Where the World Wants to Holiday in 2021?

Holidaymakers in the UK and around the world have had to put their trips on pause this year. However, we’re already casting an optimistic eye to the future. According to Google Trends, online searches for ‘2021 holiday’ have increased by an incredible 124% since the end of March so it’s clear to see that people are using this time in lockdown to research next year’s getaway.

We were keen to find out just where in the world people are hoping to head for their much anticipated post-lockdown holidays. To uncover 2021’s most dreamed of destinations, we reviewed data for 131 countries around the world, including the UK, to discover which countries travellers are searching for on Google for next year. Here’s what we found. Click the map for a larger view.

The Most Popular 2021 Destinations in UK Searches
We were intrigued about what might be shaping our 2021 dream holiday lists. These are the three most popular destination searches for UK searchers:

1. The Maldives
With an average of 6000 monthly searches, it’s clear that we’re dreaming of desert island escapes in the Maldives for our 2021 holiday. This picture-perfect archipelago is home to incredible island resorts where there’s little more to do than just relax, go snorkelling or diving, head out on sunset cruises and revive your body and mind at the spa. Exclusive and luxurious, it’s easy to see why these string of paradise atolls have taken top spot.

2. Mexico
Mexico provides an intriguing blend of culture, history, adventure and beach life, just a few of the reasons why it’s the second most popular destination for Brits planning their 2021 holiday. Cancun is a hot spot for those seeking a lively nightlife scene and gorgeous coastlines; head a little further south to the Mayan Riviera for ultra luxe all-inclusive resorts or Tulum for fascinating Mayan monuments and a more laid-back vibe. Those seeking to satisfy cravings for tasty Mexican dishes, dive into the country’s history and soak up Mexican culture should head to vibrant Mexico City and join an escorted a tour across the country.

3. Bali
With its gorgeous beaches, rolling rice-terrace-cloaked hills and tropical rainforests, as well as some incredible dining and nightlife experiences on offer, diverse Bali definitely deserves third position on the UK’s 2021 holiday wish list. The coastline is so varied – you can experience white- and black-sand bays, hidden coves, atmospheric party beaches and relaxed surfing spots around the island. Bali also has some of the best scuba diving sites on the planet, as well as historic temples, relaxing spas and luxurious resorts hidden in the hills around Ubud.

The World’s Most Searched Destinations for 2021
Looking at worldwide data, we were able to pick the top searched-for destinations globally, showing the most popular holiday destinations for 2021 to be:

1. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Home to the popular tourist destination of Dubai, the UAE was the most searched-for holiday spot for 2021 in 11 countries. Each of the seven emirate states has its own characteristics, but they’re all an excellent destination for some winter sun. Dubai has a futuristic style with soaring skyscrapers, epic shopping malls and long stretches of beach, Fujairah has some incredible snorkelling spots and Ras Al Khaimah draws beach lovers to its beautiful coastline.

=2. Canada
In joint second place is Canada. It’s easy to see why this beautiful country might appeal to people dreaming of wide open landscapes and towering mountains. Popular activities here include camping, fishing, hiking, climbing, kayaking and skiing, and there are plenty of opportunities for whale spotting along the both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts. Cities like Toronto and Vancouver also offer a bustling, cosmopolitan buzz for those seeking an alternative to the great outdoors.

=2. USA
Alongside Qatar and Canada in second place is the United States of America, a country so vast and varied it can suit getaway dreams for any kind of holidaymaker. Popular destinations include Florida with its dazzling theme parks, buzzing Las Vegas, soulful New Orleans and New York City, a city with one of the world’s most recognisable skylines. The combination of these eclectic places makes it clear why this is such a popular choice for 2021 breaks.

=2. Qatar
Topping the 2021-related holiday searches for eight countries, Qatar is another Middle Eastern destination that showcases an exciting blend of cutting-edge modernity alongside lively traditional markets and souqs. The capital, Doha, is rapidly expanding – rivalling Abu Dhabi and Dubai in neighbouring UAE for slick architectural design and lofty high-rise towers.

5. Egypt
The most popular 2021 destination for six of the countries we reviewed, is Egypt. This heritage-rich destination is bursting with captivating historical monuments such as the world famous Pyramids and Sphinx of Giza, and the temples in Luxor. There are also beautiful beaches and a vibrant underwater world to explore in coastal resorts like Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh.