{"id":24832,"date":"2024-11-14T11:33:27","date_gmt":"2024-11-14T11:33:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/?p=24832"},"modified":"2024-11-15T12:05:58","modified_gmt":"2024-11-15T12:05:58","slug":"etgs-adventure-agenda-for-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/etgs-adventure-agenda-for-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"ETG’s Adventure Agenda for 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"

[vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content_no_spaces” equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”top” css=”.vc_custom_1731583702912{padding-top: 60% !important;background-image: url(https:\/\/www.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/where-to-go-25-etg.jpg?id=24836) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}”][vc_column][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1\/6″][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”2\/3″][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_column_text css=””]New year, new horizons, new stories to tell. ETG\u2019s co-founder Sam Clark shares where you should go in 2025 depending on what floats your boat \u2013 from life-affirming adventures in the freshest of ETG destinations, to secret corners of Asia to explore before the rest of the world catches on…<\/em>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”chino” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

Where to go in 2025<\/span><\/h1>\n

[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

Nepal: for a proper adventure<\/h3>\n

Nepal<\/a>\u2019s full of surprises \u2013 it\u2019s <\/span>far <\/span><\/i>more than just mountains and trekking. It\u2019s a land of thrilling adventure and serene spirituality. Of genuine cultural immersion and genuine human connection. Of terracotta temple-strewn cities\u00a0and rugged rural idylls.<\/span><\/p>\n

With a wave of new lodges \u2013\u00a0like the stylish Shinta Mani Mustang \u2013 and once-forbidden regions \u2013\u00a0like the fabled Kingdom of Mustang \u2013\u00a0only just opening up to travellers, 2025 will be <\/span>the <\/span><\/i>year to experience Nepal at its finest.<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”24844″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]So, say the word and we\u2019ll whisk you away to her highlights, her hidden corners and into the very heart of her communities. <\/span><\/p>\n

If you\u2019ve never been before, have a peek at this sample itinerary of ours: <\/span>Nepal, the ETG Way: Iconic Sights with a Twist<\/span><\/a>. It\u2019ll give you a real feel for this country\u2019s wonders like Kathmandu and Chitwan National Park, and more unusual experiences like incredible, <\/span>immersive homestays<\/span><\/a> that you simply can\u2019t miss out on.<\/span><\/p>\n

If you’re game, I recommend timing your trip to coincide with a festival, so you can get swept up in the action.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”24842″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” css=””][vc_separator color=”chino” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

Indonesia: for nature nuts<\/h3>\n

Ok, pub quiz time. How many islands does Indonesia have? Go on, take a guess. 500? 1,000? Try\u00a0<\/span>17,000! <\/span><\/i>Yes, you read that right \u2013 more islands than you could explore in a lifetime.<\/span><\/p>\n

That\u2019s where <\/span>Rascal Voyages<\/span><\/a> steps in. Because if choosing between 17,000 islands makes your head spin, why not turn to the experts to plan your off-grid adventure? Step aboard one of Rascal’s sleek custom-built yachts and your hardest decisions will be which cocktail to choose or whether you\u2019d rather snorkel or sunbathe.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once you\u2019re on board, expect luxury with a laid-back vibe:\u00a0your own\u00a0rooftop deck with striped deckchairs\u00a0for those endless views, a private chef who\u2019ll memorise your favourite tipple, and bespoke day trips to the region\u2019s best-kept secrets.<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”24845″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]Komodo National Park will knock your socks off\u00a0\u2013 it\u2019s the wildlife wonderland that David Attenborough recently brought into the limelight on his latest BBC wildlife series, <\/span>Asia<\/span><\/i><\/a>. I\u2019ve no doubt it\u2019ll be even more sought after in the coming months.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

