This winter season is marking a clear shift in how Indians plan international holidays, with travellers opting for shorter, value-driven trips planned closer to departure. According to Cox & Kings, changing currency dynamics and higher festive-season costs are influencing travellers to choose destinations that offer easy visa access, predictable expenses, and compact itineraries. As a result, last-minute international bookings have risen sharply, reflecting a more flexible and experience-focused approach to travel.
Data from Cox & Kings shows that last-minute international bookings made within 15–20 days of travel have increased by nearly 30 percent compared to last winter. Notably, over 65 percent of these bookings are for holidays lasting fewer than five days. Instead of curbing travel enthusiasm, the current environment has encouraged travellers to prioritise convenience, affordability, and maximum experiences within a limited time frame, especially during the Christmas and New Year period.
Within this trend, Dubai and Vietnam have emerged as the top festive-season destinations, outperforming several traditional winter favourites despite peak-season demand. Strong air connectivity from India, streamlined visa processes, and the ability to deliver diverse experiences within short stays have made both destinations particularly attractive for spontaneous travellers. These factors have positioned them as reliable choices for quick international breaks.
Cox & Kings has observed a notable shift in traveller demographics as well. Nearly 45 percent of last-minute winter bookings are being made by families travelling with children and senior members, particularly to destinations like Dubai that offer safety, strong medical infrastructure, and indoor experiences. At the same time, Vietnam is seeing rising interest from young adults, first-time international travellers, and groups of friends seeking culturally rich yet affordable experiences.
Dubai continues to dominate as a preferred short-haul winter escape, especially for multi-generational travel. Its extensive range of indoor attractions, winter events, shopping festivals, and easy accessibility from multiple Indian cities make it ideal for three- to four-night itineraries. Travellers are combining classic sightseeing with immersive experiences such as desert safaris, theme parks, indoor snow attractions, and leisure-focused city tours suited to all age groups.
Vietnam, meanwhile, has emerged as the fastest-growing value destination of the season. Millennials and Gen Z travellers are drawn to its mix of natural beauty, cultural depth, food experiences, and social media-driven appeal. Popular inclusions such as Ha Long Bay cruises, Hoi An stays, Hanoi’s café culture, and scenic northern landscapes are shaping last-minute decisions. Overall, the winter of 2025 is seeing Indians embrace shorter, sharper, and more experience-led international holidays, signalling a lasting change in seasonal travel behaviour.
