January 5th 2025.
If you are in need of some sunshine at the end of the year, the Azores is the place to go. As with any vacation, timing is key. Just because a certain destination is popular during a specific month, doesn't necessarily mean it's the best time to visit. For instance, southern Europe is plagued with extreme heat during the summer months, while Lapland is swarmed by tourists in the winter.
However, there are ways to avoid the crowds and save money. Exploring off-the-beaten-track spots or finding similar destinations, traveling during shoulder seasons, and opting for cooler climates can make for a more enjoyable and cost-effective trip. But beware, without proper research, you may find yourself facing monsoons, heatwaves, or closed attractions - a traveler's worst nightmare.
But fear not, Metro has created a useful travel calendar with the best destinations to visit each month, taking into account weather, seasons, and local events that cannot be missed. So if you made a New Year's resolution to travel more, check out these recommendations for 2025.
In January, Thailand is the place to be. With its vibrant streetlife and beautiful beaches, it's the perfect escape after a chilly Christmas in the UK. The temperatures hover around 30°C and it's one of the driest months, making it the ideal time to avoid monsoon season. Thailand's cities are full of life, with bustling markets, legendary nightlife, and famous temples and palaces. And for those seeking a beach getaway, the southern islands offer crystal clear waters and soft sandy beaches, making it a popular alternative to the Maldives.
For those looking for a tropical paradise, St Lucia in February is the answer. With average temperatures of 27°C and the driest month of the year, it's the perfect time to explore the lush rainforests without the humidity of later months. The south of the island is home to the iconic Pitons, two volcanic peaks and a UNESCO World Heritage site, while the north offers a bustling and modern atmosphere with vibrant nightlife and a lively music scene. With its small size, St Lucia has something for every traveler, from relaxing getaways to romantic escapes.
If you're a fan of skiing, why not avoid the crowds and head to Niseko, Japan in March? Known for its powdery snow and reliable ski season, it offers 70 runs, off-piste terrain, and beautiful Japanese woodland to explore against the backdrop of the majestic Yoti mountain. And don't worry if you're a beginner, there are plenty of opportunities to learn or try other activities like snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and sampling delicious local cuisine.
In April, North Macedonia is an up-and-coming destination worth checking out. With glittering lakes, national parks, ancient churches, and vibrant bazaars, it's no wonder it's gaining popularity. And with recent research showing it as one of the fastest-growing travel hotspots, be sure to visit before it becomes too crowded. Plus, it's surprisingly affordable, with holiday rentals starting at £25 per night in the capital. Don't miss out on Lake Ohrid, a hidden gem with crystal blue waters and plenty of opportunities for swimming, boating, and kayaking.
For a less crowded escape, consider traveling to the Turkish Riviera in May. Known as "the turquoise coast," it's an off-season paradise with temperatures around 20°C, perfect for exploring the Old Town, hiking through canyons, and taking a dip in the sea. Families will love Antalya, with its resorts and water parks, while those seeking a less-traveled destination can head to Fetiyeh, just three hours southwest, for the same turquoise waters and ancient rock tombs.
Unfortunately, there are some destinations to avoid in 2025. Some places don't want tourists, while others are struggling with overtourism. To protect these areas and keep the locals happy, here are a few destinations we don't recommend visiting in 2025:
Barcelona, Spain has seen a rise in frustration from locals due to overtourism. Short-term rental apartments are being limited and protests have even resulted in tourists being squirted with water. Mallorca, also in Spain, has a similar issue and has even seen locals block a popular tourist beach. The country's new travel rules require extensive personal information from guests. Rome, Italy is expected to be exceptionally busy in 2025 due to the Holy Year of Jubilee, with over 35 million visitors expected. The Greek islands of Santorini and Mykonos have also implemented a visitor tax to combat overtourism, with an estimated 800 cruise ships visiting Santorini alone last year. Rovaniemi, in Finnish Lapland, has seen a surge in tourism to the "official home of Santa Claus," which has caused prices to increase and long-term residents to leave. The Canary Islands are also struggling with overtourism, with locals staging protests over the lack of affordable housing and environmental issues.