For something more exclusive, go for\u00a0ravishing Raja Ampat. Trust me, it\u2019s <\/span>the <\/span><\/i>ultimate far-flung island escape, which most people can only dream about. To get an idea of what your adventure could look like, have a look at this new itinerary of ours: From Java to Raja Ampat: an Indonesian Extravaganza.<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Rascal also sails around the lesser-seen Spice Islands<\/a>, the Ring of Fire crossing, and Eastern Lesser Sunda<\/a>, so you can take your pick between these pockets of paradise.<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”24843″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” css=””][vc_separator color=”chino” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

Sri Lanka: for good old-fashioned fun<\/h3>\n

Look, I know the idea of flopping on a beach for a week sounds tempting. But more often than not, you\u2019ll be feeling restless in no time. Plus, with teens in tow? Forget it! It’s that adventurous side in all of us that needs to be unleashed.\u00a0So, grab your passport, pack your walking boots, and prepare for a holiday that\u2019s full of life.<\/span><\/p>\n

Sri Lanka\u2019s phenomenal <\/span>Pekoe Trail<\/span><\/a> is the perfect way to do just that. This 300km trek through the tea country has been making waves in the travel world, winning awards and turning heads left, right, and centre. <\/span>Wanderlust <\/span><\/i>recently named it \u201cthe most exciting way to explore Sri Lanka\u2019s green heart,\u201d with <\/span>National Geographic<\/span><\/i> singing its praises, too.<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s set to keep growing in popularity for 2025, but don\u2019t worry \u2013 with our insider tips, we\u2019ll lead you to the quieter stretches where it\u2019s just you and the views on this holiday<\/a>. (And, again, if travelling with teens, walking together will spark conversations that you probably wouldn\u2019t have in your usual routine at home – a bit like chats in the car \u2013 when there\u2019s no pressure of eye contact!).<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”24846″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]There are plenty more ways to get off the beaten track in Sri Lanka<\/a> while walking: right the way from proper hikes to hidden waterfalls to simple scenic strolls through cascading tea-clad hills.<\/p>\n

One of my favourite areas to go off-piste is the Knuckles Mountain Range, where we’ve just developed new experiences and found cool hotels for ETG travellers: watch this space…<\/p>\n

In the meantime, why not explore our recently refreshed nature and wildlife holidays in Sri Lanka<\/a>?[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”24848″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” css=””][vc_separator color=”chino” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

Thailand: for ethical animal encounters<\/h3>\n

If your travel wishlist doesn\u2019t include seeing elephants in the wild \u2013 rewrite the list. It\u2019s a uniquely wonderful experience that’ll live long in the memory. Thankfully, with strides made by ETG-recommended ethical elephant sanctuaries and camps (listed in our guide to elephants in Thailand<\/a>), it\u2019s now possible to observe these gentle giants without any guilt.<\/span><\/p>\n

Set off on a mountain adventure in the northern part of the country, miles from the tourist trail, to encounter elephants<\/a>. You\u2019ll be welcomed into the fold of the Karen hilltribe community, learn from expert mahouts and trek through untouched cloud forests to observe the elephants in their natural habitat. Also, you\u2019ll contribute directly to the Mahouts Elephant Foundation\u2019s conservation efforts: win-win.<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”24849″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]These special experiences can be tied in with other hidden hotels and secret adventures<\/a> like a visit to Khao Sok National Park.<\/p>\n

Here, there are even more wild adventures: from bamboo rafting and night safaris to wildlife spotting (keep your eyes peeled for acrobatic gibbons, elusive tapiers, vibrant hornbills and other extraordinary birds).<\/p>\n

I predict that in 2025 and beyond, ethical encounters will be one of the most meaningful ways to experience Thailand.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”24854″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” css=””][vc_separator color=”chino” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

