We visited stunning places in 2024, but these are the 5 destinations we would repeat

If there’s one thing the USA TODAY Travel team loves more than exploring incredible destinations, it’s sharing them with our readers. This past year, our team packed their bags (and more than a few snacks) to fly, sail and even camp at some of the most special places on the planet. From serene coastal escapes to vibrant cities that pulse with life, 2024 was a year of adventure – and we’re ready to share our favorite spots that you should add to your 2025 travel list.

These aren’t just your run-of-the-mill recommendations. We’re talking about five destinations that wowed us with their charm, food, culture, and, yes, their Instagram-worthy views.

So, where should you travel next? Here are the five destinations that stuck with us in 2024 and promise to bring the same magic – and maybe a little more – in 2025.

Do this 'countrynent' justice:  Eastern Australia

Visiting Australia once doesn’t do it justice. There are so many impressive and distinct regions to explore that my visit to Tasmania left me wanting more – even if it does mean another 14-hour flight.

After a beautiful visit to Tasmania, Australia’s Gold Coast kept calling to me. While Tasmania enchants with its pristine wilderness, the Gold Coast offers a sun-soaked contrast with its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife and even amusement parks.

The Gold Coast’s coastline is ideal for beach lovers. The laid-back beach culture invites you to soak up the sun, ride world-class waves, or take a tranquil stroll at sunset.

Where Tasmania dazzles with its national parks, the Gold Coast has Warner Bros. Movie World and Dreamworld. But don’t worry, if you want that classic connection to Australia’s flora and fauna, the hinterlands are accessible and there are a few sanctuaries to visit. Travelers can explore the lush rainforests of Lamington and Springbrook National Parks, which are filled with waterfalls, hiking trails, and native wildlife. Glow Worm Caves and the Natural Bridge are places that seem to echo the wonder of Tasmania’s natural beauty — but with a tropical flair.

You won’t go hungry. There is a bustling culinary scene — teeming with fresh seafood, rooftop bars and cuisine from all over the world.

Having experienced Tasmania’s charm, the Gold Coast is my next stop in Eastern Australia — probably during the U.S. winter. Blending Australia’s iconic coastal vibe with diverse attractions and warm weather, it’s the perfect follow-up trip.

Want to learn more? Here's the story I wrote after my visit: No devil here. Australia's Tasmania is more like heaven. What travelers should know.

— Josh Rivera, Travel Editor

European feel without the long flight: Montreal, Canada

Montreal snuck up on me. I always wanted to visit the Canadian city at some point but hadn’t made it a priority – it's close to the U.S. and I figured I’d make it there eventually.

After finally going for the first time this past spring, I now wish I’d visited years ago. Not only does its historic district offer a European feel without the long-haul flight, but it also has a wealth of cultural institutions, a vibrant culinary scene, and a thriving cruise port offering small-ship adventures.

I took a trip there in late May and found mild weather ideal for exploring on foot or by public transit – both of which are easy in the pedestrian-friendly city. Along with landmarks like the Gothic Revival Notre-Dame Basilica, tourists should make time to visit local businesses, which give insight into the city’s distinct personality.

I spent four days ducking into restaurants and coffee shops and more, sampling French food, delicious pastries and carefully crafted espresso drinks. I even tried locally-made gin at Cirka Distilleries (order the Pomelo liqueur, made using pomelos and grapefruits). In the business and commercial district, Laurier West Avenue, owners greeted customers at their shops.

As international travel goes, Montreal felt easy. It’s a relatively short drive or flight from many parts of the U.S. And while French is the official language in Quebec, everyone I met spoke English as well.

There were so many parts of the city and attractions I didn’t get to see during my short trip. Luckily, it’s just a few hours away.

Want to learn more? Here's the story I wrote after my visit: You don't have to go far: Montreal has European flair with a personality all its own

— Nathan Diller, Cruises Reporter

So much to see, so little time: Japan

Every few days since May, I've said aloud: "I want to go back to Japan."

