Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Raja Ampat, the breathtaking archipelago in Indonesia’s West Papua province, has been named one of the “52 Places to Go in 2025” by The New York Times. Ranked at number 28, the destination surpassed notable locations such as Delphi, Greece, and Toyama, Japan, which secured the 29th and 30th spots, respectively.
According to The New York Times, the annual list, first launched in 2005, offers travel inspiration in an era that predates the conveniences of smartphones, Instagram, and Google Maps. Raja Ampat is described as “surrounded by the Coral Triangle, the most biodiverse marine ecosystem on the planet,” offering visitors stunning landscapes both above and below the water.
“Swim among spotted yellow boxfish and dive alongside purple gorgonian sea fans. Explore secluded beaches lined with coconut trees or venture into forests to catch a glimpse of the rare Wilson’s bird-of-paradise,” the publication highlighted.
Beyond its stunning natural beauty, The New York Times commended Raja Ampat as a rare example of successful conservation. While populations of rays and sharks decline globally, Raja Ampat’s coral manta ray numbers continue to thrive, thanks to dedicated local conservation efforts.
Read also : Scientists Discover Earth ‘Second Amazon’ Beneath Indonesian Sea: The Coral Triangle
Travelers can now access Raja Ampat more easily than ever. A new direct flight route from Bali to Sorong offers a seamless journey, followed by a boat ride to rural overwater bungalows managed by the Raja Ampat Homestay Association, operated by local residents.
Top of the List: Bath, England
Topping the New York Times list is Bath, England, celebrated for its historic charm. The destination earned this distinction due to the upcoming 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth, which will be celebrated in 2025.
“Jane Austen enthusiasts have a compelling reason to explore the southwest of England this year,” The New York Times noted.
To commemorate the anniversary, Bath will host numerous festivities, including a grand dance and the Grand Regency Costumed Promenade at the Jane Austen Centre. These events are part of a series of celebrations dedicated to the beloved author, offering a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in Austen’s world.
New York Times Must-Visit Destinations 2025 List
The New York Times comprehensive list spans 52 destinations worldwide. Citing from Kumparan, here is the complete list of the 52 Must-Visit Destinations by 2025:
- Bath – England
- Galapagos Island – Ecuador
- New York City Museum – US
- Assam – India
- ‘White Lotus’ – Thailand
- Greenland
- Provinsi Aix-En – France
- Sun Valley – Idaho, US
- Lumbini – Nepal
- Sydney – Australia
- Coimbra – Portugal
- Angola
- Hamburg – Germany
- Nicaragua
- Dolomite Mountains – Italy
- Asheville – N.C.
- Magdalena River – Colombia
- Los Cabos, Mexico
- Alishan – Taiwan
- Flow Country – Scotland
- Kristiansand – Norway
- Bukhara – Uzbekistan
- Lexington and Concord – Massachusetts, US
- Canfranc – Spain
- Benin City – Nigeria
- Amsterdam – Netherlands
- New Orleans – US
- Raja Ampat – Indonesia
- Delphi – Greece
- Toyama – Japan
- French Basque Country
- Kilifi – Kenya
- British Virgin Islands
- Lofoten Islands – Norway
- East London – England
- Stockholm Archipelago – Sweden
- Kutaisi – Georgia
- Osaka – Japan
- Detroit – US
- Trent-Severn Waterway – Ontario
- Montserrat – Spain
- Western Australia
- Washington, D.C. – US
- Nangma Valley – Pakistan
- Sicily Divide Cycle Route
- Ollantaytambo – Peru
- Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
- Huangshan – China
- Milan – Italy
- Bulgaria
- Rotterdam – Netherlands
- Montserrat – Caribbean Islands
From the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador to Washington, D.C., showcasing a diverse array of travel experiences. With its inclusion on this prestigious list, Raja Ampat continues to capture the imagination of global travelers, standing as a testament to Indonesia’s natural and cultural wealth.
(Raidi/Agung)
