Kathmandu airport is a location where travel aspirations come to an unexpected halt. Occasionally, a fortunate traveller might stumble upon something extraordinary. However, you have to ultimately depart and return to reality. For numerous individuals who experience the thrill of life at high altitudes in Nepal, that rude awakening occurs as they join the endless, sluggish lines at the capital’s inadequate airport. But at least you have the opportunity to meet other travellers.
David and Noah, two young men from Salzburg, have been diligently working for three years to afford themselves two years of continuous exploration. They were scheduled to reunite with family from Austria somewhere in Southeast Asia for Christmas. Undoubtedly, that meeting transpired as they have spent considerable time contemplating the adventure of their lifetimes.
If you share a similar perspective on maximizing the experience of travel, exploring with a companion can be incredibly fulfilling. Naturally, however, your selection of destinations and experiences will differ from mine. David and Noah acknowledge this by each having three “wild cards”: a specific location that the other commits to visiting. Noah was eager to dive in Egypt’s Red Sea, so they did; David is intent on visiting Easter Island, even though it will significantly impact their travel finances.
This got me thinking: we should all designate our wild cards, and the beginning of a new year is a perfect moment to determine your trip trio for 2025. If you have a partner, you can disclose your selections and start planning on New Year’s Day. And if you travel solo, make them the three wandering resolutions that you are determined to complete by year-end.
I have not yet decided on my trio, but perhaps it would be beneficial for me to suggest some of the findings I have encountered this past year – six in total, in case you wish to divide them.
Tynemouth
The name indicates the location: where the river flowing through Newcastle reaches the North Sea. The landscape is breathtaking, highlighted by a rugged, crumbling castle that marks the end of a charming town filled with delightful dining spots. None is more satisfying than Riley’s Fish Shack, located on the sand with deckchair seating.
Vermont
Bernie Sanders’ home state is a realm apart from America gearing up for Trump’s resurgence. Gentle hills, tranquil lakes, and well-informed locals who have time to converse.
Bassano del Grappa to Trento by train
Include this stunning trek through Italy’s Sud Tirol in your list of remarkable rail journeys. You’ll enjoy breathtaking mountain vistas, and the towns at each terminus are magnificent.
Gaspe peninsula
The extension at the eastern end of Quebec boasts striking beauty, a shoreline that sparkles, and bustling ports that provide the freshest seafood.
St Louis, Missouri
Do you enjoy vintage transportation experiences? You must experience the intriguing capsules that take you to the peak of the Gateway Arch. They are reminiscent of 1960s science fiction. Then be astonished by the elegance of the City Library and the warmth of the Campbell House.
Nepal
Stunning mountains. Rich culture. Wonderful people. Any one of these would be enough to entice me – the Himalayan nation offers all three.
Simon Calder, also known as The Man Who Pays His Way, has been writing about travel for The Independent since 1994. In his weekly commentary column, he delves into a significant travel topic – and what it signifies for you.