My three days there were not nearly enough for Tokyo, much less the rest of the country. I spent most of my time at Tokyo Disney Resort, a bucket-list destination itself for theme park fans like me and home to the stunning new land, Fantasy Springs. I could've easily spent a week visiting theme parks alone, including places like Universal Studios Japan in Osaka, Sanrio Puroland in Tama, and Ghibli Park in Nagakute. But there is so much more to see, from bustling cities with the highest technology to tranquil countryside that looks frozen in time.

The wide array of public transportation options makes getting anywhere is efficient, though not always easy. I got lost trying to connect between different subway systems separated by several city blocks in Tokyo, but what followed was emblematic of Japanese courtesy: Stopping to ask for directions, a businessman who wasn't quite sure of where to go accidentally sent me the wrong way. As soon as he realized his mistake, he chased me down to steer me in the right direction. He could have easily kept going with his day, but like everyone I met, he was so kind.

And the food was so good. I'm still dreaming of all the myriad convenience stores, vending machines, and food stall treats that are as tasty as they are cheap. Everything is made with pride and care, even fast food. On the next trip, I want to try more sit-down meals, including wagyu steak omakase. I can't wait to go back.

Want to learn more? Here's the story I wrote after my visit: Why Disney fans will travel all the way to Japan for Tokyo Disneyland, DisneySea

— Eve Chen, Parks Reporter

A hidden gem to the North: British Columbia

The Okanagan Valley in British Columbia isn’t a place that’s on many Americans’ travel radars, but it’s worth a visit and isn’t overly hard to get to.

British Columbia's interior is its historic fruit-growing region, which means it’s a great place for wine tasting of vintages you can’t easily get on this side of the border. It’s also an outdoor lovers’ paradise, with hiking and biking trails, lake activities in the summer and ski resorts nearby in the winter. There’s also a strong farm-to-table food scene and lodging at many price points.

If it hadn’t been for work, I probably never would have visited the Okanagan, and now I can’t wait to go back.

As the region recovers from wildfires and a few recent harsh winters, the vineyards there have a chance to innovate with their crops, and I’d be especially excited to return to see what their new, more experimental wines taste like. Since I returned, I’ve told almost all my friends and family that they should check it out for at least a long weekend if they’re looking for a getaway.

Want to learn more? Here's the story I wrote after my visit: Make some pour decisions: You should visit British Columbia on your next wine-tasting trip 

— Zach Wichter, Air Travel Reporter

It's a classic bucket-list item for a reason: Fiji

Fiji is one of those dreamy, far-off destinations on everyone’s bucket list – and after visiting in June, I can confirm it totally lives up to the hype. (It’s also not that bad to get there, you can take a direct flight from Los Angeles.) It now lives on my list of destinations I’m eager to return to.

It’s a place that lets its rich culture and natural beauty speak for themselves. Not only does Fiji have some of the most picturesque beaches I’ve ever seen – which, for someone who lives in Hawaii, is saying something – but there are also ample opportunities for adventure. I dove with manta rays in the daytime and reef sharks at night, plus I surfed the famous Cloudbreak wave as the sky turned pink during sunset. Those are some of my favorite travel memories ever.

Fiji is also working hard to become a sustainable destination, which is important for an island nation that is especially vulnerable to climate change. Travelers can help support Fiji by doing activities like volunteering with local nonprofits to conserve coral reefs or spending time in local villages to learn more about Fijian culture up close.

If I know someone who just briefly mentions Fiji – even if it’s because they watch “Survivor” – I urge them to make a trip happen. And since it has a sub-tropical climate, you can go at any time of year.

Want to learn more? Here's the story I wrote after my visit: I saw Fiji's magic myself. Here's how travelers can preserve the splendor for everyone.

— Kathleen Wong, Travel Reporter

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: USA TODAY Travel's top destinations to re-visit in 2025