Filipino Travel Trends: Overseas Celebrations Soar for New Year’s Eve

As the holiday season approaches, a growing number of Filipinos are planning international trips to ring in 2025, according to digital travel platform Agoda. The platform reports a 34% surge in accommodation searches for overseas destinations, reflecting an increasing trend of Filipinos celebrating New Year’s Eve abroad.

More Filipinos Eye International Travel for New Year’s Eve Celebrations

Agoda identified Tokyo, Hong Kong, Taipei, Bangkok, and Singapore as the top five international destinations for Filipino travelers this holiday season. Meanwhile, domestic travel remains strong, with searches increasing by 2% compared to last year. Within the Philippines, Manila, Cebu, and Boracay Islands are the most popular choices for local travelers seeking festive getaways.

Inbound tourism to the Philippines is also on the rise, with searches increasing by 10% year-over-year. Visitors from South Korea, Japan, and the United States are leading the influx, favoring destinations such as Manila, Cebu, and Bohol. “More international travelers are considering starting 2025 here in the Philippines,” said Mike Hwang, Agoda’s country director, highlighting the country’s growing appeal as a holiday destination.

In preparation for the increased demand, Philippine Airlines (PAL) has announced plans to mount additional flights to key domestic and international destinations. “Our goal is to help people reunite with their loved ones, and we’re committed to expanding our services to meet the needs of our customers and make holiday travel as convenient as possible,” PAL said in a statement.

The airline’s efforts come as the Philippines aims to boost its international tourism numbers. As of December 15, 2024, the country has welcomed 5.65 million international visitors, falling short of its 7.7-million target for the year, according to the Department of Tourism.

The surge in travel-related searches underscores the Filipino spirit of celebration and exploration during the holiday season. Whether opting for iconic cityscapes abroad or picturesque islands within the Philippines, travelers are eager to make the most of the season. With increased flight options and rising interest from international visitors, the Philippines and its outbound travelers are set to embrace a vibrant start to 2025.

For those planning their holidays, early bookings and preparation remain essential to secure accommodations and flights amidst the heightened demand. As Mike Hwang aptly puts it, “It’s exciting to see more Filipinos looking to celebrate New Year’s Eve abroad.”

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