An overview of what’s trending on google maps in 2021

An overview of what’s trending on google maps in 2021

Google Maps has always been a go-to app for travelers and locals alike, and it’s now sharing insights on trending searches that can be of great help for local marketers. In January 2021, Google Maps search data showed that people are doing a lot of the same things they do every January but with a different approach to it this year. Let’s take a deeper look into January 2021 Google Maps search trends and find out what’s new.

The Shift to Local Travel

Compared to previous years, searches for countries outside one’s hometown were low this January. In January 2020, Maps searches for international destinations increased by 65% over December 2019. Whereas, searches for local bed and breakfasts have increased by 20% in January 2021 as compared to late 2020. Google also noted that ski resorts are trending “in a big way” on Maps. As skiing is a socially distant activity, more people are focusing on it; as a result, searches for ski resorts were more than twice as high as they were last year.

New Year’s Resolution

Search trends in January have always represented people’s New Year’s resolution plans like drinking less, eating better, and exercising more. This year, it seems very few people are taking the “Dry January” challenge, as searches for wine shops and liquor stores dropped by 11% and 6% respectively as compared to December. However, eating healthy remains a priority this year too, as data shows searches for “healthy” options increased by 46% in January as compared to December.

A Sweet Tooth and Fast Food Cravings

It also shows that people’s appetite for sweets is up this year, as searches for ice cream shops are up by 10% as compared to December. Unlike every year, searches for fast-food restaurants in January 2021 haven’t decreased. Contrary to January 2020, this year’s searches for fast food dropped only by 1.5% from December to January.

Exercise and Workouts

Searches related to workouts and exercise remained high even this year, witnessing an increase of 25% from December to January. However, according to Google, searches for hiking areas have gone down this year. Data shows only a 16% increase as compared to last year’s 55% increase.

Conclusion

Google Maps search data for January 2021 offers a look into what people are doing when they leave home during a time when travel is discouraged. The data shows us that people are doing a lot of the same things they do every January but with a different approach to it this year. The shift to local travel and the focus on skiing and healthy eating are some of the notable trends that have emerged this year.

FAQs

Why are ski resorts trending on Google Maps in 2021?
As skiing is a socially distant activity, more people are focusing on it, leading to an increase in searches for ski resorts.

Are people taking the “Dry January” challenge this year?
No, it seems very few people are taking the “Dry January” challenge, as searches for wine shops and liquor stores dropped by 11% and 6% respectively as compared to December.

What kind of restaurants are people searching for in January 2021?
Unlike every year, searches for fast-food restaurants in January 2021 haven’t decreased. This year’s searches for fast food dropped only by 1.5% from December to January.

Is there a change in people’s workout routine in January 2021?
Searches related to workouts and exercise remained high even this year, witnessing an increase of 25% from December to January.

Are people still interested in eating healthy in January 2021?
Yes, eating healthy remains a priority this year too, as data shows searches for “healthy” options increased by 46% in January as compared to December.

What is the impact of COVID-19 on Google Maps search trends in 2021?
The impact of COVID-19 is evident in the shift towards local travel and socially distant activities such as skiing, as people try to avoid crowded places.

How can local marketers benefit from Google Maps search data?
Local marketers can use Google Maps search data to understand the changing behavior of people and tailor their marketing strategies accordingly.

What other insights can we expect from Google Maps search data in the future?
We can expect more insights on the changing travel patterns, dining preferences, and recreational activities of people as they adapt to the new normal.

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