India: for the more intrepid traveller<\/h3>\n

In case you missed it, I thought I\u2019d jot down a quick refresher on a place I had the privilege of scouting out for ETG travellers earlier this year: a little-visited region in Uttarakhand. Does the name ring a bell? If not, Rishikesh will \u2013 \u201cthe yoga capital of the world\u201d is famed for The Beatles visiting back in the ’60s. But, I have to say, this area\u2019s spiritual allure goes back further than our favourite Liverpudlians! They were just the spark that put it on the map for the West \u2013 there’s far more depth to this incredible, off-the-beaten-track region to discover.<\/span><\/p>\n

You may fancy <\/span>following in my footsteps<\/span><\/a> by exploring Binsar National Park\u00a0and staying at the blissfully secluded Nine Furlongs<\/a> lodge but however you’d like to spend your time here, the towering Himalayan peaks on the horizon will wow you.<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”24851″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]With six national parks, Uttarakhand is a haven for wildlife spotters and one of the top places in India for seeing tigers in the wild.<\/span> I love Jim Corbett NP<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

I\u2019d say venturing into this region is a must for any traveller looking for both exhilaration and the luxury of time to relax and rejuvenate in scenic surroundings at some of the finest yet tucked-away hotels in India.<\/span><\/p>\n

I recommend venturing to Kumaon in 2025 as it\u2019s only a matter of time before the rest of the world catches on to its beauty…<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”24852″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” css=””][vc_separator color=”chino” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

Vietnam<\/span>: for those wanting to take it slow<\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n

I know it\u2019s tempting to pack as much in as possible on your precious time abroad but here at ETG, we always say less is more. In a similar vein, darting between cities on planes, boats, and cars can be a great way to maximise your time abroad, but often, it\u2019s nicer to move at a gentler pace (and kinder to our planet, too). I urge you to consider exploring the wonders of Vietnam by rail, using the \u2018Reunification Express\u2019 route<\/a>. It’s great fun.<\/span><\/p>\n

Sink into your seat and watch gorgeous landscapes glide by as you journey from the north to the south<\/a> \u2013 from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. Cond\u00e9 Nast Traveller<\/em> is predicting Ho Chi Minh to boom in popularity in 2025, as the city is \u201cset to unveil a number of events, exhibitions and celebrations commemorating half a century of national reunification.\u201d All the more reason to go!<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”24860″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]Embrace <\/span>the art of slow living in Hue<\/span><\/a> by meandering around the calm countryside outside the city\u00a0on foot or by bike, stopping off at ancient Garden Houses for a cuppa and a chat with locals. Escape the crowds in Halong Bay by floating\u00a0around the beguiling Bai Tu Long Bay\u00a0instead. Unwind on a glorious beach on a serene peninsula south of Quy Nhon while staying at the impressive <\/span>Zannier Bai San Ho<\/span><\/a>.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

There\u2019s so much to see and soak up in vibrant Vietnam. So, please \u2013 don’t rush it.<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”24856″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” css=””][vc_separator color=”chino” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

<\/h2>\n

READY TO MAKE THE MOST OF 2025?<\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n

Let’s make it happen! Talk to us on 020 7924 7133<\/span>\r\n \t.<\/p>\n

Alternatively, fill out an online enquiry form to start your journey<\/a>.<\/p>\n

[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”1\/6″][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

New year, new horizons, new stories to tell. ETG\u2019s co-founder Sam Clark shares where you should go in 2025 \u2013 from the freshest of ETG destinations, to secret corners of Asia to explore before the rest of the world catches on…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":24840,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_lmt_disableupdate":"no","_lmt_disable":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1348,827,603,62,639,1394,1444,15,13,1344,1427,12],"tags":[],"coauthors":[924],"class_list":["post-24832","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-across-asia","category-borneo","category-family-travel","category-india","category-indonesia","category-luxury-travel","category-nepal","category-sri-lanka","category-thailand","category-the-etg-take-on-travel","category-travel-inspiration","category-vietnam"],"aioseo_notices":[],"views":5907,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/24832","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=24832"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/24832\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/24840"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=24832"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=24832"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=24832"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=24832"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}