2025 Travel Trends Outlook: Where to Go and How to Explore

This year’s travel trends promise to be more exciting and diverse than ever. At Both Worlds Travel, I’m thrilled to offer options for every kind of adventurer—whether you’re looking for small ship cruises, immersive group tours, or custom itineraries from the simple to the extravagant. Here’s a glance at 2025’s hot destinations along with how I can help make your travel dreams a reality.

Trending Destinations and Experiences

Portugal: River Cruising on the Douro

Portugal’s Douro River Valley is a dreamscape of rolling

vineyards, historic villages, and centuries-old winemaking traditions. A river cruise on the Douro offers an unparalleled way to explore this region. Imagine sipping port wine as you glide past terraced hillsides, docking in charming towns to taste local delicacies, and learning about the cultural heritage that defines Portugal.

With options for luxury and boutique river cruise lines, I can match you with the perfect experience to suit your style.

HOT TIP:  The ships along the Douro are small and sell out quickly, do not wait to book if this is on your 2025 'go there' list.

Sri Lanka and Vietnam: Group Travel Adventures

Sri Lanka and Vietnam are calling for those drawn to adventure and cultural discovery. Sri Lanka’s vibrant landscapes, from tea plantations to pristine beaches, are paired with rich history and unparalleled wildlife experiences. Vietnam offers a tapestry of bustling cities, serene countryside, and some of the best cuisine in the world. Group trips to these destinations allow you to explore with like-minded travelers while enjoying curated experiences that showcase the heart of each country.

TRAVELERS SHOULD EXPECT:  The time needed to travel and explore these regions well is significant. I suggest a minimum of 2 weeks for these destinations.

Amsterdam and Budapest:  Must-Visit Cities

Sometimes, a city stay is all you need to unlock a destination's magic. Amsterdam and Budapest are perfect examples of cities where simplicity meets sophistication. Whether you’re strolling along Amsterdam’s canals or basking in Budapest's thermal baths, I can create an itinerary that blends iconic sights with hidden gems.

From 4- and 5-star accommodations to personalized recommendations, these trips strike the perfect balance between comfort and discovery.

BEST FOR: These destinations are great for family vacations as they offer a slower pace with fewer crowds.

Japan and Sicily: Splurge-Worthy Escapes

When it’s time to indulge, Japan and Sicily offer experiences that are worth every penny. In Japan, immerse yourself in a harmonious blend of ancient tradition and futuristic innovation. Picture yourself enjoying a kaiseki meal, staying in a luxurious ryokan, or marveling at cherry blossoms in Kyoto.

In Sicily, the Mediterranean’s crown jewel, indulge in sun-drenched vineyards, historic towns, and sumptuous cuisine. A splurge-worthy vacation here might include private wine tours, exclusive cooking classes, and stays at boutique properties with breathtaking views.

BUDGET BUSTER:  For a fully customized itinerary here, expect the starting price to be (at a bare minimum) $1,000 per person per day.

Croatia: Cultural Immersion by Yacht

Croatia is for those who really want to get into the destination. You know I have a love affair with the Dalmatian Coast’s historic swoon-worthy towns, the beautiful Adriatic, and the warm and welcoming locals.

I recommend a yacht charter or a small ship group yachting experience to fully embrace Croatia’s charm. Up and coming Croatia: little-known wine regions of the north; stay tuned for more from Both Worlds Travel!

BEAT THE CROWDS:  Plan to go anytime between mid-September and mid-October.

Why Small Ship Cruises and Group Travel Shine in 2025

Small ship cruises lead the way for travelers who want the convenience of unpacking once while exploring numerous areas alongside fewer guests. From luxury ocean cruises (smaller ocean ships) to tiny river cruise ships, and the next big thing: expedition cruises, we can get you rubbing elbows (not literally) with penguins in Antarctica or sipping local wines on Europe’s charming riverbanks. Want something more exotic? Take a look at a cruise along the Mekong, Nile, or the Great Lakes!

