Larroque Haute Gites, Cassagnes, France

A staple of rural travel in France, gites are self-catering stays dotted amongst the French countryside or located in smaller villages. With searches for gites up 20% amongst global travelers, these often-restored stone buildings or barns provide a more authentic connection to the local area and a taste of traditional French living. Gites originated from the French word "gesir" (to lie down) and trace their heritage to centuries of rural hospitality, when farmers, vintners and shepherds rented spare rooms or converted barns to passing travelers in areas without formal lodging.

Set in the Cassagnes countryside, Larroque Haute Gites is a beautifully restored stone property that pairs traditional French character with bright, modern interiors. Original stone walls and exposed wooden beams celebrate the property's heritage, while stylish, modern living spaces provide every comfort. The two-bedroom property features a heated swimming pool, expansive gardens and peaceful outdoor seating areas, offering uninterrupted views across the surrounding woodland and rolling countryside. The broader Dordogne region is known for its vineyards, medieval towns and scenic walking routes, offering plenty of opportunities to explore beyond the property. Visitors to the region can dive into exploring the area on a canoe tour of the Dordogne Valley, moving through the gentle waters from Vitrac to take in the area’s natural beauty. Nearby villages host regular markets selling regional produce, while the surrounding Lot countryside is great for walking, cycling and vineyard visits.

Takaragawa Onsen Ousenkaku, Minakami, Japan

Steeped in centuries of tradition, ryokans remain one of Japan’s most distinctive accommodation types with global searches for them on Booking.com increasing by 9%. Ryokans, which date back to the 8th century,were resting places for Japan's nomads, are architecturally and philosophically centered around the onsen (natural hot spring) bathing ritual, with entire layouts designed around seasonal awareness and natural harmony. Combining hospitality, wellness and a deep connection to the surrounding nature, the inns usually incorporate tatami rooms, futon style beds and Japanese-style baths.

Takaragawa Onsen Ousenkaku ryokan is known for its expansive outdoor hot spring baths, which sit amid forests and natural scenery on the Takara river north of Minakami. Inside, simple yet elegant rooms reflect traditional Japanese design, with futon beds, low seating and tatami mat floors creating a calm retreat alongside the property's mineral-rich onsen baths. Traditional hospitality is woven throughout the stay, from yukata robes to seasonal meals showcasing ingredients from the surrounding mountain region. Against a backdrop of surrounding mountains and woodland, guests can soak while taking in views that are particularly striking in autumn, when the forests turn vibrant shades of red and gold, and in winter when snow blankets the landscape. A short journey from the property, visitors can explore Minakami's rivers and mountain trails, while nearby ski resorts and hiking routes make the area popular throughout the year.

Villa Tulia, Matemwe, Zanzibar, Tanzania

Traditionally used to describe a country retreat, Villas offer travelers space, privacy and flexibility beyond a traditional hotel stay. Villas have become an increasingly popular accommodation choice for travelers looking to enjoy a destination on their own terms, with searches up 8%. From intimate 2-bedroom hideaways to expansive estates for large groups - with dedicated amenities like private pools, kitchens and outdoor entertaining spaces, there’s a villa to suit every type of trip

Villa Tulia is a beachfront retreat in Matemwe, a quiet-coastal village on the northeastern shore of Zanzibar’s main island Unguja. With space for up to eight guests, the villa is well suited to families and groups, with spacious indoor and outdoor living areas providing plenty of room for everyone to relax. Blending privacy with direct access to the island's natural beauty, the property showcases why villas are a popular choice for tropical vacations. Travelers can explore the coastline by boat, discover local villages or enjoy some of Zanzibar's most celebrated marine experiences including snorkeling in nearby Mnemba Atoll, known for its clear waters that are perfect for seeing vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Boat trips, reef snorkeling and visits to nearby fishing villages provide plenty to fill the days, before returning to meals prepared by a private chef overlooking white-sand beaches and turquoise waters.

Puerto Dreams H, Puerto Escondido, Mexico

Once the haunt of budget backpackers, hostels today often combine affordability with community and convenience, making them popular with travelers from all walks of life. The rise of “poshtels” means many now offer stylish, boutique feel rather than basic bunks and searches for hostels globally is up 40% YoY on Booking.com. Hostels lead with conversation-enabling design: open kitchens, communal dining tables, garden courtyards, co-working lounges and rooftop gathering spaces positioned as primary booking motivations rather than afterthoughts.

Located in the laid-back surf town of Puerto Escondido on the Pacific Coast of Oaxaca, Mexico, Puerto Dreams H is known for its welcoming atmosphere, colorful communal spaces with vibrant murals and mix of private and shared rooms. Shared kitchens, co-working areas and organised activities including rooftop dance classes or group excursions allow guests to connect with the local wildlife while providing the perfect backdrop to meet fellow travelers. For a taste of local culture, visitors can join the Tequila and Mezcal Tasting, learning about the heritage behind two of Mexico's best-known spirits while sampling regional flavours. Those looking to spend more time outdoors can also visit the nearby Hidden Port, on a Bioluminescent Night Tour with the chance to witness the water glow after sunset in one of Puerto Escondido's most memorable natural experiences. This property makes the perfect resting place to come back to between surf lessons, beach hopping and evenings spent sampling mezcal with fellow travelers.

Zion View Camping, Hildale, Utah

There's something truly magical about falling asleep under a canopy of stars. Searches for camping accommodation is up 6% YOY, appealing to travelers seeking an authentic and immersive connection to the outdoors. Today there’s a whole spectrum of camping style accommodations from traditional back-to-basics pre-pitched tents to "glamping"luxury yurts that bring together wilderness immersion with hotel-standard comfort.

Zion View Camping on the Utah-Arizona border delivers on outdoor connection, without compromising on comfort. Here, travelers will experience panoramic views of stunning red rock landscapes, soaring mountains and endless desert scenery, coupled with spacious outdoor areas and communal gathering spaces that foster genuine connection. The property's peaceful setting makes it easy to switch off and soak up the natural surroundings, while its proximity to nearby attractions ensures there's plenty to discover beyond the grounds. Just a short drive from Zion National Park, the site is well placed for discovering the area's famous hiking trails, canyons and viewpoints. For those seeking a little more adventure, a UTV Slot Canyon Tour offers access to rugged desert landscapes and dramatic slot canyons beyond the national park.

*Travel Predictions 2026 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total, 29,733 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled (including 1,009 from Argentina, 1,005 from Australia, 500 from Austria, 1,013 from Belgium, 1,008 from Brazil, 1,018 from Canada, 1,009 from China, 1,005 from Colombia, 508 from Croatia, 501 from Denmark, 1,010 from France, 1,003 from Germany, 1,004 from Hong Kong, 1,007 from India, 509 from Ireland, 507 from Israel, 1,005 from Italy, 1,003 from Japan, 1,003 from Mexico, 1,019 from The Netherlands, 1,033 from New Zealand, 1,006 from Portugal, 500 from Singapore, 1,003 from South Korea, 1,009 from Spain, 511 from Sweden, 501 from Switzerland, 504 from Taiwan, 1,001 from Thailand, 501 from the UAE, 2,003 from the UK, 2,010 from the US and 505 from Vietnam). Respondents completed an online survey in July-August 2025.

**Research was commissioned by Booking.com and independently conducted among a sample of adults who had taken a leisure trip in the last 12 months with an overnight stay and plan to travel in 2026. The sample comprised 32,800 respondents across 34 markets surveyed in January 2026.

***Top trending property types for homes properties based on searches 1 May - 10 August 2026 for check in dates 1 August - 31 December 2026 comparing same dates YoY.

As year-end approaches and unused annual leave lingers, Booking.com is highlighting stunning getaways located just a stone’s throw from some of the world’s busiest cities - helping travelers transform remaining vacation days into unforgettable mini-trips.

Santa Elena, Colombia

Tucked away in the Antioquian highlands, Cabaña con Jacuzzi en Santa Elena is a private, compact mountain cabin that offers a serene escape from the high-energy pulse of Medellín. Only 45 - 50 minute drive from central Medellín, it features a private jacuzzi terrace with panoramic views overlooking the dramatic ridgeline, the property blends rustic-modern interiors with an open fire and BBQ grill. September offers perfectly balanced weather, making it an ideal window for couples looking to explore nearby ecological treasures. Active weekenders can use this as a base to hike through the iconic Piedras Blancas Ecological Park or venture into the Arví Nature Reserve (Parque Arví) - a sprawling cloud forest sanctuary celebrated for its rich biodiversity, ancient trails, and native orchid species. Here, travelers can mountain bike through protected pine forests or visit traditional silletera flower farms that showcase the true cultural heritage of the region. After a day of outdoor exploration, the outdoor jacuzzi serves as the ultimate recovery ritual.

Bowral, Australia

As the Southern Hemisphere heads into the lush warmth of early summer, Sydney travelers can escape to the historical elegance of the Southern Highlands. Built in 1928, Links House Bowral seamlessly combines vintage English country style with sophisticated modern amenities. Surrounded by immaculate manicured gardens, open fireplaces, and intimate sitting rooms, it provides a deeply romantic, nostalgic base tailored exclusively for adults. The property sits just minutes away from the vibrant early spring blooms of Corbett Gardens, while September offers an uncrowded window to experience the region's premium boutique wineries and farm-to-table dining scene. Considering 69%* of couples travelers prioritizing ease of travel and accessibility, a seamless 90-minute drive south from Sydney transforms a standard weekend into an upscale gastronomic retreat before the end-of-year rush fills your calendar.

The Catskills, USA

An effortless escape from Manhattan, these secluded woodland cabins are nestled among nature in the tranquil heart of the Catskills. Designed specifically as a digital-detox retreat, Postcard Cabins Eastern Catskills features warm timber interiors, a signature picture window looking straight into the forest canopy, private outdoor fire pits, and modern couple-centric comforts, delivering an authentic off-the-grid atmosphere without sacrificing modern couple-centric comforts. September marks the beginning of the spectacular autumn foliage transition, creating an intimate setting for outdoor recreation where travelers can spend their days hiking surrounding mountain trails, gathering around the campfire, or admiring the changing leaves. By securing a car right from the city, travelers can transition from the urban grid to lakeside tranquility in under two hours, making the most of their well hard-earned long-weekend away.

Upper Slaughter, Gloucestershire, UK

Situated in one of the most picturesque, historic market towns in Gloucestershire, The Architects Home is a newly renovated, architect-designed Cotswolds home offers a stylish, peaceful weekend respite just 1.5 hours out of London. Characterized by its seamless blend of contemporary design, warm natural textures, and light-filled open spaces, the property provides a luxurious home-away-from-home ambiance tailored for quiet reflection and relaxation. The home serves as an ideal base for a relaxed, food-centric couple's long weekend, situated right on the doorstep of Chipping Campden’s famous high street, cozy traditional pubs, and scenic walking trails into the surrounding countryside. For a touch of grand historic exploration, travelers can enrich their itinerary by booking tickets to tour the magnificent nearby Blenheim Palace, Park and Gardens - a UNESCO World Heritage Site located just a short, scenic drive away.

*Research was commissioned by Booking.com and independently conducted among a sample of adults who had taken a leisure trip in the last 12 months with an overnight stay and plan to travel in 2026. The sample comprised 32,800 respondents across 34 markets surveyed in January 2026.

From filming TikToks (33%) to keeping up with your daily step count in the air (24%) new research from Booking.com reveals the modern in-flight habits frustrating passengers most - as travellers become increasingly divided over what’s acceptable behaviour at 30,000ft.

The findings reveal a growing “home-from-home” mentality in the cabin, with two thirds (67%) of travellers admitting they behave no differently on a plane than they do at home, bringing once-private habits into shared travel spaces.

While many are quick to call out these sky-high slip-ups, the research reveals a more contradictory reality. Despite 89% believing passengers should behave as they would on any other form of public transport, one in ten (11%) admit to kicking off their shoes and going barefoot during a flight. However, passengers are even more likely to take issue with what others bring on board, with pungent foods proving an even bigger bugbear (43%). Sushi (38%), garlic-heavy dishes (32%) and boiled eggs (31%) were named among the worst offenders.

Over three quarters (76%) admit comfort is their top priority when flying – something which becomes particularly important on long-haul journeys, where passengers share a confined space for many hours. And with Booking.com flight search data showing Bangkok as the top searched long-haul flight destination this summer by Brits – good in-flight etiquette is more important than ever.**

While some modern in-flight habits are harmless, others are leaving passengers increasingly frustrated. Yet despite the growing tensions in the cabin, most travellers still prefer to avoid confrontation. 31% say they would rather quietly tolerate irritating behaviour than speak up, instead venting to friends or family after the flight (36%).

To help navigate these changing norms, Booking.com has partnered with the Queen of Etiquette, Laura Windsor to decode the most talked-about in-flight behaviours - separating what’s acceptable from what should stay grounded.

Laura Windsor, Booking.com’s Etiquette Expert says “Flying has always been a shared experience, but what we’re seeing now is a shift towards people treating it more like their own personal space. Comfort is important, especially on longer journeys, but it should never come at the expense of those around you.

“Sometimes, it’s the smallest in-flight habits that make the biggest difference - whether that’s saving your aisle yoga flow for the terminal, keeping your seatmate out of your TikTok content, or treating the cabin like a shared space rather than your living room. A little self-awareness at 30,000 feet goes a long way.”

The top 10 most annoying passenger behaviours

1. Watching films / videos or listening to music without headphones (43%)
2. Bringing a strong-smelling or messy meal on board (43%)
3. Being leant over / have someone get too close so they take a picture or film out of the window (42%)
4. Filming social media content or TikToks during a flight (33%)
5. Getting caught in someone else’s filming for social media (30%)
6. Going barefoot during the flight (25%)
7. Walking up and down in the aisle to keep up with a daily step count or fitness goals (24%)
8. Performing or stretching or yoga in the aisle (23%)
9. Doing a manicure e.g., painting their nails, cutting or filing their nails (23%)
10. Using dental floss (18%)

Ryan Pearson, UK and Ireland Regional Manager at Booking.com says: “The way we fly is changing. Travel annoyances are no longer limited to reclining seats or aisle-hoggers before the doors open - there's a whole new set of rules to navigate. At Booking.com, we're here to make every part of the journey easier, and we hope this etiquette guide serves as a gentle reminder for everyone sharing the skies to stay mindful of other flyers.”

Whether you’re a barefoot stretcher or TikTok creator, Booking.com offers flights for every kind of traveller. To find your next trip, visit www.booking.com.

Note to editors

* Survey conducted by Opinium, 5th - 9th June, 2026. Sample: 1,000 British adults who have taken an international fight in the last year.

** Flight searches between 01.01.26 to 30.06.26 for flights between 01.07.26 to 15.09.26

About Booking.com

Part of Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: BKNG), Booking.com’s mission is to make it easier for everyone to experience the world. By investing in the technology that helps take the friction out of travel, Booking.com’s marketplace seamlessly connects millions of travellers with memorable experiences every day. For more information, follow @bookingcom on social media or visit news.booking.com.

Jeju, South Korea

Just beyond South Korea’s southern coastline, Jeju Island is a volcanic paradise, known not only for its lava landscapes, citrus groves and waterfalls, but also for its renowned beauty traditions. As the home of many of the natural ingredients that underpin the global K-beauty phenomenon, it’s the kind of destination where travelers may want to leave extra room in their suitcase for skincare finds. A true beauty bucket list destination, the island’s skincare rituals harness volcanic minerals and marine ingredients in treatments designed to hydrate, soothe and brighten the skin. Travelers can experience volcanic ash detox facials and microneedling therapies infused with native botanicals like green tea, camellia and wild orchid. Beyond the spa, Jeju’s café culture showcases local flavours through honey, tangerine and green tea-infused drinks, while the scenic Jeju Olle Trail (a 437 km, 272 mile long loop) winds past dramatic coastlines, fishing villages and the island’s iconic haenyeo free divers. A tour of Seongsan Ilchulbong, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on Jeju Island is also not one to miss. 

Where to stay: Perched along Jeju’s picturesque Aewol coastline, Ddosi Aewol Pool Villa is a sanctuary of beauty and tranquillity. With a private pool, outdoor jacuzzis, and a balcony providing uninterrupted sea views, each villa is designed for restorative moments inspired by the island’s natural landscapes. 

Fez, Morocco

Located in northern Morocco, most people associate Fez with its culture and history, from its medina, historic old town, riads, courtyard houses, and the traditional brimless red hats, referred to as a tarboosh, or more commonly fez. In addition to its character, Fez is renowned for beauty rituals that have been woven into daily Moroccan life for centuries. More than simply a wellness experience, hammams are an important part of the country’s social and community culture, where locals gather to cleanse, unwind and connect. Home to more than 100 bathhouses, including the historic Hammam Seffarine in Seffarine Square, the city offers travelers an authentic immersion into Moroccan self-care traditions, whether opting for a rustic neighbourhood hammam or a more refined spa setting. Steam rooms, exfoliating scrubs and cooling plunges work to deeply cleanse, nourish skin and hair, and restore both body and mind. While visiting Fez, travelers are also encouraged to take a walking tour to explore the city’s maze-like souks, artisan workshops and historic landmarks, pausing for Moroccan mint tea and local delicacies like honey and sesame coated chebakia pastries. 

Where to stay: Located in the heart of the Medina of Fez, Riad Fes is a traditional courtyard property, with the option of standard rooms or suites and complete with a spa offering authentic hammam rituals. A tranquil escape from the bustling streets, guests can take in panoramic views of the Medina and Atlas Mountains from the rooftop terrace and retreat to beautiful rooms with hand-carved cedar ceilings featuring zellige tilework, traditional Moroccan mosaic.

Budapest, Hungary

Straddling the Danube River, Budapest is known for its striking architecture, from the hilltop towers of Fisherman’s Bastion to the Gothic spires of the Hungarian Parliament. But beyond the mesmerizing scenery, the city is hailed as the ‘spa capital’ of Europe, most commonly recognized for its thermal bathing culture, as mineral-rich waters flow from more than 100 natural hot springs beneath the city. At the iconic Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of Europe’s largest thermal spa complexes, travelers can unwind across 18 different pools and six saunas, offering everything from bracingly cold plunge pools to mineral-rich thermal soaking tubs. All of these baths are set within a grand neo-baroque palace inspired by centuries-old Roman bathing traditions. After a restorative soak, why not wander the cobblestone streets of the Castle District and catch a glimpse of the Buda Castle, which makes up a prominent part of Budapest’s city skyline. 

Where to stay: Set beside Budapest’s iconic Oktogon intersection, Sweet Dreams at Oktogon Downtown is a loft style studio apartment designed for a cozy city stay. Featuring a main-floor bedroom mezzanine lounge and full kitchen, the compact space offers a comfortable and relaxed base perfect for couples or solo travelers looking to explore Budapest’s historic sights and thermal baths from the heart of the city. 

Antalya, Turkey

With the Taurus Mountains on one side and the Mediterranean on the other, Antalya, Turkey has evolved from a historic Roman port into one of Europe’s most in-demand destinations for cosmetic and wellness travel. Alongside the cobbled streets of Kaleiçi and the city’s ancient ruins, travelers will find established clinics specialising in treatments ranging from hair transplants to cosmetic dentistry, often paired with resort-style recovery stays along the coast. The city has also become known for its wellness and longevity retreats, where programmes combine therapies such as IV vitamin infusions, ozone therapy and platelet-rich plasma treatments with a slower-paced Mediterranean setting. Between appointments, visitors can explore nearby waterfalls, take coastal boat trips or spend time wandering Antalya’s historic harbour and old town. 

Where to stay: Set alongside Antalya’s cliffside coastline, Akra Antalya combines Mediterranean seaviews with a strong focus on wellness. Home to TheLifeCo wellness centre, the hotel offers therapies ranging from IV treatments to personalised aesthetic care, alongside six pools, tennis courts, a private beach and modern decorated rooms overlooking the Mediterranean and Taurus Mountains. 

Santiago, Chile

Nestled beneath the Andes Mountains and along the Mapocho River, Santiago is best known for its nearby wine regions, but the city has also developed a wellness scene shaped by local ingredients and vinotherapy treatments. Many of the city’s leading spas can be found in the upscale neighbourhoods of Vitacura, Las Condes and Providencia, where treatments draw on Chile’s winemaking heritage, using grape seeds, vine extracts and antioxidant-rich grape marc in scrubs, facials and restorative baths designed to boost circulation and nourish the skin. Many treatments also incorporate regional ingredients such as quinoa, avocado oil and volcanic minerals sourced from the surrounding landscape and were initially embraced by the Incas over 600 years ago. For travelers looking for a complete wine experience, beyond just grape-rich skin treatments, Maipo Valley Wine Tour, just a 40-minute drive from the centre, will allow visitors to experience everything from centenary cellars, vineyards and full wine production from big industries to family boutique wineries. 

Where to stay: Set in Santiago’s leafy Providencia district, Hotel Boutique Le Rêve provides a quiet retreat within one of the city’s liveliest neighborhoods. The intimate 31-room boutique hotel features a secluded Parisian-style patio, in-room massages, plush bedrooms and marble bathrooms, alongside thoughtful touches including an honesty bar and complimentary midnight snacks. 

*Travel Predictions 2026 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total, 29,733 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled (including 1,009 from Argentina, 1,005 from Australia, 500 from Austria, 1,013 from Belgium, 1,008 from Brazil, 1,018 from Canada, 1,009 from China, 1,005 from Colombia, 508 from Croatia, 501 from Denmark, 1,010 from France, 1,003 from Germany, 1,004 from Hong Kong, 1,007 from India, 509 from Ireland, 507 from Israel, 1,005 from Italy, 1,003 from Japan, 1,003 from Mexico, 1,019 from The Netherlands, 1,033 from New Zealand, 1,006 from Portugal, 500 from Singapore, 1,003 from South Korea, 1,009 from Spain, 511 from Sweden, 501 from Switzerland, 504 from Taiwan, 1,001 from Thailand, 501 from the UAE, 2,003 from the UK, 2,010 from the US and 505 from Vietnam). Respondents completed an online survey in July-August 2025.

Rental cars will soon hit the open road en masse, with 1 in 4 (26%) planning to take a road trip, drawn to the spontaneity and flexibility (79%), and better cost (39%).

But the journey does not always run smoothly: confusing terms and conditions, unclear pick-up requirements and unwanted surprises have made car rentals a common source of friction for travelers.

With the help of AI, Booking.com is making the process easier, from discovery and booking to car reservation management and support.

Car Rentals with Booking.com app in ChatGPT
The Booking.com app in ChatGPT now lets travelers browse and find the perfect rental car.

The app lets ChatGPT users, globally, describe what they’re looking for (e.g. “an automatic SUV in Mallorca”), and receive relevant options to browse. When they’ve made their choice, they are seamlessly redirected to Booking.com to complete their reservation.

AI Car Rental Helper
Beyond search, Booking.com's latest innovations are designed to simplify every stage of the car rental experience from booking to trip management.

Data shows a high number of car rental bookings result in follow-up customer service calls. To simplify the process – and avoid surprises – Booking.com’s AI Car Rental Helper helps instantly answer common questions about their rental booking. Payment methods, pick up checklists, insurance information and more, the tool provides key information, 24/7, for a smooth and simple pick up and drop off. Early testing led to fewer customer support calls, reservation changes and disrupted pickups

From today, the AI Car Rental Helper is available to French, Spanish (including Catalan), German, Dutch and Italian-speaking customers globally, as well as English speakers in the UK, US, Australia, New Zealand and Singapore.

AI Car Rental Review Summaries
AI-generated review summaries on Booking.com make it easier for travelers to understand what to expect from a rental supplier to help inform their booking decision. Drawing on recent reviews from travelers, they highlight relevant themes (e.g. service, cleanliness, location, parking and amenities) without the need to endlessly browse through hundreds of individual entries.

These summaries provide a faster, more transparent way to compare options and make confident bookings. Currently available in English to travellers in the UK, US, Australia, New Zealand and Singapore, with more languages coming soon.

Smart Search
Smart Search introduces more specific filter options to car rental search, making it easier for travelers to quickly find vehicles that match their specific needs. Travelers can now filter by preferences such as number of seats, automatic transmission and unlimited mileage, reducing the time spent browsing through less relevant options and helping them make faster, more informed booking decisions. Now available in English globally.

“Car rentals remain an important part of many travel journeys.” said Eve Henrikson, SVP of Trips at Booking.com. “With these latest AI-powered features, we aim to make it even easier for customers to both search and book car rentals and ensure they have a seamless experience when they pick up their car - so they can hit the road faster this peak season.”

These latest innovations reflect how Booking.com’s AI tools are continuing to evolve to support travelers at the most relevant moments throughout their booking and travel journey.

*Travel Trends research was commissioned by Booking.com and independently conducted among a sample of adults who had taken a leisure trip in the last 12 months with an overnight stay and plan to travel in 2026. The sample comprised 32,800 respondents across 34 markets surveyed in January 2026.

