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Image Credit Trip.com
According to data released by Trip.com Group, the 2025 Lunar New Year is marked by an increase in cross-border travel and longer stays, with trips lasting up to 10% longer than in previous years. Travelers are also showing interest in less popular destinations and cruises.
This year, the Year of the Snake in the Chinese zodiac has seen travelers seeking to create memorable experiences in different destinations. The majority of travelers are from the Asia-Pacific region, where extended public holidays allow for longer trips. Favorite destinations among these travelers include Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and mainland China.
There’s also been a surge in visits to destinations outside the Asia-Pacific region, especially among Malaysian and South Korean travelers. Lesser-known locales, like Giza in Egypt, San Luis Obispo in the USA, and Charenton-le-Pont in France, attract travelers looking for unique experiences. Similarly, cities like Funabashi, Ibaraki, and Okinawa in Japan and Seremban in Malaysia are becoming popular in Asia.
Family travel has also become a significant trend, with cruises and theme parks seeing a considerable increase in visitors. Shanghai, Singapore, and Dubai have emerged as popular ports for cruises, while Universal Studios Japan, Hong Kong Disneyland, and Tokyo Disneyland have witnessed an increase in family visits.
Travelers also opt for a blend of luxury and value for their holiday experiences. Bookings for 4- and 5-star hotels have risen, particularly among Malaysian, Singaporean, and Thai travelers. At the same time, alternative accommodations like traditional Japanese Ryokans, apartments, guesthouses, and homestays are becoming more popular.
The Chinese mainland has observed a 200% increase in inbound travel bookings. This growth is attributed to China’s traveler-friendly visa policies, extending to 30 countries. To cater to this influx of travelers, Trip.com Group offers free layover tours to top attractions in Beijing.
Cultural landmarks like the Great Wall of Badaling, the Great Wall of Mutianyu, the Forbidden City Museum, and the Summer Palace are among the top tourist attractions. Trip.com Group’s data indicate that the demand for such experiences has grown by over 200% compared to last year.
