Hi Kojo, I have been saving up for a while now and I really want to make 2025 the year I finally take a proper trip abroad. The problem is that there are just too many countries to choose from and I keep second guessing myself. I know you have traveled a lot, so I’d love to hear your thoughts on which countries you think are the best to visit this year. I am looking for destinations that are worth the money and give a memorable experience.

That is a really good question, and honestly one I get asked all the time. I completely understand how overwhelming it can feel when you are faced with so many amazing destinations and only one or two trips to plan for the year. I have been in that same situation myself, looking at maps and lists of countries and second guessing every choice. The truth is, there isn’t a single “best” country because it depends on what you are looking for. But there are definitely places that stand out in 2025 for their culture, affordability, safety, and the kind of experiences that stay with you for a lifetime.

When I think about where to travel this year, I look at destinations that balance value for money with unique experiences. I also pay attention to how easy it is to get around, how welcoming the people are, and whether or not it feels safe. Based on that, here are some of my top picks for 2025:

1. Japan

Japan is one of those places that never goes out of style. With the world fully open again, it has become even more popular in 2025. From Tokyo’s neon streets to Kyoto’s traditional temples, there is such a beautiful blend of old and new. The food is out of this world, public transport is efficient, and the country is one of the safest in the world. Yes, it can be pricey in the big cities, but you can balance that by staying in budget ryokans or smaller towns.

2. Portugal

For Europe, Portugal continues to shine. It is more affordable than Spain, France, or Italy, and yet it gives you incredible history, coastline, and food. Lisbon is a city full of charm with its hills and trams, while Porto offers riverside beauty and of course the famous Port wine. If you want beaches, the Algarve is stunning. What I love most is how warm and welcoming the people are, which makes it such a comfortable destination for travelers.

3. Singapore

I cannot leave out Singapore, a place that continues to impress me. For such a small country, it offers so much. From the iconic Marina Bay Sands skyline to the bustling hawker centers where you can eat some of the best street food in the world, Singapore is a destination that feels futuristic and traditional at the same time. It is also one of the cleanest and safest places you can travel to, which makes it great for families and solo travelers alike. Yes, it is a bit more expensive than some other Asian destinations, but the quality of the experience more than makes up for it.

4. Italy

Italy is a timeless classic. Every time I visit, I feel like I discover something new. Rome is a history book come alive, Florence is art and culture in one place, and Venice is just pure magic. Beyond the famous spots, there are beautiful countryside towns and coastal gems that feel untouched. The food and wine alone are worth the trip. Italy is one of those countries that you can return to again and again and never get tired of.

5. South Africa

For those who want adventure and variety, South Africa is incredible. You can go on safari in Kruger National Park, explore Cape Town with its beaches and mountains, and enjoy some of the best wine in Stellenbosch. It is also one of the most affordable destinations if you are traveling with dollars, pounds, or euros. The country has so much to offer and is perfect for those who want both city life and nature in one trip.

6. Vietnam

If affordability is your top priority, Vietnam is hard to beat. From the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the lantern-lit alleys of Hoi An and the natural beauty of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam gives you so much value for very little money. Food is cheap and delicious, accommodation is budget-friendly, and the people are incredibly hospitable. It is one of my favorite recommendations for budget travelers who still want big adventures.

7. Mexico

Mexico is more than just beaches and resorts. Yes, Cancun and Tulum are beautiful, but the country has so much more to offer. Mexico City is packed with culture, food, and history, while places like Oaxaca and Mérida show a different side of Mexico with traditions, markets, and festivals. It’s affordable, diverse, and full of life, making it a fantastic choice for travel.

8. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai is one of those destinations that always amazes me no matter how many times I visit. When you think about it, it is almost unbelievable what the city has become in just a few decades. Not long ago, much of this land was nothing but desert. Today, it has transformed into one of the greatest cities on earth.

Walking through Dubai feels like stepping into the future. You see the Burj Khalifa piercing the sky, shopping malls that look more like entertainment cities, and artificial islands shaped like palm trees that you can spot even from space. The transformation of the desert into this kind of modern wonder is nothing short of a miracle, and that is one of the main reasons I believe everyone should experience Dubai at least once.

But Dubai is not only about skyscrapers and shopping. This city actually has a mixture of tradition and modernity. You can spend the morning exploring souks filled with spices and gold, and by evening, be enjoying fine dining in a restaurant overlooking futuristic city lights. Then there is the desert itself, which still holds its magic. Going on a desert safari, watching the sunset over endless dunes, and then seeing the skyline rise in the distance is an experience that really stays with you.

For me, Dubai is living proof of what vision and determination can achieve. The leaders of Dubai show far a place can come when societies invest in growth and think big. That story alone makes Dubai worth visiting. Add to it the incredible food, hospitality, and the mix of cultures from all over the world, and you have a destination that truly stands out.