American Express Travel® has just released its highly anticipated 2024 Trending Destinations list, offering a fresh perspective on travel by highlighting 10 must-visit vacation spots that are less trodden but equally captivating.
Compiled based on global American Express® Cardmember bookings and insights from its team of 6,000 expert Travel Consultants, this year’s theme, ‘Off the Beaten Path,’ caters to the evolving preferences of Millennials and Gen-Z travelers seeking unique experiences and cultural immersion.
Audrey Hendley, President of American Express Travel, emphasizes the growing desire among travelers to explore new horizons and immerse themselves in local cultures. The list serves as a comprehensive guide, providing alternative destinations to popular hotspots, promising new adventures and opportunities to escape the crowds.
Key highlights from the 2024 Trending Destinations list include:
- Adelaide Hills, Australia: A rural retreat offering charming villages and a vibrant culinary scene, presenting an alternative to the popular Blue Mountains of New South Wales.
- Bodrum, Turkiye: For those enchanted by Istanbul’s history and energy, Bodrum offers stunning beaches along the Aegean Sea, bustling bazaars, fresh seafood, and an active nightlife.
- Porto Cervo, Italy: Located in Sardinia, this pastel-hued town offers a more exclusive but equally glamorous alternative to the iconic Amalfi Coast, complete with delicious cuisine.
- St. Kitts and Nevis, Caribbean: A perfect blend of sparkling seas, friendly locals, and historic culture, this destination is ideal for those who enjoy the laid-back vibes of the U.S. Virgin Islands.
- Niseko, Japan: A winter sports haven on the northernmost island of Hokkaido, providing a memorable skiing experience akin to Sapporo.
- San Miguel de Allende, Mexico: An urban gem with colorful scenery and vibrant culture, offering a different perspective from the popular Riviera Maya.
- Santa Fe, New Mexico: A blend of American Southwest culture, history, and natural beauty, comparable to Sedona.
- The Seychelles: An exclusive beach vacation destination, known for its expansive biodiversity and multicultural vibrancy, paralleling the Maldives.
- Udaipur, India: An uber-romantic city of lakes and palaces, serving as an enchanting alternative to Agra and the Taj Mahal.
- Zermatt, Switzerland: A picturesque skiing locale, offering a similar charm to the Dolomites in Italy.
American Express Travel’s Travel Consultants have meticulously curated the best places to explore, dine, and stay in each destination, ensuring travelers experience the local culture authentically. For instance, visitors can see koalas in the wild in Adelaide Hills, shop for Turkish towels in Bodrum’s bazaars, or visit a ceremonial mask museum in San Miguel de Allende.
With American Express Travel, Cardmembers gain access to a vast global network and incredible benefits. This includes support from Travel Consultants in 23 countries, speaking 13 languages, and over 2,300 properties in 114 countries through the Fine Hotels + Resorts®1 and The Hotel Collection2 programs.
The 2024 Trending Destinations were selected by analyzing global American Express Cardmember bookings through American Express Travel, focusing on travel growth between 2019 and 2023.