**Travel Predictions 2026 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total, 29,733 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled (including 1,009 from Argentina, 1,005 from Australia, 500 from Austria, 1,013 from Belgium, 1,008 from Brazil, 1,018 from Canada, 1,009 from China, 1,005 from Colombia, 508 from Croatia, 501 from Denmark, 1,010 from France, 1,003 from Germany, 1,004 from Hong Kong, 1,007 from India, 509 from Ireland, 507 from Israel, 1,005 from Italy, 1,003 from Japan, 1,003 from Mexico, 1,019 from The Netherlands, 1,033 from New Zealand, 1,006 from Portugal, 500 from Singapore, 1,003 from South Korea, 1,009 from Spain, 511 from Sweden, 501 from Switzerland, 504 from Taiwan, 1,001 from Thailand, 501 from the UAE, 2,003 from the UK, 2,010 from the US and 505 from Vietnam). Respondents completed an online survey in July-August 2025.

Knoxville,  Tennessee,  United States

Each spring, visitors head to Knoxville in eastern Tennessee, the perfect nearby base for trips into the Great Smoky Mountains to witness one of nature’s most enchanting displays: the Firefly Synchronization. Visible for just eight nights each year, this rare phenomenon sees thousands of fireflies glow in perfect unison, making it all the more special for those lucky enough to experience it. As the glow of the fireflies dissipates and morning arrives, guests can embark on a Jeep tour to discover the natural beauty of the mountain habitat or may opt for aerial views on a helicopter adventure. Returning to Knoxville, those wanting to enjoy more of the bustling and bold city energy infused with southern comfort and country music are encouraged to explore downtown, visiting independently run coffee and artisanal ice cream shops, while chatting to the locals that capture the city’s Southern charm.

Where to stay: Nestled in the heart of downtown Knoxville, The Oliver Hotel Knoxville dates back to 1876. With just 28 boutique rooms, it strikes a perfect balance between luxury and intimate charm. Heritage‑led interiors are brought to life through statement lighting, striking upholstery, custom furnishings and curated artwork. A hidden speakeasy bar adds a distinctive touch making it a refined & cultured base for travelers keen to explore the best of this vibrant mountain town.

Maasai Mara,  Kenya

Set in south-west Kenya, the Masai Mara National Reserve is one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations, known for its vast savannahs, rolling hills and wildlife-rich plains. From July to October the landscape becomes the stage for one of the natural world’s most extraordinary spectacles: the Great Migration. During these months, millions of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles move across the Mara in search of fresh grazing, with stealthy predators such as lions, leopards and cheetahs never far behind. It’s a dramatic, awe-inspiring display of survival in the wild. Brimming with life year-round, the Masai Mara offers travelers an unforgettable window into the natural world, whether on a private guided safari tour or drifting above the plains on a balloon safari. Beyond the dramatic migration months, the reserve’s open savannahs and rich biodiversity inspire a deep sense of awe, bringing travelers closer to the untamed world. 

Where to stay:  Mara Serena Safari Lodge offers unforgettable views across the savannah. Inspired by the circular design of a traditional Maasai manyatta (a traditional Maasai homestead), the lodge blends authentic East African architecture with warm tones and handcrafted details. Perched high above the plains, the property balances seclusion with a unique front‑row access to the Masai Mara’s wild energy, with wildlife sightings often visible from guest rooms - making it an ideal retreat for travelers seeking an immersive stay.

Lofoten Islands,  Norway

Rising sharply from the Norwegian Sea, the Lofoten Islands are one of Europe’s most remarkable marine wildlife destinations, where jagged mountain peaks, sheltered fjords and crystal‑clear waters form a dramatic natural landscape. Each winter, as herring migrate into the surrounding fjords, killer whales, humpback whales and fin whales follow, transforming the region into the stage for a rare seasonal whale migration. This powerful spectacle offers travelers the chance to watch these ocean giants surface against snow‑dusted mountains. Beyond the wildlife, the remote chain of islands reveals moments of quiet stillness, with traditional fishing villages lining the shore beneath vast northern skies. Visitors can experience the migration on  silent boat tours that glide through the fjords. With nearly two‑thirds (62%**) of travelers keen to embark on trips to dark‑sky destinations, those looking to explore further can set out on a Northern Lights adventure, where vivid curtains of color often illuminate the night sky.

Where to stay: Situated on its own private island, Anker Brygge comprises 27 cozy traditional, wood-paneled Norwegian fishermen’s cabins, known in the local language as ‘rorbuer’. Its waterfront location and cozy restaurant serving traditional North Norwegian dishes make it the perfect base for family fjord excursions and whale-watching tours. 

Phetchaburi,  Thailand

Phetchaburi, a lesser‑explored province south‑west of Bangkok, is home to one of Thailand’s most important wildlife corridors where Asian elephants roam freely across protected habitats and forest reserves. Throughout the year, these gentle giants can be seen moving between feeding grounds, rivers, and forested lowlands, offering rare and meaningful encounters in their natural environment. These endangered species, protected through dedicated conservation efforts, offer a rare gift: the chance to witness massive herds moving majestically across vast landscapes, a breathtaking encounter that few experience in a lifetime. Travelers can explore the rich local landscape of dense forests and rolling hills on guided wildlife tours led by local experts, learning about elephant behavior and conservation. Travelers looking for a more exhilarating experience can take to the skies in a thrilling  tandem paragliding adventure above the forest canopies.

Where to stay: The luxury property Veranda Resort & Villas Hua Hin Cha Am pairs beachfront serenity and sunrise ocean views with easy access to nearby elephant habitats just a short drive away, allowing guests to blend national park adventures with laid‑back beach living. At the property, guests can immerse themselves in Thailand’s rich cuisine through interactive cooking classes or reconnect with nature through yoga practiced to the rhythm of the waves. 

La Paz,  Mexico

Set along the glittering waters of Baja California Sur, a coastal region in western Mexico, La Paz offers a front‑row seat to one of the ocean’s most exhilarating wildlife spectacles. From October to December, vast schools of sardines surge through the Sea of Cortez, shimmering in tightly packed formations as they migrate along the coastline. This movement triggers an underwater frenzy, as dolphins, sea lions, marlin, seabirds, and whales converge in pursuit, creating the phenomenon known as the Sardine Run. Travelers can witness this extraordinary display beneath the water’s surface, where swirling silver bait balls twist and pulse through the water in a dramatic dance of survival. Visitors can embark on guided boat expeditions and snorkeling experiences, offering a rare chance to observe the raw energy and interconnectedness of marine life in one of the most biodiverse seas on the planet. Travelers can learn more about La Paz’s diverse marine life up close on a whale shark snorkeling adventure led by a marine biologist who shares expert knowledge about the remarkable creatures, or explore the coastline on a guided horseback ride along the beach, taking in sweeping ocean views at a slower pace.

Where to stay: Located where the desert meets the Sea of Cortez,  Hotel Indigo La Paz Puerta Cortés is a romantic waterfront retreat overlooking the bay, ideal for couples seeking relaxed luxury and ocean views. Light‑filled rooms feature floor‑to‑ceiling glass doors opening onto expansive seascapes. An ideal base during the Sardine Run season, guests can unwind on the hotel’s private beach or in the spa between days on the water.

*Travel Predictions 2026 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total, 29,733 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled (including 1,009 from Argentina, 1,005 from Australia, 500 from Austria, 1,013 from Belgium, 1,008 from Brazil, 1,018 from Canada, 1,009 from China, 1,005 from Colombia, 508 from Croatia, 501 from Denmark, 1,010 from France, 1,003 from Germany, 1,004 from Hong Kong, 1,007 from India, 509 from Ireland, 507 from Israel, 1,005 from Italy, 1,003 from Japan, 1,003 from Mexico, 1,019 from The Netherlands, 1,033 from New Zealand, 1,006 from Portugal, 500 from Singapore, 1,003 from South Korea, 1,009 from Spain, 511 from Sweden, 501 from Switzerland, 504 from Taiwan, 1,001 from Thailand, 501 from the UAE, 2,003 from the UK, 2,010 from the US and 505 from Vietnam). Respondents completed an online survey in July-August 2025.

** Travel Predictions 2025 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total, 27,713 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled (including 1,016 from Argentina, 1,002 from Australia, 502 from Austria, 1,003 from Belgium, 1002 from Brazil, 1,006 from Canada, 1,007 from China, 1,005 from Colombia, 501 from Croatia, 501 from Denmark, 1,011 from France, 1,009 from Germany, 1,004 from Hong Kong, 1,002 from India, 506 from Ireland, 501 from Israel, 1,014 from Italy, 1008 from Japan, 1,013 from Mexico, 1011 from The Netherlands, 1003 from New Zealand, 504 from Portugal, 508 from Singapore, 1004 from South Korea, 1,008 from Spain, 509 from Sweden, 500 from Switzerland, 507 from Taiwan, 1,009 from Thailand, 503 from the UAE, 1,012 from the UK, 1,006 from the US and 1,016 from Vietnam). Respondents completed an online survey in July-August 2024.

Porto, Portugal

Renowned for its port wine, beautifully colored tinned seafood and richly layered heritage, Porto is a historic maritime city in northern Portugal where centuries of seafaring culture continue to shape local culinary traditions. Set along the banks of the Douro River where it meets the Atlantic Ocean, the city’s signature tinned seafood is deeply rooted in Portugal’s fishing history. A hub for canning factories in the 1900s, Porto once produced tens of thousands of tonnes of canned fish annually. Beyond Porto’s much-loved seafood tins, travelers won’t want to miss the UNESCO-listed “hillsides of Ribeira” waterfront district, with its steep, narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful stacked houses, baroque churches and lively cafés overlooking the river. In the evenings, the city’s cultural spirit comes alive through traditional Fado performances, where travelers can experience intimate live music in atmospheric venues, accompanied by local wine and food.

Where to stay: After a day of exploring (and eating), Acta The Avenue in the heart of Porto is an ideal stay for couples, families and groups. With spacious rooms, central location, and a restaurant, guests can also take advantage of the hotel’s stunning terrace to watch the sun set over Porto’s steep, terraced landscape.

Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul, widely regarded as Turkey’s economic, cultural and historical heart, is known the world over for its vibrant culinary offerings of tasty grilled meats, enticing street food, and signature Baklava and Turkish Delight. A sensory wonderland, Istanbul’s Spice Bazaar, or ‘Mısır Çarşısı’, lies at the city’s historical and culinary heart. Built in 1660 and famed for its vibrant stacks of spices, fragrant aromas, and tempting sweets, the market draws travelers into rows of dried fruits, nuts, teas, and beautifully crafted ceramics. Rather than committing to full purchases straight away, visitors can wander from stall to stall, sampling produce as they go, tasting dried meats, sweet treats, and even up to 200 varieties of cheese before deciding what to buy. Top traveler tip? Brush up on haggling skills, as prices for the uninitiated can be steep! After a day of taste sensations, hop on a breathtaking boat tour down the Bosphorus Strait, a historic waterway straddling the city that flows between Europe and Asia, or visit the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, a UNESCO-listed site over 1,500 years old to round out the day. 

Where to stay: With sensational city views, Walton Gardens Pera is the perfect stay for families looking for that extra bit of comfort, with stunning luxury apartments that blend modern design with homely touches. Parents can enjoy a long soak in the jacuzzi or wind down in the outdoor seating area while children play in the hotel’s gardens.

Pasadena, California

A lush and walkable city in the heart of Southern California, Pasadena has a thriving culinary scene. Old Pasadena, one of the city’s most eclectic historic districts, is a must-visit foodie haven. Home to over 650 restaurants, from upscale steakhouses to picturesque brunch, coffee spots, and Michelin-starred restaurants. Visitors will also want to swing by the original Trader Joe’s on Arroyo Parkway, the well-known American grocery store chain, where they can ‘bag’ themselves an infamous tote bag. The chic shopping accessory is the perfect foodie souvenir to take home and cherish. In store, travelers will want to pick up Trader Joe’s customer favorites such as its steamed pork and ginger soup dumplings, chili and lime flavored corn tortilla chips and, of course, its iconic ‘everything but the bagel’ seasoning, which pairs well with just about every savory food. To walk off the day’s feasting, visitors can wander through Pasadena’s beautifully preserved 19th- and 20th-century streets lined with elegant historic architecture and tree-lined cobbled pavements.

Where to stay: Located in the heart of the city, Pasadena Hotel and Pool is an ideal stay for couples. A picture of true beauty, guests can lounge in the outdoor pool surrounded by the shade of palm trees, or enjoy a luxurious soak in one of the many hot tubs. A short drive from the National Historic Landmark Rose Bowl Stadium, it also makes a great base for those hoping to catch a football game during their stay.

Oaxaca City, Mexico

Oaxaca (pronounced Wahaca) is a feast for the senses, where food tasting and immersive culinary experiences take center stage. Known for its deep indigenous heritage and bold, complex flavors, the region’s famed mole, made from a rich blend of spices, herbs, and chocolate, is a must-try, served across a variety of traditional dishes. At Mercado 20 Noviembre, visitors can graze their way through authentic Oaxacan cuisine, sampling everything from chapulines (grasshoppers) to freshly grilled meats in the lively ‘Hall of Meat,’ all best paired with a crisp cerveza. Beyond the tasting, the market is a treasure trove of foodie souvenirs, from artisanal chocolate and spices to local ingredients that capture the essence of Oaxaca’s culinary traditions. After indulging, travelers can explore the city further on a guided street art walking tour. As the heartland of mezcal, Mexico’s iconic agave spirit crafted from roasted agave hearts, Oaxaca also offers the chance to visit artisanal distilleries, where visitors can sample dozens of varieties before selecting a few bottles to take home and share.

Where to stay: A stylish, adults‑only guesthouse boasting a picture of serenity, Casa 821 creates a relaxed, intimate base within easy walking distance of the city’s cultural highlights. Just a 12-minute walk away is Memelas San Augustin, a street food stall popular with locals for breakfast and lunch, serving snack-sized Memelas (traditional Mexican street food made from thick, hand-pressed corn patties) topped with freshly pulled cheese and black beans.

Tainan, Taiwan

Renowned for its agricultural bounty, ultra-fresh seafood, and deeply rooted food culture, Tainan is widely considered Taiwan’s culinary capital. Travelers can eat their way through the city’s streets and markets, sampling iconic local specialties like Danzai noodles, served in a rich, umami-packed broth with minced meat, and crispy shrimp rolls, alongside indulgent bites like pork lard rice. During the annual Yanshui Beehive Fireworks Festival, held on the 15th day of the first lunar month, these beloved street foods take center stage, with visitors gathering to snack, graze, and celebrate one of Taiwan’s most vibrant religious events. Food experiences continue beyond the streets and into centuries-old traditions. In the heart of the city, Taiwan’s oldest tea shop, now run by its sixth-generation family, offers an invitation to slow down and savor. Visitors can explore the depth and diversity of Oolong tea, from light, floral notes to rich, roasted flavors, with hundreds of varieties to taste and take home, alongside beautifully crafted tea sets. Seafood lovers can head to the historic Anping area, where the scent of the sea leads to freshly shucked oysters and golden-fried shrimp rolls at the bustling market. After indulging, a visit to nearby Anping Fort offers the perfect contrast: history, heritage, and sweeping views across Tainan to round off a truly food-filled journey.

Where to stay: Cao Ji Book Inn Hostel blends comfort with character, with cozy bunk pods, book-lined spaces and a relaxed social atmosphere. Its rooftop terrace is the perfect spot to unwind with local tea at the end of the day. Just a five-minute walk into the city centre, travelers can visit Wagyu Shabu Tainan Zhonghua West Branch, a popular hotpot restaurant where diners cook their own meats and vegetables in richly flavored broths.

*Travel Predictions 2026 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total, 29,733 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled (including 1,009 from Argentina, 1,005 from Australia, 500 from Austria, 1,013 from Belgium, 1,008 from Brazil, 1,018 from Canada, 1,009 from China, 1,005 from Colombia, 508 from Croatia, 501 from Denmark, 1,010 from France, 1,003 from Germany, 1,004 from Hong Kong, 1,007 from India, 509 from Ireland, 507 from Israel, 1,005 from Italy, 1,003 from Japan, 1,003 from Mexico, 1,019 from The Netherlands, 1,033 from New Zealand, 1,006 from Portugal, 500 from Singapore, 1,003 from South Korea, 1,009 from Spain, 511 from Sweden, 501 from Switzerland, 504 from Taiwan, 1,001 from Thailand, 501 from the UAE, 2,003 from the UK, 2,010 from the US and 505 from Vietnam). Respondents completed an online survey in July-August 2025.

Booking.com’s Taste of Home Report* highlights how culinary travel is shaping the way Aussies stay in homes and alternative accommodations. One emerging trend, dubbed ‘Trolley Tourism’, sees travellers seeking out food markets and cult-favourite supermarkets to shop like locals while travelling. In fact, 88% of Aussie travellers say they do this, choosing to support local businesses to cook with fresh, seasonal and regional ingredients during their stays. 1 in 4 Aussie travellers (28%) also favour seafood as the first thing they want to eat when staying in holiday homes or unique accommodations. 

Bringing this trend to life in one of Australia’s most iconic destinations, The Booking.com Seafood Sail begins with a private, behind-the-scenes visit to the new Sydney Fish Market, recognised by TIME as one of the World’s Greatest Places to travel for 2026. Guided by Peter Gilmore, guests select the morning’s catch and learn how responsible sourcing supports the market’s operations.

From market to menu, the experience then moves onto the water aboard their own private houseboat - the classic 72-foot yacht Sir Thomas Sopwith. The beautiful vessel, bookable on Booking.com, offers a unique stay on Sydney Harbour, featuring comfortable onboard accommodation with private cabins, bathrooms and shower facilities, plus a spacious saloon and full galley kitchen where guests can prepare and enjoy their freshly sourced seafood. With generous deck space for dining and taking in harbour views, the accommodation combines the charm of traditional sailing with the comforts of a modern stay.

Once on board, Peter will lead a refined cooking session celebrating thoughtful fin‑to‑tail techniques, before serving a five‑course lunch on deck against the backdrop of Sydney’s sweeping harbour skyline. The lucky bookers can expect to savour a sampling of some of the finest seasonal picks, from Sydney Rock Oysters, half shell scallops with XO sauce, and yellow fin tuna sashimi, all crafted and curated by Peter. After lunch, guests will unwind as their dedicated skipper takes them exploring across the harbour, before settling in for two peaceful nights on the boat moored safely at Jones Bay Wharf, Pyrmont.

Peter Gilmore, Executive Chef, said: “As a chef, I’ve always believed the best way to understand a place is through its markets - it’s where a destination’s true flavours live. Showcasing my home city at the new Sydney Fish Market is something I’m genuinely excited about. After so many years at Bennelong and Quay, I’ve spent countless hours choosing seafood and learning what makes each species special, so sharing that process firsthand feels incredibly personal. To then take those ingredients onto the harbour and create a completely bespoke meal aboard the Booking.com Seafood Sail is a once‑in‑a‑lifetime experience and a true expression of Sydney’s seafood scene.”

Todd Lacey, Regional Manager, Oceania and Korea, Booking.com, said:
“Unique stays and the food we eat are critical to how we experience and savour what the world has to offer. Our Booking.com Taste of Home research reveals the rise of ‘Trolley Tourism’, as travellers are increasingly seeking authentic foodie experiences when booking homes, apartments and other alternative accommodations. Local markets, particularly the new Sydney Fish Market, aren't just a stop on the itinerary anymore; they’re becoming the destination.

The Seafood Sail brings these insights to life - giving travellers a private, house-yacht stay that pairs a guided tour of this new Aussie tourism icon with a chef-led culinary adventure and spectacular harbour-side seafood feast. Of the over 29 million total reported listings on Booking.com, more than 8.1 million listings are in homes, apartments and other unique places to stay – from country homes, city apartments and villas, to B&Bs, farm stays - and even boats!” 

The Booking.com Seafood Sail will be listed as a two-night stay on Sydney Harbour and will be bookable on a first-come, first-served basis on the 10th April at 12pm AEST for one Booking.com Genius traveller and one guest.  The Seafood Sail will cost $19.74 - a symbolic price that nods to the year the boat was built. 

The Booking.com Seafood Sail offers guests a spectacular sea-stay including:

• An insider tour of the Sydney Fish Market with Peter Gilmore, selecting the catch of the day
• A hands-on cooking experience on the private yacht, preparing a multi-course feast using seasonal local seafood
• A private captained harbour cruise to complete the unforgettable market-to-yacht adventure
• Daily breakfast and snacks provided by local makers, producers and chefs
• Two nights accommodation aboard the Booking.com Seafood Sail moored in Jones Bay Wharf,  Sydney

Booking.com is much more than just accommodations: with travellers easily able to book every part of their trip on the platform - from house-boats, fish market tours, to flights, transfers, and even harbour cruises.

Contact: bookingau@havasred.com

Notes to editors
_{Methodology: The Taste of Home Asia Pacific research report was conducted online between July 25 and July 28, 2025. The sample consists of 8,047 adults aged 18 years and older from Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, India, Japan, South Korea, Thailand and Vietnam who have booked or stayed in holiday homes or short-term rentals when travelling either domestically or internationally. For brevity, they will be referred to as ‘Aussie travellers’ or ‘Aussie holiday home guests’ in this report. YouGov designed the questionnaire, in collaboration with Red Havas and Booking.com. Following the completion of interviewing, the data was weighted by age, gender and region to align with the estimated population of holiday home guests in Australia.}

_{About Booking.com
Part of Booking Holdings Inc. Booking.com’s mission is to make it easier for everyone to experience the world. By investing in technology that removes friction from travel, the platform connects millions of travellers with memorable stays every day, from hotels to homes and unique alternative accommodations around the globe.}

_{About Sir Thomas Sopwith
Sir Thomas Sopwith is a 72 foot classic ketch designed by Robert Clark and launched in 1974 in Falmouth for the Ocean Youth Club. After years of service the yacht underwent a comprehensive Australian restoration that returned her to classic splendour with modern systems and comforts. Today she sails Sydney Harbour as one of the city’s most elegant and storied charter vessels, offering teak decks, a spacious cockpit and a timeless profile that makes her a favourite for intimate events on the water.}

Booking.com’s 2026 Travel Predictions highlight that 77% of travelers are drawn to road trips that allow them to meet new people. Route 66 delivers on that promise. Stretching 2,448 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, the historic route winds through eight states and iconic towns including Tulsa, Amarillo, Albuquerque, and Flagstaff, each offering authentic opportunities for connection during the Great American Road Trip.

Booking.com features over thousands of accommodation options along Route 66, from nostalgic motels to retro-inspired stays. With access to thousands of car rental options, flexible booking features, free cancellation on many properties, and the ability to plan an entire trip in one place, Booking.com makes it easy to build a custom trip from start to finish. The user-friendly app and wide selection of travel and attraction options help ensure that planning a road trip is just as enjoyable as taking one.

“Celebrating 100 years of Route 66 is a once-in-a-lifetime moment that invites travelers to rediscover the spirit of the open road,” said Ben Harrell, Managing Director, U.S., Booking.com. “We’re proud to support the communities and small businesses that have made the Mother Road such an iconic part of American culture. With thousands of accommodations, rental cars, and unique experiences available along the route, Booking.com is helping travelers plan unforgettable road trips and explore the stories, landmarks, and people that make Route 66 so special.”

The Route 66 Centennial will feature numerous events and celebrations throughout the year, with Booking.com integrated across digital platforms and on-site at key moments. As the official travel partner, Booking.com ensures travelers have access to flexible bookings and transportation options to experience the route in any style.

Where to Hit the Road in 2026

From car shows to foodie fests, the Route 66 Centennial is packed with iconic and unexpected events. Booking.com makes it easy to stay close to the action with many worth planning a trip around:

• Albuquerque, NM – April 18–19: Roads & Rails Festival
  • Where train travel meets Route 66 energy. Book Hotel Albuquerque in the heart of Old Town for walkable access and authentic Southwestern charm.
• Springfield, MO – April 30–May 2: National Kick-Off Event
  • The official launch of the Centennial celebration will feature concerts, car culture, and historic walking tours. Book a boutique stay at Hotel Vandivort, a local favorite that fuses history and modern style.
• Amarillo, TX – June 4–13: Texas Route 66 Festival
  • This multi-town, 10-day celebration brings food trucks, vintage car parades, and interactive art to life. Roadtrippers can rest up at The Big Texan Motel, a kitschy roadside gem with a big personality.
• Tulsa, OK – June 27–28: AAA Route 66 Road Fest
  • Classic cars, live music, and a retro revival in Tulsa’s Art Deco downtown. Stay at The Mayo Hotel, a glamorous 1925 landmark with rooftop views and vintage flair.
• Springfield, IL – September 25–27: Mother Road Festival
  • 1,000+ classic cars, live music, and a huge downtown block party. Stay at the Inn at 835 Boutique Hotel, a vintage mansion just steps from the action.
• Santa Monica, CA – The Route’s End
  • Wrap your journey at the Pacific Coast with beachside sunsets, local eats, and surf-town vibes. Book a room at The Georgian Hotel, an iconic Art Deco property steps from the Santa Monica Pier.

Whether joining a Centennial event or simply chasing the open road, Booking.com is here to help turn a once-in-a-century trip into reality. Visit Booking.com to start planning your Route 66 adventure and make the drive even more rewarding by using the Booking.com Genius Rewards Visa Signature® Card. You'll unlock instant Genius Level 3 status for discounts and room upgrades, plus earn substantial Travel Credits on every mile to help fund your next great American road trip.

Methodology:

*Travel Predictions 2026 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total, 29,733 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled (including 2,010 from the US). Respondents completed an online survey in July-August 2025.