Similarly, there is a small group trip for everyone:  from new-to-adulthood Gen Zs to Millennials, Gen Xers, and Baby Boomers. These trips offer refined itineraries with expert local guides, so you can dive deeper into the destination’s culture, history, and natural beauty without the hassle of planning every detail.

BOSS MOVE:  Convenience meets bang for your buck.

The Both Worlds Travel Difference

As your trusted travel industry pro, I am here to ensure your journey is as seamless as it is memorable. In 2025, let’s make your travel dreams a reality—because moments matter, and the world is waiting. Go there.

Ways To Connect

1. Join my private Facebook Group exclusive to Both Worlds Travelers

2. Follow me on Facebook

3. Connect on LinkedIn

About Us

Both Worlds Travel is a boutique Travel Agency based in Raleigh, North Carolina USA that provides thoughtfully curated, highly elevated travel experiences for affluent travelers. Owner Angie Brandt is an expert at crafting tailor-made itineraries and specializes in small ship cruises and adventure travel.

Unforgettable Croatia: An Immersive Journey Through Culture, Connection, and Adventure

Croatia is a land of contrasts—where ancient history meets modern vibrancy, and serene natural beauty intertwines with rich cultural traditions. During my recent Croatian Coastal Cruising trip from Dubrovnik to Split with one of my preferred suppliers, Intrepid, we crisscrossed its coastal towns and historic cities and immersed ourselves in unforgettable experiences that went beyond the typical tourist attractions. From the stone streets of Dubrovnik to the lavender-scented hills of Hvar, this trip was about more than just sightseeing; it was a chance to connect with local culture, savor the slow pace of Mediterranean life, and build lasting memories with new friends. Each stop revealed a different side of Croatia, a country that continues to preserve its authenticity even as it welcomes the world. Read on to relive the magic of our journey and discover why Croatia should be on every traveler’s list.

We began our journey in Dubrovnik, and it was impossible not to feel the weight of history in the ancient, stone-laden streets. The grandeur of Old Town feels like stepping into a living museum, where time seems to pause amidst the towering walls, fortified in the Middle Ages. The warm golden hues of the city during sunset cast a magical glow, but it wasn’t just the cityscape that captivated us—it was the energy, the stories embedded in each stone. It was the soul of the place that resonated.

We boarded our 35-passenger yacht and spent an evening getting to know the other guests, our Tour Leaders, and the crew before setting sail for Korčula; a place that possesses an unexpected enchantment. We found ourselves wandering through narrow corridors, illuminated by lanterns and moonlight, serenaded by the harmonies of klapa music, an ancient tradition of a cappella singing echoing against the stone walls. It was as though the entire island was singing with us, a quiet, soulful melody of life’s simpler, shared moments.

In Opuzen, a peaceful river cruise under an almost full moon had us gliding on waters as black and smooth as silk. Time seemed to stretch in the stillness, the night holding its breath in reverence of the beauty surrounding us. By the time we returned from dinner, the serenity of the night had imprinted itself into our memories.

Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina was a journey of reflection and appreciation. Meeting local artisans who lived through the Bosnian War of the 90s made it clear that art is often a symbol of resilience. True to form, I went in with profound respect for their craft. I encourage every traveler to seek out the artists, to connect through a shared appreciation of their art and please - whatever you do - do not barter or ask them to discount the fruits of their labor.

Show a small, yet meaningful gesture of solidarity.

We capped off the day in Trpanj, where an evening stroll along the water provided a moment of deep gratitude for life's beauty, echoing the peace found along Croatia’s coasts.

The island of Hvar, known for its lavender fields, embraced us with food, wine, and self-care products lovingly made by a small wife-husband team. The best part of Hvar was our evening in Stari Grad, culminating in a dinner shared with old and new friends. There’s something powerful about connection over good food and humor—bonds are formed that no itinerary can ever predict.

And then there was Split; its rain an unexpected companion and one of those impromptu, unforgettable, magical nights.

