Travel companies are reporting a significant increase in demand for long-haul holidays as destinations like Thailand and Vietnam become more affordable than traditional European favorites.
Kuoni, a leading travel brand, announced that long-haul bookings for the year ahead have risen by 14% compared to the same time in 2024. Similarly, Thomas Cook, an online holiday package provider, reported a 10% year-on-year increase in long-haul bookings.
According to Kuoni, travelers are increasingly seeking “experience-led trips,” such as wildlife encounters, cooking classes, and wellness-focused vacations. Popular long-haul destinations for the brand include the Maldives, Thailand, Antigua, Vietnam, and South Africa.
Mark Duguid, managing director of Kuoni UK, said the company has had a “terrific” start to the year, with a wide variety of global destinations selling well. He added, “It’s clear that long-haul travel is thriving right now for many different reasons.”
While long-haul flights have faced criticism for their environmental impact due to high carbon emissions, many travelers are prioritizing value for money when choosing their destinations. Vietnam, in particular, has been highlighted for offering a mix of city life, culture, beaches, and affordable prices that appeal to experience-seeking tourists.
At Thomas Cook, a spokesperson explained that during the summer months, the price of holidays to distant destinations often compares favorably with those in the Mediterranean. This, they say, encourages people to travel farther afield and explore new destinations for a similar price.
This trend could also be linked to changes in pension tax rules announced in last October’s budget. Experts predict that some older individuals may choose to spend more of their pension savings on holidays and big-ticket items before the new inheritance tax rules take effect in 2027.
Thomas Cook noted that popular U.S. destinations, such as New York, Florida, and Las Vegas, have seen significant growth in bookings. Currently, the company is offering seven-night packages to Las Vegas, including return flights from London, for under £550 per person.
The spokesperson also highlighted that Mauritius and Thailand are particularly appealing for families looking for great value and new experiences abroad.
Julia Lo Bue-Said, CEO of Advantage Travel Partnership, a network of independent travel agents, confirmed strong momentum in long-haul travel. She said the demand has surged in recent weeks, particularly during school holidays. “Many families are realizing that long-haul destinations can be more cost-effective than European alternatives, especially in regions like Thailand and the Far East, where local costs remain low,” she said.
Lo Bue-Said also noted that the popularity of TV shows such as The White Lotus, set in Thailand, and ITV’s Love Island All Stars, filmed in South Africa, could boost interest in these destinations for holidays in 2025.
In October, the government announced that unspent pension funds would be included in inheritance tax calculations starting in April 2027. Some critics, including former pensions minister Ros Altmann, argue that this policy may prompt individuals to spend their pension savings rather than save them, creating an incentive to splurge on travel and other big expenses.
As demand for long-haul travel continues to rise, it’s clear that travelers are increasingly looking beyond Europe for affordable, adventurous, and culturally rich experiences.
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