Travel Trends Related to Air Travel Time

Country	Rise in Popularity	Air Travel Time (from SYD)
Maldives	257%	14-19 hours, with 1 or more stops
Bangladesh	165%	12-14 hours with one stopover
Colombia	145%	25-30 hours, with 2 or more stops
Congo	145%	25-30 hours with multiple stops
Scotland	65%	23-25 hours with 1-2 stops
Saudi Arabia	65%	17-20 hours with 1 stop
Kuwait	58%	17-20 hours with 1 stop
Kosovo	58%	24-26 hours with 2 stops
Grenada	47%	28-35 hours with 2 stopovers
Ethiopia	46%	18-20 hours with 1 stop
Turkey	39%	18-20 hours with 1 stop
India	37%	12-14 hours with direct options
Iran	30%	16-18 hours with one stop
Fiji	22%	4-5 hours with direct options
North Korea	11%	18-20 hours with 1 stop
Country	Fall in Popularity	Air Travel Time (from SYD)
Cook Islands	97%	6 hours with direct options
China	95%	11-13 hours direct
Switzerland	91%	23-25 hours with 1-2 stops
Czechia	86%	22-25 hours with 1 stop
Hong Kong	85%	9-10 hours direct
Finland	85%	23-25 hours with 1 stop
Tonga	84%	5 hours direct
Myanmar	76%	12-14 hours with 1 stop
Nauru	75%	5-6 hours direct
Kenya	74%	20-22 hours with 1-2 stops
Sudan	74%	20-22 hours with 1 stop
Brunei	72%	8-9 hours with 1 stop
USA	65%	14-15 hours direct
Peru	63%	20-23 hours with 1-2 stops
Ireland	61%	23-25 hours with 1 stop
South Africa	61%	14-16 hours with 1 stop

 

Air travel time is an important consideration for older travellers, as long flights can be exhausting. However, the appeal of the destination, particularly for those with the financial means to travel comfortably, often outweighs the inconvenience of long journeys. Here are some insights based on the air travel times from Sydney International Airport to popular and declining destinations.

Rising in Popularity

Long-Haul Destinations with Multiple Stops Still Popular

Colombia (+145%) and Congo (+145%) are both challenging to reach, with air travel times of 25-30 hours and multiple stopovers. Yet, these destinations are seeing a rise in popularity, suggesting that adventurous travellers are willing to endure long journeys for the chance to explore these less-travelled regions.

Grenada (+47%) also falls into this category, with a travel time of 28-35 hours and two stopovers. Despite the long journey, older travellers may be attracted by its secluded beaches and relaxed atmosphere.

Moderately Long Flights with One Stop

Saudi Arabia (+65%), Kuwait (+58%), Turkey (+39%), and Ethiopia (+46%) all require 17-20 hours of travel with one stopover. While long, these flights are manageable, especially for travellers drawn by the historical, cultural, or natural appeal of these regions.

Scotland (+65%) requires 23-25 hours with 1-2 stops, but it remains a popular destination due to its landscapes and history, even for older travellers willing to make the long trip.

Direct or Shorter Flights

India (+37%) offers direct flights from Sydney in 12-14 hours, making it a relatively easy long-haul destination. Its accessibility likely contributes to its continued popularity among older travellers.

Fiji (+22%) is only a 4–5-hour direct flight, which makes it a quick and convenient escape for older Australians seeking a tropical getaway.

Falling in Popularity

Shorter Flights but Falling Interest

Despite being only 6 hours away with direct flights, the Cook Islands (-97%) are seeing a sharp decline. This suggests that proximity alone is not enough to maintain interest, as travellers might be seeking newer or less familiar destinations.

Tonga (-84%) and Nauru (-75%) are also close, with travel times of 5-6 hours. The drop in popularity for these Pacific Island nations indicates that even short flights aren't attracting enough interest.

Moderately Long Flights Losing Appeal

China (-95%), with a 11–13-hour direct flight from Sydney, is seeing a decline, likely due to political and travel restrictions rather than the flight time itself. Myanmar (-76%) faces similar issues despite its 12–14-hour travel time with one stop.

Brunei (-72%) offers an 8–9-hour flight with one stop, but interest seems to be fading, possibly due to limited tourist offerings compared to nearby Southeast Asian destinations.