Dinner with friends from the yacht felt cozy and intimate, with fantastic music permeating the night from a one-man band (and some singing along by our gleeful group). A late night walk passing under the West and East Gates of Diocletian's Palace and Gradska tržnica (the Green Market) in mist that curled around us as we walked, carefree and buzzed with the enchanting hold of Split, a little unsteady among the slick stones laid 1,700 years ago but completely at ease in the moment. There was something magical and completely wonderful about being in the rain-soaked streets of Split—and the companionship that made the city feel alive with possibility.

Our last day with Intrepid introduced us to nature’s grandeur in Krka National Park, where waterfalls crashed into serenity, and our hike allowed us to slow down and admire the raw, untouched beauty of Croatia’s landscapes.

The cherry on top of our journey was Trogir.

This UNESCO-protected town stole my heart with its perfect mix of history, culture, and undeniable charm. Every alleyway, every stone seemed to whisper tales of old, wrapping me in its mystery and reminding me how incredible each of the places we visited on this trip was.

And the heroes of the story...

Our experience in Croatia wouldn’t have been the same without the incredible leadership and expertise of our Intrepid Tour Leaders. They curated every detail with such care, creating a journey that was as seamless as it was unforgettable. From offering fantastic recommendations for local dining, drinks, and coffee spots to sharing insights into the must-see sights, they ensured we had authentic, enriching experiences at every stop. Their suggestions, even for practical things like where to do laundry, showed their commitment to making us feel at home. Beyond logistics, they fostered a sense of community among our group, turning a collection of travelers into a close-knit community by the end of the trip. Their passion for travel, local culture, and bringing people together perfectly reflects Intrepid's core mission to create life-changing experiences. We couldn’t have asked for better Tour Leaders who showed us why Intrepid has earned a coveted spot as a Virtuoso Preferred Supplier.

This itinerary was more than just ticking off beautiful places; it was a lesson in the power of curiosity and connection. Croatia offered its heart to us, and for those willing to ask more questions and dive deeper, it’s a country that gives generously in return.

This trip to Croatia felt like a celebration of life itself—a beautiful reminder that it’s the people we share these moments with that make them truly memorable.

Let’s get you to Croatia. Schedule a call and ‘go there’.

Ways To Connect

1. Join my private Facebook Group exclusive to Both Worlds Travelers

2. Follow me on Facebook

3. Connect on LinkedIn

About Us

Both Worlds Travel is a boutique Travel Agency based in Raleigh, North Carolina USA that provides thoughtfully curated, highly elevated travel experiences for affluent travelers. Owner Angie Brandt is an expert at crafting tailor-made itineraries and specializes in small ship cruises and adventure travel.

Missed Opportunities in Croatia: How Curiosity Expands Your World

I started Both Worlds Travel with the belief that travel can and should be more than just sightseeing—it should be about meaningful experiences and genuine connections. To me, the magic of travel lies in immersing yourself in a destination: engaging with its people, tasting its foods, and learning its traditions and history. I’m talking about shared human experience. This philosophy has always been at the core of what I aim to experience personally with those I meet along the way: a chance for both worlds to experience travel, together, hence 'Both Worlds Travel'.

Yet on my recent trip to Croatia, I missed the mark.

But first, how I ended up in Croatia is a story of its own. I’ll be brief(ish).

As a woman running a successful, US-based luxury travel agency and mother to two teenagers, life is demanding, time is short, and I often feel I’m a lackluster, muted version of the dynamic woman I once was. While my successes are wonderful, I know I can be better, do more, and leave a brighter, more meaningful, and indelible mark by prioritizing self-care and rekindling my ambitious go-getter nature. I knew I was not alone; other powerhouse women were (and are) in the same boat. We simply need a nudge to right the ship.

Enter my passion project: Ambitious Women Travel, a way for me to bring vibrant, intentional women together, to help them unplug from life’s demands and fuel the flames of their ambitions so they could return home and crush their goals – and maybe get a taste of who they used to be before everything else got in the way.

My first trip offering had to be a good one. I needed a destination that would not just appeal to these women but convince them that taking 8+ days away from work and family wasn’t just a good idea, it was a necessity.

