This past year was all about exploring different parts of the world, beginning in South America and moving through Central America, the Caribbean, Europe, and the Middle East. But when it comes to 2025, there are just five places I would want to revisit.

These spots include a less-traveled tropical island and a serene university town by the Baltic Sea. You wouldn’t have convinced me last year that I’d want to return to these locations!

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I write a widely circulated column about travel, and my approach is more than just a brief visit. I make an effort to immerse myself in these places, build connections with locals, and explore my surroundings, including grocery stores and urban areas.

Here are the five places you shouldn’t overlook in 2025, along with a key experience you must have while you’re there.

Berlin

Berlin has transformed dramatically from the Cold War city I first encountered in the 1970s, or the construction zone I saw post-reunification in the 1990s. What’s fascinating about Berlin is its ongoing evolution and future-focused mindset. During my summer stay in a Blueground apartment in Charlottenburg, I discovered Berlin as a vibrant and inviting place.

Berlin is among the most pedestrian-friendly cities in Europe, with spacious sidewalks that create a safe walking environment, even alongside cyclists and vehicles (which is no small feat, as anyone who’s visited Croatia can attest). This city boasts remarkable diversity and is home to some of Europe’s finest shopping and dining options. Moreover, it lacks the tourist crowds typical of other major European capitals, providing a more genuine experience.

▶ Don’t miss: The Futurium, a complimentary museum located near the Bundestag that invites visitors to explore future possibilities with its interactive exhibits. Just like Berlin itself.

Dublin

Dublin, being a popular spot for many Americans, draws visitors from all over. I spent two months living in the capital, right over one of Temple Bar’s iconic pubs, and learned that the right timing is essential. If you go in late summer when tourist crowds lessen, you can have a more intimate Irish experience—think peaceful strolls along the River Liffey to Phoenix Park, without the hustle of tourists waiting for the bus.

Like many other European capitals, Dublin is steeped in culture. It features free museums such as the expansive National Museum of Ireland, just across from the popular Guinness Storehouse. Plus, there’s great shopping on Grafton Street and a lively dining and theater scene in the Docklands. However, what truly made Dublin special for me were the people. Despite the almost constant rain, the locals I encountered were warm and seemed genuinely pleased to meet me.

▶ Don’t miss: The National Gallery of Ireland, free to enter, boasts an impressive collection of Irish and Renaissance artwork—a perfect refuge from the rain.

Grenada

During my nine-week journey in the Caribbean, where I explored sustainability and tourism, I quickly realized I wasn’t the typical tourist. Lounging on the beach all day isn’t my style, and I prefer to avoid all-inclusive resorts, cruises, and timeshares.

Then I arrived in Grenada, often referred to as the Spice Island. While this island does offer beautiful beaches, it also features amazing scuba diving opportunities in a unique underwater sculpture park and endless hiking trails in Grand Étang National Park – not to mention delicious chocolate. However, what truly makes Grenada worth visiting isn’t just these attractions; it’s the wonderful locals. The authentic hospitality and warmth found here are unmatched compared to other Caribbean destinations.

▶ Must-see: Don’t miss Belmont Estate to experience how cocoa beans are grown and transformed into chocolate.

Lucerne, Switzerland

What does Lucerne offer? A stunning lake? Absolutely. Breathtaking Alps? You bet. Charming medieval buildings? Without a doubt. While other Swiss cities also boast these features, Lucerne stands out for its welcoming atmosphere. The locals here appear genuinely enthusiastic to share their beautiful city with visitors, contrasting sharply with the aloofness often found in Zürich or Geneva.

Lucerne isn’t the cheapest destination, but if you have the opportunity for a weekend visit, seize it. Stroll along the northern lakeshore, find a bench, and take in some of the most breathtaking views you’ll ever encounter during your travels.

▶ Must-do: Take a ride on one of the scenic cogwheel trains, like the Vitznau-Rigi Kulm railway, to reach a mountain summit and enjoy the panoramic views.

Turku, Finland

Turku isn’t a common stop on most tourist itineraries, which is unfortunate. This university town provides an excellent summer retreat with its vibrant culture, fantastic dining options, and one of Europe’s finest farmers’ markets. Most importantly, it maintains a relaxed vibe. While Europe swelters through summer heat, Turku offers a refreshing escape.

This city serves as a gateway to the breathtaking Finnish archipelago, an array of islands stretching over the Baltic Sea toward Sweden. Yet again, what makes Turku truly appealing isn’t just its scenery or developing reputation as a sustainable city – it’s the friendliness of the people. Although Finns can be reserved, those I encountered in Turku were eager to express their appreciation for my visit to their often overlooked gem. I hesitate to even mention Turku, fearing it may become another tourist hotspot like Amsterdam.

▶ Must-experience: Drive along the Archipelago Trail from Turku to Naantali, a scenic 155-mile loop showcasing farms, historic towns, castles, and abundant wildlife. It’s a unique journey unlike anything else on Earth.

Whether you’re exploring the Alps in Lucerne or hiking along Finland’s coastline, let 2025 be the year you broaden your horizons. The locations I cherish are not only visually stunning; they also possess a remarkable essence that invites repeat visits.