Press Contact

For media inquiries, please contact Booking.com’s U.S. Press Office at booking.com@allisonworldwide.com or reach out to Gemma Long, Media Coordinator for the Route 66 Centennial, at gemma@gemprmedia.com or 217-210-1589.

About Booking.com

Part of Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: BKNG), Booking.com’s mission is to make it easier for everyone to experience the world. By investing in the technology that helps take the friction out of travel, Booking.com’s marketplace seamlessly connects millions of travelers with memorable experiences every day. For more information, follow @bookingcom on social media or visit globalnews.booking.com.

About the Route 66 Road Ahead Partnership:

Established in 2016 with the support of the National Park Service and the World Monuments Fund, the Route 66 Road Ahead Partnership’s mission is to revitalize and sustain Route 66 as a national and international icon through partnerships focused on promotion, preservation, research, education, and economic development. Only In Your State is the official Publishing Partner to the Route 66 Centennial. Founding Sponsors of the Route 66 Centennial include the Illinois Route 66 Centennial Commission, American Express, AAA Route 66 Road Fest, Cruise America, Harley Davidson, Rand McNally Publishing, and Booking.com. For more information, visit route66centennial.org.

As part of the fourteenth edition of the Traveller Review Awards, Booking.com unveils the 10 Most Welcoming Cities for 2026**, powered by more than 370 million verified reviews from travelers across the world. Based on the share of local accommodation partners recognized this year with an Award, these destinations stand out for their top-tier service and commitment to great hospitality.

Montepulciano, Italy
 

Perched high above the Tuscan countryside, Montepulciano is a hilltop gem where medieval architecture, world-class wine, and sweeping vineyard views create an atmosphere of timeless charm. Known for its celebrated Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, the town invites visitors to wander Renaissance palaces and narrow stone alleys that lead to Piazza Grande, the central square crowned by the imposing Palazzo Comunale tower and breathtaking panoramas of rolling hills and cypress-lined ridges. The town’s culinary traditions are equally enticing, from signature hand-rolled pici pasta to hearty local dishes like Bistecca alla Fiorentina. To enjoy more of the local cuisine and experience rural Tuscan life up close, travelers can embark on a Cinta Senese Pigs adventure with stops at olive groves and vineyards before visiting Cinta Senese pigs, easily recognized by their distinctive white belt. With its blend of rich history, striking scenery, and refined hospitality, Montepulciano offers an effortlessly authentic Tuscan escape.

Where to stay: Once the retreat of a noble family from Montepulciano, Villa Cicolina is now a beautiful hotel that serves as a welcoming base for those exploring the town. Adorned with original paintings and frescoed ceilings, the hotel is decked out with antique furniture reminiscent of the town’s rich history. Guests can explore the hotel’s gardens which lead to a small church, as well as its own wine cellar home to an impressive collection of wines and olive oil.

How to get there: Montepulciano is a few hours north of Rome Fiumicino International Airport, accessible on public transport by train and bus, or more conveniently with a rental car. 
 

Magong, Taiwan
 

Nestled along the western coast of Penghu Island, Magong is a lively harbor city that seamlessly pulls together historic backdrops, vibrant markets, and coastal scenery. Known for centuries-old temples and traditional architecture, the city entices guests to stroll narrow streets lined with red-brick buildings, admire the ornate Tianhou Temple, and explore the waterfront dotted with fishing boats and seaside cafés. The nearby Zhongyang Old Street is lined with traditional shops and crafts, coming alive at night with oyster omelets, grilled squid, and cactus sorbet. Travelers can also explore fishing villages and farms to savor fresh seafood with locally brewed drinks while experiencing the warm hospitality of the Penghu community. Just beyond the city, dramatic columnar basalt cliffs, sandy coves, and clear waters offer some of Taiwan’s best coastal scenery, while seasonal events like the Penghu Fireworks Festival and local specialties such as Penghu brown sugar cake highlight the island’s vibrant cultural spirit. Magong’s mix of cultural heritage, scenic ocean vistas, and warm local hospitality presents an authentic and memorable Taiwanese island escape.

Where to stay: Overlooking Magong’s blue waters and Qingwan Cactus Park, Beachcastle & Sea View Villa is a serene beachfront escape just a five-minute walk from Shanshui Beach. This welcoming property features 17 rooms with a sun terrace, lush gardens, and a swimming pool. Families can make use of the indoor playroom and outdoor playground, while active travelers can arrange guided snorkeling trips. Cultural and natural attractions, including Shili Beach, Penghu Mazu Temple, and the Chang Yu-sheng Memorial Museum, are all within easy reach, with Makung Airport just 25 minutes away by car.

How to get there: There are frequent 40–50 min flights from mainland Taiwan or the option of ferries running from Chiayi Budai or Kaohsiung to Magong Harbor.

San Martín de los Andes, Argentina
 

Set on the tranquil shores of Lake Lácar and framed by the rugged peaks of the Andes, San Martín de los Andes is a Patagonian haven where alpine vibes and natural beauty converge. The town’s cozy streets, lined with wooden chalets, lakeside cafés, and artisan shops, invite visitors to stroll at a leisurely pace and soak in the serene surroundings. Outdoor enthusiasts can venture into nearby Lanín National Park, a vast expanse of ancient forests, sparkling rivers, and volcanic landscapes perfect for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting. In the winter months (between June and August), Cerro Chapelco serves as the ideal playground for skiers and snowboarders, while summer reveals sunlit trails and hidden waterfalls. With scenic tranquility, adventurous pursuits, and rich local culture, San Martín de los Andes represents an authentic Patagonian escape that feels both restorative and exhilarating.

Where to stay: El Refugio Ski & Summer Lodge is a cozy mountainside retreat brimming with rustic flare and modern comforts. Travelers can relax in chalet-style rooms, unwind by the firepit or in the library, and enjoy the indoor pool and spa after a day of outdoor adventure. The lodge provides ski-in/ski-out access, hearty breakfasts, and amenities such as free parking and laundry service, making every stay effortless. Surrounded by forests and sweeping mountain vistas, El Refugio delivers a serene escape for those seeking the ideal blend of adventure, relaxation, and a true taste of Patagonian life.

How to get there: San Martín de los Andes is a 30-minute drive from Aviador Carlos Campos Airport. 

Harrogate, United Kingdom
 

Situated in the heart of North Yorkshire, Harrogate is an elegant English spa town full of historic charm. Quaint boulevards and ornate Victorian façades frame a town filled with modern and contemporary cafés, indie shops and scenic garden paths perfect for leisurely strolls. Valley Gardens burst with color, while the Montpellier Quarter delights with independent shops and lively wine bars tucked between historic terraces. Harrogate is also famed for its Turkish Baths, offering a quintessential spa experience that reflects the town’s long-standing wellness heritage. Captivating with its harmonious mix of culture and greenery, Harrogate invites travelers to unwind while discovering the quieter corner of northern England.

Where to stay: York Place One is a modern, light-filled retreat just 1,600 feet from Harrogate Library and overlooking the town’s 200 acre grass parkland known as The Stray. The one bedroom apartment, which has recently been fully refurbished, features a king size bed, Smart TVs and complimentary private parking Central cafes, boutiques, and cultural attractions are within easy walking distance, while Ripley Castle, Bramham Park, and Rudding Park Spa are a short drive away.

How to get there: Harrogate is easy to reach, whether arriving by air or rail. Leeds Bradford Airport is less than a 30-minute drive away, and regular train services connect the town with nearby cities in the UK such as Leeds and York.

Fredericksburg, Texas, United States 
 

Set amid the rolling hills of Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg blends small-town hospitality with a rich cultural heritage. Founded in 1846 by German settlers, it preserves its roots through traditional architecture, authentic cuisine, and energetic festivals celebrating its European origins. The town mixes history, adventure, and Southern hospitality. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Enchanted Rock State Natural Area with its striking pink granite dome, scenic hiking trails and stargazing opportunities, while those seeking a gentler pace can meander down Main Street to uncover a wealth of boutique shops, art galleries, and traditional bakeries. Visitors can also join other fellow travelers to explore the town’s cultural offerings on a tour of the Historic District. Fredericksburg has plenty of  farm-to-table dining options and lively music venues to enjoy, characteristics that easily define why Fredericksburg is known for its welcoming energy.

Where to stay: Luxury Shipping Container The Desert Escape is a sleek, comfortable one-bedroom villa, just a short drive from Rancho Ponte Vineyard and Old Tunnel State Park. It provides easy access to Fredericksburg’s wineries, outdoor adventures, and small-town charm. Guests can cook in the fully equipped kitchen and relax with a planned cozy night in front of the TV, all against a peaceful backdrop ideal for unwinding.

How to get there: Fredericksburg is just over an hour’s drive northwest of San Antonio International Airport or an hour and a half west from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. 

Pirenópolis, Brazil
 

Pirenópolis is a captivating town in the heart of the central Brazilian state of Goiás, brimming with historical significance, cultural depth and natural beauty. Its cobblestone streets, colorful façades, artisan shops and baroque churches never fail to delight, while the surrounding hills hold more than 80 waterfalls, including the tranquil Meia Lua and mystical Cachoeiras dos Dragões. Travelers can explore at their own pace by either renting a car or joining guided tours, discovering hidden pools, forest trails and scenic viewpoints along the way. The town’s regional cuisine, along with lively craft markets, adds even more local character, and between April and June, the Festa do Divino Espírito Santo fills the streets with music, dance and traditional flavors. and the aromas of local cuisine. Mixing adventure, history, and warm Brazilian hospitality, Pirenópolis offers an unforgettable escape.

Where to stay: Located in the heart of Pirenóplis Old Town, Confraria da Prata Flats is a stylish retreat just a five-minute walk from Nossa Senhora do Rosário Church. Guests can unwind in cozy, well-appointed apartments, relax on the sun terrace or in the lush garden, or take a dip in the year-round outdoor pool. The property also features a picnic area, outdoor fireplace, and seating areas perfect for soaking up the Pirenópolis sunshine or enjoying the free breakfast that is included.

How to get there: Pirenópolis is about a 3-hour drive from Brasília and roughly 2 hours from Goiânia, making it an easy escape into the heart of Goiás.

Swakopmund, Namibia 
 

Set on Namibia’s rugged western coast, Swakopmund is a coastal town where golden dunes meet the Atlantic, offering a unique combination of adventure, nature and culture. Visitors can sandboard down towering desert slopes, embark on thrilling kayak trips alongside playful seals at Pelican Point, or explore the town’s picturesque streets lined with historical architecture, boutique shops, and trendy cafes. Food lovers can savor German-inspired cuisine, fresh seafood, and premium craft beers, while annual events like Oktoberfest showcase the town’s lively and historical spirit. With dramatic desert landscapes & vistas, a scenic shoreline, and a rich cultural heritage, Swakopmund promises unforgettable experiences for every traveler.  

Where to stay: 

Nestled in a quiet corner of Swakopmund,  Fritz Manor Bed and Breakfast is a welcoming retreat just a short walk from The Mole Beach and the town’s vibrant center. Dedicated to reviving Swakopmund’s bed-and-breakfast tradition, this boutique stay blends modern comfort with rich architectural character. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, family-friendly and accessible facilities, and a continental breakfast before exploring quirky shops, inviting cafés, local museums, or simply relaxing under the coastal skies. Fritz Manor is the perfect base for a Namibian adventure. 

How to get there: While Swakopmund doesn’t have its own airport, travelers can fly to Walvis Bay Rooikop, which is located just over 20 miles away.

Takayama, Japan
 

High up in Japan’s mountainous Hida region, Takayama is a town where Edo-period charm endures. In the Sanmachi Suji district, narrow streets are lined with beautifully preserved wooden merchant houses, traditional sake breweries, and artisanal shops that allow for a step back in time. The Miyagawa Riverside Market comes alive each morning, while guided sake tours reveal the secrets of brewing and end with tastings of this iconic rice liquor. Nearby, the Hida Folk Village and the UNESCO-listed village of Shirakawa-go showcase centuries-old rural architecture, adding depth to any visit. Visitors can savor Hida beef, served in sizzling yakiniku grills or comforting ramen bowls, alongside local specialties like Hoba miso grilled on magnolia leaves. With its blend of history, craftsmanship and culinary delights, Takayama delivers a warm and unforgettable traditional Japanese experience.

Where to stay: Ryokan Tanabe, located in the heart of the Takayama Old Town, provides travelers with an authentic Japanese stay just steps from historic streets and train stations. Tatami-lined rooms, futon bedding and in-room kaiseki dining create an immersive cultural escape, while the soothing onsen baths are the perfect place to unwind after exploring the town. With its peaceful ambience and unbeatable location, this property is an ideal base to discoverTakayama’s rich heritage while relaxing in true Japanese style.

How to get there: Takayama is easily accessible by train or car. Ryokan Tanabe is just a 7–10 minute walk from Takayama Station, which is connected via a scenic rail journey from Nagoya. Those arriving by air can reach the town with a two-hour drive from nearby regional airports, including Toyama and Matsumoto. 

Noosa Heads, Australia 
 

Fringed by golden beaches and lush hinterland, Noosa Heads on Australia’s eastern coast is a sun-soaked escape where travelers can enjoy adventure and relaxation in equal measures. Surfers ride the iconic breaks of Main Beach, while calm waters at Little Cove are perfect for paddleboarding or swimming. Coastal trails wind through Noosa National Park reveal headlands with panoramic views, hidden coves, and the chance to spot koalas, dolphins, and native birdlife. Hastings Street comes alive with boutique shops, cafés and restaurants, bringing the laid-back beach vibes and vibrant energy. For a change of pace, the Noosa Everglades Serenity Cruise glides through quiet mirrored waterways surrounded by eucalypt forests and calm wetlands, an unforgettable way to connect and fully immerse oneself in the region’s natural beauty. 

Where to stay: 
Just a short stroll from Hastings Street and less than 2,000 feet from Noosa Beach, Noosa Boutique Apartments & Elkhorn Villas consists of modern, individually decorated apartments and villas with air conditioning, sun-filled interiors, and private patios or balconies, some overlooking the Noosa River. Guests can enjoy a heated outdoor pool and spa, free undercover parking, and easy access to boutique shopping, cafés, or even early morning surf sessions.

How to get there: Noosa Heads is around a 30-minute drive from Sunshine Coast Airport or about two hours from Brisbane Airport, which has more international flight options.

Klaipėda, Lithuania 
 

Framed by sweeping Baltic coastlines and pine-scented dunes, Klaipeda is a breezy seaside escape where maritime heritage meets modern coastal living. Its delightful Old Town, full of timber-framed houses, cafés, and cobbled streets, leads to a harbor alive with ferries, sailboats, and ships. Across the water, the UNESCO-listed Curonian Spit offers dunes, forests, and beaches ideal for cycling, hiking, and wildlife spotting. Back in the city, Smiltynė Beach, the Sea Museum & Dolphinarium, sculpture parks, and summer festivals create a laid-back yet culturally rich atmosphere. As night falls, handmade wooden canoes glide down the Dane River, drifting past illuminated waterfronts into the quiet, enchanting side of Kaipeda’s old streets. With historic lanes, tranquil beaches, and glowing river nights, Klaipėda showcases Lithuania’s coastal beauty and refreshing seaside allure. 

Where to stay: Adler Aparthotel is a stylish and convenient base for discovering the city’s heritage and lively waterfront. Housed in a restored historic building, it combines contemporary design with Baltic character, featuring exposed brick and warm wooden furnishings. With flexible self check-in and attentive service, this aparthotel ensures a seamless stay while providing a stylish and welcoming retreat.

How to get there: Klaipėda is easily accessible for travelers flying into Palanga International Airport or just 40 minutes away by car.

*Research was commissioned by Booking.com and independently conducted among a sample of adults who had taken a leisure trip in the last 12 months with an overnight stay and plan to travel in 2025. The sample comprised 32,106 respondents across 32 markets surveyed in January 2025. USA N=2,000, Canada N=800, Spain N=800, Italy N=800, France N=1800, UK N=1800, Germany N=1800, Netherlands N=800, Denmark N=500, Sweden N=500, Croatia N=501, Switzerland N=800, Belgium N=800, Ireland N=504, Austria N=500, Portugal N=800, Mexico N=1,800, Colombia N=800, Brazil N=1,800, Argentina N=800, India N=1,800, China N=800, Hong Kong N=500, Thailand N=800, Singapore N=800, Taiwan N=500, Vietnam N=800, South Korea N=800, Japan N=1,800, UAE N=500, Australia N=1,800, New Zealand N=500. 

**Destinations were sorted by the total share of Traveller Review Award 2026 recipients when compared to the total amount of eligible properties in that city or region (accommodation only). Destinations also had to have an above-average amount of winners to be included on this list (200 award recipients or higher for cities and regions) and were curated for geographic spread. 

About Booking.com: 
Part of Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: BKNG), Booking.com’s mission is to make it easier for everyone to experience the world. By investing in the technology that helps take the friction out of travel, Booking.com’s marketplace seamlessly connects millions of travelers with memorable experiences every day. For more information, follow @bookingcom on social media or visit news.booking.com.

• The Silent Night stay, perched on the quiet shores of Isleornsay, Skye, accessible only by boat - offers the ultimate digital detox and retreat from festive noise.
• A quarter (24%) of Brits say they wish they could step away from the chaos, and be fully remote this festive season, embracing silence, simplicity and new silent experiences.
• Guests will enjoy a curated itinerary of ‘Hushed Hobbies’, including birdwatching,  seaweed foraging, sound baths and open swimming - in response to 41% of travellers saying they would go on holiday specifically to feel closer to the natural world.
• Data from Booking.com shows an uplift in Brits looking to get away this Christmas - searching for a home away from home - with festive travel searches up 19.5% for trips in the UK and 31% for international travel.

London, 24^th November: This Christmas, Booking.com is inviting travellers to embrace the tranquillity of nature with an off-grid festive stay on their very own private island in the Isle of Skye.

The Silent Night Stay, perched on the serene shores of Isleornsay and accessible only by boat, offers a rare opportunity to unplug completely, enjoy a digital and social detox, and reconnect with the natural world - bookable as a one-off exclusive retreat this Christmas.

The stunning stay comes as new research from Booking.com reveals that a quarter (24%) of Brits wish they could disappear from the chaos and go ‘off grid’ this Christmas. In fact, more than half (55%) of Brits claimed their ideal Christmas this year would be ‘quiet and relaxing’, with a third (33%) looking to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with nature.

A further 51% say they’d enjoy the chance to recharge and reset, spend quality time with a small group of loved ones (45%), and step away from the usual festive chaos (33%). However, nearly a third (30%) admit they feel held back by not wanting to disappoint their family and friends, and the pressure to keep up with traditions and expectations (22%). 

Set within the enchanting Eilean Sionnach Lighthouse Cottage, the Silent Night stay features four elegant bedrooms, a roll-top bathtub overlooking the sea, a wood-burning stove, and sweeping views across Loch Hourn and Knoydart – the perfect setting for slow, restorative mornings and mindful, nature-based activities - far from screens and busy schedules.

Recent research from Booking.com revealed that 41% of travellers saying they would go on holiday specifically to feel closer to the natural world, with one in five (20%) turning to “quieter” hobbies during a trip. More than two thirds (67%) say they would consider fishing or birdwatching and staying at a hotel where they are involved with foraging in local nature for their meals (64%), highlighting the growing appeal of activities that foster a deeper connection with nature.

To enhance the experience, guests also receive a ‘Serenity Kit’ on arrival, including a journal for reflection, a sand timer to encourage tech-free moments, a puzzle, and a candle infused with the scents of the Isle of Skye.

Ryan Pearson, Regional Manager for UK & Ireland at Booking.com, said: “We’re seeing a real shift in what people are looking for from travel – towards quieter, more meaningful experiences that help them switch off, unwind and try something new. Our 2026 Travel Predictions highlights how ‘Hushed Hobbies’ are on the rise – with a third (33%) of  travellers looking for a festive break that allows them to slow down, reflect, and rediscover peace in nature. The Silent Night stay captures that spirit perfectly, giving guests a chance to slow down and restore balance during one of the busiest times of year.”

The Silent Night stay will be available to book on a first come first serve basis on 5 December 2025 10 am GMT on the Booking.com app or website, for up to four guests checking-in for three nights from the 19^th – 22^nd December at a cost of £20.25. 

Brit’s Top 10 Off-Grid Dream Destinations

1. A cosy homestay in the Scottish Highlands
2. A small island hideaway in the Maldives
3. A festive homestay in the Cotswolds
4. An alpine chalet in the Swiss Alps
5. A private island
6. A beachfront hut in Bali
7. A remote Icelandic cabin with hot springs nearby
8. A fjord-side lodge in Norway
9. A cabin in the Canadian Rockies
10. A cabin on an uninhabited Scottish island

NOTES TO EDITORS

Contact Details

For any queries, please contact the Booking.com UK Press Office: booking@brands2life.com
Survey conducted by OnePoll from 11^th November to 13^th November 2025, 2,000 UK adults who celebrate Christmas. 

About Booking.com: 
Part of Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: BKNG), Booking.com’s mission is to make it easier for everyone to experience the world. By investing in the technology that helps take the friction out of travel, Booking.com’s marketplace seamlessly connects millions of travelers with memorable experiences every day. For more information, follow @bookingcom on social media or visit globalnews.booking.com.

Follow us on TikTok, Twitter and Instagram, like us on Facebook, and for the latest news, data and insights, please visit our global media room. 

Here’s a snapshot of the Black Friday savings travelers can enjoy across all six travel categories between November 20 and December 3, 2025, for travel as far out as December 31, 2026:

Travel Smart, Save More

According to Booking.com research, 38% of travelers plan to take similar trips next year as they did in 2025, but expect costs to be higher, making Black Friday the perfect time to lock in savings and stretch budgets. And since 27% of travelers in groups cite budget disagreements as a common challenge, these deals help everyone agree on the next destination.³

For families, affordability can mean the difference between dreaming and doing with 67% of parents using apps to help save money when traveling. Black Friday savings on any type of trip helps make travel more attainable, helping families explore the world together without compromise.⁴ Families looking for inspiration on where to go can explore Booking.com’s 2026 Trending Destinations, with highlights ranging from Vietnam’s sun-kissed southeast coast to a charming and cycle-friendly city in Western Germany. 

Experiences that connect and restore

Black Friday isn’t just about where to stay, it’s also about how to get there. Road trips are having a renaissance, and according to Booking.com’s Travel Predictions 2026, 84% of travelers are open to carpooling on vacation, while 54% are willing to use an app to find travelers on a similar route.⁵ With up to 25% off car rentals, Booking.com makes it easier than ever to hit the open road, whether chasing the 100th anniversary of Route 66 across the U.S. taking place in 2026 or experiencing Australia’s Great Ocean Road.

For travelers craving calm and a closer connection to nature, many are turning to experiences that help them slow down and recharge. 43% of travelers and an impressive 81% of Gen Z say they want vacations that bring them closer to the natural world.⁶ Black Friday deals on attractions, up to 20% off, make it easier to book restorative experiences from birdwatching along Chile's coast to Arctic ice floating in Finland.

Seamless planning with AI, from Deals to Destinations

Booking.com’s suite of AI-powered tools helps travelers plan smarter and get the most out of Black Friday. Flight Search Summaries highlight trade-offs like stops, price, and travel time, helping travelers pick the right flight with ease. Users can also describe their ideal stay in their own words and Smart Filters will automatically narrow down accommodations to match to those preferences, saving time and helping to find the perfect place to stay. Review Summaries highlight the most important details from guest reviews into a tailored overview so travelers can choose a stay with confidence.⁷ With these tools, and several others, planning a full trip from flights to stays and activities is simpler than ever, making it easy to find the best deals and lock in the perfect trip in just a few clicks.

¹ Only available for users in Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Malta, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, USA.

² Only available for users in the United States

³ Research was commissioned by Booking.com and independently conducted among a sample of adults who took a leisure trip with an overnight stay in the last 12 months,  plan to travel in 2025, and are involved in trip planning. The sample is comprised of 32,106 respondents across 32 markets surveyed in January 2025. (2,000 from USA, 800 from Canada, 1,800 from Mexico, 800 from Colombia, 1,801 from Brazil, 800 from Argentina, 1,800 from Australia, 500 from New Zealand, 800 from Spain, 800 from Italy, 1,800 from France, 1,800 from UK, 1,800 from Germany, 800 from Netherlands, 500 from Denmark, 500 from Sweden, 501 from Croatia, 800 from Switzerland, 800 from Belgium, 504 from Ireland, 800 from Portugal, 1,800 from India, 800 from China, 500 from Hong Kong, 800 from Thailand, 800 from Singapore, 500 from Taiwan, 800 from Vietnam, 800 from South Korea, 1,800 from Japan, 500 from U`1AE).

⁴ Travel Predictions 2025 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total, 27,713 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled (including 1016 from Argentina, 1002 from Australia, 502 from Austria, 1003 from Belgium, 1002 from Brazil, 1006 from Canada, 1007 from China, 1005 from Colombia, 501 from Croatia, 501 from Denmark, 1011 from France, 1009 from Germany, 1004 from Hong Kong, 1002 from India, 506 from Ireland, 501 from Israel, 1014 from Italy, 1008 from Japan, 1013 from Mexico, 1011 from The Netherlands, 1003 from New Zealand, 504 from Portugal, 508 from Singapore, 1004 from South Korea, 1008 from Spain, 509 from Sweden, 500 from Switzerland, 507 from Taiwan, 1009 from Thailand, 503 from the UAE, 1012 from the UK, 1006 from the US and 1016 from Vietnam). Respondents completed an online survey in July-August 2024.

