The Friday Society

Happy Sunday, Friday Society! Consider this your invite to the world’s most sought-after destinations for 2025. Whether you’re craving sun-soaked beaches, cultural deep dives, or a front-row seat to history in the making, we’ve rounded up the places that we think deserve a spot on your itinerary next year. Pack your bags, book the flight—these are the places everyone will be talking about. Your Instagram feed will thank us later.

Thailand – A White Lotus-Worthy Escape

After The White Lotus teased its upcoming season set in Thailand, this tropical paradise is about to see an influx of luxury-seekers. From the breathtaking beaches of Krabi to the electric energy of Bangkok, 2025 is the perfect time to indulge in Thai culture, food, and five-star resorts.

We have our eye on the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui.

Portugal – Europe’s Underrated Gem

Lisbon’s charm is undeniable, but Portugal’s entire coastline is calling. From the wine country of the Douro Valley to the cliffside beaches of the Algarve, this is where old-world beauty meets modern cool.

Perched on the sun-drenched hills of Portugal’s Douro Valley, Quinta Nova Winery House is where old-world charm meets modern indulgence. As one of the region’s oldest wine estates, this boutique hotel (only 11 rooms) offers an immersive stay among sprawling vineyards, with panoramic river views and world-class wine at your fingertips. Spend your days savoring estate-grown vintages, exploring historic wine cellars, and indulging in farm-to-table cuisine—all while soaking in the effortless elegance of Portugal’s wine country. If sipping a crisp white on a terrace overlooking rolling vines isn’t a main character moment, we don’t know what is.

Italy – Because La Dolce Vita Never Goes Out of Style

Whether it’s sipping limoncello on the Amalfi Coast, exploring Rome’s ancient streets, or uncovering the quiet magic of Puglia, Italy continues to be a must-visit. 2025 is the year to romanticize your life—and no one does romance like the Italians.

Tucked away on Italy’s Amalfi Coast like a well-kept secret, Atrani is the definition of under-the-radar luxury. This tiny seaside gem—often overshadowed by its glitzy neighbors—delivers all the coastal charm without the crowds. Picture pastel-hued buildings stacked against dramatic cliffs, intimate piazzas where locals sip espresso, and sun-drenched beaches lapped by the Tyrrhenian Sea. Wander its maze-like streets, indulge in just-caught seafood, and embrace the dolce far niente lifestyle. If you’re looking for an escape that feels like stepping into a postcard (without fighting for a seat at the café), Atrani is definitely your answer.

Asheville, NC – The Comeback City

After recent hurricanes, Asheville is rebuilding stronger than ever. With its thriving art scene, stunning Blue Ridge Mountain views, and an emerging food scene, this Southern city is proving resilience is just another reason to visit.

Stepping onto the grounds of The Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, feels like entering a Gilded Age dream. This sprawling château—America’s largest privately owned home—boasts 250 rooms of sheer opulence, from its grand banquet hall to its library with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves straight out of Beauty and the Beast. Beyond the estate, perfectly manicured gardens, rolling Blue Ridge Mountain views, and an award-winning winery make it the ultimate escape. Whether you’re indulging in a wine tasting, exploring the grounds by horseback, or simply soaking in the Vanderbilt-level luxury, the Biltmore proves that grandeur never goes out of style.

Amsterdam – A Historic Celebration

Amsterdam turns 750 years old in 2025, and the city is throwing a celebration worthy of its rich history. Expect concerts, art exhibitions, and a city-wide energy that makes this an unmissable year to visit the Dutch capital.

If you’re craving a stylish stay in the heart of Amsterdam, Hotel Cornelisz is your chic, design-forward answer. Nestled on the iconic P.C. Hooftstraat, this boutique hotel places you steps away from the city’s best museums, high-end shopping, and charming canals. The interiors are effortlessly modern with a touch of Dutch flair, offering a cozy yet sophisticated retreat after a day of exploring. Whether you’re museum-hopping at the Rijksmuseum or sipping coffee along the water, Hotel Cornelisz keeps you close to the action—because in Amsterdam, location is everything.