Enter a small ship ‘yachting experience’ in Croatia from Dubrovnik to Split with many staggeringly beautiful stops along the way. This was the perfect trip for my group, and we were all in, except… I lost focus on my unquenchable curiosity and voracious hunger for connection amidst all the working parts of planning a hosted group journey.

I went in without educating myself on Croatia’s complex and rich history.

I forgot to be curious.

In doing so, I missed out on opportunities to connect more deeply with the locals and the cultural nuances that make Croatia so dynamic. I missed out on chances to truly experience all that Croatia has to offer. By not preparing myself to appreciate Croatia’s unique cultural identity, I realized I wasn’t fully present in the experience. It was a humbling reminder that, even as a travel professional, there’s always more to learn—and that every destination, especially one as historically layered as Croatia, deserves the respect of being understood before being explored.

Here are the things I wish I had taken the time to think about before going to Croatia.

A Condensed History of Croatia

Croatia’s history is long and complex, shaped by its geographical position between Central Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Balkans. Over the centuries, it has been ruled by various powers, including the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, and the Ottoman Empire. In the Middle Ages, Croatia formed a union with Hungary and later fell under Habsburg rule as part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. After World War I, it became part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia and remained in communist Yugoslavia until declaring independence in 1991, sparking the Croatian War of Independence. Since achieving sovereignty, Croatia has focused on rebuilding its economy, infrastructure, and identity, and in 2013, it became the newest member of the European Union.

What's new since EU?

Since joining the European Union, Croatia has undergone significant economic, social, and infrastructural transformations. EU membership has opened up new markets and investment opportunities, resulting in improved infrastructure, especially in transport and (yes!) tourism. The economy has become more integrated into the European single market, attracting foreign investments and reducing unemployment. Politically, Croatia has had a voice in shaping EU policies while benefiting from funding for development projects. Despite these shifts, Croatia has maintained its strong national identity and cultural heritage, blending modernity with tradition.

Cultural exchange is there for those who seek it.

Despite the changes brought by EU membership and modernization, much of Croatia’s cultural values and traditions remain deeply rooted. What that means for curiosity-driven travelers is an opportunity to get to know someone whose life experiences are ripe with depth and perspective. The many layers of Croatia’s learned and shared culture and customs are fascinating, and

Croatia is an untouched gem. I was not curious enough.

Americans have set ways when it comes to bucket list destinations, and we remain one of the top contributors to global travel spending. Many popular destinations adapt to meet the preferences, tastes, and demands of the US market shaping local tourism experiences to be more aligned with American expectations and comforts.

Croatia has yet to dull down its natural edges to appease the mass market American tourists’ indiscriminate palate, leaving its character and soul intact. It’s a spectacularly wonderful gift for travelers who are ready for it.

I might not have fully prepared myself for it, but Croatia’s heart and soul were unwaveringly present. The soul-crushing beauty of Croatia, the richness and depth of her people, and the realization that I squandered an opportunity to go deeper resulted in unfathomable regret as I flew home, watching the sun rise over the heart of the Dalmatian Coast.

Go there, stay curious.

In a world where so much is readily packaged and presented for us, the true magic of travel comes when we step out of that comfort zone and embrace curiosity. It's not just about seeing new places but about connecting deeply—with the people, the culture, and even ourselves. I learned the hard way that missing out on this connection can lead to regret. But for those of us who seek growth and understanding, there's always a way forward.

So, I encourage you: Be curious. Ask questions. Engage with intention.

Whether you're planning your next trip or reflecting on past ones, commit to traveling in a meaningful way. There’s a bigger world out there waiting to be discovered—and it’s never too late to start. I’m here and ready to help you discover the enriching, transformative power of travel in Croatia. Go there.

Ways To Connect

1. Join my private Facebook Group exclusive to Both Worlds Travelers

2. Follow me on Facebook

3. Connect on LinkedIn

About Us

Both Worlds Travel is a boutique Travel Agency based in Raleigh, North Carolina USA that provides thoughtfully curated, highly elevated travel experiences for affluent travelers. Owner Angie Brandt is an expert at crafting tailor-made itineraries and specializes in small ship cruises and adventure travel.