Longer Flights Losing Popularity

Many destinations requiring 20-25 hours of travel with one or two stopovers are losing appeal. These include Switzerland (-91%), Czechia (-86%), Finland (-85%), Ireland (-61%), and Morocco (-60%). While these countries offer rich cultural and historical experiences, the combination of long travel times and perhaps familiarity may be steering older travellers elsewhere.

USA (-65%) offers 14–15-hour direct flights, but the decline in popularity could be due to over-commercialisation or travellers seeking less predictable destinations.

Peru (-63%) and South Africa (-61%) both require 20-23 hours of travel with one or two stopovers. Despite their fascinating landscapes and wildlife, the lengthy flights may be deterring some older travellers.

Chile (-53%) has a 16–18-hour flight with one stop, and while it’s still attracting some interest, the distance may be making other destinations more appealing.

Travel Trends Concerning the Purchasing Power of the AUD

Country	Rise in Popularity	AUD Exchange Rate
Maldives	257%	10.25 MVR
Bangladesh	165%	80.06 BDT
Colombia	145%	2,864.81 COP
Congo	145%	396.27 XOF
Scotland	65%	0.51 GBP
Saudi Arabia	65%	2.51 SAR
Kuwait	58%	0.20 KD
Kosovo	58%	0.61 EUR
Grenada	47%	1.80 XCD
Ethiopia	46%	76.31 ETB
Turkey	39%	22.69 TRY
India	37%	56.09 INR
Iran	30%	28,115.40 IRR
Fiji	22%	1.48 FJD
North Korea	11%	602.31 KPW
Country	Fall in Popularity	AUD Exchange Rate
Cook Islands	97%	1.09 NZD
China	95%	4.76 CNY
Switzerland	91%	0.57 CHF
Czechia	86%	15.22 CZK
Hong Kong	85%	5.21 HKD
Finland	85%	0.61 EUR
Tonga	84%	1.56 TOP
Myanmar	76%	1,400.85 MMK
Nauru	75%	1 AUD
Kenya	74%	86.46 KES
Sudan	74%	401.67 SDG
Brunei	72%	0.87 BND
USA	65%	0.67 USD
Peru	63%	2.55 PEN
Ireland	61%	0.61 EUR
South Africa	61%	12.02 ZAR
Morocco	60%	6.54 MAD
Mauritius	57%	30.80 MUR
Jordan	57%	0.47 JOD
Chile	53%	629.19 CLP

Source: Google Finance

The purchasing power of the Australian dollar (AUD) can influence travel decisions, especially for older travellers looking to get the most value from their trips. A higher exchange rate means the AUD is stronger, making goods and services more affordable in the destination country. Here are key insights based on the AUD purchasing power:

Rising in Popularity

Destinations Where the AUD is Very Strong

Iran (+30%) stands out with an incredible exchange rate of 28,115.40 IRR to 1 AUD. This makes it extremely affordable for Australian travellers and contributes to its continued appeal despite political challenges.

Colombia (+145%) and Congo (+145%) offer 2,864.81 COP and 396.27 XOF per AUD, respectively. The high purchasing power makes these countries attractive for adventurous tourists, as they can enjoy more for their money in terms of accommodation, food, and experiences.

Bangladesh (+165%) and Ethiopia (+46%) also have favourable rates of 80.06 BDT and 76.31 ETB per AUD. This affordability, combined with the cultural and historical attractions of these countries, likely explains their rise in popularity.

Moderate Purchasing Power

Turkey (+39%) offers 22.69 TRY per AUD, making it a relatively affordable destination compared to Western Europe. The rising exchange rate could be a factor in the increase in popularity.

India (+37%) offers 56.09 INR per AUD, making it a great value-for-money destination. The favourable exchange rate allows older travellers to stretch their dollars further when visiting famous cultural and natural landmarks.

Saudi Arabia (+65%) and Grenada (+47%) provide 2.51 SAR and 1.80 XCD per AUD, making them moderately affordable for Australians.

Lower Purchasing Power but Still Popular

Despite the AUD purchasing only 0.51 GBP in Scotland (+65%), the country remains popular. Scotland’s appeal may outweigh the weaker purchasing power, as many older travellers are drawn to its history and landscapes, even if it’s a bit more expensive.

