The world is wide, wondrous, and waiting for your next adventure! 2025 promises to be an incredible year for travel, with hidden gems waiting to welcome every traveler. As we step into a new year filled with endless travel possibilities, HalalTrip team is thrilled to present HalalTrip's Top Destinations to travel to in 2025!
Pack your travel journal and let's get started on exploring the HT Top Picks for the best places to visit in 2025!
Malta has always held a special place in my heart as one of my favorite countries in Europe. Its strategic location in the south of Italy lends it an air of Mediterranean charm infused with centuries of rich history and culture. Among its many treasures, Valletta stands out as a beacon of architectural grandeur and vibrant life. The city’s warm limestone buildings and azure harbors paint a picture that feels like stepping into a masterpiece. Visiting Valletta is not just a trip; it’s a journey through a living canvas of history and beauty, showcasing why Malta is a true gem of Europe.
One of the highlights of my planned visit to Valletta is exploring the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Perched atop the city walls, this tranquil spot offers breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities beyond. The manicured gardens, coupled with the striking Saluting Battery, make this place nothing short of mesmerizing. Every photograph and account of the Barrakka Gardens I’ve come across exudes serenity and awe, compelling me to witness its beauty firsthand. I can already imagine the gentle Mediterranean breeze accompanying the panoramic views, leaving me in utter admiration.
For accommodations, my dream choice is the Iniala Harbour House. Nestled along the picturesque waterfront, this boutique hotel is perfect for soaking in the essence of Valletta. What excites me most about staying here is the opportunity to witness the sunset over the harbor from the comfort of my room. The golden hues reflecting off the calm waters and historic fortifications create a magical ambiance that is nothing short of enchanting. The Iniala Harbour House seems like an ideal base to immerse myself in the city’s splendor while enjoying unparalleled luxury.
Valletta’s allure doesn’t end with its iconic landmarks like the Valletta Waterfront, the Bażilika Santwarju tal-Madonna tal-Karmnu, and the awe-inspiring Saint John’s Co-Cathedral. The waterfront is a vibrant hub where history and modern life intertwine, offering delightful dining and shopping experiences by the sea. Saint John’s Co-Cathedral, with its ornate Baroque interiors, is a testament to Malta’s artistic and religious heritage. Lastly, I can’t wait to stroll down Strait Street, the city’s famed narrow lane, once notorious but now a hub of lively cafes and bars. These experiences combined make Valletta a must-visit destination, promising to leave me with memories as vivid and captivating as the city itself.
(Image credit: Matheus Frade on Unsplash)
I love budget-friendly trips, and Yogyakarta (or Yogya) is my top choice, as I've been there numerous times because of it! This city has a welcoming vibe, rich culture, and is perfect for travelers who want an authentic experience without spending much (just like me!).
From bustling Malioboro Street to the serene southern beaches, Yogya is a haven for explorers. Street food lovers will delight in finding Nasi Kucing (tiny rice packets) for under a dollar and still having cash left for Wedang Ronde (a warm ginger drink).
The locals are incredibly friendly. They’re always ready to chat, give directions, and share recommendations for hidden gems. I had some oopsie moments there, and I hadn't expected that they would be willing to help! If you seek experiences over extravagance, Yogya might just become your favorite destination.
I want to visit Jeju because it offers everything I love about island life. The beautiful beaches, clear blue water, and peaceful nature make it the perfect place to relax. I enjoy visiting small cafes, and Jeju has many cozy spots where I can drink coffee or try local treats like Hallabong desserts. The quiet neighborhoods on the island, with their small streets and friendly atmosphere, feel warm and welcoming. I would love to walk along the stone walls, visit traditional houses, and enjoy the fresh air. Jeju’s calm vibe makes it a great place to escape the busy city and enjoy simple, peaceful moments. Whether it’s watching the waves, exploring pretty hiking trails, or sitting in a quiet café, Jeju seems like the perfect place for someone who loves nature, quiet places, and charming island life.
