In this second part of our two-part series, we turn to Singapore’s top travel experts to hear their predictions and recommendations for 2025 travel. From exciting new destinations to emerging trends, these seasoned pros are sharing their travel insights, what they’re most looking forward to, and the must-visit spots on their radar for the year ahead. Get ready for insider tips that will inspire your adventures and help you make the most of your 2025 travel plans!
“Come summer, Furano in Hokkaido is famous for its lavender flower fields”
Stephanie Chai, Chief Nomad and Founder, The Luxe Nomad
theluxenomad.com
theluxenomad
Big For 2025: The pandemic fundamentally changed how we value our freedom to escape, connect with ourselves, others, and with local cultures. The majority of Luxe Nomad bookings now come from group and multigenerational stays where people can spend time with family and friends and make long-lasting memories.
Major Trends: Wellness will be a continuing trend as people truly put health before wealth, seeking retreats or destinations that help focus on a reset of mind, body and soul. In Bali, Akashi Residence and Umalas Creek villas are hugely popular as they feature wellness amenities such ice baths, a sauna and yoga platforms. Nag Shampa Private Estate by Sam and Isabella Branson is a new property nestled in the peaceful Taro village near Ubud, Bali. Set amidst tropical jungle, organic orchards, vegetable gardens and wellness spaces, it’s totally at one with nature and not to be missed.
Destination Incoming: Over in Japan, Furano in Hokkaido is growing in popularity. It’s better known for its skiing in winter, but come summer it’s famous for its lavender flower fields and flowers which change from month to month with different arrays in bloom. It’s the real-life land of Wicked
in Asia!
Get Excited About: On one hand, it’s tech – the ability to capture a person’s preferences and data to be able to personalise travel experiences. On the other hand, it’s about retaining that authentic human touch and the ability to bring to life local culture, ambassadors, and stories that make a trip really memorable. Tourism should exist to build connections between visitors and locals, creating experiences that are mutually enriching, responsible, and support the local economy.
My Personal Escape: I hope to travel to Bhutan. It looks like the ultimate destination for a bit of soul. There’s also something magical about a destination that measures its success in Gross National Happiness!
“The Maldives continues to develop new experiences”
Peter Foreman, Marriott International, Senior Director, Sales, Marketing & Distribution – Singapore & Maldives
marriott.com
Big For 2025: This year, travel is poised for a strong rebound, with domestic and intra-regional tourism in Asia Pacific continuing to lead the way. Currently, 60% of tourism in the region is domestic or intra-regional. For example, Koh Samui has become more accessible with increased air services, offering idyllic escapes such as W Koh Samui and The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui.
Highly Recommended: The Maldives continues to captivate. While it may not be a new destination for those in Singapore, it keeps developing new experiences that keep both first-time visitors and return guests coming back. Plus, it’s a direct, four-hour flight away. January 2025 welcomed the debut of JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, bringing a contemporary perspective on luxury and wellness. March marks the highly anticipated reopening of W Maldives after an 11-month transformation, showcasing a bold new visual identity and elevated experiences.
Get Excited About: Ta’aktana, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa in Labuan Bajo in eastern Indonesia offers unparalleled access to Komodo National Park. Similarly, The Sira in Lombok celebrates local heritage alongside serene luxury. In addition, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection will launch its third yacht, Luminara, embarking on its maiden voyage from Singapore in December 2025, blending luxury cruising with immersive adventures.
My Personal Escape: I’m planning a trip back to Australia during the cooler months. After exploring Melbourne, Canberra, and Brisbane last year, I’m eager to visit Hobart and discover more of Tasmania’s natural beauty. A stay at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel recognised among The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2024, is high on my list.
“Winter wonderland destinations like Tromsø and Sweden are having a moment”
Andrea Seifert,
Travel Communications Consultant
@andreacarlottaseifert
Major Trends: The demand for “quietcations” in serene, tech-free locations, such as remote alpine lodges or silent retreats, is set to rise. Unique adventures, like glider plane flights over Namibia’s deserts and “cowboy core” experiences in Montana and Wyoming – embracing rustic frontier life – will also gain popularity.
Destination Incoming: Winter wonderland destinations like Tromsø, Norway, the Laplands in Finland, and Sweden are having a moment. From “astro-tourism” to catch the Aurora Borealis, to dog sledding and reindeer safaris, these destinations offer highly memorable holidays for both couples and families.
Get Excited About: The fact that regenerative tourism experts andBeyond are opening Suyian Lodge in Kenya’s Laikipia Plateau. With just 14 rooms, there are horseback and camel safaris to spot the elusive rhino and leopards, visits to local villages and cattle ranches, riverside picnics, yoga, and more.
My Personal Escape: I hope to explore Tasmania to hike and experience not only its natural beauty and fantastic food scene, but also the Dark Mofo festival, an immersive blend of art and culture. I’m also looking for a mid-year wellness boost at a retreat like Aro-Ha in New Zealand, or a meditation course at SOMA in Byron Bay.
“As witnessed by the ‘Swift Lift’ last year, people are travelling for live events”
Gaynor Reid, CEO, Catalyst Communications
catalystcomms.sg
Big For 2025: People are increasingly travelling for live events and concerts, as witnessed by the “Swift Lift” last year when Taylor Swift went on tour. There will also be a rise in “set-jetting” where people travel to destinations they’ve seen in movies or on TV screens. The TV show, The White Lotus, will make Thailand super-popular this year, for example. (See p68!)
Destination Incoming: Oman is a vastly underrated destination that offers incredible culture, landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage sites, great food, and amazing accommodations. While its neighbouring countries are all about the bling, Oman is about authenticity, adventure, and nature. Everyone should have it on their list for 2025.
Get Excited About: The relaunch of the Sofitel New York following a major renovation. It’s a hotel I’ve stayed in several times and the location is unbeatable. This makeover will blend Parisian style with New York’s urban spirit, drawing inspiration from its Art Deco roots. The launch of the Orient Express La Dolce Vita is another exciting new experience for 2025, allowing passengers to enjoy luxurious train travel between Italy’s most beautiful destinations including Rome, Venice, Florence, and more.
My Personal Escape: Last year, my family holidayed with a group of friends at Villa Capanne in Perugia, Italy. I’ve never felt more relaxed in my life – just lolling about the gardens, playing golf, visiting the castle, swimming in the pool at the end of the day, and watching the sunset over the Antognolla Valley. We’re planning to return this year to see what it’s like in the cooler months when we can all gather around the fireplace.
