With the holiday season and 2024 (yikes!) not far away, Australians have revealed their biggest New Year’s resolutions – and topping the list is the intent to travel more, a major study shows.
In a British Airways survey targeting frequent flyers (those jet-setting more than four times a year), the resounding resolution was to “travel more”, surpassing commitments to save money and exercise more regularly.
According to the research, the COVID-19 pandemic notably shifted Australians’ travel attitudes, with half expressing a desire for more frequent getaways of shorter durations.
Interestingly, two in five (39 per cent) Aussies are also contemplating trips to destinations they had never considered before.
How are we travelling?
For 2024, sightseeing takes the lead as the preferred activity for half of travellers, followed by cultural experiences and museum visits. Additionally, one in five (19 per cent) are looking forward to more relaxation.
Elsewhere, a third (33 per cent) plan to immerse themselves in new cultures, while three in five (62 per cent) vow to explore off-the-beaten-track destinations.
Adventure and exploration top the priority list for two in five (39 per cent) travellers.
Where are we going?
Europe emerges as the most desired region to visit next year (29 per cent), closely followed by the US (28 per cent).
One in five (20 per cent) travellers plan to attend major sports or entertainment events in European cities hosting a summer of sports. Wellbeing is also a prominent focus, with one in five (20 per cent) of Aussies prioritising ‘quality me time’ for the perfect holiday.
“We are not surprised Europe remains the most popular travel region for customers down under,” British Airways Chief Commercial Officer Colm Lacy said.
“With our convenient schedule from Sydney arriving into London first thing every morning, they can enjoy seamless onwards connections to more than 100 European destinations.
“If you’re a lover of city-breaks, passionate about wellness or adventure travel there is an ideal retreat for every Australian to explore in 2024.”
The new data aligns with the findings from British Airways’ Holidays 2023 Travel Trends Report, in which three in five (63 per cent) consumers highlighted holidays as their main self-treat.
That report also noted that over half of Gen Z and Millennials plan to book a package holiday this year, and two in five (40 per cent) associate ‘all-inclusive’ with luxury.
What’s new at BA?
Looking to enhance the travel experience, British Airways recently completed a lounge refresh at Heathrow Terminal 5B, featuring new restaurant areas, updated furniture and a quiet zone.
Notably, BA is the first airline to boast a bespoke Whispering Angel bar, allowing eligible customers to savour the famous rosé before their flight and add a touch of luxury to their journey.
Read about the resolutions Australians said they would make in 2023.