China and Türkiye: The Rising Stars of Global Travel
Travel data from Trip.com Group shows that China and Türkiye are on track to become top‑choice destinations for both Southeast Asian and European tourists in 2026. Trip.com’s 2026 booking engine recorded triple‑digit year‑on‑year growth in flight reservations from Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand to China, while German travellers are already planning Türkiye as their #1 outbound destination.
What’s fueling the surge?
Both markets combine cultural depth with modern infrastructure. In China, cities such as Beijing and Shanghai now offer seamless visa‑on‑arrival processes for SEA citizens, while Türkiye’s new e‑visa platform cuts approval time to under 5 minutes.
Entertainment‑Led Travel: From Theme Parks to Franchise‑Fever
Gen‑Z and Millennials (aged 15‑44) now account for nearly 70 % of global bookings. Their travel agendas are dominated by immersive experiences—think live K‑pop concerts, Harry Potter studio tours, and blockbuster‑themed attractions.
Iconic parks that won’t disappoint
- Shanghai Disney Resort – projected 12 % increase in 2026 attendance.
- Hong Kong Disneyland – new “Marvel Superhero” zone launching Q2 2026.
- Universal Studios Japan – “Jurassic World: The Experience” extended through 2027.
Franchise‑driven attractions
Travelers from South Korea are flocking to the Jurassic World: The Experience in Bangkok, while Tokyo’s EVANGELION Anniversary Exhibition is already selling out weeks in advance.
Nature, Culture & Alternative Journeys
Beyond the glitter of entertainment, travelers are craving authentic encounters with nature and heritage. Data from UNWTO (2024) shows that 42 % of European tourists rank “natural scenery” as a primary motivator, while 38 % of Southeast Asian travellers prefer “cultural immersion”.
Top nature‑focused picks
- New Zealand’s Milford Sound – a favourite among German cruise enthusiasts.
- China’s Chimelong Safari Park – sees a 9 % YoY rise in Southeast Asian bookings.
- Vietnam’s Arashiyama Sagano Romantic Train – trending with Vietnamese families seeking “scenic rail experiences”.
Cultural must‑sees
Paris’s Louvre Museum, Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia, and Zurich’s Grossmünster remain in the top‑10 list for 2026 cultural itineraries.
Self‑Driving Trips & the EV Boom
Since the introduction of carbon‑labelled rentals in April 2025, Trip.com records a steady month‑on‑month rise in electric‑vehicle (EV) bookings, especially from Norway, Australia and Japan. A recent Statista report shows a 28 % increase in global EV rentals in 2025.
Why EVs are winning
- Eco‑conscious image: 71 % of Japanese travellers say “low carbon footprint” influences their transport choice (Trip.com survey, Q1 2026).
- Cost savings: Average daily EV rental cost is 12 % lower than gasoline equivalents in Australia.
- Infrastructure: Europe now boasts over 150,000 public fast‑charging stations, making cross‑border road trips seamless.
Train & Cruise Journeys: The Re‑Emergence of Slow Travel
Luxury cruises such as Royal Princess and scenic rail routes like the Arashiyama Sagano Romantic Train are gaining traction among German and Vietnamese travellers, who value “slow travel” for deeper immersion.
Key statistics
– 18 % of German travellers booked a cruise in Q4 2025, a 4‑point increase from 2024 (German Travel Association).
– Vietnamese tourists ranking “train travel” as a top‑10 activity rose from 9 % in 2023 to 16 % in 2025 (Trip.com data).
FAQs – Quick Answers for the Curious Traveller
- Q: Which Asian country is expected to attract the most Southeast Asian travellers in 2026?
- A: China, with a projected triple‑digit growth in flight bookings.
- Q: Are EV rentals really cheaper than conventional cars?
- Yes. In most major markets, EV rentals are 10‑15 % less expensive per day, plus you save on fuel.
- Q: What’s the best way to combine theme‑park fun with cultural experiences?
- Book a “city‑plus‑park” package—many operators now bundle a night in a cultural district with a park‑day pass.
- Q: How can I find the latest concert‑travel deals?
- Visit Trip.com’s Events & Tickets section for exclusive bundles.
Take the Next Step
Ready to shape your 2026 itinerary? Explore the latest deals on flights, hotels, and experiences now or subscribe to our travel‑trend newsletter for monthly insights. Share your thoughts in the comments below—what destination excites you most?
