Winter holiday travel to increase by over a third
Travel over the holiday period will increase by 34 per cent in 2021 compared to 2020, according to Allianz Partners USA's Top 10 Holiday Destinations survey
After reviewing four million itineraries for roundtrip flights departing from US airports beginning on 18 December and returning by 30 December, the travel insurance and assistance company found that 87 per cent of the itineraries reviewed are for domestic travel, and only 13 per cent are for international travel.
With fewer travel restrictions and higher availability of the Covid-19 vaccine, Americans are putting their travel plans in motion this holiday season. New York made its return as the favoured destination after slipping out of the top 10 last year, followed by Seattle, which was 2020’s top holiday destination. Americans are also planning trips to warm-weather destinations including Orlando, Los Angeles and Phoenix. The only New England contender Boston follows, and Atlanta, Las Vega, Salt Lake City and Dallas-Fort Worth round out the top 10 list for domestic holiday travels.
Returning to familiar destinations
“Americans are eager to travel again and one trend we’ve seen is travellers returning to the places they love, whether that’s a cosmopolitan Christmas in New York City or basking in the sun on the beautiful beaches of Mexico,” said Daniel Durazo, Director of marketing and communications for Allianz Partners USA.
Travellers seeking an international holiday getaway are putting three destinations in Mexico on their holiday wish lists. Cancun came out on top this year, followed by San Jose Del Cabo and Puerto Vallarta. With eight Caribbean destinations featured in the top 10 international ranking, it’s fair to say Americans are looking for a winter escape and a warmer change of scenery this year.
A recent TripIt from Concur survey showed a similar pattern, suggesting 63 per cent of respondents plan to travel in the next three months, suggesting a busy holiday travel season ahead.