Similarly, Kuwait (+58%, 0.20 KD) and Kosovo (+58%, 0.61 EUR) have relatively low purchasing power, but their cultural and historical appeal may still be driving interest.

Affordable Nearby Destinations

Fiji (+22%), with an exchange rate of 1.48 FJD per AUD, remains a popular and relatively affordable nearby destination for Australians looking for a tropical getaway.

Falling in Popularity

Destinations with Lower Purchasing Power

Switzerland (-91%) and Czechia (-86%) offer 0.57 CHF and 15.22 CZK per AUD, respectively, making them more expensive for Australian travellers. This reduced affordability might be contributing to their decline in popularity, especially as older tourists seek better value destinations.

Ireland (-61%, 0.61 EUR) and Finland (-85%, 0.61 EUR) also have low purchasing power for Australians, which might make these European countries less appealing for those looking to make their money go further.

Destinations with High Purchasing Power but Declining

Myanmar (-76%) offers an impressive exchange rate of 1,400.85 MMK per AUD, but its decline in popularity is likely due to political instability rather than affordability.

Sudan (-74%), with 401.67 SDG per AUD, is very affordable but likely losing appeal due to safety concerns and political unrest, despite the strong value of the Australian dollar there.

Kenya (-74%) and South Africa (-61%) offer 86.46 KES and 12.02 ZAR per AUD, which make them relatively affordable, but other factors such as safety concerns or competition from other African destinations may be playing a role in their decline.

Close Pacific Destinations Losing Ground

Cook Islands (-97%, 1.09 NZD) and Nauru (-75%, 1 AUD) are seeing major declines in popularity, despite having moderate purchasing power for Australians. Their proximity and ease of access may not be enough to sustain interest, as travellers might be looking for more diverse experiences elsewhere.

Tonga (-84%) offers 1.56 TOP per AUD, making it affordable, but the decline in popularity may suggest that travellers are seeking alternatives to the traditional island holiday.

North America’s Decline

The USA (-65%) offers 0.67 USD per AUD, making it relatively expensive compared to other destinations. The exchange rate, coupled with the saturation of mainstream tourist attractions, may explain why older travellers are opting for other, more affordable destinations.

Travel Trends Related to Ease of Entry

Country	Rise in Popularity	AUD Exchange Rate
Maldives	257%	Visa on arrival
Bangladesh	165%	Visa required to enter
Colombia	145%	No visa required if you plan to stay for 90 days or less
Congo	145%	No data
Scotland	65%	No visa required if you plan to stay for 180 days or less
Saudi Arabia	65%	Apply online or on arrival
Kuwait	58%	Need e-visa or visa on arrival to enter
Kosovo	58%	No visa required if you plan to stay for 90 days or less
Grenada	47%	No visa required
Ethiopia	46%	Visa required to enter
Turkey	39%	Visa required to enter if you're staying for less than 90 days in a 180-day period
India	37%	Visa required to enter
Iran	30%	Visa required to enter
Fiji	22%	No visa required
North Korea	11%	Visa required to enter, must travel to China to obtain visa
Country	Fall in Popularity	Ease of Entry
Cook Islands	97%	Authorities will issue a 31-day visitor visa on arrival. A visitor visa can be extended for an additional 62 days on application.
China	95%	No visa required for 15 days
Switzerland	91%	No visa required. Australians can travel visa-free in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in a 180-day period.
Czechia	86%	No visa required. Australians can travel visa-free in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in a 180-day period.
Hong Kong	85%	You generally won't need a tourist visa if you stay less than 90 days.
Finland	85%	No visa required. Australians can travel visa-free in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in a 180-day period.
Tonga	84%	Visa on arrival
Myanmar	76%	Visa required to enter
Nauru	75%	Visa required to enter
Kenya	74%	Online travel authorisation required
Sudan	74%	Visa required to enter
Brunei	72%	E-Arrival Card required to enter
USA	65%	Visa or Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) required to enter
Peru	63%	Visa not required. You can get a permit to stay for up to 90 days when you arrive.
Ireland	61%	Visa not required. You may be granted a tourist visa for up to 90 days on arrival, as determined by the immigration officer.
South Africa	61%	No visa required. You don't need a visa if you're visiting South Africa for tourism purposes for up to 90 days.
Morocco	60%	You don't need a visa if you're travelling to Morocco for less than 3 months.
Mauritius	57%	If you're staying less than 60 days, you can get a 'free of charge visa' on arrival.
Jordan	57%	Visa required to enter
Chile	53%	Visa required to enter