(Image credit: benzoix on Freepik)
Basically, it's just beautiful. Filled with cultural hubs, hotspots, and kind people, stepping into Kyoto is unlike what you've expected. While they seem crowded, they are likely local tourists (outside of the world-known destinations), making it a pleasant visit for everyone. Kyoto is a destination that promises an enchanting blend of tradition, culture, and genuine warmth, filled with ancient temples and shrines that seamlessly coexist with vibrant local life, offering an immersive journey into Japan’s rich history and modern charm.
Stepping into Kyoto feels like stepping into another world—one where every corner tells a story, and every street exudes an air of timeless elegance. Despite its popularity, the city’s visitors are predominantly local tourists, giving Kyoto a unique, authentic atmosphere even in bustling spots.
From tranquil bamboo groves in Arashiyama to the iconic golden hues of Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto is a treasure trove of cultural hubs and must-visit hotspots. But what truly sets this city apart is its kind-hearted residents, who embody the spirit of Japanese hospitality, making your experience all the more unforgettable.
With pleasant weather and transportation lines, you can try visiting during fall as it is the best time celcius wise, fashion-wise, and nature-wise. It's also the city where I experienced my first snow with orange leaves and sakura still blooming, quite an unexpected experience that you must try if you're lucky enough!
Beijing, known for its bustling city life, is a haven for solo budget travelers. You’ll love how bicycle-friendly the roads are, making it easy to explore trendy hotspots and indulge in food adventures. With app-activated bike rentals readily available, navigating the city has never been more convenient.
Among other attractions, a visit to the Summer Palace during spring is the best excursion you can ask for the landscape of the frozen lake Kunming. Best spot for OOTD with a breathtaking view of the Palace.
While you are at it, you can try to hike the Great Wall although it's not ideal due to the cold, you can challenge yourself and probably make some friends along the way up and take a commemorative pic.
For youngsters, and trend seekers who are into urban life and art exhibitions, 798 Art Street is the experience you would want to explore, there are paid and free exhibitions you can visit and appreciate both modern and traditional art of the local artists in Beijing. There are a lot of beautiful and aesthetic cafes for your gram make sure you don’t miss that out. There are also art installations along the street perfect for your pictures kept as memories.
For Muslim travelers, you have to stop by Niujie Street and look out for the 清真 characters to pick up some local delicacies for a very affordable price. You have to try the Lamb Skewers cooked freshly in the store. Do also shop in the Halal Market as part of a cultural experience to grab some snacks for a more affordable option of souvenirs for your pals and fam.
Did I tell you that dairy products in Beijing are like staples? Yes, do pick up all the various flavors of the yogurt, especially the original one, you can also get it heated from the roadside hawkers. Trust me, it is the perfect combo to fight the cold weather.
Make sure you are warmly dressed and put on a pair of gloves or pick up a heat pack from the nearest convenience store! It is real cold no cap!
(Image credit: H. Hach on Pixabay)
Sa Pa, Vietnam, is a fantastic destination for travelers from tropical countries who want to experience a cool climate similar to Europe and Switzerland. If you’re lucky, you might even get to see some snow! Just imagine, it’s located in Southeast Asia, and the currency exchange rates make it quite affordable compared to other countries. So, why not? When I visit a destination, my main concern is the natural environment. If a place feels too much like a city, what’s the point? I recently watched a Korean variety show featuring travel in Sa Pa, and it really opened my eyes to how this place checks all the boxes for my travel considerations. Sa Pa has a dreamy atmosphere, and the accessibility is top-notch! Many places focus on nature but are hard to reach, but Sa Pa is perfect for travelers who don’t want to stick to a strict itinerary or travel tour. The town is designed as a tourist-friendly destination, and the locals are very welcoming to all the visitors. If you want to get to Sa Pa from Hanoi, you can simply take a sleeper train at night, and you’ll arrive in the morning, greeted by the beauty of the town. Getting around is easy and affordable, and accommodation options are very budget-friendly!
