MUMBAI: For the upcoming winter travel season, travelers are increasingly favoring destinations in Southeast Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East, which offer a mix of adventure, wellness, and cultural immersion, according to a visa processing platform.
While traditional winter destinations retain their appeal, Indians are being drawn to the cultural richness and cost-effectiveness of Southeast Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East, said Atlys, a visa processing platform.
“Today’s travelers are redefining holiday experiences,” said Mohak Nahta, Founder and CEO of Atlys. “There’s a growing desire to explore destinations that offer authentic culture, affordability, and unique adventures. Whether it’s chasing the Northern Lights, soaking in Europe’s festive charm, or unwinding in serene wellness retreats, holiday plans are becoming more diverse, reflecting travelers’ evolving preferences for meaningful and varied experiences.”
The 2024 holiday season highlights a shift toward affordable, wellness-focused, and culturally enriching travel experiences, reflecting evolving holiday preferences and values. Atlys outlined key travel trends for the upcoming season:
Winter Adventure Destinations Gaining Popularity
The Swiss Alps and Japan’s Hokkaido are attracting winter sports enthusiasts with activities like skiing and snowboarding. Iceland and Norway are becoming prime destinations for viewing the Northern Lights.
Traditional Holiday Spots Stay Popular
London, Zurich, and Vienna continue to draw visitors, with visa applications increasing by 27.2%, particularly among millennials. Turkey, Portugal, and Georgia are emerging as viable alternatives offering pleasant weather and rich culture. Interest in premium destinations like Paris has declined due to cost concerns.
Health and Wellness Travel
The wellness tourism sector continues to expand as travelers seek rejuvenating ways to start the new year. Bali remains a top destination, joined by Thailand and Sri Lanka, while interest in the Maldives has waned.
Cost-Effective Destinations
Economic considerations are driving travelers to explore alternative locations. While interest in Goa has declined, Thailand, Vietnam, Azerbaijan, and Almaty are attracting budget-conscious visitors seeking enriching cultural experiences.
Environmental Tourism
Destinations in Norway and Sweden lead in sustainable tourism with eco-friendly initiatives and natural attractions. New Zealand and Costa Rica remain popular among environmentally conscious travelers, with Atlys data showing a 40% increase in eco-friendly travel.
Professional-Leisure Combined Travel
Work-leisure combination trips are on the rise, with destinations like New York, Singapore, and Berlin leading the trend. Egypt has also emerged as a notable choice, blending historical attractions with modern business facilities.
Unique New Year Celebrations
Destinations with distinctive New Year traditions are gaining popularity, from Tokyo’s customs to Edinburgh’s Hogmanay festival. Dubai and other locations in the UAE are seeing increased visitor numbers for brief New Year celebrations.
Family Holiday Destinations
Family travel is on the rise, with the UAE, Singapore, Europe, and Australia preferred for multi-generational vacations. Atlys data indicates a 28.4% increase in family-oriented travel