|
Rank |
Destination |
Country |
Yearly growth in luxury travel searches (%) |
|
1 |
Abu Dhabi |
United Arab Emirates |
421% |
|
2 |
Acapulco |
Mexico |
253% |
|
3 |
Punta del Este |
Uruguay |
236% |
|
4 |
Macau |
Macau SAR |
87% |
|
5 |
Da Nang |
Vietnam |
83% |
|
6 |
Tallinn |
Estonia |
39% |
|
7 |
Aswan |
Egypt |
35% |
|
8 |
Tokyo |
Japan |
34% |
|
9 |
Banff |
Canada |
33% |
|
10 |
Chengdu |
China |
32% |
The findings indicate a clear divergence between destinations attracting
luxury-focused travellers and those appealing to budget-conscious visitors,
both internationally and within the United States.
Abu
Dhabi leads global luxury
travel searches for 2026, recording a 421% year-on-year increase. The
destination’s appeal is linked to its cultural attractions, large-scale events,
and expanding portfolio of high-end hospitality experiences.
Acapulco ranks second for luxury travel searches, with interest rising by
253% compared with the previous year. The destination benefits from its
established resort infrastructure and proximity to Mexico City, particularly in
the context of travel linked to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Punta del Este completes the top three luxury destinations, combining beach
tourism with upscale dining and leisure offerings, which have contributed to
increased search activity among U.S. travellers.
|
Rank |
Destination |
Country |
Yearly growth
in budget travel searches (%) |
|
1 |
Crete |
Greece |
180% |
|
2 |
Kathmandu |
Nepal |
174% |
|
3 |
Cappadocia |
Turkey |
169% |
|
4 |
Riga |
Latvia |
160% |
|
5 |
Agra |
India |
141% |
|
6 |
Belgrade |
Serbia |
127% |
|
7 |
Phnom Penh |
Cambodia |
126% |
|
8 |
Rotterdam |
Netherlands |
122% |
|
9 |
Hong Kong |
Hong Kong SAR |
122% |
|
10 |
Baku |
Azerbaijan |
106% |
In the budget travel category, Crete recorded the highest growth in search interest, with a 179% year-on-year increase. Greece’s largest island is attracting attention for its combination of coastal landscapes, local cuisine, and comparatively lower costs than other Greek island destinations.
Kathmandu ranked second for budget travel searches, driven by interest from
adventure travellers seeking access to trekking routes and lower-cost
accommodation and dining options.
Cappadocia placed third, with budget travel searches increasing by nearly
170%. Interest has been supported by the region’s distinctive landscapes,
cultural sites, and favourable exchange conditions for U.S. visitors.
On the domestic front, Santa Barbara emerged as the leading destination for
budget travel inspiration within the United States, with searches rising by
218% year-on-year.
The analysis reflects how U.S. travellers are shaping their 2026 travel
plans across both premium and value-driven segments, based on evolving
destination appeal and affordability considerations.
Tags: Abu Dhabi Crete Travel Guard