From blind booking to sustainable nature accommodation: what does your holiday look like?
The Christmas tree is now back on the street, the frying fat for the oliebollen has been cleaned up, and the last remnants of champagne have now been poured at the Vrijmibo. But to avoid getting into the gray January rut, we are looking forward to our upcoming holidays. Because a sweet trip here or there should be possible, right? All-in-one travel platform Booking.com has delved into the figures and came up with some striking travel predictions for the coming year.
1. Blindly on an adventure
While this previously seemed reserved for the most adventurous among us, now more and more people are interested in a surprise trip. For example, as many as 40% of Dutch travelers would like to be surprised, with even the destination up to the point of arrival being a surprise.
After a few years of staying indoors, we are clearly ready for adventure, because no fewer than 46% of respondents indicate that they want to step out of their comfort zone during their holiday.
2. Know yourself
A holiday to a distant destination is of course also the way to discover other sides of yourself (or your loved ones). Who knows how flexible your hips will turn out if you exchange the dance floor of your local pub for a beach club! About 47% of Dutch travelers indicate that they really enjoy the anonymity that a trip brings.
An honest 38% even say that they carry quite a bit of main character energy with them on holiday. Shameless enjoyment, that’s how it goes, nun?
3. Cool and immerse
Now that temperatures in the Netherlands are breaking heat records year after year, you might think that we are en masse looking to cool off during our days off. But that’s not too bad: only 31% indicate that looking for refreshment is a factor when booking a trip. We do like to take a dip: an impressive 63% of Dutch travelers say that they immediately feel more relaxed near the water.
4. Foodies
The age-old saying ‘what the farmer doesn’t know, he doesn’t like’? Nowadays, that is of no use to Dutch travelers. No! More than 67% of respondents indicate that they would like to discover the traditional taste of the original local cuisine during their holiday this year.
5. (Almost) everything is love
Have you also thoroughly enjoyed programs such as B&B Vol Liefde in recent months? You’re not the only one! Booking.com says that we are clearly inspired by shows where love is sought across the border.
Almost 24% of single Dutch travelers see value in making time to search for the right one during their holiday. Hilariously enough, it turns out that with enough love in the house, we actually need some alone time. For example, no fewer than 46% of Dutch travelers with children say that they are looking forward to a solo trip in 2024, away from offspring and partner. Ha!
6. Budget travel
We love strolling in luxury – but if we can do it all for an affordable price tag, so much the better. With those few saved bucks you can still buy a nice dress or nice pair of pumps.
A good 43% of respondents indicate that in 2024 they will look for locations where costs are lower than in our own little country, and 35% indicated that traveling close to home can also be extra attractive to keep costs low. to hold. Booking a trip via Booking.com becomes extra attractive, as you can book your flight, accommodation and any attractions in one go. This way you can pay extra attention to your travel budget.
7. Just act sustainably
And finally, we are increasingly enjoying sustainable eco holidays. While this may have previously evoked images of goat wool socks experiences, now it is not so bad.
The Roots Tree House in Ungasan, Indonesia.
The Santani Wellness Kandy in Sri Lanka.
At Booking.com you will find more and more sustainable accommodations, which are also becoming increasingly popular among travelers. A nice 36% consciously look for such a sustainable location to stay.
Top 10
If you could use some extra inspiration before booking a trip, we also list the top 10 trending travel destinations for you. This is based on all bookings on Booking.com between August 1, 2022 and July 31, 2023. And that top 10 also includes a bit of local pride, as it turns out!
- Valkenburg, Netherlands
- Beppu, Japan
- Vlorë, Albania
- Merida, Mexico
- Portland, Oregon, United States
- Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Chemnitz, Germany
- Rotorua, New Zealand
- Panglao, Philippines
- Cairns, Australia
You read that right: Limburg’s Valkenburg is one of the ten trending travel destinations in the world. We understand why!
From picturesque streets to historic castle ruins – and of course the unique Christmas market in the Velvet Cave (it’s never too early for Christmas plans, right?) there is plenty to see and do in Valkenburg.
We will plan our next trip with a fresh dose of inspiration!
Image: Booking.com, Adobe Stock
