Travel Hotlist: Top 5 Destinations to Book in October for 2025
October is the perfect month to start planning your 2025 adventures. Whether you’re dreaming of tropical beaches, winter wonderlands, or bucket-list cruises, now is the time to secure your travel plans. With some of the world’s most popular destinations booking up fast, locking in early ensures the best experiences, accommodations, and rates.
In this month’s Travel Hotlist, we’re highlighting five amazing destinations that are trending for 2025 and ideal to book in October. From sun-soaked escapes to once-in-a-lifetime adventures, these places should be on every traveler’s radar.
1. Hawaii (Winter and Spring 2025)
Why You Should Visit Hawaii: Hawaii is the ultimate tropical paradise, offering a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. Whether you’re lounging on the white sands of Waikiki or hiking to hidden waterfalls, Hawaii promises a rejuvenating escape. Each island has its own personality—Oahu's vibrant city life, Maui’s lush rainforests, Kauai’s untouched beaches, and the Big Island’s volcanic landscapes.
Discover the tropical paradise of Hawaii in 2025, with stunning beaches and endless sunshine on Oahu and Maui.
Imagine starting your day with a breathtaking sunrise, enjoying fresh tropical fruit, and then heading off to explore the natural beauty of the islands. Hawaii is a destination where you can unwind, explore, and immerse yourself in the aloha spirit.
Explore Hawaii's natural beauty with top experiences like snorkeling in Hanauma Bay and driving the scenic Road to Hana.
Top Experiences in Hawaii:
Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay (Oahu): Dive into clear turquoise waters teeming with colorful fish and coral reefs.
The Road to Hana (Maui): A scenic drive that takes you through rainforests, waterfalls, and rugged coastlines.
Waimea Canyon (Kauai): Known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” this scenic spot is perfect for hiking and photography.
Volcanoes National Park (Big Island): Witness the raw power of nature with active volcanic craters and lava flows.
Wake up to the sight of playful dolphins in the lagoon from your own balcony or patio in a Dolphin Lanai room at the Kahala Hotel & Resort.
Where to Stay in Hawaii:
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai (Big Island): This resort offers beachfront luxury with family-friendly amenities like multiple pools, a kids' program, and cultural activities that everyone can enjoy. Ideal for families looking for an elevated yet laid-back experience with access to golf, spas, and Hawaiian traditions.
The Kahala Hotel & Resort (Oahu): A quieter alternative to the busy Waikiki area, this iconic luxury resort offers a blend of relaxation and elegance with dolphin lagoons, cultural activities, and a renowned kids' club. Perfect for families seeking luxury without sacrificing unique Hawaiian experiences.
Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection (Kauai): For those looking for premium experiences without the large crowds, this Autograph Collection hotel offers the charm of Kauai with luxury villas, spacious pools, and a relaxed but upscale atmosphere. It’s ideal for multigenerational family trips, with large accommodations and stunning landscapes.
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa (Oahu): A family-focused luxury resort that offers a unique blend of Disney magic with Hawaiian culture. Perfect for multi-generational families, Aulani features spacious villas, pools, character experiences, and immersive cultural activities that appeal to kids and adults alike.
Booking Tips:
Book Early for Spring Break and Winter Holidays: Hawaii is in high demand during these periods, so reserve accommodations and activities now to secure your preferred dates.
Consider Island Hopping: With short inter-island flights, you can explore multiple islands in one trip.
2. New York City (Winter Holiday Season 2025)
Celebrate the holidays in New York City under the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree in winter 2025.
Why You Should Visit NYC: New York City during the holiday season is a bucket-list experience for travelers of all ages. The city transforms into a festive wonderland with glittering lights, Christmas trees, and elaborate window displays. Whether you’re ice skating beneath the Rockefeller Center tree, catching the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall, or shopping at the holiday markets, the magic of the season is felt everywhere.
New York is perfect for those who want to experience holiday traditions mixed with cultural attractions, iconic landmarks, and world-class entertainment.
Experience New York City’s holiday magic with Broadway shows and ice skating at Rockefeller Center.
Top Experiences in NYC:
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree & Ice Skating: An iconic holiday photo op and skating experience under the lights.
Radio City Christmas Spectacular: The legendary Rockettes put on a dazzling holiday show filled with festive cheer.
Fifth Avenue Holiday Window Displays: Stroll along Fifth Avenue and marvel at the elaborate, creative holiday displays.
Broadway Shows: From holiday specials to timeless classics like “Hamilton” and “The Lion King,” NYC’s theater scene is a must-see.
Experience the magic of the holidays in 2025 at The Plaza Hotel in New York City, where festive décor, luxurious accommodations, and iconic holiday traditions come to life.
Where to Stay in NYC:
The Langham, New York: Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, this upscale hotel is perfect for families looking for luxury with ease. Spacious rooms and suites offer plenty of room for kids, while its location puts you near Rockefeller Center and Broadway shows, perfect for experiencing NYC during the holidays.
