As I reflect on 2024, these are the key observations and learnings I have picked up:
1. Prioritising “Real” Experiences
Seek both iconic landmarks and hidden treasures. Sure, visiting iconic places like the Acropolis or Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing is a must, but it is so for 1,000,000 other people. Be prepared for that and track down opportunities that might not be featured in the top ten visit spots on Instagram. Discovering hidden gems like Colombia’s San Antonio Church or Croatia’s Maksimir Park added depth and richness to my journeys. My goal is to see a place as close to how a local might. This might mean less of a focus on ticking off a bucket list of items and more on discovering the real essence of a place.
2. Be Flexible with Travel Plans
In 2024, I sat next to somebody who had planned just three hours between landing and the start of a wedding he was flying to. Unfortunately, a five-hour delay had derailed his plans. Travel disruptions are increasingly inevitable, so I avoid tight connections, build in ample time for stopovers, aim to arrive a day in advance and have contingency plans. TripIt and Travelcase give me to receive real-time updates about delays or changes.
3. Plan, Plan, Plan.
I plan trips strategically for several purposes:
Firstly, to find the best value hotels and fares. This is a mix of art and science! I rely on Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Matrix ITA to uncover hidden gems—alternative routes, dates, or destinations that drastically cut costs. For example, I saved $2,000 on a business class fare by flying into Geneva instead of Rome for a European trip. Another time, flying from Oslo to the USA was half the price of departing from Helsinki, so I added a short hop to Oslo for significant savings. Similarly, I routed through Hong Kong from Thailand to Japan, instead of direct, securing a business class ticket for less than the cost of economy (albiet) for a slightly longer journey! Flying one day before or after my original plan saved e a few thousand dollars over the course of the year. Staying with an Eiffel Tower view is gorgeous but pricey. Exploring unconventional solutions pays off!
Secondly, to maximise my status so I can enjoy perks like priority boarding, priority check in and lounge access. Last year, I maintained One World Emerald and Virgin Australia Platinum status, while also gaining SkyTeam Elite Plus. If I don’t gain useful points or status from a flight, I consider it a waste!
Thirdly, I plan not to waste time. When I stride off the aeroplane at Copenhagen airport, I know where to get my fare card for the metro, which stop I am going to. I already know how to walk to my Airbnb. I know where my nearest supermarket is and I haven’t chosen an Airbnb three kilometres from the metro (uphill)!
3. Pack Light—Travel Smart
I travelled without checked luggage for 93 of my 97 flights this year. This has been my usual practice for several years now. My goal is to get everything I need for a trip into carry on.
No time wasted at baggage claim, no stress over lost luggage, and the flexibility to easily change flights.
Travelling light also saves hours at check-in counters and makes exploring large cities much more convenient.
5. Please, please, please enjoy Local Food
I met a western woman in Thailand who had flown there with a suitcase of granola bars. I kid you not. She told me earnestly that she knew she would not like Thai food so had brought her own. Lets forget that Thai food is rated some of the best in the world! Tourists in Japan earnestly told me they had only eaten McDonalds for a week because “you can’t trust the food”. I would argue if you are not prepared to try the local cuisine, don’t leave home. Food is at the heart of every culture. Whether diving into hawker markets in Singapore, savouring Mexico City’s street food, or enjoying schnitzel in Vienna, sampling local flavours is a deep joy of travel for me. Even visiting supermarkets in cities like Paris, Santiago, Zagreb reveals fascinating insights into everyday life and culinary traditions.
6. Plan for a Mix of Relaxation and Adventure
Travel is more stressful than it used to be. My solution is to balance intense sightseeing with tranquil escapes. For every bustling city like Medellín or Tokyo, I carve out time for serene spots like Lake Balaton or Naxos to recharge and reflect. I immerse myself in nature whenever possible—in 2024 that included enjoying Panama’s beaches, or exploring city parks. Reconnecting with the outdoors adds a refreshing dimension to your travels. One rule I have is giving myself one complete day off every week of active travel: no agenda, a sleep-in and a full day of relaxation.
7. Travel Insurance is Still Non-Negotiable
Unexpected disruptions, medical emergencies, or lost belongings can turn a dream trip into a nightmare. Invest in comprehensive travel insurance that covers cancellations, delays, and emergencies. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind, ensuring that you’re protected no matter where your adventures take you.
What are your tips for 2025?
Fabulous advice! My husband and I both believe that you need to go to places where locals are and eat the indigenous cuisine to better understand a culture. Otherwise, stay home. In Belize, there are expats who want US but with a Caribbean backdrop. Why go? Talk to people! This has gotten us to experience a university disco in Xian, gorgeous food in Hong Kong and amazing things in France, Roma and many other places. You come home with not only new memories, but new friends.