Rising Interest in Shoulder and Low-Season Travel
After the overwhelming volume of travelers during the 2022 and 2023 summers, our data suggests that travelers’ notions of high, shoulder, and low seasons are evolving. Travelers are increasingly booking international trips during what was once considered shoulder season. According to 41% of travel specialists surveyed, this has resulted in the extension of the traditional high season into what used to be the less busy months.
Emerging Interest in Off-the-Beaten-Path and Authentic Experiences
Our travelers are seeking fewer crowds and more authentic, off-the-beaten-path destinations. Requests for destinations and tours that focus on cultural immersion, traditional restaurants, and interactions with locals have increased, resulting in an emerging trend toward slow travel. Travelers are spending more time at each destination to savor authentic and signature experiences.
Interest in Australia and New Zealand Increases
We have seen notable shifts in the destinations travelers are booking, specifically New Zealand and Australia. Each climbed five and seven spots, respectively, in our ranking for most popular destinations booked in 2024 vs. 2023. Both countries were among the last to reopen following the pandemic.
Increased Demand Plus Inflation Driving Price Increases Surpassing Pre-COVID
Traveler budgets have swelled 18% vs. 2019, after dropping during COVID. Our in-country travel specialists have received feedback from travelers noting how the rising cost of travel, including accommodations, activities, and general expenses, is part of the pre-booking conversation and can be a significant deterrent to initial plans, or alter the originally considered type of travel.
