A new report released today by Amadeus, in collaboration with UN Tourism, reveals continued growth in demand for travel to destinations across the Americas, despite economic and geopolitical challenges.

According to data from Amadeus’ Navigator360, North America continues to be the most popular and searched for destination, seeing 13 per cent growth in September to December compared to the same period last year.

Central America has seen similar growth (12 per cent) as travellers look for sun.

The third report in the series, Travel Insights: Focus on Americas, September to December 2024, highlights the top travel trends for the region and is designed to support national tourism administrations (NTAs) and national tourism organisations (NTOs), destination management organisations (DMOs) and private sector companies to drive tourism in their regions.

The data insights help guide strategic decision-making in order to attract travelers considering a trip to the Americas.

Zurab Pololikashvili, secretary general, UN Tourism, said: “UN Tourism is pleased to once again partner with our Affiliate Member Amadeus to provide key insights on travel trends to the Americas.

“The data on searches and bookings provides an essential tool for all stakeholders in the region and enhances data driven sound strategies for tourism.”

Key areas of growth across the subregions

The top ten most searched destinations remain the same as 2023, with the US, Canada, and Mexico topping the list.

Demand for beach destinations over the holiday season continues to trend, as searches for Mexico stand out with 19 per cent growth for the period analysed.

The highest growth rate in destinations was seen by Chile (29 per cent), followed by Colombia (27 per cent), and Peru (24 per cent).

A noteworthy trend can be seen in the resurgence of Chinese travellers, largely due to the improved air connectivity and the easing of travel restrictions.

When looking at North America, China is in the top 30 origin markets based on search volume, with a 53 per cent growth in travelers searching for trips to the Americas compared to 2023. Japan saw a similar significant growth rate of 40 per cent.

Francisco Pérez-Lozao Rüter, president, Hospitality, Amadeus, said: “I am optimistic to see the continued demand for travel in the Americas region.

“This third Americas report in partnership with UN Tourism has continued to show the role and impact of data insights to help destinations promote and target the right travellers.

“Having transparency on where people are searching to travel gives destinations the power to launch campaigns to capitalise on this interest.

“It also helps show where there may be declines from certain regions so that DMOs, travel organisations and other travel industry players can rethink their strategy if they wish to target existing and new markets.

“These insights are invaluable to target the travellers of tomorrow.”