"Gastronomic Pilgrimages" Drive 43% Surge in Valentine’s Bookings
Data released today by Trip.com Group reveals that "traveling for food" has officially become the primary motivator for international trips in early 2026. Global searches for "food travel" have jumped by 18%, while total food-related bookings have surged by 43% year-over-year.
As the world prepares for Valentine's Day, travelers are shunning traditional gift-giving in favor of "gastronomic adventures," with fine-dining hubs like Bangkok, Seoul, and Tokyo emerging as the top flight destinations for the upcoming long weekend.
This trend toward "culinary tourism" is particularly strong among Gen Z and Millennial travelers, who view "one-of-a-kind" dining experiences as a vital form of social and cultural currency. The report notes that searches for "Michelin Guide" resources and "expert-led food tours" are at an all-time high, as travelers look for "atmosphere-focused" venues and restaurants with specific views. In 2026, the "menu" is often the first thing booked, with flights and hotels selected specifically to support a hard-to-get reservation.
Markets in Singapore, South Korea, and the United Kingdom are seeing the highest growth in "experience-driven" dining intent. This has led to the rise of "Destination Dining," where travelers will cross multiple borders just to experience a specific chef's tasting menu or a localized "pop-up" event. The "Valentine's Day Surge" is a perfect example of this, as couples increasingly prioritize "shared flavors" and "sensory memories" over material luxury, driving a record-breaking month for the global hospitality sector.
To meet this demand, airlines and hotels are integrating "food-first" features into their booking platforms. Some luxury properties are now offering "Chef-Led Check-ins," where guests can discuss their dietary preferences and local market tours upon arrival. This level of "gourmet integration" is a direct response to the "Meaning-Making" trend identified in earlier 2026 reports, where travelers want to "participate" in the local culture through its food rather than just observing it from afar.
For the 2026 traveler, the "foodie" movement is about more than just a meal; it’s about "authenticity and storytelling." Trip.com’s data suggests that restaurants that highlight "farm-to-table" sourcing or traditional "heritage recipes" are outperforming generic international chains. As the Valentine's Day window opens, the most successful destinations will be those that can prove their "culinary credentials" to a global audience that is increasingly "hungry" for something new.
As of today, February 11, the "Gastronomy Surge" shows no signs of slowing down. For those looking to plan a romantic getaway or a "solo food tour" this spring, the advice is to "book the table first." In the 2026 travel landscape, the Michelin star is the new North Star, guiding millions toward the world's most delicious—and increasingly distant—corners.
