In a significant shift in Irish travel preferences, South Africa, Mexico’s Riviera Maya, and the United Arab Emirates have emerged as the most in-demand long-haul winter sun destinations for 2025 and 2026. According to recent booking insights from Travel Counsellors Ireland, Irish holidaymakers are increasingly swapping European city breaks for immersive, sun-drenched experiences in far-flung locales.
The surge in bookings to these three destinations reflects a broader change in travel behavior. With demand for culturally rich, warm-weather escapes rising, Irish travelers are prioritizing long-haul trips that promise more than just sunshine—they’re seeking adventure, luxury, and transformative moments.
South Africa: Safari Adventures Meet Coastal Luxury
Leading the pack is South Africa, which has recorded a 28% increase in bookings year-on-year. For Irish families and groups, the appeal lies in the country’s unique “safari-and-sea” blend. Travelers can experience the thrill of wildlife safaris in Kruger National Park or private reserves, then unwind on stunning beaches in Cape Town or the Eastern Cape.
The South African Tourism Board reports a steady rise in European visitor arrivals, with Irish travelers increasingly drawn to wildlife encounters, vineyard tours, and scenic coastal drives. This aligns with the growing trend of “bucket-list” travel—where holidaymakers pursue once-in-a-lifetime experiences over traditional package tours.
Riviera Maya: All-Inclusive Paradise for Families and Couples
Mexico’s Riviera Maya, home to sun-kissed beaches, ancient ruins, and all-inclusive resorts, has also become a winter favorite among Irish travelers. Cancún International Airport has reported an uptick in international traffic, with more Irish tourists arriving via North American gateways.
The region’s consistent tropical climate, paired with easy access to world wonders like Chichen Itza and hidden cenotes, makes it a hit with those seeking a blend of culture, comfort, and coastline. Whether it’s luxury stays in Playa del Carmen or family-friendly resorts in Tulum, Riviera Maya offers a flexible escape for Irish sun-seekers.
UAE: From Stopover to Signature Holiday
The United Arab Emirates, especially Dubai and Abu Dhabi, has transformed from a popular stopover into a standalone winter destination for Irish tourists. According to Travel Counsellors Ireland, bookings to the UAE have risen sharply, with travelers drawn to the region’s luxury lifestyle, desert safaris, and year-round sunshine.
Dubai’s record-breaking attractions—such as the Burj Khalifa, Ain Dubai, and Atlantis The Royal—are increasingly on Irish travelers’ radar. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi’s cultural hubs like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and desert retreats like Qasr Al Sarab cater to those seeking both modern opulence and authentic Arabian experiences.
Long-Haul Over Short-Haul: A New Irish Travel Reality
What’s driving the move away from Europe? Industry experts suggest several factors:
- Post-pandemic travel confidence
- Rising disposable income
- Desire for unique experiences
- Better perceived value in long-haul vs. short-haul holidays
Rather than returning to crowded European hotspots, Irish travelers are turning to destinations that offer space, sunshine, and a sense of wonder.
Emerging Destinations Gaining Momentum
While South Africa, Mexico, and the UAE lead the pack, other long-haul destinations are gaining ground among Irish tourists:
- Thailand has seen a 12% rise in bookings, thanks to its blend of beach relaxation (Phuket, Koh Samui), urban culture (Bangkok), and culinary adventure.
- Australia bookings are up 16%, with Irish travelers exploring Sydney, the Great Barrier Reef, and coastal road trips in Queensland.
- New Zealand is the breakout star, with a 48% year-on-year increase in Irish tourists. Its mix of adventure tourism, scenic fjords, and indigenous Māori culture is resonating deeply with experience-seeking travelers.
Multi-Generational and Group Travel Fuel the Trend
According to Travel Counsellors, the spike in winter travel is also linked to a rise in multi-generational family trips and group holidays. Destinations like South Africa and Mexico are particularly well-suited, with accommodations and itineraries that cater to all ages.
Celebration-based travel—birthdays, retirements, anniversaries—has also become a driver of group long-haul bookings. For these travelers, choosing a memorable destination is key, and faraway adventures tick all the boxes.
Travel Counsellors Ireland: Curating Tailored Experiences
Travel Counsellors Ireland plays a pivotal role in shaping this long-haul boom. With a team of over 85 Irish-based travel experts and access to a global network, the company offers highly personalized trip planning services.
From tailor-made safaris in South Africa to wellness retreats in Tulum or luxury desert escapes in Abu Dhabi, Travel Counsellors delivers unique itineraries suited to evolving traveler demands. Their use of real-time technology, local insight, and round-the-clock service ensures Irish holidaymakers have seamless experiences from booking to return.
Conclusion: A Winter Sun Revolution for Irish Tourism
The Irish appetite for long-haul winter travel is no longer a niche—it’s fast becoming the new normal. With South Africa, Mexico’s Riviera Maya, and the UAE leading the way, 2025 marks a turning point in how Irish tourists seek sun, adventure, and cultural discovery during the colder months.
And with growing interest in Thailand, Australia, and New Zealand, the long-haul travel trend shows no signs of slowing down. As Irish holidaymakers continue to prioritize meaningful, immersive escapes, travel experts like Travel Counsellors Ireland are essential in guiding them to new horizons.
Whether it’s safaris at sunrise, cenotes in the jungle, or luxury in the dunes, Irish travelers in 2025 are chasing the extraordinary—and finally finding it.
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