The hotel and aviation sectors are seeing a significant spike in bookings ahead of Coldplay’s “Music of the Spheres World Tour” which is starting in Melbourne tomorrow.
New data from Webjet reveals there has been a 47 per cent spike in flight bookings to Melbourne and 44 per cent to Sydney in line with the band’s tour dates.
“The travel buzz in line with Coldplay’s shows highlights the rise of ‘tour tourism,’ as fans embrace concerts as the ultimate excuse for a getaway,” Webjet Group CEO Katrina Barry said.
“Webjet saw this trend take off with Taylor Swift’s tour earlier this year, and it’s clear it’s only gaining steam. As concerts increasingly become gateways to explore domestic hotspots, we’re excited to see ‘tour tourism’ build even more momentum into 2025 and beyond.”
Hotel bookings
Sydney hotel bookings up by 125 per cent ahead of the November concerts. Average room rates have also risen by 30 per cent compared to last year.
“The Coldplay ‘Music of the Spheres’ tour is creating a major opportunity for the hospitality sector, especially in cities like Sydney and Auckland, where the upcoming concerts have already spurred a 125 per cent surge in hotel bookings,” Agilysys Regional Director for AU & NZ, Craig Dennington, said.
“The heightened demand highlights not only the band’s immense popularity but also the far-reaching economic benefits that large-scale events can bring to local businesses, such as hotels, restaurants, and transportation providers.
“To truly capitalise on this demand, hotels need to focus on delivering value that goes beyond inflated prices. While raising rates in response to increased demand is understandable – Sydney’s average daily rate is already up by 30 per cent compared to last year – guests need to feel that the experience is worth the cost. By prioritising service, amenities, and unique touches, hotels can turn short-term gains into long-term loyalty, encouraging repeat visits even after the concert buzz fades.
“Creating memorable stays during high-demand periods means delivering more than just a room. Guests are looking for convenience, comfort, and a touch of excitement that matches the energy of the event. This could include special packages tailored to concertgoers, exclusive amenities like welcome gifts or themed cocktails, and seamless services such as express check-ins. Elevating the guest experience ensures that, even amidst a price surge, visitors feel they are receiving exceptional value,” he said.
“Moreover, the benefits extend beyond hotel doors. Successful management of event-driven tourism supports the broader local economy, boosting revenue for nearby businesses like eateries and shops. By making the guest experience a priority, the hospitality sector can transform Coldplay’s tour into a catalyst for sustained economic growth, ensuring that higher prices translate to enhanced value and lasting impressions for visitors.”