Source: Smartraveller

Ease of entry is an important factor for many travellers, especially older tourists who prefer hassle-free travel. Countries with easier entry requirements, such as visa-free access or visas on arrival, are generally more appealing. Here's a breakdown of how ease of entry may be influencing the rise and fall in popularity of different destinations:

Rising in Popularity

No Visa Required or Visa on Arrival

Countries like Maldives (+257%), Colombia (+145%), Scotland (+65%), and Kosovo (+58%) do not require visas or offer visa-on-arrival options for Australians. This ease of entry likely contributes to their rising popularity, as older tourists often prefer destinations with fewer bureaucratic hurdles.

Grenada (+47%) and Fiji (+22%) offer visa-free entry, making them convenient options for travellers seeking quick and stress-free vacations.

E-Visa or Simple Application Processes

Saudi Arabia (+65%) and Kuwait (+58%) have streamlined their entry processes with e-visas or visas on arrival, making them more accessible to tourists. This simplification of visa requirements could be a factor behind their rising popularity.

Turkey (+39%) also requires a visa, but its straightforward process for short-term stays makes it manageable for tourists.

More Difficult Entry but Still Gaining Popularity

India (+37%), Iran (+30%), and Ethiopia (+46%) all require visas, but these countries remain popular. Travellers may be willing to deal with visa applications because of the rich experiences these destinations offer.

North Korea (+11%) remains a complex destination to enter, as travellers must go through China to obtain a visa. However, its rising popularity could be attributed to its intrigue for those seeking rare travel experiences.

Falling in Popularity

Easy Entry but Falling Interest

Cook Islands (-97%) and South Africa (-61%) both offer visa-free entry or visas on arrival, yet they are seeing a decline in popularity. This suggests that even with easy access, travellers may be looking for more novel or exciting destinations.

Switzerland (-91%), Czechia (-86%), Ireland (-61%), and other Schengen countries allow Australians to visit without a visa for up to 90 days, but their popularity is decreasing. This decline could indicate a shift in interest away from traditional European destinations.

Visa-Free or Simple Entry

China (-95%) allows Australians to visit for 15 days without a visa, and Hong Kong (-85%) doesn’t require a tourist visa for stays under 90 days. Despite this, both destinations are losing appeal, likely due to political and travel restrictions rather than entry barriers.

Peru (-63%) and Morocco (-60%) both allow tourists to enter without a visa for stays under 90 days, yet their popularity is also declining. This may be due to increased competition from other emerging travel destinations.

Visa Required and Falling in Popularity

Countries like Myanmar (-76%), Sudan (-74%), and Nauru (-75%) require visas, and their popularity is dropping. This suggests that complicated visa processes, combined with political or safety concerns, may be discouraging tourists.

Jordan (-57%) and Chile (-53%) also require visas, which might be a factor contributing to their decline, as easier alternatives are available in other regions.

E-Visas or Online Authorisation but Declining

Brunei (-72%) and the USA (-65%) require either an e-visa or an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) application, which, while not complicated, may still deter some tourists looking for destinations with simpler entry procedures.

Kenya (-74%) requires an online travel authorisation, and while not difficult to obtain, it may add enough friction to make travellers look for other options.

Travel Trends Related to Health Index Scores

Country	Rise in Popularity	Health Index Score
Maldives	257%	No data
Bangladesh	165%	67.4
Colombia	145%	77.8
Congo	145%	54.1
Scotland	65%	78.3
Saudi Arabia	65%	75.3
Kuwait	58%	77.3
Kosovo	58%	No data
Grenada	47%	No data
Ethiopia	46%	60.9
Turkey	39%	74.2
India	37%	66.2
Iran	30%	74.9
Fiji	22%	No data
North Korea	11%	No data
Country	Fall in Popularity	Health Index Score
Cook Islands	97%	No data
China	95%	83.1
Switzerland	91%	82.1
Czechia	86%	79.5
Hong Kong	85%	81.3
Finland	85%	81.2
Tonga	84%	No Data
Myanmar	76%	66.7
Nauru	75%	No Data
Kenya	74%	65.2
Sudan	74%	60.5
Brunei	72%	No Data
USA	65%	73.3
Peru	63%	75.8
Ireland	61%	80
South Africa	61%	59.9
Morocco	60%	71.2
Mauritius	57%	71.9
Jordan	57%	68.9
Chile	53%	76.1

