When life feels busy and the world feels unpredictable, the idea of a holiday can start to feel just that little bit too far away. Too much planning. Too much effort. Something to think about later.
But new booking insights from Minor Hotels* reveal Australians aren’t giving up on travel – they’re simply rethinking it. And the takeaway is clear: the holiday Australians are craving is already closer than they think, with hundreds of locations right on their doorstep.
Instead of long-haul plans and logistical headaches, travellers are opting for easy, short-haul getaways that deliver maximum payoff with minimal effort; focusing on quick resets rather than complicated itineraries.
Dubbed the rise of “comfort travel,” this mindset isn’t about scaling back – it’s about choosing trips that are simple, flexible and instantly rewarding, but still rich in experiences.
From vibrant cities to coastal escapes, the latest data from Minor Hotels highlights the top five in-demand destinations that are leading the charge:
- Adelaide: Australia’s best-kept secret (That’s no longer a secret)
Once underrated, Adelaide is having a moment – luring travellers with its unbeatable mix of wine, festivals and a compact, easy-to-explore city vibe. - Gold Coast: The go-to for guaranteed good times
Sun, surf and zero surprises – the Gold Coast continues to deliver exactly what Aussies want right now: effortless, feel-good escapes that cater to families, couples and groups alike. - Melbourne: The culture fix we keep can’t get enough of
Whether it’s major events, hidden bars or world-class dining, Melbourne’s magnetic pull lies in its ability to offer something new every single visit. - Brisbane: The easy escape on the rise
With its laidback energy, warm weather and ever-evolving food scene, Brisbane is fast becoming the “no-fuss” city break Australians are gravitating towards. - Broome: The bucket list destination closer than you think
For those craving something truly different, bucket list destination Broome delivers – with dramatic landscapes, rich history and iconic sunsets that rival anywhere in the world, all without leaving Australia.
The Rise of Micro-Escapes
The data also points to a continued preference for shorter, more frequent trips, with the average length of stay sitting between 2.3 and 2.9 nights across all top destinations, an average of 2-3 nights.
This reflects a growing trend of Australians maximising their time off with micro-escapes that are easy to plan, cost-effective and deliver instant reward.
Short, sharp getaways designed to fit around busy schedules, tighter budgets and a growing reluctance to burn annual leave on long-haul trips. Think two-night resets, midweek check-ins and spontaneous long weekends that prove travellers don’t have to go far to truly get away.
Comfort Without Compromise
Minor Hotels says the shift isn’t about scaling back travel ambitions – it’s about redefining them.
“Australians are still prioritising travel, but they’re being more considered in how and where they go,” says Craig Hooley, Chief Operating Officer at Minor Hotels Australasia.
“We’re seeing a strong appetite for destinations closer to home that feel safe and accessible, while still offering memorable, high-quality experiences, and Australia delivers that in spades.”
Whether it’s a culture hit in Melbourne, sunshine on the Gold Coast or a once-in-a-lifetime escape to Broome, one thing is clear, you don’t need to go far to get away right now.
*Minor Hotels booking data across Australian properties, based on stays from January–December 2025
Your Next Holiday is Closer Than You Think
The Deal: Stay 2 nights, Save 20% | Stay 2 nights save 20% plus an extra 10% for DISCOVERY Members
- The Dates: 7 April – 21 April 2026.
- The Travel Period: Valid for stays between 25 March – 29 September 2026
- Leading prices:
- Oaks Adelaide Horizons Suites – available from $143 p/n
- Oaks Gold Coast Hotel – available from $199 p/n
- Oaks Melbourne on Collins Suites – available from $135 p/n
- Oaks Brisbane Lexicon Suites – available from $251 p/n
