Ben Waters, trader, is an experience portfolio manager and Delta One, option and equity trader. In his free time, Benjamin Waters, trader, enjoys a range of different hobbies and pastimes, chief among them travelling the world and visiting new locations. This article will provide an overview of travel destinations tipped to feature prominently in 2025 and beyond.
Japan
Few countries on Earth are as diverse as Japan. From its picture-perfect island beaches to the snow-capped Mount Fuji, Japan features prominently on the bucket list of many seasoned travellers. One of the last countries to reopen following the pandemic, Japan took a while to get up and running again in the travel world. Nevertheless, boasting historic destinations like Osaka, Tokyo and Hiroshima, the country once more ranks as one of the most popular destinations in the whole of Asia.
Built on the stunning waters of Ine Bay, Ine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has been described as Japan’s most beautiful village. Comprising over 200 boathouses known locally as ‘funayas’, this astounding location is surrounded by calm waters and uninhabited islands, presenting an unforgettable idyllic retreat where visitors can experience an imitable flavour of authentic local life.
Italy
Since the days of the Grand Tour, Italy has been a firm travel favourite among travellers thanks to its rich history, stunning architectural treasures and internationally revered cuisine. For those keen to beat the crowds, the magic of the Dolomite Mountains offers a unique, off-the-beaten-track flavour of the country, and this rugged mountain range is synonymous with family fun and luxury.
With the stunning sawtooth limestone cliffs as a backdrop, sprawling from the region of Veneto all the way to Friuli-Venezia Guilia, the Dolomites is particularly popular with domestic travellers during the wintertime, with visitors arriving from near and far to enjoy the peerless ‘white week’ skiing, quaint villages and delicious Alpine cuisine. Although the Dolomites has traditionally been somewhat overlooked by international travellers, industry insiders predict that this could be about to change as increasing numbers of holidaymakers experience the delights of this up-and-coming European travel destination.
Portugal
A summer spent in Europe is like no other, and Portugal in particular has soared in popularity in recent years. From its orange-hued cliffs and stunning beaches to its cosmopolitan cities, Portugal boasts some amazing sights, including magnificent architecture and ancient landmarks, as well as a thriving food scene. With Spain just next door, holidaymakers can experience the best of both worlds with a multi-destination trip.
In northern Portugal, Porto is the perfect destination for a city break, dazzling visitors with its amazing views, stunning architecture and rich history, not to mention the fine port wine it is so famous for. Home to some astounding viewpoints, chief among them the Dom Luis I Bridge, Porto is easily walkable, featuring some of Portugal’s finest restaurants and night spots.
Tanzania
Tanzania is a paradise for nature lovers, with the East African country boasting some of the world’s finest safari destinations. While iconic national parks like the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti command the lion’s share of tourist interest, some of the country’s southern parks have garnered increasing exposure in recent years, and deservedly so.
Located in the southern part of the country, Ruaha National Park and the Selous Game Reserve present the opportunity for a more exclusive game-viewing experience. Lacking the crowds attracted by the northern parks, both reserves offer fantastic wildlife-viewing opportunities, with the majestic Rufiji River providing a vital lifeline for resident and migratory species that frequent the region.
When it comes to once-in-a-lifetime safari experiences, few could beat Ruaha National Park. Covering more than 20,000 square kilometres and offering incredible wildlife density, Ruaha is one of Tanzania’s best-kept secrets.