Source: Statista

Health concerns are often a priority for older travellers, and destinations with better healthcare systems or easier access to medical services are naturally more attractive. Below is a breakdown of health-related data, including health index scores from Statista and health advice provided by Smartraveller.

Rising in Popularity

Destinations with Reasonable Health Index Scores

Colombia (+145%) and Saudi Arabia (+65%) both have solid health index scores of 77.8 and 75.3 respectively. Though there are some concerns about insect-borne diseases and altitude sickness in Colombia, travellers may find comfort in the reasonable standard of private hospitals in major cities.

Scotland (+65%, 78.3) benefits from the UK's strong healthcare system, including a reciprocal healthcare agreement with Australia, which allows for some free treatments. This, combined with the general accessibility to high-quality medical care, makes Scotland an appealing destination.

Kuwait (+58%) has a health index score of 77.3. However, the quality of public hospitals may vary for foreigners, meaning some travellers could be required to use private care or face possible medical evacuation.

Destinations with Moderate Healthcare but Increasing Popularity

Turkey (+39%, 74.2) offers relatively good healthcare, with Smartraveller advising caution around waterborne and insect-borne diseases. While there are some risks, Turkey’s health index score is decent and reflects a moderate level of healthcare facilities.

India (+37%, 66.2) has a lower health index but continues to rise in popularity. Major cities have adequate healthcare services, but rural areas may present challenges, including the need for medical evacuation. Many travellers likely find the cultural and historical appeal outweighs the health risks.

Lower Health Index but Still Gaining Popularity

Ethiopia (+46%, 60.9) and Bangladesh (+165%, 67.4) both have lower health index scores, which reflects the limited availability of quality healthcare services. Travellers to these countries are warned about insect-borne diseases and poor medical facilities. However, the adventurous spirit of older travellers may drive the interest, despite these health risks.

Iran (+30%, 74.9) has a reasonable health index, but significant pollution, insect-borne diseases, and foodborne illnesses pose challenges. Older travellers might be drawn to Iran for its cultural attractions despite these issues.

Destinations with Limited Data

Maldives (+257%), Kosovo (+58%), and Grenada (+47%) lack health index data. However, the Maldives has limited medical facilities, meaning medical evacuation could be necessary in case of serious illness. The rising popularity could be due to the appeal of these destinations’ scenic beauty rather than their healthcare offerings.

Fiji (+22%) also lacks data but is known for having limited medical facilities, with serious cases often requiring evacuation to Australia.

Falling in Popularity

Strong Health Index but Declining Popularity

China (-95%, 83.1) and Switzerland (-91%, 82.1) both have high health index scores, reflecting strong healthcare systems. However, political concerns and travel restrictions may be driving the decline in popularity rather than healthcare access.

Finland (-85%, 81.2) and Hong Kong (-85%, 81.3) also boast high health index scores but are seeing a drop in interest. Hong Kong's political unrest and Finland's far location might explain their declining popularity, despite solid healthcare.

Moderate Healthcare but Declining Popularity

USA (-65%, 73.3) has a decent health index score, but healthcare costs are extremely high. Medical emergencies can lead to bank-breaking expenses, and this may deter some older travellers, despite the appeal of visiting the USA.

Peru (-63%, 75.8) also offers moderate healthcare but presents risks such as altitude sickness and widespread mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue. This could be making it less attractive for older tourists, who might prefer destinations with fewer health risks.

Lower Health Index and Declining Popularity

Kenya (-74%, 65.2) and Sudan (-74%, 60.5) both have lower health index scores and a high risk of diseases like malaria and yellow fever. This likely contributes to their drop in popularity, as older travellers may prioritise destinations with better healthcare infrastructure and fewer health concerns.