The Plaza Hotel: An iconic landmark in New York, The Plaza offers luxury accommodations and holiday charm in the heart of Midtown. Located steps away from Central Park and Fifth Avenue, it's perfect for families looking to enjoy classic NYC holiday experiences.
The Beacon Hotel (Upper West Side): Located in a quieter, family-friendly neighborhood, The Beacon offers spacious suites with kitchenettes, making it a great option for families looking for more affordable, comfortable accommodations. It’s close to Central Park, the American Museum of Natural History, and just a short subway ride to holiday attractions, providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Times Square.
Booking Tips:
Reserve Holiday Tickets Early: Popular events like the Radio City Christmas Spectacular and Broadway shows sell out months in advance.
Stay Close to Major Attractions: NYC can be overwhelming during the holidays, so stay near your top sights to minimize travel time.
3. Alaska Cruises (Summer 2025)
Why You Should Visit Alaska: An Alaska cruise offers an extraordinary adventure into the untouched wilderness of one of the most breathtaking regions in the world. Imagine sailing past towering glaciers, spotting humpback whales, and exploring charming coastal towns—all while surrounded by snow-capped mountains and pristine forests. Alaska’s natural beauty is unrivaled, and cruising allows you to experience it all in comfort and luxury.
Sail through Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes, including glaciers and whale watching, on a 2025 summer cruise.
With each day bringing new landscapes, wildlife, and cultural experiences, Alaska cruises are perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Sail through Alaska’s majestic glaciers and rugged landscapes on a luxury cruise in summer 2025, offering breathtaking views and unforgettable wildlife experiences.
Top Experiences on an Alaska Cruise:
Glacier Bay National Park: Sail through Glacier Bay and marvel at massive glaciers calving into the sea.
Whale Watching in Juneau: Keep your eyes peeled for humpback whales breaching in the icy waters.
Dog Sledding on Mendenhall Glacier: Take a helicopter ride to the glacier and experience the thrill of dog sledding.
Exploring Ketchikan: Visit this charming town known for its Native Alaskan totem poles, vibrant culture, and fresh seafood.
Cruise Lines to Consider:
Disney Cruise Line: Disney’s Alaska cruises offer a luxury family cruise experience with a special focus on kids and multigenerational travelers. Families can enjoy both the wilderness of Alaska and Disney’s signature hospitality, with shore excursions designed for all ages and onboard entertainment that brings everyone together.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises: For families looking for an all-inclusive luxury experience with an educational twist, Regent’s Alaska itineraries offer luxury and comfort, including smaller ships, personalized service, and enrichment programs that immerse travelers in Alaska’s culture and wildlife.
Celebrity Cruises: Known for its modern luxury, Celebrity Cruises balances sophistication with family-friendly amenities. The ship’s sleek design, variety of excursions, and dining experiences provide a luxury experience that’s still approachable for families and multi-generational groups.
Booking Tips:
Book Balcony Cabins Early: These cabins offer the best views of Alaska’s glaciers and wildlife, so they sell out quickly.
Secure Shore Excursions in Advance: Excursions like dog sledding and helicopter tours have limited availability and should be booked early.
4. Salem, Massachusetts (Fall 2025)
Why You Should Visit Salem: Salem, Massachusetts, is the ultimate Halloween destination. Known for its infamous witch trials and rich history, Salem comes alive every October with spooky festivities, haunted happenings, and ghostly tours. But here’s the catch: if you’re thinking about going for Halloween 2024, it’s likely too late. Many hotels, inns, and tours have already sold out months in advance. In fact, some of the most popular spots are already booking up for weekends in October 2025!
Immerse yourself in Salem’s spooky Halloween atmosphere in October 2025, with haunted houses and historic streets.
While it may feel early to plan for next Halloween, Salem’s popularity continues to grow, and booking early is essential to securing the best accommodations and experiences for 2025. Now’s the perfect time to lock in your stay so you won’t miss out on one of the most festive and eerie destinations for Halloween lovers.
Top Experiences in Salem:
Haunted Happenings Festival: A month-long celebration with parades, ghost tours, psychic readings, and more.
Salem Witch Museum: Learn about the Salem Witch Trials and the dark history that shaped the town.
The House of the Seven Gables: Tour this historic mansion made famous by Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel.
Candlelit Ghost Tours: Walk through Salem’s most haunted locations and hear chilling tales of the supernatural.
Experience the charm and history of Salem, Massachusetts, on a spooky fall weekend in 2025, where colonial architecture meets haunted history.
Where to Stay in Salem:
The Merchant Hotel: This boutique hotel offers a luxurious and historically rich stay in the heart of Salem. With only a few uniquely designed rooms, it’s perfect for families seeking something intimate, stylish, and full of character. Its central location allows easy access to all the Halloween festivities without being overwhelming.
The Salem Inn: A charming, historic inn made up of three restored mansions, The Salem Inn is ideal for families or multigenerational travelers looking for a unique stay with a lot of history. The inn offers family suites, a cozy atmosphere, and walking distance to many of Salem’s most famous sites.
