New flights to refresh holiday choices in 2025 – The Irish News

In an age when travelers are short on time, new air routes are putting destinations on the map like never before.

While popular and well-known destinations continue to suffer from the burden of overtourism, many new options still remain relatively unknown.

So, if you’re looking for inspiration for your vacation in 2025, check out these new itineraries.

Ideal for getting off the beaten track: Sierra Leone

Despite many links to Britain – including a common language – the beach-fringed West African country has proven difficult and expensive to reach in recent years. As part of a new tourism strategy, the government helped create the new national airline Air Sierra Leone, with direct flights from Gatwick to the capital Freetown on December 2. The golden sands and a choice of 19 islands are a good option for soaking up the winter sun. researchers, while wildlife lovers can look for several species of primates on the inland river island of Tiwai.

Best for Adventure: Ghana

Another English-speaking West African country that is expected to enter the spotlight is Ghana. Previously off the map for most leisure travelers, it will be much easier to explore thanks to Explore’s new escorted tours. Intrepid will combine it with neighbors Benin and Togo. Launching from Heathrow, Virgin’s new route to Accra from Heathrow will begin from winter 2025. Discover how the slave trade shaped modern Africa by visiting Cape Coast, see colorful fabrics on the Kente looms and admire Accra’s fantastic and bizarre coffins – including casks in the shape of giant crabs and a racing car.

Best for a city break: Tbilisi, Georgia

Steeped in history dating back to the 5th century AD and lauded for its hedonistic nightlife, the refreshingly affordable Georgian capital is now a strong contender for a city break, thanks to two new routes: easyJet launches a direct flight from Luton on April 1, while British Airways will serve Heathrow from March 30. Stroll the cobbled streets of the UNESCO-listed Old Town district, soak in traditional bathhouses, and hang out in Mtatsminda’s bars and cafes.

Best for Food and Wine: Jerez, Spain

Sip sherry in a bodega or lounge on the beaches of the Costa de la Luz a few hours after leaving gray and rainy England. From May 2 to November 1, Jet2 will operate direct seasonal flights to the Andalusian city from Birmingham, Leeds Bradford and Manchester. Celebrated for its equestrian heritage, schools and fairs showcase the region’s famous horses. Cradle of flamenco, the small bars continue to be full of traditional music and dances.

Best for History: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

A controversial destination given its history of human rights abuses, the Middle East superpower has gone all out to carve out a booming tourism history. The treasures on offer are remarkable, ranging from the sculptural sandstone formations and Nabataean tombs of AlUla to the surprisingly hip city of Jeddah. Arrive in style with Virgin’s new route to the capital Riyadh, launching in March 2025.