THE FUSE

From a secluded valley in Uzbekistan to a sacred Canadian island you can see but not touch, these images captivated BBC.com's photo editors this year.

A great travel photograph can captivate us, stir us and reveal far-flung corners of the globe we didn't know existed. They not only offer us an escape, but also a glimpse of the many people, places and cultures that make the world so wondrously diverse.

This past year, BBC.com's visual editors have collaborated with some amazing photographers to see the world through their lenses. From monk-led travel experiences in Laos to a mesmerising firefly display in North Carolina, here are some of the images that stayed with us in 2025.

"Overtourism remains an important issue, and these images show the contrast between maintaining Laos' unique traditions and commodifying it through mass tourism. As a traveller, the best etiquette is to respect cultures during your stay, and these photos make me hopeful that it's possible to find that middle ground between immersing yourself in a place and unwittingly harming it." – Yun Sun Park

"These images provide a glimpse of the sheer size of Mexico City's food market. I'm in awe of the business that goes on to exchange over 30,000 tons of produce stored in warehouses into the hands of half a million customers every day. Food is one of the things that brings people together and the photos here show the connection between everyday farmers and high-end restaurants. It's a testament to how sticking to your craft leads you to become a sought-out expert in your field." – Yun Sun Park

"The image of the woman weaving silk has a depth that emphasises the history behind the traditional art form. I'd love to munch on the platter of snacks that was freshly picked and prepared here. These are elements that encompass what travel is to me." – Yun Sun Park

"Marcel Heinjnen's images evoke a sense of whimsy that reminded me of some distant forgotten childhood films. I'm completely taken by the photographer's ability to humanise these subjects. Each cat playfully participates with the camera, just as they do within their communities, truly achieving storytelling through the lens. This achieved intimacy with the subjects doesn't make the cats seem out of place, which adds an incredible layer to this story about Istanbul's 'modern-day street guardians'." – Serenity Strull

"From his trek in the Canadian Rockies, BBC writer and editor Eliot Stein described Spirit Island as 'mythical'. The lead image from Jake Graham captures this otherworldly landscape and truly illustrates the headline's powerful impact – showing you a haven you can see but not touch. The glassy water of Maligne Lake immediately struck me, completely unblemished and perfectly reflecting the towering mountains and sharp foliage. The images aren't just technical accomplishments, they also lift and enhance the story's by capturing the sanctity of this small island protected by the Stoney First Nation. But what I found the most compelling about the first photograph was the emotional impact it elicits. As you take in the composition, the entire scene feels like a deep breath, and one that'll make you feel convicted in upholding the island's protections and isolation." – Serenity Strull

"Photographer Ernesto Roman takes us through the streets of Chinatown in New York City, his adopted home. Restaurants, street food carts at night and close-ups of succulent Cantonese foods showcase the neighbourhood's rich and diverse culinary offerings. Calvin Eng, known for his reinterpretation of Cantonese cuisine, is photographed by Roman, looking proud in the streets of Chinatown, where he takes us to his favourite places." – Javier Hirschfeld

"Ryan Silver's stylish photographs evoke a sense of glamour and were one of my favourite shoots I worked on this year. An elegant cocktail bar is the background for Silver's portrait of award-winning director Paul Feig, known nearly as much for his films and his love for cocktails. From one of his preferred cocktail bars in Los Angeles, the always-classy Feig takes us around the world to his favourite bars in London, Capri and New York." – Javier Hirshfeld

"I also loved working with writer Andrea Carlo and photographer Maurizio Fiorino on this article on the little-known tradition of Jewish food in Rome – which is home to one of Europe's oldest Jewish communities. Jewish food in the Italian capital dates back to 2nd Century BCE, and was influenced by waves of newly arrived Sephardic Jews who were exiled from Spain and Portugal in the 15th and 16th Centuries. Fiorino's portraits introduce us to Ruben Bondi in Rome, influencer chef and member of the city's Jewish community; he also captured dishes like carciofi alla giudia – images inviting us to travel to Rome for artichokes and other rich dishes featured in the article." – Javier Hirshfeld

"Glastonbury is, for most readers, synonymous with music, mud and revellry during the British summer. This story led us to discover the more spiritual side of the town beyond the famous music festival, through the eyes of Rollo Maughfling, pioneer of a modern Druidic revival in the town. Photographer Fran Gomez de Villaboa masterfully captures the spirit of Glastonbury and of the druid, as in this scenic portrait of Rollo by the sacred springs." – Javier Hirshfeld

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