With 2020 just around the corner, we’ve dug through our records for 2019 (with some help from our friends at Expedia) to find out which destinations are seeing the most growth. All the destinations below have seen anywhere from 62% to over 180% growth compared to 2018!
5. Cook Islands
If you’re in need of a break to get your dose of “Vitamin Sea”, the Cook Islands have got you covered! The Cook Islands are the place to unwind on a pristine white sandy beach and watch the waves roll in.
Best time to travel: Anytime!
4. Barcelona
History, architecture, art and culture buffs will spend hours wandering Barcelona – the history of the city is everywhere. Foodies will also fall in love with the city, thanks to the immense number of restaurants and cafes.
Best time to travel: May to October (but July-August will be HOT and it’s peak tourist season)
3. Bali
Hugely popular already with Kiwi and Aussie tourists, Bali is still growing in popularity! It’s never been so easy to get to Bali with a huge range of airlines flying from Auckland to Denpasar. If you’re an ‘active relaxer’, You can surf, snorkel or shop your way around and for those who like to take it easy, you have beaches and spas galore!
Best Time to Travel: May-July (Check your dates carefully if you plan to travel during March/April, as Nyepi, the Balinese ‘Day of Silence’ falls within this time).
2. Chicago, USA
Now that Air New Zealand has been flying direct to Chicago for a little over a year, it’s no surprise we’re seeing Chicago move up the popularity ratings. The Magnificent Mile is a shoppers haven, there are restaurants galore for the foodies and sports fans will find plenty of choice with Baseball, Basketball, Football, Ice Hockey and Soccer on offer depending on the season.
Best time to travel: Chicago is known for sweltering summers and bitterly cold winters, so Autumn (October-December) is your best bet weather-wise.
1. Japan
While the rugby didn’t go as well as we’d hoped, Japan has really captured Kiwi’s imagination as a travel destination! Japan is the land where modern innovation coexists with ancient tradition and it’s all worth exploring! If you get the opportunity, be sure to add Hiroshima to your itinerary – it’s a must for the historical aspect and a deeply moving experience.
Best time to travel: October – November or April for the Cherry Blossoms (expect high-season surcharges for during the Cherry Blossom festival). N.B. During the end of July through to mid-August, the 2020 Olympics will be held in Tokyo.
Also growing Brisbane & Singapore
This content is made possible thanks to the support of Expedia TAAP.
