From nocturnal tourism, to finding hidden gems: Here's where Aussies are travelling in 2025
From stargazing to thrill-seeking or exploring cultural connections, the travel experiences we crave and the destinations we look to are always evolving.
According to Booking.com's annual Travel Predictions research, in 2025, Australian travellers will be re-thinking how they travel.
They'll be defying convention to discover less crowded destinations (60 per cent), embark on luxurious longevity retreats (51 per cent) or opt for more nocturnal activities to beat rising temperatures (46 per cent).
Here are the top trending destinations for this year...
Sanya, China
Situated on Hainan Island, China's southernmost province, the city of Sanya boasts soft sandy beaches and clear waters nestled alongside mountainous landscapes.
Known as 'China's Hawaii', the city offers 20 kilometres of coastline and a year-round warm climate with 2,500 hours of sunlight.
It's natural wonders and cultural spectacles are not to be missed, from Yanoda Rainforest Tropical Park, Nanshan Daxiaodongtian's caves and Sanya Paddy Field National Park to the captivating Sanya Romance Park stage plays.
With an abundance of hot springs, visitors can immerse themselves in Sanya's geothermal treasures, including Nantian Hot Springs, Yalong Bay and Wuzhizhou Island.
Travellers can wake up to the sound of lapping waves at The Ritz-Carlton Sanya, Yalong Bay.
With sophisticated rooms and suites, the majority of which offer views of the breathtaking South China Sea, the hotel includes five outdoor pools, two tennis courts, eight upscale dining options, plus one of the largest spas in the region.
Trieste, Italy
Once considered one of the world's most important ports, Trieste in northeastern Italy offers visitors 46 kilometres of coastline set against a mix of grassland, forest and rocky landscapes.
Positioned on a narrow strip of land between the Adriatic Sea and Slovenia, the culture is a unique blend of Italian, Slovenian and Austrian influences - reflected in the architecture and historic attractions.
Visitors to this deep water port are encouraged to check out Piazza Unità d'Italia, Grotta Gigante and Miramare Castle to fully experience the city's stunning surroundings and culture or take an unforgettable tour around the only preserved cave castle in Europe, Postojna Cave & Predjama Castle.
There is plenty for the active traveller too with multiple leisurely hiking trails overlooking the sprawling coastline.
Val Rosanda, a valley located on the Italian and Slovenian border, makes for a challenging trek, while Sistiana Bay, approximately a 20-minute drive to the west of Trieste, is a picturesque place to enjoy an evening stroll in the shadow of the surrounding mountains.
João Pessoa, Brazil
On the easternmost point in South America lies João Pessoa, known as the 'Sun Gate'.
Admired as one of the greenest locations in the world, travellers can admire the city's natural beauty by visiting Jardim Botânico and Parque Zoobotânico Arruda Câmara, while those looking for a more cultural day out can visit the historic Centro Historico De Joao Pessoa and the city's many beautiful churches, including Igreja São Francisco.
To unwind, Picãozinho, Seixas and Caribessa are popular pools just off the coast, while Red Sand Island (Ilha de Areia Vermelha) and Alligator Beach (Praia do Jacaré) are unmissable spots to soak up the sun.
Travellers can also check out Tambaú Market to learn about local hand craftsmanship including embroidery, pottery making and crochet techniques.
Alternatively, visitors can enjoy a Cultural Tour of the Forró Catamaran on the Paraíba River feasting on traditional food, learning the art of June Square dancing while enjoying the Brazilian musical genre of forró.
Tromsø, Norway
Situated 350 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is northern Norway's largest city and hailed as one of the top destinations to experience both the Northern Lights and the midnight sun phenomenon - just not during the same time of year.
Home to an array of wildlife, picturesque landscapes and majestic fjords, you'll get a unique perspective on the Norwegian wilderness with this opportunity to Train Alaskan Husky Puppies in Tromsø.
Back in the city, Tromsø is known for its historical wooden dwellings and has one of the country's most important concentrations of Empire houses, with the first dating back to 1789.
For a spot of rejuvenation, check out Pust, a floating sauna in the heart of the Tromsø harbour overlooking the Arctic Cathedral.
Willemstad, Curaçao
Just off the coast of Venezuela lies Curaçao, a pristine island filled with dramatic cliffs, subtle bays and epic views of the Caribbean Sea.
Its vibrant capital, Willemstad, is characterised by its colonial buildings painted in pastel colours, lively markets and beach coves.
For the ideal day, start by feasting on Willemstad's signature cuisine, such as red snapper with polenta, at Plasa Bieu, the street food market, followed by a self-guided tour admiring the town's mesmerising street art, or a climb up Rif Fort to take in the view.
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