South Africa (-61%, 59.9) has similar issues, with high HIV/AIDS infection rates and insect-borne diseases. Although its health index is slightly better than Kenya and Sudan, it still may not meet the expectations of older tourists seeking safer and healthier travel environments.

Destinations with Limited Data but Falling Popularity

Cook Islands (-97%) and Tonga (-84%) don’t have health index scores available, but both destinations have limited healthcare facilities, often requiring medical evacuation for serious cases. This might explain the drop in popularity, as tourists may prefer destinations with better access to healthcare.

Myanmar (-76%, 66.7) has a moderate health index but is facing severe healthcare shortages due to political instability, further contributing to its decline in popularity.

Health concerns play an important role in travel decisions, particularly for older tourists. Destinations with higher health index scores, such as Scotland, Colombia, and Saudi Arabia, are seeing increases in popularity, likely because travellers feel more secure knowing they can access reasonable healthcare if needed. On the other hand, countries with lower health index scores or inadequate healthcare facilities, such as Kenya, Sudan, and Ethiopia, are either seeing a decline in interest or are facing challenges in attracting cautious travellers. While many older tourists are still willing to travel to less-developed areas, the need for accessible and quality healthcare remains a critical factor in their travel choices.

Travel Trends Related to Health Index Scores

Country	Rise in Popularity	Crime Index Number	Safety Index Number
Maldives	257%	55.2	44.8
Bangladesh	165%	62.5	37.5
Colombia	145%	No data	No data
Congo	145%	No data	No data
Scotland	65%	46.9	53.1
Saudi Arabia	65%	24.3	75.7
Kuwait	58%	32.6	67.4
Kosovo	58%	No data	No data
Grenada	47%	No data	No data
Ethiopia	46%	51.4	48.6
Turkey	39%	40.2	59.8
India	37%	44.4	55.6
Iran	30%	49.8	50.2
Fiji	22%	56.7	43.3
North Korea	11%	50.7	49.3
Country	Fall in Popularity	Crime Index Number	Safety Index Number
Cook Islands	97%	No data	No Data
China	95%	60.8	39.2
Switzerland	91%	24.9	75.1
Czechia	86%	26.8	73.2
Hong Kong	85%	21.7	78.3
Finland	85%	26.5	73.5
Tonga	84%	No Data	No Data
Myanmar	76%	50	50
Nauru	75%	No Data	No Data
Kenya	74%	56.8	43.2
Sudan	74%	45.5	54.5
Brunei	72%	29.2	70.8
USA	65%	49.2	50.8
Peru	63%	67.5	32.5
Ireland	61%	46.1	53.9
South Africa	61%	75.5	24.5
Morocco	60%	47.1	52.9
Mauritius	57%	48.1	51.9
Jordan	57%	40.7	59.3
Chile	53%	25.9	74.2

Source: World Population Review

Safety is a major consideration for older travellers when visiting foreign countries. The data from World Population Review provides insights into crime rates and safety levels, helping to explain why some destinations are rising or falling in popularity among Australian tourists aged 55 and over. Here’s a breakdown of the crime index and safety index data and its possible impact on travel trends.

Rising in Popularity

Relatively Safe Destinations

Saudi Arabia (+65%) has a low crime index of 24.3 and a high safety index of 75.7, making it one of the safer destinations on the list. The high level of safety may contribute to its rise in popularity, particularly for older travellers who prioritise personal security.

Kuwait (+58%) also ranks well in terms of safety with a crime index of 32.6 and a safety index of 67.4. This strong safety rating likely makes Kuwait a more attractive destination for older tourists.

Turkey (+39%) has a moderate crime index of 40.2 and a safety index of 59.8. Though it isn't among the safest countries, it offers a relatively stable environment, which may appeal to adventurous yet cautious travellers.

Moderate Safety Levels

Scotland (+65%, 46.9 crime index, 53.1 safety index) and India (+37%, 44.4 crime index, 55.6 safety index) offer moderate safety levels. While not the safest countries on the list, they still draw interest due to their cultural appeal and infrastructure. Older tourists may view these destinations as reasonably safe but could exercise more caution in crowded areas to avoid petty crimes like pickpocketing.

Iran (+30%) has a crime index of 49.8 and a safety index of 50.2, placing it in the middle range. Though political concerns may deter some travellers, those interested in historical and religious sites might find the safety level acceptable.

