VILLAS WITH EXTRAS 

The trend for multi-gen getaways just keeps getting bigger. Travellers are putting family first in a big way, however it’s not only grandparents joining the fun, close friends are being added to the mix too and consequently large villas are in high demand. Ed Pike, MD for Simpson Travel says, “The demand for properties that work for multi-generational groups and special get togethers continues to grow and this year our villas are reaching new standards of luxury in terms of facilities.” So how luxurious and personalised are we talking? Pike lists requests for the usual private pools and outdoor kitchens, but also private basketball courts, high tech gyms and even somewhere to moor a boat. 

DO IT! As far as luxury villas go, four-bedroom Villa Alessia on Lefkada in Greece is spot on – think tennis court, pool and Jacuzzi, plus amazing added extras including a herb garden and section of a private vineyard. Cheers. Seven nights from £683pp including flights and car hire, based on eight sharing. 

COOL-CATIONS 

Summer 2024 was awash with news stories about record-breaking temperatures in some of Europe’s most popular holiday destinations. Naturally the cool crowd didn’t break sweat and opted for more temperate climes instead, such as Alpine peaks, Scandinavian islands and Icelandic boltholes. Not only are they a sensible option, but these chilled destinations often come with the added bonus of less crowds and cheaper flights.

DO IT! If you want to discover the highlights of Iceland in one easy to navigate trip, Regent Holidays has a dreamy ten-day Iceland On The Road Summer Break for 2025, featuring the famous Gulifoss Waterfall, Skaftafell National Park and its volcanic peaks, puffins at Dyrhólaey Cape and a boat tour of Papey Island.
From £1715pp including return flights, nine nights accommodation, car hire, some meals and 24-hour emergency car support.

WATER WORLDS

Holidays based around water have always been fashionable. Blue space makes everyone feel better (it’s scientifically proven!) which is why beach getaways are a winner. However escapes featuring lakes, canals and rivers are also on the up and neatly tap into another key travel trend for 2025 – the desire to explore lesser-known, under-touristed destinations. 

DO IT! To celebrate its 40th anniversary Headwater Active Holidays is reintroducing the first trip it ever offered: Canoeing on the Loire, which is perfect for couples or families (adventurers must be aged 8+ though), looking to reconnect and getting active. You’ll get to glide along the tranquil waters of France’s Loire Valley, passing historic villages, rollings vineyards and fairytale chateaux, with plenty of opportunities to come ashore and make the most of the French cuisine and chic boutique hotels. Five nights from £1179pp including equipment and hotels. 

DEEPER CONNECTIONS 

Creating deeper connections (with each other, the wider community and nature) while travelling is the aim of an increasing number of travellers. A swimming pool and all you can eat buffet goes a long way, admittedly, but there comes a time when you long for more depth on your hols, particularly if you’re travelling with tweens and teens. But where to get those live in the moment, fully immersed kicks? Tour operator Fleewinter’s Madagascar expert Robin Swanepoel took his own son on a tour of the spectacular, nature-filled Indian Ocean island recently and said it was, “some of the best time we’ve ever had together,” which is quite the recommendation. 

DO IT! From lemurs and chameleons to pristine beaches and lush rainforests, appreciating Madagascar’s natural beauty will unite the whole family. Fleewinter’s new Madagascar Family Holiday begins in the bustling capital of Antananarivo, before taking in the tranquility and natural wonders of Anjajavy le Lodge on the north west coast, home to towering baobabs and ring-tailed lemurs. And the longed-for deeper cultural connection? You’ll also get to spend time with the local Sakalava people in neighbouring villages. From £5570 per adult and £2250 per child, including return flights and accommodation. 

BLAZING SADDLES

Horse-riding holidays are hot. What started as a fun break for pony-obsessed kids has developed into a full-blown tourism trend for adults, from ranching to equestrian therapy. Before you stop reading, hear me out, because a horse-riding break doesn’t have to mean camping and a sore bum, there are plenty of luxe places to get in the saddle plus there’s something to appeal to all ages and genders, whether that’s playing cowboys in the wild west or trotting across the Brecon Beacons. 

DO IT! The best place in the world for an equestrian escape is NIHI Sumba in Indonesia. From horse yoga (yes, really), to swimming with ponies, trail riding, swimming with horses and even equine retreats ($6,600 per couple) where you learn ‘the healing power of horses’, there’s no better spot to trot than this luxurious private island. North American Travel Service also has some hot riding holidays, including excellent ranch options, such as Kay El Bar Guest Ranch in Arizona, where equestrian-based experiences are the main allure with twice-daily rides included. For non-riders there’s loads to do too, including cowboy cookouts, archery, star-gazing and hiking. Five nights from £2922, including meals, accommodation and all activities but excluding flights.

MOVIE MOTIVATION

More than ever before we are picking travel spots featured in our favourite films and TV shows. Entire industries have been built around famous locations, such as The Lord of the Rings tours in New Zealand, and today set-jetting is a major tourism driver. So where’s going to be big in 2025? Emily in Paris continues to be a major boost to the Parisian tourism industry, The White Lotus 3 is going to put Thailand front and centre when it’s released in Feb, Paul Mescal starring in Gladiator 2 is predicted to boost trips to Malta where much of it was filmed, while smash hit Paddington in Peru has seen interest in the South American country soar. 

DO IT! Much of The White Lotus 3 was filmed at the Four Seasons on Koh Samui in Thailand, if you want to follow suit read all about it here. If you’d rather follow in the footsteps of everyone’s favourite Peruvian bear, book The Best of Magical Peru & The Amazon with Affordable Luxury Travel. This bucket-list break takes in Lima, Arequipa, the jaw-dropping Colca Canyon where condors soar overhead, Lake Titicaca, Cusco City, the Scared Valley, Machu Picchu and a cruise down the might Amazon River. From £3449pp including flights, transfers and accommodation.