Travel Creators Share Top 2024 Adventures & Must-Visit Destinations for 2025

Discover unforgettable travel stories and bucket-list destinations as Thatch travel creators reflect on their favorite trips of 2024 and the adventures they’re planning for 2025. Get inspired for your next getaway with expert insights and unique travel experiences.

Liv Coning

Marketing Lead

Travel Creators Share Top 2024 Adventures & Must-Visit Destinations for 2025

Dec 13 2024

We recently caught up with some of our Thatch travel creators to hear about their favorite travel destinations of 2024 and their most anticipated trips for 2025.

From Greek island hopping to shark diving in Hawaii (yes, really!), these top destinations and travel guides showcase the incredible adventures our creators experienced. Read on to get inspired for your own 2025 travel plans!

Travel creators share their best trip of 2024 and most anticipated trip of 2025:

Sophie Minchilli

Sophie Minchilli is a Rome native who has spent her entire life in the vibrant Italian capital. Around a decade ago, she launched a successful family venture with her mother Elizabeth, offering immersive week-long food tours throughout Italy.

When not guiding visitors across the country, Sophie is based in Rome where she conducts local food tours and continuously explores the city's diverse culinary scene. She shares her extensive knowledge of Italian cuisine and culture through her expertly curated tours and travel guides.

Favorite trip of 2024

My favorite trip in 2024 was this summer to 3 Greek Islands: Naxos, Koufonissi and Amorgos. Nothing beats a Greek summer, and I just love the feeling of life on a small island surrounded by crystal clear blue water, delicious Greek salads and friendly locals. I always try and pick a new island to explore each year, so we'll see what summer 2025 has in store!

Most anticipated trip of 2025

I am starting 2025 with a trip to Guatemala. I am beyond excited since it will be my first time traveling there and know almost nothing about what seems like a truly magical destination. I have already saved a few Thatch guides and am excited to eat, explore and make new friends

Subscribe to Sophie on Thatch.

Elizabeth Palumbi

Elizabeth Palumbi is a New York City-based meteorologist who embraces a digital nomad lifestyle for parts of the year. With experience studying abroad in Florence and being featured in major publications like Reuters and Bloomberg, she has built an impressive travel portfolio spanning over 30 states and 20 countries. Elizabeth is particularly passionate about empowering solo female travelers and sharing her global adventures.

Favorite trip of 2024

2024 was a year of incredible adventures, but nothing quite compared to my time in Banff and Jasper National Parks. The breathtaking mountain landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and abundant wildlife created an unforgettable experience. Hiking through the valleys, kayaking on serene lakes, and stargazing under the vast night sky were highlights of my trip, especially the drive from Banff to Jasper on the Icefields Parkway – the most stunning drive I've ever seen. I am already trying to plan to go back in 2025.

Most anticipated trip of 2025

As for 2025, I'm eagerly anticipating a trip to Iceland. The allure of its otherworldly landscapes, from the Golden Circle to the Northern Lights, has been on my bucket list for almost a decade. I can't wait to explore glaciers, volcanoes, and geothermal wonders, all while immersing myself in Icelandic culture. The peace and serenity of the country is incredibly appealing to me.

Subscribe to Elizabeth on Thatch.

Caity Zagar

Caity Zagar is a Canadian travel enthusiast who has been exploring the world consistently since 2016. With experience living abroad as both a teacher in London and a nanny in France for a combined three years, she has developed extensive knowledge of international travel and living overseas. Caity's passion for helping others experience meaningful travel has led her to share her expertise in travel planning, budgeting, and creating authentic experiences abroad.

Quiraing - Isle of Skye, Isle of Skye, Scotland

Favorite trip of 2024

2024 was a big year of re-visiting old favorites - and one of my all-time favorites still continues to be Scotland. This year, I road-tripped around Scotland for a second time, showing my family some of my go-to favorite spots and discovering new ones along the way. One of my newest finds was a Scottish farm and tea house where you could meet, feed, and pet highland cows! I will always be in love with the stunning highlands, Edinburgh’s historic vibes, and the loveable hairy coos - and this trip all of these things combined!

