The coolcation trend shows no sign of slowing, as operators report continued Kiwi demand for experiences in Northern Europe and the Arctic.
50 Degrees North’s head of partner- ships for APAC Salla Ekman says Finland and Norway remain its most requested destinations from this market, adding that there’s also growing curiosity about Sweden, Denmark, Iceland an lesser-known Nordic regions.
“The market has become increasingly confident and knowledgeable, with travellers looking to spend longer in the region and explore beyond the traditional highlights,” she says.
Northern Lights holidays remain a major drawcard for Kiwis, she says, but as the season has become more popular, there’s also been a shift towards the Nordic autumn shoulder season. “[Kiwis] appreciate the smaller crowds, beautiful autumn colours and excellent opportunities to see the Northern Lights before the peak winter months.”
Summer travel, particularly to take in the Midnight Sun, is growing also in Northern Norway and Iceland. Ekman attributes this demand to the Nordic region’s combination of spectacular nature, authentic cultural experiences and a sustainability focus, as more travellers look beyond the traditional Euro hotspots. This trend is being seen at sea just as much as on land. Viking’s Northern Lights and Viking Homelands and itineraries continue to be popular with Kiwi travellers.
At the same time HX Expeditions’ sales director ANZ Amber Wilson is reporting ‘strong and growing’ interest from Kiwi trav- ellers. Antarctica continues to be incredibly popular, but Wilson says more Kiwis are now seeking Arctic expeditions, with Greenland having emerged as one of HX’s fastest-growing destinations.
For many Kiwi travellers, she adds the Nordic region represents the opposite side of the world, making it a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience landscapes, cultures and wildlife unlike anything found at home. As well as Greenland, Svalbard and Iceland are among the most in-demand Arctic destinations, particularly itineraries combing several regions in one cruise, she adds. “We’re also seeing exceptional demand for Arctic Norway during the winter months.”
