Traveling to exotic destinations, a trend among travelers
From the vibrant energy of Tokyo to the historical richness of Cairo, these destinations reflect a search for the authentic and the remote, with average stays of 15 days and trips mostly as a couple
Despegar, the leading travel company in Latin America, has identified unprecedented growth in interest in far-flung, exotic international destinations.
During the first half of 2025, searches for these locations increased by 134% compared to the same period in 2024.
“We are seeing a clear shift toward less traditional destinations: Argentines are no longer just looking for beaches or major European capitals, but rather places that offer history, culture, and nature all in one trip. Our installment financing and the option to pay in dollars are boosting this trend and facilitating truly transformative experiences,” said Alejandro Festa, Manager of Lodging and Tourism Services at Despegar.
Among the cities that saw the most growth in search interest, Johannesburg, South Africa, stands out, with a 175% increase in searches. Tokyo, Japan, is in second place with a 155% increase, followed by Bangkok, Thailand, which increased by 107%. Cairo, Egypt, registered a 98% increase, while Seoul, South Korea, saw an 84% increase. All of this data corresponds to a comparison with the first half of 2024.
The rise in these destinations is a response to a shift in travel habits: Argentines are seeking unique experiences and longer itineraries, averaging 15 days. These trips include:
● Advance planning: Most reservations are for two people, which indicates more carefully designed trips.
● Differential payment method: 54% of these purchases are made in dollars (compared to 30% in other international destinations), a reflection of the convenience of exchange rates.
● Flexible financing: To keep up with the trend, all Despegar international trips can be paid for in up to three fixed installments, provided the full payment is made at least seven days before departure, and through any of the company's channels.
“To support this trend toward more extensive and personalized travel, we recommend using SOFIA, our Generative AI assistant, at every stage: from planning, offering personalized recommendations, creating itineraries, and suggesting flights, hotels, and activities, to during the stay, providing real-time information on transportation, dining, excursions, and local events.
"SOFIA is a key ally for those who choose less conventional destinations and seek a unique experience with greater autonomy," added Festa.
Source: Despegar