Higher Crime Levels

Maldives (+257%, 55.2 crime index, 44.8 safety index) and Fiji (+22%, 56.7 crime index, 43.3 safety index) both show slightly higher crime rates. Despite these figures, their appeal as beach destinations likely overshadows concerns about crime, especially when staying in tourist areas. Travellers might need to be cautious of petty theft or scams but are still willing to visit for the relaxing atmosphere.

Ethiopia (+46%, 51.4 crime index, 48.6 safety index) is another destination where crime levels are relatively high, but older travellers may be drawn to its historical and cultural richness, accepting a bit more risk in exchange for unique experiences.

Unknown Data but Rising Interest

Colombia (+145%) has no available crime and safety data in this report, but its rise in popularity suggests that despite perceived risks, adventurous travellers may still be drawn here for wildlife experiences. However, it’s important to note that this country is known for safety concerns, including risks of theft, kidnapping, and violence in certain areas.

Falling in Popularity

Safe Destinations but Declining Popularity

Hong Kong (-85%, 21.7 crime index, 78.3 safety index) and Switzerland (-91%, 24.9 crime index, 75.1 safety index) are among the safest destinations on the list. Despite their excellent safety records, they are losing popularity. In Hong Kong’s case, political unrest and travel restrictions due to COVID-19 may explain the drop. For Switzerland, travellers may be shifting towards more affordable or exotic destinations, as the country is known for being expensive.

Finland (-85%, 26.5 crime index, 73.5 safety index) and Czechia (-86%, 26.8 crime index, 73.2 safety index) also boast strong safety records but are seeing declines. This could suggest that older tourists are moving away from traditional European destinations, seeking out newer, less commercialised spots.

Moderate to High Crime Levels and Falling Popularity

USA (-65%) has a moderate crime index of 49.2 and a safety index of 50.8. Though its safety score is not alarming, factors like mass shootings, violent crime, and high healthcare costs could make it less appealing for cautious older tourists.

Peru (-63%, 67.5 crime index, 32.5 safety index) stands out with one of the highest crime index scores on the list. High levels of crime, including theft and occasional violent crimes, may deter older travellers despite Peru’s cultural richness and natural beauty.

South Africa (-61%) has the highest crime index of 75.5 and the lowest safety index of 24.5. The country's well-known crime issues, including robbery and violent crime, make it a risky destination, which may explain its falling popularity among older tourists.

Political Instability and Crime Concerns

Myanmar (-76%, 50.0 crime index, 50.0 safety index) and Kenya (-74%, 56.8 crime index, 43.2 safety index) have moderate to high crime levels. Both countries have faced political instability and security issues, which likely contribute to their decline in popularity, as older travellers prefer safer and more stable environments.

Other Declining Destinations

Chile (-53%) and Brunei (-72%) have relatively low crime indices of 25.8 and 29.2, with safety indices of 74.2 and 70.8. Their decline in popularity could be attributed to factors other than safety, such as competition from other more dynamic destinations or changing tourist preferences.

Travel Trends Related to Connectivity and Communication Scores

Country	Rise in Popularity	Connectivity and Communication Score
Maldives	257%	86
Bangladesh	165%	39
Colombia	145%	73
Congo	145%	9
Scotland	65%	97
Saudi Arabia	65%	100
Kuwait	58%	100
Kosovo	58%	89
Grenada	47%	78
Ethiopia	46%	17
Turkey	39%	83
India	37%	46
Iran	30%	79
Fiji	22%	88
North Korea	11%	0
Country	Fall in Popularity	Connectivity and Communication Score
Cook Islands	97%	No Data
China	95%	76
Switzerland	91%	96
Czechia	86%	85
Hong Kong	85%	96
Finland	85%	93
Tonga	84%	72
Myanmar	76%	44
Nauru	75%	84
Kenya	74%	29
Sudan	74%	28
Brunei	72%	98
USA	65%	92
Peru	63%	75
Ireland	61%	95
South Africa	61%	72
Morocco	60%	88
Mauritius	57%	68
Jordan	57%	86
Chile	53%	90

Source: World Bank

In today's world, connectivity and communication are essential for both safety and convenience while travelling, especially for older tourists who may want to stay in touch with family and access emergency services. However, there are still destinations where connectivity might be compromised, particularly in remote or nature-heavy locations, which some travellers might expect or even appreciate as part of a "digital detox" experience. Here's a breakdown of how connectivity impacts the rising and falling popularity of various destinations.