^5,6Travel Predictions 2026 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total, 29,733 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled (including 1,009 from Argentina, 1,005 from Australia, 500 from Austria, 1,013 from Belgium, 1,008 from Brazil, 1,018 from Canada, 1,009 from China, 1,005 from Colombia, 508 from Croatia, 501 from Denmark, 1,010 from France, 1,003 from Germany, 1,004 from Hong Kong, 1,007 from India, 509 from Ireland, 507 from Israel, 1,005 from Italy, 1,003 from Japan, 1,003 from Mexico, 1,019 from The Netherlands, 1,033 from New Zealand, 1,006 from Portugal, 500 from Singapore, 1,003 from South Korea, 1,009 from Spain, 511 from Sweden, 501 from Switzerland, 504 from Taiwan, 1,001 from Thailand, 501 from the UAE, 2,003 from the UK, 2,010 from the US and 505 from Vietnam). Respondents completed an online survey in July-August 2025.

⁷ The Flights Summaries feature is available for users with English language settings, with additional markets and languages coming in 2026. Smart Filters is available to users with language settings in English, Dutch, French, Italian, German, Spanish and Polish. Review Summaries is currently in testing mode. 

*Up to 40% savings available on new accommodation bookings at participating properties indicated by the ‘Black Friday Deal’ label on the search results and room selection pages. Saving varies depending on the destination country. Black Friday discounts have a minimum of 30% savings globally. Bookings must be made before 10:00 am CET on 03/12/25 for stays with check-in from 20/11/25 and check-out on or before 31/12/26. Saving applies to the cost of a room only (excluding any extras, additional fees or taxes). If you make any changes to your booking, you may lose your savings and be liable for the full amount. Saving cannot be combined with any other promotions. Room rates labelled ‘Partner Offer’ are excluded from this promotion. This offer is provided by participating properties and is subject to availability.

*Up to 25% discount available on new car rental bookings with participating car rental companies, indicated by the “Black Friday” badge on the search results page. Bookings must be made before 11:59 pm GMT on 03/12/25 for car rental pick-ups between 20/11/25 and 31/12/26. Discount applies to the cost of the car rental only (excluding any extras, additional fees or taxes). If you make changes to your booking, the discount will no longer apply and you will be liable for the standard price of the rental. This offer is provided directly by participating car rental companies and is subject to their availability and terms. The offer cannot be used in conjunction with Genius discounts or other promotions. For full terms and conditions see here.

*Up to 20% saving to a maximum value of 30€ (or local currency equivalent) per ticket available on new bookings for select attractions indicated by a ‘Black Friday Deal’ label. Offer provided on a first-come, first-served basis, based on an allocated campaign budget. Offer will end at 10:00 am CET on 4/12/25 or when the campaign budget has been utilised (‘Campaign End’). Bookings must be made before the Campaign End and for a visit within 180 days of the booking date. Saving applies to the cost of the attraction only (excluding any extras, additional fees or taxes). If you make any changes to your booking, you may lose your savings and be liable for the full amount. This offer is provided by Booking.com and our partners and is subject to availability.

*A 20% saving is available on new airport transfer bookings marked with the “Black Friday” badge on the search results page. Bookings must be made by 11:59 GMT on 03/12/25 for pick-ups between 20/11/25 and 31/12/26. If you make any changes to your booking you may lose your savings and be liable for the full taxi fare. This offer is subject to availability and cannot be used in conjunction with Genius discounts or other promotions. Valid only on select airport transfers; public transport and Uber rides excluded.

*Up to 15% savings are available on flights indicated by the ‘Black Friday Deal’ label on the search results page. You just need to choose your flight, and the deal is automatically applied. Bookings must be made before 11:00am CET on 04/12/25 for flights departing between 22/11/2025 and 31/12/2026. The offer applies to select destinations in the USA, Canada, Mexico, Africa, Asia, Europe and South America. Savings apply to the cost of the flight only, excluding any extras, additional fees or taxes. If you make changes to your booking, the discount will no longer apply, and you will be charged the standard fare. The savings amount is paid by Booking.com on your behalf. Prices may change during the campaign period, depending on availability and airline pricing. Black Friday Deal can be offered in conjunction with Genius savings but will not exceed 15%. Booking.com reserves the right to end the Black Friday Deals promotion early if the total financial value of the promotional offers redeemed exceeds a certain limit.

*Booking.com’s Double Cruise Cash is awarded to one passenger per new booking made between 11/20/25 and 12/03/25. Onboard Spend is calculated off the total price minus insurance, port charges, port expenses, and taxes as follows: $50 per $1–$999 booking, $100 per $1,000–$1,499 booking, $150 per $1,500–$1,999 booking, $200 per $2,000–$2,999 booking, $250 per $3,000–$3,999 booking, $350 per $4,000–$5,999 booking, $500 per $6,000–$7,999 booking, $700 per $8,000–$9,999 booking, $1,000 per $10,000–$14,999 booking, $1,500 per $15,000–$19,999 booking, and $2,000 per $20,000 or more booking. The Onboard Spend will be issued on the day of embarkation. Offer is per stateroom, will not exceed 10% of the cruise value, and is only valid for new individual cruise bookings made on Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Celebrity, Holland America, and Princess sailings departing at least 22 days post-booking but no later than 12/31/26. Not valid for canceled or rebooked cruises. Onboard Spend has no cash value, is not redeemable for cash, is not transferable, and will expire after the final night of the cruise. Offer ends 12/03/25. See full terms here.

Half of American women say their significant other has never booked a trip for them, even though ninety-three percent agree that taking initiative with booking is a major turn-on and something they find even more attractive than a good physique or a big paycheck. And get this, over half (56%) say their partner booking a trip is just as arousing, if not more, than foreplay.

Gentlemen, the bar isn’t just low…it’s underground.

The good news is there is hope. Almost all of men (89%) admit they could take more initiative in planning trips for their partners and Booking.com is here to help raise that bar and make it easier for them to do so. To help spread the gospel of This Guy Books energy, Booking.com has teamed up with the soulful heartthrob Teddy Swims, a man who knows a thing or two about turning up the heat. 

As Teddy embodies This Guy Books energy, to drive the point home of how easy (and romantic) it is to book, he will personally meet with and help five couples book their dream Booking.com trip. The five lucky bookers (and their very impressed plus ones who are suddenly feeling extra affectionate) will be invited to kick off the holiday season in Chicago, December 7–9, for a whirlwind romantic getaway that includes: 

• Foreplay: A two-night stay in a luxurious Booking.com property and that “I don’t wanna go home” comfort.
• The Main Attraction: A private meet-and-greet with Teddy Swims, who will personally help each couple plan their dream Booking.com trip.
• Seal the Deal: Each couple will leave with $10,000 in Booking.com Travel Credits to create their dream getaway, whenever and wherever they want.
• Lose Control Live: Tickets to a festive holiday performance featuring Teddy Swims and others — the perfect soundtrack to a trip you’ll still be talking about long after checkout.
• Table for Two: Dinner for two at one of Chicago’s most romantic restaurants.
• Nightcap: Dessert in bed, fireside cocktails, or a winter stroll - it’s your move, Romeo.

"Being the guy who plans the trip is hot,” says Teddy Swims. “This Guy Books is all about showing up, taking the lead, and turning a few taps on Booking.com into memories that last way longer than that box of chocolates or flowers ever could. So guys, if your partner’s love language is ‘vacations,’ it’s time to book.”

Here’s how it works: The Teddy Swims “This Guy Books” Experience will open for bookings on a first-come, first-served basis for five bookers and their plus ones on November 25, 2025, at 10 a.m. ET for just $1.43 (a nod to old-school pager code for I love you). The $10,000 in Travel Credits that bookers will receive can be seamlessly redeemed across the Booking.com platform for everything from dreamy overnight stays and attractions to rental cars and flights – all in one place. Love might be priceless, but this deal definitely isn’t. 

With more than 8.6 million reported listings in homes, apartments and other unique places to stay around the globe, Booking.com makes it easier, and dare we say sexier, for everyone to experience the world. Teddy Swims “This Guy Books” Experience is just one of countless unforgettable experiences that showcase how easy it is to use Booking.com to plan and book every part of the trip - from unique places to stay and must-see attractions, to airport taxis, cruises and everything in between. This cultural collaboration also continues Booking.com’s momentum in unlocking exclusive, buzzworthy experiences - from celebrity-hosted stays to curated itineraries — that merge entertainment, travel, and design in unexpected ways. 

And here’s the final kicker: two-thirds of men admit they’d be more likely to plan a trip if they knew they’d get a little… extra affection in return. (Hey, we’re just sharing the data.) So why not put it to the test? True confidence looks like opening the Booking.com app, clicking “Book Now,” and letting the romantic adventure begin. 

To explore more insights about This Guy Books, visit: https://news.booking.com/data-confirms-hes-hotter-when-he-books, and for the chance to book this experience, visit: https://www.booking.com/hotel/us/teddy-swims-this-guy-books-experience.html.

Methodology

Based on survey results commissioned by Booking.com. Survey participants consisted of 1,000 U.S. respondents, age 18 or older who are in a romantic relationship. Fielding took place in October 2025. 

Press Contact

For media inquiries, please contact Booking.com’s US Press Office: booking.com@allisonworldwide.com 

About Booking.com

Part of Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: BKNG), Booking.com’s mission is to make it easier for everyone to experience the world. By investing in the technology that helps take the friction out of travel, Booking.com’s marketplace seamlessly connects millions of travelers with memorable experiences every day. For more information, follow @bookingcom on social media or visit globalnews.booking.com.

Located in picturesque Tutukākā in New Zealand’s Northland, the Booking.com Kina Cottage will offer one lucky pair of Genius members an unforgettable retreat that uncovers the distinct flavours of Aotearoa, while helping to look after the local marine environment. 

Northland is known for its pristine beaches, lush forests, rich Māori culture, and proximity to one of the world’s top dive sites - the Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve. It is also one of the regions most affected by ‘kina barren’, a growing ecological challenge in New Zealand and around the world in which excess kina population strips healthy kelp forests.

The Booking.com Kina Cottage will first offer guests a unique experience with Dive Now, heading out on the pristine coastline by boat to sustainably hand-harvest kina. The catch of the day will then be served from ocean-to-table in a multi-course, private dining experience by Kia Kanuta, inviting guests to savour their harvest while uncovering the stories behind this global delicacy. 

Guests will then relax and enjoy the private clifftop cottage, with a vineyard and olive tree grove, sweeping ocean views, a deck made for enjoying kina fresh from the ocean, and its own mermaid pool complete with a resident octopus.

The stay comes at a time when more people are seeking more sustainable travel experiences. Booking.com’s 2025 Travel and Sustainability report* highlights that two-thirds of Kiwis (67%) want to leave destinations better than they found them. Further Booking.com holiday home travel trends data** also found that food is a top motivator for travellers, with over 70% of Kiwis choosing destinations for cuisine and over half (54%) considering farm / ocean-to-table experiences as desired options when staying at holiday homes or local baches. 

Known for his passion for local ingredients, inventive seafood dishes, and bringing traditional Māori flavours to modern dining and global audiences, Chef Kia Kanuta said: 

“Some of my fondest memories are of school holidays spent gathering kina with my whānau, enjoying them fresh from the ocean. Those experiences shaped my love for ingredients that connect cuisine and culture. Teaming up with Booking.com on the Kina Cottage experience is meaningful to me because it brings together kaimoana (seafood), tradition, and the chance to share New Zealand’s coastal flavours with the world.” 

The Booking.com Kina Cottage will be available for booking on a first-come, first-served basis on 23 October at 12pm NZDT for one Booking.com traveller and a guest, for a stay between 20-23 November. For just $20.11 - guests will experience a once in a lifetime itinerary including: 

• A personalised hosted kina diving experience with Dive Now
• A bespoke dinner menu featuring the kina catch of the day, prepared by chef Kia Kanuta
• Daily breakfast and snacks provided by local makers, producers and chefs
• Return flights (domestic or international, depending on Booker’s location) and car rental or transfers
• Three nights’ accommodation at the Booking.com Kina Cottage between Thursday 20 November and Sunday 23 November 2025 

Todd Lacey, Regional Manager, Oceania for Booking.com commented: 

“Aotearoa’s Tutukākā Coast is one of the world’s most spectacular coastlines, rich in nature, cuisines and culture. We are proud to showcase New Zealand’s unique destinations and holiday home options to the world through the Booking.com Kina Cottage. This sumptuous bookable foodie experience at one of our best holiday homes is a chance to welcome the world into our corner of New Zealand, to enjoy our kaimoana (sea food) at a breathtaking destination. Food is at the heart of many quintessentially Kiwi bach stays, and the Kina Cottage exemplifies this trend amongst travellers today.”  

With more than 8.4 million reported listings in homes, apartments and other unique places to stay and 45% of new listings getting booked within just a week of going live on the world’s leading travel platform, Booking.com knows how to turn holiday homes and hosts into superstars. 

For more information and to book the Booking.com Kina Cottage, visit https://www.booking.com/hotel/nz/the-kina-cottage.html. Outside of the Kina Cottage experience, the holiday home is bookable on Booking.com year-round as the ‘Oceanview Cottage Tutukākā Coast’. 

Contact Details
For any queries, please contact Emily Brown, Mango Communications, at emilyb@omc.com / 027 253 1767

Media Assets 
Including imagery, b-roll, and menu can be found here.  

Notes to Editors
Bookers need to be a Booking.com Genius member to participate. Unlock Genius Level 1 status by simply creating a Booking.com account and log in to automatically enjoy free lifetime access to exclusive travel rewards, starting from a 10% discount toward hundreds of thousands of accommodations and select car rental options globally, with even more rewards unlocked with each Genius level progression. 

*Booking.com Travel and Sustainability Report 2025 

**Booking.com Taste of Home Asia Pacific Report 2025

About Booking.com:  
Part of Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: BKNG), Booking.com’s mission is to make it easier for everyone to experience the world. By investing in the technology that helps take the friction out of travel, Booking.com’s marketplace seamlessly connects millions of travellers with memorable experiences every day. For more information, follow @bookingcom on social media or visit globalnews.booking.com.

Through this collaboration, more than 150,000 new attractions will incrementally be added via the FareHarbor Distribution Network, across thousands of new destinations, significantly expanding Booking.com’s U.S. offering over time and giving travelers greater access to unique experiences worldwide.

The partnership strengthens Booking.com’s Attractions offering while giving FareHarbor’s network of operators direct reach to millions of travelers. FareHarbor now joins Musement, Viator, and Klook as a key partner, helping Booking.com deliver an unrivaled selection of high-quality attractions in more than 5,000 cities and 115 countries. From iconic landmarks to local adventures and outdoor activities, there is something to suit every interest.

Some new attractions include: Montserrat Hiking Tour , Spain, Whitby and Yorkshire Steam Rail, UK, Volcanoes and Hot Springs , Greece and Prague Christmas Market tour.

Booking attractions also enables travelers to level up their Genius status. The Genius loyalty program rewards customers not just for accommodation stays, but also for booking flights, attractions, car rentals, and taxis, unlocking greater value for travelers who can enjoy a more connected and rewarding trip experience.

To assist travelers navigate the growing number of attractions options, Booking.com is leveraging its AI capabilities to help travelers book the perfect experience. By grouping similar activities, or using conversational AI tools, travelers can refine their search and quickly find experiences that match their interests and needs.

Eve Henrikson, SVP of Booking.com’s Trips division, commented, "Seeing attractions and experiencing activities brings a destination to life. They transform a trip from a simple visit into a memorable experience. That’s why we’re excited to work in closer collaboration with FareHarbor to expand our offering with an even wider variety of great things to do in more of the destinations that our customers know and love."

Andrea Carini, CEO of FareHarbor, commented “We’re proud to partner even more closely with Booking.com to give our operators even more ways to grow. This integration unlocks new visibility and demand for experiences on a truly global scale. It’s an exciting step forward in our mission to support local businesses by connecting them to the travelers already booking their trips in their area”.

To browse the growing variety of great things to do around the world as travel and destinations start to open up again, travelers can visit the Attractions tab on Booking.com.

About Booking.com
Part of Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: BKNG), Booking.com’s mission is to make it easier for everyone to experience the world. By investing in the technology that helps take the friction out of travel, Booking.com’s marketplace seamlessly connects millions of travelers with memorable experiences every day. For more information, follow @bookingcom on social media or visit news.booking.com.

About FareHarbor
FareHarbor, a Booking Holdings company, is the leading software provider for the tours and activities sector. Its robust and intuitive reservation system powers over 24,000 businesses around the world, helping them grow and manage their operations with ease. Learn more at www.fareharbor.com.

Grounded in Booking.com’s 2025 Travel Prediction “Boyz II Zen”, the escape taps into a growing demand for travel that supports mental well-being and personal growth, especially among men. Today’s male travelers are increasingly swapping traditional ‘bro culture’ clichés for self-care, with 30% seeking to rest and rejuvenate, 29% wanting to unplug from everyday stress, 24% focusing on personal growth and 23% chasing mental health benefits. And with 65% of Gen Z men planning wellness-centered escapes this year, it’s clear that R&B and R&R might just be the perfect combo.

Boyz II Zen: A Wellness Escape includes a four-night itinerary crafted with care by Boyz II Men themselves — a celebration of calm, connection, and that unmistakable slow-jam spirit:

• A four-night stay for six at a luxury vacation home in the Florida Keys that offers panoramic ocean views, private beach access, and ample space to unwind. It’s the kind of setting that invites guests to whisper let’s chill the moment they arrive.
• Guests will enjoy a private meet & greet with Boyz II Men themselves, featuring an intimate a cappella performance over cocktails. It’s the ultimate R&B daydream: live, personal, and perfectly in tune.
• A beachside BBQ prepared by a local gourmet chef pairs with ocean breezes, paddle boating, and laid-back vibes that promise a full-body experience of relaxation.
• A golf day at a nearby course provides the perfect opportunity to find zen on the green. Tee off with friends and enjoy a laid-back round where the focus is on camaraderie, fresh air, and relaxing the mind.
• A smooth-sailing boat day with pick-up right from the private dock offers slow jams, sea breezes, and good vibes,  because when spending time with one’s crew like this, nothing else matters.
• The stay begins with a Boyz II Brunch featuring comfort classics and soulful dishes that would make any mama proud, all accompanied by a playlist of pure gold.
• Melodic massages and scalp treatments designed to melt away any end of the road tension, leaving guests feeling refreshed and renewed.
• Meditation and yoga sessions set to the soothing sounds of Boyz II Men’s greatest hits encourage stretching and spiritual connection.
• A Zen & the Art of R+B sound bath and breathwork session brings mind, body, and soul into harmony, because self-care deserves a soundtrack.
• Dinners at some of the Florida Keys’ premier local restaurants combine breathtaking views with flavors that hit all the right notes, from motownphilly to main course.

“After decades on the road, we’ve learned that sometimes the most powerful harmony comes from slowing down and experiencing all that travel has to offer,” said Boyz II Men. “That’s why we’re excited to team up with Booking.com to create space in an amazing vacation home where fans can relax, recharge and reconnect with both themselves and each other. Boyz II Zen: A Wellness Escape is all about good vibes, real connection and bringing rhythm into your life and travels in more ways than one.”

With more than 8 million reported listings in homes, apartments and other unique places to stay around the globe, from luxury mansions and beach bungalows to treehouses and houseboats, Booking.com makes it easier for everyone to experience the world. Boyz II Zen: A Wellness Escape by Boyz II Men is just one of countless memorable stays that showcase the platform’s wide range of one-of-a-kind vacation rentals. This cultural collaboration also continues Booking.com’s momentum in unlocking exclusive, buzzworthy experiences — from celebrity-hosted stays to curated itineraries — that merge entertainment, travel, and design in unexpected ways. Because some memories are just better with a soundtrack.

Boyz II Zen: A Wellness Escape by Boyz II Men will become bookable on a first-come, first-served basis for one booker and up to five guests on September 18, 2025 at 10am ET. Priced at just $19.85, a tribute to the year the iconic group was formed, snagging this booking secures a four-night stay from September 27 to October 1, 2025, complete with a wellness itinerary curated by Boyz II Men, a private host, and airport transfers through Booking.com. 

To book and learn more, visit: https://www.booking.com/hotel/us/boyz-ii-zen-a-wellness-escape-by-boyz-ii-men.html

Methodology

Travel Predictions 2025 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total, 27,713 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled. Respondents completed an online survey in July-August 2024.

Press Contact

For media inquiries, please contact Booking.com’s US Press Office: booking.com@allisonworldwide.com 

About Booking.com

Part of Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: BKNG), Booking.com’s mission is to make it easier for everyone to experience the world. By investing in the technology that helps take the friction out of travel, Booking.com’s marketplace seamlessly connects millions of travelers with memorable experiences every day. For more information, follow @bookingcom on social media or visit globalnews.booking.com.

Top Trending Global Destinations for Summer 2025¹ 

1. Hurghada, Egypt
2. Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
3. Tokyo, Japan
4. Dubai, UAE
5. Bangkok, Thailand
6. Alicante, Spain
7. Nice, France
8. Malaga, Spain
9. Rimini, Italy
10. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Families 
 

With 53% of parents making travel a top yearly priority, family vacations are set to play a big role this summer. Today’s families are seeking more than just sun and downtime- 85% of parents say they’re looking for trips that expose children to a variety of cultures and experiences.* Whether that means exploring ancient temples and futuristic tech in Tokyo or enjoying Alicante’s vibrant food scene, families are looking to book trips that inspire curiosity and connection. The way these trips are being planned are also getting easier and smarter, thanks to technology. Families are leading the way in using AI to simplify travel planning, with 85% also saying AI tools make the process faster and more efficient, more than any other traveler type.*  

Top Trending Summer Destinations for Families

1. Hurghada, Egypt
2. Paris, France
3. Dubai, UAE
4. Tokyo, Japan
5. Alicante, Spain

Groups 
 

Group travel is gaining momentum this summer, with 1 in 5 global travelers planning trips with friends.* Leading this trend is Gen Z with 33% opting for group getaways. These younger travelers are seeking experiences that combine social connection with nature as 36% prioritize activities like stargazing and outdoor adventures. This aligns with a broader movement, where 48% of global travelers express a desire to explore natural landscapes such as lakes, mountains and national parks.* 

Top Trending Summer Destinations for Groups

1. Ayia Napa, Cyprus
2. Alicante, Spain
3. Albufeira, Portugal
4. Paris, France
5. Marrakech, Morocco

Couples 
 

In 2025, couples are increasingly valuing memorable experiences over material gifts. A significant majority across generations—73% of millennials, 74% of Gen Z, and 69% of boomers—prefer the gift of travel to physical presents.* This shift aligns with the 45% of travelers planning to take a trip with their partner this year.** For those considering popular destinations like Milan and Alicante, nearby gems such as Trieste and Villajoyosa—both featured in Booking.com's 2025 Trending Destinations—offer enriching cultural experiences and picturesque settings, making them ideal additions to a romantic itinerary.

Top global trending summer destinations for couples 

1. Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt
2. Tokyo, Japan
3. Milan, Italy
4. Dubai, UAE
5. Alicante, Spain

Unique stays on the rise
 

Alternative accommodations are seeing a surge in popularity, with a 10% year-over-year increase in searches compared to last summer. Booking.com offers more than 8.1 million listings in homes, apartments, and other unique places to stay, such as boats, treehouses, country homes, and beachfront bungalows.

While apartments and guesthouses remain the top alternative accommodations this summer, offering comfort, convenience and local charm, travelers are increasingly exploring other options. Trending accommodation types vary by traveler group:

• Group travelers are showing a growing interest in riads and holiday homes, with searches up by 16% and 12%, respectively.
• Families are gravitating towards villas and camping, experiencing surges of 19% and 16%.
• Couples are favoring tented camps and chalets, which have seen increases of 16% and 13%.

Booking.com continues to simplify travel planning for 2025, offering a seamless platform where travelers can arrange every aspect of their journey. With over 30 accommodation categories—including homes, apartments, and unique stays—alongside flights, car rentals, and local attractions, Booking.com connects every element of the trip. Travelers can also take advantage of Getaway Deals, with discounts of up to 20% for stays with checkout before September 30, 2025. Plus, members of the Genius loyalty program unlock even more perks—like free room upgrades and breakfast—at a wide range of properties worldwide, adding extra value and ease to their summer travels.

¹ Trending destinations yielded from accommodation searches for dates between 15 February, 2025  and 15 April, 2025 with check-in dates 1 June, 2025 to 31 August, 2025, compared to search dates between 15 February, 2024 to 15 April, 2024 with check-in dates 1 June, 2024 to 31 August 2024

*Travel Trends 2025 Research was commissioned by Booking.com and independently conducted among a sample of adults who had taken a leisure trip in the last 12 months with an overnight stay and plan to travel in 2025. The sample comprised 32,106 respondents across 32 markets surveyed in January 2025. USA N=2,000, Canada N=800, Spain N=800, Italy N=800, France N=1800, UK N=1800, Germany N=1800, Netherlands N=800, Denmark N=500, Sweden N=500, Croatia N=501, Switzerland N=800, Belgium N=800, Ireland N=504, Austria N=500, Portugal N=800, Mexico N=1,800, Colombia N=800, Brazil N=1,800, Argentina N=800, India N=1,800, China N=800, Hong Kong N=500, Thailand N=800, Singapore N=800, Taiwan N=500, Vietnam N=800, South Korea N=800, Japan N=1,800, UAE N=500, Australia N=1,800, New Zealand N=500. 