Hawthorne Hotel: Known for its historical significance and spooky charm, the Hawthorne Hotel is a great choice for families wanting to stay somewhere with both luxury and local history. The hotel offers suites and is located near the heart of Salem’s attractions, making it a perfect spot for Halloween festivities.
Booking Tips:
Book Early for Halloween: Salem is a hotspot for Halloween enthusiasts, and hotels, tours, and events fill up a year in advance.
Explore Beyond October: Salem’s history and coastal charm are worth experiencing year-round, so consider visiting during the quieter seasons.
5. River Cruises in Europe (Spring 2025)
Sail through charming European towns on a luxurious river cruise along the Danube or Rhine in spring 2025.
Why You Should Visit Europe on a River Cruise: A European river cruise offers an unparalleled way to explore the continent’s most charming towns, historic cities, and scenic landscapes—all from the comfort of a luxury riverboat. Picture yourself sipping wine on the deck as you glide past centuries-old castles, or disembarking each day to explore cobblestone streets, picturesque villages, and world-famous landmarks.
River cruises provide a more intimate and relaxed way to travel, with smaller ships and curated itineraries that immerse you in local culture and history.
Top River Cruise Experiences:
The Danube: Sail from Budapest to Vienna, exploring Eastern Europe’s rich history and architecture.
The Rhine: Discover Germany’s wine regions and medieval castles along the scenic Rhine River.
The Seine: From Paris to Normandy, explore the French countryside and its beautiful riverside villages.
Explore the historic beauty of Berlin on a Rhine River cruise in 2025, featuring iconic landmarks like the Berlin TV Tower and Museum Island.
Cruise Lines to Consider:
Adventures by Disney: Offering a curated, family-friendly experience, Adventures by Disney provides an all-inclusive luxury river cruise that immerses travelers in European culture and history. With dedicated guides, exclusive activities, and family-friendly itineraries, it’s a perfect fit for multigenerational families looking for an enriching and hassle-free adventure.
AmaWaterways: Known for its focus on family and multigenerational travel, AmaWaterways offers themed family cruises along the Danube and Rhine, with activities and excursions that cater to all ages. The intimate atmosphere and all-inclusive options make this an ideal choice for a luxurious family river cruise.
Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours: For families looking for a high-end experience, Scenic’s all-inclusive river cruises offer luxury amenities like private butler service, cultural excursions, and gourmet dining, while still being approachable for family travelers who appreciate attentive service without formality.
Booking Tips for River Cruises:
Book Early for Themed Cruises: Themed cruises—such as wine-tasting tours, Christmas market sailings, and historical voyages—are incredibly popular and tend to sell out quickly. Booking well in advance ensures you secure your spot on one of these special itineraries.
Opt for a Balcony Cabin: While river cruises are more intimate than ocean liners, a balcony cabin provides a luxurious way to enjoy the views of Europe’s stunning landscapes from the privacy of your room.
Why You Should Book Early
Booking your dream vacation early has several key advantages:
Best Selection: The earlier you book, the better chance you have of securing your preferred accommodations, cabins, and excursions. Popular hotels and experiences often fill up fast, especially in high-demand destinations like Hawaii, NYC during the holidays, and Alaska cruises.
Lower Prices: Airlines, hotels, and cruise lines frequently offer early booking discounts or promotional rates. Locking in your trip early can help you avoid price hikes closer to your travel date.
Stress-Free Planning: By securing your plans in advance, you can spend the months leading up to your trip focused on packing and anticipating the fun, rather than scrambling to find available rooms or tours at the last minute.
Exclusive Offers: Travel agencies like ours often have access to exclusive deals, perks, and upgrades for early bookings. Whether it's a cabin upgrade on a cruise or a special tour, booking early can unlock special experiences.
Travel Insurance: Protecting Your Dream Vacation
With any trip, especially those booked far in advance, it’s smart to invest in travel insurance. Unexpected events such as illness, weather disruptions, or even global travel restrictions can impact your plans. Travel insurance offers peace of mind, ensuring that you’re protected against cancellations, delays, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Make sure your travel insurance covers:
Trip Cancellation: Reimburses you for non-refundable costs if you need to cancel for covered reasons.
Medical Coverage: Provides coverage for medical emergencies abroad, especially important in destinations like Alaska or Europe where healthcare costs can add up.
Trip Interruption: Protects you if you need to cut your trip short due to unexpected events.
Let Us Help You Plan the Perfect Trip!
With so many incredible destinations to choose from, planning your dream vacation can feel overwhelming. But you don’t have to do it alone! Whether you’re dreaming of a luxurious escape to Hawaii, a festive holiday trip to NYC, or a bucket-list adventure to Alaska, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Our expertise in travel planning means we can tailor your trip to meet your exact needs—whether it’s booking exclusive tours, finding hidden gems, or securing the best hotels and accommodations. Let us take the stress out of planning, so you can focus on making lifelong memories with the people you love.
Ready to start planning your 2025 adventure? Contact us today to get started!
