Australian and New Zealand travellers are increasingly choosing experience-led, close-to-home itineraries as economic and social uncertainty reshapes travel patterns.
Plateau International Australia and New Zealand sales director Katey Matthews said demand had remained strong across both short and long-haul options through the past quarter.
“Australians and New Zealanders are still seeking short and long-haul travel options across a diverse range of experiences from river cruising to boutique hotels and resorts, with strong interest in luxury offerings across the last quarter for Fiji, Indonesia, Vietnam and Cambodia, and New Zealand,” Matthews said.
Plateau International founder and managing director Marco Rosa said travellers were prioritising authenticity and cultural depth and were willing to pay for it.
“Overall, travellers in 2026 are seeking authentic, deeply engaging experiences that blend comfort with cultural depth, and these Asia-Pacific locales reflect that shift,” Rosa said.
Indonesia remains a strong performer, with Bali and other islands continuing to draw repeat visitation as travellers explore regions beyond the classic hubs. The Sanchaya on Bintan Island, a one-hour ferry ride from Singapore, offers 29 villas and suites plus a private four-bedroom residence within a beachfront estate.
Japan continues to grow as a year-round destination, with travellers moving beyond peak cherry blossom and winter seasons toward regional festivals and heritage sites. B2B destination management company XPERISUS offers advisors curated small-group and individual itineraries, including hotel and ryokan stays and private festival access.
Fiji is performing well in the luxury segment, according to Rosa, helped by its proximity to Australia and New Zealand. Wakaya Private Island Resort & Spa, a 35-minute private air transfer from Nadi, has two family villas and 10 oceanfront bures.
Vietnam and Cambodia are also showing strong demand, particularly for river cruising. Lotus Cruises operates three boutique ships on four- and seven-night Mekong itineraries, with a fourth vessel, the 24-suite Mekong Symphony, due to launch in 2027.
Rosa said Plateau International’s portfolio was designed to give advisors access to lesser-known luxury operators.
“Our portfolio is deliberately curated to uncover exceptional experiences that aren’t always front-of-mind in the market, from boutique stays to immersive river cruises and specialist DMCs known for creating tailored itineraries,” he said.
