We know, we’ve bombarded you with 2025 travel inspiration recently, but can you blame us? The fact is that our city editors across the world really know their stuff, so we’ve got an incredible base of local knowledge to call on, whether that’s for things to do or places to eat.
And now, they’ve published their 2025 recommendations for Asia: eight destinations encompassing previously hard-to-reach or overlooked spots, offering alternatives to places feeling the pressure of overtourism.
At the top of the bucket list is Sumba, an unspoiled Indonesian island around a 50-minute flight from Bali, which was also recently spot-lit as a go-to place by Forbes.
About Sumba, Asia writer Delfina Utomo wrote: ‘Known for its idyllic beaches like Nihiwatu (once voted the world’s best beach) and dramatic landscapes of rolling savannahs, this remote island is perfect for travellers seeking adventure and tranquillity. Don’t miss exploring Weekuri Lagoon, a natural saltwater pool perfect for a refreshing swim.’
In second place was Siargao, a tear-drop shaped island in the Philippines which, despite being well-known among surfers, is now on the map for plenty more travellers thanks to more flights from Manila and Cebu.
Da Nang, the Vietnamese beach destination nestled between the South China Sea and Sơn Trà Mountain, claims third place, thanks to its flourishing restaurant and cocktail scene (and you could soon journey there by stunningly-restored vintage train). For the full roundup, read on!
These are the best places to visit in Asia next year
- Sumba, Indonesia
- Siargao, Philippines
- Da Nang, Vietnam
- Tainan, Taiwan
- Ipoh, Malaysia
- Osaka, Japan
- Nan, Thailand
- Lijiang, China
For even more travel inspiration for the new year, have a look at our roundup of 25 coolest things to do in the world for 2025.
Did you see that this central Asian country has been named the world’s ‘most desirable’ emerging destination?
Plus: You could soon travel on a ‘floating train’ that’s faster than a plane.
Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Travel newsletter for all the latest travel news and best stuff happening across the world.
