We may never really break up with Bali, but, the biggest travel trends of 2025 will go beyond Ubud, and embrace the extraordinary. In fact, according to Booking.com’s latest Travel Predictions, gone are the days of beachside cliches and cookie-cutter itineraries. Instead, Aussies are stepping into a world of nocturnal escapades, wellness retreats, and tech-savvy travels – packed with midnight adventures, vintage finds and sea side escapes in unexpected places (like the Sanya in China, main feature image). Because, who needs tradition when you can have a thrill?
Star light, star bright
First up: Noctourism. Forget sunburn and squinting in selfies – nearly two-thirds (57%) of Aussie adventurers are chasing starlit skies instead. Dark sky destinations are trending, with celestial pursuits like star-bathing (yes, it’s a thing), constellation tracking, and cosmic events topping wish lists. Imagine swapping sunscreen for stargazing apps and letting the universe light your path.
However, it’s not just about the stars. With 56% of travellers keen to avoid the sun’s rays altogether, moonlit hikes and twilight tours are in vogue. And, the best bit is you don’t need to travel halfway across the world to experience the magic of a starlight sky. Closer to home, untouched rural destinations such as Mount Wellington, Mudgee and Murrurundi in the Upper Hunter Shire deliver some of the best examples of why midnight magic is officially the new golden hour.
Age aint nothing but a number
Think adventure is a young person’s game? Not anymore. Baby boomers are leading the charge for adrenaline-filled escapades. From glacier hunting (39%) to skydiving (11%), our older generation is proving that age is just a number. It’s less “bucket list” and more “bring it on.”
Meanwhile, multigenerational trips are getting a cheeky twist. Instead of saving for the kids, parents are embracing SKI holidays – Spending Kids’ Inheritance – on epic family getaways. Why save for tomorrow when you can make memories today?
AI = Alternative Itineraries
Come 2025, Aussie travellers will continue to lean on AI to craft smarter, savvier itineraries. With 61% embracing AI-powered tools, like Booking.com’s Trip Planner, the future of travel is literally at your fingertips. These digital sidekicks are helping Aussies discover authentic experiences and avoid overrun hotspots.
But don’t expect everyone to share their finds. Over half (51%) of travellers admit they won’t tag lesser-known gems on social media – some secrets are worth keeping!
Boys, bonding and balance
Male travellers are ditching the “beer and bravado” stereotype for mindful, wellness-focused getaways. Dubbed “Boyz II Zen,” these men-only retreats are all about self-improvement, mental health, and meaningful connections. Whether it’s yoga retreats, hiking trips, or unplugging in nature, 2025 is the year of zen for men.
Vintage voyages are a vibe
For Gen Z, travel isn’t just about where you go – it’s how you dress. Enter Vintage Voyaging. Over half (59%) of young travellers plan to hit thrift stores abroad, curating sustainable, stylish wardrobes on the fly. Why pack a suitcase when you can shop one?
It’s not just about style, though. Thrift shopping speaks to a deeper desire for meaningful, budget-conscious travel. With 55% of Aussies vowing to tighten their budgets, these treasure hunts are a way to save cash and embrace the thrill of the find.
Check in chic
Think airports are just a means to an end? Think again. Nearly a quarter (24%) of Aussies are now choosing destinations based on their airports. From sleep pods to Michelin-starred meals, today’s terminals are redefining the pre-flight experience. Layovers? More like slayovers.
Inclusive adventures
Travel in 2025 is also getting more inclusive. Neurodivergent travellers are calling for sensory-friendly options like quiet spaces and noise-cancelling tools. With 55% of neurodivergent Aussies reporting past challenges while travelling, the industry is finally stepping up to create journeys that feel as good as they look.
But where are we booking.com?
Finally, a number of exciting destinations are poised to capture the attention of travellers. From tropical paradises to cultural hubs, Booking.com has identified some of the hottest travel spots for the upcoming year, with a mix of established favorites and hidden gems.
Sanya, China is set to be a top contender, often called ‘China’s Hawaii’. Located on Hainan Island, this tropical city offers stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and a wealth of cultural and natural attractions. Known for its year-round warm climate and geothermal hot springs. Trieste, Italy is another rising star, attracting those with a love for history, architecture, and coastal landscapes. Nestled between the Adriatic Sea and Slovenia, visitors can explore historic sites like Piazza Unite d’Italia, Miramare Castle, and the nearby Postojna Cave.
For those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path destination, Joao Pessoa, Brazil offers a tropical escape with stunning beaches, vibrant markets, and rich cultural experiences. Known as the ‘Sun Gate’, it is one of the greenest cities in the world and offers both natural beauty and fascinating historical sites like the Centro Historico and local churches. Similarly, Tromso Norway, located above the Arctic Circle, is becoming a must-see destination for Northern Lights enthusiasts. This remote city offers spectacular natural wonders, including the midnight sun, fjords, and unique wildlife experiences like training Alaskan Husky puppies.
Other notable destinations for 2025 include Willemstad, Curacao, with its colorful colonial architecture and stunning beaches, Tignes, France, a year-round alpine playground for outdoor enthusiasts, and San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, offering a serene escape with its otherworldly landscapes and dark-sky experiences.
Booking.com’s Todd Lacey sums it up perfectly: “It’s not about ticking off bucket lists; it’s about breaking the mould and creating experiences that truly count.”
