Tropical beachfront villa with thatched roofs, a long pool, and vibrant flowers. Sun loungers are placed around the pool, overlooking the ocean under a partly cloudy sky. Lush greenery surrounds the serene setting.

Travel

2025 luxury travel trends

Slow travel, Southeast Asia, and South Korea – these are the destinations and properties set to be hot this year, chosen by Quintessentially Travel.

Words by Georgie Young

31st December 2024

5-minute read

Everybody likes being ahead of the curve. Especially when it comes to booking holidays. There’s just something immensely satisfying about being the friend whose feed is filled with snaps from their latest under-the-radar adventure – or the dinner party guest who says, ‘already been there, would you like some recommendations?’ when someone brings up a new place they want to explore.

But nobody knows what’s about to be trending quite like Quintessentially Travel’s MD, Sam Mullen. So, we asked Sam to fill us in on what’s about to be hot in the world of luxury travel. Here’s her advice, and here’s the Quintessentially Travel website if any of the below tickle your fancy.

Botswana is back and better than ever

‘We're excited about Botswana in 2025, particularly the trailblazing property Atzaro Okavangó, which opened in early 2024. Botswana offers an unparalleled safari experience with a strong focus on conservation. And when coupled with the region’s high biodiversity level, especially in the Okavango Delta, it also makes for a unique adventure. To stay, Atzaro Okavangó perfectly combines luxury with an authentic experience, featuring 12 suites of the highest standard with meticulous attention to detail in their design.’

Aerial view of a safari lodge with thatched roofs surrounded by lush greenery and a calm lagoon. Open plains stretch into the distance under a pink and orange sunset sky. A circular outdoor seating area is visible.

Aerial view of a safari lodge surrounded by lush greenery and a waterhole. Thatched-roof buildings are nestled among trees. The horizon shows a colorful sunset with a rising moon. Open plains stretch into the distance.

Luxury cruising will reach new heights.

‘Leaving behind decades-long stereotypes and embracing a new era of luxury cruises, companies like Explora Journeys are redefining the experience by offering mid-size ships designed to the highest Italian standards, sailing between 5–25 nights around the Caribbean, Mediterranean, northern Europe, and more. Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons have also launched their own luxury yacht collections: small and perfectly formed cruises with 90–150 cabins, offering an intimate and tailored voyage for each guest.’

A luxurious yacht deck featuring a swimming pool surrounded by lounge chairs and a shaded area. The deck also includes a bar and dining space. The yacht is cruising on calm blue waters with a flag at the stern.

A luxurious yacht with a spacious deck featuring a pool, lounge chairs, and a shaded seating area. The yacht is cruising in calm blue waters, with a flag at the rear.

Hotspots? It’s all about the not-so-hotspots now

‘We’re seeing more and more luxury travellers trading popular destinations for lesser-visited alternatives – like China. Don’t miss Six Senses Qing Cheng Mountain for an unforgettable getaway. Or, perhaps focus on a new capital city and visit the culturally rich Seoul in South Korea, where our top pick is Hotel28 Myeongdong. Instead of the usual European summer destinations, think about places like Scandinavia for a unique experience – be sure to stay at the charming Hotel Union Øye on the Norwegian fjords.’

A scenic view of a river winding through lush greenery, with a traditional-style building on the left bank. Majestic mountains rise in the background under a clear blue sky, creating a serene and picturesque landscape.

A picturesque winter scene with a large, red wooden house surrounded by snow-covered trees and buildings. In the background, a vast mountain rises, blanketed in snow under a cloudy sky.

Southeast Asia will make a comeback

‘This part of the world has been a bit slow to rebound post-pandemic compared to others. However, I’m confident 2025 will be the year it makes a comeback! We can't overlook the impact of White Lotus which will significantly drive demand in Thailand, especially with the third instalment filmed at the Four Seasons in Koh Samui. Indonesia, Singapore, Vietnam, and Cambodia also offer stunning properties and inspiring cultural experiences – I am particularly captivated by the fabulous Nihi Sumba in Bawah, Indonesia, and you can't beat Angkor Wat in Cambodia.’

A stunning coastal view of a turquoise ocean with white sandy beaches. In the foreground, a tropical villa with a thatched roof overlooks a pool surrounded by vibrant flowers and lush greenery.

A stunning coastal view features a thatched-roof villa with a swimming pool surrounded by lush greenery and colorful flowers. Beyond, a pristine white sand beach meets turquoise waters, with a backdrop of hills under a clear blue sky.

Luxury train journeys are back on track

‘I anticipate that slow train travel will grow even more popular in 2025, as new European routes come into focus – especially as sustainable travel options continue to trend. Belmond recently introduced the highly anticipated Britannic Explorer, a luxury overnight sleeper train that travels from London to Cornwall, Wales, and the Lake District. The Orient Express La Dolce Vita will offer journeys through the idyllic Italian countryside, and there will soon be a sleeper train that operates overnight from Amsterdam to Barcelona.’

Luxurious train interior with a cozy seating area featuring a brown sofa and decorative pillows. A stylish bar with a selection of bottles and martini glasses is in the background. The decor is elegant, with a large window showcasing scenic views.

A long, blue train winds through a lush green landscape under a clear sky. The sun casts a warm glow over the scene, highlighting the serene countryside and the train’s reflective windows as it curves along the tracks.

Relaxing and recharging will be top priority for today’s traveller

‘It's been a busy few years for bucket list travel and multi-destination and multi-experience trips. And whilst we’ll always see demand for these, we’re expecting to see more interest in holidays purely for relaxation in 2025. Consider JOALI BEING in the Maldives for a week of unwinding, and recharging, with world-class facilities, unique experiences, and wellbeing experts on tap. Other great destinations include the Swiss lakes in summer, the Scandinavian fjords, and the simplicity of a beautiful remote tropical island.’

Two massage tables are set in a luxurious spa room with a glass floor overlooking a turquoise ocean view. Two therapists stand holding trays beside the tables. The ambiance is serene and relaxing, with soft lighting and wooden decor.

Two people receive spa treatments on massage tables in a luxurious room with glass floors. Two spa attendants stand beside them. A large window provides a view of the ocean, creating a serene atmosphere. A small table holds spa essentials.

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