Man, do we have a GIFT for you, and we’re not talking about that hoverboard you wanted (and probably didn’t get) for Christmas. We’re talking about some Great Information For Travel: the 2016 Travel Hacker Guide, our interactive, in-depth, data-driven tool that will help you plan your best travel year yet.
We’ve analyzed over a billion annual searches (again) to bring you our top 10 lists in 6 key categories. Leading the way are our four anchor lists (Most Popular, Top Trending, Best Deal, and Top Trending Beach), followed by two newcomers (Top Family Destinations and Luxury for Less). No matter what your preferences, we have a destination suggestion, and we’re making sure you walk away with the right information to plan and manage your travel. This includes median airfare by month, median hotel rate by month, weather patterns, when to book recommendations, top hotels, and our very own customized “Hacker Tip.”
If ever you’re wondering where to go or when to get there, take this guide as your first step towards making the right decision. #TravelProblemSolved
Most Popular
These U.S. cities are the destinations seeing the most search activity over the last year, making them the most popular destinations for travelers. In a bit of an upset, flashy Las Vegas took our #1 spot over two-time champion New York City. Let the hashtag battles commence.
Top Trending
These 10 international destinations have seen the greatest increase in interest over the last 12 months. And there’s certainly something in the air in Barcelona. With a whopping 27% increase in popularity, the city is trending harder than #SerialSeason2. What’s causing the commotion? A fluctuating euro and increasing cruise options out of its Mediterranean port appear to be bringing more travelers to experience Barcelona’s beauty.
Top Deals
Cities appearing in our Deal category have seen the biggest drop in median airfare compared to last year. Headlining the list is Hong Kong, which has seen a 26% decrease in median airfare and, based on last year’s data, travel during October will get you the best flight deal with a median airfare of $693.
Top Trending Beach
We’ve broken the trending formula down even further to highlight those destinations that can offer some sun and surf. Maui is definitely riding a wave: there’s been a 61% increase in interest over the past year. And we’re expecting that trend to continue: Virgin Airlines announced that in December 2015 it opened direct flights to the island from San Francisco.
Top Family Destinations
By locating destinations where the majority of searches have three or more travelers in tow, we’ve narrowed down the top cities attracting family travel. It’s no surprise that Orlando leads the way as the top destination to take the kids. But, trust us, there are plenty of things to do in this sunny city that don’t involve mouse ears.
Luxury for Less
End the splurge versus save debate, and do both! We’ve searched the world’s 5-star hotels and found the 10 cities that boast the lowest median hotel rate for deals that don’t skimp on the luxe. The most luxurious-for-less city we’ve found is Medellin, Colombia – with what you’re saving on accommodation in this “city of eternal spring,” go ahead and bump yourself up to business class.
So, this is where we leave you, oh glorious traveler. Still craving more? Check out the full guide for all you need to know to make the right travel decisions in 2016.
