As the Australian summer approaches, many families are planning their long-awaited getaways, seeking both domestic escapes and international adventures.
According to Booking.com’s latest search data, Bali has emerged as the favourite destination, recording a remarkable 75% year-over-year (YoY) increase in flight searches. This volcanic island, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, also ranks highly in accommodation searches with three out of the top ten winter destinations, spurred by the desire to escape the recent rainy weather.
Beyond Bali, Japan remains a top choice for Australian travellers, with Tokyo rising to the second most searched destination for accommodations, climbing three spots from last year. The allure of the 2024 Olympics is further driving Aussies to major European cities like London and Paris, which claim the third and ninth spots respectively in accommodation searches. In a striking trend, China has witnessed an astounding 95% YoY increase in flight searches, highlighting its growing appeal.
Closer to home, the Gold Coast continues to reign supreme as the most popular domestic destination. Other notable domestic hotspots include Mooloolaba, which has seen a 25% YoY increase, and Adelaide, with a 20% YoY increase in accommodation searches. These trends underscore Australians’ favour for coastal and metropolitan locations during the summer months.
Interestingly, technology is also shaping travel plans, with a recent study by Booking.com revealing that nearly a third of Millennials (31%) and Gen Z (30%) are likely to use AI in their travel planning this winter. This contrasts with Gen X (19%) and a mere 6% of Boomers showing similar inclinations. AI tools are particularly popular for booking holiday homes, with over a quarter (27%) of Australian travellers inclined to use them. Booking.com’s introduction of the AI Trip Planner in Australia signifies a shift towards smart travel solutions, poised to make planning easier and more personalised for users.
With these trends setting the stage, Australians are ready to embrace both familiar favourites and new horizons, fuelled by advanced travel planning tools, more convenient travel options and a renewed enthusiasm for exploration. Keep an eye out for emerging trends as we approach Christmas and New Year’s Eve!