** Travel Predictions 2025 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total, 27,713 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled (including 1,016 from Argentina, 1,002 from Australia, 502 from Austria, 1,003 from Belgium, 1,002 from Brazil, 1,006 from Canada, 1,007 from China, 1,005 from Colombia, 501 from Croatia, 501 from Denmark, 1,011 from France, 1,009 from Germany, 1,004 from Hong Kong, 1,002 from India, 506 from Ireland, 501 from Israel, 1,014 from Italy, 1,008 from Japan, 1,013 from Mexico, 1,011 from The Netherlands, 1,003 from New Zealand, 504 from Portugal, 508 from Singapore, 1,004 from South Korea, 1,008 from Spain, 509 from Sweden, 500 from Switzerland, 507 from Taiwan, 1,009 from Thailand, 503 from the UAE, 1,012 from the UK, 1,006 from the US and 1,016 from Vietnam). Respondents completed an online survey in July-August 2024.

The Ultimate Experience for Eurovision Fans
 

The Eurovision fairytale begins on Friday May 16, as the lucky booker and their guest are whisked away for a backstage tour of the St. Jakobshalle—the striking venue for this year’s contest—accompanied by 2009 Norwegian winner and 2018 entrant Alexander Rybak for an exclusive sneak peek behind the scenes of Eurovision.

After a moment to rest and recharge at their luxurious suite at the Nomad Design & Lifestyle Hotel, they’ll rise like a phoenix to attend Booking.com’s Legends Dinner. In between canapés, drinks and a three-course meal, they’ll watch intimate performances from: 2014 Austrian winner Conchita Wurst, 1999 winner and 2008 entrant for Sweden Charlotte Perrelli, 2016 Ukrainian winner Jamala, and Alexander Rybak. After dinner, Jedward, the energetic identical twins who represented Ireland in 2011 and 2012, will round out the night with a sing-a-long session for the VIP guests.

With this year’s host city considered the cultural capital of Switzerland, the booker will also receive €500 of Booking.com credits so they can explore the best of Basel’s attractions during their visit.

On the big night, the two fans will be taken to their heaven as they watch the Grand Final in the company of Eurovision Legends in the Booking.com Blue Room. Located next to this year’s Green Room, the Booking.com Blue Room is as close to all the action of this year’s contest as it’s possible to get without taking part – an unforgettable, douze points experience for any Eurovision fan.

Matthias Schmid, Senior Vice President of Accommodations at Booking.com said:  “As a Swiss native and massive music fan, my heart is swelling with pride that we are collaborating with five Eurovision Legends to create such an iconic experience in Basel for two of our lucky customers. Being able to bring together the inclusive, unifying magic of Eurovision with the joy of travel is truly a delight.”

Book the Ultimate Eurovision Experience:
 

Priced at a Eurovision-tastic €20.25, fans will have to be quick as only one Ultimate Eurovision Experience will be available to book on a first come, first served basis on Friday 9 May at 10:00 (CEST) exclusively on Booking.com. 

For more information about the Booking.com Ultimate Eurovision Experience and to book it on 9 May, visit: https://www.booking.com/hotel/ch/the-ultimate-eurovision-experience.html

About the Eurovision Song Contest:
 

The Eurovision Song Contest is the world’s largest live music event and a global superbrand. The competition, in which participating public service broadcasters that are Members of the EBU, send a new song to represent their nation, has taken place every year since 1956 except in 2020. Content on its main digital platforms TikTok and Instagram collectively reached 555 million accounts with 42 million unique viewers across 231 countries and territories watching content on the official YouTube channel during the week of the Live Shows. 37 public broadcasters will take part in the 69th Eurovision Song Contest on 13, 15 and 17 at the St Jakobshalle in Basel, Switzerland. The Eurovision Song Contest is a celebration of inclusivity, diversity and the power of music to unite.
 

About the European Broadcasting Union:
 

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) is the world’s leading alliance of public service media with 113 Members across 56 countries – along with 31 Associates in Asia, Australasia, Africa and the Americas. It strives to secure a sustainable future for public service media, provide its Members with world-class content through the Eurovision and Euroradio brands, and build on its founding ethos of solidarity and cooperation to create a centre for learning and sharing. Its Members operate nearly 2,000 television, radio and online channels and services, offering a wealth of content for an audience of more than one billion people in 153 languages.

Conchita Wurst
 

Austrian artist Tom Neuwirth, also known as Conchita Wurst, skyrocketed to fame when he won the Eurovision Song Contest in 2014 as a bearded diva, instantly becoming an icon for the queer community. Since then, he has embarked on world tours, released three albums, hosted TV shows, and consistently used his platform to champion socio-political causes. Ten years after winning the Eurovision Song Contest, Neuwirth is more active and productive than ever.

Charlotte Perrelli
 

Charlotte Perrelli is one of Sweden’s most iconic Eurovision stars. She won the contest in 1999 with "Take Me to Your Heaven" and returned in 2008 with the fan favorite "Hero". Known for her powerhouse voice and glamorous presence, she remains a beloved figure in Eurovision history. In 2024, she proved her legendary status once again by performing three major interval acts during the Eurovision Song Contest.

Alexander Rybak
 

Alexander Rybak, is a Norwegian singer, violinist, and composer best known for winning the 2009 Eurovision Song Contest with his self-written hit "Fairytale," which earned a record-breaking 387 points. His Eurovision victory launched a successful music career across Europe, blending pop, folk, and classical styles. In recent years, he’s gained a strong following on social media for his expressive violin covers of Eurovision songs, which regularly go viral for their creativity and emotional depth.

Jamala
 

JAMALA is a Ukrainian singer and songwriter, the winner of Eurovision 2016, the winner of the highest National Shevchenko Award 2024, the winner of the WIBA world award, as one of the most popular influencers of 2022, she entered the TOP-3 most popular world artists in the Spotify Equal 2023 playlist. JAMALA is one of those singers whose voice is heard all over the world. The last album of the singer "QIRIM" (Crimea) was included in the top ten albums of Europe, and the songs from it are actively rotated in more than 15 countries of the world.

Jedward
 

Jedward, the iconic Irish singer-songwriter duo made up of identical twins John and Edward, represented Ireland twice in a row, first in 2011 with the infectious "Lipstick", landing 8th place - Ireland's best result in years and again in 2012 with "Waterline" earning another spot in the Grand Final. Beyond Eurovision, Jedward have carved out a unique space in pop culture. From reality TV to red carpet moments, their fearless fashion and unfiltered authenticity have made them cult icons. They've inspired memes, fan art, and endless headlines proving that pop isn't just about the charts, it's about making people feel something. And Jedward always do. 

The unique Tassie holiday home at the McHenry Distillery offers an immersive stargazing experience hosted by Dr Matt, featuring a guided tour of the stars through a high-powered telescope, premium Tasmanian food and wine, flights, a rental car and sustainable accommodation amongst the remote wilderness. The stay costs just $18.78 - a nod to the year the Eta Aquariids was discovered - and spans two nights from 5-7 May, coinciding with the peak of the celestial display.

The stay comes at a time when more people than ever are turning to the cosmos for rest, rejuvenation, and an escape from the pace of modern life. According to Booking.com’s 2025 Travel Predictions, ‘noctourism’ - traveling to experience the beauty of unpolluted night skies - is on the rise, with over half (57%) of Aussie travellers* planning a visit to a dark sky destination this year. 

Tasmania, renowned for its pristine wilderness and untouched beauty, is a premier destination to witness awe-inspiring celestial events such as the Eta Aquariids. The meteor shower, occurring when Earth passes through debris left by Halley's Comet, puts on a spectacular display best observed from remote parts of the Southern Hemisphere, making Tasmania the perfect setting for this stay. 

The ‘Booking.com Cosmic Cabin’ offers guests a star-studded itinerary including: 

• A personalised star-gazing journey guided by Dr. Matt Agnew, gazing through a telescope at McHenry Distillery’s private observatory
• Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks provided by local makers, producers and chefs
• Photographs captured by a dark sky photographer to celebrate the celestial event
• Flights, car rental, and accommodation at The Booking.com Cosmic Cabin
• A day trip to explore Port Arthur Historic Site before spotting plenty of local wildlife at the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo

Dr Matt said “I was over the moon when Booking.com invited me to host this stellar stargazing experience at one of their many fantastic holiday homes. It’s no surprise that more people are travelling to witness the wonders of the universe, and this unique stay is perfect to experience ‘noctourism’ under the dazzling display of the Eta Aquariids meteor shower. I can’t wait to guide the lucky booker through the stars at the Booking.com Cosmic Cabin.”

The ‘Booking.com Cosmic Cabin’ will be bookable on a first-come, first-served basis on 17 April 2025, from 12pm AEST, for one Booking.com Genius traveller and guest. The booking will include transportation to and from the cabin, and a two-night stay at the home from 5 - 7 May 2025.

Bookers need to be a Booking.com Genius member to participate. Unlock Genius Level 1 status by simply creating a Booking.com account and log in to automatically enjoy free lifetime access to exclusive travel rewards, starting from a 10% discount toward hundreds of thousands of accommodations and select car rental options globally, with even more rewards unlocked with each Genius level progression. 

The unique accommodation is just one example of the many holiday homes and other unique places to stay on Booking.com. Whether looking for eco-cabins, houseboats or high-end homes, Booking.com has something for everyone. With more than 7.9 million reported listings in homes, apartments and other unique places to stay and 45% of new listings getting booked within just a week of going live on the world’s leading travel platform, Booking.com knows how to turn holiday homes and hosts into superstars. 

Todd Lacey, Regional Manager, Oceania for Booking.com commented "Australian autumn is the perfect time for a star-gazing break. Tasmania and destinations around Australia have so much to offer noctourism travellers from around the world, with a variety of holiday homes and cabins tucked away in remote corners of the Aussie wilderness available on Booking.com. 

Searches for Hobart on Booking.com have actually doubled** in the lead up to the Easter and Anzac Day break and we expect interest in dark sky destinations down under to continue throughout winter. The Booking.com Cosmic Cabin exemplifies this growing trend amongst travellers, and helps position Tassie as a world-class dark sky destination that rivals those in the Northern Hemisphere.”

Sarah Clark, Tourism Tasmania CEO, said “Tasmania is the ideal spot for dark-sky tourism.  Our long winter nights provide the perfect opportunity to rug up, look up, and take in the expansive starry sky, nocturnal wildlife and, if you're lucky, the Aurora Australis. To catch a glimpse of the upcoming Eta Aquariid Meteor Shower, experiences like the Cosmic Cabin are a welcomed addition to Tasmania’s many stargazing offerings that allow visitors to marvel at the wonders of the universe."

The ‘Booking.com Cosmic Cabin’ joins the ranks alongside other iconic, once-in-a-lifetime Australian-themed holiday home stays that Booking.com is known for, including the Neighbours finale stay on Ramsay St, a cricket sleepover at the MCG, and the avocado-themed Avo-condo. 

For more information and for the chance to book check out: the ‘Booking.com Cosmic Cabin’.

*Methodology: Travel Predictions 2025 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total, 27,713 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled (including 1,002 from Australia). Respondents completed an online survey in July-August 2024.

**Searches 26 February to 5 March for check-ins Friday 18 April to Sunday 27 April (Easter x Anzac Day Weekend).

The Iconic Madden Cruiser Experience will become bookable on a first-come, first-serve basis for one booker plus a guest on February 3, 2025, at noon ET, for a three-day trip taking place February 7–10, 2025. The exclusive package is priced at $19.87, paying homage to the year that John Madden commissioned his first Madden Cruiser bus, 1987.

The Madden Cruiser Experience includes:

• VIP arrival in New Orleans: Guests will be treated to a seamless and stylish journey aboard the iconic Madden Cruiser, providing round-trip transportation between the airport and their hotel.
• Guided city tour aboard the Madden Cruiser: An exclusive four-hour journey will weave its way throughout the city, making multiple stops within the French Quarter, a walk through of one of the world’s most infamous cemeteries, St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, a close-up look at some of the country’s most iconic mansions in the Lakefront and Garden District, and finally, a stop off in the iconic City Park.
• Exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities: NFL legend Terrell Owens and TV personality Rosci Diaz join the Madden Cruiser guests for a private hangout session.
• Access to a premier Big Game party: Guests will get access to one of the week’s most sought after invitation-only events for an exclusive Saturday night soiree that is sure to be one of the most star-studded events of the weekend.
• Game day tailgate and festivities: Guests will arrive in style aboard the Madden Cruiser to an exciting tailgate and viewing party, set in the iconic Warehouse District in shadow of the stadium. Throughout the day, guests will be treated to the sights, sounds, and tastes of New Orleans as they watch the world's biggest sporting event, including snacks delivered from award-winning chefs, cocktails from the city’s best bartenders and musical acts to keep the day alive from start to finish. The Madden Cruiser will always be nearby for guests to hop on and hop off throughout the day so they can rest and recharge while not missing a moment of the most action-packed day in sports. 

“From hotels to vacation rentals, and even to the Madden Cruiser plus everything in between, Booking.com makes it easy for you to find your perfect stay,” said Ben Harrell, Managing Director of the US at Booking.com. “The Big Game is a major cultural moment in the U.S. and we’re excited to not only give bookers the chance to experience an unforgettable weekend aboard the Madden Cruiser during football’s biggest weekend, but also to debut a Booking.com commercial during the game, which aims to inspire Americans to explore the wide variety of travel experiences they can book on the site.”

New Orleans continues to be one of the most beloved travel destinations in the U.S., known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and unparalleled hospitality. According to recent Booking.com data*, the city ranks among the top-searched destinations for American travelers during the Big Game weekend. With its unique blend of Creole and Cajun influences, iconic landmarks, and world-renowned cuisine, New Orleans offers something for everyone. The The Iconic Madden Cruiser Experience provides travelers with the perfect opportunity to immerse themselves in the heart of this dynamic city, with Booking.com making it easier for everyone to experience the world, from a wide variety of places to stay to local attractions and transportation options such as car rentals and flights—all in one place.

For more information and for the chance to book The Iconic Madden Cruiser Experience on Booking.com, check out: 

https://www.booking.com/hotel/us/the-iconic-madden-cruiser-experience-new-orleans2.html

To see the Madden Cruiser take an unforgettable road trip through Louisiana's football country, tune in to THE MADDEN CRUISER: A BAYOU ADVENTURE WITH BILL BELICHICK on Sunday, February 9 at 12pm ET on FOX.

*Based on search sessions for American travelers between January 5, 2024 and January 12, 2025, with check-in dates February 7, 2025 to February 10, 2024.

A new chapter in family travel

In APAC, multigenerational households are 43% more common than the global average. This cultural emphasis on extended family living significantly influences how families approach travel as well, with shared family values and close-knit relationships shaping their vacation choices. Booking.com conducted this research to better understand how family dynamics across generations could influence travel behaviour and decision making, offering fresh insights into a travel approach that is particularly relevant in this region. 

Intergenerational travel brings families closer together, with 47% of travellers highlighting the joy of bonding and creating lasting memories with loved ones; while 39% value reconnecting with family they don’t often meet. 27% enjoy learning from different generational perspectives, and 26% cherish watching their children learn from different familial role models.

This trend varies regionally: In New Zealand, travellers most focus on reconnecting with distant family members, while in India, the emphasis is on passing down traditions and cultural heritage. In Vietnam, families particularly appreciate the support with childcare and the chance for children to learn from role models beyond their parents.

Planning a trip that delights every generation

Planning a family vacation that satisfies everyone—from seasoned grandparents to the energetic kids and even the occasionally moody cousin—is no small feat. Families often grapple with increased safety and health concerns (30%), clashing interests (30%), and the challenges of diverse dietary needs (28%). Balancing energy levels (27%) and navigating family dynamics (25%) can further complicate the travel experience.

The secret to a successful trip? Creating experiences that resonate across generations. Over 1 in 4 (27%) of families enjoy travelling for reunions or special occasions, seeing these moments as a chance to unite and celebrate milestones together. Visiting relatives (21%) is another favoured choice, allowing families to deepen their bonds and experience local cultures. Food experiences (21%) and sightseeing (20%) are also popular vacation activities, providing opportunities to explore new cultures and cuisines as a family. 

Each region brings its own unique travel preferences to the table.  Thai travellers favour beach and coastal trips, embracing sun and sea; Taiwanese families are the biggest foodies, centering vacations around culinary experiences. Vietnamese families stand out for their interest in cruises, more than twice as likely to plan one compared to the regional average, while Indian families show enthusiasm for major sporting events, concerts, and music festivals.

Millennials often take the lead in planning family trips, driving 48% of travel arrangements with their tech-savvy approach. Yet, it’s not a one-person show—Gen Zs are eager to chip in, with 47% co-planning and personalising itineraries. Baby Boomers, on the other hand, tend to take a backseat, with only 23% actively involved in planning.

When it comes to trip duration, most families find that 4 to 6 days is the sweet spot—long enough to relax, short enough to avoid travel fatigue. In booking their adventures, families show a surprising flair for spontaneity. Over half (51%) of travellers are open to last-minute getaways, booking their trips with less than a month’s notice. This spontaneous spirit even extends to vacations longer than 6 days, with 40% also booking within a month. 

Accommodation choices are as varied as the families themselves. Hotels remain the go-to for 49% of families, with resorts following as the preferred option for 36%. A growing trend is emerging towards unique stays—around 25% of families are drawn to culturally immersive stays such as ryokans, hanoks, homesteads, treehouses, and longhouses, adding a touch of local flavour and adventure to their trips. Regardless of the type, practical considerations are paramount: affordability (41%), proximity to attractions (29%), and convenient on-site dining (27%) lead the decision-making process.

There are distinct accommodation preferences across the region too. In China, families are drawn to culturally immersive accommodations like traditional homesteads and heritage-rich architectural gems. Thai families, on the other hand, gravitate toward seaside options, from luxurious villas to budget-friendly beach homes for their coastal escapes. In South Korea, families often prefer staying with friends or family for a personal touch, or opting for guesthouses that offer an authentic glimpse into local customs and lifestyles.

Destinations capturing the hearts of families

Not surprisingly, safety (46%), affordability (39%), and accessibility for all age groups (30%) top the list of priorities when families choose their travel destinations. While environmental sustainability (13%) and cultural immersion (13%) are appreciated, they take a backseat to these core concerns.

42% of travellers prefer to travel to domestic destinations, benefiting from shorter travel distances and familiarity with local customs. Meanwhile, 39% crave the excitement of international travel, eager for new experiences and cultural encounters.

Some destinations are emerging as clear favourites among families for their blend of cultural allure, diverse activities, and family-friendly amenities. Here’s a look at the top and trending destination choices for families in APAC, according to the Booking.com platform:

“Families in Asia Pacific are embracing intergenerational travel like never before, creating opportunities for richer connections and shared experiences across generations,” said Laura Houldsworth, Managing Director, Asia Pacific at Booking.com. “Our new research highlights the unique ways families are approaching their vacations, from balancing diverse needs to exploring new destinations. This study provides valuable insights into how Booking.com and the travel industry overall can support  families in Asia Pacific make the most of their adventures, across generations - and make it easier for everyone to experience the world.”

The study was created in collaboration with global consumer research platform GWI. For more details on the study, explore the attached full report.

_________

¹Top destinations for intergenerational travel are identified as the most popular locations in 2024 based on search volumes on Booking.com.

²Trending destinations for intergenerational travel are determined by analysing year-on-year search volume changes between 2023 and 2024 on Booking.com to highlight emerging interests.

CONTACT DETAILS

For any queries, please contact the Booking.com APAC Press Office;

E: sg-booking@allisonworldwide.com 

M: +65 9725 1115

METHODOLOGY

This report draws from the combined expertise of Booking.com and GWI, offering a comprehensive view of travellers across APAC, with a focus on intergenerational travel. By integrating GWI’s online survey data with Booking.com’s proprietary search analytics, we gained exclusive insight into travellers through a mix of customised research data, complemented by global syndicated research and additional first party search data.

This report primarily references data drawn from customised research, created exclusively for Booking.com by GWI (Online research among internet users aged between 16-64, across 11 APAC markets: Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam.

Booking.com data was based on searches made on the Booking.com platform between January 1 and March 31, 2024 by travellers from 11 APAC markets: Australia, China,  Hong  Kong,  India,  Japan,  New  Zealand, Singapore,  South  Korea,  Taiwan,  Thailand  and Vietnam; with check-in dates between April 1 and December 31, 2024. Top destinations were determined based on search volumes in 2024. Additionally, trending destinations were identified by analysing year-on-year search volume changes between 2023 and 2024, with a filter applied to exclude cities with fewer than 500 searches in the previous year to ensure data significance and integrity. Additional data is integrated from GWI Core, a flagship syndicated survey of internet users aged 16-64; and GWI Travel, which looks at travellers aged 16-64 to explore what makes or breaks their experience.

The Ludacris Welcome To Atlanta Summer Send-Off will include an itinerary curated by Ludacris featuring: 

• A 2-night stay on Ludacris’ sprawling 22 acre compound, his official residence since 2003.
• A special 30-minute meet and greet with Ludacris, where guests will have an opportunity to chat with the star and take memorable photos.
• Bask in the Atlanta sun, paddleboat on the lake and enjoy a catered BBQ featuring delicious food grilled by a local chef–perfect for family bonding time.
• A private screening in a lavish indoor theater, perfect for watching some of Ludacris’ most iconic movies.
• Shoot hoops or serve aces on Ludacris’ private basketball and tennis courts for a friendly game of family competition.
• Feel as if you’ve stepped into the beloved fast car movie franchise scene by getting chauffeured in a luxury ride for the duration of the experience.
• Dinner at one of Ludacris’ favorite French restaurants, Le Bilboquet, in Buckhead with a menu worthy of Ludacris himself.
• Signed copies of Ludacris' chart-topping albums, Word Of Mouf, Chicken-N-Beer and other favorite goodies to take home as keepsakes.

Almost two-thirds (62%)* of Americans rank spending quality time as a family as the main motivator for traveling this year and Ludacris’ sprawling Atlanta estate is more than just a home – it’s a family’s paradise! Nestled amidst 22 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, this luxurious home even boasts an indoor movie theater. Outdoors, lucky guests can enjoy a full-size basketball court, tennis court, and a serene lake, perfect for relaxation and recreation. With a quarter (24%)* of American travelers expressing the desire to stay at the home of a famous celebrity, this experience at Ludacris’ estate is the ultimate family getaway! 

“I'm excited to be Booking.com’s newest host and welcome guests into my Atlanta home for the ultimate family getaway,” said Ludacris. “As a dad of four kids myself, family time is incredibly important to me, and I’m thrilled to open my home so guests can create unforgettable memories as a family. I’m all about making it easier for everyone to celebrate life’s special moments, and I appreciate how Booking.com makes it easy for everyone to experience the world. It’s going to be epic!”

The Ludacris Welcome To Atlanta Summer Send-Off will become bookable on a first-come, first-served basis for one booker plus three guests on August 28 2024, at noon ET, for a two-night stay taking place on September 3-5, 2024, priced at only $4.04, an homage to Ludacris’ hometown area code. In addition to the two-night stay, the experience includes a full itinerary curated by Ludacris himself, a dedicated host, and airport transfers through Booking.com to experience Ludacris’ extravagant world.  

Members of Booking.com’s loyalty program, Genius, will get even more out of their experience. When booked by a Genius Level 3 member, Ludacris’ Welcome To Atlanta Summer Send-Off will be upgraded to personalized breakfast-in-bed from Ludacris’ favorite local cafe. Unlock Genius Level 1 status by simply creating a Booking.com account and automatically enjoy free lifetime access to exclusive travel rewards, starting from a 10% discount toward hundreds of thousands of accommodations and select car rental options, with even more rewards unlocked with each Genius level progression. 

This incredible stay at Ludacris’ A-Town pad is just one example of the many vacation homes and other unique places to  stay that Booking.com offers. Whether looking for dreamy beach bungalows, treehouses, houseboats, lakeside cabins or high-end homes, Booking.com has something for everyone. With more than seven million reported listings in homes, apartments and other unique places to stay, and 45% of new listings getting booked within just a week of going live on the world’s leading travel platform, Booking.com knows how to turn hosts into superstars. Ludacris joins the ranks alongside other Booking.com celeb hosts including Martha Stewart, Mariah Carey, and Sarah Jessica Parker. 

For more information and for the chance to book check out: Booking.com The Ludacris Welcome To Atlanta Summer Send-Off.

*Methodology: Travel Trends 2024 research commissioned by Booking.com and independently conducted among a sample of adults who took a leisure trip with an overnight stay in the last 12 months, plan to travel in 2024, and are involved in trip planning. The sample comprised of 32,300 respondents across 32 countries and territories (including 2,000 from the US) who were surveyed in January or February 2024.

