Expedia data reveals the trend, as Aurora Borealis visibility peaks
# Nearly half travelers dream of aurora chasing this year, eclipsing other experiences
# Canada, Finland and Norway boast the most popular destinations for aurora hunters
This year’s hotspots are looking a whole lot cooler with the rise of Northern Lights tourism, spurred by reports that the astronomical phenomenon will be extraordinarily visible in 2024. According to a survey commissioned by Expedia, nearly half (42%) of Americans will prioritize aurora chasing in the year ahead over other bucket list experiences. Traveling to see the Northern Lights is more in-demand than a visit to Egypt’s pyramids (36%) or a walk along the Great Wall of China (33%). Expedia searches are skyrocketing for winter trips to Northern Lights “capitals” like Lapland in Finland (+370%), Canada’s Churchill (110%) and Alta in Norway (+100%).
To help travelers plan, Expedia has released a Northern Lights Insider Guide packed with insights on trending destinations, booking hacks, photography tips and ideal itineraries.
“Planning your Northern Lights adventure might feel like navigating uncharted territory, but we’ve made it easy for travelers to make this trip a reality,” said Melanie Fish, head of Expedia Group Brands public relations. “From Canada to Norway, the free guide shows where to stay for under $160 a night or how to bundle a whole trip together for under $1,500. There’s even a photography guide to make sure you know how to capture the memory.” (PRNewswire)