On top of that, this time, with a little more time to work with, I really got to know the Cairngorms National Park region, a region I feel is highly underrated in Scotland! Never underestimate revisiting places you’ve already been to - there is so much more to be found beyond a quick visit!

Most anticipated trip of 2025

Although my 2025 travel plans are still in the works, I’d love to road trip around Iceland or visit any of the Nordic countries! The Nordic countries are high on my bucket list, whether it be Finland, Norway, Iceland, or Sweden, and visiting at least one of them this upcoming year would be incredible! Whether it be to hike the fjords, see the dramatic waterfalls, or visit ancient volcanoes, there are so many things I’d love to experience! The natural beauty in these countries is beyond compare, no matter the season, so I hope 2025 is the year we head up north!

Subscribe to Caity on Thatch.

Kristen Pennison

Kristen is a self-taught creator who left her previous career to pursue content creation full-time. As a travel creator, she specializes in videography, photography, and user-generated content (UGC). Her work spans travel & tourism, products, events, and rebranding projects. Through her co-owned media production company, Kristen collaborates with global brands to craft their stories.

Favorite trip of 2024

My favorite destination in 2024 has to be Oʻahu! I’ve been lucky enough to visit a few times, and it never gets old. The island has a little bit of everything whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, traveling with family, or solo. The year-round warm weather is a dream, and I swear the combo of sunshine, island vibes, açai bowls, and poke could add years to your life (it’s my personal theory, anyway!).

One of the most unforgettable experiences I’ve ever had was swimming with sharks on the North Shore without a cage! The tour is run by marine biologists, which means you not only get an adrenaline rush but also learn so much about these incredible creatures while supporting shark conservation. Between the gorgeous beaches, hikes, and the culture, Oʻahu feels like a place I could go back to over and over and still find something new to love!

Most anticipated trip of 2025

For 2025, I’m keeping my travel plans spontaneous and just seeing where the year takes me! I’ve realized I want to go everywhere, so unless it’s for work or requires advanced planning, I’m leaving space to let the destinations choose me. That said, Africa has been calling my name, and I have a strong feeling this is the year I’ll finally make it there (with Cape Town and Morocco at the top of my wish list)! Cape Town caught my attention with its stunning beaches, mountains, and of course the penguin beach we all know from Instagram. Morocco seems to have such a vibrant culture, and I’m drawn to its colorful markets and artistic energy! I’d be grateful to experience either (or both!) in 2025(:

Subscribe to Kristen on Thatch.

Mercedes Thomas Diaz-Pallares

Born in Ecuador and having spent her formative years between Spain and China, Mercedes developed a deep appreciation for diverse cultures from an early age. Her adventurous spirit led her to Egypt, where she became a certified scuba diver. Currently based in Berlin, Mercedes leverages her multicultural experiences to help travelers create authentic, meaningful experiences and forge deep connections with local cultures.

Favorite trip of 2024

Santorini stole my heart on my very first trip to Greece! (End of May, beginning of June 2024). We found this charming villa nestled in the serene southern part of the island. It was the perfect escape—quiet and intimate, yet just a stone’s throw away from a plethora of exquisite restaurants and exciting activities. The food was absolutely divine, and the locals were incredibly warm and welcoming, making every moment feel special. It truly felt like a perfect home away from home—a magical experience I’ll never forget!

Most anticipated trip of 2025

I’m gearing up for an exciting trip to Egypt this January! It's been three years since I moved to Berlin, and I can hardly believe it's my first visit back to Cairo after living there for five incredible years. I can’t wait to reconnect with the vibrant capital, but I’m also looking forward to exploring the southern gems like Luxor, Aswan, and Marsa Alam. Remarkably, I’ve never had the chance to visit the stunning temple areas, so that’s definitely on my list!

