Travel to Asia is expected to finally recover to epidemic levels in 2025 as demand for Southeast Asian destinations in South Africa continues to grow.
According to Amadeus Travel trends 2025 The report said the reopening of Asian markets and expanded airline routes are key contributors to the expected boom.
“As we look ahead, we look forward to a renaissance of travel to and from Asia. At Amadeus, we understand the importance of the reopening of this geography and the opportunities it presents for our partners around the world. The return of outbound travel from China to the Asia-Pacific region coupled with growing demand for inbound experiences heralds a new appetite for cultural exploration and luxury travel,” it said. Wolfgang KriepsSVP of Corporate Strategy at Amadeus.
“Thailand is likely to be the most talked about travel destination of 2025 thanks to the third season of the popular TV drama.”White lotusbeing located there, as well as many luxury hotel openings,” Amadeus said.
Thailand will also become an even more enticing getaway with the addition of its digital nomadic visa, with the Tourism Authority of Thailand recording an impressive 36 million visitors in 2024 and expected to hit the 40 million mark in 2025.
Leslie SimpsonLesley Simpson of Communications, who represents the Tourism Authority of Thailand in South Africa, said the region has high ambitions.
“At this stage, our number of South Africans returning to Thailand has not returned to pre-birth levels, but the demand is definitely there. The problem is the flights, their lack and costs.”
However, as Thailand has high hopes for the return of South African travelers, Dominic FrickThe CEO of WOLO Travel believes that the outlook for the Southeast Asian region is positive. “Thailand remains a particular favorite, while demand for Bali has increased in recent months and interest in Vietnam is also growing steadily.”
This has been reflected recently Travel news request. When asked which Southeast Asian destinations are the most popular, Thailand emerged as the top choice, voted for by the majority of respondents (40%), followed by Bali with 24% and Vietnam/Cambodia in third place with 16%.
“Thailand is particularly popular with first-time visitors looking for affordable packages that provide excellent value and memorable experiences,” said Frick.
As for travel trends in Southeast Asia, Frick said couples make up a significant portion of Thailand bookings, and there is also a significant increase in small group travel.
Bali, on the other hand, seems to be next on the bucket list for travelers who have already visited Thailand. “It reflects the affordability and value of Thailand while offering fresh cultural experiences.”
He said more experienced travelers are looking for unique and exploratory vacations in Vietnam. “Our travelers span a wide age range, but the typical demographic for our Asian packages falls between 30 and 45.”