Americans are starting to plan for holiday travel, and according to Google, they're looking to swap cozy, snow-dusted destinations for sunnier climes. The holiday hype usually conjures up wintry European Christmas markets and hot mulled beverages to ward off the cold, but this year is shaping up to look a bit different, per search data.
Research from Google Flights reveals that Rio de Janeiro is the top trending international destination for the December holidays this year, thanks to its golden beaches, more than 300 hiking trails and cultural gems that sparkle even brighter under the Brazilian sun. While much of the world huddles up in sweaters, Rio offers a different kind of December magic: sipping caipirinhas beachside, exploring Tijuca National Park or ringing in the new year with millions of revelers (all dressed in white for good luck) on Copacabana Beach. With balmy weather and endless opportunities to be outdoors, it’s no surprise Rio is seeing a surge in flight searches from U.S. travelers heading south between December 21 and January 4.
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Following closely behind are two more warm-weather escapes. St. Lucia, with its volcanic peaks and palm-fringed coastline, comes in as the second-most trending destination. Marrakech, Morocco, rounds out the top three with its vibrant souks, rooftop dining and desert excursions—ideal for anyone who wants a holiday season with spice.
Of course, the December holidays aren’t the only time Americans are on the move. Thanksgiving remains the busiest travel period overall. The TSA recorded record-breaking passenger numbers last year, and Google says this year Columbia, South Carolina, is the top trending spot for Thanksgiving getaways. With its oak-lined avenues, historic architecture and rich southern cuisine, it’s easy to see why.
Bozeman, Montana—gateway to Yellowstone and a hub for outdoor adventure—claimed the second spot, followed by Spokane, Washington; Detroit, Michigan; and Omaha, Nebraska.
If you’re hoping to save a little cash on flights, Google’s analysis shows the sweet spot for booking Thanksgiving travel is about 35 days in advance, while Christmas flights are usually cheapest 51 days out. That means mid-October through mid-November is prime time to score a deal for holiday travel.
Whatever your holiday plans are, start thinking about flights now. James Byers, Google’s group product manager for Search, recommends booking early if you've got locked-in plans, but flexible flyers should set up price alerts for the chance to save big by waiting until just the right moment.