I'm especially eager to dive back into the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea in Marsa Alam. I’ve had some unforgettable scuba diving experiences there in the past, and I can't wait to soak it all in once again! This trip promises to be a memorable adventure!

Subscribe to Mercedes on Thatch.

Antje Hansow

Antje Hansow, who relocated from Germany to Korea in 2021, has established herself as a prominent travel expert in Seoul through her "Next Stop: Korea" brand. As a Seoul resident, she serves as a knowledgeable guide for visitors and followers, offering curated itineraries and insider tips for both popular attractions and hidden gems. While Seoul is her home base, Antje has explored over 40 locations across Korea, from the beaches of Busan to the cultural hub of Jeonju, and continues to share her discoveries with her growing community.

Favorite trip of 2024

Jeju Island in the South of South Korea, stole my heart in 2024. Living in Korea allows me to explore this beautiful country a lot, but Jeju stood out as a place I couldn’t get enough of - I visited three times this year! Each trip revealed something new and exciting: breathtaking natural landscapes like Seongsan Ilchulbong and Hallasan Mountain, unique local attractions like traditional markets or Folk Village, and fun activities like tangerine picking at a charming farm. Whether hiking through lush trails, strolling along the volcanic beaches, watching breathtaking waterfalls, learning more about the unique female diver's community or enjoying Jeju’s famous black pork, the island feels like an endless treasure trove of experiences. It just keeps calling me back!

Most anticipated trip of 2025

In 2025, I’m eagerly looking forward to a special family trip to Germany. It will be my first time introducing my husband’s Korean family to my home country, and I can’t wait to share the places and traditions that shaped me. From visiting my hometown Leipzig to exploring iconic German landmarks in Berlin and Munich, this trip will be a meaningful cultural exchange and a chance to create lasting memories with both sides of our family.

Subscribe to Antje on Thatch.

Champi Alvarez

Champi is a Mexican creator and traveler based in the picturesque town of San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. Passionate about exploring the world, celebrating her love for Mexico, and practicing mindfulness, Champi shares her journey and insights on her Instagram page, @champitravels. Through her content, she inspires her audience with vibrant travel stories, mindful living tips, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of Mexico.

Favorite trip of 2024

My favorite destinations in 2024 were Celestún, for its breathtaking flamingo colonies and migration, and the surrounding towns in the Yucatán. Witnessing this incredible wildlife phenomenon was unforgettable and visiting this region had been high on my bucket list. I also visited the monarch butterfly reserves in central Mexico, which was a dream come true. I had experienced them as a kid so going back it was equally as magical. Experiencing these two natural wonders left me in awe of Mexico's biodiversity and its efforts to protect these delicate ecosystems.

Most anticipated trip of 2025

Looking ahead to 2025, I’m most excited about visiting Bacalar for the first time, known for its stunning “Lagoon of Seven Colors,” and heading to El Chepe train journey through the Copper Canyon that also has many indigenous communities and I've been looking forward to this experience for a long time. Both destinations promise a mix of adventure and beauty, and I can't wait to immerse myself in their unique landscapes. Very excited to explore more of my country!

Subscribe to Champi on Thatch.

Lauren Alboini

At 17, Lauren Alboini packed her bags and left everything familiar in her hometown of Toronto to move to Switzerland. That transformative year sparked a profound shift in her life, shaping her outlook and perspective. Since then, the travel bug has never left. With nearly 50 countries visited, four countries lived in, and 20 years of adventures, lessons, and insights, Lauren is now dedicated to channeling her wealth of experience into helping others plan their travels.

Favorite trip of 2024

Australia! I spent a fantastic two weeks there in September soaking up some sun and embracing the incredible coastal lifestyle with my boyfriend and his family. From a few days of waterfront strolls, harbour views and exceptional food in Sydney, to one week of sunrise walks, beaches and dolphin sightings up in Sunshine Coast, and capping it off with a wholesome wine country weekend in Hunter Valley - it was such a brilliant mix.

