Top 3 Overseas Grad Trip Destinations Loved by College Students – “These Places” Are Even Hotter Than Japan

▲ The laid-back island scenery of Thailand is highly appealing. (Illustration / Photo by Reporter Li Zi-yi)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

As graduation season in June approaches, many college students are starting to plan their graduation trips. The well-known travel search engine “Skyscanner” recently not only announced the top three most popular overseas grad trip destinations for 2016 but also shared the best money-saving tips for students, allowing young travelers to have fun without breaking the bank and to create wonderful memories of their university years.

▲ Koh Chang, Thailand. (Photo / Provided by the Tourism Authority of Thailand)

Although Japan is a popular travel destination for Taiwanese tourists, according to Skyscanner’s findings, Thailand has become the best travel spot for 2016 graduation trips due to its rich history and unique culture, affordable prices, and numerous beautiful beaches and resorts.

Island hopping is also a highlight of Thai tourism. In addition to choosing islands based on personal interests—such as the more well-known Phuket and Koh Samui—you can also consider Ko Tao, ideal for diving and snorkeling, or the tranquil, paradise-like Ko Chang and Koh Nangyuan.

▲ The azure coastal scenery of Okinawa is a favorite among travelers. (Photo / Provided by the Okinawa Convention & Visitors Bureau)

Japan comes in second. In recent years, the rise of low-cost airlines has significantly reduced travel expenses to Japan, benefiting many students. For summer graduation trips, Okinawa is the top choice. Not only can you lazily reminisce with friends on the beach in the afternoon, but you can also take a glass-bottom boat ride at Cape Manzamo Undersea Park to admire colorful tropical fish and coral reefs through crystal-clear waters. For shoppers, there are also outlet malls to explore—Okinawa truly offers it all, making it a major draw.

The ever-evolving Universal Studios Japan is also a recommended destination. New attractions such as the recently opened Flying Dinosaur and new features in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter offer great opportunities to create memorable experiences with classmates.

▲ Gamcheon Culture Village, known as the Santorini of Korea. (Photo / File photo / Reporter Chen Zi-ying)

The third most popular overseas grad trip destination is South Korea. With the global popularity of Korean pop culture and a wide range of affordable cosmetics, as well as treasure-filled underground shopping streets, Seoul has long been a shopping paradise for young travelers.

As budget airlines gradually open more routes, Busan is also becoming a destination for Taiwanese travelers. Popular spots include Gamcheon Culture Village, known as the Santorini of Korea, and Haeundae, beloved by locals.

Skyscanner also recommends some money-saving travel tips for student travelers. When it comes to currency exchange, fluctuating exchange rates make “when is the best time to exchange currency?” a key concern for travelers. Skyscanner suggests that, based on past experience, it’s more cost-effective to exchange Korean won at local currency exchange shops; for Japanese yen, it’s advisable to spend time monitoring rates online and make exchanges when the rate is favorable; for Thai baht, the most reliable option is to go to local Super Rich currency exchange outlets.

As for the best time to book flights? According to Skyscanner data, the optimal time to book flights to Seoul is 29 weeks before departure, saving about 7% on fare; for Busan, booking 15 weeks in advance saves around 16%; for Okinawa, booking 7 weeks in advance can save up to about 8%; for Osaka, booking 13 weeks ahead offers savings of up to approximately 5%; and for Bangkok, booking 18 weeks before departure can save up to about 7%.