2025 is here, making it an opportune time to examine the evolution of new and emerging travel trends. The new year heralds a shift in traveler preferences, with tourists steering away from traditional hotspots toward lesser-known locales, which a recent Expedia report aptly refers to as "detour destinations".
These emerging gems offer an antidote to overcrowded landmarks and mass tourism, providing travelers with unique and authentic experiences. As overtourism becomes increasingly problematic, travelers are seeking out destinations that promise not only novelty but also a sense of authenticity, complete with connections to local culture and the environment.
Expedia’s report, titled “Unpack ’25: The Trends in Travel” reveals that an astonishing 63 percent of travelers are eager to include a detour destination in their upcoming trips. These spots are often located near popular cities or attractions, offering comparable experiences with fewer crowds and, in many cases, at a lower cost. According to Expedia, this trend is reshaping how people plan their journeys, turning previously overlooked places into sought-after destinations.
Detour Destinations on the Rise
Behind the rise of detour destinations is a growing awareness of the environmental and social impacts of mass tourism. Overcrowded sites like Paris, Milan and Cancun are facing increased pressure, both from the sheer number of visitors, and the strain it puts on local infrastructure and ecosystems. Moreover, travelers are becoming more mindful of their footprint and are turning to alternatives that align with more sustainable travel practices.
The escalating costs of travel in traditional hotspots have also made detour destinations even more appealing. These substitutive locations provide travelers with budget-friendly options while still delivering memorable experiences. For instance, in Mexico, Cozumel has emerged as an alternative to Cancun, offering world-class scuba diving and a more tranquil vibe. Similarly, Waikato in New Zealand is gaining recognition for its stunning natural landscapes, offering a quieter option compared to bustling Auckland.
Hidden Gems Gaining Popularity
Expedia’s list of trending detour destinations showcases a diverse range of options across the globe. In Europe, Reims, France, invites visitors to explore its rich history and champagne heritage, presenting an enticing alternative to Paris. Brescia, Italy, charms travelers with its blend of Roman ruins and Renaissance architecture, serving as a quieter counterpart to Milan.
In Asia, Fukuoka, Japan, combines modern city life with traditional Japanese culture, offering a less hectic experience than Tokyo. In Thailand, Krabi, with its idyllic beaches and limestone cliffs, is becoming a serene alternative to Phuket. Closer to home, Santa Barbara, California, delivers a relaxed coastal experience compared to Los Angeles, while Canmore in Alberta, Canada, provides breathtaking mountain vistas without the crowds of nearby Calgary.
2025’s Trending Detour Destinations
For traveler inspiration, Expedia compiled a list of the top 10 most popular detour destinations for 2025, according to the percentage increase in flight searches on the site (based on data pulled from September 2023 through August 2024).
- Reims, France (detour from Paris)
- Brescia, Italy (detour from Milan)
- Cozumel, Mexico (detour from Cancun)
- Santa Barbara, California, USA (detour from LA)
- Waikato, New Zealand (detour from Auckland)
- Girona, Spain (detour from Barcelona)
- Fukuoka, Japan (detour from Tokyo)
- Abu Dhabi, UAE (detour from Dubai)
- Krabi, Thailand (detour from Phuket)
- Canmore, Alberta, Canada (detour from Calgary)
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