TTC Tour Brands, which includes Trafalgar, Brendan Vacations, Costsaver, Contiki, Insight Vacations and Luxury Gold has made a list, checked it twice, and revealed its top trending destinations for 2025 based on recent booking behaviour by Canadian clients.
According to the tour company, Asia remains a top choice for travellers heading into 2025, driven by a favourable currency exchange rate and the region’s “enduring appeal of its rich culture and world-renowned cuisine.” The trend is evidenced by a 150% surge in bookings of Trafalgar’s “Splendours of Japan with Hiroshima” itinerary.
Thailand specifically is one of 2025’s most popular destinations, following the announcement as the setting of the third upcoming season of HBO’s hit drama White Lotus, set to premiere in early 2025.
Aligning with the strong trend of set-jetting, where guests opt to vacation in famous TV show and movie filming locations, budget-friendly tour operator Costsaver’s Essential Thailand is observing an increase of 100% while social travel company Contiki is reporting a 60% increase in bookings for the Thai Island Hopper West.
Europe
At the same time, interest in Europe remains strong, as travellers across different demographics continuously tick coveted destinations and attractions off their bucket lists. Contiki is reporting a 66% surge in bookings for the “European Highlights” itinerary, which explores top cities such as Rome, Venice and Paris while Insight Vacations’ “Grand Italy and Sicily” is seeing a 100% increase in bookings.
And following the 2024 Paris Olympics, Trafalgar’s “Treasures of France Including Normandy” and “European Whirl End Paris” trips are both registering a 100% surge in bookings, showcasing travellers’ rekindled passion for French culture, cuisine, and countryside exploration.
Canadian travellers are also seeking less-travelled destinations, opting for nature over busy urban centres. Insight Vacations’ “Britain and Ireland Discovery” and “Country Roads of France” trips, which hop through smaller cities like York, Limerick, Albi, Dijon, amongst others, are experiencing a 50% and 100% increase respectively.
Scandinavia continues to dominate the 2024 World Happiness Report, with Finland, Denmark, Sweden, and Norway leading the list thanks to strong community support and policies that prioritize well-being. Insight Vacations’ Country Roads of Scandinavia trip is trending up 150% compared to last year and Trafalgar’s Scenic Scandinavia and its Fjords trip is up 116%.
“As we look ahead to 2025, it’s clear that Canadian travellers are captivated by both iconic destinations and less-travelled gems,” says Melissa DaSilva, interim CEO of TTC Tour Brands. “From the timeless allure of cultural hubs like Italy, France, and Japan to the scenic tranquility of less explored regions of the English countryside and Scandinavia, our booking trends highlight travellers’ growing desire for both immersive experiences and natural serenity.”
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