Inevitably, I’ve already started dreaming about the travel destinations I hope to see next year. I know, 2025 is still 4 months away—a whole quarter of the year!
I tend to approach travel planning like I do my job in tech, always planning one quarter ahead.
Some of these destinations are popular spots that I’ve been dreaming about for a while. Others are near and dear to my heart, with plans either to travel with or meet family and friends who make me the person I am. Either way, every one of these travel destinations offers something special I’m excited to explore.
My top 5 travel destinations in 2025:
Norway
I grew up hearing stories about my Norwegian ancestral roots from my grandmother. Although my Norwegian blood is quite diluted at this point, I have fond memories of her promoting and encouraging her Christmas lefse at family gatherings—a Norwegian specialty consisting of a flatbread made with mashed potatoes, cream, flour, and sugar. What draws me to Norway, specifically in 2025, is the northern lights. Experts have reported that the northern lights will be the strongest from November 2024 to March 2026 due to heightened solar activity as we approach the “solar maximum” in the current solar cycle. The cherry on top: one of the most beautiful train rides, the Bergen Line, runs through Norway, from Oslo to Bergen. I’m especially looking forward to this in the winter where the mountains are topped with snow—resembling a true winter wonderland.
Sardinia, Italy
Everyone loves a beach vacation, and the Mediterranean hosts some of the most incredible beaches in the world. Sardinia, in particular, is renowned for its crystal-clear blue waters and fine sands. It’s a small island off the coast of Italy and is quickly becoming a popular vacation spot among Europeans and Americans alike. I’m curious to see how the beaches in Sardinia rival those I’ve visited in the Greek islands. Beyond its stunning beaches, Sardinia also offers a rich cultural experience with its unique blend of Italian and local traditions, historic sites like the Nuragic complexes, and a rugged interior landscape perfect for hiking and exploring. The local cuisine, heavily influenced by seafood, herbs, and artisan cheeses, is already captivating my taste buds.
Hudson Valley, NY
The magical Hudson Valley stretches along the Hudson River from Westchester County to Albany. Along the river, you’ll find charming towns like Nyack and Cold Spring. Given Simon and I will be moving to New Jersey in August next year, we’ll arrive just in time to see the fall foliage that will grace the Hudson. I’m especially looking forward to visiting Bannerman Castle and hiking along the trails on Storm King Mountain.
San Francisco / Northern California
I posed one of my favorite questions to my mom: ‘What travel destination are you excited to visit one day?’ To my surprise, her response was San Francisco! Planning a mother/daughter trip to visit the Bay Area would be the highlight of her year, and it’s a destination I’ve never visited either. San Francisco has some of the top tourist attractions: the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman’s Wharf. I could envision us renting a car and driving up the 101 to Monterey. I’ve been inspired to visit this city since I watched Big Little Lies on HBO. Going at the right time of year, we’ll also be able to admire the sea lions resting along the shore.
Bavaria, Germany
Given that next September marks Simon’s mother’s 60th birthday, we’ll plan a trip to celebrate her day. This also makes it the perfect timing to go to Oktoberfest, which runs from the 20th of September to October 5th. We’ve been to Oktoberfest in Fredericksburg, Texas—which was great, but just not the same. We’re looking forward to seeing the real deal—the traditional beer tents, the grand parade, and the authentic Bavarian music. Now, all I have to do is brush up on my German—or at least enough to confidently order a beer and a pretzel!
Each location promises a blend of discovery, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences with loved ones. Here’s to a year of exploring new cultures, tasting new foods, and making memories that will last a lifetime.
