#Singapore #Trip.com Group #Asia-Pacific #Labour Day

Significant Growth in Cross-Border Travel During May Labour Day Holiday

The Labour Day holiday period continues to be a key time for travel in the Asia-Pacific region, with recent data revealing notable trends and shifts among travelers.

Rising Popularity Among Travellers

According to a recent report from Trip.com Group, there has been a substantial increase in the number of people venturing on vacations during this holiday, especially among countries like Japan, China, and Vietnam. This year, travelers from these nations have seized the opportunity presented by extended public holidays to plan both domestic and international getaways. The report indicates that many travelers are capitalizing on the long weekend by combining public holidays with annual leave, which has contributed to the standout travel patterns.

Shifting Preferences in Accommodation

In terms of places to stay, there has been a marked evolution in accommodation preferences. Tourists are increasingly moving away from conventional hotels and are opting for alternative options such as villas, apartments, and inns. This trend has seen a remarkable surge in bookings for these types of stays, with growth rates reaching into the triple digits in markets including South Korea, Thailand, and Hong Kong. Locations noted for their natural beauty, such as areas by scenic lakes, stunning mountains, and national parks, have become highly sought after. Popular spots include Japan's hot springs and picturesque views of Mt. Fuji. Travelers are particularly attracted to coastal areas for villa stays, highlighting their preference for ocean views and beach access. Bali has notably seen increased demand for its beachfront villas.

Nature-Based and Aesthetic Destinations

The shift towards nature-based experiences is also significant, with searches for such destinations witnessing impressive growth. Travelers are seeking out aesthetically pleasing escapes that can offer tranquility and deep connections with nature, indicating a broader trend towards wellness travel.

Regional Travel Dynamics

The cross-border travel landscape remains dynamic, especially for nations like China and Japan. During Labour Day, China boasts an extensive five-day holiday, while Japan's 'Golden Week' spans from late April through early May. Trip.com analysis shows that destinations including Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore are seeing increased travel from both countries.

Conversely, travelers from South Korea and Vietnam are also experiencing longer vacation times, enhancing the appeal for travel. Vietnam celebrated its Reunification Day alongside Labour Day, leading to more than a 190% jump in domestic bookings. For South Korea, the impact of extended holidays resulted in a similar increase, further encouraging cross-border travel.

The Rise of Multi-City Itineraries

Amid the growing trend for exploration, there has been an increase in multi-city itineraries, with a 60% uptick in bookings for trips featuring two or more cities as travelers seek to make the most of their holidays. These itineraries often revolve around clusters of connected cities, leading visitors from places like Malaysia to explore both Chengdu and Chongqing in China. The trend is also prevalent among Japanese tourists who are combining cities such as Osaka and Kyoto.

As the preference for long-haul flights increases, flights longer than six hours are witnessing substantial growth, especially among South Korean travelers. They have shown a marked interest in journeys combining cities like London and Paris, infusing their travel with cultural richness.

Culinary and Cultural Experiences

In addition to the appeal of travel destinations, food experiences are gaining immense popularity, with a significant rise in culinary searches across Asia. Local cuisines are increasingly influencing the choice of travel destinations, underscoring the blend of culinary and travel experiences. Popular culinary destinations such as Osaka and Tokyo have seen interest peak, reflective of the robust cultural fabric that travelers wish to engage with.

Conclusion

The Labour Day holiday of 2025 has emerged as a pivotal moment for travel in the Asia-Pacific region, highlighting shifts in traveler preferences toward nature retreats, alternative accommodations, and enriching cultural experiences. This year is a testament to the transformation taking place within the travel industry, as modern travelers embrace a broader spectrum of choices on their journeys.

About Trip.com Group

Trip.com Group is recognized globally as a prominent travel service provider. Founded in 1999, it operates under several brands, including Trip.com, Ctrip, and Skyscanner. With the mission to facilitate the perfect trip, Trip.com offers resources and customer support for travelers around the globe.