Most anticipated trip of 2025

The French Alps! It's the only trip I have booked at the moment - but it's my favourite one to start a new year on. Breathing in that fresh winter air, gliding down the slopes, lounging in the sun and watching other skiers and boarders go by, enjoying the mountain and alpine village views, dipping into a sauna or hot tub at the end of a full day out, being in the thick of the buzz and vibes at an apres, indulging in a cheeky fondue...it's just so good! And doing this all with good friends? The best.

Subscribe to Lauren on Thatch.

Hilary Matson

Hilary Matson is an American living in Paris since 2016, passionately sharing her Paris and France recommendations to help others fall in love with the city and country as much as she has. With a deep knowledge of France—having explored more than most locals—Hilary offers insights and tips for nearly any type of adventure. Beyond her work on Thatch, Hilary runs Yugen Earthside, a booking platform for responsible package trips primarily catering to mature American travelers.

Favorite trip of 2024

My favorite destination in 2024 was Mexico - specifically the state of Jalisco. I'd been to touristy areas like Cancun and Cabo before, so staying in the city of Guadalajara during the low season was a great chance of pace and a perfect home base for a more immersive experience. I heard much more Spanish than English, saw live mariachi music, and enjoyed special authentic experiences. A private tour of a small, family-run distillery in Tequila was a highlight, as was a traditional wood painting workshop in the artisan town of Tlaquepaque. Best of all though was a 3-course cooking class with a local Mexican lady - the dishes were fantastic and we got to leave with the recipes to try at home! If you've only seen the resort side of Mexico, I urge you to return and explore the culture and gastronomy!

Most anticipated trip of 2025

In 2025, I'm most excited to travel to Africa (yes, I know it's a continent). I have two trips in the works, both revolving around meeting the local partners whose trips are featured on my company's package trip platform, Yugen Earthside. I can't wait to discover some of their amazing, sustainable experiences first-hand! In the spring, I'll visit South Africa and Kenya to enjoy locally inspired and nature-based activities like visiting women-owned wineries in the Cape Winelands and going on a nature walk with giraffes. In the fall, I'll head back to Tanzania to climb Kilimanjaro (one of Yugen Earthside's best-selling trips) and then skip over to Ethiopia for a coffee tour and some birdwatching. I love working in the travel industry!

Subscribe to Hilary's on Thatch.

Looking Ahead: Travel Trends for 2025

Looking at our creators' 2025 plans, we see two main trends: a focus on natural wonders (like Iceland and Africa) and a desire for authentic cultural experiences (such as Morocco's markets and Korea's local spots).

Travelers are also taking more time to explore places deeply - whether returning to favorite destinations or staying longer to really experience the local culture.

Ready to start planning your own adventure? Create your free Thatch account to connect with our community of travel creators, access their personalized guides, and craft your perfect itinerary with expert recommendations.

Our creators' guides offer insider tips, hidden gems, and authentic experiences that go beyond typical tourist attractions. Let their expertise inspire and guide you as you plan your next unforgettable journey.

What is Thatch?

Thatch is a travel platform that connects travelers with expert travel creators who share authentic, curated travel guides and planning services. Our creators are passionate travelers who explore destinations deeply and share their insider knowledge to help others plan meaningful trips. Through Thatch, travelers can access personalized travel advice and destination expertise from our community of experienced creators.

How to become a Thatch travel creator

Becoming a Thatch travel creator is an exciting way to share your travel expertise and help others plan amazing trips.

To become a Thatch creator, simply visit our seller application page.

Once you register to sell, you can create your own Travel Shop and use our block-style editor to design and sell digital products like travel guides, maps, itineraries, tours, consultation, custom planning services, and more

You'll get access to our Seller 101 course that walks you through creating engaging travel guides and trip planning services and making the most of our platform.

Plan your next trip

with Thatch

With instant access to local expert knowledge in 80+ countries, Thatch makes it easy to plan unique, high-quality trips stress-free.

Get paid to share your

travel knowledge

Thatch makes it easy for thousands of travel creators in 80+ countries to organize and monetize their travel knowledge.