Cheers to 2024 and Hello, 2025—This Year Might Just Change Our Lives!

Hello, Skinny Readers! Welcome back to The Skinny Chef Diaries weekly blog. Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed Happy New Year! 2025 is here, and I believe it holds the potential for us all to achieve our dreams and aspirations.

Chef Rod and Shadre enjoying a lovely time at the Lion and Safari Park just outside Johannesburg

Some of us welcomed the year with a pop of bubbly, glittering themed parties, or even a sparkly outfit for a church service. However you celebrated, it’s time to gear up for an exciting year ahead! Let’s break out those fresh calendars and start jotting down some of the best foodie destinations I’m recommending for the first half of 2025.

Shadre posing with the Lion and Safari Park mascots.

Whether you’re a January traveler making the most of a post-holiday break or looking for an affordable vacation, there’s something here for everyone!

Top Foodie Destinations for the First Half of 2025

Western Cape Winelands, South Africa

If you’ve been hustling hard through December, the sunny Western Cape is your January oasis. The festive crowds are gone, and prices drop, leaving you with extra cash to indulge. Savor exquisite wines, divine cuisine, and summer vibes in this unforgettable destination to kickstart the year in style.

Giraffe Manor, Nairobi, Kenya

Dreaming of a unique urban safari? Giraffe Manor in Nairobi offers a surreal experience where you can feed giraffes from your hotel window! This elegant 1930s manor combines old-world charm, serenity, and Kenyan adventure. Don’t miss this unforgettable encounter with wildlife.

Venice, Italy

Looking for a romantic getaway? February is perfect for taking your Valentine to the floating city. Treat yourself to Venice's sweet delicacies like galani, fritelle, chiacchiere, castagnole, and Ravioli di Carnevale. For a more savory experience, indulge in cicchetti (Venetian tapas) paired with local wines. End the evening with mouthwatering pasta at a cozy family-owned trattoria.

Barefoot Luxury at Lake Malawi

Africa’s third-largest freshwater lake boasts soft sandy beaches rivaling those of the Seychelles or Mauritius. Spend serene days soaking up the sun and retreating to private, luxurious accommodations. If tranquility and unmatched views are your style, Lake Malawi is the ultimate barefoot luxury destination. The best time to visit? Early May.

Lima, Peru

Known as the culinary capital of South America, Lima will tantalize your taste buds. With over 4,000 potato varieties and the freshest seafood, you’ll love classics like ceviche, aji de gallina (shredded chicken in creamy sauce), and even guinea pig stuffed with herbs. April is the ideal month to experience Lima’s vibrant food scene, set against breathtaking views of the city.

Crete, Greece

Often overshadowed by Mykonos and Santorini, Crete is a hidden gem. This large Greek island offers luxury resorts, ancient sites like Knossos and Gortys, and unforgettable local cuisine. Think lamb, fresh seafood, and handmade cheeses crafted with local ingredients. Plan your visit for June to enjoy Crete at its best as summer in the northern hemisphere begins.

Let’s Toast to 2025!

There you have it, Skinny Readers—my top foodie destination picks for the first half of 2025. Let’s start the year on a high note, work hard, and make those dream vacations a reality.

That wraps up this week’s blog! Thank you for tuning in, staying engaged, and most importantly, staying skinny! Until next week, same time, same place! 🥂

Special thanks to our Creative Director Shadre Leonard.