Spring Into This Season’s Hottest New Travel Trends

Notice the leaves changing? Detect that lingering sweetness in the air? That’s right folks, spring has finally sprung and with a new season, comes a whole new travel itinerary and travel trends. So what’s in the travel stars for the months ahead?

I had a chat with three globetrotting gurus to find out what to expect this season when it comes to all things jet-setting – Sarah Barnes, Airfares Specialist and expert explorer; Cherie Oke, founder of luxe travel gifting label Au Revoir (aurevoir.com.au); and Lauren Stewart, Marketing Manager for one of Australia’s leading travel wholesalers (and self-confessed holidaying pro). Yep, it’s out with the old and in with the new, and we want to make sure you’ve got all the inside info to make your springtime getaway bloomen’ wonderful.

Sarah, what international destinations are giving Aussie travellers itchy feet this spring?

SB: During the Aussie winter months we saw a massive spike in consumers flocking to Croatia. A lot of tour companies offer fantastic deals on sailing trips, which is a great way to bundle your accommodation, meals and sightseeing- all while enjoying the crystal waters of the Adriatic! Spring generally sees a lot of travellers head to the USA, as airfares are becoming more affordable. Another destination which is really starting to take off is Boracay in Phillippines. Affordable with beautiful beaches, you can score direct flights from Sydney to Manila daily, then connect the following morning. In the months ahead I predict it will become a new favourite.

And close to home?

SB: Staycations are absolutely booming. Leading up to Christmas, we all love a little break. Melbourne in springtime is always a winner. There’s so much going on – whether it’s the AFL grand final, spring racing carnival or the abundance of food and wine events. Interestingly, Canberra has made a comeback, perhaps due to the line-up of world class exhibitions we’ve been seeing at the National Gallery of Australia. But one destination we’ve really seen a spike in popularity is Tasmania. Consumers both old and young have recently been attracted to this beautiful state more now than ever and are using their two-week spring holiday to explore the region on driving trips. Hiring a campervan is a popular option, as is transporting your own vehicle over on the Spirit of Tasmania. With so many gorgeous landscapes, markets, wineries and attractions like MONA (Museum of Old and New Art), everyone can find something to enjoy in Tassie.

Any secret tips you can let us in on when it comes to getting to our dream holiday spot?

SB: Always check all options. From websites like Cheapflights to official airline websites, you can often find quite a difference in prices. Depending on your budget and flexibility, travelling by car, bus, train or even ferry could be an option, or alternatively check out flights that go through a different city. It may add a bit of time onto your transit, but if you’re flexible, it could save hundreds.

Lauren, any new trends in the style of travel we’ll be doing this season?

LS: Cruising gained a lot of popularity last year and continues to attract consumers. Not just European river cruises, but also Hong Kong river cruises and more local South Pacific cruises. Adventure trips are also on the rise – travellers are showing a lot of interest in places like India, where you can experience the contrast of sheer beauty and raw culture. Goa’s beaches are also a highlight. We’ve also seen whole families getting involved with group trips. Everyone from aunties, uncles and grandmas!

What destinations have you seen added to this season’s itinerary?

LS: Thailand, Fiji and Bali will continue to be highly popular. Especially Bali, since Tigerair Australia will fly internationally for the first time when it starts flying five times a week from Adelaide to Denpasar, and daily from Melbourne and Perth to Denpasar, in March 2016. I’ve also noticed a lot of consumers travelling to the Carribean, to places like the Bahamas. Rural towns in the USA are also becoming quite popular, I guess as more people want to veer from the crowded, touristy destinations.

What if I can’t afford a spring getaway? Anywhere at home I can experience a similar “international” vibe?

LS: Absolutely! These days, our major capitals are pro’s at hosting international themed events for local residents and visitors alike. Head to Sydney in October to experience a little bit of Hong Kong at the Night Noodle Markets (Oct 8 – Oct 25), or the Cuban Jazz Festival in Melbourne (Oct 24). Cuba is also starting to become a hot destination for travellers, so you could get inspired for your next adventure!

Cherie, what’s your favourite new travel must-have item for this season?

CO: I have fallen in love with the range of silk robe/kimonos by Australian designer Natalija The Label. Their gorgeous robes look great worn over denim cut offs or with my swimwear at the pool or beach, and are perfect to wear to the hotel spa. Also, being so lightweight they are easy on my luggage space!

Which new items should Aussie travellers make sure they pack for their spring getaway?

CO: For overseas flights I always pack an eye mask – Natalija the Label have created a 100% silk mask which is super comfortable. I have always been a fan of journaling, especially when I’m travelling, and I love the Wanderlust Journal by Bondi duo Axel & Ash. I feel like hand writing is becoming a lost art, so I prefer a book I can have as a keepsake, as opposed to typing on a screen. I never travel without my Body Shop mango body butter – it’s the ultimate product for hydrating my skin after a long flight and it smells divine.

Favourite store you can’t go past when you’re overseas?

CO: This has changed over the years as we are starting to see so many international brands open here in Australia. Even though some of my favourite stores such as Zara, Victoria’s Secret, Lululemon have hit our shores, I still like to pay a visit to these overseas, as often the prices are cheaper depending upon the exchange rate. And I usually buy cosmetics too when I’m overseas, especially Mac, Sephora, Revlon and Loreal. Australians pay some of the highest prices in the world for makeup, so I like to stock up where I can.

Anywhere I can nab some equally cool travel-themed products at home?

CO: Check us out at Au Revoir (aurevoir.com.au). We have over 60 unique travel themed packs, filled with stylish and practical accessories for your next overseas adventure. Our biggest sellers at the moment are our Asia themed packs. Affordable airfares make it near impossible for Australians to resist sneaking in a quick spring getaway to a warm Asian paradise. It is the perfect time to travel before the Christmas peak season hits.