Thursday, October 17, 2024

Skyscanner’s top trending destinations for Canadians in 2025

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Get ready to pack your bags

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Canadians are an adventurous bunch when it comes to travel. Ever since pandemic restrictions began loosening, there’s been even more reason for us to pack our bags to new and exciting destinations. 

According to Statistics Canada, air passenger traffic in Canada soared to nearly 93 per cent of the 2019 pre-COVID-19 pandemic level 2023. The number of passengers at Canadian airports also grew almost 27 per cent year-over-year to a total of 150.7 million.

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With travel continuing to explode in popularity into the new year, Skyscanner has revealed its report on the top Canadian travel trends for 2025

The report highlights themes that are shaping travel (think astrological adventures, cowboy culture and gaming to name a few) as well as a list of the top ten destinations that have seen a major increase in search volume in 2024. 

See the full list below to get inspired for your next big adventure. 

1. Grand Turk Island, Turks and Caicos, +713 per cent search increase

The capital city of Turks and Caicos may just become the hottest Caribbean destination for Canadians in 2025. With a whopping 713 per cent increase in searches, those looking for sandy beaches and crystal clear waters will want to add Grand Turk Island to their bucket list.

2. Cusco, Peru, +163 per cent search increase

We can confirm that Peru is a trending travel destination – we’ll be covering our experience on the Salkantay Trek that takes travellers through Machu Pichu and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cusco. 

3. Krabi, Thailand, +158 per cent search increase

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For those seeking a destination that’s off the beaten path, Thailand’s province of Krabi is currently trending. With its sheer limestone cliffs, dense mangrove forests, and more than a hundred offshore islands, it’s the perfect spot for adventurous travellers.

4. Madeira, Portugal, +153 per cent search increase

The island of Madeira is Portugal’s next must-visit location. Situated off the northwest coast of Africa, it offers a rugged volcanic landscape, mountains and an abundance of flowers and lush vegetation that make for breathtaking hikes. 

5. Okinawa, Japan, +145 per cent search increase

As the southernmost islands of Japan, Okinawa is best known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs and historical sites. The islands are a haven for divers and snorkelers, boasting more than 200 of the world’s coral species found within its reefs.

6. Tromsø, Norway, +127 per cent search increase

As more travellers seek out celestial phenomena, Tromsø, Norway delivers on stunning natural wonders. Located within the Arctic Circle, it’s a hotspot for viewing the Northern Lights and offers unique winter activities like dog sledding and polar nights – total darkness from Nov. 27 until Jan. 15. 

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7. Marrakesh, Morocco, +123 per cent search increase

On the rise thanks to its affordability, historic leather markets and arts scene, Marrakesh offers a mix of the old and new in one. You’ll find stunning gardens, temples and museums, as well as world-class spas and culinary delights.

8. Florence, Italy, +115 per cent search increase

Lovers of arts and culture, take notes. As the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, Florence is home to 72 museums that house many of the world’s most famous artworks, including Michelangelo and Donatello’s statues of David.

9. San Antonio, U.S., +99 per cent search increase

With its scenic River Walk and historic site of The Alamo, San Antonio, Texas is a trending spot for Canadian explorers. Head to the city in October and November to take part in the biggest Día de los Muertos celebrations in the U.S. or head outside the city any time of year for a taste of ranch living. 

10. Colorado Springs, USA: +94 per cent search increase

Though Colorado is best known for its pristine ski hills, there’s more to the state than just winter sports. The growing culinary, arts and nightlife scene in Colorado Springs makes this mountain city a destination worth exploring.

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kmendonca@postmedia.com 

instagram.com/kate.mendonca

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