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Top destinations Aussies are flocking to right now as 'Asian summer' takes over

Sarah Swain
Sarah Swain

The traditional months where Aussies and much of the rest of the world converge on Europe are nearing.

But amid the cost of living crisis and war in the Middle East, travellers are looking for alternatives.

And data proves a new hotspot has officially taken over - Asia.

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Bali

Topping the list was the buzzing resort of Seminyak in Bali. Getty

Dubbed the 'Asia Summer' by booking.com bosses, holidaymakers are flocking to the region.

Known for its affordability, luscious food and cheap, relatively short flights, it's no wonder Aussies are keen to holiday there instead.

In fact 22 out of the top 30 destinations Australians are searching for in July are in the Asia Pacific, the data showed.

READ MORE: These are the easiest cities to visit across Europe

Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi, Vietnam remains popular with Aussies. Getty

Vietnamese hotspots saw the biggest rise in popularity, with Hanoi, Danang, and Hoi An recording the strongest year-on-year growth.

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Topping the list was perpetual favourite Seminyak in Bali.

Ever popular Queenstown in New Zealand snuck into the second spot.

Singapore also ranked highly.

With a range of hotels and theme parks and close to tropical islands, it's a surprisingly family-friendly destination.

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Golden Gai

Tokyo brings together tradition and modernity, comparable to cities like London or Berlin, but at a cheaper price tag. Getty

And while it might not quite have the ancient history of Europe you can get similar vibes in some Asian spots.

Experts reckon Vietnamese capital Hanoi is a good switch for Rome because of the history and culture.

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Popular town Hoi An, with its lantern-adorned river, also offers "Venice-like charm."

As for those who yearn to sample Mykonos' beach-club scene, forget Greece and head to Seminyak, which offers similar party opportunities.

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Meanwhile, Tokyo brings together tradition and modernity, comparable to cities like London or Berlin, but much closer.

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Singapore

Singapore also ranked highly on the new list. Getty

Seoul meanwhile, blends urban energy with deep cultural heritage, comparable to cities like Paris or Milan

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The site's Travel and Sustainability Report last year found 36 per cent of travellers are seeking alternatives to traditional hotspots.

If you can't make it to Europe, or overseas at all, there are places you can holiday in Australia which have a similar feel.

A short ferry ride from Perth, Rottnest's pristine beaches have to be seen to be believed.

The car-free island has 63 beaches and coves, and gives that relaxed Greek Island feel that you want when you're on holiday.

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The clear water of Rottnest Island, near Perth, Western Australia."

The clear water of Rottnest Island, near Perth, Western Australia." Getty

Orange in NSW has the same high-altitude, cool-climate wine of central Italy, you just don't need a 20-hour flight to get there.

And everyone who's been to Southern Italy knows that they have the country's best beaches - and the same can be said for Esperance in Western Australia.

Vietnam is also proving popular at another time of year too.

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It was the number one destination for Australians taking international holidays over the peak Christmas and New Year period, according to multiple travel companies.

READ MORE: This relaxed Queensland destination offers a budget-friendly alternative to Cairns

Top International Destination Searches

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  1. Seminyak, Bali
  2. Queenstown, New Zealand
  3. Tokyo, Japan
  4. Sanur, Bali
  5. Singapore, Singapore
  6. Legian, Bali
  7. London, UK
  8. Paris, France
  9. Nusa Dua, Bali
  10. Ubud, Bali

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