About Booking.com: 

Part of Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: BKNG), Booking.com’s mission is to make it easier for everyone to experience the world. By investing in the technology that helps take the friction out of travel, Booking.com’s marketplace seamlessly connects millions of travelers with memorable experiences every day. For more information, follow @bookingcom on social media or visit globalnews.booking.com.

Follow us on  TikTok,  Twitter and Instagram, like us on Facebook, and for the latest news, data and insights, please visit our global media room. 

The Mandrake – London, United Kingdom

Located in the heart of Fitzrovia in London, this fashionable hotel isn’t shy with its provocative use of color and works of art that enliven every snug corner. The Mandrake promises an immersive experience and succeeds in enveloping its guests with its black floors, plum velvet sofas and glittering chandeliers. The cozy opulence theme runs into dramatic suites with warm tones and dashes of gold, adorned with giant feathers, four-poster beds and free-standing bathtubs. Providing balance to the rich decor is a leafy interior terrace cased in living walls of jasmine and passion flowers that brings the outdoors inside. Guests can nourish their mind, body and soul at the Spiritual Well-being Concierge and pick from a curated list of healing sessions and sound baths, while the hotel’s destination bars serve ethnobotanical cocktails and its restaurant YOPO cooks up South American cuisine. The Mandrake provides the perfect cocoon from the lively culture of the Soho neighborhood, but guests can explore more right on the doorstep with a London Music Tour (Soho) for the inside scoop on Ziggy Stardust and the Rolling Stones in this cool capital. 

Thompson Chicago – Chicago, United States

Taking center stage on the iconic Gold Coast in Chicago, this downtown hotel will woo stylish types seeking a casual luxury vibe, in amongst historic mansions, designer shops and upscale restaurants. In the grand lobby, the wood-beam ceiling, homey bookshelves and burgundy velvet couches are inviting, with coppery chandeliers illuminating a permanent warm glow. Sleek mellow and toasty rooms are made airy with floor-to-ceiling windows, and feature soft high-thread count sheets and rainfall showers, while upgraded rooms add lake views, some with private terraces. Chicago is renowned for its food scene and onsite restaurant, Nico Osteria, serves handmade pasta and grilled seafood in an open kitchen setting, while the gold-glowing and dimly lit bar features an impressive soaring glass atrium. The excellence in design spills out into the city of Chicago itself, which is famed for its grand architecture. Guests can discover this district’s past on a Gold Coast Hidden History Self-guided Audio Walk, an app-guided tour past several historical landmarks, including Chicago’s oldest piano bar, at their own pace. 

Hotel Sahrai – Fez, Morocco

Perched on a hilltop with expansive views across the city, and set in a stone, Moorish-style building, this hotel’s opulent interior is steeped in tradition with a contemporary feel. A warm glow is omitted everywhere in this cleverly designed stay, from the natural North African light shimmering through arches to the twinkling brass lanterns in the spa. Designed by French interior designer, Christophe Pillet, calming neutral rooms are layered with sheer curtains, Italian furniture and soft Moroccan rugs, while the bathrooms feature heavy drapes around a sunken bath for guests to sink into. Facilities include an impressive infinity pool, a rooftop tapas bar cocooned in a dark conservatory-style lounge with DJ beats, and a spa that features marble steam rooms and a warm jade green dipping pool. When venturing out into this spiritual city, take a Guided Tour of the Medina in Fes and dip in and out of the souks for some retail therapy, while exploring mosques, carved cedar courtyards and ancient stucco work.

Mandarin Oriental – Hong Kong

An urban retreat based in the heart of Hong Kong, this hotel blends Oriental heritage with modern luxury and channels the city’s glamorous past and present. Guests can hunker down in the honey-colored lobby, amongst walls of gleaming black and champagne marble, gilt screens and glittering chandeliers. Silken rooms and suites are styled in shades of gray and gold, with vintage Hong Kong artwork and sweeps of glossy dark wood, all to the backdrop of the twinkling city skyline. Visitors can indulge their culinary senses in the nine bars and restaurants, two of which hold Michelin stars, or the cake shop, filled with comforting sweets as opulent and ornate as the hotel itself. The food includes time-honored Cantonese cuisine in a refined setting from sauteed lobster to wok-fried Wagyu, while at the spa guests can experience chi-enhancing massage and vibrational healing. For more sensory pleasures, book an ARTE M Admission to experience one of the most iconic art galleries in Hong Kong, and its exhibition Eternal Nature, which reinterprets the place of nature within art.

Villa Cora – Florence, Italy 

Travel back to the 19th century at this immaculately restored estate hotel that delivers opulence in every rich shade. Each floor of the villa reflects a distinct mood, from the Empress Eugénie and her passion for roses to 1950s America. Lashings of vibrant fabrics and textiles dress every room, including windows draped with heavy silks – all complemented by frescoed ceilings, gold paintwork, polished parquet floors and vast chandeliers. Attention to detail is second to none with silken lavender bags left by staff on pillows at night, and decadent rose-scented toiletries continually being replenished. Guests can dip into the gentle hive of activity as little or as much as they want, from cooking lessons with the Italian chef to a poolside bar and soothing spa which offers a tepidarium, hammam and sauna. The building itself is set inside a park on a low hillside that overlooks the Boboli gardens, and its roof terrace hosts impressive views of the famous Chianti hills and rolling vineyards. Guests can hire a car to explore this wine region, and an Organic Winery Tour and Tasting comes highly recommended. 

Huka Lodge – Taupō, New Zealand

Nestled in verdant countryside next to the Waikato River on New Zealand’s North Island, this luxury lodge comes from humble beginnings as a fisherman’s camp. Today, the deep green and blue color scheme in the communal areas emulates the hotel’s surroundings and is peppered with soft tartan notes, antique furniture, and quiet nooks to curl up in. Upstairs, guests can sink into super soft beds, weighted down with rich and heavy bed linen, while bifolding doors with riverside views open onto wooden patios. Rich dishes and wines permeate the hotel restaurant’s menu too, which serves regional delights from Te Matuku oysters and Mount Cook alpine salmon to Matangi beef and Southland lamb. The hotel facilities are extensive and guests can take a dip in the heated outdoor pool or hot tub, hit some balls in a game of tennis or lawn croquet, or cozy up around the outdoor fireplace with a blanket. The lodge is just a short walk to the scenic Huka Fall and guests can explore more of the beautiful local area on a Ngātoroirangi Māori Rock Carvings Boat Cruise around Lake Taupō. 

*Research commissioned by Booking.com and independently conducted among a sample of 42,513 respondents across 33 markets (2,000 from USA, 1,008 from Canada, 2,000 from Mexico, 1,000 from Colombia, 2,000 from Brazil, 1,000 from Argentina, 2,000 from Australia, 1,000 from New Zealand, 2,000 from Spain, 2,000 from Italy, 2,000 from France, 2,000 from UK, 2,000 from Germany, 1,000 from Netherlands, 1,000 from Denmark, 1,000 from Sweden, 1,000 from Croatia, 1,000 from Switzerland, 1,000 from Belgium, 1,000 from Ireland, 1,000 from Portugal, 1,000 from Israel, 2,000 from India, 1,000 from China, 1,005 from Hong Kong, 1,000 from Thailand, 1,000 from Singapore, 1,000 from Taiwan, 1,000 from Vietnam, 1,000 from South Korea, 1,000 from Japan, 500 from UAE). In order to participate in this survey, respondents had to be 18 years of age or older, had to have traveled at least once in the past 12 months, and planning to travel in 2023 and be either the primary decision maker or involved in the decision making of their travel. The survey was taken online and took place in January and February 2023.

Alnwick, Northumberland, United Kingdom
 

English pancakes are made in the same way as French crêpes but are slightly thicker and traditionally topped with lemon juice and sugar. During Lent, Christians would give up rich foods such as butter, eggs, sugar and fat and Shrove Tuesday was the last chance to eat them. In the UK, gigantic ‘Shrovetide’ football matches have been an annual Pancake Day tradition since the late-1800s and Alnwick, a quaint castle-crowned town in north-east England, is where the action still happens. On Shrove Tuesday, hundreds of spectators flock to the grounds of Alnwick Castle and the Duke of Northumberland kicks off the game by throwing the football into the waiting crowd – and while the match usually takes place between rival parishes, anyone can get involved. Off the pitch, Alnwick is home to many farmers markets selling local produce including meats, cheeses and baked goods, and no trip to Northumberland would be complete without a visit to its breathtaking coastline. Book the Northumberland Tour App for a self-guided tour that takes travelers off the beaten track to discover hidden gems. 

Where to stay: The gorgeous Fairfield House near the tiny village of Warkworth makes a great base to explore Northumberland’s beautiful coastline, and is just a 12km drive away from Alnwick Castle. This rural Victorian home nestled amongst lush gardens is a haven for a restful break, with refined rooms and antique-style decor. A full English breakfast and pancakes are available for breakfast and served in a dining room which overlooks the terraced garden. 

Hiroshima, Japan
 

Go bigger and better with an okonomiyaki pancake in Japan. The Hiroshima version layers batter, shredded cabbage and pork, with optional toppings of squid, octopus, yakisoba noodles, cheese and even a fried egg. The friendly city of Hiroshima in southwestern Japan, known for its complicated history, is also a picturesque paradise for foodies. Leafy downtown is full of restaurants serving up their own versions of okonomiyaki and includes a small area known as Okonomimura (Okonomiyaki Village) which is devoted to these savory pancakes. For travelers looking to sample other delicacies, a Hiroshima Food Tour with a Local Foodie is another must-have addition to a trip menu, with stops including a traditional tea ceremony and momiji manjū, maple-leaf shaped cakes. Outside of its thriving food scene, explore Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and its moving message of peace as the first city in history to suffer a nuclear attack. 

Where to stay: In a prime location just a short walk from Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Okonomiyaki Village, Hiroshima no Yado Aioi offers a unique and modern ryokan stay. Each room is equipped with authentic tatami floors (thick, woven straw mats), futon beds and short-legged tables, while a traditional onsen bath with panoramic views of the city is available to guests. What’s more, this ryokan offers kaiseki-style dining, a Japanese multi-course dinner, made using the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. 

Sougéal, Brittany, France
 

The classic French crêpe, a whisper-thin pancake, is now loved and imitated all over the world. In France, Pancake Day is known as Mardi Gras, which translates to ‘Fat Tuesday,’ and fatty foods are eaten, with the French favoring eating crêpes on La Chandeleur, a traditional holiday celebrated on February 2. Accordingly to folklore, crêpes originated in Brittany, France’s northwesternmost region, back in the 13th century when someone accidentally dropped thin porridge on a hot stovetop. Crêpes have come a long way since, and are now an iconic staple dish in French gastronomy. Visitors to Sougéal, a commune in Brittany, will be

enchanted by the natural beauty of this quaint town – and, of course, by the many local crêperies in the area. Nearby, on the tidal island of Mont-Saint-Michel, travelers can explore more French history and be transported back to the Middle Ages on a Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey Audio Tour with this symbol of French national pride that rises dramatically from the sea. 

Where to stay: With its own rich history evident in its renovated charm, the Agritourisme Abaé B&B is just a short drive from local crêperies and Mont-Saint-Michel. Surrounded by verdant greenery, the historic building features exposed stonework, preserved fireplaces and original beams, and its friendly owners offer double and family rooms and a hearty breakfast. For those embarking on a day trip, this B&B also provides delicious packed lunches, including vegetarian options.  

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
 

Typical Ethiopian food is based around injera, a spongy, slightly sour pancake made from a grain called teff and laid on a flat dish and topped with curry. The result is a meal where the injera pancakes are both a plate and – when the edges are folded over – cutlery, as it's also used to scoop up sauces and stews. Shiro wot stew is made with roasted ground chickpeas, split peas and a distinctive seasoning blend of chili peppers and spices, and while meat is available most Ethiopian food is vegan as avoiding animal products is important for its large community of Orthodox Christians. Addis Ababa, the capital and largest city of Ethiopia is a hive of activity and arguably the best place in the country to sample Ethiopian food. Travelers will find some of the city’s best restaurants all competing to produce the best injera. To explore more of the local cuisines and learn about the city's vibrant history, book a Guided City Food Tour which kicks off with a caffeine injection in the Bole Atlas neighborhood with a world-famous Ethiopian brew. 

Where to stay: The fountain-encircled Sheraton Addis, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Addis Ababa sits on a hilltop in the heart of the city with stunning views and acres of open space. This five-star stay features suites with separate living rooms and villas with private plunge pools. Beyond the accommodation, the hotel offers an outdoor pool with underwater music, a soothing spa, a hip nightclub and several gourmet restaurants offering Ethiopian specialties. Better yet, guests can feel assured that this luxury hotel is supporting the local area, as it invests a percentage of its revenue back into community projects. 

St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
 

In Newfoundland and Labrador, the most easterly province of Canada, travelers can tuck into classic pancakes with a twist. At first glance, Canadian pancakes served with famous maple syrup don’t appear that different from the fluffy batter-based stacks favored in the USA. Yet Newfoundlanders have an age-old tradition of hiding small coins and charms in the pancakes that foreshadow the finder’s future, with items that predict spouses to prospects of wealth. Newfoundland and Labrador’s icebergs and puffins have attracted travelers for decades. Yet its colorful seaside capital, St.John’s, has recently become a popular culinary destination with its diverse food scene ranging from creative takes on traditional cuisine to the freshest seafood and wild game. To learn more about its rich history, and explorer John Cabot who first sailed into the city’s harbor, The Best of St. John’s Walking Tour comes highly recommended. 

Where to stay: For foodies and history lovers enthralled by St. John’s past, the historic Ryan Mansion is just a short walk away from a raft of restaurants. On a tree-lined street in the heritage district, this boutique hotel echoes the opulence of a bygone era and features a grand staircase built by those who crafted the staircase on the Titanic. All guest rooms at this luxury stay feature antique furnishings, a fireplace and designer linen, as well as heated marble bathroom floors and two-person tubs. A Titanic-themed dinner event is available on request. 

*Travel Predictions 2024 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total, 27,730 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled (including 1008 from Argentina, 1012 from Australia, 505 from Austria, 1001 from Belgium, 1002 from Brazil, 1009 from Canada, 1009 from China, 1002 from Colombia, 508 from Croatia, 504 from Denmark, 1011 from France, 1011 from Germany, 1016 from Hong Kong, 1004 from India, 510 from Ireland, 504 from Israel, 1014 from Italy, 1004 from Japan, 1009 from Mexico, 1014 from The Netherlands, 1015 from New Zealand, 500 from Portugal, 502 from Singapore, 1010 from South Korea, 1009 from Spain, 502 from Sweden, 507 from Switzerland, 504 from Taiwan, 1003 from Thailand, 502 from the UAE, 1007 from the UK, 1005 from the US and 1007 from Vietnam). Respondents completed an online survey in July 2023.

The Countryside Chameleon 

This self-confessed townie, usually welded to their phone, adopts an off-grid alter ego on vacation who blends seamlessly into rural life. With half (51%)* of all travelers revealing that the stripped-back lifestyle of agrarian communities would appeal to them in 2024, the Countryside Chameleon is keen to immerse themselves in nature as the antidote to frenetic life back home. Trading white shirts for wellies, computers for compasses and fast food for foraging, AI stands for ‘All In’ for this city dweller who is eager to embrace extremes to replenish their batteries. Remote rustic farm stays have huge appeal, such as the Agriturismo B&B Luna di Quarazzana nestled in the rolling hills of Tuscany with animals roaming around and breakfast served straight from the gardens. Booking.com also has a range of activities to help this traveler connect with nature, from a Private Rocky Mountain Foraging Experience to a hands-on Seaweed Foraging Walk and Abalone Farm, unearthing wild local delicacies and making self-sufficiency a way of life. With this chameleon not afraid to get their hands dirty, and no evident withdrawals from their self-imposed tech ban, locals are none the wiser to their city slicker status. 

The Insta-Fashionista 

Dust off daring clothes from the back of the wardrobe and get ready to work on a social media rebrand. With over half (57%)* of all travelers feeling ‘main character energy’ on vacation, the Insta-Fashionista lets the streets of a destination become the catwalk dedicated to their main character moment. For this traveler, who is still wearing pajama bottoms on virtual calls and slumming it on the daily, a getaway is an excuse to step up their style game. Body confidence and a new lease of life are the first things they unpack, inspiring bolder and braver fashion choices and a fusion of evergreen sexy street style, chic separates and lavish accessories. Booking.com even offers personal shopping and styling experiences around the world from Paris and Milan to New York and Las Vegas with pros on hand to ensure every look is on fleek. On vacation, the Insta-Fashionista sends social media into overdrive by booking unique experiences to step into swag that has no place at home: Transcend to a new level of refinement taking in a Sydney Opera House Show, or don the best retro neon activewear for a Guided Venice Beach Tour and rollerblading excursion along this iconic boardwalk. 

The Untethered Spirit 

Toss the planner aside and set off on a liberating, soul-searching getaway where the spirit can roam free. This autonomous traveler relinquishes control for the art of letting go, and embraces experiences that spark unadulterated joy with carpe diem their motto on vacation. Tied to a strict routine back home, with endless demands and a chokka calendar, they want to ditch everyday expectations and break free of boundaries. Partial to vacay activities that allow them to soar beyond their limitations, a Tandem Skydive Experience over Franz Josef Glacier is well-suited to this traveler, or a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Luxor will let them fly high above sacred Egyptian temples. The Untethered Spirit is keen to break away from the heaviness of home and build bliss on vacation, with immersive trips tailored to prioritizing their own peace: Chable Yucatan in Mexico, for example, offers a ‘You are the Love Story’ retreat in the jungle designed to ease heartbreak and increase self-worth, while the Nirjhara resort in Bali is an ideal spot for a spiritually-inspired reset, offering blessings, sound healing and cleansing rituals. 

The Social Butterfly

This affable traveler enjoys backpacking and hostel-hopping, and wants to engage with locals and other travelers as much as possible on vacation, chatting to everyone they meet. Back home, they tend to WFH and miss IRL interaction so traveling is a way to recharge their social battery. With more than a third (37%)* of all travelers making up stories about their real life to people they meet on vacation, don’t expect this caterpillar to come out of its cocoon with a strong sense of self. Bored of the mundane day-to-day, the Social Butterfly loves the thrill of morphing into different versions of themselves as they flit from place to place. With upscale hostels having a renaissance, this traveler can enjoy all the perks of a hotel with company guaranteed; the luxe Kinnon Deluxe Hostel Coworking Cafe, for example, features private rooms and dorms in the heart of Bangkok with sociable areas including a restaurant and rooftop garden, while the Viajero Buenos Aires Hostel in the Argentinian capital has a lively bar and indoor and outdoor pools. Booking.com also has a wealth of group activities all around the world from pub crawls to island-hopping adventure tours, ideal for meeting new people. 
 

The Superstar

Oversized sunnies and soft top at the ready. For the Superstar, the world is their oyster on vacation, at their beck and call with limitless opportunities and experiences. They radiate pure me, me, me energy and crave all eyes on them at all times. Whether on the beach or at dinner, this attention-loving traveler, accustomed to taking a backseat to everyone else back home, is determined to drive their main character moment. What better way to channel this alter ego than a sunset drive with the beats blaring? With 42%* wanting to rent a nicer car than they drive at home to live their finest lives on vacation, Booking.com offers deals on high-end cars from cool convertibles to SUVs. The Superstar can also bag an experience that puts them in the limelight, from a Professional Recording Studio Experience in Melbourne where they can become a bona fide rockstar for the day to a K-pop Dance Class & Video Shooting in Seoul to record their very own music video. To round off the vacation, join the glitterati and book a professional photoshoot available in destinations from Santorini and Bangkok to Miami Beach and Las Vegas, complete with vistas guaranteed to accentuate the Superstar’s best angle. 

*Travel Predictions 2024 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total, 27,730 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled (including 1008 from Argentina, 1012 from Australia, 505 from Austria, 1001 from Belgium, 1002 from Brazil, 1009 from Canada, 1009 from China, 1002 from Colombia, 508 from Croatia, 504 from Denmark, 1011 from France, 1011 from Germany, 1016 from Hong Kong, 1004 from India, 510 from Ireland, 504 from Israel, 1014 from Italy, 1004 from Japan, 1009 from Mexico, 1014 from The Netherlands, 1015 from New Zealand, 500 from Portugal, 502 from Singapore, 1010 from South Korea, 1009 from Spain, 502 from Sweden, 507 from Switzerland, 504 from Taiwan, 1003 from Thailand, 502 from the UAE, 1007 from the UK, 1005 from the US and 1007 from Vietnam). Respondents completed an online survey in July 2023.

Wonka tells the wondrous, wholly original story of how the world’s greatest inventor, magician and chocolate-maker became the beloved Willy Wonka we know today. The film introduces audiences to a young Willy Wonka—fresh from his travels sourcing ingredients and flavors from destinations across the globe—who is determined to change the world one delectable bite at a time. Wonka’s Sweet Suites are choc full of adventures inspired by the beloved chocolatier for bookers to feel ‘main character energy’ during their travels, like over half (64%)* of U.S. travelers who want to be the main star of their vacation, according to new data from Booking.com. 

At Park Lane New York’s Conservatory Suite and Viceroy Santa Monica’s Palmetto King Suite, guests will enjoy all-you-can-treat experiences and edible amenities such as limited-edition, fun, and imaginative Wonka© Magic Hat Gummies in four fruity flavored combinations, life-sized chocolate confections, a replica of the tree in Wonka’s candy shop, and a decadent chocolate bar bed topped with marshmallows set amidst cotton candy clouds for the sweetest dreams, like those in the new film. In addition to the overnight stays, the experience will come with tickets to see Wonka in theaters, vintage destination posters and stamp wallpaper inspired by the chocolatier’s travels, candy-inspired beverages, and more. 

Wonka’s Sweet Suites in both New York City and Los Angeles will become bookable on a first-come, first-served basis for two pairs of guests on December 13 at noon ET, for each stay taking place December 15 - 16, priced at only $12.15, a tip of the top hat to the day the film releases in theaters nationwide. Each experience will come with overnight stays, itineraries and airport transfers through Booking.com to whisk the bookers to their sweet escapes. 

Lucky bookers who are members of Booking.com’s loyalty program, Genius, can get even more out of their Wonka-inspired experience. When booked by a Genius Level 2 or Genius Level 3 member, Wonka’s Sweet Suites experience will be upgraded to include a free chocolate-infused breakfast. It’s never too late to treat yourself to the rewards that come with a Genius membership, and those who have a Booking.com account will automatically enjoy free lifetime access to exclusive travel rewards, starting from a 10% discount toward hundreds of accommodation and select car rentals, with even more rewards unlocked with each Genius level progression. 

Booking.com offers the widest choice of incredible places to stay, so for those not quick enough to book Wonka’s Sweet Suites this season, rest assured that this is just one example of the millions of memorable travel experiences that Booking.com offers for travelers looking to sweeten their next trip, including these scrumptious candy-inspired places to stay:  

Hotel Fabrica do Chocolate | Viana do Castelo, Portugal
Pousada Burundanga | Itacaré, Brazil
ODSweet Duomo Milano Hotel | Milan, Italy
Royal Mansour Marrakech | Marrakech, Morocco
Soneva Fushi | Kunfunadhoo Island, Maldives
Adelphi Hotel | Melbourne, Australia

For more information on Booking.com and Wonka’s Sweet Suites, visit 
https://www.booking.com/hotel/us/wonka-sweet-suite-new-york.html and https://www.booking.com/hotel/us/wonka-sweet-suite-los-angeles.html

*Travel Predictions 2024 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total, 27,730 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled, including 1,005 from the US. Respondents completed an online survey in July 2023.

About Booking.com: 

Part of Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: BKNG), Booking.com’s mission is to make it easier for everyone to experience the world. By investing in the technology that helps take the friction out of travel, Booking.com’s marketplace seamlessly connects millions of travelers with memorable experiences every day. For more information, follow @bookingcom on social media or visit globalnews.booking.com.

Follow us on TikTok, Twitter and Instagram, like us on Facebook, and for the latest news, data and insights, please visit our global media room.

About Wonka: 

Based on the extraordinary character at the center of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Roald Dahl’s most iconic children’s book and one of the best-selling children’s books of all time, “Wonka” tells the wondrous story of how the world’s greatest inventor, magician and chocolate-maker became the beloved Willy Wonka we know today.

From Paul King, writer/director of the “Paddington” films, David Heyman, producer of “Harry Potter,” “Gravity,” “Fantastic Beasts” and “Paddington,” and producers Alexandra Derbyshire (the “Paddington” films, “Jurassic World: Dominion”) and Luke Kelly (“Roald Dahl’s The Witches”), comes an intoxicating mix of magic and music, mayhem and emotion, all told with fabulous heart and humor. Starring Timothée Chalamet in the title role, this irresistibly vivid and inventive big screen spectacle will introduce audiences to a young Willy Wonka, chock-full of ideas and determined to change the world one delectable bite at a time—proving that the best things in life begin with a dream, and if you’re lucky enough to meet Willy Wonka, anything is possible.

Starring alongside Chalamet are Calah Lane, Emmy and Peabody Award winner Keegan-Michael Key, Paterson Joseph, Matt Lucas, Mathew Baynton, Oscar nominee Sally Hawkins, Rowan Atkinson, Jim Carter, with Oscar winner Olivia Colman and Hugh Grant. The film also stars Natasha Rothwell, Rich Fulcher, Rakhee Thakrar, Tom Davis and Kobna Holdbrook-Smith.

