A recent survey of Singapore travellers reveals that taking a first holiday together ranks as the most exciting relationship milestone, surpassing even a couple’s first kiss or holding hands. According to the poll conducted by travel metasearch platform Skyscanner in July, 47 percent of respondents identified a first trip with a partner as their preferred moment in a relationship, compared with 27 percent for a first kiss and 21 percent for holding hands.
The survey included 1,000 Singaporeans, with 41 percent identifying as single, 39 percent married, 18 percent in a relationship, and 3 percent in other categories. In parallel, a separate survey conducted by dating application Coffee Meets Bagel (CMB) among 380 Singaporean users found that while 90 percent of respondents do not view traveling with a potential partner as definitive proof of a lasting relationship, they consider it an important way to assess compatibility.
Amanda Chong, CMB’s dating trends and insights lead, explained that traveling together introduces practical challenges and shared decision-making moments that extend beyond initial chemistry. “Travel often reveals how two people communicate, compromise and support each other through planning itineraries, budgeting, and handling unexpected events such as delays,” she said.
A highlight from the surveys includes testimony from married couple Natasha Conceicao, 29, and Erwin Chong, 32, content creators who met on a dating app in 2019. After matching, they went on their first trip to Bangkok within four months. Chong noted that traveling revealed unique aspects of their personalities, while Conceicao described the experience as offering “a snapshot of the next 50 years together.”
Interest in travel appears to influence the dating landscape significantly. Approximately 24 percent of CMB users in Singapore list travel or trips among their eight selectable interests, which include categories such as food, sports, and music. The survey also found that 56 percent of users are more likely to initiate conversations with profiles that share travel experiences. According to Chong, travel-themed profiles often signal desirable traits for long-term partnerships, including curiosity, openness to new experiences, adaptability, and a broad worldview.
The data further suggests a seasonal aspect to dating preferences. Cyndi Hui, a travel expert at Skyscanner, said nearly half (47 percent) of Singapore travellers are more open to dating or starting new relationships during the latter half of the year, coinciding with festive periods and year-end holidays. She suggested this trend might reflect practical considerations related to work clarity, available leave, and the desire to share celebrations such as Christmas, New Year, Chinese New Year, and Valentine’s Day with a partner.
Popular destinations for couples’ initial trips tend to be in Asia, with Tokyo leading at 39 percent, followed by Seoul at 26 percent, Taipei at 24 percent, and Bangkok at 19 percent. These cities offer accessible options for Singaporeans seeking to combine travel with romantic exploration.