As winter approaches, atlys, a visa processing platform, unveils the travel trends that will define this holiday season. Travellers are seeking a mix of adventure, wellness, and culturally immersive experiences to make the most of the season. While classic winter destinations remain popular, emerging preferences are drawing Indians to Southeast Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East for their rich cultural offerings and affordability.
“Today’s travellers are redefining holiday experiences,” says 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 travellers’ evolving preferences for meaningful and varied experiences.”
Key Travel Trends for the Holiday Season –
Rising Popularity of Winter Adventures:
Winter destinations like the Swiss Alps and Japan’s Hokkaido are trending, as more travellers seek seasonal activities like skiing and snowboarding. Iceland and Norway have also gained popularity for their breathtaking Northern Lights experiences, drawing travellers looking for a unique and magical winter adventure.
Classic Holiday Destinations Hold Their Ground:
Traditional favourites such as London, Zurich, and Vienna continue to attract holiday-goers, with visa applications up by 27.2%, particularly among millennials seeking festive atmospheres. While these classic European hubs remain strong, destinations like Turkey, Portugal and Georgia are emerging as favourable alternatives with mild climates and vibrant cultural scenes. High-cost cities like Paris have seen a minor decline in interest, as budget-conscious travellers explore options with similar holiday charm at lower prices.
Wellness-Focused Escapes:
Wellness travel continues to rise, with travellers looking to start the new year refreshed. Bali remains a top choice, alongside Thailand and Sri Lanka, where wellness offerings combine with rich cultural experiences. Meanwhile, destinations like the Maldives have seen a drop.
Affordability-Driven Destination Shifts:
Affordability is pushing travellers to explore beyond the conventional destinations. Goa has seen a comparative decline in interest, with destinations like Thailand, Vietnam, Azerbaijan and Almaty gaining traction among budget-conscious travellers who value cost-effective yet culturally enriching experiences.
Sustainable Travel Choices:
Scandinavian countries, including Norway and Sweden, are at the forefront of sustainable travel, offering innovative eco-tourism initiatives and unparalleled opportunities to explore pristine nature responsibly. Alongside them, destinations like New Zealand and Costa Rica remain strong contenders, drawing eco-conscious travellers looking to combine adventure with sustainability. atlys data shows a 40% rise in eco-friendly travel, particularly among Gen Z and Millennials.
The Rise of Bleisure Travel:
Bleisure travel is on the rise, with professionals extending work trips to destinations like New York, Singapore, and Berlin. Egypt has emerged as an appealing choice for bleisure, offering a unique blend of historical landmarks and modern business facilities that make it an attractive destination for work and leisure combined.
Unique Cultural New Year’s Celebrations:
Destinations with unique New Year’s traditions are becoming increasingly popular, from Tokyo’s customs to Edinburgh’s Hogmanay festival. The United Arab Emirates (UAE), particularly Dubai, has experienced a notable increase in tourism, with travellers even planning short 3–4 day trips just to experience ringing in the New Year there.
Increased Interest in Family-Friendly Destinations:
Family travel is on the rise, with UAE, Singapore, Europe and Australia among the top choices for multi-generational gatherings. atlys data reflects a 28.4% increase in family-oriented travel this season.
The 2024 holiday season reveals how travellers are prioritizing affordability, wellness, and cultural exploration in their plans. These shifts underscore a growing interest in meaningful travel that aligns with personal values and diverse experiences, reflecting broader changes in how people approach their holidays.
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