Where Team MAIA Are Travelling This Year

With 2025 well underway, Team MAIA – a leading luxury PR agency in the UAE – is setting its sights on some of the world’s most captivating destinations. From off-the-beaten-path escapes to ultra-luxe city stays, our team is embracing diverse travel styles and chasing this year’s biggest trends in luxury travel.

In this blog, three of our team members share where they’re heading, their dream destinations, and what’s shaping their journeys – from cultural immersion and time with nature to uncovering hidden gems.

Where are you travelling to in 2025? Any dream destinations on your list?

Natasha Norton, Account Manager: I’m hoping to travel to Goa, which I’m really excited about as I’ve never been to any part of India before, and Goa seems to offer such a unique blend of beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history. I’m also eager to discover more about that side of my husband’s heritage, as his mum is originally from Goa. It’ll be special to visit the places that are part of his family’s story.

Justine Fernandez, Account Coordinator: Dream destinations would be Japan and South Korea for me, but I’m planning to go to the Philippines this year for my mother’s birthday. Nothing beats home and her cooking!

Lee Niekerk, Social Senior Account Executive: I have a few in mind including London, Madrid, Jamaica and home, South Africa, mainly to see family and friends. Dream destinations I would love to visit are Paris, Tokyo or Bali.

Do you like to map out every detail, or do you prefer to go with the flow when you travel? Why?

Natasha Norton, Account Manager

I’m someone who enjoys planning my trips and making the most of my time by discovering hidden gems and great food spots. I tend to book quite a few things in advance to make sure I don’t miss out on anything, especially when I’m visiting somewhere new. That said, I also like to leave some room for spontaneity. If I stumble upon a beach or a spot that I really love, I’m more than happy to scrap the schedule and spend the whole day there instead of just a few hours like I originally planned. It’s all about striking a balance between having a plan and allowing for those unexpected moments that make travel so special.

What type of travel experience excites you the most (e.g. luxury resorts, city escapes or off-the-grid adventures)?

Lee Niekerk, Social Senior Account Executive

I love city escapes as I am a city kid at heart, but I also love to change it up at times and do some off-the-grid adventures, while also making sure I capture every moment to post about it later. 

Which destinations do you think will be the hottest spots for luxury travel in 2025?

Natasha Norton, Account Manager

I have a strong feeling that South Africa, and particularly Cape Town, is going to be one of the hottest spots for luxury travel in 2025. It’s been popping up on my Instagram feed a lot recently, and every post just makes me want to go there even more. One place that’s really stood out to me is Sterrekopje Farm. It’s all about reconnecting with nature, with a concept rooted in ancestral wisdom passed down through generations. The idea of being able to step away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, grounding yourself in nature while enjoying luxurious yet mindful surroundings, is exactly the kind of escape I think many will crave. It’s a perfect blend of relaxation, luxury, and a deeper connection to the earth, which I can see drawing travellers in 2025.

Have you noticed any emerging travel trends for 2025? How do you see luxury travel evolving in the next year?

Justine Fernandez, Account Coordinator

Traditionally, I think that people haven’t always put much emphasis on the hotel they stay at, as long as it’s a decent place to rest and reset after a day exploring a destination. In 2025, hotels and resorts are the destination. Going beyond just a bed for the night, hotels are increasingly elevating their guest experience and activities, meaning travellers are enticed to spend a day or two enjoying the hotel itself.

What’s a hidden gem or underrated destination that deserves more attention?

 Lee Niekerk, Social Senior Account Executive

In my opinion I would say Armenia, it is such a richly diverse city filled with culture and art, the people are so friendly, and the seasons offer both hot and icy-cold weather.

If you could recommend just one unforgettable travel experience from the MAIA portfolio, what would it be?

Natasha Norton, Account Manager

If I had to recommend just one unforgettable travel experience from the MAIA portfolio, it would be the Journey through Oman’s hidden Sabatyn Village at Six Senses Zighy Bay. While I haven’t had the chance to experience it firsthand yet, it’s something I’d love to do.

The thought of exploring the rugged mountains at 1,200 metres above sea level to uncover the hidden Sabatyn village sounds amazing. With ancient petroglyphs and weathered stone homes, each one telling its own tale of resilience and tradition, it seems like it would be an unforgettable experience.

What makes a MAIA-represented property stand out compared to other luxury travel experiences?

Justine Fernandez, Account Coordinator

Beyond their stunning aesthetics and luxurious appeal, MAIA-represented properties stand out because they have a story to tell. Each destination is thoughtfully curated to evoke emotion and connection, brought to life through immersive campaigns that resonate with travellers on a personal level. They each offer experiences that feel meaningful, memorable, and deeply engaging.