Explore Worldwide released its report on next year’s trends and apparently hidden gems like Laos, Mongolia and Zimbabwe will be on the list for tourists seeking authenticity over crowds.
“We’re seeing destinations like Colombia’s Coffee Triangle, northern Laos, and inland Croatia are attracting interest, with Laos up 160% year-on-year, Mongolia 60%, Nicaragua 32%, and Zimbabwe 29%,” said regional manager Ben Ittensohn.
“These are all examples of places which offer authentic, responsible travel experiences and form part of a wider movement away from the well-trodden path, towards journeys that feel more personal and connected.”
Expedia also recently released a list of emerging destinations for 2026, all of which go beyond typical overcrowded tourist hotspots.
“Some of my most unforgettable travel moments come from immersing myself in local cultures, supporting local economies, and exploring less-travelled destinations,” said Ariane Gorin, CEO of Expedia Group.
Some of the emerging destinations from Expedia’s report included Big Sky, US; Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Phu Quoc, Vietnam; Savoie, France; Fort Walton Beach, Florida; Uceluelet, Canada; Cotswolds, UK; San Miguel de Allende, Mexico and Hobart in Australia.
This search for off-the-beaten-path destinations beautifully dovetails into the rise of the slow travel trend, as tourists look for more authenticity.
“This form of travel isn’t just about ‘slowing down’ while on holidays – it’s actually a complete mindset; a way to approach how you plan your trip, how you travel, and the connections you have with different places and people,” Andrew Cavallaro from agency This is Helm told travel Bulletin.
But there are also some economic benefits for travellers – and the communities they support – when they choose to travel to new destinations.
“Inspiring your clients to visit lesser-known destinations means that they’ll be more reliant on you for your expertise, and funnel more of their bookings via you (rather than self-booking),” pointed out Cavallaro.
In addition, encouraging low and shoulder season travel means that you get to better manage your sales peaks and troughs throughout the year, and secondly, your clients will get better value for money and a more pleasant experience.
“And promoting longer, slower itineraries, means their length of stay, and therefore their booking spend will increase too,” he added.
You can check out Travel Daily’s special report on slow travel HERE.
Hidden gems of Southeast Asia
While Southeast Asia may still be Australians’ favourite destination, there are plenty of beautiful places left to be discovered, according to agents and travel leaders.
“Southeast Asia is experiencing a major resurgence, with bookings from AUNZ markets up 47% year-to-date. Travellers are increasingly seeking a mix of cultural immersion and active experiences, and several destinations stand out as clear growth leaders,” Ittensohn told travelBulletin, mentioning the strong growth of tours such as Explore’s ‘Malaysia and Singapore Explorer’, ‘Highlights of Laos’, ‘Highlights of Vietnam and Cambodia’, ‘Exotic Java and Bali’ and ‘Bangkok to Saigon by Bike’.
Of course, Bali is a big favourite for many Aussies, but there is so much of Indonesia yet to be explored, said Jade Garlick from Roast & Roam, who has visited the country multiple times.
“Clients are loving the ‘outside the box’ suggestions including Gilli islands, Nusa Lembongan, Penida and Labuan Bajo,” she said.
“This is getting them off the beaten track and outside the main tourist destinations and providing them with more authentic travel experiences which is what people seem to be asking for more now.”
Other tips from Garlick include the Flores Islands in Indonesia, the pink sandy beaches in the Komodo islands, Padar Island for the views and Labuan Bajo for clear water, hikes and amazing sunsets.
Elyse Palmer from TravelManagers also agreed that “Komodo is a standout”, due to its national park filled with Komodo dragons and the breathtaking scenery, snorkelling and diving opportunities on the surrounding islands.
“Sapa, in northern Vietnam, is another hidden gem I often recommend especially for clients interested in nature, culture, and hiking,” she added.
“The terraced rice fields, villages and cool mountain air give it a completely different feel to the rest of the country. It’s ideal for those looking to connect with the more traditional, rural side of Vietnam.”
To check out Travel Daily’s special report on Southeast Asia, click HERE.
