the global travel practice, Finn Partners—are emerging as mainstay attractions in wellness travel, offering travellers natural, therapeutic experiences that relax and rejuvenate. Though imagining yourself immersed in a tranquil Japanese onsen—or chasing eclipses across Arctic skies—may feel premature, one thing is certain: 2025 promises to be another remarkable year for travel.

This story first appeared in the January 2025 issue. Purchase it as a print or digital copy, or consider subscribing to us here