Yeppoon in top travel list

Dubbed as The Year of the no-normal, the latest traveller trends report finds there is no longer a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to travel, and that 2023 will bring us a year all about breaking routine and searching for experiences without compromises.

The findings were obtained from the company’s first-party data as well as custom research of thousands of travellers and industry professionals across 17 countries.

Rubbing shoulders with the diverse travel destinations of Bright and Wodonga in Victoria, Tamworth and Goulbourn in NSW, and Nietta in Tasmania, Yeppoon has cracked the list of 10, with the data showing that the demand for each of these hotspots has increased by 55 per cent or more.

President of Expedia Brands Jon Gieselman said when we look at Expedia, Wotif, and Stayz data together, we see a detailed and robust picture of travel into 2023.

“We’re seeing a surge in trips to culture capitals, streaming services inspiring travel, and a spike in demand for outdoor destinations beyond just beaches – not a new normal, but people branching out to unexpected trends in what we’re calling the “no-normal,” she said.

As the Capricorn Coast gears up for a very strong summer holiday period, Capricorn Enterprise CEO, Mary Carroll feels this latest published travel trend is in line with what we already know, as we come off the back of a record couple of years.

“While we know this data release is looking into a crystal ball towards the future, we know that the past remains a perfect indicator of what’s to come,” Mary said.

“Our destination has continued to sustain visitation across 2022, with our accommodation operators from across both the Capricorn Coast including Rockhampton experiencing 85 – 95 per cent occupancy consistently.

“We have no doubt this will continue as we head into 2023, and we look forward to continuing to see our beautiful seaside villages along the Coast and our easily accessible island paradises continue to thrive.”

The insights revealed that over 40 per cent of travellers were inspired by streamed movies and TV shows (Set-Jetters), while another 31 per cent were influenced by social media.

Travellers are also exploring charming locations from high alpine places to farm-style escapes, and the Capricorn Coast is among the destinations that have seen the highest demand increase for farm-style escapes.

“Not only are we proud to promote our stunning beaches and islands on the Capricorn Coast, but we are also fortunate to be in abundance of both country landscapes and national parks, providing visitors with a broad diversity of experiences,” Mary said.

View the full 2023 Travel Trends Report here – https://www.expedia.com/see/2023traveltrends-expedia