In June, consider visiting Cádiz, Spain for a more off-the-beaten-path experience. With its beautiful beaches, rich history, and delicious cuisine, it's the perfect spot for a summer vacation without the overwhelming crowds. So, whether you're looking for winter sun, a tropical paradise, a skiing getaway, or a less-crowded escape, there are plenty of options to choose from throughout the year. Just remember to do your research beforehand and be mindful of overtourism in certain areas. Happy travels!
When it comes to planning the perfect vacation, timing is key. It's important to keep in mind that just because a destination may be popular during a certain time of year, it might not be the best time to visit. For example, southern Europe can be uncomfortably hot in the summer, while Lapland is packed with tourists in the winter.
Luckily, there are ways to avoid the crowds and save some money. Exploring lesser-known spots, traveling during off-peak seasons, and choosing destinations with cooler climates are all great options for a more peaceful and budget-friendly trip. However, it's important to do some research beforehand to avoid any potential travel nightmares, such as monsoons, extreme heat waves, or closed attractions.
To make things easier, Metro has put together a travel calendar with recommendations for the best destinations to visit each month, taking into account weather, seasons, and local events. So if your New Year's resolution was to travel more, make sure to check out these suggestions for 2025.
January is the perfect month to escape the cold and head to Thailand for some much-needed sunshine. With temperatures around 30°C and minimal rainfall, it's a great time to explore the vibrant cities, bustling markets, and famous temples. And for those looking for a beach getaway, the crystal-clear waters and soft sands of the island beaches won't disappoint. In fact, Thailand is often considered a great alternative to the Maldives.
In February, St Lucia is the place to be. With average temperatures of 27°C and little rain, it's the perfect time to enjoy the tropical beaches and delicious local cuisine. The island offers a variety of experiences, from relaxing getaways to romantic escapes. Whether you prefer the serene beauty of the Pitons or the vibrant nightlife of the north, St Lucia has something for everyone.
For a unique and unforgettable ski experience, consider saving your trip for March and heading to Niseko, Japan. This ski resort is known for its powdery snow and reliable ski season, with 70 runs to choose from and stunning views of the Yoti mountain. And don't worry if you're a beginner, there are plenty of opportunities to learn or try out other activities such as snowmobiling and snowshoeing.
In April, why not visit the up-and-coming destination of North Macedonia? This European gem offers a mix of natural beauty, ancient churches, and bustling bazaars. And with it being one of the fastest-growing travel hotspots, it's best to visit sooner rather than later. Plus, it's remarkably affordable, with holiday rentals starting at just £25 per night. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Lake Ohrid, a hidden paradise with crystal blue waters and plenty of activities to enjoy.
May is a great time to visit the Turkish Riviera. With temperatures around 20°C, it's the perfect weather for exploring the Old Town or hiking through the canyons, while still being warm enough for a dip in the sea. And for a less crowded experience, consider heading to Fetiyeh, just three hours southwest of Antalya, for a more tranquil and authentic Turkish experience.
As much as we love to travel, it's important to be conscious of the impact of tourism on certain destinations. To protect these areas and keep the locals happy, it may be best to avoid some popular destinations in 2025. For example, Barcelona and Mallorca in Spain, Rome in Italy, and the Greek islands of Santorini and Mykonos are all struggling with overtourism. And in Finnish Lapland, the surge of tourists to the "official home of Santa Claus" has caused issues such as rising prices and pushing out long-term residents. The Canary Islands have also seen anti-tourism protests due to concerns about affordable housing and environmental problems.
In June, consider visiting Cádiz, Spain, a beautiful coastal city with a rich history and charming atmosphere. With its mild temperatures and fewer crowds, it's the perfect time to explore the city's narrow streets, lively markets, and stunning beaches.
So there you have it, a travel guide for 2025 that takes into account weather, seasons, and social responsibility. Whether you're looking for a winter sun escape, a ski adventure, or a summer beach holiday, there's a destination for everyone. Just remember to do your research and be mindful of the impact of tourism on certain areas. Happy travels!
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