Rising in Popularity

Highly Connected Destinations

Saudi Arabia (+65%) and Kuwait (+58%) both score 100, meaning they have exceptional connectivity. This makes these countries highly appealing for older travellers who value staying connected for safety, navigation, and communication. The robust infrastructure in these regions ensures that even in urban or remote areas, visitors can easily access services.

Scotland (+65%, 97) and Kosovo (+58%, 89) also rank high in connectivity, which may contribute to their appeal. Being able to navigate cities or rural areas easily with reliable internet and communication tools provides peace of mind for older tourists, which could explain their rising popularity.

Fiji (+22%, 88) also offers great connectivity despite being an island destination. This high score is likely a comfort to tourists who may want to enjoy a remote beach getaway without being completely disconnected from the outside world.

Moderately Connected but Still Popular

Turkey (+39%, 83) and Iran (+30%, 79) offer reasonably high connectivity, ensuring that visitors can access basic communication services, particularly in cities and tourist-heavy regions. While rural areas might be less connected, these scores indicate that travellers can still stay connected in most places.

Grenada (+47%, 78) provides decent connectivity for tourists. Despite being a smaller island nation, this score indicates that internet and communication services are well developed, making it easier for tourists to explore with access to maps, services, and emergency contacts.

Lower Connectivity but Still Rising

India (+37%, 46) and Bangladesh (+165%, 39) have moderate connectivity scores, which may reflect the divide between urban and rural areas. While major cities are well connected, more remote areas may offer limited services. Despite this, tourists continue to flock to these countries for their rich cultural heritage, even if they are willing to sacrifice some connectivity.

Ethiopia (+46%, 17) and Congo (+145%, 9) rank low in connectivity, particularly in rural or nature-heavy regions. However, older travellers drawn to these destinations may be seeking experiences in nature or remote locations, such as safaris or cultural explorations, where they accept or even enjoy being disconnected from the digital world.

North Korea (+11%, 0) has no real connectivity for foreign tourists, with internet and communication highly restricted. This could be part of the allure for those interested in its historical and political uniqueness, though travellers must be prepared for very limited digital access.

Falling in Popularity

Highly Connected but Losing Appeal

China (-95%, 76), Switzerland (-91%, 96), Czechia (-86%, 85), and Hong Kong (-85%, 96) are all highly connected destinations but are seeing a decline in popularity. While connectivity isn’t an issue in these locations, other factors such as political unrest (in the case of Hong Kong), travel restrictions, or a shift in travel preferences may explain why these traditionally popular countries are falling out of favour.

USA (-65%, 92) offers excellent connectivity, yet its decline in popularity might be due to factors like cost, safety concerns, or a preference for less commercialised or more exotic locations.

Moderately Connected Destinations

Peru (-63%, 75) and South Africa (-61%, 72) offer moderate levels of connectivity, sufficient for tourists to stay in touch and navigate their surroundings. However, their falling popularity could be related to safety concerns or health risks that overshadow the importance of connectivity.

Mauritius (-57%, 68) and Morocco (-60%, 88) are also moderately connected, but the falling interest in these locations suggests that other factors—such as safety or cost—may be influencing travellers’ decisions more than connectivity.

Low Connectivity and Declining Popularity

Myanmar (-76%, 44) and Kenya (-74%, 29) have low connectivity scores, which could be contributing to their decline in popularity. In these regions, political instability and safety concerns, coupled with limited communication services, likely deter older travellers who value staying connected for security reasons.

Sudan (-74%, 28) faces similar issues, with low connectivity likely compounding the difficulties posed by its political instability and safety risks. Older tourists may avoid this destination because of the lack of reliable services.

Unknown Connectivity Scores

Cook Islands, Tonga, and Nauru do not have available data, but their decline in popularity may be due to other factors such as limited infrastructure, high travel costs, or the appeal of newer destinations. Connectivity may not be a primary concern for travellers to these remote islands, but its absence could be one of the reasons for their decreasing appeal.

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