Many have their sights set on Europe this year, with France being the top destination.

New York, United States, December 22, 2024 -- Millions of Americans are swapping pumpkin pie for pasta this year, as they gear up to spend at least part of the holiday season abroad. 

A new study revealed over a fifth (21%) of Americans are planning to travel abroad at some point between Thanksgiving and the New Year – and over a third (37%) of those jetting off during these dates are doing so for the first time. 

The research conducted by luxury travel operator, Scott Dunn, used a combination of survey results from 2,000 US adults and their own internal booking data to explore the trend. 

Of those traveling abroad between late November and January, almost half (45%) revealed they are visiting Europe, with France (10%) being the most popular destination, closely followed by Italy (8%). 

Scott Dunn has also seen a 300% year-in-year increase in US client bookings for France vacations over the festive period. 

Other popular destinations for the festive period - according to Scott Dunn bookings data - include St Barts (+100% YoY), St Lucia (+100% YoY), South Africa (+86% YoY), Morrocco (+75% YoY) and Thailand (+30% YoY). 

The most popular dates to travel abroad are during the Christmas week (23rd-27th December), with 23% of those going away this festive season traveling then. 

This was followed by New Year (22%) and Thanksgiving (21%). 

In the survey, the top reason for traveling abroad during the festive period was to visit friends and family (33%), closely followed by a need to relax and unwind (31%). 

The survey revealed the top activity American travelers will be enjoying during their holiday vacation is trying new cuisines and foodie spots, with 70% saying this is on their agenda. 

Relaxing on a beach (32%), visiting culture or historic sites (28%) and relaxing in a spa or wellness retreat (24%) were other popular options. 

Stephanie McClendon, Sales and Service Manager at Scott Dunn shared her thoughts on why more Americans are choosing to travel abroad during the holidays this year:  

“We’ve seen a steady increase in the popularity of vacations being taken between Thanksgiving and New Year over the last few years, suggesting this is a growing trend. 

“While reasons for travel will vary, our US client bookings data for holiday season vacations this year indicates that those who are going abroad are taking a longer break in locations offering either winter snow (for skiing and so on) or sun. 

“An extended trip that allows you to see family and friends, as well as explore a dream destination, and soak up sun on the slopes or at the beach, is naturally appealing to many of us. 

“And while Christmas at home can be very special, it’s also understandable that many may welcome a change of scenery or pace to reset before the New Year, with a trip abroad putting the focus back on relaxing and enjoying the time off work, and less on keeping to a hectic holiday schedule.” 

For more information, please visit: https://www.scottdunn.com/us/inspiration/travel-trends/reports/2025/winter  

Contact Info:
Name: Alisia Horwood
Email: Send Email
Organization: IDHL Group
Website: https://www.scottdunn.com/us/

Release ID: 89149029

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