Expedia's International Travel Trends for Summer 2025
Expedia has unveiled its much-anticipated rankings for the top international travel destinations for the summer of 2025, drawing insights from extensive search data. This summer, the increase in travelers looking for overseas vacations is notable, with search traffic rising by 110% compared to the previous year.
Top Picks for 2025
Among the top ten destinations, Honolulu retains its number one spot, demonstrating its unrelenting popularity among travelers. Other significant entries include Paris at sixth, Los Angeles at ninth, and Orange County at tenth, reflecting a shift towards longer-distance travel as opposed to the previous year's trends focusing on nearer Asian cities like Seoul and Taipei. This indicates a growing inclination to explore far-flung locations during the summer rather than sticking solely to regional travel.
Rising Stars in Southeast Asia
In the list of destinations gaining traction, two islands from Southeast Asia have emerged prominently. First is Sumatra, home to the world's largest caldera lake, which topped the popularity increase ranking, followed closely by Phu Quoc, the largest island in Vietnam at third. Both destinations cater well to the wellness travel trend with opportunities for trekking in national parks and observing wildlife, making them appealing for tourists seeking rejuvenation and adventure.
Hotel Selection Trends
When planning accommodation, travelers are increasingly opting for hotels featuring amenities like kitchens or kitchenettes and complimentary airport transfers. The top filters used by users while searching for hotels this summer include pools, ocean views, and the aforementioned kitchen facilities, highlighting the importance of budget-conscious decisions driven by current economic conditions. This focus on cost-effective lodging reflects a desire to reduce expenses on meals and local transportation while enjoying the summer getaway.
The Appeal of Southern Hemisphere Destinations
For those looking to escape the summer heat in Japan, the cooler climates of the Southern Hemisphere present an attractive alternative. The top three destinations for summer 2025 are all major cities in Australia, including Sydney, which offers a family-friendly atmosphere with abundant tourist attractions. Gold Coast, ranked second, is famous for its beautiful beaches and adventure parks, while Melbourne, known for its vibrant arts scene and culinary diversity, ranks third, making it an attractive option for culture enthusiasts.
Special Considerations for the Obon Holiday
The upcoming Obon holiday presents an opportunity for an extended vacation, with potential for up to nine consecutive days off. However, travelers are cautioned about peak travel days, particularly from August 8 to 10, which are predicted to be significantly busier than the least crowded date of August 17, with crowds possibly increasing up to sixfold on the most congested days. To avoid the hustle and bustle, taking leave around August 15 is strongly suggested to ensure a more relaxed travel experience.
Exciting Promotions and Discounts
In light of the anticipated travel boom, Expedia is launching the “Summer Travel Special Sale,” effective from June 26, offering significant discounts of at least 25% on hotels in popular destinations like Honolulu, Seoul, and Singapore. Additionally, their “Korea Travel Support Campaign” is currently underway, providing discounts and coupons that further enhance travel affordability.
Travelers looking forward to summer 2025 can find comprehensive information and updates about promotions and destinations through
Expedia’s official campaign site. The summer of 2025 promises to be an exciting time for travel, filled with opportunities for adventure and cultural exploration.