Simon Farnaby & Paul King wrote the screenplay, based on a story by King and characters created by Roald Dahl. Michael Siegel, Cate Adams, Rosie Alison and Tim Wellspring are serving as executive producers. King’s behind-the-scenes creative team includes director of photography Chung-Hoon Chung, Oscar-nominated production designer Nathan Crowley, editor Mark Everson, Oscar-winning costume designer Lindy Hemming and composer Joby Talbot. Neil Hannon of the band The Divine Comedy is writing original songs for the film.

Warner Bros. Pictures Presents, in Association with Village Roadshow Pictures, a Heyday Films Production, a Paul King Confection, “Wonka,” set to open in theaters and in IMAX internationally beginning 6 December 2023 and in North America on December 15, 2023; it will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures.

About Highgate: 

Highgate is a leading global real estate investment and hospitality management company widely recognized as an innovator in the industry. Highgate is the dominant player in major U.S. gateway cities including New York, Boston, Miami, San Francisco and Honolulu, with a growing footprint in Europe, the Caribbean and Latin America. The hospitality forward company provides expert guidance through all stages of the property cycle, from planning and development through recapitalization or disposition. Highgate has a proven record of developing its diverse portfolio of bespoke lifestyle hotel brands, legacy brands, and independent hotels and resorts with contemporary programming and digital acumen. The company utilizes industry-leading revenue management tools that efficiently identify and predict evolving market dynamics to drive outperformance and maximize asset value. With an executive team consisting of some of the most experienced hotel management leaders, the company is a trusted partner for top ownership groups and major hotel brands. Highgate maintains corporate offices in New York, Dallas, Los Angeles, Miami, Seattle, Waikiki, London and Lisbon. www.highgate.com.

• Breadth of choice: Travelers can immediately access more than 10,000 sailings on over 30 cruise lines, including the largest and best-in-class cruise lines in the world, from more than 55 departure ports across the globe. Whether a 3-night budget-friendly cruise to the Bahamas, 7-nights island hopping around the Caribbean, a river cruise through Europe or a 2-week luxury expedition sailing in Antarctica, Booking.com Cruises offers a voyage for every traveler.
   
• Always-on deals: Understanding the importance of competitive pricing and added value, customers will have access to always-on deals throughout the year, including up to $50, $100, $500 or even $1,000 to spend at sea via on-board credits depending on the total amount spent. In celebration of the launch of Cruises, and just ahead of Black Friday this November, Booking.com will be doubling the exclusive spend at sea reward. Additional exclusive spend at sea deals will also be offered on select cruise lines including Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian, Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International and several others**. 
   
• Greater ease: Cruise customers can also tap into Booking.com’s marketplace to arrange every element of their trip in one place whether that involves booking transportation to a departure port, reserving accommodations before or after the cruise, or organizing in-trip experiences at designated port locations. Customers also have the option to book their cruise online or via phone with the help of US-based cruise experts 24/7, and live chat is available to all cruise site visitors. A 110% Best Price Guarantee is also offered on every cruise booking, providing customers who find a lower price on another website within 48 hours of booking with Booking.com Cruises a 110% refund of the difference.
   

“At Booking.com, we are committed to making it easier for everyone to experience the world and with the United States being the largest market for cruises globally, it is important for us to meet and service this demand through our platform, said Ben Harrell, Managing Director, US at Booking.com.” “We are excited to roll out Booking.com Cruises, in partnership with World Travel Holdings, and further expand our offerings for travelers in the United States.”

Industry reports show that 85% of people who have cruised, will cruise again, marking a 6% increase compared to pre-pandemic seasons***. In fact, Booking.com’s Traveler Predictions 2024 revealed that 75% of US travelers agree that being close to water instantly makes them feel more relaxed, and over a third demonstrating interest in water-centric vacations for 2024. While the Caribbean, Europe and Alaska continue to be the top destination regions for sailings, travelers can tap into the vast inventory of cruises on Booking.com around the world and choose from more mainstream cruises on larger ships with varying itineraries, luxury cruises offering an upscale experience and river sailings on smaller ships for a more niche experience.

As of November 9, Cruises will become available to a growing percentage of Booking.com users in the United States over the coming weeks. US travelers will have access to the product offering via a dedicated page on Booking.com’s desktop and mobile versions. 

* CLIA, 2022 Global Market Report

**Black Friday 2023 deals will be available from November 16 to November 29, 2023. Select cruise line offers will be live from November 20 to November 30, 2023.

*** CLIA, 2023 State of the Cruise Industry Report

About World Travel Holdings:

World Travel Holdings is the nation’s largest cruise agency and award-winning leisure travel company with a portfolio of nearly 40 diverse brands. In addition to owning some of the largest brands distributing cruises, villas, resort vacations, car rentals, resort day passes and luxury travel services, World Travel Holdings has a vast portfolio of private-label partnerships comprised of top leisure travel providers, including almost every U.S. airline, leading hotel brands and prominent corporations. The company also operates a top-rated travel agency franchise and is consistently recognized as an industry leader in employee engagement and work-at-home employment. Its global presence includes operating multiple cruise brands in the United Kingdom. World Travel Holdings has offices in Wakefield, Mass.; Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.; and Chorley, England. For more information, visit WorldTravelHoldings.com.

●      A welcome tour of the Tenant House at Martha’s Bedford farm where guests will be treated to their overnight stay

●      A guided tour of the property by Martha’s Head Gardener Ryan McCallister, during which guests will experience her Insta-famous chicken coop, gardens and stables

●      A table setting and wreath-making demo with Executive Director of Design Kevin Sharkey, with his tips for how to make your Thanksgiving extra special

●      Brunch with Martha herself, prepared by James Beard Award-Winning Chef Thomas Joseph

●      Signed copies of Martha’s prized cookbooks and other goodies to ensure guests are Thanksgiving ready

Spanning over 150 acres of perfectly manicured grounds in Westchester County’s charming town of Bedford, Martha’s beautiful farm is the idyllic retreat for rest, relaxation and design inspiration at every turn. The entrepreneur restored the centuries-old property, which features her classic style throughout the buildings’ pristine décor. Martha’s guests will enjoy tips and tricks from the hosting maven for holiday entertaining and setting the perfect table just like she does in the property’s stunning kitchen and dining areas. With 67%* of American travelers inspired to visit new places after watching cooking shows like Martha’s, this is the perfect getaway for fans and foodies alike.

“Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite holidays to celebrate, which is why I’m excited to be Booking.com’s newest host and welcome guests to my Bedform farm for a Thanksgiving-inspired stay ahead of the big day,” says Martha Stewart. “I’m all about making it easier for everyone to celebrate life’s big moments, so I really appreciate how easy Booking.com made it to list my Tenant House on the site. Every year, my Thanksgiving holiday prep begins weeks before hosting my family in Bedford, so I can’t wait to welcome the guests that book this experience to my fall-ready Tenant House on the farm and look forward to sharing my favorite Thanksgiving-inspired traditions during their stay.”

Martha Stewart's Thanksgiving-Inspired Farm Stay will become bookable on a first-come, first served basis on November 16 at noon ET, for a stay taking place November 18 - 19, priced at only $11.23, in honor of Thanksgiving. In addition to the overnight stay and full itinerary curated by Martha, the experience will include airport transfer through Booking.com.

 This amazing stay is just one of the vast vacation rental options Booking.com offers – from dreamy beach bungalows, treehouses and houseboats, to woodsy havens, lakeside cabins and high-end homes. Featuring approximately seven million vacation rental listings, and with 45% of new vacation rental listings receiving a booking within just a week of being live on the world’s leading travel platform, Booking.com is well-versed in the art of happy “hosts,” and Martha Stewart is about to be one of them!

For more information on Booking.com and Martha Stewart's Thanksgiving-Inspired Farm Stay, visit https://www.booking.com/hotel/us/martha-stewarts-thanksgiving-inspired-farm-stay.

*Travel Predictions 2024 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total, 27,730 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled (including 1005 from the US) and 127 Boomers. Respondents completed an online survey in July 2023.

Only one lucky pair of guests will be able to book this exciting experience and be flown to Seoul, where their extraordinary journey into the world of K-pop will unfold. Their exclusive access begins with a two-night stay at the Executive Producer Suite at RYSE, Autograph Collection - a haven typically reserved only for the biggest stars.

From coveted front-row seats at the live music show, M COUNTDOWN, to a private idol makeover led by celebrity hair and makeup artists, every moment of the Ultimate K-pop Experience has been meticulously crafted to ensure guests will live and breathe the essence of everything K-pop culture has to offer.

About the stay

Located in the vibrant Hongdae district, guests will receive the ultimate K-pop star treatment with their stay at RYSE’s Executive Producer Suite, featuring the trendy Y2K aesthetic, a dazzling private stage for guests to belt their favourite K-songs in their version of a ‘noraebang’ (karaoke room), and even an in-suite hot food station featuring their Korean favourites like ramyeon and tteokbokki, to take room service to the next level.

Booking.com has also teamed up with none other than K-pop sensation, KANGDANIEL, to add the finishing touches to the experience with exclusive fan treatment – including autographed albums and personalised recorded content by KANGDANIEL himself.

“I’m thrilled to join forces with Booking.com to bring K-pop fans an experience they will never forget. Together, we’ll showcase the very best of K-pop and all the incredible things Seoul has to offer. Travelling brings me pure happiness and a whole new level of inspiration, and I can’t wait to share that joy with my fans,“ said KANGDANIEL.  

How to book
 

K-pop fans should set their alarms for 7 August 2023 at 10 a.m. KST, in anticipation of when the Ultimate K-pop Experience will be up for grabs on Booking.com. The stay will take place from 31 August to 2 September 2023, and is priced at an incredible USD$25.07 (KRW33,000) as a special nod to KANGDANIEL’s debut on 25 July 2019. Celebrating the diversity of booking options and travel experiences, ranging from local attractions and transportation options like rental cars and flights available on Booking.com, this unique stay is just one of the many unforgettable experiences available on the platform.

This experience will include:

●      Flights, airport and local transfers, and all local transportation to and from attractions and activities 

●      A two-night stay at the Executive Producer Suite at RYSE, Autograph Collection, including USD $250 in credits for use in the hotel

●      Two front row tickets and VIP treatment at live music show, M COUNTDOWN

●      A head-to-toe K-pop makeover with professional hair and make-up artists who work with K-pop idols and celebrities, from IU and Lee Seunggi to members of Girls Generation and Kep1er, done in the comfort of the suite 

●      A photoshoot to follow the makeover, and a printed photo book to take home as a keepsake

●      A private dance lesson with YN Company to master the hottest new K-pop choreography

●      Signed albums and exclusive, personalised recorded content from KANGDANIEL 

●      And more!

“Music and travel go hand in hand and K-pop is undoubtedly a big pull for travellers as part of South Korea’s appeal. With our Ultimate K-pop Experience, we wanted to celebrate the amazing ways the Korean wave can inspire memorable and unique travel memories via its beloved food, local experiences and of course, K-pop. The stay also gives guests a taste of how easy it is to explore their favourite cities with Booking.com, whether it’s finding surprising and wonderful stays, or tapping into local cultures with unique experiences,” said Laura Houldsworth, Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Booking.com.

[1] Also known as the ‘Korean Wave’ 

Worldwide, the new partnership will connect travelers on the go with easy, seamless access to an even greater range of attractions and things to do, all instantly bookable in a couple of taps on Booking.com. 

Klook, the category leader for experiences in Asia, is the latest attractions partner to integrate with  Booking.com. Klook experiences are now live in over 175 cities, across over 30 markets on Booking.com, and the majority of these are available in Asia and Oceania.

Both Musement and Viator already collaborate with Booking.com to give global travelers unrivaled choice in terms of high-quality experiences from trusted providers, particularly in North American and European markets. From tours and theme parks to unique local experiences, Booking.com offers the ‘must-dos’ alongside the more niche and unusual attractions in over 1,100 destinations. 

Matthias Schmid, SVP for the Booking.com Trips Division, commented: “This year was an important year for travel. Borders are opening up, restrictions are easing, and travelers are once again traveling - and showing more enthusiasm and vigor than ever before.

“With everyone keen to get the most out of every opportunity, experiences are more important than ever. They make a trip special, meaningful and above all, memorable.

“What a time to be partnering with Klook, a well-known, highly respected household name for travel and experiences, particularly in the Asia Pacific, where this new partnership will significantly increase our coverage and offering within the region. We’re very excited about this collaboration and all the new attractions and experiences we can now provide.”

Wilfred Fan, Chief Commercial Officer, Klook, commented: “We’re delighted to partner with Booking.com, connecting their user base to the amazing and unique experiences that the Asia Pacific region has to offer. Cross-border travel in Asia Pacific is just taking off, and this partnership will enable our merchants to reach an even larger customer demographic globally and accelerate travel recovery in the region.”

As the renaissance of global travel continues at pace, the Booking.com platform connects millions of customers to a vast number of attractions all around the world. Supporting the recovery of museums, tours and other activities, it’s also helping to support the local communities that so often depend on them.

Travelers can simply visit the Attractions tab on Booking.com to book an attraction or experience. Any tour or activity operator interested in the Klook partnership with Booking.com can reach out to Klook via https://merchant.klook.com/introduction.

On Booking.com, travelers can arrange every element of their trip in one go, from finding the right flight to renting a car, from arranging a local tour to booking the perfect stay whether that’s a holiday home near the beach, a traditional ryokan, a five-star hotel or a city apartment for a weekend getaway. Trip planning has never been easier.

Viator is a Tripadvisor company and leader in experiences with a marketplace of over 400,000 tours and activities around the world. The integration with Booking.com will begin with key destinations in North America and Europe, with additional destinations and inventory to follow over the coming months.

“Experiences are the most memorable part of any trip, and we’re delighted to bring more tour and activity options to Booking.com’s travelers, particularly as travel returns,” said Sarah Dines, Vice president of Business Development at Viator. “Bringing our experiences inventory to Booking.com’s massive audience of travelers is an exciting integration for travelers and tour operators alike.” 

Bryan Batista, SVP of Booking.com’s Trips Division, commented, “As people start to think about traveling again, we are pleased to be teaming up with Viator, to provide our customers with an expanded choice of relevant tours, attractions and activities in key destinations around the world. This collaboration further underlines our ambition and commitment to create a seamless end-to-end experience across the entire travel journey. We’ll continue to innovate and focus on making it easier for travelers to experience the very best a destination has to offer, ready in time for when we can all travel more freely and widely again.”

This integration marks the first time Viator and Booking.com have partnered on experiences, and will bring added value and increased choice to Booking.com’s customers, as well as Viator’s global community of tour operators and providers. 

To browse the growing variety of great things to do around the world as travel and destinations start to open up again, travelers can visit the Attractions tab on Booking.com. For tours, activities and attractions that are interested in the Viator integration with Booking.com, they can reach out to Viator Supplier Support using the ‘Chat Us’ feature in the Management Center for more details.

Activities is one of the growth drivers of the TUI Group, which last year sold approximately ten million activities in holiday destinations and in European home markets, such as Germany. Through the strategic partnership with Booking.com, one of the world's leading online travel providers, the TUI Group is now significantly expanding its third-party business in the activities sector. Under the agreement with Booking.com, customers will eventually have direct access to a portfolio of over 70,000 tours, attractions and activities via TUI subsidiary Musement, launching incrementally on Booking.com over the coming months. Musement will be the first third-party provider of tours, and activities inventory on the Booking.com travel platform, as the company seeks to expand its offering and provide customers with a more comprehensive end-to-end travel offering. 

TUI acquired Musement, a Milan-based technology start-up, 18 months ago and intends to develop it into the world's leading platform for tours and activities. The next step is to grow the platform’s portfolio to encompass one million activities, experiences and excursions. In addition to guests enjoying these activities in holiday destinations, a growing offering in the European home markets is also planned. The goal is for customers to be able to take full advantage of the digital offering whether at home or on holiday. 

"Attractive and varied options all over the world, easy and quick for customers to book - that is what we will offer through this cooperation. The expansion of digital experience marketing is a focal point of TUI's digital strategy. The purchase of Musement and the expansion of its portfolio of activities, bookable on the platform, is now being followed by the partnership with Booking.com, an expert in worldwide marketing. We have a unique profile in the activities sector, which makes us attractive to both customers and major tourism partners," said David Schelp, MD of TUI Destination Experiences. The Group will further accelerate its transformation into a digital company. 

“Seamlessly connecting travellers with the widest possible choice of great things to do is part of our long-term mission to make it easier for everyone to experience the world,” said Lawrence Hester, Vice President of Attractions at Booking.com. “We know that people are already starting to dream of taking trips once it’s safe again, even if that’s a bit closer to home at first. We’re busy laying the foundation to make sure we can provide our customers with the best possible mix of tours, activities and unique experiences all on one platform. TUI and Musement have a highly-compatible technology platform, a scalable business model and a curated offering that we believe will be very appealing to our global customer base. As such, we are delighted to be taking the next steps in this journey together with them.”

The marketing of TUI's products to Booking.com customers is currently slated to start in July, with customers being able to choose from up to 70,000 options from the Musement inventory of tours, attractions, activities and experiences. As part of the agreement, the TUI subsidiary will continue to expand its portfolio over the coming weeks and months, taking into account the special requirements of Booking.com. The diverse portfolio includes also numerous activities for holidaymakers on vacation in their home country this summer, from wellness and adventure experiences, to tickets for museum visits and attractions, as well as guided city and individual sightseeing tours. A growing part of the portfolio also includes exclusive offers that travelers can only find at Musement.

CityBook will be fully focused on helping travelers once they have arrived in their destination, whether it’s by providing curated recommendations around things to do, showcasing local offers and discounts, or providing content to help travelers get a feel for the city to help them make decisions, all with the purpose to help Booking.com better understand what is most relevant for consumers in-destination. The CityBook products, content and features that consumers like best will then be rolled into the core Booking.com app, furthering Booking.com’s vision to help customers’ choice and simplicity throughout their entire travel journey. 

Leveraging machine learning models that take into account a traveler’s location, the makeup of their group (family, couple or solo traveler) where they’re at in their trip (first day vs the last day of the trip), as well as the weather and real-time availability, CityBook makes contextually-based recommendations to help travelers get the most out of their trip, including how to get back to their accommodation from any spot in the city. The technology that powers CityBook brings together powerful trip research all into one place with instant recommendations, so there is limited need to plan extensively in advance.

“With CityBook, we want to put all the best possibilities for experiencing a city in the palm of your hand,” said Ram Papatla, Vice President of Experiences at Booking.com. “Bouncing between dozens of sites and apps to get the best information and then still having to book everything separately is not the most enjoyable or seamless process. We want to help people focus on the fun part of travel planning - inspiration - and make the booking and organization for a trip a snap, with actionable content that’s all bookable in a couple of taps and all conveniently organized in one place.” 

“Exploring these new functionalities and a more connected in-trip experience through a pilot product like CityBook, enables us to innovate quickly, collate learnings and iterate in an even more agile fashion and with a heightened level of focus,” Papatla added. “Based on how travelers engage with CityBook, it will evolve further with various features potentially being incorporated into the core Booking.com app.”

Whatever device or platform customers prefer, their trip experience is completely synced. Whether downloading the app for Android or iOS or simply visiting the web version of the CityBook site on desktop or mobile, once a customer has logged in with their Booking.com account details, they are set to discover, make plans and experience the city - all on their own terms.

CityBook is currently available in English for Amsterdam, London and Paris, with Tokyo, New York City, Berlin, Barcelona and Rome scheduled for launch over the coming months. Once available for a city, Booking.com customers with an upcoming booking will be invited to use CityBook for their upcoming trip.

As the region’s leading provider of ride-hailing services, Grab is also the creator of Southeast Asia’s foremost super app. Booking.com, with its unique understanding of travelers and their needs, has long been an integral part of many visitors’ experiences in Southeast Asia. This initiative combines the strengths of two market-leading travel tech companies and marks the first time Grab has worked with a Western global digital travel brand to build a native experience.

Already, each company is known for empowering customers through innovative, mobile-first technology. 130 million visitors travel to Southeast Asia every year, and Booking.com and Grab coming together will provide them with the tools they need to travel like a local:

• Access to millions of Grab drivers, giving international travelers unprecedented access to safe, affordable and comfortable transport options across Southeast Asia
• In-app, cashless payments in user’s currency, delivering greater security and confidence, while removing the worry and expense of haggling, language difficulties and currency conversion
• Customer services in user’s language, so they know what to expect and are able to resolve any issues that may arise
• All-in-one functionality – a single app that provides complete control over accommodation and travel, meaning no need to download unfamiliar apps
• Speed and reliability, so each traveler spends less time researching and organizing their trip, and more time enjoying it
• Safety – travelers can relax, knowing that all Grab driver-partners are registered and undergo stringent background checks

Booking.com app users will be able to access Grab services in Singapore from today, in Indonesia and Thailand by the end of the year, and in Cambodia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Vietnam and the Philippines by early 2020.

70% of the world’s ride-hailing activity takes place in Asia as a whole – and Southeast Asia, with its love of mobile technology, is the obvious arena in which to take on the challenge of ride-hailing. Wi-Fi networks are already pretty much ubiquitous in the region, and smartphone usage is predicted to triple before 2021 is out.

“It’s an exciting time, as people discover new ways to explore the world around them,” said Bryan Batista, Chief Executive Officer of Booking.com’s transport division. “Like Grab, we’re delighted to be pushing the boundaries, combining our unique strengths to deliver added value and bring travelers real, tangible benefits.

“Our mission is as simple as it is ambitious: we’re making it easier for everyone to experience the world. Looking ahead, we’ll continue to test and develop innovative products. By placing intuitive technology in our customers’ hands, we’re giving them the freedom to explore – with greater choice and personalization than ever before.”

“Grab’s core mission since day one has been to make it safer, easier and more affordable for anyone to get from point A to point B in Southeast Asia,” said Mark Porter, Chief Technology Officer for Transport, Mobility, and Core Technology at Grab. “Today millions of Southeast Asians rely on us every day to get to work, home and play. We’re very happy to work with Booking.com to give international travelers the ability to explore this beautiful region more freely and with greater peace of mind. Booking.com has been a fantastic partner, and we’re excited to continue working with them to build even better travel experiences through technology.”

The integration of Grab’s ride-hailing services into the Booking.com app is part of a broader strategic partnership between Booking Holdings and Grab. Booking Holdings is an investor in Grab, and Grab has introduced hotel bookings directly through its app, in partnership with Agoda and Booking.com.

Utilizing its unique scale and experience, Booking.com is partnering with transport providers all around the world to give travelers intuitive access to the relevant, personalized transport options they’re looking for. Already, people can pre-book taxis in over 120 countries, and rental cars in over 160. And, through an ongoing pilot scheme, travelers can buy and use public-transport tickets in six European and Australian cities, all through their Booking.com app.

Booking.com’s all-encompassing ambition is to connect the trip: giving travelers a single platform they can use to book, pay for and manage every element of every trip, from accommodation and transport to experiences and attractions.

References

• https://www.globaldata.com/tourist-arrivals-to-asean-will-reach-155-4-million-by-2022-says-globaldata/
• https://medium.com/siili-automotive/the-most-interesting-players-in-the-ride-hailing-market-cad8a3fd6448
• https://medium.com/financex/southeast-asia-mobile-internet-usage-increasing-dramatically-bb63266affb5
• https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Business-trends/Southeast-Asia-eclipses-China-as-world-s-mobile-economy-hot-spot

Big Ben – London, UK Situated on the banks of River Thames, the iconic clock tower of Big Ben is a British icon and one of London’s (perhaps even the world’s) most recognizable landmarks. Originally named the Clock Tower, the massive bell was completed in 1859 and is attached to the Palace of Westminster. Chiming every 15 minutes, the sound of the bell can be heard as far as the Tower Bridge on a quiet evening.

Where to stay: Situated opposite the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London offers stylish rooms, studios and apartments. Home to the award-winning Brasserie Joël, which serves classic French-influenced bistro dishes with a twist, this modern hotel is a great choice for guests who want to stay in the heart of London and even snap a picture of London’s historic landmarks from their bedroom window.

Acropolis – Athens, Greece Endorsed by Booking.com customers for history and ancient landmarks, the Greek capital of Athens is home to one of the world’s most iconic monuments, the Acropolis. Built between 447 and 438 B.C, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Parthenon is the chief temple of the Acropolis and one of the most significant examples of the ancient Greek architecture.

Where to stay: Set opposite from the Acropolis, the AthensWas Hotel features spectacular views of the Parthenon. The MODERN Rooftop Dining restaurant on the seventh floor is a great spot to enjoy modern cuisine or a refreshing cocktail while taking photos of the illuminated Acropolis by night.

Empire State Building, New York City, USA If you are looking for a single image to capture the stunning New York City skyline, then the Observation Deck of the iconic 102-story Empire State Building on the Fifth Avenue is the place to be. The Art Deco skyscraper is one of the most photographed and recognizable landmarks in the world and has a fascinating history dating back to the start of the New York City Art Deco era. The Empire State Building is open daily until 2:00 am and visitors can enjoy the stunning night skyline by the sounds of the live saxophone on Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 11PM – 1AM.

