There’s nothing quite like starting a new year by dreaming up all the adventures to come. After the ups and downs of 2024, I’m ready to hit reset and make 2025 all about exploring new places, trying new things, and creating some unforgettable memories with friends and family.
For 2025, I’ve created a bucket list packed with experiences that will spark your curiosity, inspire you to step outside your comfort zone, and allow you to “choose your own adventure.”
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first big trip, these bucket list ideas are designed to get you packing your bags. Here’s my travel bucket list for 2025!
Take a Solo Trip
Going on a solo trip is a rite of passage.
It’s an experience that’s as much about personal growth as it is about the destination.
My first solo trip taught me so much about myself and gave me a new appreciation for the world.
The best part is that it allows you to do things entirely on your own terms. Want to sleep in? Go for it. Spend hours wandering a museum? No one’s rushing you. Dance the night away with locals? Why not!
If the idea of traveling alone feels intimidating, start small! Book a weekend getaway nearby, try dining solo, or take a day trip to a place you’ve always wanted to visit. Once you get a taste for it, you’ll be hooked on the independence and spontaneity of solo travel.
Visit a New Continent
There’s something so thrilling about stepping onto a continent you’ve never visited before.
Having lived in South Africa, Africa should without a doubt be at the top of your list, with its jaw-dropping safaris and landscapes that look like they’re straight out of a David Attenborough documentary.
If you’re not looking to travel too far from the States, South America has so much to offer, with the biggest draws to the continent including the beaches of Rio, the Galápagos Islands, Iguazu Falls, Machu Picchu, and, of course, Patagonia.
And let’s not forget about the land down under—where you can snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, cuddle a koala, and explore the vast Great Outback.
Spend a Summer in Europe
A summer in Europe just hits different.
You’ll be soaking in the sunshine, sipping Aperol spritzes, wandering cobblestone streets, dancing the night away and enjoying food that makes your heart skip a beat.
While it’s impossible to narrow down the “best” destinations to visit in Europe during the summer, here’s a little sneak peek at a few places you definitely won’t want to miss:
- Mallorca, Spain: You’ll find some of the most stunning beaches and cutest towns in this part of Spain. Toss in some tapas and sangria, and it’s no surprise it’s a top pick!
- Greek Islands: Think white-washed buildings, turquoise seas, and plenty of Mykonos beach clubs. Pure paradise.
- Amalfi Coast, Italy: Cliffside villages, endless pasta, and brilliant blue water. Can’t get more dreamy than this.
- Provence, France: Picture vibrant lavender fields, wine, and quaint little villages—oh, and the sunsets are out of this world!
Summer is also festival season in Europe, so be sure to check out local events wherever you go!
Visit a Futuristic City
Ever wondered what it feels like to step into the future?
Cities like Dubai, Tokyo, and Singapore are where innovation meets culture.
Tokyo is a sensory overload in the best way possible, with its neon-lit streets and cutting-edge fashion. Dubai feels like it’s been plucked from a sci-fi movie with its gravity-defying skyscrapers. And Singapore? It’s a green oasis where urban living and sustainability coexist beautifully.
Go Leaf Peeping
There’s something magical about traveling in the fall—the crisp air, cozy sweaters, and those fiery leaves.
I recently went on an epic New England road trip with Ollie and my mom, where we sipped apple cider, picked apples, and explored hiking trails. It was AMAZING.
While New England is iconic, don’t overlook Japan’s autumn season. Kyoto’s temples, surrounded by vibrant leaves, are absolutely breathtaking.
Chase the Northern Lights
The northern lights are one of those bucket-list experiences that feel almost otherworldly.
Imagine bundling up under a blanket of stars, watching green (and purple if you’re lucky!) lights paint the sky.
Norway, Iceland, and Canada are some of the best spots to catch the aurora borealis, so make sure to add one of these destinations to your 2025 plans.
Just make sure to check when the best time to visit is!
Hike an Iconic Trail
Machu Picchu. Need I say more?
Hiking to this ancient Incan city is one of those challenges that is 100% worth it. The views along the way are unreal, and when you finally reach the top, it’s INCREDIBLE!
Not feeling the Inca Trail? No worries—there are plenty of other iconic hikes, including:
- Banff National Park, Canada: Think crystal-clear turquoise lakes, snow-capped peaks, and forests straight out of a fairytale.
- Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania: Ready to conquer Africa’s highest peak? The trek to the top is challenging, but the reward? A view you’ll never forget.
- Path of the Gods, Amalfi Coast, Italy: The views of the Mediterranean, stunning coastal villages, and cliffs that drop straight into the sea—this hike is everything.
- Torres del Paine Circuit, Chile: If you want glaciers, rivers, and towering peaks, this circuit is your ultimate adventure.