Milan – A Stylish Prelude to the 2026 Olympics

Milan is getting ready to host the 2026 Winter Olympics, and the city is already buzzing with new hotels, restaurants, and high-fashion moments. It’s always been a style capital, but next year, it will be the place to be.

Milan Fashion Week 2025 is set to be nothing short of iconic—think cutting-edge designs, front-row drama, and the effortless glamour only Italy can deliver. Expect powerhouse brands like Prada, Gucci, and Fendi to set the tone for the Olympics with bold, sport-infused tailoring and Olympic-inspired collections. The streets? A runway of their own, where fashion insiders and trendsetters turn Milan into a masterclass in effortless elegance. If there’s ever a time to be in the city where fashion rules, it’s now.

Alaska – Adventure Awaits

From glacier hikes to wildlife encounters, Alaska’s rugged beauty is unmatched. With eco-tourism on the rise, 2025 is the year to explore its untouched landscapes before the crowds catch on.

If Alaska is the final frontier, then the Kenai Peninsula is where adventure meets effortless beauty. Glaciers spill into turquoise waters, rugged mountains frame the horizon, and wildlife—think bald eagles, moose, and grizzlies—roam like they own the place (because, honestly, they do). Whether you’re kayaking through fjords, deep-sea fishing in Homer, or simply soaking in the wilderness, the Kenai Peninsula is proof that nature knows how to put on a show. Pack your layers and your sense of adventure—Alaska’s calling.

Marseille, France – The Next Big Thing on the Riviera

Move over, Nice—Marseille is taking the spotlight. With a rich cultural heritage, vibrant portside dining, and a refreshingly unpretentious energy, this city is redefining the French Riviera.

Marseille is the effortlessly cool, slightly rebellious French seaside city you didn’t know you needed on your 2025 itinerary. This Mediterranean gem is a mix of old-world charm and modern edge—where pastel-hued fishing boats bob in the Vieux-Port while sleek new restaurants and art galleries redefine the scene. Wander through the historic Le Panier district, soak up the views (and the rosé) at a seaside café, or hop on a boat to the breathtaking Calanques. And let’s not forget the bouillabaisse—because in Marseille, seafood isn’t just a meal, it’s a masterpiece.

Western Australia – The Ultimate Coastal Road Trip

If you’ve done Sydney and Melbourne, it’s time to take the road trip of your dreams along Western Australia’s coastline. From pink lakes to world-class wineries, this is Australia’s best-kept secret—until now.

Tucked away in Western Australia, Ferguson Valley is the wine country escape that deserves a spot on your 2025 travel list. Think rolling vineyards, boutique wineries, and a laid-back charm that feels worlds away from the usual tourist trail. Here, the pours are as rich as the scenery—expect bold reds, crisp whites, and cellar doors where the winemakers themselves might be pouring your glass. Spend your days vineyard-hopping, indulging in farm-to-table dining, and taking in the breathtaking valley views. If Margaret River is the A-lister, Ferguson Valley is the effortlessly cool hidden gem—and trust us, the wine tastes just as divine.

Hawaii – A Trip with Meaning

After the devastating 2023 wildfires, visiting Hawaii in 2025 is not just a getaway—it’s a way to support the islands as they rebuild. Skip the tourist traps and opt for locally-owned stays, dining, and experiences that give back to the community.

Hawaii is more than just a postcard-perfect getaway—it’s a place of deep resilience, beauty, and aloha spirit. After the devastating wildfires, the islands are rebuilding with a renewed sense of community and sustainability, making 2025 a meaningful time to visit. While Maui recovers, consider exploring the Big Island’s volcanic landscapes, Kauai’s lush hiking trails, or Oahu’s vibrant culture. Support local businesses, book eco-conscious stays, and experience the islands with the respect they deserve. Hawaii has always been paradise, but now, visiting is more than just a getaway—it’s a way to give back.

Wherever 2025 takes you—whether it’s sipping wine in Australia, attending Milan Fashion Week, or chasing adventure in Alaska—one thing is certain: your passport is about to get a serious upgrade. Travel is more than just a destination; it’s a mood, a mindset, and the ultimate way to collect stories worth telling. So pack your bags, book the trip, and let the world be your runway. See you out there. ️

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