Where to stay: Located in Midtown Manhattan, you don’t even need to leave the Arlo NoMad to capture a great shot of the Empire State Building. The hotel’s rooftop bar features expansive views of the city, including the best view in Manhattan of the Empire State Building. Thanks to its close proximity to the iconic landmark, guests can also visit the Empire State Building during the late night opening hours and avoid the long lines.

Eiffel Tower – Paris, France If tourists were only allowed to take one photograph in Paris, it would have to be of the Eiffel Tower! Built by Gustave Eiffel, the French cultural icon is one of the most photographed and most visited structures in the world. Visitors can enjoy a stunning 360° view from the top deck, while after sunset the tower is illuminated and offers a spectacular light show of sparkles every hour on the hour.

Where to stay: Set in a renovated, historic building, Résidence Charles Floquet is a short 175 feet from the Eiffel Tower and offers spacious, self-catering rooms with spectacular views of the Eiffel Tower. Guests can watch the glittering lights from your living room after the sun goes down.

Taj Mahal – Agra, India Situated in the Indian city of Agra, the spectacular mausoleum of Taj Mahal is a symbol of devotion, built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife. The stunning architectural masterpiece is among the Seven Wonders of the World and one of the world’s most photographed tourist attractions. Endorsed by Booking.com travelers for monuments, sightseeing and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the city of Agra is a colorful destination that attracts millions of visitors every year.

Where to stay: Less than a half mile from the Taj Mahal, The Oberoi Amarvilas Agra boasts luxurious rooms, a relaxing spa, landscaped gardens, an outdoor pool, four dining options and, not to mention, unparalleled views of the Taj Mahal. Guests can enjoy traditional Indian specialties at the hotel’s restaurants or a glass of wine at the bar overlooking the imposing Taj Mahal.

Duomo - Florence, Italy Endorsed by Booking.com travelers for museums, history, art and architecture the city of Florence is a landmark itself! Home to the iconic Duomo and many artistic masterpieces including Michelangelo’s “David” sculpture and Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus”, this well-known destination is a journey back in time. The Piazzale Michelangelo, a square with a panoramic view of the city located in the Oltrarno district, is the perfect spot to snap a photo of Florence’s breath-taking skyline, no matter what time of the day.

Where to stay: In the center of Florence, and a short 5-minute walk from the Piazza del Duomo, is the Firenze Rentals Corso 12. This beautiful property offers self-catered apartments with a balcony overlooking the magnificent Duomo.

Great Wall of China – Huairou, China 

One of the most significant structures ever built and largest historical site on earth, the Great Wall of China is the world’s longest wall offering an amazing route over steep mountains and deep valleys. The most popular and best preserved section of the wall is the Badaling Section, but visitors can plan a route that suites. No matter which route you choose, discovering The Great Wall of China is a once in a lifetime experience, so don’t forget to snap some photos!

Where to stay: Flower Yard is a 6-minute drive away from Mutianyu Great Wall and a 15-minute drive from Jiankou Great Wall. The property offers barbecue facilities, an on-site restaurant with grocery delivery available on request, as well as a games room.

1. Meet the Matterhorn

Jump on the train, which takes you up 3,100 meters above sea level, until you reach your destination. The highest lodging in the Alps sits proudly in a car-free village with views of the Matterhorn and a neighbouring glacier. Ready for a grand quest? Take a late night snowshoe expedition—the only possible way to get around this secluded spot—and be mesmerized by fantastic views of the Milky Way and planets visible to the naked eye. 3100 Kulmhot el Gornergrat, Switzerland

2. Off-roading in Oman

A rugged 4-wheel drive through the mountains takes you to the middle of nowhere… until you approach an extravagant fort. Set in the phenomenal Al Hajar Mountains, exploration of this ancient land leads to the discovery of historic forts, castles, mosques and more UNESCO heritage sites. Strap on your boots and head in the other direction to experience Oman’s magnificent untouched beauty in the rugged terrain. Alila Jabal Akhdar, Oman

3. Time to Explora Chile

Walk outside and pause for a moment to soak up the majestic mountains that serve as a backdrop for painting your perfect adventure. This 5 star hotel is situated in the middle of Torres del Paine National Park, offering you the finest views of glorious Patagonia. To help you get started, Explora Patagonia offers more than 50 explorations on foot, horseback, bicycle or boat! Far from typical tracks, you are led by trailblazers who thrive off of creating new and exciting routes. Explora Patagonia, Chile

4. Misty Eye of the Mountain Below

You won’t see fire inside this mountain, but you can certainly have a Dwarf’s adventure. Deep into the mountains of Switzerland, below the surface, lies the Felsenhotel La Clauustra. After spending your day trekking through the Swiss Alps, go below the rocks and follow the tunnel to explore the luxurious wonders of your cave stay. Felsenhotel La Clauustra, Switzerland

5. The Ultimate Slope

Calling all ski and snowboarding fanatics! Here’s your chance to stay in a national monument and high tech hotel that’s only reachable by cable car. Time to get down the mountain? Lock-in and hit the surrounding slopes. Hotel Ještěd, Czech Republic

6. Majestic Mexico

At the highest point of one of Mexico’s most breathtaking canyons awaits a thrill seeker's haven. Survey the canyon by zip line, mountain bikes, the world’s longest cable car, tryolean (pulling yourself across the canyon harnessed upside-down) and more. This beautiful stay is packed with stunning views, perfect to capture your epic experience. Hotel Mirador Posada Barranca, Mexico

7. Icy Adventures

If sleeping in a glass igloo with views of the northern lights doesn’t feel extreme enough, add a husky, reindeer, snowmobile or tank safari. Need more options? How about a sleigh ride drawn by reindeer or horses. And for the exciting part, take your favorite mode of transportation and go “aurora hunting” (searching for the best panoramic views of the northern lights). Oh but we're not done, Kakslauttanen Igloo Village offers ice fishing, skiing, snowboarding, and icebreaker day cruises where you can ‘wetsuit up’ and jump off a ship into the ice. Kakslauttanen Igloo East Village, Finland

8. The Rainforest

Trek through Ecuador’s striking rainforest to discover one of National Geographic’s most “unique lodges in the world.” Situated in a nature reserve, Mashpi Lodge provides guests with an array of extreme excursions! Take a hike to enjoy exquisite waterfalls, kayak through the river or take a sky bike—a zip line on a bike—through the trees. Mashpi Lodge, Ecuador

9. Trekking and Tracking

Learn to be a warrior while sleeping like a king in the heart of Africa. Venture out 200,000 acres into the raw wilderness and learn survival skills from a Samburu warrior. These are not the typical survival skills you learned at summer camp. We’re talking leopard tracking, spear and panga training, bush camp building, and even goat shepherding - everything you need to be a warrior and embark on the sacred journey to Mount Olokwe (the neighboring mountain). And because every great warrior needs a great rest, these epic opportunities are tied to the area’s most – and only lush accommodation. Saruni Mara, Kenya

10. Deep into the Desert

Hop on a camel and journey through the desert canyon, far beyond the eye can see, until you reach your mystical tented camp. In this open range you can explore the surrounding dry mountains and reach new heights and limits. When the sun goes down, let the stars light your way back to exotic tents where a traditional Jordanian meal will be waiting for you. Salem Camp, Jordan

Paris, France

Known as the city of love, Paris is a must visit for any lovers seeking a romantic destination this Valentine’s Day. Top attractions to celebrate this special day include taking a trip to the Musée du Louvre, having a picture taken in front of the iconic Eiffel Tower, visiting the medieval Notre-Dame Cathedral or taking a scenic boat tour down the beautiful River Seine. Booking.com travellers endorsed Paris for sightseeing, museums and shopping.

Stay in the Regina and set your heart a flutter with this sumptuous and luxurious hotel located right in the heart of Paris in the shopping and museum district and overlooking the iconic Louvre. Decadent and oozing with elegance and style, this five-star hotel will be sure to provide the perfect backdrop to your Paris get-away, with all the city’s delights on your doorstep.

Bangkok, Thailand

While Bangkok may not be the first destination that springs to mind for romantic getaways, the energetic and enticing capital of Thailand offers a lot more than just a lively nightlife and full moon parties. Booking.com travellers endorsed Bangkok for sightseeing, culturally diverse food and shopping.

The city is packed with restaurants, five-star hotels and spas, boat cruises and historic temples. The Grand Pearl Cruise is a must - this luxury river cruise and dining experience serves dinner under the moonlight to live music and traditional Thai dance. For something a little different the Moon Bar offers an al fresco rooftop dining experience, high above the city boasting panoramic views of the nightlife and vibrant lights of Bangkok.

Take your loved ones to new heights this Valentine’s Day and take in the sights of this exciting city from your very own luxurious suite towering over central Bangkok at the Tower Club at Lebua. Located on the 51st to 59th floor of the State Tower, this deluxe hotel promises a special experience with personalised services, an outdoor pool and rooftop restaurant and bar to take in the spectacular views and make every moment memorable.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

With its historic cobble stoned streets, entwining canals, tandem bicycles and world-class museums, it’s no surprise that Amsterdam is a favourite for romantic city trips for two. Soak up the city’s atmosphere with a stroll through the beautiful Vondelpark, visit the famous flower market and pick a bouquet of traditional tulips for your partner or take a romantic boat cruise on Amsterdam’s famous canals. Booking.com travellers endorsed Amsterdam for fine art museums, friendly people and city walks.

The boutique Hotel Estheréa is found amongst 17th century buildings set along Amsterdam’s oldest canal, the Singel in the centre of Amsterdam and only 350 yards from Dam Square. Benefitting from being set in a quiet area, the romantically decorated rooms offer you the chance to relax and unwind after exploring this beautiful and dreamy city.

Ladera Resort – St. Lucia

The Caribbean island of St. Lucia is like no place on earth, with pearl-dust beaches, turquoise hued waters, luxury resorts, breath-taking waterfalls and a plethora of tropical marine life. For the ultimate romantic gesture dine on the beach with your toes in the powder soft sands watching the spectacular sunsets. Or take a stroll through the diamond botanical garden, home to a mineral bath, nature trail, and the most colourful waterfall in the Caribbean. The diamond botanical garden really is a tropical oasis perfect for exploring this Valentine’s Day. Booking.com travellers endorsed St. Lucia for sandy beaches, wildlife and the scenery.

Stay in a romantic paradise and escape to Ladera Resort in St. Lucia, a haven for lovers and the most magical backdrop for your Valentine’s Day. The open-air suites overlook the crystal waters of the Caribbean Sea and the World Heritage Piton Mountains. Spend time together on Sugar Beach or enjoy local island excursions including hiking, sailing and zip line adventures or indulge in wine tasting, a massage or simply relaxing in your private pool.

Prague, Czech Republic

Boasting wonderful sites and first-class restaurants, Prague is full of culture, history and nightlife. The city’s baroque castle looms over a cityscape that’s straight from a fairy tale with its century-old architecture including Prague Castle, St Vitus Cathedral, National Monument and the Old Town Hall. Booking.com travellers loved Prague’s monuments, history and city walks.

Make your Valentine’s Day one to remember and stay aboard the Boat Hotel Matylda, a floating hotel with a unique ambience and setting. Lying anchor on the stunning Vltava River in the centre of Prague, this boat hotel is a short walk from the Charles Bridge and Charles Square.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is an obvious choice for couples wishing to celebrate Valentine’s Day, with its glorious climate and lively beach culture, there are ample activities to keep everyone entertained. Visit the idyllic Parc de la Ciutadella, take a picnic in this green oasis or a romantic boat ride on the lake. Or perhaps take a day trip to Cadaques for a picturesque harbour town, boutique al fresco dining and old town fishing villages. Booking.com travellers endorsed Barcelona for sightseeing, food and city walks.

Located only 150 yards from Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia Cathedral, the Hispanos 7 Suiza Apartments are a great base to take in all the sights this bustling and beautiful city has to offer. A stay to remember with unusual décor of spectacular vintage cars in the lobby and the elegant atmosphere continues to fully equipped apartments.

Venice, Italy

Climb aboard a gondola, put your arm around your loved one and be bewitched by the enchanting beauty of Venice. With secret passageways and canals that lead to breath-taking views, what could be more romantic than a trip to Italy’s sacred city of Venice, often referred to as the honeymoon city. Booking.com travellers endorsed Venice for food, romance and culture.

Be treated like royalty at the elegant four-star Hotel Ai Reali which offers modern and stylish rooms only a two-minute walk from the Rialto Bridge and at the heartbeat of this fairy-tale city. Featuring antique Venetian-style wooden floors and décor and luxurious marble bathrooms this hotel will be a serene stop-over for your Italian break.

London, United Kingdom

London’s unique allure is impossible to define. From the dizzying wealth of Belgravia to the urban markets of Camden Town, every neighbourhood has its own character. Travellers will be spoilt for choice with romantic things to do for Valentine’s Day; take a stroll through the sunset at Greenwich Park, take a boat ride on Hyde Park’s Serpentine, hire a private capsule on The London Eye to see the twinkling lights of London or book a private theatre box at the West End. Booking.com travellers endorsed London for history, theatre and entertainment.

The Marylebone Hotel is located within the heart of Marylebone Village and minutes away from the famous shops and boutiques of Oxford Street and Bond Street, perfect to lavish your date with gifts or treat yourself. Its striking design and beautiful rooms alongside luxury bedding, fluffy bathrobes and the hotel’s 108 Brasserie bar, spa and wellness area make it the perfect resting spot after a busy day making the most of what the cobbled streets and charm of London have to offer.

Bruges, Belgium

Widely known for its dreamy canals, picturesque cobbled streets and medieval buildings, the city of Bruges is a top choice for couples looking for a romantic city destination. Like a fairy-tale medieval town, Bruges offers market squares, historic churches and horse-drawn carriage rides. The city’s charms lie within its well-preserved historic buildings and trademarks including Michelangelo, Belgian chocolate and the 47 bells. Booking.com travellers have endorsed Bruges for beer, city walks and romance.

Grand Hotel Casselbergh offers historic features and modern facilities in Bruges, a mere 300 yards from the well-known Grote Markt and only a 15-minutes’ walk from the Beguinage and Bruges Railway Station is only a 20-minute walk away. After a busy day enjoying this charming city, you can relax in the unique wellness centre found in the 16th-century cellars and indulge in a couples’ hammam, sauna and Turkish bath.

Maldives

Perhaps considered the most extravagant island escape, the Maldives is the ultimate wish list Valentine’s Day gift. Scattered like jewels across the Indian Ocean the Maldives is home to an abundance of tropical marine life, miles of unearthed pearl-dust beaches and luxurious villas set on stilts with private access to the cerulean waters. Romantic attractions include luxury spa treatments with panoramic vistas of the ocean, sunset boat cruises, out of this world diving and island hopping adventures.

Indulge your valentine and stay at the Coco Bodu Hithi, a true island paradise located in North Male Atoll in the beautiful Maldives. Surrounded by lush vegetation and coconut trees the resort boasts luxurious modern villas with private pools and outdoor decks to take in the pristine surroundings. Choose from one of the seven restaurants or enjoy a relaxing massage at the spa for a truly romantic experience.

President Obama – Kailua Bay, Hawaii 

The Obamas have spent eight consecutive Christmases on a beach-front estate in Kailua Bay. Said to be the next Waikiki, Kailua Bay is becoming increasingly popular among tourists. Its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear water make it the perfect destination for water activities, from paddle boarding over to Mokes Islands to snorkeling on the pristine reef hidden beneath the bay’s blue waters.

Place in Paradise

John F. Kennedy – Sailing

The late John F. Kennedy was known for his love for the ocean, his yacht Manitou was nicknamed the ‘Floating White House’ as a result of the hours he spent on the water. No Kennedy holiday was complete without a trip on the yacht— who could forget the iconic Jackie O lounging on the prow in all her glamour? Escaping from the hustle and bustle of tourist hot spots makes holidaying on the sea the ultimate relaxing getaway.

Caldera Yachting Catamaran

The Bush Family – Kennebunkport, Maine

With George W. Bush racking up over 800 vacation days during his time as President, he certainly knew his way around an itinerary. He split the majority of his holiday time at either his famous Texas ranch or the Bush Compound in Maine where the Bush family has spent more than a century of summers. Maine’s picturesque rocky coastlines and majestic ski slopes make this a destination fit for holidaying year-round.

Captain Jefferds Inn 

Bill and Hillary Clinton – Punta Cana, Dominican Republic 

The Clintons spend their Christmas breaks holidaying in the idyllic Dominican Republic, known for its enviable resort-style holiday experience. With endless opportunity for outdoor activities, Punta Cana is suitable for all ages, from acres of golf courses and water parks to Caribbean beaches lined with coconut trees. The Dominican Republic provides an all-inclusive experience that will satisfy everyone’s needs - including the First Family.

Tortuga Bay 

Franklin D. Roosevelt – Eleuthera, Bahamas

Eleuthera, an Out Island in the Bahamas, was popular with several past Presidents — none more so than Franklin D. Roosevelt. Scattered with small fishing villages, Eleuthera is rich in history and is known for water activities such as snorkeling and diving. Franklin D. Roosevelt took his first ever vacation here after being elected President, spending much of his time fishing, and returning often during his record four terms as leader of the Free World. Eleuthera’s tantalising pink-sand beaches and inviting coral reefs have made this location an increasingly popular tourist destination for those on the hunt for an exotic getaway.

Coral Sands Hotel

Would you prefer a cosy setting, wrapped up warm on a snowy mountain, or to lie in the desert on a balmy night?

Using endorsements from global travellers, our data analysts have worked out the most highly-rated destinations for stargazing.

So, to reconnect with nature and see distant galaxies and constellations against the darkest of skies, head to one of the following destinations.

M’hamid, Morocco

A starting point for visiting the Sahara Desert, M'Hamid is a small oasis town in Morocco in an area long-inhabited by ancient Berber tribes. Morocco’s most extensive sand dunes, the Erg Chigaga, can be reached by (relatively uncomfortable but memorable) camel ride or by jeep. These dunes reach heights of around 60m and seeing them ripple in the wind while bathed in the amber glow of the Saharan sun is enough to move you to tears. There are several smaller dunes near M’Hamid too, which provide just as magical a setting for stargazing, all the more so when accompanied with live, traditional Berber music.

Hotel Kasbah Azalay

Sesriem, Namibia

Seeing as desert climates with next to no precipitation tend to be ideal for clear night sky gazing, Sesriem also features as one of the world’s greatest stargazing spots. It’s famous for its massive red sand dunes, its canyon and the twisted, black, dead trees that cover the surrounding plains (and as striking photo subject matter). But it’s even more glorious to be here at night, enjoying the dazzling display of shooting stars and constellations.

Desert Quiver Camp

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

To visit Lake Tekapo is to witness nature in all her finery; by day, the milky-blue lake, its purple floral shores and surrounding pine forests form a hypnotizing backdrop. And by night, as an International Dark Sky Reserve it has so little light pollution that stargazing is utterly magical. Pitch up a tent to stay a few days and take a tour of the nearby astronomical observatory atop Mount John, with the largest telescope in New Zealand.

Lake Tekapo Lodge

Cabo Polonio, Uruguay

There are no roads leading to this Uruguayan hamlet. Just a tiny collection of shacks constructed on a sliver of sand stretching out into the Atlantic Ocean, this is genuine seclusion. Luckily, building in Cabo has been restricted in recent years to save it from turning into a typical South American resort. Join the resident hippies for a session of sleeping under the stars and you’ll soon grow so attached it’ll be nigh impossible to leave.

Olga Veigas y Otros

Wadi Rum, Jordan

The barren, desert wilderness of Wadi Rum is a life-affirming place. The horizon is dotted with craggy canyons and orange sand, and watching the stars from this lunar-like landscape feels somewhat surreal. Camping with the Bedouin in isolated sites and enjoying an incredibly vivid view of our Milky Way will stun you into awed silence.

Wadi Rum Night Luxury Camp

Sao Domingos Mine, Portugal

Though man-made, this deserted mine in Portugal is a phenomenal place to star gaze. Its interesting history dates back to the Roman era, and there’s a museum, an English cemetery and many old mine buildings dotted around. This is a good choice for those looking for a quirky but stunning place to lie back and enjoy a celestial show.

Alentejo Star Hotel - Sao Domingos / Mertola - Duna Parque Group

New York, N.Y. – 15 December 2014 – New Year’s Eve is one of the busiest times of year for online travel agent Booking.com - the world leader in booking accommodation – who this year want to celebrate the unique and wonderful ways global travellers celebrate the big 11:59pm moment.

Booking.com has searched its extensive list of accommodations around the globe to find one stand out property in each of the world’s 24 time zones. By visiting www.booking.com/NYE, travellers will be able to view the spectacular range of New Year’s Eve properties and will be in with a chance to win a trip for two to their chosen destination for New Year’s Eve 2015. All they need to do is share their favourite accommodation through the website and tell us why they would want to spend their dream 11:59pm moment at that property. Whether it’s in Greenland marvelling at the Aurora natural light display or being the first people on earth to see the New Year sunrise in Paihia while staying at New Zealand’s Chalet Romantica, Booking.com has an accommodation and an amazing experience for everyone.

Midnight revellers hoping to see one of the world’s costliest New Year’s Eve celebrations should head to Park Hyatt Sydney, Australia, which boasts the best view of one of the world’s most expensive public displays as AUS $7,000,000 worth of fireworks are set off in celebration. Among the elaborate places to spend New Year’s Eve is The Alvear Palace Hotel, Buenos Aires where you can indulge in the European palace parties of the past at a special gala evening.

In North America, Niagara Falls not only offers one of the most spectacular show’s nature has to offer, but New Year’s Eve sees thousands of people head to the falls for one of the most spectacular laser light shows around the globe. In Alaska, visit Hotel Alyeska for the perfect place to witness the famous Torchlight Parade which sees a multitude of skiers and snowboarders take to the slopes to create a stunning visual effect.

Todd Dunlap, Booking.com Managing Director of North America, is proud that customers will always find a property to suit them: “Booking.com takes pride in offering a huge variety of listings from the weird and wonderful to traditional accommodation. Whether you’re looking for a 5-star hotel, an igloo or a family apartment for New Year’s Eve, Booking.com has what you’re looking for. With more than 25 different varieties and over 560,000 properties in 200+ countries and territories, Booking.com has the best accommodation offerings in the world, making it the perfect complement for the savvy American traveller.”

www.booking.com/NYE

• Week-long ‘Hogmanay’ jubilations: at Edinburgh’s five-star Waldorf Astoria Hotel
• Northern lights: See the most Christmassy place on earth and most spectacular natural light show at Santa Claus Holiday Village, Finland
• Feliz año nuevo: Light up the night with firecrackers at Zocalo Central, Mexico City
• Welcome the sun: Be the first to see the New Year sun from New Zealand’s Marina View Apartments

LONDON – 15 December 2014 – New Year’s Eve is one of the busiest times of year for online travel agent Booking.com - the world leader in booking accommodation – who this year want to celebrate the unique and wonderful ways global travellers celebrate the big 11:59pm moment.

Booking.com has searched its extensive list of accommodations around the globe to find one stand-out property in each of the world’s 24 time zones. By visiting www.booking.com/NYE, travellers will be able to view the spectacular range of New Year’s Eve properties and will be in with a chance to win a trip for two to their chosen destination for New Year’s Eve 2015. All they need to do is share their favourite accommodation through the website and tell us why they would want to spend their 11:59pm moment at that property. Whether it’s in Greenland marvelling at the Aurora natural light display or being among the first people on earth to see the New Year sunrise in Gisborne while staying at New Zealand’s Marina View Apartments, Booking.com has an accommodation and an amazing experience for everyone.

MIDNIGHT DELIGHT

Midnight revellers hoping to see one of the world’s costliest New Year’s Eve fireworks celebrations should head to Park Hyatt Sydney, Australia, which boasts the best view of one of the world’s most expensive public displays as AUS $7,000,000 worth of fireworks are set off in celebration. Among the elaborate places to spend New Year’s Eve is The Alvear Palace Hotel, Buenos Aires where you can indulge in the European palace parties of the past at a special gala evening.

In North America, Niagara Falls not only offers one of the most spectacular shows nature has to offer, but New Year’s Eve see thousands of people head to the falls for one of the most spectacular laser light shows around the globe. In Alaska, visit Hotel Alyeska for the perfect place to witness the famous Torchlight Parade which sees a multitude of skiers and snowboarders take to the slopes to create a stunning visual effect.

Domestic Twixmas dash

With groups of friends, families and singletons increasingly seeking out last-minute escapes Booking.com has observed a trend spike in Brits keen to holiday during in the Twixmas period (the stretch between Christmas and New Year). Awesome firework displays around the London Eye and week-long Hogmanay jubilations secure London and Edinburgh in the Top three Twixmas domestic dash hotspots two years in a row (2013 to 2014). However Liverpool beats Manchester to the top three domestic New Year’s Eve hubs to head for this year.

Jason Grist, UK Area Manager for Booking.com, is proud that customers will always find a property to suit them: “Booking.com takes pride in offering a huge spectrum of listings for New Year’s Eve and the whole year round. Whether it’s a 5 star hotel, an igloo or a family apartment you’re after for New Year’s Eve, Booking.com has what you’re looking for. With more than 25 different varieties and over 560,000 properties in 209 countries, Booking.com has the best accommodation offering in the world, making it the perfect complement for the savvy British traveller”.

www.booking.com/NYE