Ah, travel. That seductive siren song luring you out of your sweatpants and into the wild unknown, where you can Instagram your way through history, culture, and overpriced coffee. Each year, the New York Times compiles a list of 20 Places to Go, ostensibly to inspire your wanderlust but really just to test your ability to ignore your dwindling bank balance. This year’s list for 2025 is no different. Let’s take a tour through the highlights with a healthy dose of cynicism, shall we?
1. Jane Austen’s England
Ah, the rolling hills of Hampshire, the cradle of Austen’s biting wit. Sure, you could go for the literary connection, but let’s be honest: you’re really here for the Bridgerton-core vibes. Put on a bonnet, clutch a paperback of Pride and Prejudice, and prepare for disappointment when you realize Mr. Darcy isn’t real. But hey, there’s a Jane Austen-themed fair, so you can buy expensive trinkets while pretending you’re cultured.
2. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
Nothing screams “eco-tourism” like doubling the entrance fee. Now, you too can save the turtles by throwing cash at conservation efforts that may or may not succeed. The Galápagos penguin might be on the brink of extinction, but at least you’ll get a good selfie with a tortoise that looks like it’s seen some things. Just don’t forget: sustainable tourism is chic, as long as you don’t ask too many questions.
3. Kyoto, Japan
You’ve seen it on TikTok — geisha makeup, sakura blossoms, and perfectly arranged sushi. Kyoto promises a dreamscape of serenity, interrupted only by the hordes of influencers fighting for their perfect kimono-clad shot. Visit a temple, but make sure your reverence fits within the Instagram frame. Bonus points if you caption it: “Finding myself in Kyoto 🌸✨.”
4. Namibia
Want to feel small and insignificant? Namibia’s got you covered with its endless sand dunes and star-studded skies. It’s like visiting Mars, but with fewer aliens and more ostriches. Just be prepared for your friends to ask, “Where is Namibia again?” when you regale them with tales of your spiritual awakening in the desert.
5. Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany, the OG travel cliché. You’re here for the wine, the pasta, and the illusion that you’re living in a Diane Lane movie. You’ll rent a villa with an “authentic” rustic charm (translation: no Wi-Fi), and spend your days alternating between Instagramming your meals and lamenting that Italian people are better dressed than you.
6. Dubai, UAE
If Las Vegas had a billionaire cousin, it would be Dubai. Think luxury malls, man-made islands, and a skyline that screams, “We have too much money.” It’s the kind of place where you can ski indoors in the morning and roast in a desert safari by afternoon. Come for the excess, stay for the existential crisis about income inequality.
7. Antarctica
It’s the ultimate flex: “I vacationed on a melting ice sheet.” Cruise ships now glide through the fragile ecosystem so you can sip champagne while contemplating climate change. Penguins waddle past as if to ask, “Was this really necessary?” But hey, you’re saving the planet one eco-friendly parka purchase at a time.
8. New Orleans, USA
Jazz, beignets, and a Mardi Gras hangover — New Orleans offers culture with a side of chaos. Wander through the French Quarter and pretend you’re in an HBO drama. Just don’t forget to pack stretchy pants; the gumbo and po’ boys are worth the heartburn.
9. Cairo, Egypt
The pyramids have been standing for millennia, and they’ve waited this long for you to show up with your ring light and hashtag game. Tour guides will regale you with tales of ancient pharaohs while you secretly wonder if the camel ride is ethical. Pro tip: the Sphinx’s nose isn’t the only thing missing; Wi-Fi coverage is spotty at best.
10. Tasmania, Australia
Tasmania is like Australia’s quirky little cousin: beautiful, underrated, and full of surprises. Think rugged coastlines, devilish wildlife, and artisanal everything. The locals are friendly, which might disarm your big-city cynicism, but don’t worry — the craft beer scene will restore your sense of hipster superiority.
11. Bhutan
Want to feel enlightened? Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness index will remind you how miserable your capitalist existence is. Daily visitor fees make it feel exclusive, but you’ll leave with an empty wallet and a newfound appreciation for minimalism. Or maybe just regret for trying yak butter tea.
12. Detroit, USA
Who knew the Motor City would become a hipster haven? Detroit has emerged from its ashes with craft breweries, art installations, and a resilience that’ll put your avocado-toast complaints into perspective. Visit for the culture; stay for the Midwestern kindness that’ll make you feel guilty about ghosting your friends.
13. Seoul, South Korea
K-pop, K-dramas, K-everything. Seoul is a sensory overload, but in the best way. Between the street food and futuristic tech, you might feel like you’ve entered a Black Mirror episode. Just remember, the real challenge isn’t navigating the subway — it’s explaining your BTS obsession to your coworkers when you get back.
14. Scotland’s Highlands
The Highlands offer dramatic landscapes and enough castles to fulfill your medieval fantasies. You’ll hike rugged trails, down whisky by the fire, and pretend you’re a character in Outlander. Spoiler alert: real life is colder and involves fewer shirtless Scotsmen.
15. New Zealand
Yes, it’s stunning. Yes, it’s the setting for The Lord of the Rings. But by the time you’ve flown halfway around the world, you’ll start to wonder if all this greenery was worth the jet lag. Spoiler: it is. Just try not to weep when you realize the hobbit holes are purely decorative.
16. Patagonia, Chile
Patagonia is what happens when nature flexes. Glaciers, mountains, and wind strong enough to blow away your overpriced hiking hat. You’ll return with breathtaking photos and thighs of steel, assuming you survive the altitude and aggressive llamas.
17. Barcelona, Spain
GaudÃ’s whimsical architecture might steal your heart, but the sangria will steal your liver. Wander through Las Ramblas and watch as pickpockets turn your vacation into an impromptu exercise in minimalism. Still, the tapas are worth the hassle — as is pretending you know something about fútbol.
18. Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech is a kaleidoscope of colors, spices, and sensory overload. The souks are enchanting until you realize you’re hopelessly lost and surrounded by carpets you can’t afford. But don’t worry; the mint tea will soothe your nerves — and the rooftop views will make it all worthwhile.
19. Montreal, Canada
Montreal is the lovechild of Paris and Brooklyn. You’ll alternate between French patisseries and underground music venues, all while questioning why poutine hasn’t caught on globally. If you’re lucky, you’ll visit during a festival, because this city throws a party at the drop of a toque.
20. The Moon
Kidding. Or am I? By the time SpaceX gets its act together, lunar vacations might actually make the 2026 list. Start saving now; I hear moon dust is all the rage.
The Reality of Wanderlust
Travel lists like this are fun, aspirational, and borderline delusional. Whether you visit one place or all 20, remember that the real joy of travel isn’t in checking destinations off a list — it’s in the stories, the surprises, and, yes, the occasional disaster. So pack your bags, and don’t forget to pack your patience. The world is big, beautiful, and endlessly ridiculous. Happy trails.
Chicmi