The best winter destinations for 2025 are named

A seasonal vacation can be turned into an unforgettable journey full of vivid impressions. Of course, you should take into account your budget, capabilities, and personal preferences.

Experts have released the Best in Travel 2025 rating, a selection of the best places to visit next year. These are not the most popular, but rather somewhat exotic destinations for experienced travelers. For example, in January, tour operators advise visiting Laos or Switzerland, and in February, Launceston and the Tamar Valley.

Laos

Dry and relatively cool January is the perfect time to discover the cultural and natural wonders of Laos. The temples and gilded roofs of Luang Prabang are usually the starting point for exploring the region, where leopards and elephants roam protected areas and hill tribes maintain a traditional way of life in remote villages. In the east, be sure to visit the Plain of Jars near Phonsavan. In the southern areas, you can discover the elegant carved temples around Champasak and the laid-back charm of Si Phan Don - the "Four Thousand Islands" scattered throughout the Mekong River.

Valais, Switzerland

January is the best month for skiing in Switzerland. You don't have to choose premium resorts like St. Moritz and Zermatt. You can find other quiet valleys where you can enjoy winter walks or skiing. Experts advise visiting Goms and the neighboring villages in the Valais to fully experience the beauty of the Swiss winter. Trains to Goms depart from Brig, connected by direct flights to the airports of Zurich and Geneva, as well as to cities such as Lausanne and Basel.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

January is the middle of the cool season in Thailand. This is a great time for outdoor activities, such as visiting parks that are closed during the rainy season. It's also a great time to visit famous temples, immerse yourself in local culture, or take a gastronomic tour.

Puducherry, India

February is an ideal time to visit Puducherry, as there is no monsoon and the weather is cool and dry. Tourists are advised to explore the local culture, including temples and ashrams. It is also worth visiting contemporary art galleries and enjoying the French colonial architecture. You can even go to the beach, as Puducherry is working to restore sandy beaches that were previously destroyed by erosion. Be sure to visit nearby Auroville, a "universal town" where people from other countries live in an experimental community.

Launceston and Tamar Valley, Tasmania, Australia

This is a unique destination for lovers of unforgettable experiences. In February, the average temperature in Launceston, Tasmania, is around 23°C. Stop by the culinary festival in the city park, which runs from January 31 to February 2, 2025. When you've had your fill of local food and wine, be sure to head to Narawntapu National Park to see kangaroos and wombats. Planning tip: you can book direct flights to Launceston from almost all Australian state capitals.

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