New data from Luxury Escapes has revealed the top eight countries Australians are keen to visit in 2023, with a focus on wellness, food, and immersive experiences shaping their travel choices.
According to the Travel Trends 2023 report by Luxury Escapes, nine out of 10 Australians are planning to travel this year, either domestically or internationally, with bucket list holidays and immersive tourism experiences topping their priority list.
Food is a major motivator for Australians, with 64 per cent of respondents indicating a desire to travel for culinary experiences, such as visiting culinary hotspots and sampling local delicacies in cities or regions, both within Australia and internationally.
Wellness tourism is also on the rise, with 42 per cent of respondents indicating a desire to travel for holistic purposes, such as visiting wellness sanctuaries, retreats or spa centres. Sustainability is also a top consideration for Australian travellers, with almost 30 per cent expressing an interest in sustainable travel practices.
Interestingly, despite the uncertain state of the economy, price is not a deterrent for Australians when it comes to travel plans in 2023. More than half of the respondents plan to spend more money on international travel this year compared to 2022.
In addition, more than half of the surveyed Australians expressed a desire to visit a country to which they have not been. The top eight countries that Australians want to visit in 2023, as per the report, are:
Indonesia
While Bali was the most searched travel destination for Australians last year, the lesser-known Indonesian island of Sumba is gaining attention for its unspoilt beauty, with palm-fringed beaches and wild horses roaming free.
Thailand
From beachside wellness retreats to highland hotels, Thailand is an excellent destination for wellness.
There are abundant offerings of traditional Thai massage, spa and wellness retreats, natural healing remedies, mindfulness and meditation classes, yoga and healthy food options to nourish the body and soul.
New Zealand
Known for its breathtaking scenery, New Zealand is a popular destination for Australians, with its alpine vistas, mirror-like lakes, vineyards, and stunning beaches. Perhaps unsurprisingly, 40 per cent of New Zealand’s international air arrivals come from Australia.
United Kingdom
Delving into the rich and dramatic history of Britain is a delight for travellers who holiday there. With more than 4000 castles, including around 800 medieval examples, visitors can get vivid glimpses into the country’s past by touring these heritage sites.
Wales, in particular, boasts the highest concentration of castles per square kilometre in Europe, along with picturesque towns, breathtaking coastal stretches, and stunning countryside to discover.
Italy
Italy is a dream destination with its rich history, exquisite cuisine, beautiful art and architecture, breathtaking landscapes and warm hospitality. From the iconic cities of Rome, Florence, and Venice to the picturesque countryside of Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast, Italy offers a diverse range of attractions. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, indulge in world-class cuisine and wines, relax in charming coastal towns and enjoy the Dolce Vita lifestyle.
Japan
Japan is a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation, offering visitors a captivating cultural experience. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, rich history, and unique customs, Japan is a must-visit destination.
Plus, under the assumption of a massive injection of Olympic Games-fuelled revenue in 2020, hoteliers looked to unveil brand-new resorts and refreshed well-loved establishments. Though these properties lay empty for much longer than expected, the country’s recently lifted travel restrictions mean visitors can finally make up for lost time.
Fiji
With more than 330 islands in its archipelago, it’s no wonder that Fiji has become synonymous with barefoot luxury.
Fiji is a tropical paradise renowned for its pristine white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and warm hospitality of the Fijian people.
Vietnam
From bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the serene beauty of Halong Bay and the lush rice terraces of Sapa, Vietnam offers a diverse array of experiences.
Singapore
With iconic landmarks such as Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay, Singapore offers a blend of modernity and tradition. The city’s clean streets, efficient public transportation and world-class attractions make it a convenient and hassle-free destination to explore.
Where would you most like to go this year? Let us know in the comments section below.
Also read: Travel trends to watch out for in 2023
