2025 wasn’t just a year of travel; it was a relentless pursuit of the extraordinary. A craving for experiences that pushed boundaries, demanded attention, and left an indelible mark on the soul. It was a year defined by a growing hunger for the wild, the unexpected, and the profoundly beautiful.
This year saw me cross into seven new countries – Mauritius, Madagascar, Barbados, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, St. Lucia, and Dominica – bringing my total to 96. The century mark, once a distant goal, now feels within reach, a thrilling prospect fueling my wanderlust.
But numbers only tell a fraction of the story. The true measure of a year’s travels lies in the moments that steal your breath, the encounters that reshape your perspective, and the destinations that linger long after you’ve returned home. And in 2025, Madagascar delivered all of that and more.
Madagascar wasn’t simply a trip; it was an immersion into a world untamed. More beautiful, more challenging, more surprising than I could have ever imagined. It’s a place that strips away comfort and forces you to confront the raw, unfiltered beauty of nature. It’s not for the faint of heart.
Imagine hiking across a landscape of razor-sharp limestone formations, secured by a harness. Picture yourself swimming alongside ancient sea turtles, and connecting with villagers whose smiles transcend language barriers. Envision sunsets painting the iconic baobab trees in fiery hues. Madagascar is a sanctuary for those seeking authentic adventure, a place largely untouched by the homogenizing forces of mass tourism.
Knowing the challenges, I joined a group trip with Rock My Adventure. It was a brilliant decision. They handled the complexities, allowing me to fully embrace the experience. Even a brush with political unrest – tear gas, airport closures, and a looming military coup – couldn’t diminish the magic. It felt like a return to my backpacking roots, a reconnection with a younger, more fearless version of myself.
Beyond Madagascar, Crete captivated me after four decades of anticipation. This island isn’t just a destination; it’s a complete experience. Stunning beaches, lush forests, a vibrant city in Chania, challenging gorges, and a cuisine that rivals the best of Greece. But it was the warmth and genuine hospitality of the Cretan people that truly resonated.
The Grenadines, a string of idyllic islands in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, offered a different kind of escape. These aren’t islands of sprawling resorts, but havens of tranquility. Quiet beaches, local rum shacks, and a pace of life that encourages you to simply *be*. It’s a place to disconnect, to breathe, and to rediscover the simple pleasures.
Curaçao, with its Dutch colonial architecture and vibrant blue waters, surprised me with its unique charm. It felt less like a tourist trap and more like a living, breathing community. Willemstad’s colorful buildings provided a stunning backdrop, and the beaches offered a welcome respite from the everyday.
Réunion Island, a French gem in the Indian Ocean, defied expectations at every turn. Volcanic landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and a sense of pristine beauty that left me speechless. The driving was effortless, the scenery breathtaking, and the overall experience utterly unforgettable.
A quiet birthday escape to the High Tatras in Slovakia offered a different kind of magic. Hiking amidst the craggy peaks, indulging in spa treatments, and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere was the perfect antidote to a hectic year. It was a reminder that sometimes, the greatest adventures are found in the simplest of settings.
St. Lucia, long on my dream list, lived up to the hype. The iconic Pitons, rising majestically from the turquoise waters, were even more stunning in person. A brief visit only fueled my desire to return and explore this Caribbean paradise further.
And finally, a return to Warsaw, Poland, revealed a city transformed. While my first impression was lukewarm, a second visit, spurred by a concert and a commitment to daily exploration, unveiled a dynamic and evolving metropolis. It’s a city with a complex history, a vibrant culture, and a surprisingly delicious food scene.
As I look ahead to 2026, the horizon is filled with exciting possibilities. A journey to Egypt with a friend, a pilgrimage to witness the cheese-rolling festival in England, a family reunion in Massachusetts, and a grand African adventure to Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe await. The pursuit of the extraordinary continues, and I can’t wait to see where it leads.
