This year’s travel resurgence, while remarkable, has created an atmosphere of chaos and overcommercialization in some of the world’s biggest hotspots.
That’s why travelers looking for a more laid-back experience while still getting to enjoy classic touristy attractions are turning their eyes away from the likes of Paris, London, Bangkok, and Dubai.
Recently released data from Airbnb just shed some light on this year’s biggest holiday trends.
Based on searches on the platform from January 1st, 2023 to September 15th, 2023, these were the destinations that topped the list:
Osaka, Japan
Lovingly nicknamed “Japan’s Kitchen,” Osaka has long been celebrated as a haven for travelers looking to enjoy the culinary journey of a lifetime.
Between the street food stalls in Dotonbori to the Michelin-starred restaurants in Kitashinchi, one thing’s for sure – you’ll never go hungry while in the city.
Though there’s no doubt that any dish you’ll try in Osaka will leave a lasting impression, takoyaki and okonomiyaki, in particular, are not to be missed.
Beyond its culinary wonders, the Japanese city also attracts travelers through its perfect blend of a long, captivating history and a modern, cosmopolitan atmosphere.
A 10-minute car ride separates Osaka Castle, the city’s most iconic landmark which offers a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past, and Umeda Sky Building, a modern architectural wonder that provides some of the best views across all of Osaka.
Hong Kong
Hong Kong has long been the textbook definition of a bustling metropolis, yet its skyline still continues to leave travelers who’ve never seen it before a little out of breath.
The juxtaposition of towering skyscrapers against the backdrop of lush hills and a glistening harbor creates a feast for the senses that’s nothing short of jaw-dropping.
However, for the best views of the city, you’ll have to wait until 8:10 P.M.
That’s when the Symphony of Lights, a nightly multimedia show, transforms the skyline into a stunning display of colors, solidifying Hong Kong’s reputation as a city that never sleeps.
Québec City, Canada
If taking an ~8,000-mile (12,875 km) flight for your next holiday seems like overkill, you can always keep travel intracontinental.
Québec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Canada’s crown jewels, and the perfect place to visit this time of year.
The cobblestone streets, charming boutiques, and adorned architecture of Old Québec will take you back right to the 17th century, while the iconic Château Frontenac, the world’s most photographed hotel, offers some truly breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River.
While Québec is the type of destination that can be enjoyed year-round, winter brings a special type of charm to the city’s overall allure.
With an average yearly snowfall of almost 10 feet (a little over 3 meters), most of which can be attributed to the months between December and February, the city transforms into a magical winter wonderland complete with ice sculptures, dog sledding, and abundant skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
Taipei, Taiwan
Once a land of conflict, the capital of Taiwan has rapidly transformed into a technological powerhouse that leaves visitors in awe.
The iconic Taipei 101, which held the title of the world’s tallest building up until 2007, stands as a symbol of the city’s progress and innovation and is a must-see for everyone lucky enough to make it to the Taiwanese capital.
The same can be said of the Xinyi District, which is not only a testament to the city’s tech-driven evolution but also the center of Taiwan’s world-famous nightlife.
Other attractions to add to your itinerary include the National Palace Museum, Shilin Night Market, and the Yangmingshan National Park.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
The fifth most searched-for destination on Airbnb’s website is Rio de Janeiro, one of Brazil’s most iconic cities, and the embodiment of the country’s energy and vibrancy.
It goes without saying that a trip to Rio wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Christ the Redeemer statue – between it and Sugarloaf Mountain, you’ll be spoiled with some of Brazil’s most panoramic views.
However, the event that probably defines Rio de Janeiro the most is the world-class carnival that takes place every year before Lent.
Between its samba parades, vibrant costumes, and infectious music, the event transforms the city into a pulsating spectacle of joy and rhythm that can’t be replicated anywhere else on Earth.
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