#Singapore #Trip.com Group #travel trends #Lunar New Year

Lunar New Year 2025 Travel Trends by Trip.com Group

As the Lunar New Year approaches in 2025, families and friends around the globe are preparing for a festive season filled with exploration and connection. Recognized as the Year of the Snake, this year's celebration emphasizes transformation, intuition, and meaningful experiences. With the travel industry rebounding, Trip.com Group has uncovered intriguing trends that highlight how travelers are increasingly favoring longer stays, off-the-beaten-path destinations, and immersive experiences.

Extended Stays and Cross-Border Travel Boom

This year's introduction of public holidays has resulted in a notable rise in cross-border travel. Data indicates that travelers are combining their holidays with annual leave, leading to extended stays that can reach up to 10% longer than previous years. For example, Chinese mainland travelers benefit from an 11-day vacation by taking just two days off, while travelers from Korea and Singapore can create holidays of nine and five days, respectively. Popular LNY destinations include Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and various locations within mainland China.

The trend toward exploring distant shores is evident as medium and long-haul flights gain popularity, particularly among travelers from Malaysia and South Korea, with increases of up to 60% in bookings compared to prior years. There is significant excitement around visiting lesser-known locations, including Giza, San Luis Obispo, and Charenton-le-Pont, as travelers seek unique adventures away from typical tourist spots. In Asia, cities like Funabashi, Okinawa, and Ibaraki are becoming appealing alternatives for families and adventurers alike.

The Rise of Family Travel

Family reunions are at the heart of Lunar New Year traditions, and many families this year are opting for exciting group adventures at both sea and land-based attractions. Cruises have seen explosive growth, especially among travelers from the Chinese mainland and Singapore, with family-friendly accommodations growing by 400%. Ports such as Shanghai, Singapore, and Dubai have emerged as popular cruise destinations, while guests are drawn to family-oriented experiences at locations like Fukuoka, Jeju, and Phuket.

In parallel, bookings for family entertainment have surged, with child tickets for attractions increasing by 42%. Notable family-favored destinations like Universal Studios Japan and Hong Kong Disneyland are experiencing a surge in popularity as families look to create treasured memories together.

Blending Luxury with Value

In their quest for memorable travel experiences, adventurers are embracing a balanced approach that melds luxury with value. There has been a marked increase in the number of bookings for four and five-star accommodations, with Malaysia leading this trend. In Japan, travelers are now leaning toward alternative lodging options, including cozy Ryokans and homestays.

Booking patterns reveal a willingness to splurge on premium experiences this season, with double-digit growth in business and first-class flights. Singaporeans, in particular, have shown a staggering 400% increase in first-class bookings, reflecting a growing trend among travelers to enhance their travel experience with comfort and style.

Inbound Travel Insights

Inbound travel to mainland China is witnessing a remarkable increase, with booking rates soaring over 200%. This growth is fueled by travelers from countries such as South Korea, Japan, and the US, who are flocking to major cities like Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou while also exploring lesser-known urban spots. Recent changes in visa policies enabling easier travel contribute to this growth and attraction.

In a bid to enhance the travel experience for inbound tourists, Trip.com Group has launched its second free layover tour, the 'Beijing Express.' This initiative invites travelers transiting through Beijing to engage in half-day tours that showcase the city’s rich history and cultural treasures from the Great Wall to Tian'anmen Square. Additionally, attraction bookings for LNY have skyrocketed, signifying an increased interest in cultural experiences during this festive season.

Conclusion

As we look ahead to Lunar New Year 2025, the prevailing trends reflect a shift in traveler priorities from conventional to extraordinary. With longer stays, a focus on family travel, and a desire for unique experiences, this year promises to envelop travelers in the rich tapestry of cultures while creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.