home/Familiarists not tourists: Travel like a local

Familiarists not tourists: Travel like a local

In our current, more restricted world, local travel will continue to be a popular choice among travelers since it remains easier, safer, and—fortunately—often more sustainable. As people get more comfortable exploring closer to home, new trends for local getaways are climbing to the top of travel agendas.
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Rise in local destination searches: Showing the increase in rank of local destination searches by Booking.com users in summer 2020 compared to summer 2019, grouped by user country of origin.
Select a country to see the rise in local destination searches by users located in that country.*

The rise of the staycation

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Looking ahead, staying closer to home will continue to be at the forefront of travel agendas. 47% of people still plan to travel within their own countries over the medium term (the next 7–12 months), with 38% planning to do so in the longer term (over a year).

When it comes to local travel, 43% plan to explore a new destination within their home region/country, and 46% will take the time to appreciate the natural beauty of their home country. Whether travelers decide to stay local or not, half of those asked intend to travel somewhere they’ve already been.

Doorstep delights offer both cost and time savings for travelers, and we’re likely to see destinations and accommodations respond with extra add-ons to their travel offerings, such as historic and cultural heritage tours to educate and entertain visitors. New, more novel experiences such as guest chefs and artisanal cocktails could also added to the mix to help win local tourists’ affection.

Book now on our platform and embark on a unique and memorable travel experience.

arity-of-traveling-with-pets">The popularity of traveling with pets

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Traveling with furry companions has been at the top of travelers’ minds in recent months, with the use of Booking.com’s “pet-friendly” filter more than doubling since travel restrictions† began. With no sign of slowing, the trend to travel with pets is one that we’re likely to see continue throughout 2021 and beyond.

A renaissance of the road trip

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The desire to explore closer to home is fulling a renaissance of road trips to rediscover forgotten local gems. With a renewed passion to support local business and communities, travelers seek to rebuild and inspire a newfound sense of pride in the history and beauty that’s just around the corner.

Still dreaming of far-away travel?

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While local travel will continue to keep travelers busy well into 2021, the desire to jet-set to far-away places still remains strong in the traveler psyche. Appreciation for familiarity will sit alongside an enduring love and anticipation of international travel and exotic destinations.

Almost a quarter (21%) of people intend to travel to the other side of the world by the end of 2021, compared to only 6% who intend to do so by the end of 2020. Booking.com wish list data shows where our users are dreaming of traveling. During 2020, the top five wish-listed destinations were London, Paris, Saint Petersburg, Dubai, and Barcelona.

Source: booking